A Government spokesperson said the hotel may be used as a dedicated location for people seeking International Protection in the future
The Wallis Arms is located on Main Street in Millstreet. Image: Google Maps
There are plans to accommodate people seeking international protection at The Wallis Arms Hotel in Millstreet in north Cork, a government spokesperson has said.
A spokesperson for the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth told Sunday World that the Department plans to accommodate International Protection Applicants at the Wallis Arms as Ukrainians staying there move on to alternative accommodation.
“We plan to use some vacancies arising at this location to accommodate people seeking international protection,” the spokesperson said.
The property, which is currently for sale, has a bar and restaurant. Image: Daft.ie
“In the future, the Department may be able to use this location as a dedicated location for people seeking International Protection, this is not currently agreed but a process is underway.”
The spokesperson said the Department will keep local representatives and media informed of any changes in arrangements at the site when they are confirmed, but it is not possible to do that while appraisal and contractual discussions are ongoing.
The Wallis Arms is currently accommodating Ukrainian refugees. Image: Daft.ie
They said the Department does not comment on occupancy figures for individual sites given the fluid and emergency nature of its requirement to provide shelter for those seeking international protection, and their right to anonymity.
The Wallis Arms, located on Main Street in the town, closed for business earlier this year.
The hotel closed for business earlier this year. Image: Daft.ie
The hotel was put up for sale on property website Daft.ie on June 17 for a price of €800,000. According to the advertisement, the premises has seven ensuite bedrooms, a bar and a restaurant.
The advert said a Government contract was currently in place for Ukrainian refugees.
On Tuesday, Dick Pomeroy & Co. Auctioneers & Valuers, who are selling agents for the property, told Sunday World that the hotel was still for sale.
The hotel has seven ensuite bedrooms. Image: Daft.ie
