This article is from page 14 of the 2006-10-10 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 14 JPG
CAMPAIGNERS have moved to allay fears of local residents over a proposed homeless hostel in the Ennis area.
Local residents have expressed concern over the proposal, but those in favour have pointed to the excellent track record of the St Vincent de Paul in running such facilities.
The St Vincent de Paul have applied to Clare County Council for the construction of a transitional housing facility for homeless persons at the former site of the Laurel Lodge B&B on the Clare Road. While saying it would be inappropriate to comment on a matter that was still the subject of a planning application, Councillor Joe Arkins (FG) Chairperson of Clare County Council’s Homeless Persons Forum stressed that the St Vincent de Paul had proven experience in running such facilities around the country.
“Earlier this year, members of Ennis Town Council and Clare County Council visited St Patrick’s Hostel, Killree Lodge, Limerick, and were very impressed by the policies and practices that are in place there. It is extremely well run and strives to be a good neighbour in the community”
He said that in view of the experience of the St Vincent de Paul, he was confident the hostel would have no adverse impact on the locality.
Cllr Arkins (FG) added that the type of hostel proposed was designed to find people permanent accommodation as quickly as possible.
“The proposed facility on the Clare Road is not a permanent home for anybody who does not have anywhere to live. It would be run with the view of securing accommodation through the local authority and the outreach system would continue to provide support when people left. The real success of the hostel would be gauged on its non-occupancy levels as opposed to its occupancy levels”.
Consumption of alcohol would not be permitted on or near the vicinity of the premises.
“It should be borne in mind that in many cases there is no link between homelessness and alcohol. People become homeless for many reasons, marriage break up, trauma, unemployment. One of the main reasons is the lack of quality individual accommodation at the lower end of the market”
Locals say they were not adequately consulted with when the project was mooted. They are worried about the potential impact on the community. They have submitted an objection to the proposal which is currently being considered.