Fresh Mayo concern over nuisance caused by boy racers
Complaints have been aired over the noise created by boy racers in Castlebar on Christmas Day.
Residents in the town were up in arms at clamour generated on what is normally such a peaceful day.
A significant number of boy racers were in action along the Lannagh Road and Newport Road areas.
The issue has been a source of consternation for residents of Castlebar and other towns for a number of years with several calls being made for a dedicated venue at a remote location for boy racing.
An elected member of Mayo County Council, Councillor Seamus Weir, submitted a motion on the matter at a recent meeting of Mayo County Council.
It stated: "I express my deep concern and frustration regarding the ongoing issue of rampant boy racer activity in our community.
"It has come to my attention that these illegal and dangerous practices have been escalating in recent months without sufficient intervention from the local government.
"I believe it is crucial for immediate action to be taken to address this issue.
"On a daily basis, residents of our community are subjected to excessive noise, dangerous driving, and the blatant disregard for traffic rules and public safety by these boy racers.
"It is not only a nuisance but also constitutes a significant risk to the well-being of the residents, including children and pedestrians.
"Furthermore, these activities often occur during late hours, disrupting our sleep and causing distress to many of us who are law-abiding citizens. I urge the local government to take appropriate measures to address this pressing issue.
"Here are some suggestions that I believe can make a meaningful impact
"1. Increase police presence and patrols in areas identified as hotspots for boy racer activity.
"2. Enforce strict penalties and hefty fines for those engaging in illegal racing, including vehicle impoundment.
"3. Install speed bumps, traffic cameras, or any necessary traffic calming measures in key locations prone to boy racer activities.
"It is paramount for the local government to prioritise the safety and well-being of its citizens by implementing immediate and effective measures to combat boy racer activity.
"Failure to address this issue can have severe consequences on our community's reputation, quality of life, and overall cohesion.
"I request a prompt response regarding the actions that will be taken to address this matter. I am willing to support any initiatives or volunteer my time to assist in finding a resolution to this problem.”
Councillor Weir was informed the enforcement of roads legislation in relation to the activities of boy racers is a matter for An Garda Siochána as the traffic authority - not Mayo County Council.
"Installation of traffic calming measures would only be appropriate in locations where there is an existing speed issue and would not be appropriate on national roads," Councillor Weir was told by Paul Dolan, head of roads, Mayo County Council.