Clare community devastated by Ukrainian relocation notice

The community of the Loop Head Peninsula in Co Clare, has said it is “devastated” to learn that the Ukrainian community in the area has been issued with a relocation notice.

They said they were given 48 hours’ notice of the plan.

Community representatives questioned why the people of Loop Head are “being punished”, after they “excelled” in fostering inclusivity and integration.

In a statement, the Loop Head community said that 18 months ago people from Ukraine, ranging in age from pensioners to young school children, had arrived to “a rapturous welcome” on the peninsula.

It said the community held welcome evenings, heritage nights and multicultural events.

“Despite the traumatic situation that led to their arrival, having fled a war-torn country before finally settling here, these families have now found peace and stability in a community that has fully embraced them,” the representatives said.

The group has expressed fear that the move will have an affect on the wellbeing of their Ukrainian neighbours.

A public meeting is due to be held in the area tomorrow night.

The community has called on Minister for Integration Roderic O’Gorman, Minister of State Joe O’ Brien, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys, Minister for Education Norma Foley, all members of the Oireachtas representing Co Clare and local representatives to meet them.

Community spokesperson Mags Cotter called on the Government to demonstrate some humanity and do an immediate u-turn on “this abhorrent and inhumane decision”.

She said if the relocation is carried out, it will “only serve to further traumatise these individuals and will also have a devastating impact on the rural development potential of Loop Head”.