There should be dual use of Drogheda’s D Hotel by asylum seekers and Ukrainians, Leo Varadkar. 

Last week, the 13-bed, four star hotel overlooking the River Boyne announced it had signed a contract with the Department of Integration to host 500 international protection applicants for the next two years. 

Local councillors said they were hugely concerned about the impact this would have on tourists’ ability to book accommodation in the town. 

Speaking in the Dáil this afternoon, the Taoiseach told TDs he hoped a compromise could be reached. 

“I do understand where the people of Drogheda are coming from in their concerns about this,” he said. 

“We want, if at all possible, to use a dual use option for The D Hotel. 

“[It’s been] done in my constituency, done in Dundalk, it can be done; we think that’s the best solution.

“We’re not sure the operator will fully cooperate and there may be issues around child protection and so on. 

“I’m sure those things can be sorted out and that would be the best outcome for Drogheda.” 

The owners of the D Hotel have said they will use the funds from the Government contract to pay for the renovation of the hotel.

Main image: Leo Varadkar speaking in the Dáil.