In light of recent concerns raised by residents in an Enfield estate regarding the placement of a high-risk individual without prior notification or consultation, Aontú Councillor Emer Tóibín is calling on Meath County Council to be upfront about what, if any, risk assessment was carried out prior to the person being moved into the area.
Cllr Tóibín says
“I have been inundated with communication from residents who have genuine fears for their safety and that of their families.
This situation is one that has and is being replicated up and down the country.
The buck stops with the Government and its high handed and cavalier attitude to the very real fears of communities is not leadership and is not fair. Being shy about details does nothing for public confidence and it is shocking that this Government continues its policy of being opaque as opposed to being open
The lack of any advance communication and safeguarding information whatsoever has led to widespread anxiety, particularly among families, older residents, and vulnerable individuals who deserve reassurance and clarity.
I want to be crystal clear about this. The issues being raised are not about opposition to housing or support services.
They are about the absence of basic consultation and clear safeguarding information for families, older residents and vulnerable people living in the area.
Meath County Council has an absolute duty of care to all residents and has to realise that the absence of prior information will not lead to an absence of fear but will actually exacerbate any fear.
Residents have asked very reasonable questions:
• What risk assessment was carried out?
• What inter-agency communication took place?
• What supports or safeguards are in place?
• Why were residents not informed in advance or given an opportunity to seek reassurance?
The council has told me that the individual is linked in with all the relevant services and there is a team of expertise on hand to assist him with his new living arrangements and facilitate his access to the required services.
His placement here is understood be to temporary.
I have contacted Meath County Council to request:
• an explanation of the decision-making process,
• clarity on the risk assessment undertaken,
• and engagement with residents as soon as possible.
Calling for calm, clear information and respectful dialogue Cllr Tóibín says
“There must be a stronger acknowledgment of people’s right to information and reassurance, something that has unfortunately been lacking in this instance. I will continue to follow up until residents receive the answers and assurances they deserve”.
