Kilkenny Council Unanimously Demands Withdrawal of IPAS Exemptions

UPDATE: Kilkenny County Council has just passed a pivotal motion demanding the immediate withdrawal of planning exemptions for International Protection Applicants (IPAS) accommodation. The motion, introduced by Independent Councillor Maurice Shortall on October 23, 2023, received unanimous support from council members during a plenary meeting, signaling a significant shift in local governance.

Councillor Shortall urged the council to write to Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne, calling for the withdrawal of all planning exemptions that currently allow properties accommodating IPAS to bypass normal planning procedures. The motion aims to ensure that all properties undergo the standard planning process, reinforcing community trust and transparency.

Shortall stated, “This will ensure that all properties go through the normal planning process,” emphasizing the community’s right to be heard. He added that the proposal is “not targeted at immigrants,” but rather seeks a fair and balanced system for all constituents.

The motion also requested that the Community Engagement Team actively communicate with local communities prior to signing contracts for IPAS accommodation, ensuring full engagement and transparency in the process.

Councillor Eugene McGuinness, who seconded the motion, criticized existing measures, saying, “All these measures have done is benefitted the bottom feeders of the business world.” Support came from other council members, including Cllr Michael Doyle of Fine Gael and Cllr Joe Malone of Fianna Fáil, indicating a rare consensus on this pressing issue.

This unanimous decision comes in response to concerns over temporary statutory exemptions introduced by the government, which currently allow developers to bypass public consultations and the county development plan. These exemptions have faced criticism for sidelining community input, leading to a growing frustration among residents.

Supporters of the motion argue that reinstating the full planning process is essential for restoring trust and ensuring that local voices are heard before any agreements are finalized. The motion’s passage underscores a growing demand for accountability and community involvement in local governance.

As this story develops, all eyes will be on the government’s response to Kilkenny County Council’s urgent request. The implications of this motion could significantly impact the future of IPAS accommodation in the region, making it crucial for residents and stakeholders to remain informed and engaged.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as local communities rally for a system that prioritizes transparency and public engagement.