Apartments at centre of evictions saga sold for social housing

Residents believed the renovation works were merely an excuse to evict tenants to allow Lugus to significantly hike up prices for new tenants. The company denied this and insisted the works were required.
In a statement following the purchase yesterday, Clúid said the four blocks had undergone a multi-million euro refurbishment.
James O’Halloran, New Business Manager at Clúid, said that the purchase represents a major milestone for the association.
“These units are finished to the highest standard and will provide people in Cork City with long-term, secure homes.
“Clúid has worked with Cork City Council to deliver these units in a matter of months and we hope to begin the process of filling the units next week.

“This project shows what can be achieved when stakeholders who are committed to housing delivery work together.
"This purchase will help us in our aim of delivering 2,500 homes over three years."
Brian Geaney, Director of Services for Housing at Cork City Council, said:
“This project is another example of the council taking a pioneering role in relation to the delivery of social housing and its willingness to take a multi-faceted approach to finding solutions to housing challenges in the City."
Solidarity councillor Fiona Ryan who worked alongside residents during their campaign, also welcomed the news.
“People power has not only kept a roof over the heads of 13 families, it has opened the door to new homes,” she said.
“Huge congratulations are due to the Leeside residents.
“Evictions can be defeated by people power - that is the message that needs to go out far and wide now,” she added.
Ms Ryan said the residents' campaign forced Lugus to concede on the eviction issue in July 2018 albeit with residents forced to move to other apartments within the complex.
“Leeside could be a landmark victory for the housing movement. It shows that public housing and public ownership are key to tackling this housing crisis," said Cllr Ryan.