'Grave reservations' in Laois over putting Ukrainian refugees in Electric Picnic tents

The Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council who represents for Stradbally has voiced concerns over housing Ukrainian war refugees in Electric Picnic tents when they are moved to Laois.

Cllr Paschal McEvoy has been given some details on how the refugee camp will operate.

He said he had received recent documentation that said an extensive range of facilities would be located on-site on the grounds of Cosby Hall. He said education facilities would not be required. Cllr McEvoy added that the site would be secured.

While he did not object to the plan, he questioned the suitability of putting Ukrainians in tents.

"I would have the gravest reservations about putting people into tents in Stradbally," said Cllr McEvoy who represents the Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District.

While he accepted the commitment of a six-week limit on the use of the site, he was concerned about the weather conditions going into October.

Cllr McEvoy said he looked forward to meeting in Laois County Council on Monday, September 4.

The Government has previously used military-grade tents at the Gormanston army camp in Co Meath and other locations to house refugees temporarily as more permanent accommodation was sought.

It is not clear what type of tents the Ukrainians will move into. The Electric Picnic says its Silver Campsite offers a comfortable stay in one of the Canvas Bell Tents. It says this premium campsite will offer hot showers and toilets. 

Festival Republic describes its Silk Road as "easily one of the poshest addresses to camp at EP. It says the Silk Road Tents offers a range of "beautiful canvas boutique camping tents" within the Harvest Moon campsite.

They range from bell tents, tipis or yurts which are "more elegantly adorned". The area has 24hr security, free phone charging facilities luxury loos and showers.

It is understood that 750 Ukrainians will be moved to the tents in the camp on a phased basis from Wednesday, September 6 after the Festival finishes in Laois. It is understood that they moved to Ireland during the summer and have been living in student accommodation since.