Local Papers Commentary
The Mayo News - 3 October 2002
By Declan Holmes
Oct 2, 2002, 16:55

Mayo refuse charges are set to double
Householders across Mayo are set to pay refuse charges in 2003 that are likely to be double what they are paying in the current year. The current charges across the county vary from just under €200 to almost €400 depending on bin size but these charges are heavily subsidised by all local authorities. Changes to EU waste management plans now mean that services have to be paid in full without subsidy.

Ballina rail closure claim denied by Iarnod Eireann
Iarnod Eireann management has denied claims that it is considering closing the Manulla to Ballina rail line as part of a package of drastic cost-cutting measures. Iarnod Eireann is facing a budget deficit of more than €25 million for 2002 and it has been predicted that the deficit may increase to as much as €40 million in 2003.

First prosecution in Mayo for using mobile phone while driving
A Kiltimagh woman has become the first person in Mayo to be successfully prosecuted for using a hand-held mobile telephone. The person was fined €100 when she appeared before last week’s sitting of Kiltimagh District Court.

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