![](https://mm.aiircdn.com/622/5dd7a338292ed.jpg)
He's been highlighting the number of derelict buildings in the county.
A Westmeath councillor says the owners of abandoned houses should pay large fines.
Fine Gael councillor Frank McDermott says people who do not maintain their properties should pay €5,000 per year - with a hike after five years.
There are currently between ten and twelve derelict buildings in both Castlepollard and Delvin, while Clonmellon also has a large number.
Councillor McDermott says, when waiting lists for social housing are long, existing buildings shouldn't be left lying dormant: