There has been a change to initial plans for the former Capuchin Friary in Carlow town.
It had been proposed it would house 50 male asylum seekers.
However according to the Irish Examiner, last night it was confirmed families would instead move into the facility.
The U-turn was made by the Department of Integration.
In a statement issued to Beat News, a Department spokesperson said:
"The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth will be providing accommodation for families seeking International Protection at the Capuchin Guest Accommodation, Dublin Street, Carlow in the coming days.
"Although it had initially been expected that the property would be used to house men, following a departmental meeting last night regarding the increasing number of families, and despite the ongoing acute shortage of accommodation for single males, it has been decided that the requirement to prioritise families must take precedence.
"As the Capuchin Centre is available for immediate use, it will be used to address the needs of families. This is one of a number of premises that will change use as a result of this shortage."
Yesterday, a demonstration was held outside the facility on Dublin Street in Carlow town.
Meanwhile, in North Kilkenny, the owners of an empty Spa in Johnstown have had to clarify to locals, that it would not be used to accommodate refugees.
In an open letter issued to locals, P-P-B Properties said they never have, and never will, seek to house international protection applicants in the building.
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