An island divided: The battle over direct provision on Achill

Tensions remain high on Achill in the face of continuing uncertainty over a proposed direct provision centre

Achill Island’s usual serenity has been rocked in recent weeks by a bitter dispute over asylum seekers

Driving west last Tuesday, Achill looked picture-perfect. The scenes mirrored those made famous by John Hinde 50 years ago when he photographed the island for his renowned Irish postcard collection.

On approach to Keel village, several cars were backed up behind an old Massey Ferguson tractor lugging no load other than its driver. A procession of sheep was headed in the same direction. It was impossible not to admire the views of Keel ...