Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I understand there would be a mix or rural and urban accommodation but surely there must be consideration of whether transport and facilities are available. To put it in people's minds, the facility in question is an old equestrian centre, so you can imagine the level of accommodation we will be able to provide. It will certainly not be up to standard. There are also serious issues in respect of compliance, and I know that has been brought to the local authority's attention. What is frustrating for the people in the community is that they do not seem to be getting answers in respect of what they should do or to whom they should speak about the compliance issues. It feels as if no matter what happens, the box is going to be ticked. It is potentially setting a dangerous precedent, especially when there is a need for housing in that area and other people cannot build houses there because of the issues I have set out in respect of water and sewerage.

I welcome that the Minister has said no contract has been signed yet. There is, however, a feeling that serious works are going on, all day at times. Does someone do that level of work and get no contract? You can understand where the community is coming from, particularly when there are no answers. Sixty-six families moved in initially. The Minister is welcome to come to the area to see the seriously bad bend on the road. Those families were involved in getting high-visibility vests and everything else for people to allow them to be somewhat safe in the area. The facility is not suitable.

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