Senator calls for a debate on illegal encampment following another encampment on the Curragh

Local Senator and Newbridge resident Fiona O’Loughlin has called for a national debate on how we deal with illegal encampments in the Seanad today.

Senator O'Loughlin said, “I once again had to raise the issue of illegal encampments on the Curragh Plains in the Senate this morning. This is an issue I have raised consistently over the years, and I have even introduced legislation in Leinster House, on two occasions, once in the Dail and once in the Seanad which would effectively deal with encampments on the Curragh but to no avail.

“The current encampment, consisting of 40 vans, is a huge concern. I have been speaking to local people who have expressed concern in terms of animal welfare and in terms of the potential damage to the Curragh itself.

“We need a better system to deal with illegal encampments as they arise and this is not just on the Curragh, but in general. There is issues when it comes to dealing with such encampments, the length of time and the potential legal costs to the local authority for example."

O'Loughlin concluded, “I have been in touch with local gardai and the Tanaiste’s office in terms of the current encampment, but we need to see progress in terms of the wider issue of dealing with illegal encampments.”