Utility workers allegedly harassed by group of youths
By Maurice Garvey
UTILITY workers attempting to re- install public lighting were allegedly harassed by youths and had to leave before their work was completed, The Echo has learned.
The Echo understands the incident occurred approximately two weeks ago on Cherry Orchard Avenue.
Public street lighting has not been working for weeks on end in the area, which affects residents living on the Avenue and the adjacent Croftwood Gardens estate.
Dublin City Council told The Echo it was a matter for the ESB.
The ESB told The Echo they are not involved in public street lighting anymore, and it was a matter for SSE Airtricity.
SSE Airtricity did not respond to The Echo at the time of going to print.
According to a local source, the section pillar in Cherry Orchard Avenue which also covers the lighting on Croftwood Gardens was knocked out.
A utility crew attended the scene two weeks ago, but had to leave due to harassment from local youths.
Cllr Daithí Doolan said: “The residents of Cherry Orchard deserve better than this. They have been living in darkness for weeks. This is very threatening, particularly for elderly and vulnerable residents.
“I have contacted the ESB and the gardai. I have been assured that SSE Airtricity will be out on Tuesday to repair the lighting. I will be holding them to this.”
A garda source told The Echo they were aware of the issue but cannot confirm if a call was reported to gardai.
The source said if a utility company contacted gardai in relation to such matters, An Garda Síochána would “always respond appropriately and assist as is necessary.”
The Echo understands if gardai were required for a short time there would be no issue, but if required for many hours, advance notice would be required to put arrangements in place.
