Just to start off a topic on this issue, the following are a number of issues raised at a recent meeting in Stamullen, which was attended by some GE candidates (McEntee FG, Byrne FF, Hannigan LAB, Campbell PDs and Finnegan SF).

1. Shoddy development - and difficulties forcing developers to sort problems.

2. Lack of policing. As with any commuter town, the influx of people over the last 4 years has led to an upsurge in anti-social behaviour in the area. What is galling many people is the lack of a visible Garda presence and many reports of non-response by the Gardai when incidents are reported.

3. Education. What worries people is the lack of secondary schooling in the area - according to the Dept of Education, despite a 1000 pupil school scheduled for Laytown, the east Meath area is still estimated to be facing a shortfall of 1500 places. Given that secondary schools take a minimum of 7 years to construct from planning stage, the problem is more than pressing. Locals feel that with almost 4000 people in the village and more arriving with ongoing development, a secondary school should be approved for the village)

4. Public transport. The lack of a bus service linking the village to surrounding towns - or even the local train station was highlighted as an issue. Another key issue was the deficiencies seen in the commuter service from Gormanston train station - despite ticket prices being up to twice the price of those from Balbriggan, there are less than half the number of peak trains serving the station.

5. Lack of infrastructure/amenities. Villages should not be allowed to expand without the provision of adequate, well-lit roads & footpaths. More effort should also be put in to ensuring there are family amenities such as parks and playgrounds in villages.

6. Lack of services from Meath County Council. Local residents highlighted delay in MCC taking estates in charge and asked why MCC do not have a parks Department. The fact that residents have to pay to keep their estates maintained was seen as another unfair tax.

Although these issues are particular to one village on the Meath Coast, I'm sure they'll be mirrored in many more developing areas around the country. I for one am looking forward to the canvassing!


TMC

Who are you canvassing for? Fitzgerald?

Nope - I'm not canvassing for anyone and have no political affiliations. Actually, I can't really see the point in voting for an independent candidate, except as a protest vote. I think the days of the Gregory deal are long gone.

I just thought I'd mention the issues that were raised at a meeting which was attended by the main political parties. I've heard on other blog sites that many of the canvassers were not aware of the issues affecting local communities and so.....

TMC

I see, just thought your sign meant you were actually involved campaigning for an independent.

Same issues apply here on the coast.