Dublin South East Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Doolan-Council tenants demand action on fire trap

Published: 28 October, 2005

Sinn Féin's Dublin Spokesperson on the Environment & Dublin South East Representative, Councillor Daithí Doolan, today demanded that, "City Council officials take immediate action to stop any more fire deaths in their flat complexes."

Speaking after a public meeting with the residents of Ross Rd, Bride St & Nicholas St , Cllr. Doolan said:

"I am totally shocked at what residents told me today. Tenants informed me that following the tragedy fire on the Ross Road in 2001, where 2 children were killed, promises were made by City Council to upgrade the fire standards in these flats. Yet, to date it appears that none of these life saving promises have been kept. According to Independent Fire Consultant, Robin Knox, the smoke alarms are fitted incorrectly, no fire training has been provided to residents and most shocking of all even the fire doors are counterfeit.

"Residents are angry, upset but determined to hold Council officials responsible for their actions. The Residents Association has my full support in their campaign to have their flats brought up to a safe standard. Nobody should be forced to live in this substandard, life threatening environment.

"I will be contacting the Minister for Environment Dick Roche today raising these serious concerns and calling for immediate action. I am also seeking an emergency meeting with the City Manager to get answers and a guarantee that all necessary work is carried out as a matter of urgency. Residents are committed to taking all action necessary to have their case heard and actions taken to prevent any more deaths in this community."

In conclusion Cllr. Doolan, called on Council officials, "to take responsibility their seriously and upgrade these flats before there is further tragedy."