Concerns over potential 'hazard' of cow 'muck' on rural roads in Kilkenny

Responsible use of the local road network was a common theme at a recent district meeting in South Kilkenny.

Two separate but related concerns were raised. One concerned cow muck left on public roads during farm movements.

Cllr Fidelis Doherty said several people had complained about roads being left ‘mucked’ after cows were transported across them, and asked if anything could be done to tackle the issue.

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Area engineer John Tennyson confirmed that the council does have powers in such cases.

“We issue enforcement letters following a site investigation if there is waste on the road and it’s perceived as a hazard,” he explained.

While some farmers cooperate immediately, others do not, and the council sometimes has to take further action.

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In certain situations, he said, the council has cleaned the roads itself and passed the bill back to the farmer.

However, he also urged balance, noting that officials “have to be cognisant we are in rural Ireland.”

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