The Coroner for Mayo came under criticism by Director of Services with Mayo County Council , Tom Gilligan, at yesterday’s monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal District.

Mr Gilligan told councillors that Coroner Pat O’Connor had recently in the media accused those in authority of doing “little or nothing” about the infamous accident black spots along the N5.

“The Coroner has never once written to Mayo County Council outlining his concerns regarding road safety”, Mr Gilligan stated. “While everyone is entitled to his / her opinion, not to contact the local authority directly shows a lack of courtesy and respect, in my opinion”, he stated.

“There is a protocol and out of respect such concerns should be put in writing”.

Mr O’Connor’s remarks had made headline news, and Mr Gilligan concluded, “ I don’t want the public to think it’s accurate”.

Midwest News contacted Mr O’Connor yesterday afternoon to ask for his response to Mr Gilligan’s remarks. He responded saying he “is not making any comment on the reported personal nature of Mr Gilligan’s comments”.