Rialto Protesters Block Worker's Access to National Children's Hospital Site
All Q102 News
Monday, October 19th, 2020
By Mike Gilmore
@MikeGilmore08
Protesters gathered at the Rialto Street entrance to the building site to block access to workers in the early hours of Monday morning.
Protesters rose bright and early this morning to form a picket line at the Rialto Street entrance to the National Children's Hospital site.
They blocked entry to workers arriving at 5:30am, protesting over the increased level of disruption in their area due to the build.
Construction company BAM recently suggested extending the working hours at the site, prompting unease among locals that an existing problem will go from bad to worse.
They say their streets are frequently used as a toilet or changing room for workers at the site.
Residents claim that they're streets are also being made unsafe by BAM's lack of action on the issue, with limited footpath space due to cars illegally parking in the area.
Waste and noise are said to have added to the disruption of the their daily lives.
They're demanding action be taken on the issues above or they'll continue their protests at the Rialto Street gates to the site.
Local rep. Tina McVeigh attended this morning's demonstration, she describes the unease among locals.
"The idea that the hours would be extended midweek, in some cases late into the night, and at the weekends as well is really unsettling for the residents who area already feeling the strain at this stage.
"One woman who got in contact with me today is an audio producer who works from home.
"She says there are days where she can't work because the noise levels are so high."