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:
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