Family going through hell as vandals attack home
By Maurice Garvey
HALLOWEEN anti-social behavior hasn’t stopped for one family, who claim they are “living on the edge” due to vandals constantly attacking their home and threatening one of their kids.
Brian Pilkington (41), from Lealand Avenue in Clondalkin, says the activity started at Halloween, but has not relented since.
Brian Pilkington pointing to the damaged window.
“We’ve had our living room window smashed three times, and rocks thrown at the windows front and side that thankfully didn’t smash,” said Brian.
“There has also been eggs and fireworks thrown at the house, fireworks under the car. My partner’s 13-year-old, who comes over at the weekends, was threatened by the group. We have no clue why they’ve picked us to terrorise.”
The home is located on the corner of Lealand Road and Avenue, beside a small wall and open green space, which seems to make it an appealing hangout for teens.
Brian and his partner Ruth O’Toole (39), moved into the home four years ago, to get a fresh start after a tragic 2013 road accident, saw Ruth’s 22-month old child struck and killed by a car in Tallaght.
“My partner’s daughter died in her arms, she suffers from PTSD so we moved her to restart life – but now we are going through hell,” said Brian.
“We’ve had the guards up five times. They have been very good and are aware of who they are, but in fairness there is only so much they can do. South Dublin County Council don’t want to know.
“It is a quiet road but we are an easy target on this corner. We feel like we are fighting a losing battle because it’s getting out of hand every week. It’s horrible to have to live with that fear.”
Clondalkin Sinn Féin Councillor Mark Ward said he would be happy to make representations on the family’s behalf to SDCC.
Shorty after going to print, the home was attacked again on Thursday night by two young males.
Gardai arrived at the scene and are investigating the incident.
