'Disturbing and sad': Catholic and Church of Ireland bishops respond to Roscrea protests

Two bishops who govern the dioceses covering Roscrea have issued a joint statement in response to the ongoing protests outside a hotel accommodating asylum seekers in the town.

The Catholic Bishop of Killaloe, Fintan Monahan and the Church of Ireland Bishop of Killaloe, Limerick and Tuam, Michael Burrows, said they have found it "disturbing and sad to see some of the strong protests against the arrival of people seeking emergency accommodation in Roscrea, and also other venues and locations of the country."

"Many of our ancestors were at one time economic migrants, and our children today continue to travel to gain work and life experience.  We Irish, more than most, know what it is like to be a stranger in a foreign land," they continued.

They have appealed for calm and "for a peaceful approach to the issues involved".

"Our joint appeal is for us all to keep on mind the bigger picture and the emergency situation that presents itself," the statement from their Excellencies read.

"Many of the people coming to our shores are coming from very distressful situations and are in dire need of refuge and shelter.  They deserve whatever level of help can possibly be offered and provided, even if it involves some sacrifice or inconvenience, going the extra mile, so to speak."

The statement praised the "great tradition of hospitality, welcome and friendship" of the people of Roscrea, and welcomed the announcement of the government of "extra provision for local areas in relation to health, education and policing". 

"It is our strong hope also that these developments will be accompanied with an increased level of communication and consultation of local communities involved or affected should any new projects arise."

"As we enter this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity from January 18 to January 25, we pray that all who follow the way of Jesus Christ would pray for peace and an end to war and conflict in the many troubled spots of the world," the statement concluded.