Bishop Francis Duffy of Ardagh & Clonmacnois and Bishop Kevin Doran of Elphin, have issued a joint statement on providing shelter for refugees.
Their statement comes after two recent fires at The Shannon Key West Hotel that caused structural damage and have upset parishioners in Rooskey. The fires are said to be a response to the proposed use of the hotel to house refugees.
The bishops condemned the fires, saying,”Militant opposition, expressed in the destruction of property, is simply not consistent with the Gospel.
“Every civilised society is bound under international law to provide shelter for refugees. Jesus teaches us that we will be judged, among other things, on how we respond to the needs of those who are without shelter.”
The bishops continued, “Refugees need their own personal and family space. They also need to be supported in becoming part of the wider community in which they live.”
In conclusion, Bishops Duffy and Doran said: “We join with the clergy and parishioners on both sides of the river in calling on all concerned, including the civil authorities, to engage in the kind of dialogue and consultative planning that will allow the best possible outcome, both for refugees and for the local community.”
For full statement click here.
ENDS
