Cork residents continue tense stand-off on water meters

A tense stand-off between Irish Water contractors and residents of a Cork housing estate who are objecting to the installation of water meters.

Several residents of Ashbrook Heights in Togher, supported by protestors, have halted Irish Water's first attempt to install water meters in the estate since a blockade was mounted at the estate entrance over a week ago.

One resident, John O'Donovan, claims he was struck by a safety barrier as it was being moved, injuring his leg and back.

He said he fell to the ground and suffered a panic attack.

The contractors arrived on site at 6.30am and began to set up their safety barriers.

But when protestors began to interfere with the work areas, gardaí were called. They have since left.

The protestors are still blocking the work.

The stand-off is continuing.