For years Youghal, and some of its most vulnerable streets, have been blighted by the lack of adequate Traffic Calming Measures. Travelling around the country you will see them in almost every town and village you pass, except Youghal.

I was born and brought up in Strand Street, which is particularly affected by the lack of Traffic Calming. The width of The Mall encourages some drivers to speed up after the minor speed hump in Kent Street. By the time they reach the narrow end of Strand Street, some are doing 60kph. And if the road is clear ahead, which does happen, they don’t slow down until they reach the top of the street. And bear in mind there is a school at the top of the street, as well as elderly and infirm resdents and children

And Strand Street is not alone. South Cross Lane, Ashe Street, Emmet Place, Raheen Road, Spa Hill and other streets are fair game for idiot drivers and lack of Traffic Calming Measures.

However, Traffic Calming is not the only issue. While it would certainly help enormously, it should go hand in hand with enforcement of the Law, which is also lacking on these busy streets.

I once asked a member of Youghal Town Council what it would take to get something done, would someone have to die first. The reply was as chilling as it was short, Yes!

This petition does not seek to apportion blame for past failures but to plead with Cork County Council, its public servants and engineers, our local TDs and MEPs, the Gardai, and anyone else in a position to make this happen. It is long past being a matter of urgency. It hampers people’s quality of life on a daily basis.

This is an Election year. Make Traffic Calming Measures for Youghal and Traffice Enforcement THE issue in Local Elections, European Elections and the next General Election.

Do it for your neighbours. Do it for the safety of your children. For whatever reason just do it!

Thank you for your support