Demand for lighting at Ballinamoney NS

The need for additional public lighting at Ballinamoney National School near Bailieborough was among the matters discussed at the Bailieborough-Cootehill Municipal District meeting.

Aontú's Sarah O'Reilly, aware of budgetary constraints and also that she had made close to half a dozen similar type requests in recent months, brought the matter to the attention of the council executive when elected members met at the former Courthouse in Cootehill.

Cllr O'Reilly pleaded with the council to assess the situation, with Senior Area Engineer for the district, Clinton Mulligan, telling the meeting they are aware of the situation.

However, he said the question must be posed on a value for money situation. While it was acknowledged that schools are used after hours, it was pointed out that they are generally only open during daylight time.

“Is it appropriate expenditure?” he asked, when placed against say a popular walking route in other areas, which require similar funding that may be considered a “higher priority”.

Regardless, he said the council would look at the site, after Cllr O'Reilly maintained pressure for some form of action to be taken.