Farmer and Fianna Fáil councillor near Leitrim village, Paddy Farrell, says it's needed due to the extremely wet summer and a severe fodder shortage.

That's according to local Fine Gael councillor Maeve Reynolds, who was speaking at a Leitrim County Council meeting yesterday.

The recently-elected councillor is one of four names in the race, ahead of the close of nominations later today.

Councillors signed off on it at their meeting yesterday, but concern was expressed by Independent councillor Des Guckian.

It follows his brother Denis's decision to quit politics, after 27 years in the Dáil as an Independent or Fine Gael TD.

The park is a popular destination among families and sees many pedestrians every day.

Today is National Slow Down Day, with gardai out in force clamping down on those breaking the law.

A total of 429 party members voted in the Clayton Hotel in Sligo.