LIMERICK City and County Council’s decision to delay grass cutting in the green areas of local housing estates to allow dandelions provide pollen for bees has met with some opposition in Newcastle West.
FINE Gael councillor Jerome Scanlan has called on the Council to ask contractors to start cutting grass in the town’s housing estates without further delay.
He maintains that “profuse growth” over the winter period has led to grass in the green areas growing up to a foot in height.
“Contractors normally start grass cutting for the council in Newcastle West during the third week of March each Spring. Three weeks on and no start is evident.
“We had a good service during 2018 for the first time in several years. Communities within our town were appreciative of this service.
“Why was this discontinued?” he asked.
“Residents who pay their Local Property Tax expect and deserve service. Children who are now on their Easter holidays need to be able to play and exercise in the green areas of their estates.
“Profuse growth over the winter period has culminated in grass of nine to 12 inches in height within green areas. It’s unsafe for younger children to exercise on as well as for those who play ball games there.
Conditions if not dealt with promptly may become a health risk given the potential of excess vegetation to attract vermin.”
Cllr Scanlan maintains that estate management led by City Hall is not working and has asked that responsibility for the service be returned to the Municipal Office in Newcastle West “where our staff fully understand the needs of our town”.
In response, a local authority spokesman explained: “Circumstances beyond the control of Limerick City and County Council have resulted in the grass cutting programme being delayed for a few weeks. It is now due to begin on Easter Tuesday.”
