VIDEO: Vandalism delays €5m Traveller housing scheme launch in Cork

Vandalism has delayed the opening of a community centre built in a €5m Traveller housing scheme in Cork.

Several windows at the St Anthony’s Park facility in Hollyhill on the city’s northside have been broken and the exterior has been damaged.

City officials have secured the building for repairs, and the matter has been referred to gardaí.

Outspoken Fianna Fáil councillor Ken O’Flynn slated those responsible and said: “This isn’t the first time this kind of thing has happened on a Traveller site. If you’re not going to respect the facilities, then you don’t deserve the services. We spent an absolute fortune on this development, and this kind of black-guarding is a total waste of money at a time when we have elderly people waiting for housing repairs, and disabled people waiting for housing adaptation grants.”

St Anthony’s Park, developed by Cork City Council, opened in June to accommodate 16 Traveller families living on a cramped halting site nearby, opposite Apple computer’s European headquarters.

The mix of one, three, and four-bed houses have solar panels and stoves, built-in wardrobes, fully fitted kitchens, and wooden flooring. A grotto and two large green areas were also provided.

Bishop John Buckley visited the old halting site on June 15 as families relocated and urged them to respect their new homes and facilities.

However, news of the vandalism emerged at Monday’s council meeting after Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent sought an update about when the centre would open.

The city’s head of housing, Valerie O’Sullivan, said it has been subjected to numerous acts of vandalism, including two incidents in the week since November 13, which have delayed the opening.

She said officials consulted with residents of St Anthony’s Park just days earlier to hear their views on potential programmes and activities to be delivered from the building.

Traveller residents have suggested a range of activities but have specifically highlighted the need to provide activities for boys and young men.