Most of Ukrainian refugees in 'Pollard came from Mariupol

There are some harrowing stories behind the arrival in Castlepollard at the weekend of sixty Ukranian nationals, mainly from Mariupol.

"Some of them, I believe, had very difficult journeys," Cllr Frank McDermott told The Westmeath Examiner this week.

The new arrivals are being accommodated at the Maple Court complex, on the Collinstown Road, which previously operated as a nursing home.

Over the course of last week, the complex was being freshened up in preparation for the arrival of the refugees. It is understood that a group of 43 arrived first, and a further 17 arrived on Monday.

The group includes a large number of teenagers, and it is understood that none of those who have arrived are under the age of 12.

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.

Cllr McDermott said there was a most positive reaction locally to the news of the arrival of the new residents: "I received a number of phone calls from people offering support and asking if there is anything they can do," he stated.

“We're delighted to welcome them and delighted to see David Smith & Co looking after them,” he said.

The complex is located within walking distance of 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.