A brief note on some local issues from
Cllr. Michael O’Donovan

Taking in charge for Allendale Square:
Discussions have started between Menolly Properties and Fingal Council on this issue, but we are at a very early stage. If Fingal were to take in charge, for example, the main green area, the public lighting, the roads and the drainage system, this could result in reduced management fees. I am expecting a written report from management within the next three weeks and I will send it to you.

Open Space and Recreation:
The Council’s Parks Department has produced a plan for open space, sports pitches and a children’s playground on the large open space behind Ongar House. Funding is available from development levies, so the work will be done. If you would like a copy of these plans, please phone or email me.

Policing:
Community Gardai are now holding “clinics” which are open to all local residents.
• Garda Liam Nolan is available at the Community Hall in Mary Mother of Hope School, every Thursday night from 20.30 to 21.30.
• There is also a Garda Clinic in Ongar which is running on a trial basis every second Wednesday morning from 08.30 to 09.30 at Castaheany Educate Together School.

Management Companies:
Labour in campaigning for the new legislation recommended by the Law Reform Commission on the regulation of Management Companies. In plain language, we want residents to be able to take over their management companies in a timely and orderly fashion, and run it as they want it. Unfortunately, this excellent report is gathering dust, but my colleague Joan Burton is continuing to press in the Dáil for legislation to empower residents to be brought forward.

If you would like a copy of our information leaflet on dealing with management companies, please contact us.

If you wish to discuss this or any other issues, please contact me on 087 2207798 or e-mail me at michael.odonovan@fingalcoco.ie.