Ballybofey pensioners still trapped in their own homes

Residents who live in a 70-year-old housing estate in Ballybofey, have spoken of their horror as huge potholes leave them trapped in their own homes and risk “serious injury”.

They claim it is particularly bad for those with mobility issues or difficulty walking and are pleading with Donegal County Council to sort it out before someone gets seriously injured.

“It's an absolute nightmare for all of us but trying to dodge the potholes so as not to break a spring in our cars. Even the bin men with their big lorries are not keen to come down this lane. We're only talking about 100 yards that need repair,” said residents' association spokesman Anthony Gillespie.

He added Ard McCarron, which is situated on Donegal Road will be 70 years old next year and the lane has been used by residents and the council during that time.
“Now we're being told the council still has to take it over. What have we all been doing during this time, have we been trespassing?”

Mr Gilllespie added a similar lane at the other side of the estate was tarred last year and wanted to know why the same could not be done at this side.

“But out hearts go out to pensioners Bridget and James Murray in particular. James, who is 83, suffered a stroke when he was 54 and has been confined to a wheelchair for the past 28 years.“
He and Bridget now feel they are being confined to their home because of the neglect of the back lanes which served all the homes in the area.

“James cannot get out his front door because it is too narrow. The back lane is his only route but it's now far too dangerous. He is basically a prisoner because of the potholes.

“The issue was highlighted many times but the council has yet to officially reply to any of our concerns,” he added

Representations made by Pearse Doherty TD reveal even today this back lane is not on the council's road schedule and it could not repair it until it was taken over by the council.

The council's response to the TD added that a new fund was coming on stream this year but even so there was no guarantee Ard McCarron would fit the criteria.

The reply also added: “Once the priority has been agreed I can let you know if it was successful for 2022 or possibly a future year.”

Mr Gillespie said residents were aghast at this.

“Does that mean the health and safety of pensioners who use this road are dependent on whether it is suitable for 100 yards worth of work? It's hard to believe potholes trump pensioners!