Chris O’Dwyer, the Local Area Representative for the Labour Party in Clondalkin-Rathcoole is calling on South Dublin County Council to turn around vacant Council houses. O’Dwyer, who has previously worked with homeless families are calling on SDCC to pick up the pace at which they turn around a property and to avoid leaving a property vacant for too long.
O’Dwyer said: “Recently I was out in Bawnogue speaking with residents about local issues and one common theme that arose in these chats was residents anger with the Council regarding vacant Council homes in the area. “One resident reported to me that one such property has been vacant for 4 months now and is becoming a vocal point for anti-social behaviour and criminality. The resident said that he and other residents are having to keep an eye on the property in order to make sure it doesn’t look like it is vacant. He informed that they take it turns to cut the grass in the front of the house however, the property is still a target.
“The resident informed me that people are gaining access to the rear of the property via the back garden. He has also expressed concern over the increase of rodent activity in the area due to food waste in the back garden. “I have contacted South Dublin County Council, provided them with the details and have asked them to carry out the necessary interventions to get the house occupied, the waste removed and the property secured. With over 2000 children homeless in the State it is inexcusable for Local Authorities to be dragging their feet and its essential that vacant properties get turned around in a timely manner. A time limit needs to be imposed on these works and fines issued to local authorities when these deadlines are not met.
