PLANS to resettle five Syrian refugee families on the Island have been approved by Isle of Wight Council bosses.
They are due to arrive in April, after the plans were unanimously supported at last night's (Thursday) meeting of the council executive.
Addressing concerns raised about a lack of housing on the Island, Cllr Julia Baker-Smith said: "There are concerns it may displace local people waiting for housing. I want to offer reassurance that won't be the case, as we are seeking suitable accommodation through the private sector to help these very needy families."
She appealed for private landlords with available properties to get in touch.
The government has said it will provide funding to support the families over the next four years.
Describing the plans as flawed, UKIP Cllr Daryll Pitcher said: "If we can afford to rent houses, whether from the private or public sector, they could go to people living rough on the Isle of Wight. But we have chosen not to do that.
"That is the issue behind people's disquiet and I agree with them."
However, deputy leader Cllr Steve Stubbings said the plans were supported by the Isle of Wight community.
"Despite come comments that have been made by people who do not live in the same century as the rest of us, most people agree we should help those in need," he said.