'They’re going to the toilet just anywhere'
Popular lakeside beauty spot suffers vandalism and anti-social behaviour
A popular lakeside beauty spot in north Westmeath is under threat from increasing vandalism and anti-social behaviour, prompting councillors to call for urgent measures to protect the Sailors Garden area of Lough Sheelin near Finea.
At the June meeting of the Mullingar Kinnegad Municipal District, Cllr Alfie Devine tabled a motion requesting the reinstatement of vandalised barriers, the installation of CCTV and signage, and more frequent patrols by litter and dog wardens at Sailors Garden and other lakeside amenities including Lough Lene and Lough Derravaragh.
The council responded that the area will be examined for potential CCTV coverage and signage, and confirmed that seasonal wardens will allow for increased enforcement of Lakeshore Byelaws.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Devine described a worsening situation at the scenic site: “The barriers have been broken down, the signage is gone, and they’re cutting down the trees and using the firewood around the shore of the lake. And they’re going to the toilet just anywhere.”
Cllr Devine emphasised that while most lakeside locations are well managed, Sailors Garden has been suffering damage lately: “It’s one of the most picturesque parts of our county. We can’t forget about it,” he said. He welcomed the proposed measures, but suggested an increase in weekend patrols when activity is at its highest.
Cllr Niall Gaffney seconded the motion and praised the natural appeal of the area. “It’s such a picturesque, lovely, wild and untouched part. That’s part of the attraction,” he said. “But we definitely need to come down hard when people vandalise or try to take away from the beauty.”
Senior executive officer Mary Goldsberry confirmed that wardens had been active over the weekend at the lakes and reported back each Monday. “It was well policed over the weekend and action was taken on several accounts,” she said.
Cllr Ken Glynn welcomed that but highlighted continued breaches of lakeshore byelaws at sites like Tudenham. “There’s ongoing frustration from local residents and business owners,” he said, adding that when locals approach people, often they’re intoxicated and can’t drive.
“So,” he said, “it is a matter for the gardaí.”
Cllr David Jones also backed the motion and welcomed the presence of camper vans in the area as a potential economic boost, provided they follow a ‘leave no trace’ approach. “It’s great to see them, especially in the smaller villages, once they respect the area. Everyone’s welcome – just respect the area and keep it clean.”