Councillor asks who is responsible for vegetation blocking River Finn at Clady?

Substantial vegetation growing on the Donegal side of the Clady Bridge is an attraction the River Finn could do without, according to Castlefin councillor, Gary Doherty.

He raised concerns about the eyesore at the recent meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District during a discussion on a progress report on the Castlefin Flood Relief Scheme.

He said as the overgrowth lay on the Republic of Ireland's side of the River Finn it was time for Donegal County Council to take responsibility for clearing it up.

Cllr Doherty pointed out that the current hot spell and drought had exposed the ongoing problem at this cross-border crossing point.

“Every time you cross that bridge whether the river is high or low you can see that big island in the middle of the river there. It is something that we have raised before and the possibility of getting it removed. It doesn't help when the river is in flood or the movement of the water down the valley.”

He said when he asked about this issue a number of years ago he was told the Rivers Agency on the northern side had cleaned out or dredged their side of the river.

“That's why you now only see the vegetation on the Donegal side. I have asked numerous times for this part to be cleared but it has never been done. I don't know if it's the case that nobody knows who has the ultimate responsibility for clearing it out but it’s certainly something I would like to see removed because it serves no purpose whatsoever," he added.

Cllr Doherty also welcomed the fact that they were now at the end of Stage 1 of the Castlefin Flood Relief Scheme and were looking forward to the next stage, planning. 

He asked if the official knew how long they would have to wait for planning permission.

“Are we at the mercy of An Bord Pleanála and we all know of the difficulties it has at the moment and how long it is taking for decision to go through. 

“I wouldn't like to think of the delays  that could be there  with the project the size of the Flood Relief Scheme.”

The meeting heard that the matter would be investigated and a report would be brought back to the next municipal district meeting.

“I will also mention the problem of the island at Clady Bridge to the Flood Relief team but I am not ultimately sure who is responsible for it. I will see if we can highlight the issue and find out if there is anything we can do about it, said Paul Gallagher from the council’s environment section.