Wild deers a danger to motorists - Cribbin

Oisín McGovern

UNEXPECTED deer crossings on Mayo roads are endangering the safety of motorisst on Mayo roads, according to councillors from the Claremorris/Swinford Municipal District.
The issue was raised at last week’s meeting of the municipal district by Cllr John Cribbin, who said he had received a representation from a constituent who had ‘a frightening experience’ after twelve deer crossed the road in front of their car near Addergoole off the N17.
The Ballyhaunis-based councillor said that locals want Mayo County Council to erect signs to alert people to the danger in the area.
The Fine Gael councillor queried who would be responsible if a car was damaged or a person injured as a result of a deer crossing.
Ballinrobe-based councillor Michael Burke said that there was a similar problem in the Ballinrobe area on the Partry side.
Cllr Burke said that a number of cars had been damaged as a result of deer crossings and that he was unaware of anyone who was able to receive compensation for the damage.
Cllr John Caulfield said that deer crossings had occurred at Ballinamore near Kiltimagh, which he said was causing ‘huge danger’ to drivers.
Head of Claremorris/Swinford Municipal District Padraic Flanagan said the council would explore the issues of responsibility for damage to cars as well as the issue of signage.