The first group of Kosovo refugees to be brought to Ireland will arrive on Monday next, May 10th, the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Ms Liz O'Donnell, announced last night.
About 150 refugees will touch down at Farranfore Airport, Co. Kerry and will be given shelter at Atlas House Hostel, Killarney and Drishane Castle, near Millstreet, Co Cork.
A further 150 refugees will arrive here on Thursday next and will be accommodated at the Army Barracks in Kildare, and at a hostel in Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow.
Preparations are also being finalised for the receipt of further refugees in accommodation in Waterford and Cork over the next few weeks.
The Southern Health Board will meet the Refugee Agency today to discuss preparations for the first arrivals.