Concerns raised over public lighting issues in Waterford as dark evenings close in
Cllr Kate O’Mahoney spoke on the subject at the October meeting of the Dungarvan-Lismore District
Concerns have been raised over issues with public lighting in County Waterford as the dark evenings close in.
Sinn Féin councillor Kate O’Mahoney spoke on the subject at the October meeting of the Dungarvan-Lismore District.
Cllr O’Mahoney welcomed the completion of a number of public lighting repairs in Dungarvan in recent weeks.
The public lights along the stretch from St. Augustine’s College to Barnawee Bridge have been repaired, along with outages in Comeragh Crescent.
However, she insisted that additional funding is needed to tackle ongoing outages and address the growing number of faults being reported.
Cllr O’Mahoney said that public lighting remains a concern for many communities, with outages affecting residential estates, local roads and pedestrian routes.
Speaking after the meeting, she stated: “It is great to see these lights back working, and I am delighted to have worked with those affected to get repairs over the line.
“Public lighting plays an important role in helping people feel safe, particularly during the darker evenings and winter months.
“However, there is still a significant amount of work to be done.
“I will continue to raise lighting faults with Waterford City and County Council, and I am working to have outstanding issues addressed in areas including Silversprings, Springmeadows and Richard A. Walsh Street, among others.”
Cllr O’Mahoney explained that some of the faults being encountered relate to issues with concentric cabling, which can make repairs more complicated.
She said that depending on the nature and extent of the fault, works may require additional investigation and resources before a permanent repair can be completed.
Cllr O’Mahoney acknowledged that the council faces practical challenges in dealing with these issues, but stressed that adequate funding is a key part of finding a long-term solution.
“Unfortunately, public lighting faults are not always straightforward to repair. We are seeing issues arising with concentric cabling, and in some cases the repairs required are more complex.
“The work involved can be challenging, and the funding available has a direct bearing on what can be progressed.
“While I understand that there are competing demands on council resources, public lighting cannot be overlooked.
“These are issues that directly affect people in their day-to-day lives.”
She continued by saying that she will push for any outstanding repairs to be completed and for public lighting to receive the investment it needs.
Cllr. O’Mahoney concluded by encouraging the public to report public lighting faults locally and to contact her with any outstanding issues.