Vandalism, under age drinking, fires, and the constant risk of serious accident has made Merlin Castle a dangerous place, and an issue that urgently needs to be addressed by the Galway City Council.
This is the view of Independent Galway city councillor Terry O’Flaherty, who has tabled a notice of motion for the next city council meeting “to urgently activate” funding set aside in the 2015 budget towards the restoration of the castle, located in Merlin Park. She is calling for proper fencing to prevent any potential accidents and to prevent further damage to the castle due to on-going vandalism.
Cllr O’Flaherty said she is “receiving daily complaints” from residents, concerned about “youths consuming alcohol” in the area, getting access to the castle, and the overall risk of an accident occurring - despite increased Garda patrols in the area. Some residents have witnessed fires blaze in front of the castle and both the fire brigade and the Gardaí were recently called to attend to these fires.
“The castle is in very bad state of repair and deteriorating rapidly due to wanton vandalism and is a haven for antisocial behaviour and is also a litter black spot,” said Cllr O’Flaherty. "There’s an onus on the city council to make this castle safe as safety is of paramount importance.
