Limerick City Council last night reaffirmed its commitment to rehousing the family of two young arson attack victims before Christmas.
This follows public opposition from residents of a private housing estate, who have signed a petition objecting to Millie (6) and Gavin (4) Murray's family moving into the estate.
The brother and sister are still recovering from serious injuries they suffered in a petrol bomb attack outside their Moyross home last September.
The council, whom it's understood recently identified a house suitable for the family's special needs, received a petition from residents opposed to the local authority buying a house for the Murray family in the Clonile Estate on the Old Cratloe Road.
Callers to a local radio station yesterday insisted it was "fear and not prejudice" that led them to signing the petition. They say they are afraid the house will be targeted. One caller to the programme said he would not allow his children outside to play if the Murrays arrived. Residents say they feel huge sympathy for the family but are frightened by what might happen next.
The council has not confirmed if it has purchased a new home for the Murray family, but a spokesman last night insisted the family will be rehoused before Christmas: "The city council is particularly concerned about the welfare of the children involved in this case, and will continue to secure suitable accommodation for this family before Christmas."
Meanwhile, Gavin's and Millie's mother, Sheila Murray, is said to be extremely saddened by the petition lodged by residents.
Ms Murray has been dividing her time between Limerick and Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin, Dublin, since the petrol bomb attack on her son and daughter on September 10th last.