KILDARE’S school warden service is coming back to full strength following last week’s crisis, when several of those employed as ‘lollipop’ ladies and gents were unfortunately hit by flu.

Expressing thanks to all those who helped out, Road Safety Officer Declan Keogh stated that all crossings were covered yesterday morning (Monday 14 January) and he added that warden numbers should be back to full strength in the week ahead.

There were considerable problems at schools in areas including Newbridge, Leixlip, Maynooth and Celbridge at the start of last week, just as children were returning after the Christmas holidays. Mr Keogh had appealed to parents to see their children safely across the road to school in cases where there was no warden on duty.

This week, he thanked the parents, along with school principals and staff, relief wardens who  turned out to assist and members of the Kildare Civil Defence, all of whom worked to ensure that no serious consequences resulted from the temporary problems with the warden service.

Noting that people, particularly parents, had expressed concern, Mr Keogh stated that the situation

at crossings throughout the county has “improved greatly” with all school crossings now covered, while the full strength of wardens are expected back on duty next week

He thanked all involved for their “co-operation and understanding” and especially the relief wardens and members of the Civil Defence who assisted with covering the crossings at critical times.