Load of silage fell into big Laois river after collapse
Farmer fixed bank at own cost
A tractor load of silage fell into the River Barrow due to the collapse of a bank the repair of which cost a local farmer thousands of euro, according to public representatives who believe action is needed.
Cllr Seamus McDonald, Fianna Fáil, referenced this year’s incident after he tabled a motion at a meeting with Laois County Council officials.
He called for a survey of the River Barrow bank downstream at Clonduff close to the Laois Offaly border in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. He said the council was aware of the incident which saw “an entire load of silage overturn into the river” as it was being towed by a farmer.
“The entire river bank collapsed. I would not like to see it happen again…The farmer repaired the bank at a huge cost. It cost thousands,” he said.
Edmond Kenny, District Engineer, replied in writing. “In the New Year, when water levels have rescinded enough, the River Barrow at Clonduff will be Inspected,” he said.
The issue was highlighted at a recent meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District.