Cllr Laurence Fallon, a candidate in the Roscommon County Council Athlone Electoral Area, has confirmed that he will contest the forthcoming local elections without the use of posters.
Cllr Fallon has also donated the amount saved by not erecting posters to the local Sunflower Rooms at St. Mary’s NS in Knockcroghery.
“I have decided that for this election campaign I will not use posters as a practical measure to address environmental concerns.
“Instead, I have donated the amount it would cost to produce and erect posters to the Sunflower Rooms in Knockcroghery to assist staff there to continue the amazing work they are doing to support children from throughout the area," Cllr Fallon said.
Outlining his decision to run a poster free campaign, Cllr Laurence Fallon stated that far too much plastic is being generated, such generation and use having a negative impact on the environment.
“Far too much plastic is being generated, which is having both a climate and environmental impact in our country. With both the local and European elections looming I also believe that election posters have become a blight on our towns and villages as candidates vie for available poles for posters.
“I believe that the production and use of posters for such a short period of time can no longer be justified. I am now hoping that candidates contesting both the local and European elections in this area will follow my example because I believe it’s in the long-term best interests of our environment for future generations while also supporting the valuable work of Tidy Towns organisations," Cllr Fallon commented.
N61 road safety funding
Meanwhile, Cllr Fallon has confirmed that funding has been allocated to address road safety on the N61 in the vicinity of St. John’s Church and St. Brigid’s GAA Club.
“The first phase of funding has now been allocated to Roscommon County Council for a design to improve road safety on the N61 at St. John’s Church and also at Newpark leading to St. Brigid’s GAA facilities. Road safety is a huge issue at both locations due to the speed of traffic and the volume of vehicles using these junctions.
“This funding is very welcome and will be of significant benefit to road users and to those accessing the local church, school and GAA pitch and, as such, it is important the design reflects the views of local people.
“While improvements in road safety at these locations are vital it is important that any changes do not affect the flow of traffic during busy periods around the church and GAA facilities," Cllr Fallon stated.
