Deputy Mathews was speaking after the receiver involved in the project admitted the safety issues may never be resolved.
"From a safety and regulations standpoint, this case is beginning to look more and more like Priory Hall. What is different is that at least at the Laurels, nobody actually bought their apartment. However, all the occupiers of the apartments have been greatly discommoded. In July, residents were told that they must leave their homes in order to resolve safety issues because the building did not comply with fire regulations. They were assured the necessary corrective work would be completed in three months, but now they have been left stranded in fresh uncertainty.
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"Residents at the Laurels have been told that they won’t be able to return to their homes for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, the receiver has admitted that it’s becoming 'increasingly likely' that the work required to address the safety issues might ‘not be economically viable’. Accordingly, the receiver whose primary duties and responsibilities are to the Bank, has taken a decision to sell the entire apartment block in its present condition.
"This means that further stress and anxiety has been heaped on tenants, who are completely blameless in this entire situation. Through no fault of their own, they have had to uproot themselves and find new permanent accommodation; the cost of which is only covered up until November 16th. Where will they be left then?
"This should never have been allowed to happen. The shabby standard of some of the construction in this country during the boom period is shameful. Cutting corners on safety standards is just not acceptable."
(CD)
