A Councillor has described his frustration in dealing with the TII (formerly the NRA) when it comes to getting any answers about the N71 in West Cork.
By Kieran O’Mahony
A COUNCILLOR has described his frustration in dealing with the TII (formerly the NRA) when it comes to getting any answers about the N71 in West Cork.
Cllr Paul Hayes (SF) was responding to a motion raised by both Cllr Michael Collins and Cllr Mary Hegarty.
They called on TII to put in place immediate safety measure at the Sailing Club on the N71 in Bantry at the Abbey, to ensure the safety of members and children crossing the roadway.
Cllr Hayes said that the members of Bantry Sailing Club have to be commended for providing such a great facility for youngsters.
‘I can understand their frustration in dealing with TII, they’re like a black hole of space in that you get nothing back,’ said Cllr Hayes.
Cllr Mary Hegarty (FG) said this has been an ongoing issue for some time and pointed out that every representation has been made before on it.
‘We’re promoting tourism and sailing in the region and this club has already increased its numbers. Members also voiced their concerns at a recent meeting and it’s an issue of safety for everyone, especially children,’ said Cllr Hegarty.
‘After exhaustive measures in the past, something has to be done to slow down traffic. We’ve also asked the gardaí and hopefully something can be done for the season ahead.’
Cllr Michael Collins (Ind) said it is a health and safety issue as many young children are crossing the road and it’s been going on for years.
‘We need to push this a little further as it’s an urgent issue and the TII have yet to come back with a report on this,’ said Cllr Collins.
Tony Mullane, a Council official, said that NRA had put in an uncontrolled crossing a few years ago but that Cork County Council will review the situation and would put in further safety measures in the area.
Cllr Hegarty said she couldn’t emphasise enough the ‘sense of urgency’ about this problem and that members of the club, along with parents, want something done now.
Cllr Michael Collins said it would be a good idea for both the Council and TII to sit down with club members and go through all possible measures.
‘We don’t want to wait until there’s a serious accident there,’ said Cllr Collins.
