23rd March 2002

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Taoiseach's claim of ``total community support for Santry project'' misleading

Sinn Fein's candidate for Dublin North West, Councillor Dessie Ellis, has described the Taoiseach's claim that there was ``total support'' for the rezoning of Santry Woods as misleading and a ``distortion of reality''.

Councillor Ellis said:

``The Taoiseach's claim that there was ``total support'' for the rezoning of Santry Woods is a distortion of reality and is indicative of Fianna Fails attitude to the democratic will of local communities. It is impossible to believe that Bertie Ahern was not aware of the massive local campaign to have Santry Woods protected and saved from land speculators. Two groups, the Save Santry Woods Action Group and Santry Community Association both vigourously fought campaigns to have these woods protected. And I myself campaigned for their retention during the last local elections.

``The Taoiseach is being very disingenious on this matter. It is time he reflected on the matter. Santry Woods were rezoned for development against the wishes of the local community because financial considerations came first. He should retract his statement and apologise to the people who campaigned for the retention of Santry Woods for this slur.''

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