Fr Paddy Byrne
Photo: Agnes Sasiada 
A Co. Laois-based priest who has been an outspoken supporter of asylum seekers has said that the coronavirus pandemic is having a severe effect on those living in direct provision.
Fr Paddy Byrne, parish priest of Abbeyleix, told The Irish Catholic that he fears the current crisis is “severely challenging” for “vulnerable” families living in accommodation while awaiting a decision on whether their application for asylum will be granted.
Unwell
“They are living in very close proximity,” he explained, “often in one room, and if one family member becomes unwell because of the coronavirus, how can self-isolation and social distancing take place?
“This is a worrying time because my fear is that the vulnerable and refugees will be locked out.
“The present situation is not something new for these people, who have experienced lockdown and confinement for too long,” Fr Byrne said.
