Former bank at Mallow Main St set to house Ukrainian refugees

The Department of Integration is set to use what was once a bank premises on Mallow’s Main St to house Ukrainian refugees and asylum seekers.

According to a department circular, the former Ulster Bank building has the capacity to house up to 23 people, with the five-year contract starting later this month.

For the first two years of the contract, the building will be used specifically for the housing of Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection.

It is also understood that the accommodation will be self-catering and that a valid fire safety certificate has been provided.

Speaking to The Echo, Mallow-based Fianna Fáil county councillor Gearóid Murphy said communication with local people on the decision was crucial.

“There is relatively little I can say, as I had no role in the decision,” he said.

“What I will say, though, is that I shared the information I received as soon as I got it, because I think that communication with local communities is important.

“I will also say that Ireland has an obligation under international law to make a determination when a person applies for asylum.

“And until we process a person’s application, we also have an obligation to house anyone who is seeking asylum.

“I can only imagine what it must be like to have to leave your home and your homeland because of war or persecution.

“I believe it is very important that applications are processed efficiently and that the Department of Integration hires a lot more staff to ensure this.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Integration told

The Echo

: "The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth received an offer of accommodation for those fleeing the war in Ukraine at 116 Main Street, Mallow, Co.Cork, P51FT04.

"The property underwent refurbishment as part of the Emergency Refurbishment (Ukraine) Programme overseen by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This refurbishment work has now completed and from late December 2024 onwards 23 beds will be provided for people fleeing the war in Ukraine at the property.

"Due to a reduction in the number of people arriving from Ukraine, as well as an increase in those exiting State accommodation, the State is reducing its overall accommodation stock. 

"As a result, it is likely that those who are accommodated at 116 Main Street, Mallow, Co.Cork, P51FT04, will be re-accommodated from accommodation where a contract has ended and, where possible, people will be accommodated in the same general area.

"It is not possible to give more specific information at this time on likely occupation dates or a breakdown of the people moving in."