More safety needed on the River Shannon to avoid any more tragedies

Last month's tragic death in the River Shannon at Quayside, Carrick-on-Shannon has renewed the call for more safety along the river in the county town.

Cllr Finola Armstrong McGuire said the family of Monaghan man Enda McCarney whose body was recovered from the water on February 13 has asked: “that this never happen again.” This has pushed the public to call for more safety measures to avoid any future tragedies in the town.

Cllr Armstrong McGuire asked Leitrim County Council to review the safety of Quayside car park which has steps and an open walkway.
She stated, “The depth of the water should be marked and railings considered in this location.” 

She said locals know how deep the water is here but visitors are unaware. She suggested we have to ask “what could have been done to prevent this?”
The town councillor pushed that this is a priority and deserves action before other works around Carrick-on-Shannon. “I think it needs to be made more safe” she concluded.

She was supported by Carrick Area councillors. Chairperson of the Municipal District Thomas Mulligan said there has been much “public comment” and asked the council to “appease the public on this.”

Leitrim Council Engineer Darragh O'Boyle admitted this is “an emotive issue.”
“The slip steps that are currently in position at the Quay location adjacent to the Aras building are specifically designed that way, in order to row boats to launch for regattas and boating events on the Shannon.
“The erection of any barriers or guardrails would prevent this activity. We can erect deep water signage either site of the row boat launch platform."

He said “I don't believe the solution is blocking off the water - we don't block access to the Blueway.”
He went on to say any removable barrier would need a full discussion of all the stakeholders including the Rowing Club, waterways Ireland, OPW.
Cllr Armstrong McGuire asked would the signage be lit. Mr O'Boyle said they could place signage in lit areas until a “bigger discussion is held.”

Gardai removed the body of Enda Carney from the River Shannon on February 13 this year.
The man was visiting the town for the weekend and had been reported missing by friends on Sunday afternoon. Gardai said the death was a tragic accident.
Enda McCarney of Derryledigan, Scotstown, Co Monaghan is survived by his wife Catriona and children Caolan, Finn, Eanna, Emmett and Pearce, Catriona's parents Bridie and Bill Quirk.

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