From left, Christine Ingram (Crossing Patrol), work experience student Adam Maguire, Seán Lynch MLA and Bernie McCaffrey (Crossing Patrol)
FOLLOWING a number of ‘near misses’, with one school crossing patrol operator, ‘clipped’ by a passing motorist, Sean Lynch, the local MLA – who lives in the town – has appealed to drivers to be considerate when coming through Lisnaskea at school times
He accepted that the vast majority of drivers appreciate that ‘lollipop’ operatives are doing a very valuable job in getting children safely across busy roads, but there were a small number who didn’t. “They don’t appear to realise the tragic consequences that their actions might have”, he said. It is imperative that, when our crossing patrol operatives are doing their duty, that drivers don’t pull out.
He then referred to a recent incident when an operative was escorting children across the road and a driver pulled around another vehicle that had stopped to allow the crossing.
“This vehicle clipped her with the wing mirror, and speaking to the operatives myself, they have told me that similar incidents are occurring now on a regular basis.”
Following this latest incident, the principal of St Comhghall’s Secondary School – which the children attend – Gary Kelly, complained to both the Education Authority and Transport NI.
As a result, Transport NI have, in conjunction with the PSNI, have visited the location and assessed the situation, Mr Lynch added.
“Both parties have indicated that there are visibility issues and that they will be providing additional equipment to the two town crossing patrol operatives.”
Mr Lynch also visited the scene and he agreed there were clear issues with signage warning motorists of the crossings.
“he warning signs are quite high up on the posts”, he said, “and they should have working flashing lights on them to get the motorist’s attention.:
He said his office had contacted Transport NI who have agreed to ensure that the flashing lights are working correctly so that they can alert motorists of the upcoming crossings.
Mr Lynch renewed his appeal to motorists to take special care at school opening and closing times. “This could have been a child that was hit.”
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