Expensive Portlaoise solar bin vanishes after vandalism

An expensive bin that was vandalised has vanished from a quiet Portlaoise retail square, with a promise that another will be installed in its place.

The solar powered compactor bin, costing thousands of euros, was vandalised in Hynd's Square.

Laois County Council has agreed to install another one, but they have also been urged to invest in renovating the square, with a call for more Gardaí to go on the beat and make it safer.

Cllr Marie Tuohy tabled a motion asking for a replacement bin in Hynd's Square, to the March meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District.

"This square is a bit of a hidden gem. There is lovely seating and umbrellas. In summer I hope to see more there. But there has been a bit of vandalism," she said.

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Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald seconded the motion.

"There are problems in the area. This could be part of the Main Street. As a council we should put some effort into this and spend some money on it.

"We should talk to the Gardaí and get them on the beat in there. I'd love to see some investment in there," Cllr Fitzgerald said.

In reply, engineer Wes Wilkinson said a new bin will be replaced in the coming weeks.