Overflowing sewage a ‘major health hazard’ near Rataoth national school

A MANHOLE cover that overflows regularly, spewing effluent onto the grass and pathway near a Ratoath school, is a major hazard to schoolchildren and local residents, according to a local councillor.

The overflow of sewage occurs on a regular basis near the entrance to St Paul's National School.

Parents, staff and local residents say its a major hazard as youngsters walk through it and cyclists and buggies get it on their wheels.

The manhole is adjacent to a pedestrian entrance to the Ratoath and regularly floods out onto the grass and road.

There have been several incidents already this year and according to Cllr Nick Killian there hasn't been a satisfactory response to the ongoing problem from Uisce Éireann.

“The most recent incident was resolved, but this overflow is occurring at least four times per year,” he said.

School principal, Mr Stephen Harte, said it is a big concern as it was in close proximity to a pedestrian gate to the school.

“When it overflows, it is mainly onto the grass but children walk on it and can carry it into the school on their shoes and clothes, it is a health and safety issue.

“It is also an issue for local residents, family pets walk through it,” he said.

Mr Harte said the issue has been ongoing for many years. “It is a big concern and it has occurred a number of times this year already,” he said.

Cllr Nick Killian said effluent was spilling out onto the path and onto the road affecting parents pushing buggies and indeed a wheelchair user has also had to deal with this sewerage on the footpath.

“I am now seeking a full commitment from Uisce Éireann with a definitive timeline to deal finally with this sewerage problem.

“This is ongoing for the past 24 months and all I am getting is excuses from Irish Water.”

He said a recent reply he received from Uisce Éireann which contained no update on a permanent solution to the problem was not good enough

“600 children are effected by this spillage when it occurs. Does Irish Water you not care about children’s health.

“I am seeking assurances from Uisce Éireann that every attempt will be made to resolve this on a permanent basis, as was promised in 2023,” he said.