Tensions rise at water metering protest in Togher

Tensions are rising at a Togher housing estate this morning as residents stand their ground as they continue with their protest preventing Irish Water workers from installing water metres. Residents of Ashbrook Heights in Lehenaghmore and Elmvale in Wilton formed emergency blockades this morning as they claim Irish Water attempted to gain access to their estates just before dawn. Gardaí were called to Ashbrook Heights shortly afterwards due to a resulting stand off as Irish Water workers attempted to start metering work with the residents standing outside their homes blocking their shores.. Irish Water says it recognises the right to protest but it has to maintain the safety of the staff, public and the site of work. Ashbrook Heights resident Suzanne O'Flynn told the Neil Prendeville Show that the atmosphere is "hot and heavy" in the estate this morning and she outlined an incident with an Irish Water van and residents this morning Press PLAY button above to listen to the audio

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