Residents have to arrange closure of car park barrier

Since a barrier was erected in October in a bid to prevent the anti-social behaviour and noisy cars that have caused disturbance in the car park for years, Council workers have been opening the barrier at 7am every day, while residents have had to take on the responsibility for the closure of the barrier at 7pm.

At Monday night’s Council meeting Sinn Féin Councillor Tommy Maguire said: “The residents have no idea what they are going to encounter. We need to send a message to the PSNI that it is their responsibility.” Thomas O’Reilly said: “The risk is on the public.” Acting Chief Executive of Fermanagh District Council Robert Gibson told the Chamber: “This is a PSNI issue.” He stated: “The Council can’t monitor the safety of residents closing the gate.” Councillor Tommy Maguire comments: “Residents were initially delighted with the resolution but this problem of closing the gates has now arisen.” He adds: “The onus is on the PSNI and hopefully they will step-up and nip over to close the barrier.” A Council spokeswoman states: “The Council is responsible for the opening of the barrier in the morning, seven days per week. The PSNI is responsible for the management of closing the barrier.

Since the report was taken, the PSNI agreed with the residents that the residents would close the barrier to avoid costs being incurred by the PSNI. In the event of a vehicle being locked in, the PSNI is the responsible body and a contact telephone number for the PSNI is displayed at the car park for use in this instance.” A spokeswoman from the PSNI said: “Following consultation, it was agreed by all parties involved, that the car park would close in the evening. Arrangements were agreed by all involved as to the specific arrangements regarding this.” For more updates, photographs and debate follow The Impartial Reporter on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/impartialreporter And on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/impartialrep