Gardaí say there has been no increase in crime caused by international protection applicants

Comments come amid scourge of 'significant and consistent disinformation' 

Gardai have said that despite 'significant and consistent disinformation' in relation to international protection applicants, the force has not recorded any increase in crime or public order caused by the applicants. Picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

Gardai have said that despite "significant and consistent disinformation" in relation to international protection applicants, the force has not recorded any increase in crime or public order caused by the applicants.

The garda press office made the comments when it was asked about its investigation into damage caused to the front door of an all-male direct provision centre in Killarney which was reported to the force on New Year's Day.

The facility at Kingscourt Harmony Inn, a former guesthouse on the Muckross Road, opened at the end of November amid objections from locals, public representatives. It was to house up to 75 men.

The damage to the door was notified to gardaí by security personnel. The garda press office said enquiries into the incident are ongoing and no arrests have been made to date. It said anyone with information is asked to contact Killarney Station.

The press office also said: "An Garda Síochána continues to work and liaise with relevant national and local authorities to keep people attending IPAS centres safe and protect IPAS centres as required."

A spokesperson also also cautioned generally about speculation.

"An Garda Síochána is aware of significant and consistent volumes of speculation, misinformation, disinformation and falsehoods in circulation, particularly in relation to International Protection Applicants.

"Notwithstanding isolated local incidents, An Garda Síochána has not recorded any significant increase in criminal activity or public order issues directly caused by International Protection applicants, at any location, at this time."

A fire safety notice was served on the Harmony Inn building by the county fire service.

However the company Harmony Inn Ltd appealed against the notice. Last Tuesday Killarney District Court, where the appeal was listed, heard how there were "very serious and grave concerns" by fire officers and there was a risk to life. The court heard 67 men and three staff members reside in the building.

After negotiations with the council and fire service Harmony Inn Ltd agreed to ‘ the non-use’ of sections of the building immediately. Several fire safety works including fire doors and fire escape and fire resistant slabs are underway.

The matter is back before the court on Friday for mention or for hearing.