‘Litigious nature of society’ rules out Sligo community groups being supplied with grit during icy spells

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

Sligo County Council Chief Executive, Martin Lydon has dismissed calls for the local authority to provide community groups with grit to alleviate dangerous conditions brought about by freezing conditions.

Mr Lydon briefly addressed the February meeting of Sligo County Council during a debate in relation to a motion proposed by Cllr Arthur Gibbons seeking that the Roads Department would bring forward a plan of action to supply communities on request, with grit or other alternative material to alleviate dangerous conditions brought about during frosty weather.

Cllr Gibbons said, “Even if sand was provided, people could throw a few shovels on the footpaths.”

The motion was supported by Cllr Thomas Walsh who said if bunkers could be provided in estates this would also be helpful.

At this point in the debate Mr Lydon interjected saying, “We live in a very litigious society.” He added, “We are not going to be in a position to give community groups sand or grit.”

In response Cllr Gibbons remarked, “I understand where you are coming from but this motion will keep coming up.”

Cllr Dara Mulvey was also in favour of the motion noting that local authorities in Cork, Leitrim and Cavan, “All offer something.”

Cllr Mulvey added, “Communities are willing to do it themselves if the Council provides the salt.”

Cllr Donal Gilroy offered a different perspective when he commented, “I bought five bags out of my pocket for someone who phoned me. There is nothing stopping any community group buying bins and stocking them.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.