THE International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) has received no application or offer of accommodation in respect of The Blue Goat in Ramelton, it has been confirmed.
A spokesperson for the Department of Justice said the property is not being examined for use.
This comes amid recent speculation surrounding the future of the premises.
Des Gallen, owner of the artisan food store located on the Quays, also addressed the issue on social media, confirming that no application has been made to the department.
However, last Thursday, a notice from The Blue Goat seeking planning permission from Donegal County Council to change its use to a Designated Accommodation Centre (DAC) for applicants seeking international protection was published in the Donegal News.
DACs are state-managed facilities that provide temporary accommodation and support services while applications for international protection are being processed.
The building, a restored property known locally as the Genealogy Centre, currently houses a popular artisan food and craft store, along with two holiday rental apartments.
Des Gallen was contacted by the Donegal News but declined to comment at this time.
Meanwhile, Deputy Padraig MacLochlainn said he had been contacted by constituents over the weekend regarding speculation about plans for an IPAS centre in Ramelton.
He said he sought clarification from the Department of Justice and received the following response:
“The Community Engagement Team can confirm that the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) has received no offer of accommodation in respect of The Blue Goat Ramelton: Artisan Food Store, The Quays, Ramelton, Co. Donegal F92 D9KE, and the Department is not examining the property for use.
“We can further confirm that the Department is not considering any property offer in Donegal at the moment.”