Householders and business owners asked to assist in snow clearing

 

Westmeath County Council is calling on householders and business owners to be ready to clear snow from footpaths in the county.

In a statement today, the council said it noted the Met Eireann status yellow warnings (meaning 'Be aware') for snow, ice, severe low temperatures and wind chill from late on Monday night through the rest of this week. There are indications that further warnings may issue for more severe conditions during Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week.

The council said it is planning its response to this evolving situation in cooperation with other agencies at local level and in communication with the National Emergency Co-ordination Group.

The council said it would prioritise the treatment of National Primary and National Secondary roads and regional transportation corridors, as well as key local routes within the main towns.

Council staff and equipment will be deployed as required and the council has access to sufficient salt to assist in dealing with this weather event.

The council said it is also monitoring the number of rough sleepers and is working with the voluntary agencies to provide additional emergency accommodation during this period.

The statement continued: “While the council will respond within the limits of its resources, it may not be in a position to attend to all requests for assistance. In this context, residents and business owners are requested to cooperate and assist in clearing snow from footpaths in towns, villages and housing estates across the county. People are also reminded to be aware of their more vulnerable neighbours and to ensure that they have an adequate supply of fuel, food and medical supplies.”

Please see www.winterready.ie for further advice, and keep up to date with national and local advice through the relevant media channels.