Ukrainian refugees to be housed in Croke Park
Croke Park is best known for hosting showpiece events in the GAA calendar
- Published
Croke Parke stadium in Dublin is being used as temporary accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.
Areas have been transformed to house up to 140 people fleeing the war.
The Irish government expressed its gratitude to the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), which owns the stadium, for making it available.
The site will be used as a shelter until 18 January, while the state attempts to secure alternative accommodation for the refugees.
However, the Department of Integration told BBC News NI it was not yet possible to confirm where they would move to after 18 January.
The Republic of Ireland is currently experiencing a housing shortage and the total number of refugees seeking shelter is 10 times higher than this time last year.
The Aviva Stadium, Dublin Airport and ex-military camps have all been used to house refugees who have arrived in Ireland over the past 12 months.
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Croke Park, which has a capacity of more than 80,000, is best known for hosting showpiece events in the GAA calendar, such as All-Ireland finals, as well as concerts and other events.
No images of its temporary housing have been provided, but a government statement said: "Full catering, 24/7 security and other facilities will be provided to those staying in Croke Park."
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As of 5 January, the Republic of Ireland is accommodating over 73,490 refugees, compared to 7,250 at the same time in January 2022.
According to government figures, this year's overall figure consists of 54,390 Ukrainians who have sought state accommodation and more than 19,100 International Protection applicants.
The Irish Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has asked Ukrainians to not travel to travel to the country or to make plans in the coming weeks.
"This is because of a severe lack of state accommodation," it said.