Councillors’ newfound interest in town library

AS a long-standing member of Carrigaline library in Co Cork, I welcome the opening of the new facility, which is first class. I would also like to pay tribute to the local library staff who have been most helpful and courteous over the years.

However, I find it ironic that local councillors (those going forward for election) could all find the time to attend the opening on Monday, April 27.

The building was completed (apart from the fit-out) in December 2006, and it took a further 10 weeks to get the doors opened for business.

The library was one of 14 tasks identified by the Carrigaline Pilot Project Group (2006-2008) which was set up by the County Development Board to identify and remedy deficiencies in the town. The group consisted of elected representatives, agencies, community people and it met four times a year. It quickly identified the library as a priority and the first completion deadline was April/May 2007.

However, during 2007 not one of our councillors attended any of the meetings. The salaries and expenses received by these councillors for the period we were waiting for the library were in excess of £600,000 and, of course, they will also receive a sum in excess of £3,000 per year of service if they are not elected this time. Nice work if you can get it.

The only conclusion I can come to is that it would be a good idea to have a photo-shoot as the first item on the agenda for meetings in future that require the presence of our councillors.

Maurice J Coveney

Laskerville

Carrigaline East

Co Cork