VIDEO: Rat 'infestation' in Laois housing estate pond - Portlaoise councillor

Residents in a Laois housing estate with a drainage pond are in fear over rats, with a video taken by one resident showing a rat trotting along the footpath and swimming across the pond.

Portlaoise councillor Catherine Fitzgerald is urging Laois County Council to tackle what she describes as a "rat infestation" in Esker Hills.

The large estate in Portlaoise has a large pond inside its entrance, designed as an eco friendly measure to gather rainwater and prevent road flooding. It attracts ducks, but clearly other less welcome wildlife too.

Cllr Fitzgerald has demanded action on behalf of residents.

"This is a serious worry for residents. Huge rats are coming out of mainly the pond, which is under Laois County Council control. Not just at night, during the day.

"I would be happy to meet the environment department and have them talk to residents to see what we can get, maybe pest control, whatever is needed to help the residents.

"I know this is a problem nationwide, from flood water. They are really worried," she said.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley seconded the motion, and said she had received videos which she forwarded to Laois council staff. 

"I don't know if the HSE has to be involved. This bounds onto the rail line. I fully support this serious issue," she said.

Cllr Barry Walsh said he had received 10 emails over the weekend. He suggests that the rats could be attracted by people feeding ducks.

"A worry is kids playing, with pests around, from a health and safety point of view. We'll look at the causes. In general in the county it seems to be an issue. Whether there is rubbish, or people feeding ducks, just a bit of education would be of benefit," Cllr Walsh said.

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In reply to Cllr Fitzgerald's motion, the council's environment team say they will investigate the matter, and give an update to the Municipal District committee as soon as possible.