Laois service for people with disabilities still waiting on footpath years later

There has been renewed calls for the extension of a footpath in Mountrath to cater to The Muiríosa Foundation's day care centre for disabled children and adults.

The Muiríosa Foundation provides a respite facility and services to children and adults with varying levels of intellectual disabilities and their families. The facility has operated in Mountrath for nearly twenty years.

The battle to get the footpath extended on the Ballyfin Road has been ongoing for years. In 2022, Cllr James Kelly brought the motion to Laois County Council following an appeal from staff at the centre.

There was a survey carried out in response to the request, however work has still not been completed.

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At the December meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory / Mountmellick MD, Cllr Kelly said the 160 metre footpath is needed to assist clients in the care of the centre.

He told the council: "The provision would greatly enhance safe access to the town for clients and staff, many of whom are wheelchair users." Currently, staff and clients have to make their way along the road without any footpath.

Cllr Kelly added: "It's a dangerous, dangerous part of the town."

Laois County Council's Area Office responded that they and elected members would agree an Annual Footpath Works Programme early in 2026. They said: "All works will be subject to available budget."

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme