Councillors clash over closed skateboard park in Tipperary

A row erupted at last week's sitting of the Thurles-Templemore Municipal District Council over the closed skateboard park.

Cllr Jim Ryan said the skateboard park in Thurles has been closed now for more than 12 months due to a lack of funding for repairs.

He suggested writing to the Minister for Finance Jack Chambers for a portion of the Apple tax money to fix and reopen the skateboard park.

"It is very unfair to the young people of Thurles," said Cllr Ryan.

Cllr Ryan also said that although the Minister visited Thurles recently, he "did not have the decency to meet with councillors.”

Several councillors and the Cathaoirleach took issue with Cllr Ryan's comments and suggestions. Cllr Michael Smith said they were not writing to the Minister for money for a skateboard park.

Several councillors expressed their agreement. Cllr Ryan took issue with the tone of the remarks calling an "absolute disgrace" that a proposal from a councillor would be ridiculed.

He said he "did not see the harm" in writing to the Minister if the district was struggling to find the money to repair the amenity.

Cllr Kay Cahill-Skehan called on everyone to work together.

And the Cathaoirleach Cllr Smith called for "respect" as he attempted to move which resulting the two councillors shouting over one another.

District Administrator Sharon Scully said she agreed that it is a shame the skateboard park is closed for so long.

But she said they are meet the contractor shortly and when they do, they will know how much the repairs will cost. Then, they can apply for funding.

Ms Scully said the Cllr Ryan:

"You are right, there is lots of funding and will find a stream eventually, said Ms Scully.

Ms Scully also confirmed that they now have a quote for the work needed on the Source Arts Centre carpark and will now seek a budget to complete the repairs.

The carpark has also been closed for a year due to fire damage.