Council want P.R. man to answer 'unfounded attacks'

Council want P.R. man to answer 'unfounded attacks'

BY TOM KELLY

The appointment of a public relations officer is under strong consideration by Mayo County Council following 'a wave of unfounded attacks' on the authority.

In a clear reference to the Mayo Federation of Group Water Schemes and the Keep Ireland Open organisation, members of the council are annoyed by a series of 'off-the-wall allegations' made against them in the media.

However, they are worried the council is 'losing the battle' because they have no public relations officer to respond to the criticisms.

Mr. Seamus Hughes, T.D., who raised the matter, said there appeared to be a concerted effort to undermine the reputation of Mayo County Council and the environment of the county.

"The majority of those responsible were 'greens' sitting on bar stools with their own political agendas and had no sense of responsibility to the thousands of families living in Mayo."

He said there was an urgent need for the council to respond instantly when a broadside was issued against them.

Mr. Sean McEvoy stated the council was under attack from all kinds of people. "We should blast these political hitch-hikers out of the water."

Mr. Padraig Cosgrove stated it was ridiculous the way representatives from different pressure groups threatened people.

"If they have so much courage, they should put their names on a ballot sheet."

Mr. Pat Kilbane said the impression was being given that Mayo County Council was anti-rural.

"Nothing could be further form the truth. This council has contributed hugely to the provision of water supplies to every corner of this county."

Mr. P.J. Morley, T.D. said 'off the wall and completely ridiculous statements' were made at the public rally in Castlebar organised by the Mayo F

ederation of Group Water Schemes. "Rural Ireland was there long before they discovered it. Mayo County Council has nothing to be ashamed off regarding the development of the county," he added.