Ukrainian refugees in Carlow are calling for an extension on their stay at a former restaurant.

150 families have been living in the former Toughers Restaurant outside Carlow for two years now.

The residents fled Ukraine following Russia's invasion in 2022.

In mid-December, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth announced that the Carlow accommodation centre will close due to concerns over fire safety.

This afternoon, Ukrainian residents are calling for an extension on their stay at a former restaurant.

The families were initially told they would have to move out before January 1st, however they have secured an extension until January 31st.

Alternative accommodation

Many of the residents work in Carlow Town and the children are enrolled in local schools.

Due to a shortage of accommodation centres in Carlow, they will now have to find alternative accommodation in other counties.

One resident Olha Chorna said some of the Ukrainian refugees are struggling to find accommodation.

"We are going to Carlow County Council - maybe they will help us," she said.

"We want to show how many people didn't manage to find their own accommodation in such a short period of time."

Over the weekend, the affected families organised a food festival to thank the people of Carlow for their support over the past two years.

Feature image shows a protest in solidarity with Ukraine outside Leinster House, 2022, Sam Boal, RollingNews.ie