Claims of new arrivals at Ashbourne IPAS centre dismissed as ‘untrue’
Claims that over 50 men had arrived at the Ashbourne Court Hotel — currently used as an accommodation centre for International Protection applicants — have been described as “untrue”.
A video shared on social media over the weekend appeared to show a group of individuals disembarking from a bus outside the hotel, sparking speculation and concern about an influx of new residents.
However, Meath Partnership has since clarified the footage on social media, stating: “We’re aware of video footage circulating online showing individuals disembarking from the Meath Partnership bus.”
“We’d like to clarify that the bus was used to facilitate transport to and from a football tournament that took place earlier that day. This outing formed part of a community sporting activity aimed at promoting inclusion and social connection.”
“The Meath Partnership bus is used to support a wide range of community services and events across Meath, including those organised with and by our communities and partners. For clarity, Meath Partnership has no role in bringing new residents to accommodation centres.”
Independent TD Gillian Toole also addressed the matter, confirming that those seen in the video were existing residents of the centre and their families.
“Regarding the video which was circulated over the weekend claiming that over 50 additional men had arrived at the Ashbourne Court Hotel - this is untrue,” the Meath East TD said.
“15 men from the existing residents, with their families, were transported to Dundalk for a football match and were dropped back — and this is the footage that was shared.”
“These are some of the men who have been volunteering with Ashbourne Tidy Towns.”
She added: “The misinformation spread on Saturday doesn’t help communities in any way, shape or form. It is actually unfair.”
Ashbourne councillor Helen Meyer echoed the concerns, saying the video “misrepresented the situation and caused unnecessary concern and anxiety for so many in the community.”