McDaniel ‘corrects misinformation’ on Tyrrellspass road project
Cllr Liam McDaniel has moved to correct ‘misleading social media contributions’ referencing ongoing civil works incorporating traffic calming features in Tyrrellspass.
In the posts, it is claimed that contractors have been “informed that there is no money remaining to complete the project, and that the current one-lane set-up will be left in place as a result”.
The posts, widely shared online, claim that “no works are currently taking place, and that hundreds of thousands [of euro] have been wasted”.
Cllr McDaniel stated: “The level of misinformation which has been spread in recent days regarding the ongoing project in Tyrrellspass is truly astounding.
“This is a project which has been widely welcomed in the area, and by the local Tyrrellspass Development Committee, as it will seriously address concerns regarding speeding and the safety of pedestrians and cyclists in the area.
“Given the number of communications I have received from local residents on the back of this social media post, I feel the need to urgently clarify a number of mistruths which have been spread.
“The work is being completed by Westmeath County Council, not by contractors, as has been claimed.
“The council are proceeding with ancillary works in the coming week, and a subcontractor will then be on site from November 17 to 20th to complete resurfacing of both the road and footpaths.
“That will involve a road closure over this three-day period.
“A separate sub-contractor has also completed kerbing works on site.
“There is absolutely no issue with funding to complete this project as planned, and I am astounded as to where this claim has come from.”
Cllr McDaniel, a Local Fianna Fáil elected representative, highlighted the important of responsible social media comment: “There is an onus on everyone who engages in social media commentary to ensure that accurate information is put into the public domain and that people are not being misled.
“As previously mentioned, in my role as a local representative, I have fielded a lot of calls and messages in recent days from local residents as a result of the recent irresponsible commentary.
“I have been able to clarify the situation and confirm to all local residents that there is no issue with funding, or indeed the works which have been scheduled.
“The completed works, at both ends of the village, will help to deal with an ongoing safety concern, and I have no doubt that the project, when complete, will be warmly welcomed in the area.”