Community rallies behind project after devastating fire

Neil Fetherstonhaugh

A CONCERTED effort will be required to help get a local community group back on its feet after a fire devastated their Tallaght base of operations.

The premises used by the St Aengus Community Drug Treatment Project in Tymon North was destroyed by fire on the evening of Sunday, November 17.

It has since emerged that criminals ransacked the premises following the blaze and stole equipment.

Local Fianna Fáil councillor, Charlie O’Connor, has urged the Government to work closely with South Dublin County Council and the Health Service Executive to repair the damage caused to the project.

Cllr O’Connor said: “Those involved with the St Aengus community-based drug treatment, rehabilitation and education project have been providing tremendous support to those struggling with drug misuse or dependency in the greater Tallaght area.

“Thankfully there was no one killed or injured as a result of this fire but the loss of this centre is still devastating for our community. I very much commend those with Dublin Fire Brigade who ensured the safety of everyone involved and the general public close by.

“I joined my colleague on the Regional Health Forum, Cllr Mick Duff who manages the project, in visiting the site to see the horrendous damage. Those I met, which included local residents and the families of those that availed of services at the centre were visibly upset.

“Relocating services to the local community centre is not a viable long-term solution and it’s important that funding is made available for remedial works to be carried out and to get the centre back up and running.

“As a member of the executive of the Tallaght Drugs and Alcohol Taskforce I wish to acknowledge their support – I know they will provide assistance to those working with the St Aengus project. Government need to now closely co-ordinate efforts to repair the premises with South Dublin County Council and HSE.”

He added: “Those responsible for the crimes carried out after Dublin Fire Brigade had left the scene must be identified and dealt with appropriately.”

Cllr Duff said they were still attempting to provide services to the local community but admitted their work was severely hampered.

“The needle exchange programme has been halted as we cannot get into the room where the equipment was,” he revealed. “But we have had great support from the community who have been rallying behind us and we hope to get back on track soon.”