THE overflow of raw sewage onto footpaths and roads at College Park and the surrounding area in Letterkenny is causing a health hazard, Cllr Gerry McMonagle told Tuesday’s Letterkenny/Milford MD meeting.
A number of residents from local residents’ associations in the area were present at the meeting.
The Sinn Féin councillor called on the council to carry out a 90 day desludging of the mechanical sewage plant at the site to prevent the regular occurrence of it overflowing.
Cllr McMonagle told members the concerned local residents had brought in an expert to assess the ongoing problems with the plant. The expert suggested that in the short term the council take care of the plant as they eventually end up having to empty it.
“He recommended that the council desludge the plant every 90 days to prevent it overflowing.
“While the council have done great work towards having the estate taken in charge Irish Water are responsible for it at the end of the day.
“It is imperative we meet the residents half way on this.
“There are three to four estates in there and a school with almost 400 students, we should not be opening them up to this sort of danger.
“I was hoping I would get the council’s commitment to the 90 day desludging here today,” Cllr McMonagle said.
The motion was seconded by Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh who described the residents association in the area as very proactive.
“This problem is a blight on the great work the residents do to keep the estate so well,” he added.
Cllr Donal Mandy Kelly added that the effects of the overflowing sewage were being felt in estates below this.
“Can we get a commitment from this council,” Cllr McMonagle asked.
Executive Scientist Dr Joe Ferry said his main concern was that the plant would need regular maintenance checks.
“Most of the evidence would suggest that the pumps regularly don’t work, in heavy rain or when there is a malfunction.
“We need to set ourselves a target. I would imagine after 90 days it would be pretty full,” he added.
Director of Services Liam Ward said he would talk to his fellow Director of Services Michael McGarvey about checking the plant every 90 days.
Cllr McMonagle requested that Mr Ward come back to him on the issue.
In a written reply the council stated that “Donegal County Council Taking in Charge Section have had ongoing discussions with Uisce Éireann regarding them formally taking charge of this pump station”.
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