Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Arson Attack

Suspected arson attack at Louth halting site causes thousands worth of damage

The incident happened at around 8.30pm at the Woodland Park site.

woodland Woodland Park, Dundalk Google Maps Google Maps

A HALTING SITE was damaged in a suspected arson attack last night.

Units of the Dundalk fire service attended the scene at Woodland Park and extinguished the fire at around 8.30pm .

Damage was done to three separate bays which were being built to house a number of families in the area.

The site at Woodland Park in Dundalk had been the centre of controversy at the start of the year as 17 families were evicted from the site.

The halting site had official recognition a number of year ago. However, it had lost that status and those living there were deemed to be doing so illegally.

Gardaí assisted Louth County Council with the eviction, which led to heated confrontations between residents and officers.

It was then decided that the site would be refurbished and would cost over €675,000.

Local sources said damage was done to three bays and would likely cost over €10,000 to fix.

Worrying

Sinn Féín TD for Louth Gerry Adams said he was very worried about the vandalism.

He said: “I’ve been in touch with An Garda Síochána, and, if this is an arson attack, everyone has a duty to support the gardaí in their investigations, so that the perpetrator can be brought to justice.

I also welcome the commitment from Louth County Council that they will complete the refurbishment works.

“Travellers have rights and, like all sections of our society, we need to defend and promote those rights.”

Read: Despite delays and ticketing issues, Irish Rail hails a ‘very successful morning’ for Phoenix Park tunnel >

Read: Priests are now allowed forgive women who have abortions >

Your Voice
Readers Comments
17
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.