Gleann Riada residents to protest
outside Council HQ next week

A protest by residents of the Gleann Riada development, outside the HQ of Longford County Council today has been postponed until next Tuesday, the Leader has learned.

The protest, which was expected to coincide with a special housing meeting and monthly meeting of the local authority, was re-scheduled after it emerged that both meetings would be adjourned in a mark of respect to the late Judy Caffrey – mother of Longford County Manager, Tim - who passed away last week.

Spokesperson for the residents of Gleann Riada, John McNamara said that they wanted to know where the money, recently acquired by Longford County Council in respect of the estate, “was going to be spent” and he pointed to the fact that “serious works within the estate” were now necessary. “What measures have been taken to alleviate sewer gas levels in the drainage system and to prevent the build up of sewer gas under the properties?” Mr McNamara fumed, adding that there were also people living in an apartment block that did not hold a fire certificate.

“What action is being taken by the local authority and the Fire Officer in respect of this matter, we ask? Mr Barry Lynch (Head of Finance) stated in a radio interview on November 21 last that results from CCTV camera works carried out in the estate would be available within days.......we are now nearing the end of January and no report has been provided to the residents nor has one been made public.”

The Leader also understands that letters were issued to homeowners of Gleann Riada to sign and return to Longford County Council, that granted permission for an assessment to be carried out on their properties.

“To date, any property owners spoken to, have not had a response,” Mr McNamara concluded.