Cavan and Monaghan local authorities have paid out nearly €3m euro in the past five years on compensation for people claiming to be injured on damaged footpaths. Despite this, the councils have some of the lowest number of claims recorded when compared to the rest of the country.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Cllr Seamus Coyle, said the low number of claims here are indicative of Monaghan County Council's investment in local infrastructure. He pointed to the rise of 'claim culture' and said it was on the increase across the country.
Cllr Coyle added that money paid out on these claims could be used in local communities to upgrade playgrounds, roads and houses. "I understand from figures I saw some time ago that approximately 60% of the cost of an award will go in legal fees.
This is an absolutely gravy train for these people who are involved. And, let's remember this impacts directly on every single one of us. Businesses have to pay higher insurance as a result; indeed we have see a hike in all insurance premiums in recent times," he said.
