Cllrs fear review of outdoor staff structures and depots could impact services in Kells

Councillors in Kells fear the possible reduction of engineering and outdoor staff for the area and have urged management to ensure there are no cuts.

At a meeting of Kells Municipal Council last week, Cllr Sean Drew said he was concerned at possible changes being mooted for the Kells District.

"Will it affect our engineering and outdoor teams. Will there be a deterioration in services in Kells, It is important that we maintain the services we have. Will we have any input into the decision and will be advised on any decision made?" he asked.

Director of Services, Dara McGowan, said there was currently a review of outdoor staff structures and depots underway with a view to improving efficiency. "It is not complete and you will be advised of any decision made."

He said it was an executive function - a decision for council management - and councillors would not be involved in the decision. He said the councillors could contact the transportation section, but there isn't a consultation process.

Cllr Sarah Reilly proposed the council write to the transportation section, expressing their concern at the reconfiguration and any proposals to reduce the number of outdoor staff.

Cllr Michael Gallagher said that the outdoor staff were struggling to keep up with pothole repairs at the moment.

"Is it possible we could lose a section? It would be absolutely crazy to lose any outdoor staff. I propose that we stress out total opposition to any reduction of staff in Kells" he said.

Cllr Eugene Cassidy said it was extremely important that the area doesn't lose any crews.

"There are times crews cannot go out because there are not enough people for make up a team. It s important we don't lost any staff that would reduce crew members to a level that they cannot be sent out. We don't want something to happen that needs a crew and we don't have a full crew to send out."

Cllr Mike Bray pointed out that the councillors are the first port of call for most people, It is the councillors the public contact when something goes wrong.

Mr McGowan said the review is part of an ongoing process within the organisation and it was not being done to reduce services in Kells, but to improve them.