"It's a Problem Now, But It's No Longer a Disaster"

Labour’s Cllr Michael O’Donovan claimed that lobbying by councillors and submissions from residents had brought about substantial improvements in the pipeline scheme.

"None of us want to see the Tolka Valley dug up, but if some work has to happen to facilitate new sewage works and stromwater protection, then our job is to make sure the job is done with minimum hassle and maximum reinstatement.

I am happy that a number of motions of my own have been accepted by the Council’s engineers. These include:-

• 
  That some sections of the river are available at all times to the fishing clubs and individual fishers.


• That the full reinstatement of the park will be carried out under the supervision of an ecologist.


• That the orchid meadows will be reinstated in accordance with the recommendations of the ecology report by NATURA consultants.


• That full cognisance be taken of the Archaeology report already carried out by the Council.


• That a liaison committee will be set up to ensure that residents are kept informed of progress and can contribute their views.


• That all appropriate measures are taken, in line with the requirements of the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board, to ensure that the river and fish life are not adversely affected by the works.

There was one submission from a local group that I cannot support. That is the proposal to construct part of the pipeline along the Old Navan Road in order to avoid the valley near Castlecurragh. This would have huge consequences for traffic movement, and people going to work would be badly hit by the disruption to bus routes 238, 38, 38A, 220, and 270.



Cllr Michael O’Donovan