Two pensioners from Silvertown in Athlone say they are sleeping with one eye open as they await eviction from the family home where they’ve been living for 50 years.
They are now appealing for help with new accommodation.
The family of eight, between the ages of two and 66, all live off social grants.
Anne Bailey, 64, says a relative secretly bought their mother’s house and they only found out when they were served an eviction notice earlier this year.
“We were in disbelief and went to court, only to find that she stole the papers and changed ownership,” says Anne.
“She is married with her own family, she owns a house and does not need this one, we do not understand how she could hurt us this bad. This is our only home.
“We do not have a place to go. Our things will probably just be thrown on the street.”
Her sister Maryam Minnies, 66, says they have not been on speaking terms with the relative and lost contact with her.
“She comes and goes as she pleases and she said we need to be out of our place this week. We don’t know when she is actually going to throw us out.”
The sisters both have chronic illnesses and look after a relative with Down Syndrome as well.
If you would like to assist, please call Anne at 067 395 0812 or Maryam at 073 852 5289.
The relative concerned did not respond to messages.