Refugees arriving into Co Kildare must have their rights respected

Experts have called for a fair and efficient process for refugees arriving from the Middle East into Co Kildare.

The former Hazel Hotel in Monasterevin will house 520 people displaced from war-torn Syria while the disused Magee Barracks in Kildare town may also be used as a location.

Tanaiste Joan Burton said yesterday that Ireland could accept up to 5,000 refugees under a refugee programme rather than through the Direct Provision system.

But the Immigrant Council of Ireland said the rights of refugees need to be a priority when they arrive into the country.

Spokesman Jerry O'Connor said: "As an independent law centre we are in the process of beefing up our processes to ensure that when refugees do arrive here they have proper free legal representation so they can attain their rights, and this has to be a priority now that we know numbers are going to be increased."

The Kildare Volunteer Centre (KVC) is asking people to donate toys and bicycles to the Syrian refugees arriving in the county soon.

The goods can be delivered at the KVC's offices on Edward Street in Newbridge.