Newtown Together Launched

Newtownmountkennedy APR24

ress release from Newtown Together, issued on Saturday, May 25th 2024…

Following a turbulent month for the people of Newtownmountkennedy, concerned residents and supporters have established Newtown Together aimed at rehabilitating the town.

The focus of this group is the introduction of constructive dialogue to address and alleviate the fears of residents – old and new – and to work on positive integration for the seekers of asylum who have been placed in River Lodge (formerly Trudder House).

Newtown Together also calls on the government to listen to the needs of a growing community. The people of Newtownmountkennedy are hurt, divided, and scared.

What was once a village, has expanded into a town in recent years and despite calls for adequate amenities, this has not transpired. It is imperative that now, more than ever, the needs of Newtownmountkennedy are not neglected by the Irish government.

Unfortunately, the tipping point for this community occurred last month with the views of members of the community about the IPAS centre not being listened to.

Poor communication meant the situation escalated into a tense one that had divided the community.

Anger and frustration have at times tipped into generalisation, stereotyping and ultimately racial profiling which has attracted the attention of national and international far-right activists with a sinister agenda.

While integration is an inevitable and natural progression, the concerns of the community of Newtownmountkennedy around the lack of support and services mustn’t be ignored.

Areas that are already under pressure, and will continue to come under strain unless addressed, include the healthcare services, a lack of primary school spaces, a lack of a secondary school, inadequate community facilities and services for the residents of Newtownmountkennedy and newcomers.

While asylum seekers deserve safety as a basic human right, they are now caught in the middle of the division that has been created, due to inadequate Government policies.

It is important that the community can listen to each other respectfully. It is also important that our elected representatives, nationally and locally, help the community find that common ground by listening to the calls to find solutions and necessary positive actions representing the wishes of everyone in this friendly, tight-knit and diverse community.

We know that, in welcoming others, we will build a kind, tolerant and welcoming environment.

However, we cannot do this alone.

You can find out more about Newtown Together on Facebook here, or get in touch on email here.