Wexford council to spend €805,000 on two social houses — ‘we should withdraw from that tender immediately’
Wexford PeopleWexford County Council’s ability to get bang for its buck has been questioned by a New Ross councillor after it was revealed that the local authority is spending €805,000 on the construction of two new houses in The Bullawn.
Although one of the properties is for a family with additional needs, and thus requires a specific build-out, Councillor Michael Sheehan has suggested that any contract be “put on ice” until a breakdown of the costs is acquired.
“It’s gone out to tender and from what I understand the cost of building the two units - one of which is a three-bed for special needs - is €805,000,” said Cllr Sheehan at the September meeting of the New Ross Municipal District (NRMD). “The council should withdraw from that tender immediately. Go somewhere else and build proper houses in a proper area.
“We have a responsibility to the taxpayer, if we’re building two units for €805,000 there’s something seriously wrong. We need to put the contract on ice. Go and build some affordable houses instead, there are enough sites for sale across the town.”
In response, housing officer Martina Donoghue confirmed that a contractor was appointed in July of this year.
“I don’t have the value of the tender, but I will look into it,” she continued. “Do all the councillors agree that we should withdraw from that?”
However, Cathaoirleach John Fleming advised caution.
“We should get as much information as possible first before any decision is made,” he said.
Cllr Pat Barden was also reluctant to act with undue haste.
“There is going to be a lot of extra cost in those if they’re for a family with special needs,” he said. “There’s particular equipment required which I presume is part of the price.”
“My concern is we’re not getting value for money,” argued Cllr Sheehan. “It’s a lot of money for a tiny area.”