Alleged trespassers "demanded €10,000 per caravan" to leave business park, High Court told

A fund-appointed receiver has initiated High Court proceedings at the N5 Business Park in Moneen, Castlebar, Co Mayo, seeking the removal of alleged trespassers. Ken Fennell, an insolvency practitioner with Deloitte, brought the action against persons of unknown identity believed to be members of the Irish Travelling Community. The receiver claims caravans have occupied the site intermittently since his appointment, and that peaceful resolution attempts have failed. Counsel outlined concerns regarding health and safety risks, damage to infrastructure including illegal water main access, and burning of rubbish on the property. The alleged trespassers reportedly demanded €10,000 per caravan to vacate the park and acted in a threatening manner towards the receiver's agents. The receiver seeks orders for vacation and cessation of trespass to facilitate the sale of the business park, which comprises commercial units and development land. A Garda operation conducted in 2017 did not resolve the matter. Ms Justice Caroline Costello granted permission to serve short notice on an ex-parte basis and adjourned proceedings for one week.