Clare County Council is to take steps with the aim of controlling a herd of wild goats in the area of the Rocky Road in Ennis.
The animals have been a regular feature of life in that part of the town for the last 60 years.
However, residents and business owners have recently raised concerns over damage to gardens and road safety as up to 22 goats have been roaming in the Kilrush Road and Cahercalla areas.
Clare FM’ Fiona McGarry reports:
The Rocky Road has been home to a herd of feral goats for generations.
For many, the animals are a bit of a novelty and have a special place in the history of Ennis.
But recent developments in the area have resulted in up to 22 goats making their way further afield.
Since the start of Spring, they’ve been making regular incursions into the nearby West Point Business Park, as well as residential estates along the Kilrush Road and in Cahercalla.
Residents have reported them finding them in their lawns and gardens and even sleeping under hedges.
The more serious issue though is one of road safety.
Local shopkeeper Stephen Coote says the goats have been causing issues at Cahercalla Cross recently.
***
Clare County Council is now set to erect signage to warn drivers in the area.
It will also look at options to rehome the goats.
Ennis Councillor Johnny Flynn:
***
Esther Woods from the nearby Home Gallery Interiors believes a solution which ensures the safety of the goats and local people, would be very welcome.
