Up to 60 Ukranians to move to Castlepollard

A group of between fifty and sixty Ukranian nationals is to move to Castlepollard by this weekend.

The new arrivals are to be accommodated at the Maple Court complex, which previously operated as a nursing home.

It is understood that Maple Court has been acquired by a Galway-based couple, and that local caterer David Smith has been contracted to provide food for the Ukranians who are among the thousands who have arrived in Ireland since the outbreak of the Russia Ukraine War on February 24.

The news has been warmly welcomed by Cllr Frank McDermott: “I am absolutely delighted: it is brilliant news,” he said.

“We're delighted to welcome them and delighted to see David Smith & Co looking after them,” he said, adding that the community would be fully supportive of the development.

The complex is located only around 200m from the town centre on the Collinstown Road.

Previously operated by Mowlam Healthcare, the complex was purpose-built and intended to accommodate 21 residents but it is likely that some of the Ukranians will be in family groups.

Mowlam closed the facility in August 2021 citing “the evolving enhanced environmental regulations and the learnings from the current pandemic” which meant, the firm said, that the home would not be sustainable in the longer term.