Exposed electrical wires and evidence of drug use are the reasons behind the continued closure of the public toilets at Lyster Square in Portlaoise.
The toilets have remained closed for several weeks over the busy summer period.
Laois County Council did not respond to requests for information why the toilets are closed. The council also declined to comment on when the toilets will reopen.
However, LaoisToday has learned that a quote from a contractor is being waited on in relation to the work required to make the electrical wires safe.
Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley was told by council officials that the toilets were closed on health and safety grounds.
This was on account of the electrical issue, as well as concerns over drug use at the location.
She believes the toilets have been closed since June.
“I did query why the toilets were closed and was told it was on health and safety grounds, as there were naked wires hanging down,” she said.
“There was also evidence that drug use had been taking place in the toilets,” she said.
She was informed some weeks back that a survey was to be done on the cost of electrical repairs.
“I totally agree it has to be closed when there are health and safety concerns,” she said.
Concern
“My concern is that this will be used as an excuse not to reopen the toilets,” she said.
The matter is expected to be discussed when the council returns after its summer break in September.
Any costs involved with proposed works will most likely also be brought before the council for approval.
A number of complaints were made to Cllr Dwane Stanley from members of the public over the toilets remaining closed.
She said while there may be difficulties involved with provision of public toilets, it was not ideal to have them closed, particularly during summer months, when events such as the Fort Festival were held.
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