CCTV cameras will be installed in Mullingar's Town Park, which recently witnessed a number of vandalism and antisocial behaviour incidents.
Town councillors were informed that a camera will be placed in the Town Park, as part of the Garda CCTV scheme for Mullingar. In addition, arrangements are being made with the Gardai to have a second camera installed at the location, which will cover the full perimeter of the park. Cllr Jim Bourke called for the installation of CCTV cameras, in the interest of the children who use the playground facilities.
Cllr Bourke also requested the local authority to ensure that all directional and speed limit signs in the Mullingar town area that have been obscured by vegetation should be made visible, and any necessary repairs be carried out to these signs. A spokesperson for Westmeath County Council informed the elected representatives that all vegetation is being cut back at the present time to this end.
Meanwhile, Cllr Ken Glynn urged the council to outline what measures have been taken to date to either control or prohibit bonfires. He added that it is vital to pre-empt problems and put measures in place to avoid potential injury and damage in the approach to Halloween. He was informed that the council would be issuing a statement to remind householders of the health and environmental impacts of burning bonfires and will be requesting the public to be safe and vigilant this Hallowe’en. Householders were advised that any issue in respect of antisocial behaviour should be communicated to Gardai for their attention.
Cllr Glynn also requested the local authority immediately carry out works to re-build the pedestrian crossing at Clonmore. He added that it is currently proving to be a danger to both pedestrians and motorists, given that it is barely visible as a safety measure, while its uneven surface could potentially cause damage to motorists. The councillor was informed that a contractor has been appointed to carry out these works and it is proposed that these works will be completed within the next fortnight.
In view of the improvement in Mullingar's showing in the Tidy Towns competition, Cllr Betty Doran felt that the Town Council should give every encouragement and assistance possible to the Tidy Towns Committee. She was informed that the council will, as always, support, encourage, and work closely with the committee in the interests of the continued enhancement of the town, and the advancement of Mullingar in the Tidy Towns Competition.
Cllr Detty Cornally was informed that surfacing the road at Valley Bungalows and the replacement of kerbstones can be considered in the context of the 2009 Estimates. Cllr Cornally also raised the issue of cleaning of the lane from Patrick Street to Grange Heights, where dumping and antisocial behaviour takes place. A council spokesperson told Cllr Cornally that the laneway in question is cleaned on a regular basis by the council, and in fact was cleaned in the past week.
