'Ignorant idiots' blamed as vandalism delays Laois playground opening for second time

The planned opening of the newly redeveloped Portarlington Playground has been delayed for a second time due to vandalism. 

Local Independent Cllr Aidan Mullins said the Laois County Council had hoped to open the playground in Portarlington this week.

However, due to the vandalism of a platform in the tower unit on the night of Monday, April 14 the opening has been postponed until the replacement part arrives from the manufacturer in Europe, Cllr Mullins said in an online post.

“Additionally both contractor teams working on the site this week have been abused and threatened by those ignorant idiots attempting to enter the site while works were in progress. The matter has been reported to the Gardaí, “ said Cllr Mullins. 

Speaking to the Leinster Express/Laois Live,  Cllr Mullins said "it is just sad that that is what it's come to. What is in their head?"

Cllr Mullins said workers were verbally abused and threatened when they told people not to enter the site while work was ongoing. 

He said a safety inspection has now been provisionally booked for this coming Wednesday, April 23.  

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“If all is in order and the replacement part has arrived, the playground will be opened on 23rd April.

The planting of the perennial plants in the playground has to be completed and hopefully will not be removed, “he said