Courts / Westmeath / Report
Asylum seekers offered alternative accommodation as emergency legislation awaited
Summary
More than 70 asylum seekers at an accommodation centre in Athlone, County Westmeath, have been offered alternative housing while the government prepares emergency legislation to address accommodation pressures, the High Court heard. Of approximately 125 people remaining at the facility, offers have been extended to 70 residents, with responses expected within a week. The High Court action, taken by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan through judicial review, centres on the validity of a statutory instrument used to expedite construction at Lissywollen. The State has conceded the instrument was invalid and is developing remedial legislation. Ms Justice Emily Farrell adjourned proceedings to next week but cautioned against further deferrals, noting the government had sufficient opportunity to bring legislation before the Dáil. Counsel for Cllr Hogan argued that November dates for legislative submission had become untenable, with the minister's process alleged to be unlawful and irrational. The government cited significant systemic pressure in seeking to maintain the status quo pending legislation.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Asylum seekers offered alternative accommodation as emergency legislation awaited. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- 2025-07-21 Publication
Case subjects
Applicant
Outcome: Ms Justice Farrell adjourned the matter to next week but warned she could not keep deferring final orders when the government had "ample opportunity" to put legislation before the Dáil.
Places mentioned
- High Court
- The High Court
Topics
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