By Dan Walsh
Local Fine Gael Cllr Robbie Staples has backed Tánaiste Simon Harris’s call for stronger action on derelict properties, stating that “tackling dereliction is essential if Ireland is to address its housing shortage.”
Speaking with WexfordLocal.com, Cllr Staples said; “I fully agree with the Tánaiste. We have derelict and vacant buildings right across our area that could be homes, and the powers to act already exist, grants, the derelict sites levy, and CPOs.
“The frustration is that these tools aren’t being used consistently enough. Where the levy is properly applied to owners and developers, it works.
“I know Wexford County Council has been very active in trying to deal with this issue and I commend the officials involved for their valuable work and the progress they have made, but the fact is that for whatever reason, progress has been painfully slow and there are still far too many empty and derelict properties in Wexford which we need to bring back to life to provide much needed homes for our people.
“Every derelict building brought back into use is a home for a family and a boost for our town centres. I want to see the Council use every power available to it, and I’ll be pushing for that,” concluded Cllr Staples.
WexfordLocal.com 