Illegal encampments return to the Curragh

Illegal encampments have returned to the Curragh with gardaí and department officials working to identify those involved.

In a response to a query from Kildare TD Seán Ó Fearghaíl, the Department of Defence said bailiffs had visited the encampments several times over the weekend, where 26 caravans are present at Foxcovert.

Notices to quit were issued while the department also sought names from individuals, which were not always given.

The department said: “In addition, our bailiffs have taken the registration numbers of the cars parked there. They have engaged with An Garda Síochána to identify 26 owners of the vehicles in question. We also met with the local Superintendent on Friday and had a very positive engagement on how to progress.

“In the meantime, we will continue to issue notices to quit over the coming days. Garda support will also be requested to accompany the bailiffs and to seek further names.” The department told the Fianna Fáil deputy that they were doing everything to address the encampments.