It's understood up to 67 asylum seekers will be moving into the former Lismore House Hotel today.
Last Monday, WLR first reported that the hotel was set to become a direct provision centre.
Yesterday a demonstration was held in the town by residents and business people. They were concerned that the hotel would not be open to the public, as had previously been the plan.
Speaking on Deise Today this morning, Waterford Green Party TD, Marc Ó Cathasaigh says the former hotel cannot be allowed to stay empty while people are made homeless.
He says: "I know there is a wonderful community in Lismore. 67 vulnerable people are going to start arriving in Lismore from today. I understand people have genuine concerns around services and all of that."
Continuing, he said: " 67 women and children, who are maybe arriving in a traumatised state, who have come from circumstances which we can hardly even imagine... I really hope the community is able to step up and welcome those people."
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