The use of the site to house asylum seekers was at the heart of significant violent unrest between gardaí and protestors. There were a number of fires which broke out at the site, while protests outside the factory also took place. In a letter sent to local TDs and councillors, the Department of Justice said since 2023, a provider has been “developing a proposal to convert the site into an Ipas accommodation centre”. “The prolonged nature of this particular proposal’s progress through development and planning stages have been significant factors in the decision to discontinue the appraisal of this offer,” the letter reads. It adds all offers of international protection accommodation are examined according to a range of factors, including “the site and its potential, value for money to the State, planning matters and any works required to meet the required standards”. “Consideration is also given to the location and locality, access to services, resident welfare, health and wellbeing and the current level of need in the sector.”