Calls to restore estate managers hours
By Mary Dennehy
THE impact cuts to Estate Management workers has had on communities was discussed at a recent policing forum, with many believing that a disconnect within some estates is directly linked with a lack of resources on the ground.
In 2011, the Government introduced a 50 per cent cut to Estate Management teams in South Dublin County, which saw the estate manager hours in Fettercairn slashed from five days to two days, with teams in Killinarden and North Clondalkin also hit.
At the recent West Tallaght Policing Forum public meeting, residents spoke of the need for the restoration of these hours, with estate managers creating vital links not only between residents but between the community and services such as the gardai, the council, the HSE and Dublin Bus.
One Fettercairn woman who spoke at the meeting, and who was calling for the restoration of Fettercairn estate manager Mary Keegan’s hours, said: “We need more resources on the ground, estate management is invaluable.”
People also spoke of how Estate Management teams liaise with the community, especially its young people – with many believing that there is a direct link between cuts to estate managers and rising anti-social behaviour.
Speaking at the meeting, Labour councillor Mick Duff said: “We have fought to get the funding restored, and South Dublin County Council has lobbied the Minister to see that funding restored.
“We will continue to lobby, the issue is not being ignored.”
The Echo went looking for answers this week on whether the restoration of these cuts was on the cards however, it was not an easy task.
The cuts were introduced in 2011 by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, which at the time was headed up by Minister Phil Hogan.
However, subsequent changes to a number of Government departments has caused confusion over who is responsible for answering The Echo’s question.
We initally contacted the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, which redirected us to the Department of Rural and Community Development, which redirected us back to the Department of Housing, Planning and Government.
No response was received in time for print.
