Kelly backs calls for HSE to allow derelict land be put to social use as public park

Labour Party Leader Alan Kelly gave strong backing to the campaign for a green space development on lands owned by the HSE in Ratoath.

Deputy Kelly, who resigned as leader of the Labour Party on Wednesday night, had been in Ratoath to launch a canvass campaign by Eilish Balfe, the party's local area representative.

"I've seen the HSE site myself and it's a disgrace the way it has been neglected for about 20 years. The place is overgrown, the fencing is falling down, it's unsightly and it's a health hazard," he said.

"It's not believable that the HSE intends to develop a primary care centre here at some future unspecified date. The HSE and Meath County Council should look immediately to putting the land to good social use as a small public park.

Deputy Kelly said another vital piece of infrastructure that needs development is the dangerous junction in the village centre. "The road is in a very poor state and it's not safe for motorists, cyclists or pedestrians. Eilish Balfe said: "It's great that we'll soon see the Council plans for the development of the village centre. We're continuing with the campaign on the HSE-owned site.

"It was clear from the canvass we did that local people want more and better facilities for children, youths and adults of all ages. We need a new deal for the people of Ratoath," she said.

Ivana Bacik is the frontrunner to replace Alan Kelly as party leader with Dublin TD Duncan Smith saying he will not run for the leadership while Dublin Bay North TD Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has also ruled himself out of any leadership bid, tweeting that Ms Bacik has his "full support".