Whitmore Hears The Tigernutters’ Call

The writing’s on the sign… Charlesland FRI10JULY26

atest press release from Jennifer Whitmore TD, issued on Friday, July 10th 2026…

Social Democrats TD for Wicklow, Jennifer Whitmore, has called on the Government to provide dedicated capital funding for community infrastructure following her attendance at a community protest in Charlesland today over the potential loss of a Greystones Family Resource Centre premise.

Deputy Whitmore joined local residents, service users and community members at the protest at Charlesland Playground, where many spoke about the vital role that the Family Resource Centre has played in their lives and the devastating impact its loss would have on the community.

“The strength of feeling at today’s protest was clear. I met with so many people who rely on the Family Resource Centre and who spoke about what an enormous loss this space would be for them, their families and the wider community,” said Deputy Whitmore.

“The Greystones Family Resource Centre has provided an invaluable service for years, supporting parents, older people, children, carers and many others and the potential loss of this dedicated community space would be a huge setback.”

Deputy Whitmore said the situation demonstrates a much wider problem across Wicklow, where rapid population growth has not been matched by investment in community infrastructure.

“This is not an isolated issue. Across Wicklow, we continue to see housing developments expanding without the community facilities needed to support growing populations. Community spaces should not be viewed as an optional extra, they are essential infrastructure that helps tackle isolation, supports families and builds stronger, healthier communities.” said Deputy Whitmore.

“I am calling on the Government to provide dedicated capital funding for community buildings so that organisations like the Greystones Family Resource Centre can have secure, permanent homes.

“Charities and community groups should not be left vulnerable to rising commercial rents when they are delivering services that benefit the entire community.”

Deputy Whitmore said she will continue to work with local groups, Wicklow County Council and Government to ensure that adequate community infrastructure is delivered alongside housing growth throughout the county.