Courts / Westmeath / Report
Government must act to save 'vulnerable' asylum seekers from homelessness, judge warns
Summary
A High Court judge has deferred judgment on the State's application to overturn a December order quashing a statutory instrument used to fast-track emergency accommodation development at Lissywollen in Athlone, County Westmeath. Ms Justice Emily Farrell said she would await draft legislation from the Oireachtas aimed at remedying a procedural breach concerning environmental assessments. The judge acknowledged the vulnerability of residents at the facility and stated the Minister has an obligation to provide alternative accommodation or demonstrate efforts to do so. She imposed restrictions on the centre, permitting only essential maintenance and prohibiting new admissions beyond those accommodated in February. The State submitted that closure risks homelessness among asylum seekers currently residing there. The judicial review was brought by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan, who successfully argued the expedited development process was unlawful. The matter was adjourned to 21 July, with the judge directing that resident numbers be substantially reduced by that date.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Government must act to save 'vulnerable' asylum seekers from homelessness, judge warns. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- July 21 Adjournment
- 2025-06-25 Publication
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