The local group says some people have a skewed attitude towards people in direct provision.
The Justice Minister says nobody is forced into direct provision.
Laois TD Charlie Flanagan's department has been criticised for it's handling of plans for a direct provision centre in Oughterard in Galway.
The developer walked away from the plans to re-purpose a hotel in the town yesterday, following weeks of protests by residents.
Minister Flanagan says entering the system is voluntary:
He admits direct provision isn't perfect, but people can leave whenever they want:
Meanwhile,
The language used by some people when talking about refugees in Ireland is a cause of concern.
Karen McHugh, joint chair of the Laois Integration Network, feels we need an attitude change when it comes to damaging stereotypes and misinformation on asylum seekers.
Ms. McHugh says certain language used in conversation reinforces an unfair, negative image of migrants:
Man Dies In Westmeath After Taking Ill Following Car Crash
Reversal On Road Safety Authority "A Damaging U-Turn" - IRHA
Midlands Region Joins UNESCO Learning Network
€5.5m Awarded To Regenerative Projects Across Midlands
Community Support For Midlands Pharmacy Owner After Arson Attack
Westmeath Psychotherapist Advises Caution On Naughty Or Nice List
Progress On Funding Application For Offaly Domestic Violence Refuge
Midlands Community Shocked After Arson Attack
Road Deaths Surge As Campaigner Says Ireland Is Failing To Act
Farmers Protest Mercosur Deal As Signing Is Delayed
Teen Arrested In Westmeath Over €62k Cocaine Seizure
Uisce Eireann Submits Planning Permission For Midlands Water Supply Project
GOAL Mile Returns To The Midlands For 2025
High Court Warns Crackdown on Court Disruptions
New Programme For Laois And Offaly TY Students In Digital Arts
Man Jailed Over Westmeath Defilement Case
Coillte Opens Applications for 2026 Forestry Scholarship
European Parliament Backs Initiative On Safe Abortion Access
Man Arrested In Laois On Outstanding Warrant Following Public Tip-Off
Offaly Choir Bringing Festive Cheer To Church This Weekend