New sign imminent as drivers experience frightening Kilkenny deer encounters
A new warning sign is on the way for a Kilkenny road where motorists have reported encountering large deer in the middle of the carriageway with little warning.
A new warning sign is on the way for a Kilkenny road where motorists have reported encountering large deer in the middle of the carriageway with little warning.
The upgrade to signage on the R693 Freshford to Johnstown Road at Kilrush is due to begin imminently, after councillors raised concerns that the existing signs are difficult for drivers to see.
Raising a motion on the matter at the most recent sitting of the Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr Michael McCarthy argued it was ‘imperative’ that new, clearly visible deer signage be erected on the R693 Freshford to Johnstown Road at Kilrush ‘as soon as possible’.
Cllr McCarthy acknowledged the presence of signs on the road at present but argued they are very hard to see for drivers.
Gardaí previously issued a warning to motorists in Kilkenny to be on the lookout for stags on the county’s roads as rutting season reaches its peak.
“Be especially careful on roads that pass near woodlands as the deer might pass in front of you without warning,” gardaí noted.
Drivers have also been urged to reduce their speed and ensure they have enough time and distance to react to an unexpected hazard.
Safety fears for both deer and motorists have not only been consigned to the R693 in recent years.
There were several cases of near misses on the Port Road (N29) in South Kilkenny in recent times, with reports relating to deer sightings and near misses appeared to be rising.
According to the Irish Deer Society, this time of year can be ‘potentially hazardous’
“The deer rutting season, typically from September to November, is a spectacular but potentially hazardous time in Ireland’s countryside. Male deer become highly territorial and aggressive, especially during mating displays.”
Chairperson of the Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick, concurred with his Fianna Fáil colleague, revealing that while travelling the road he had encountered five ‘big deers’ in the middle of the road, and only spotted them at ‘the last minute’.
Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh has been a vocal advocate for the erection of new deer signage on the local stretch of road, stating, “I think when people are driving in such areas, stay well back from the car in front in case somebody has to stop.”
Area Engineer, Paraic Butler, provided an update to members, noting that a contractor has been secured and upgrade works on the new signage are due to begin imminently.