PICTURES: 'Ireland is full' say Roscrea protesters as hundreds rally over weekend

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PROTESTERS marched their way through Roscrea, last Saturday to protest the housing of international protection applicants in the sole hotel in the Tipperary town.

Captured photos and videos depict hundreds of protesters marching through the town as they articulate their objection to the closure of Racket Hall Hotel.

The protest route commenced from the hotel on the Old Dublin Road, culminating in speakers addressing the assembly on Castle Street. Leading the procession were individuals carrying a banner with the slogan 'Ireland is full', among others, including: 'We want action not promises' and 'It could be your town next'.

The crowd were then addressed by a number of speakers, including Independent Tipperary TDs Mattie McGrath and Michael Lowry.

James Kirwin, a vocal protester, stated on RTÉ Radio 1 last Monday that their issue is not with the asylum seekers, but rather with the government. "The hotel is a huge part of this town, it's the only hotel we have left," he stated.

"This is an action against the government of the Republic of Ireland," he added. "Roscrea is now holding 85% of asylum seekers in Tipperary, [and] the knock-on effect is just huge".

Craig Phelan, another protester, spoke of their determination to continue the protest, saying: "Our protest will continue until someone from that government comes to speak to us. The people of Roscrea won't allow it to continue.

"We have done loads, more than our share; it has to be capped. Let the people already here integrate into the town properly."

Regarding the housing of asylum seekers, Minister O'Gorman explained on RTÉ Radio 1, that those to be housed in Racket Hall Hotel will be families and female applicants. 

He acknowledged the distress experienced by asylum seekers, particularly children witnessing scuffles between protesters and gardaí, especially after the arrest on one protester.