Asylum seekers’ bus entry to Columb Barracks obstructed by protesters

A bus carrying International Protection (IP) applicants was prevented from entering Columb Barracks in Co Westmeath on 18 May due to protestors blocking the gates for more than two hours. The barracks, which has hosted up to 30 community groups since 2012, is now to be used by a mix of Ukrainian and international refugees under a limited 12-month programme. The Department of Integration has condemned the protest and praised the welcome extended to refugees in Ireland over the past year. The Department has yet to announce whether it will attempt to take the bus of IP applicants back to Columb Barracks or an alternative location.