‘Mica protest could be last’
AN UPCOMING protest by mica homeowners should be the last time they feel the need to demonstrate, Housing
Minister Darragh O’Brien has said.
Mr O’Brien told the Dail yesterday he will bring a proposal to Government in the coming weeks on a revised compensation scheme for homeowners.
Campaigners want 100 per cent redress for homeowners whose properties were built using defective bricks containing excessive amounts of the mineral mica in Donegal, Mayo and other counties.
Tragedy
A draft report, compiled by a working group set up by Mr O’Brien, did not recommend 100 per cent redress, as demanded by campaigners.
Homeowners will again travel to Dublin tomorrow to continue their campaign.
Responding to questions from Sinn Fein’s Padraig Mac Lochlainn, a Donegal TD, the minister said he understands the “tragedy” facing homeowners affected my mica.
“We’re committed to enhancing this scheme and progress has been made on it,” he said. “I’m not going to delay... we’re close to bringing forward quite significant enhancements.”
A FINAL cuddle with her ■
human best friend of 14 years comforts this mountain gorilla as she breathes her last.
Andre Bauma held great ape Ndakasi as she lay her head on his chest.
It mirrored how the pair ■
began their extraordinary bond at Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Ndakasi was only two months old when she was found clinging to the body of her mother who had been killed by militia.
Refuge worker Andre kept her warm and alive that first night by clutching her to his chest. Andre (49) said: “It was a privilege to support and care for such a loving creature.”