Protesters have gathered in Galway to form a blockade at the entrance of the Ross Lake House Hotel in Rosscahill.
They are opposing Government plans to house 70 asylum seekers on the premises from next Thursday.
In a statement to RTÉ News, locals said that the blockade will remain in place for as long as it takes and until they receive further communication from the Department of Integration.
The Ross Lake Hotel is currently under private ownership, but has not been in use for a number of years.
The Department of Integration has made clear, in a statement provided to locals, that it intends to work closely with the local community to facilitate and manage the arrival of asylum seekers.
The department also clarified that a one-year contract to house International Protection Applicants has been offered to the centre.
Report: Donncha Ó Murchú
