Leisure Centre to house Ukrainian refugees

The Council made the announcement this lunchtime.

The Leisure Centre in Cavan town is to be converted into an emergency facility to house Ukrainian refugees.

In a statement, Cavan County Council, which operates the venue, said it had received an "urgent request" from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

Space for 43 refugees is to be provided at the Drumalee facility.

"The emergency bed facility is being activated immediately, with occupants for the temporary beds potentially arriving from this weekend onwards.", the statement says.

The centre's sports hall will be closed to house the refugees, meaning it now cannot be used for the usual scheduled activities, which the Council admits will cause inconvenience. The swimming pool and gym will remain open to the public.

"The swimming pool, gym, and outdoor facilities including Astro-turf pitch and bowls green are unaffected and will remain open to the public, however, Cavan County Council acknowledges that the requisition of part of this facility will cause inconvenience to some users of the leisure centre and thanks the local community for their patience and understanding as every effort is made to assist those fleeing conflict during this humanitarian crisis."

As part of its humanitarian response to welcome people fleeing the war in Ukraine and seeking protection in Ireland as part of the EU response, the Government is providing accommodation through the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS). Ukrainian arrivals seeking accommodation should continue to be directed to IPAS by email at ipasinbox@equality.gov.ie.