Remedial works sought for wastewater infrastructure

SHANNON needs emergency funds for essential remedial repairs to the wastewater infrastructure in the town, it was claimed at the September meeting of the Town Council.
Councillor Gerry Flynn put forward a motion that the council apply to the Minister for the Environment for funding.
“If there is a major burst in the system, a whole section of the town could be put out of action,” he claimed.
In a written reply, engineer Eugene O’Shea stated there is a plan in place for a lasting solution.
“As outlined by Sean Ward, senior engineer, Clare County Council, to the September meeting of the Shannon Electoral Area, a brief has been prepared in relation to the Shannon sewerage scheme for consultants to 1. prepare the Environmental Impact Scheme and 2. design the advance works contract to upgrade the biggest foul pumping stations and associated infrastructure.
“This advance works contract is of critical importance to Shannon. It is expected that these documents will be ready by early 2011 and the preliminary report with its accompanying EIS will be forwarded to the DEHLG for approval.”
Councillor Cathy McCafferty said there has been a lot of concern about the situation.
“During the summer there were many complaints of smells in the town. It’s not just unpleasant but it’s a health hazard and a cause of anxiety because of the spills there have been in this town over the years.”
There had been a bad smell on the morning of the meeting, Councillor Patricia McCarthy claimed.
Councillor Tony McMahon said that he acknowledged the seriousness of the problem but he was concerned that if some sort of remedial works were done, a piecemeal effort could be left in place without proper works being carried out.