KCC calls on farmers and machine operators to assist clearing of snow in Kildare

Kildare County Council have issued their latest statement on the ongoing severe weather event, calling on farmers and machine operators to lend a hand as they bid to clear roads across the county.

The council's Crisis Management Team met once again this afternoon, and they have said that Rathangan is one area that is particularly badly affected by the ice and snow tonight. The north of the county is also an area that the council will be focusing on as many roads remain impassable up there.

18 Kildare County Council trucks, 30 tractor powered ploughs a number of JCB’s and other machines have been attempting to clear the regional roads and other strategic routes throughout Kildare since first light this morning. Many roads are still treacherous however salting will commence, where possible, at around 8pm this evening and there will possibly be a further run later in the night, depending on temperatures.

Defence Forces staff in conjunction with Kildare County Council staff are attempting to clear footpaths and entrances leading to critical services such as the hospitals.

Where possible the Fire Service and Civil Defence are attempting to assist An Garda Siochana, the Health Services and other care services to deal with emergency situations.

Water Services continue to monitor the water infrastructure in Kildare.

The public are urged to conserve water supplies due to the high demand being experienced at present.