Public gets green light to help clear footpaths

HOUSEHOLDERS and business owners will be encouraged to clear snow from outside their premises this winter as part of the Government’s plans for dealing with extreme weather.

Justice and Defence Minister Alan Shatter said that the office of the Attorney General had provided advice that the issue of liability does not arise for snow cleared in a safe manner.

Uncertainty over personal liability and the fear of legal action resulted in many homeowners being reluctant to clear footpaths during last winter’s extended period of freezing weather.