Micheál Martin made the comments as a legal injunction is sought by Athlone Municipal District to stop it.
The Tánaiste is defending the Department of Integration's methods of engagement on an accommodation centre for 1,000 asylum seekers planned for Westmeath.
Yesterday, Athlone Municipal District decided to seek a legal injunction to stop the development of temporary dwellings for asylum seekers in Lissywollen.
Local representatives claim the Department had not listened to their concerns and had rejected a proposal to make use of facilities already in place for a capacity of around 450 International Protection Applicants.
Minister Micheál Martin says the purpose of State-led asylum seeker accommodation is to preserve tourism and facilities in local towns:
New Amendment Strengthens Protections For Buying Financial Services Online
Midlands Business Man Honoured By US Congressman
Jozef Puska's Lawyers Suggest Potential Change In Murder Appeal Case
Offaly Duo Unite To Launch 'Storm Chasers Ireland'
Former Laois STEM Engagement Officer Hopeful Regional Programme Will Return
Westmeath Toastmasters Club Marks 30th Anniversary
Laois Nursing Home Makes Significant Progress On Compliance Issues
Two Men Charged Over Aggravated Burglary In Westmeath
Offaly Students Head To Switzerland For 2026 Hydrogen Grand Prix World Final
El Niño Conditions Strengthen Risk Of Global Extreme Weather Events
Gardai Arrest Two Men Over Aggravated Burglary In Westmeath
Westmeath Councillor Calls For Government Action On Drink Spiking Protocols
€22.5m In Rural Regeneration Funding Still Unspent Across Midlands
New Westmeath Oral Heritage Training Programme Launches
Midland Hospitals Owed Over €2.2 Million In Unpaid Patient Fees
Plans Submitted For Major Offaly Solar Farm
Nursing Homes Body Seeks Clear Action
Midlands Youth Call For €27m Budget Boost For Youth Services
Verdict Of Death By Misadventure Recorded At Inquest Of Offaly Prisoner
Offaly TDs Urged To Increase Youth Work Funding In Budget 2027