Leitrim County Council rejects cattle grid proposal

An issue of contention was discussed during a meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District regarding the implementation of a cattle grid in Aughavohill, Kinlough.

Cllr Pádraig Fallon advocated for the installation of the grid in the interest of road safety.

“This is probably the fourth time over a number of years I’ve put this motion down.

“I’ve seen locations in Donegal, Kerry and other counties where this is done.

“To say I’m disappointed with the reply is an understatement because for me, this is all about the will to do,” Cllr Fallon said.

A response from Leitrim County Council stated that they will not be installing a cattle grid as it would introduce a hazard for public road users. 

The reply also said that livestock is the responsibility of the owner.

“There is no other argument here because these other locations have walkers and cyclists going to them and I believe there is an onus.

“Livestock are going down the mountain and are coming onto a regional road. While some of them may not have been reported, there have been collisions there and there have been accidents with those livestock.

“I would ask the local authority to seriously reconsider this and a review.”

Proposed bus service could boost tourism and connectivity in Leitrim and Sligo

Councillors James Gilmartin and Felim Gurn proposed motions at a Manorhamilton MD meeting, emphasising the benefits of a bus service from Leitrim to Glencar Waterfall.

Cllr Warnock supported the motion, arguing that while the farmer may be held responsible for incidents involving sheep on the road, it's very challenging for the farmer to manage or prevent these incidents due to the large number of sheep and the difficulty in controlling them.

“I can’t understand why something can’t be done. It’s a narrow road and there’s no getting away from livestock if they’re on the road,” Cllr Warnock said.

Cllr Gilmartin also expressed his support for the motion, saying, “We need to base this practise on where it’s done elsewhere in the country.”

Cllr Warnock further noted that it’s not as simple as putting up a fence due to the size of the land involved, the presence of cyclists, motorists and people using the bog.

He suggested inviting Rob Wheeldon from the National Parks and Wildlife Service to advise the MD on what actions are best.

The cattle grids referenced in Cllr Fallon’s motion are commonly found throughout County Donegal.

Cllr Bohan also suggested that Leitrim County Council consult with Donegal County Council to review their procedures, which will be done to advance the issue.

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