Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) have drawn the ire of a Laois County Councillor this week.
Speaking at the February meeting of the Portlaoise Municipal District, Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald called on the TII to visit the town to see the scale of the problem.
“I can’t understand where health and safety comes into this – it’s absolutely crazy where the TII are putting these signs,” Cllr Fitzgerald said.
The matter arose when the Fianna Fáil Cllr called for the County Council to “insist on a policy of no road signs on the ground at junctions or roundabouts.”
In response, Mr Paul McLoughlin, Senior Engineer said:
“The Department of Transport’s Traffic Signs Manual sets out the requirements for the design, placing and mounting heights of various types of road signage across the road network.
“Safety is of paramount importance when choosing sign positions and mounting heights.
“A member of staff from the Roads and Transportation Section will meet Cllr Fitzgerald on site to assess the areas of concern and thereafter take action as necessary.”
Cllr Fitzgerald reiterated the importance of her motion, saying the matter “needs to be addressed immediately.”
Sinn Féin Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley supported the motion and called for an audit on the scale of the issue.
The Fianna Fáil Cllr went on to ask the County Council to put measures in place to prevent flooding in The Grange, Portlaoise.
Mr Wes Wilkinson, Senior Executive Engineer said drainage works were carried out in The Grange in last year, but added that he will meet Cllr Fitzgerald at the estate, “with a view to making a plan for further works as required.”
Cllr Fitzgerald concluded her motions by seeking an update on The Order of Malta premises in the town, telling the Council the roof in particular is in need of repair.
Cllr Fitzgerald said the Order “does great work” but bemoaned that they “work on a shoestring.”
“The Order of Malta, I think, is one of the most important organisations in our County.
“The work they did during COVID alone was unreal.”
Mr Simon Walton, Director of Services said a meeting with the Order of Malta “will be arranged shortly, to discuss their accommodation needs.”
SEE ALSO – List of improvement measures announced for Knockmay area of Portlaoise
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