Residents ‘plagued’ by dealers, Louth councillor warns as new strategy begins
Residents in a small number of Louth County Council estates are being “plagued” by anti-social behaviour and drug dealing, a Drogheda councillor has warned.
The concerns were raised at the latest meeting of Drogheda Borough District, where members were updated on a new Tenant Engagement and Anti‑Social Behaviour Strategy currently being developed by Louth County Council.
Paula Keenan, Administrative Officer with the council, told councillors that the Housing Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) is leading the work, with elected members invited to take part in upcoming consultation events in Drogheda, Dundalk and Ardee. A series of workshops for councillors will also be held.
“We really appreciate your engagement and input,” Ms Keenan said, outlining that the revised strategy will prioritise improved tenant engagement, stronger data collection, enhanced communication and preventative approaches to anti‑social behaviour. She added that a coordinated, “multi‑agency” response was being built into the plan.
Alongside the new strategy, the council is also establishing a Louth County Council Tenant Forum, and will produce a new tenant handbook as part of the overhaul.
“When we are talking about tenant engagement it is anyone who has a tenancy agreement with Louth County Council, that includes anyone in a long‑term tenancy arrangement,” Ms Keenan added.
A county‑wide public consultation is expected to begin in April, with co‑design workshops planned for May and June. The council aims to bring the completed strategy to the full chamber for adoption by October.
Cllr Pio Smith welcomed the work, saying a minority of tenants were causing serious disruption in certain areas.
“There are some estates in Drogheda and Dundalk — not many — but one or two where residents are plagued by a small number of people who are dealing on a regular basis,” he told the meeting.
“It is very hard to get evidence to nail someone as regards this, but it is definitely a problem,” he said, adding that he hoped the new strategy and tenant forum would “alleviate some of the stress that residents have, because it is unfair for the majority of residents in these estates.”
Mayor Cllr Michelle Hall queried whether tenants with concerns should go through the new forum or directly to the council.
Ms Keenan clarified that reports of anti‑social behaviour should be made through the usual channels.
“If you are experiencing anti‑social behaviour you would come to ourselves as you always would,” she said. “The tenant forum is more focused on giving tenants the opportunity to have a voice. We will be engaging with the forum in the drafting of the new Anti‑Social Behaviour Strategy to ensure their voices are heard.”