Laois council reply called 'greatest load of rubbish'

A councillor has slammed Laois County Council over a delay to cutting trees at a house over funding.

Cllr Ben Brennan, Independent, was irate with officials after he tabled a motion at a recent meeting in the Council’s HQ in Portlaoise.

Cllr Brennan, tabled a motion calling on the local authority to remove the trees from the Council boundary fence at the Cross on the R430 as they are causing dampness to the house next door.

Trevor Hennessy, Acting Senior Engineer, Housing replied in writing.

“The Housing Department will carry out a site investigation and subject to funding being made available a quote for the removal of these trees will be obtained,” he said.

Cllr Brennan was not pleased that the work would only be done if money is found.

“That’s the greatest load of rubbish I’ve heard in my life,” he said.

He claimed that council staff and tree surgeons have visited the site and know what the problems are. He said promises were made that the work would be done as outlined in the motion.

Apart from the damp, he said tarmac has been damaged by roots. He also warned about the danger the trees posed to the residence in a storm.

“What are we getting a rubbish of an answer I’m not accepting that whatsoever. I want that done, end of story,” he insisted.

Responding in person, to Cllr Brennan, Mr Gerry Murphy, Director of Finances, committed to getting a quote for the work.

The issue was raised at the Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District meeting held in Portlaoise recently.