Shop owner remains defiant in the face of a court decision compelling her to vacate the building that houses her family and business.
In 1964 Eileen Curtin and her husband returned from England to Mallow in County Cork. With savings of £1,400 they bought 87 Davis Street where they live with their three children and run a shop. The income from the shop is invaluable for the family as Eileen Curtin's husband has inconsistent employment as a builder’s labourer.
In May 1968 Mallow Urban District Council declared 88 Davis Street dangerous and ordered its demolition. Unfortunately for the Curtin family, their property must be demolished too as both buildings depend on each other for support. When Eileen Curtin bought number 87 she had no idea that no 88 was dangerous.
When the family remained in their property, the council brought court proceedings against Eileen Curtin. In January she was ordered to vacate the building by 1 March 1969.
Eileen Curtin disagrees entirely with the court decision as 87 Davis Street has not been declared a dangerous building.
Why should we be responsible for the house next door?
Leaving the property would be a major blow to the Curtins as all their savings have been invested in it. When the building is pulled down, Eileen Curtin will have no means of income. As they have nowhere to go and not enough money to purchase another building,
We’re going to stay put for the present, we’re not going to move lest we’re thrown out.
Joe Sherlock of Mallow Urban District Council is sorry the Curtin family must leave their home and shop. He offers them a vacant house which he considers a major improvement on their present dwelling. However, it is not within the council’s remit to compensate Eileen Curtin for the loss of income from her business.
This is a very sad case and unfortunately there is nothing we can do about it.
On the advice of the Mallow town engineer, timber barriers have been put around 87 and 88 Davis Street as a protection for the public.
A 'Newsbeat’ report broadcast on 30 January 1969. The reporter is Michael Ryan.
