Kilkenny councillor hits out at local 'thugs' and 'criminals'

Independent, Cllr Eugene McGuinness packed a punch at the most recent sitting of the Kilkenny City Municipal District, hitting out at 'thugs' and ‘criminals’ and claiming they were responsible for the bike rack on the Callan Road (Margaret’s Field) having to be removed.

The comments followed a presentation to councillors on the city’s Active Travel Programme 2025.

Kilkenny City is committed to having 60% of trips made by Sustainable Modes (walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport) by 2040 as part of the City and County Development Plan 2021-2027 with a number of funded measures being implemented annually to take the city and county closer to that target.

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Amongst the city allocations in 2025 were improvement works on the Freshford Road (€100,000), the Cootes Lane to Ring Road (€68,000) and the installation of new footpaths in Loughboy (€50,000).

However, Cllr McGuinness believes the bike back removal was a win for 'criminals'.

"Criminals shouldn’t win," he remarked.

In response, Area Engineer, Stan Cullen stated the bike rack removal 'may have been a commercial decision'.

Meanwhile, Cllr McGuinness added that a park and ride service ‘should be considered’, a measure that is 'on the horizon' according to Mr Cullen.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party’s Sean O hArgain voiced his concerns and 'fears' people have attempting to use the Bohernatounish Road, stating, "It needs to be safer for workers (who work in the nearby industrial park) to walk or cycle."

Meanwhile, Cllr Joe Malone of Fianna Fáil argued a car park is required at the Canal/Lacken Walk, a suggestion noted but not currently in the council’s plans.

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