Protesters block Coolock migrant housing development access

Protesters are blocking access to a site in Coolock, Dublin, which is intended for housing international protection applicants. The High Court heard that the developers, Townbe Unlimited Company, are unable to begin construction due to the ongoing protests. High Court Justice Richard Humphreys set a date for a hearing in June concerning motions intended to stop the development. These motions were filed by local residents Melissa Kelly, Amanda Farrelly, and Alan Croghan, who are against the plans for the old Crown Paints warehouse on Malahide Road. Last October, Justice David Holland denied an application for an injunction to stop the project. He criticized claims made by the applicants as "dangerously provocative" and emphasized that the High Court is not a platform for public protests. The protests last summer included violence and unrest, which raised concerns about the development. During the recent court session, Bernard Dunleavy, representing the developers, confirmed they still cannot access the property due to the presence of protesters, which has delayed their work. The applicants have also filed motions to challenge the earlier ruling by Justice Holland. They claim the court was misled about the developer's plans for the warehouse roof. The court has scheduled more hearings for June to discuss the strike-out motions, while other motions will be postponed until then.