Abwood – Why I voted to uphold the Planning Laws

· Intimidation. A number of local residents told me that they had felt intimidated by people connected with Abwood. This is totally unacceptable to me. 

· Move It. Abwood should have moved to a legal site after the first Court case in 2004, which it lost. People connected to the company had sites in Tullow and I think Glenealy. I understand it is now moving to Tullow, the Glenealy site may have been sold. 

· This was the greatest breach of Planning Laws in Wicklow. How could Councillors ask people to apply for permission for small extensions if we allowed such a major breach? 

· Few Jobs, if any, Lost. In my view there were less than 15 local people employed and most will move to the new site. I found it very difficult to find out correct facts from the Company. Many facts stated by Abwood were found to be wrong by the Courts.

Given the above facts, I was very disappointed that my fellow Councillor, George Jones voted for Abwood and has circulated leaflets criticising those who were against.

Having taken this difficult, but principled, stand of voting against Abwood’s Planning Permission I would ask for your support with a No. 1 Vote.

Bord Pleanala subsequently agreed with this decision. Someone is now putting up anonymous posters giving a distorted view. If you have queries about this or other issues please contact me.