The Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council says there was absolutely no consultation with the council about any direct provision centre.
Michael Walsh was asked by the Mayor of Waterford, John O'Leary, to make a brief statement on the matter at the beginning of yesterday's plenary council meeting.
However, no questions were allowed to be asked, as it was felt the Dungarvan/Lismore District meeting on Monday would be a more suitable setting for those.
It comes as a direct provision centre opened in the former Lismore House Hotel last week.
CEO Michael Walsh explained he knew nothing about the plans:
"Specifically, the questions that were relayed to me were relating to our knowledge around the Lismore Hotel.
"I confirmed it by email to councillors and I reaffirm it now - there was no consultation.
"I'm aware that there was public commentary or commentary in the public domain, and indeed on national television, that councils were consulted with in this context.
"I can absolutely assure you that was not the case. I did not know until the same time as you [the councillors] knew."
It comes as a Lismore resident says people in the west Waterford town are still "very disappointed" and feel "very let down" by the government.
The former Lismore House Hotel became a direct provision centre last week, just a week after locals found out through WLR that it was set to become one.
Much criticism has been aimed at the government and agencies involved for not consulting with residents of the town in advance, while disappointment has been expressed over the fact that the hotel will now not be reopening for tourist accommodation.
However, Bryan Buckley says the refugees who have arrived have been made to feel welcome.
"They have been welcomed here," he told Déise Today, "I've met a few of them myself.
"That was never going to be an issue. I've said this from the start.
"I think we welcomed around 40 or 50 Ukrainians into the town previously and I've no doubt we will welcome many more.
"That was never going to be an issue - it's just the simple fact about the amount of derelict buildings and the lack of consultation."
More refugees are expected to arrive at the hotel later this month and again in March.
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