Derry MLA demands ‘common sense’ review of Department’s ‘restrictive’ grit bin criteria

SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan has called on the Minister for Infrastructure, Liz Kimmins to review the Department for Infrastructure’s (DfI) current criteria for salt bin provision and refilling, which he deemed unnecessarily restrictive.

The MLA for Foyle said: “It has come to my attention that DfI are only replenishing grit bins that have been individually reported as empty. That approach simply does not make sense. For example, in notoriously steep estates like Cornshell Fields, workers are being sent out to refill a single reported bin even though several others in the same area may also be empty. Crews are then instructed to move on to another estate and repeat the process.

“This is completely inefficient and wastes the valuable time of hard working DfI Roads staff.

“Ahead of the recent wintry conditions, I contacted the Minister seeking assurances that there would be adequate gritting provision and salt boxes in place across the Foyle constituency. I was told that all requests which had passed assessment had been fulfilled. However, that does not reflect the reality on the ground. I am aware of areas that meet the criteria but are still waiting on boxes being installed.

“Improving grit box provision would not only make communities safer but would also ease pressure on frontline staff. Ensuring grit boxes are properly installed and routinely checked would significantly improve safety for residents and reduce the number of call-outs and requests faced by DfI Roads staff, who have been working tirelessly and in extremely challenging conditions to keep roads passable.

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“This is in no way a criticism of workers who are operating within a restrictive framework. I will continue to press the Minister for a full review of grit box criteria and a more sensible, proactive approach to refilling bins, one that prioritises safety and common sense.”