Lights switched off on buildings and monuments on foot of directive

THE lights have gone off on some buildings and monuments around Mayo.

It is on foot of a directive to switch off non-safety lights this winter as the country faces rising costs and possible energy shortages.

It involves buildings with decorative lighting that were illuminated at night. One example, a Castlebar Municipal District meeting heard, was Christ Church in the county town.

The issue of lighting was raised by Councillor Martin McLoughlin who said how a Dark Skies pilot project in Newport, where public and private street lighting has been dimmed, is set to result in savings of up to €20,000.

“Imagine what it would do for a town the size of Castlebar,” he said.

They had been told there could be blackouts this winter and by following the example of Newport they could save energy and make savings too.

Councillor Blackie Gavin, however, didn't agree, saying he didn't want lights turned down in a town where there are a lot of elderly people.

Councillor Donna Sheridan queried if some lights were already being turned off, like the church, and was told about the directive to switch off non-safety lights.

They are not street or safety lights, but, for example, flood lighting on buildings.

Separately, Mayo County Council is leading out on a national project, changing to LED lights, which will bring energy savings.