At the September Monthly Council meeting SDLP Councillor Sharon Haughey called for clarification on legal standing of traders gritting outside their premises in frosty weather.
Speaking in response to a paper that had been circulated by NILGA on the matter after she raised this issue last winter, Cllr Haughey said, “It is very frustrating that Road Service are washing their hands off this issue. There is no doubt that last winter there were major problem in Armagh City, Markethill and Tandragee over slippy footpaths. I witnessed this myself in all three towns and was horrified to see the disgraceful conditions shoppers had to endure to get their weekly shopping done. The dangerous slippy pathways also done a lot of traders out of business, especially around Christmas and over the New Year sales.
“I raised this issue last winter and welcome NILGA’s efforts in attempting to find a resolution to this problem, which not only affectsArmagh but every other council area. However I do not think it is acceptable for Road Service to expect council to pay for staff to grit our city and towns when it’s clearly Road Service’s responsibility.
“I have also been approached by a number of traders who have heard rumours that if they are responsible and grit outside their own property then they could become liable for any falls that may happen on this stretch. That is completely unfair and I would like full clarification on the legal position in this respect.
“I believe many traders are willing to do what they can to keep the pathways outside their own premises free from snow and frost. That is a responsible approach but by no means should those traders be liable to claims if a fall occurs. That would be unfair and unjust to responsible traders who are simply trying to help improve safety for shoppers.
“We need clarification on this matter before the winter sets in. Armagh Council also needs to keep this issue top of the agenda to ensure our city and towns can continue to thrive no matter what the weather.”