Residents insist they won’t be ‘bulldozed’

Eir says development is exempt from planning process.

Telecommunications firm eir says the erection of a 12 metre pole with an integrated antenna system next to a Bailieborough estate is exempt from being subject to the full rigours of a planning process.

Local residents, and a community similarly affected in neighbouring Monaghan, are now up in arms over the erection of the new 5G support structures, with the latter located not 12 foot from a child's bedroom.

In Scotshouse, locals held a public meeting on Monday night, arising from which a round-the-clock protest is set to be manned. Contractors hired by Eir were blocked from entering the exchange site last Tuesday, after a monopole structure was first erected there.

“It's terrible how anyone or anybody would think this is okay,” says Fianna Fáil Councillor Séamus Coyle, who expressed shock after seeing the proximity of the mast to the neighbouring residential property first-hand.

Similar to the Bailieborough situation, Cllr Coyle was informed by local authority planners that the development is exempt from a full planning permission process because it is below 12-metres in height.

Unlike a standard planning application, because of the mast's size there is no requirement for eir to put up a site notice or inform by way of an advert placed in a local newspaper.

In a statement to The Anglo-Celt, a spokesperson for eir informed that the company is "developing an existing telecom site at the telephone exchange in Bailieborough, Co. Cavan, featuring a 12m pole with an integrated antenna system. This upgrade will improve mobile voice and data services, particularly indoor coverage in the town center, and is classified as exempt under Class 31 of the Planning and Development Regulations. The new pole will replace an existing one at the site."

“It's absolutely outrageous,” said Cllr Coyle, who is now calling for a full examination of how such structures are sanctioned in future. “You have a situation in Scotshouse, a mast not 12 foot from the a child's bedroom, a family with a newborn baby as well.”

In Bailieborough, workmen last week set about erecting a new mast in the Pine Grove area.

The mast is located a little over 20 yards from the home of Kevin Carolan, who informed the Celt that locals contacted local Sinn Féin Cllr Paddy McDonald on the matter.

A planning enforcement officer also attended the scene, and Mr Carolan says the situation, like in Scotshouse, is “at a standstill”.

“We have never been notified or contacted in any shape or form concerning this work been undertaken by Eircom,” Kevin states. “There is a swimming pool, two schools, shops and dwellings. We are right bang in the middle of it. We won't be bulldozed out of anyone's way, that's a guarantee.”

STATEMENT:

Scotshouse Village: Opposing the Erection of a Mast

The community of Scotshouse and surrounding areas have launched an urgent call to action regarding a matter that directly impacts our community's well-being and future: the erection of a mast within Scotshouse Village. While the intentions behind this proposal may be driven by technological advancement, it's crucial to recognise the potential ramifications this could have on our community.

First and foremost, there are legitimate concerns about the health implications associated with the presence of such infrastructure in close proximity to residential areas. While the debate surrounding the health effects of electromagnetic radiation continues, it's essential to err on the side of caution and thoroughly assess the potential risks to our families and children. This mast has been erected a mere twelve feet from a child’s bedroom.

Additionally, we must consider the aesthetic impact on our village's landscape. Scotshouse is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. The introduction of a towering mast could irreversibly alter the character of our village, affecting not only property values but also our collective sense of place and identity. The mast is located in close proximity to four preserved buildings, therefore impacting the heritage of our beautiful village.

In light of these concerns, we believe it is our responsibility as residents to unite and oppose the erection of this mast. Our voices matter, and together, we have the power to advocate for the preservation of Scotshouse Village for generations to come. To this end, we held a public on Monday 6th May to strategise our opposition efforts. We invite all concerned to join and support us as we find ways to effectively communicate our objections, mobilise support, and explore legal avenues to challenge this proposal. Contact has been made with public representatives, local politicians and support has been pledged by all parties. The Scotshouse community will continue its vigil of the site to ensure no further work is carried out.

Signed,

Scotshouse Community.