“This is not just a health and safety issue—it’s also about safeguarding our telecommunications network”
Independent Drogheda Rural Councillor Declan Power has called on Louth County Council to urgently collaborate with Eir to audit and address the increasing number of leaning utility poles across the county, particularly in rural areas.
“Leaning poles have become a widespread and visible issue across Louth, especially in rural communities” Cllr. Power said. “It’s crucial that utility providers like Eir are held accountable for the maintenance of their infrastructure,” he added.
Specific areas of concern to Cllr. Power include a “precariously leaning” pole in Sandpit and others between Termonfeckin and Drogheda, as well as badly leaning and even fallen poles in Grangebellew, one of which is being held up by a ditch.
“This is a persistent problem in many rural areas across Louth, and immediate action is needed to ensure public safety,” Power warned. “I raised the issue during December’s council meeting, securing a commitment from Director of Services David Jones, who assured that the concerns would be escalated to Eir for resolution.
“This is not just a health and safety issue—it’s also about safeguarding our telecommunications network. The damage caused by recent storms like Storm Darragh and Storm Eowyn demonstrates the growing risks posed by extreme weather events. Leaning poles are an added danger during such storms,” he explained.
Cllr. Power confirmed ongoing discussions with Eir and pledged to continue working closely with Louth County Council until a comprehensive plan of action is in place.
“The safety of our communities and the resilience of our infrastructure must be prioritised. This issue cannot be ignored any longer,” he concluded.
