On Tuesday morning, Feb. 24, Governor Kelly Ayotte announced via a press release that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will not be moving forward with its proposal to convert a warehouse in Merrimack, N.H. into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility.
This decision comes in the wake of mass protests from New Hampshire residents and pushback from state legislators following the release of information regarding the proposed plans in the Washington Post.
“During my trip to Washington last week, I had productive discussions with Secretary Kristi Noem, and I’m pleased to announce that the Department of Homeland Security will not move forward with the proposed ICE facility in Merrimack,” said Ayotte in the press release. “I thank Secretary Noem for hearing the concerns of the Town of Merrimack and for the continued cooperation between DHS and New Hampshire law enforcement to secure our northern border, keep dangerous criminals off our streets, and ensure our communities are safe.”
Ayotte faced criticism regarding whether or not she was aware of the ICE facility plans prior to the leaked information. Although work on the facility will not continue, the NH government continues to foster a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security.
“I appreciated my discussions with Governor Ayotte last week,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “From banning sanctuary cities to strengthening law enforcement cooperation, New Hampshire has been a strong partner in securing our country, and we look forward to continuing our work together.”
