Waterford Council advise Mount Suir residents to 'avoid balconies'
The balcony in Mount Suir Manor Block C where two children reportedly fell from. Photo: Alex Cunningham
Waterford City and County Council are advising residents at Mount Suir Manor to avoid their balconies 'until further notice'.
The warning comes one week after a three-year old boy and seven-year-old girl fell through their balcony's window pane.
Jayden O'Neill (3) and his sister Nevaeh O'Neill (7) were rushed to University Hospital Waterford after falling over 20 feet on the morning of Friday, March 20. Jayden suffered a brain bleed. Both children have since been discharged from hospital and returned to home in Block C. Block C is under the ownership of Waterford City and County Council
The horrifying incident has re-ignited criticism over the conditions in the apartment complex. Councillors and residents have raised issues including heat, mould, algae, and basic safety.
The Council launched an investigation to establish the 'full circumstances surrounding the incident.' On Friday, March 27, Waterford Council released a statement about the ongoing investigation into Mount Suir Manor. It stated: "A technical inspection of all balconies of Block C, which is in the full ownership and occupation of the Local Authority, commenced on Monday, March 23rd. Structural engineers are currently endeavouring to complete all inspections this week. Once completed a detailed report will be prepared and all necessary actions arising from its findings will be implemented."
The statement continued: "The owner management company (OMC) with responsibility for Blocks A and B confirmed to the Council that it has also commenced inspections of all balconies within those blocks.
"While understanding the concern, frustration and inconvenience caused, Waterford City and County Council is advising tenants, as a precautionary measure, that access to balconies is restricted and should be avoided wherever possible until further notice.
"The Council continues to work with and provide support to the family and wishes to assure all tenants in Block C of Mount Suir Manor that this incident is being treated with the utmost urgency and seriousness."
