Cork TDs slam 'sham' poll on permitting Ukrainian refugees to live in Watergrasshill

The campaign began following plans to convert a bar and restaurant in the town, The Fir Tree, into accommodation for Ukrainian refugees. File picture

Cork TDs have slammed a “sham” poll due to be held in Watergrasshill next week over whether or not Ukrainian refugees should be permitted to live in the town.

Elements of the far-right have been promoting the poll in the town north of Cork city, with posts on social media calling for local residents to back their proposals.

The campaign began following plans to convert a bar and restaurant in the town, The Fir Tree, into accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.

The pub itself was in operation since the early 2000s, but has been closed following a fire last July.

In the interim, its owner sought a change of use planning permission, to turn the existing ground floor into four apartments. It also sought to change the use of an existing hairdressers salon and stores to a public house. However, the entire application was subsequently withdrawn.

It emerged in early August that plans were afoot to accommodate Ukrainian refugees in the premises, following a letter of intent coming from the Department of Integration.

'Vote'

Anti-migrant figures have said they want to gauge local feeling on the issue through an organised 'vote'. 

The vote itself has been scheduled to take place on September 1, but no venue has been confirmed for it to take place. Printed sheets of paper, labelled as ballots, have also been distributed.

Solidarity TD Mick Barry described the poll as a 'total sham'.

The paper reads: “Do you consent to the Fir Tree Bar and Restaurant being used to accommodate refugees and/or asylum seekers”, with a check box for yes and no.

Solidarity TD Mick Barry described the poll as a “total sham” that was being organised by the “racist far-right”.

“Watergrasshill is a peaceful place and residents do not want the politics of hate and fear in the village,” Mr Barry said.

“More consultation, more information, more facilities and more resources — all these are needed. But there can be no veto and no place for racism and division.”

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Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, said the organisation of the poll was a clear sign that elements of the far right are trying to manipulate people in Watergrasshill and “drive a wedge” between people where there isn't one.

“The people I have been talking to have no issues at all with Ukrainian women and children coming in,” he said. “Their issue is the fact that they are losing a service in the centre of their village. There has been an astounding silence from government TDs on this issue.”

The Department of Integration confirmed that they received an offer of accommodation from the Fir Tree, adding that it is under consideration.

Anti-migrant protestors against Ukrainian’s in Watergrasshill have called for an information evening to take place in the town on Sunday. Meanwhile, counter protesters have organised a protest on the same day.