Since its shock closure was announced in March there has been widespread speculation about what may become of Glencarn Hotel in Castleblayney.
Questions were raised at the time of the announcement as it came with the cancellation of a number of events and weddings that were scheduled to be held within the next number of months.
At the time, reasons for the cancellations and closure had not publicised by the venue and the ambiguity prompted online speculation.
Related: Veil of silence as Castleblayney hotel cancels Armagh woman’s wedding weeks out from big day
Now, many Castleblayney residents are concerned about the future use of the hotel and want answers.
In response a “peaceful protest” had been organised by residents outside the venue this Tuesday (May 20) at 7pm – however it has since been cancelled with more information to follow.
Popular Facebook page ‘Castleblayney News M.B’ said: “About six weeks ago, it was said the Glencarn would never be used as IPAS centre, now it [has] been said its sold and full already, so this is why the protest is happening tomorrow.
“The people of Castleblayney and Co Monaghan want the questions answered about the hotel, no one has given a straight answer, everyone is speculating.”
According to the Facebook page members of the public have been sending in questions to be put to local councillors and the hotel’s owners including: “If it’s true that the Glencarn has now been turned into an IPAS Centre, who’s to say the Hope Castle won’t be next?
“What about our €32 million shopping centre lying idle? Will it also be next?
“What are the ‘elected’ councillors saying?
“Who owns this hotel now?
“What will a protest achieve? Peaceful or not? Assuming the hotel is already occupied.”
On March 13, Northern Sound reported that they had received confirmation that Glencarn Hotel would not be used as asylum accommodation and that Matt Carthy TD has also expressed an intention, along with Cllr Paul Gibbons, to engage with all the stakeholders of the hotel.
Northern Sound also obtained the following statement from the Community Engagement Team: “The Community Engagement Team can confirm that the International Protection Accommodation Service has received no offer of accommodation in respect of the Glencarn Hotel, Monaghan Rd, Drumillard Little, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan, A75 AP922 and is not examining this property for use.
“As with all properties, in the event an offer is made in the future in respect of this site it may be assessed for use, however no offer or enquiry has been received on behalf of the owner at this time.”
