Stradbally is set to become home to 750 Ukrainian refugees following the conclusion of this year’s Electric Picnic.
LaoisToday understands that a deal has been struck to house these people in temporary accommodation on the lands of Stradbally Hall – owned by the Cosby family.
It is believed that the Ukrainians will stay in Stradbally for a maximum of six weeks and those eligible to go to school will not do so.
Where they will go after that is unclear but it has been mooted that some of the modular housing currently around the country under construction will come on stream by then.
The refugees are already in Ireland and are currently being housed in student accommodation across the country.
However, with Third Level students set to return to college next week, these people have been left with nowhere to live.
It is understood that the Ukrainians will live in tented accommodation in Stradbally.
This is where the workers who are covering the Electric Picnic event are currently staying.
The resettlement of Ukrainian refugees is the responsibility of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
LaoisToday has made contact with the department and sought comment on the matter.
Laois County Council has a Ukrainian Community Response Forum, consisting of statutory and voluntary groups/agencies operating across County Laois, who meet on a regular basis.
LaoisToday has also contacted Laois County Council for comment.
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