Population of county to increase by 50 per cent

THE population of South Dublin County is set to increase by 50 per cent, according to outgoing South Dublin County Council chief executive Daniel McLoughlin.

Speaking during his farewell at the recent monthly council meeting, Mr McLoughlin estimates there are currently about 300,000 people living across 100,000 homes in the county.

However, he urged members to be prepared for “150,000 people you are planning to welcome in, because that will happen so fast, so so fast”.

“It is running at about 20/25k every census period and that is likely to accelerate,” he said.

Growing pressures on accommodation for new arrivals to the country has seen the government set up a working group that allows the consideration of commercial properties and sites for development, refurbishment, purchase and the use of alternative modular buildings.

According to figures as of May 3, from the Department of Children, the State is taking in over 60 people every day.

This is attributed to 46 people daily categorised as Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) due to conflict in the Ukraine, and over 20 people a day under International Protection (IP) applications.

Many buildings are being utilised and repurposed for accommodation, including Dolcain House in Clondalkin, which recently reopened for close to 400 single male asylum seekers, and has seen protests outside by residents opposed to mass immigration.

Close to 200 males were moved out of Dolcain House earlier this year following concerns over fire and safety regulations, and the site was refurbished, now accommodating double that figure.

According to the Dept, showers, toilets, are provided in sufficient number to cater to full capacity at Dolcain House, which is the former head office of SIAC Construction.

Residents receive three meals per day which will be prepared off-site and delivered by the facilities management company. Each resident will have toiletries replenished weekly.

Laundry facilities will be provided. The facility will have high speed fibre Wi-Fi.

The property is owned by Randelswood Holdings Limited and has 24/7 security.

The Dept said most of the residents are new arrivals and will be eligible to work from six months after arrival in Ireland.