In a symbolic gesture of frustration and determination, the residents of Shannonvale have renamed their local park to Uisce Éireann Park.
This renaming comes after 27 years of ongoing environmental issues, including persistent raw sewage problems that have rendered the park unusable.
The decision to rename the park was driven by the community’s desire to draw attention to the lack of action from Uisce Éireann who are responsible for water services. Despite decades of appeals and campaigns, the park remains plagued by a foul smell and frequent flooding from a nearby septic tank, making it inaccessible and unpleasant for local residents.
The park, now officially listed as Uisce Éireann Park on Google Maps, stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and their ongoing fight for a clean and safe environment. The residents are calling for immediate government intervention to restore the park to its former glory.
Minister Darragh O’Brien visited the park in 2022 and promised funding for the necessary improvements, but to date, no significant progress has been made. The Environmental Protection Agency continues to investigate the situation, and Uisce Éireann has stated that they are working on a long-term solution.
The renaming of the park is not just a protest but a plea for action. The residents of Shannonvale are determined to reclaim their park and ensure it becomes a safe and enjoyable space for future generations.
