Call for electronic noticeboard at scene of Waterford fire amid elderly population
Concerns have been raised over potential health risks for residents of Tycor in Waterford city
A call has been made for an electronic noticeboard to be installed in the vicinity of the Old Jute Factory in Waterford city, which was severely damaged in a fire last weekend.
The fire broke out in the Tycor area on Saturday evening and took several hours to bring under control.
Health concerns have since been raised due to the presence of asbestos-containing materials in the fire-damaged structure and debris.
Sinn Féin councillor Jim Griffin made the suggestion at the May plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council.
Cllr Griffin said: “Just briefly on Tycor, if it is possible, because it’s such an elderly population up there, would it be something we would take heed of in getting an electronic noticeboard?
“[It would] get notices out to those elderly people that are neither on Facebook or listening to the radio.
“Their sons or their daughters or their grandchildren might go up to the library or might hear an update on day to day changes, if there are rules around the Tycor place now or what is happening in the vicinity.”
In response, Director of Services Seamus De Faoite outlined the communication methods the council has used in the aftermath of the fire.
Mr De Faoite said: “I suppose the one thing that we have realised since last Sunday morning is getting communications out to the public is key here.
“Again, what we did and what we continue to do is try to get the message out there. We’re using our social media, we’re also conscious of that part of the town and that there are old people up there who haven’t got access to social media.
“So as part of that, we have ensured that we have knocked door to door to actual notices as well.”
However, he went on to express doubt as to whether an electronic noticeboard would be an effective way of getting the council’s message across.
“The one thing about a big noticeboard, it’s just a lot of information that we’re trying to get across.
“We want to be clear and accurate in what we’re saying to people. To be honest, to have a big noticeboard, it mightn't get all the message across but look, we’re open to looking at all options.”
Air monitoring conducted in the immediate aftermath of the fire did not detect elevated asbestos fibre concentrations in the air. However, monitoring will continue over the coming days.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been informed of the situation and the council said it will continue to work with the HSE.
Members of the public are advised to avoid the area as operations continue and stay out of smoke.
If local residents smell smoke, they are advised to close all windows, doors and vents and stay indoors.
If residents think they are experiencing health effects, they are advised to seek medical attention.
Those with respiratory or heart disease should take extra precautions to avoid smoke. Those in the immediate vicinity should avoid exercising outdoors.