Short notice cuts at civic amenity site in Leitrim sparks criticism

Concerns have been raised about the future of the Mohill Civic Amenity Site at a meeting of the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District.

Cllr Maeve Reynolds put forward a motion about the site, describing it as a “lifeline” for people in the area, particularly those living rurally. She requested that the Council clarify the reasons behind the reduction in opening hours at the site and the curtailment of materials that will be accepted from October 20. In particular, Cllr Reynolds questioned the rationale for removing the bulky waste facility, given ongoing concerns about illegal dumping.

Previously, the Mohill site was open every Friday from 11am to 2pm and again from 3pm to 6pm. Since September 13, however, the site has only operated on alternating Saturdays.

Highlighting the importance of the site to local residents, Cllr Reynolds said, “For people living in the rural lands around Mohill civic amenity site it isn’t just a luxury it’s more of a lifeline. Bin lorries cannot reach narrow lanes and there’s families that don’t have the luxury.”

She also noted that volunteers from the Mohill Community Network collect litter and rely on the site to dispose of the waste.

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In response, the Council explained that Leitrim County Council has decided to cease accepting bulky waste at all amenity sites but will continue to run annual bulky waste collection days, in line with other local authorities.

Director of Services Mary Quinn stated that civic amenity sites were never intended to handle anything other than recyclable waste, with Mohill being an outlier.

“I don’t think it’s a good enough reason to close such an important amenity. Closing it would make it harder for people to do the right thing and dispose of their waste properly,” added Cllr Reynolds.

Regarding the change in opening hours, the Council said the adjustment was due to staffing difficulties but expressed hope that normal hours could be restored in the coming months.

Cllr Sean McGowan seconded Cllr Reynolds’ motion, commenting, “We’ll be responsible for people dumping if we’re not providing a service.”

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Cllr Reynolds described the prospect of ceasing bulky waste acceptance from October 20 as something that will be “sorely missed” in the area, saying the facility was being taken away on short notice.

“It’s all about encouraging people, we have to encourage people to do what is proper with their waste. If this happens more will be encouraged in the wrong direction,” added Cllr Stenson.

Ms Quinn noted that the issue could be raised with the Environment Department but does not anticipate a change in the decision, citing costs and the original purpose of civic amenity sites.

“It would be a massive backward step and a disservice to the area,” concluded Cllr Reynolds.