Nine ring buoys have been removed from Clane, County Kildare

Nine ring buoys have been removed from Clane, the Leinster Leader has been told.

The removals are a cause for concern as unannounced changes to River Liffey water levels in Clane can occur as ESB Networks generate electricity.

Commenting on the removals, Independent councillor Pádraig McEvoy said: "With over 1.2 kilometres of pathway along the River Liffey in Clane, Kildare County Council maintains emergency life saving ring buoys at key points of access and risk.

"The recent removal of nine ring buoys is unusual, but (also) a concern for the families of individuals who use the river amenities."

Cllr McEvoy, who has since been in contact with local gardaí regarding the issue, continued: "In raising general public awareness, I hope that the community in Clane will help to stop the interference with life saving equipment.

"Replacements are not free and the last thing we want to hear about is an avoidable fatality among our community due in part to missing ring buoys." 

He added that Labour Party Senator Mark Wall is due to raise a delayed bill relating to the removal of ring buoys when he will attend the Seanad later today.

It is understood that Kildare County Council has ordered replacement ring buoys and is appealing to residents in Clane to assist in maintaining the life-saving equipment without further interference.