'Lives are being put at risk’ due to anti-social behaviour in Laois retirement village
The Retirement Village is located in Kilminchy, Portlaoise. File image
RESIDENTS who lives in Kilminchy Retirement Village in Portlaoise claims “lives are being put at risk” by alleged anti-social behaviour from teenagers from a nearby housing estate.
One of the residents who wishes to remain anonymous, explained that they and other neighbours living in many of the 70 houses at The Green in the extensive complex have been allegedly been “subjected” to both “verbal and physical threats” over the past couple of years. Such incidents have especially intensified from the summer months this year, they outlined.
The resident, who is not originally from the area, travelled to Portlaoise to visit their sister for a short break many years ago but never left as they “loved the tranquillity of the town and area. They said their mother and brother followed to Laois soon after and have now put down roots in the county as they too loved the area so much.
“I really liked Portlaoise and it felt like I was away from the hustle and bustle of city living but little did I know what was coming down the line with the anti-social behaviour I and others are being subjected to day and night by teenagers over the past two years,” continued the resident.
“Everyone looks out for each other here and we all try to provide help when a neighbour needs it. Over the last two months in particular, the anti-social behaviour starts at around 7pm daily and keeps going through the night with fireworks being let off,” they added.
“I phoned the gardaí on Wednesday night last (September 17) to complain and after 3.20am on Tuesday again due to fireworks which sounded like bombs. If it’s frightening me, can’t you imagine what it is doing to older people living here - many of whom do not or are not able to leave their homes.
“My neighbours, who are Asian with two children have been subjected to ongoing racist comments, youths have blocked people coming in and out of the complex at the main entrance by lying on the ground. Cars have also been broken into and residents have experienced physical threats. I’m at my wits end and so are many more.” The resident claims that “lives are being put at risk and someone will be seriously hurt or killed if this type of behaviour is not dealt with by the authorities. The gardaí need to do more. I’m constantly having to contact them.” The residents’ village committee is due to have its AGM this week (from Sept 22) where the matter will be raised by the resident.
“Hopefully something will come out of the meeting where more action will be taken. I have contacted Independent TD Brian Stanley and Labour councillor Marie Tuohy about this, and they have committed to looking into the problem,” the resident pointed out while he added that he will also be contacting other public representatives.
“I fear that something bad will happen to an older person living here or indeed one of the youths messing with fireworks, then it will be too late. All I and my neighbours are asking for is a bit of respect and help from the authorities.” In a statement to the , garda headquarters based in the Phoenix Park confirmed they had received reports of “fireworks in the area” and that “gardaí patrolled the area” but were "unable to locate any alleged parties involved or evidence” of what types of items that were being used.
