The opening of a new fast food restaurant in Navan in Co. Meath has caused controversy.

KFC has been given planning permission for a new drive-thru restaurant close to the entrance of the Mercy primary and secondary schools in the town.

The proposal is being welcomed in some quarters, because it will create an estimated 40 jobs.

The single-storey drive-thru outlet also includes signage areas, 33 car parking spaces and landscaping works at the site.

The fast food outlet announced plans in March to create 1,600 jobs this year by opening more than 40 restaurants across Ireland and the UK. The fried-chicken chain said it plans to spend €40 million on the expansion.

Mary Mulligan is principal of St. Joseph's Convent of Mercy and has concerns about the potential effect a ready supply of fast food might have on her pupils' health. While Navan town councillor Shane Cassells says the jobs boost is good news for the town.

They both spoke to Breakfast here on Newstalk.