Human barricade

A NORTHSIDE pensioner who prevented a local authority from carrying out the refurbishment of a flats complex in a dispute over noise has been warned that he could be forced out of his home.

Vincent Quinn (76) set up a human barricade at Cromcastle Court in Kilmore West last Friday (October 19) at 8am when he stopped workers from entering the block of flats.

Mr Quinn, who lives with his wife Elizabeth (80) in a one-bedroom flat in the block, says the noise is unbearable and is affecting his quality of life.

“They are working in the flat over us and the one beside us and we’re stuck in the middle,

? he told Northside People.

“They’re drilling, hammering and dropping things on the floor. It’s terrible.

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“I have been living here for 45 years and never experienced anything like it in my life.

“I have no problem with the workers. My argument is with Dublin City Council and the Government.

“This has been going on for three weeks now and I can’t take anymore. My wife is ill at the moment and this is a very stressful situation for both of us.

“There are other residents living in the block as well but they are all young and are going in and out. We’re the only elderly ones here and are at home all the time.

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Mr Quinn claimed he rang Dublin City Council to complain about the situation

“but got no joy

?.

In a statement, a spokesman for Dublin City Council told Northside People:

“Under the Development Plan work can start at 7am and finish at 6pm, Monday to Friday.

“Work commences in Cromcastle Court at 8am but no drilling takes place before 9am.

“Dublin City Council are currently refurbishing 48 voids at the request of the Cromcastle Court Residents’ Association.

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Before going to press, Dublin City Council delivered a letter by hand to Mr Quinn warning him about his protest.

In the letter, seen by Northside People, a Dublin City Council official said:

“It has been brought to my attention that this morning (October 19), Mr Quinn blocked the stairwell of Block 2 Cromcastle Court.

“Due to this action the Contractors, employed by Dublin City Council, were unable to gain access to carry out necessary works on units that are being redeveloped for re-letting.

“This is a Breach of your Tenancy Agreement as outlined:

‘The Tenant shall give the duly authorised employees, agents and workmen of the council and of gas, electricity supply and telephone authorities, all reasonable facilities for entering upon the premises for the purpose of inspection and for carrying out such work as may be deemed necessary’.

“Should you continue to refuse to allow Contractors working on behalf of Dublin City Council access to the complex, the Contractor has been instructed to contact the gardai and Dublin City Council will take appropriate action.

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The letter added:

“It must be emphasised that the complaint(s) made are serious, and if Dublin City Council form the opinion that there is substance to these complaint(s) then Dublin City Council will consider serving a Notice to Quit to terminate your tenancy and the initiation of legal proceedings for the recovery of your dwelling. It is important, therefore, that we discuss this matter with you at the earliest possible date.

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When contacted by Northside People after this letter was delivered to Mr Quinn, Dublin City Council’s spokesman said:

“This is an issue between Dublin City Council and one of our tenants. We are unable to comment on individual cases.

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