Family must leave council house they occupied without permission

The High Court has ordered a family to vacate a three-bedroom council house at Casey Court, Kenagh, which they occupied without permission. Longford County Council sought the orders against John Paul Doyle, his wife Frances, and their children after the family moved into the vacant property and changed the locks. The council had offered alternative accommodation outside Longford, which the family declined, citing concerns about the property's suitability for their six children, including the absence of a rear garden and proximity to a busy road. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan granted the order but imposed an eight-week stay, urging both parties to reach an agreement. The Doyles, who have been on the housing list for approximately two years and lack legal representation, indicated they may appeal. Mr Doyle claimed the family was being treated differently due to their Traveller background, a contention rejected by the council's counsel. The court heard the council had increased rent allowance to €42 weekly for the alternative property.