'Urgent' need for safety improvements on Kilkenny roads highlighted
“These are issues that affect local families, sports clubs, parishioners and commuters every day”
Carlow-Kilkenny TD and Leas Ceann Comhairle John McGuinness has welcomed the ‘commitment’ from Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Seán Canney TD, to raise serious road safety concerns at both the ‘dangerous’ Danesfort N10 junction and the Foulkstown/Kilkenny Rugby Club area with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and Kilkenny County Council.
Minister Canney, who has responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, was visiting Kilkenny privately when Deputy McGuinness, accompanied by local Fianna Fáil Councillor for Callan/Thomastown Municipal District and Leas Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Deirdre Cullen, took the opportunity to bring him to both locations to outline the urgent need for safety improvements.
Deputy McGuinness said he appreciated the Minister taking the time to see the issues first-hand.
"The Danesfort junction has been the source of serious concern for years, with high-speed traffic creating a dangerous situation for motorists, pedestrians, those using the facilities at Danesfort GAA and local families,” he said.
“I also highlighted the need for improved road safety measures at Foulkstown, including enhanced public lighting and safer access to Kilkenny Rugby Club, Foulkstown Church and the adjoining graveyard. I welcome Minister Canney's commitment to raise these matters directly with TII and Kilkenny County Council.”
Councillor Deirdre Cullen said local people have repeatedly highlighted the dangers and deserve to see action.
"I was pleased to join Minister Canney and Deputy McGuinness during the visit to explain the reality on the ground,” she said.
“These are issues that affect local families, sports clubs, parishioners and commuters every day. We need practical safety improvements before a tragedy occurs, and I welcome the Minister's willingness to engage directly with the relevant authorities.”
Deputy McGuinness concluded by thanking Minister Canney for his positive engagement and said he would continue working with the Minister, TII and Kilkenny County Council to ensure both locations receive the priority attention they require.
"Road safety must always come first,” he concluded. “These are genuine concerns raised by local communities, and I will continue to press for the improvements needed to make these roads safer for everyone.”