# They used to be a focal point for weddings, christenings and funerals – but communities right across Ireland are dealing with the loss of their one local hotel… and there’s ONE reason why the problem is likely to continue

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/they-used-to-be-a-focal-point-for-weddings-christenings-and-funerals-but-communities-right-across-ireland-are-dealing-with-the-loss-of-their-one-local-hotel-and-theres-one-reason-why-the-probl/
- Published: 2026-11-06T15:11:42+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T15:22:52+00:00
- Original publisher: Daily Mail (publisher lean: Right)
- Original article: https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-16255563/They-used-focal-point-weddings-christenings-funerals-communities-right-Ireland-dealing-loss-one-local-hotel-theres-ONE-reason-problem-likely-continue.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
- Topics: World

## Key points

- Hotel closures are reducing community spaces in Irish towns.
- Leixlip Manor will provide 35 rooms for emergency accommodation.
- Local people question the cost and impact on amenities.

## Summary

Hotels in Irish towns that once hosted weddings and community events are increasingly being used for emergency accommodation, leaving residents concerned about the loss of local amenities. The article argues that demand from councils and government contracts is likely to keep this trend going, while raising questions about the cost and suitability of hotel-based accommodation.

Leixlip Manor Hotel recently closed to the public under an agreement to house homeless families, making it the fourth hospitality business in the town used for accommodation. In Roscrea, the Merriman Hotel, formerly the town’s only hotel, began housing refugees in 2022 and international protection applicants in 2024; residents have claimed its use contributed to losses of up to €13.3 million locally. Kildare County Council said Dublin City Council will contract 35 rooms at Leixlip Manor, with ten reserved for local families.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.