Long-awaited repairs begin on "treacherous" Mayo footpath

Work has finally commenced on a notoriously hazardous footpath outside the Sacred Heart Home in Castlebar.

Barriers were erected early this morning on the Pontoon Road route, and machinery is now on-site as Mayo County Council begins essential improvement works.

The footpath, which has been a source of concern for years, is now temporarily closed to pedestrians while the upgrade is carried out.

The deteriorating condition of the path sparked repeated criticism at Castlebar Municipal District meetings.

Independent councillor Harry Barrett welcomed the news, describing the repairs as long overdue.

“I am absolutely delighted that the path at the Sacred Heart Home Castlebar is finally being repaired,” said councillor Barrett. “I have been calling for it for the last two years.”

Fine Gael councillor Ger Deere who has also long-campaigned for work to commence previously referenced a local woman who sustained injuries after a fall on the path several months ago.

“She had to receive medical attention and was advised to seek insurance cover,” Councillor Deere explained.

He recalled reading a letter in which the incident was classified as ‘nonfeasance’, a legal term referring to inaction, which he felt amounted to a dismissal of responsibility.

“It says nonfeasance, but I think it's nonsense,” he stated. “It has to be highlighted.

The footpath at the Sacred Heart Hospital is the worst. We've been going on about it for years.”