Award-winning journalist Rodney Edwards has announced an investigation into the defective concrete blocks scandal for a new book, to be released next year.
Edwards, from Fermanagh, is the editor of The Impartial Reporter and previously spent more than a decade investigating historic child sex abuse in his home county during The Troubles.
Now, Edwards is delving into the heart of the housing controversy to “unravel the intricate web of regulatory oversights and institutional failures that have left thousands of families shattered and homes uninhabitable.”
The author is urging people to share their stories, in confidence, as he studies the devastating impact of the crisis affecting nearly 7,000 families and costing the Irish government more than €3.2 billion in compensation.
From the initial dismissals of cracks to the escalation of damages and subsequent legal battles, Edwards’ book is set to not only shed light on the human toll of those caught in the crossfire, but also seeks answers from key stakeholders, explores the science and questions where one of the biggest housing issues in a generation leaves Ireland socially, economically and politically.
Edwards says “I’m very excited about joining The Lilliput Press, one of Ireland’s most prestigious and respected publishing houses. We both feel strongly about exploring social injustices and I’m looking forward to having the freedom to investigate one of the biggest housing scandals in Ireland. There are thousands of people impacted by defective blocks – and a lack of accountability – and this will be their story.”