Families left waiting over a year to move in to new houses

Thirteen Meath families in dire need of housing have been waiting for houses they have been allocated in Longwood for over a year.

The families received confirmation last year that they were allocated homes the Moydervey Housing development in Longwood, but have not been able to move into to them to date as water connections have not been made.

Deputy Johnny Guirke has called for Irish Water to expedite water connections to the estate.

“I have been inundated with calls from families who were offered homes in this development a year ago and they still have not moved into these houses.

“I have visited the site myself to see thirteen beautiful homes empty and many families left pondering if they will ever see their dreams come true of having a home for their family.”

Deputy Guirke spoke to Tuath Housing Association, who have allocated the houses.

“They explained that they can't do anything at the minute as they have agreed to purchase the thirteen houses from the developer and it was an issue from Irish Water's end.

“Following on from this, I contacted Irish Water and they explained that they are waiting to finalise the last of the development before signing off.

“They are 13 beautiful homes and 13 families anxiously waiting to move in. But they have been waiting a year.

“Anyboy who is on the housing list an allocated a house is badly in need of housing and it is ridiculous that in the middle of a housing crisis that beautiful homes like this can be lying unoccupied for the past year.

“You would think that a scheme like this would be prioritised at a time of crisis.

“They are 13 beautiful well finished houses and they are badly needed by the families that are waiting for them.

“I am calling on Irish Water, to expedite the development work so these thirteen families can move in and get settled before schools restart.

“It is something that should be easily overcome,” Deputy Guirke said.

A spokesperson for Irish Water said they could not comment on individual applications regarding new connections. “Any person or entity who needs to get a new or upgraded connection to the public water supply or wastewater collection infrastructure does so by engaging with Irish Water. Further information on the connection process is available at www.water.ie/connections.”

However, she said they were cognisant of the need for social housing nationally at this time, and endeavour to process such applications as quickly as possible.

Tuath Housing Association didn't wish to comment.

Pictured: The Moydervey Housing development in Longwood