New twist to ongoing Mayo pyrite controversy

Elected members of Ballina Municipal District have passed a motion to support residents of pyrite-affected estates and are calling for immediate action to address ongoing structural issues.

Both council-managed and privately developed estates are grappling with the costly and disruptive consequences of pyrite damage.

Of particular concern is boundary walls which residents fear responsibility of repairs has been neglected.

Under the redress scheme, boundary walls built with defective concrete blocks are not covered for repairs or replacement, leaving a perilous scenario for residents in housing estates.

Independent Councillor Mark Duffy tabled the motion stating: "The repair of boundary walls is a necessity, with the Rockwell Estate in Ballina facing particularly high costs due to tight financial margins homeowners experiencing under the current redress scheme."

Supporting the motion, Fine Gael Councillor John O'Hara pointed out the health and safety risks posed by unstable walls, which could collapse onto adjacent roads, injuring children and posing an accident risk.

Cathaoirleach Michael Loftus also expressed his support for the motion, acknowledging the known issues with pyrite along the N59 in regard to boundary walls that has seen walls collapse.

The motion passed unanimously in the Ballina chamber. It will now be forwarded to the September meeting of Mayo County Council as a joint motion, where it will be further discussed and potentially actioned.