Ciaran Mather, 24 May
Nine ring buoys have been removed from Clane, the Leinster Leader has
been told.
The removals are a cause for concern as unannounced changes to River
Liffey water levels in Clane can occur as ESB Networks generate
electricity.
Commenting on the removals, Independent councillor Pádraig McEvoy
said: "With over 1.2 kilometres of pathway along the River Liffey in
Clane, Kildare County Council maintains emergency life saving ring
buoys at key points of access and risk.
"The recent removal of nine ring buoys is unusual, but (also) a concern
for the families of individuals who use the river amenities."
Cllr McEvoy, who has since been in contact with local gardaí regarding
the issue, continued: "In raising general public awareness, I hope that
the community in Clane will help to stop the interference with life
saving equipment.
"Replacements are not free and the last thing we want to hear about is
an avoidable fatality among our community due in part to missing ring
buoys."
He added that Labour Party Senator Mark Wall is due to raise a delayed
bill relating to the removal of ring buoys when he will attend the
Seanad later today.
It is understood that Kildare County Council has ordered replacement
ring buoys and is appealing to residents in Clane to assist in
maintaining the life-saving equipment without further interference.