Local Community activist and Letterkenny Candidate, Finn O Donnell has hit out at Donegal County Council for what he claims is the complete lack of housing and housing prioritisation for single mothers struggling to obtain a home for their children.
Mr O Donnell claims in recent weeks has been contacted by single mothers who have been on the waiting list for up to 5 years without any word from the council on their housing needs.
He said that during his canvass he has spoken to dozens of single mums regarding their housing situation and it is truly shocking.
He said “There are mothers with two children or more living in small two bedroom houses that are clearly unsuitable for them. I have also seen much-needed repairs to homes that have been neglected not for weeks but for years. There is not only a lack of homes for single mothers but also a lack of repairs that is the council’s responsibility”
The Community activist went on to claim that the prioritization of houses and those who need them is in dire need of review and that the amount of empty houses lying vacant in the town is unacceptable.
“Everyday I walk around town and see empty houses lying there idle. I speak with mothers who need a bigger more suitable home for their kids. Why are none of our councillors talking about this and why is nothing being done?”
Mr O Donnell goes on to say “If these struggling mothers are moved into a more suitable home, it doesn’t mean that more houses are taken up. It means that a smaller council house would then be available for fathers, single people or those with one child. The houses are there, The money is there from government and the council should be held responsible and accountable and I think we all should stand up against it.”
Finn O Donnell is running as an Independent Candidate in the Letterkenny Local elections. He is a member of the Homeless & Housing Coalition and is campaigning heavily for housing in his local area.
