Action called on two vacant Laois council houses
Action is being urged on two vacant Laois council houses and a derelict private house all in Portlaoise.
The council houses are "vacant for a very long time" claims Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley, urging Laois County Council to speed up refurbishment works so people can be given keys to homes.
She said that a long derelict private house was a target for fires, trespassing and is being bought by the council.
She tabled a motion to the April meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District to request an update on a vacant council house in Clonrooske View, another in Parnell Crescent, Knockmay and a privately owned derelict house also in Parnell Crescent.
"These are three houses that could be brought into use. One is in Clonrooske View, there is a huge amount of work to be carried out. There is an issue with the boundary wall to the back of houses that I understand will be addressed.
"The two council owned houses are vacant for a very long time, particularly Clonrookse View. It seems to take forever to get a contractor and get work done," Cllr Dwane Stanley said.
She said that a fire was attempted in the privately owned derelict house.
"It has caused huge problems. I had to get on to the council. People tried to set fire to it. It was boarded up because people were getting in. I am aware that the council are progressing and bought it.
"With the housing crisis and the eviction ban lifted, we badly need these three. I hope we can get an update next month on when they will be ready," the Sinn Féin councillor said.
She described the council's reply to her motion as "disappointing" as it had no dates.
The council said that tenants will be selected for its two houses shortly.
"Both local authority houses at Parnell Crescent and Clonrooske View are undergoing works and will be allocated in the comnig weeks.
"In addition, the council has inspoected a privately owned property in Parnell Crescent with a view to acquiring same and is currently awaiting an evaluation in order to progress the acquisition".
The motion was seconded by Cllr Barry Walsh.