Minutes 2002
Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday 4th November 2002 in the Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Barrett,
- Barry,
- Branley,
- Bree,
- Cawley,
- Colleary,
- L. Conlon,
- M. Conlon,
- Conmy,
- Devins,
- Fleming,
- Fox,
- Gormley,
- Higgins,
- Leonard,
- MacManus,
- McGarry,
- McGuinn,
- McLoughlin,
- Murray,
- Parke,
- Perry,
- Queenan,
- E.Scanlon.
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
- Mr T. Caffrey, Director of Services
- Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
- Mr T. Kilfeather, Head of Finance
- Mr P. Forkan, Director of Services
- Mr S. Concannon, Director of Services
- Mr D. Tinney, County Librarian
- Mr B. Carolan, Senior Planner
- Ms M. Mc Connell, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr D. Breen, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer
- Ms F. Meagher, Senior Executive Planner
- Mr F. Mc Nabb, Administrative Officer
- Mr F. O’ Driscoll, Executive Engineer
- Ms M. Davidescu, Assistant Planner
- Ms C. Kenny, Staff Officer
- Ms F. Couch, Clerical Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
- The Cathaoirleach, Councillor P. Branley presided.
OPEN LOCAL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE:
The Cathaoirleach welcomed students from the Mercy College, who are the first of a number of secondary schools invitated to visit County Hall and meetings in progress to learn about the local government system as part of the Council’s Open Local Government Initiative.
MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF 07/10/02:
Proposed by Councillor R. Mc Guinn
Seconded by Councillor I. Fox
AND AGREED
“That the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council of 7th October 2002 be and hereby are confirmed”.
In response to Councillor D. Bree’s query regarding further report on Traveller Accommodation Programme, Ms M. Mc Connell, Senior Executive Officer advised that this will be available at the December Ordinary Meeting.
In response to Councillor D. Bree’s request for a progress report on the unauthorised development at Rosses Point, the Cathaoirleach advised that a report on this matter was being circulated. A discussion followed in relation to this matter.
MINUTES OF AREA MEETINGS:
Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Proposed by Councillor J. Cawley
AND AGREED
“That the minutes of the following Area Meetings:
- Sligo /Drumcliffe held on 04/06/2002
- Tubbercurry held on 05/06/2002
Be, and are all hereby confirmed”.
MINUTES OF SPC MEETINGS:
Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor J. Cawley
AND AGREED
“That the minutes of
- SPC3 held on 25 June 2002
- SPC 2 held on 7th August 2002
- SPC 1 held on 13th September 2002
Be, and are all hereby confirmed”.
DISPOSAL OF LAND AT 132 CARTRON POINT:
Proposed by Councillor T. Mc Loughlin
Seconded by Councillor J. Mc Garry
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council proceed with the disposal of land at 132 Cartron Point, Sligo to Patrick and Philomena Morrison in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, and the notice dated 14th October 2002”.
PART VIII OF THE LOCAL GOVT. (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGS. 2001: CONSTRUCTION OF HOUSE, SEPTIC TANK AND PERCOLATION AREA AT BALLYMEENEY TD., DROMORE WEST, CO. SLIGO.
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council in accordance with Part VIII of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 proceed with construction of house, septic tank and percolation area at Ballymeeny Td., Dromore West, Co. Sligo”.
PART VIII OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001: CONSTRUCTION OF EXTENSION TO HOUSE AT DOON TD., GURTEEN, CO. SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor J. Perry
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council in accordance with Part VIII of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 proceed with construction of extension to house at Doon Td., Gurteen, Co. Sligo”.
PART VIII OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001 CONSTRUCTION OF HOUSE, SEPTIC TANK AND PERCOLATION AREA AT LISSANEENY, SOOEY, CO. SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor J. Perry
Seconded by Councillor R Mc Guinn
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Council in accordance with Part VIII of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 proceed with construction of house, septic tank and percolation area at Lissaneeny, Sooey, Co. Sligo”.
TO AUTHORISE OVER EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2001
Proposed by Councillor L. Conlon
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
AND AGREED
“To authorise over expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2001 in accordance with Section 11 of the City and County Management (Amendment) Act, 1955”.
PRESENTATION BY THE SAMARITANS:
The Cathaoirleach welcomed Samaritan volunteers Eamon and Bernard to the meeting, who addressed the Members and made an appeal for a contribution of €50,000 to assist in the purchase and refurbishment of a new premises for the Samaritans from which to operate their services.
All of the Members welcomed the volunteers and commended the work of the Samaritans. Following a discussion it was
Proposed by Councillor J. Mc Garry
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council include the sum of €50,000 in the 2003 book of estimates specifically for the purpose of supporting the Samaritans submission for the purchase and reconstruction of a new premises at the Mall, Sligo”.
It was also
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council includes the sum of €50,000 in the forthcoming estimates as a once off payment to the Sligo branch of the Samaritans towards costs of new premises”.
DATE FOR BUDGET MEETING 2003:
Mr H. Kearns, County Manager indicated that the prescribed dates as set out by the Department for the holding of the 2003 Budget Meeting were from 25th November 2002 to 13th January 2003. Members were also advised that notification of the Council’s allocation under the Local Government Fund is not expected until December.
A discussion followed in relation to the matter, following which it was
Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To hold the Budget Meeting for 2003 on 13th January 2003”
As agreement was not reached in relation to the motion, the Cathaoirleach asked that a poll be taken.
For the Motion: Barry, Branley, Conlon L., Conlon M., Devins, Leonard, Mc Guinn, Queenan, Scanlon E.
Against the Motion: Barrett, Bree, Cawley, Conmy, Fleming, Fox, Gormley, Higgins, MacManus, McGarry, McLoughlin, Murray, Parke, Perry.
As the result was 9 for and 14 against the Cathaoirleach declared the Motion lost.
After a further discussion it was
Proposed by Councillor S MacManus
Seconded by Councillor A. Parke
AND AGREED
“That the Estimates Meeting of Sligo County Council be held on Tuesday 7th January 2003”.
JOINT MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AND OMAGH DISTRICT COUNCIL
Proposed by Councillor R. Mc Guinn
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To hold a joint meeting of Sligo County Council and Omagh District Council to be held in Sligo on 10th February 2003”.
STRANDHILL DRAFT LOCAL AREA PLAN
Ms. F. Meagher, Senior Executive Planner advised the Members that the Strandhill Draft Local Area Plan which will assist in shaping the future development of Strandhill was now being placed before the Members for their observations and approval to move to the next stage. Ms. M. Davidescu, Assistant Planner, gave a presentation outlining the background and process involved in the preparation of the draft plan.
In response to the Members queries the County Manager and Ms. F. Meagher, Senior Exec. Planner advised that the plan would facilitate future development of the car park and that progress on the sewerage scheme would be subject to funding becoming available.
The Members welcomed publication of the draft plan. In response to further queries Mr. B. Carolan, Senior Planner outlined that a programme in relation to the Local Area Plan process will be put to the Members in the future. He advised that an appropriate forum for discussing the Area Plans would be at the Area Committee Meetings.
Proposed by Councillor J. Mc Garry
Seconded by Councillor T. Mc Loughlin
AND AGREED
“That the Planning Authority now proceed to publish the Strandhill Draft Local Area Plan and invite submissions and observations thereon in Accordance with the provisions of S.20 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000.”
It was agreed to take items 18 and 43 next from the Agenda.
TOILET FACILITIES FOR OUTDOOR STAFF AT WEST SLIGO DEPOTS:
Councillor M. Barrett requested that the Council provide toilet facilities for the outdoor staff at the West Sligo Depots”.
In response Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer advised that the proposal is being actively considered by the Roads Department and negotiations are underway between Unions and outdoor staff in this regard.
WARNING LIGHTS ON R297 AT KILLEENDUFF N.S. AND RATHLEE N.S.
Councillor M. Barrett asked that the Council erect appropriate warning lights on the R297 at Killeenduff National School and Rathlee National School.
In response Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer advised that there are advance warning school signs for both schools erected on each side of the schools, and that the provision of warning lights at schools on Regional Roads can be considered under the 2003 Discretionary Grant Schemes.
TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES OUTSIDE CONVENT OF JESUS AND MARY SECONDARY SCHOOL, ENNISCRONE
Councillor J. Queenan asked about the allocation of funding to install traffic calming measures outside the Convent of Jesus and Mary Secondary School, Enniscrone,
In response Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer advised that it is proposed that the Area Engineer meet with the School Principal and the Board of Management to discuss the issue of traffic in the vicinity of the school. Mr Carroll also added that road markings have been provided recently beside the school on the Pier Road and Cliff Road.
LIBRARY AT ENNISCRONE:
Councillor J. Queenan asked when the new Library at Enniscrone would be opened.
In response Mr D. Tinney, County Librarian said that the anticipated opening date is Mid-December 2002 and that it will offer an enhanced service with six day opening and a fully computerised system.
ROAD ACCESS ISSUES AT COUNTY ROAD 36B FARNAHARPY, SKREEN
It was agreed that Councillor J. Perry’s motion be withdrawn.
PROVISION OF FUNDING FOR COUNTY SLIGO PIPE BAND
Councillor J. Perry asked the Council to consider making provision in the estimates for funding the County Sligo Pipe Band.
Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services reported that funding could be considered for 2003 in the context of an application to the Community and Voluntary Grant Scheme 2003. Ms Clarke further advised that Sligo Borough Council has made a contribution to the Band.
SPEED LIMIT SIGN ON STATION ROAD, COOLANEY:
Councillor M. Gormley asked the Council to extend the speed limit sign on the Station Road, Coolaney.
In response, T. Carroll, Senior Engineer advised that this proposal will be considered as part of an overall review of speed limits in the County, which is currently underway. Mr Carroll further advised that these proposals will be submitted to the next Area Committee meeting for members consideration.
INTERIM REPORT OF THE FLOOD TRIBUNAL
Councillor D. Bree requested that the Council call on the DPP, the Garda Commissioner, the Criminal Assets Bureau, the Revenue Commissioners and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement to take appropriate action against those individuals, many linked with Fianna Fail, who made or received corrupt payments and who lied or obstructed the work of the Tribunal.
Following a discussion on the matter the Motion was agreed.
PLANNING FILE 01/549
Councillor D. Bree asked the County Manager for a full and comprehensive report on planning file 01/549.
Mr P. Forkan, Director of Services outlined the Council’s decision to grant planning permission in relation to this proposed development and advised that An Bord Pleanala overturned the decision.
The County Manager noted advised that the planning process involved consideration of a wide range of issues, often conflicting, and that the decision made could only be based on reasonable consideration of all those issues. The County Manager further stated that the application was handled fairly and properly and that it is the role of An Bord Pleanala to stand as appeal if necessary.
VOTES OF SYMPATHY
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Mary Stenson and family on the death of her husband, Martin”.
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Annie Keenan and family on the death of her brother, Jim Brehony”.
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Martin Murphy on the death of his brother, Fr. Vincent Murphy”.
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Dominic and Thomas Gilmartin on the death of their father, Dominic”.
Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Seosamh O’ Luana on the death of his wife, Kay”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor J. Perry
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Donie Gilmartin on the death of his father, Dominic”.
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to the family representatives of Kevin Gaoaghan.
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Martin Murphy on the death of his brother, Fr. Vincent”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor P. Conmy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Ann Mulderrig on the death of Robert Mc Cann”.
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Sean and Jeanette on the death of Jennifer Tempany”.
Proposed by Councillor R. Mc Guinn
Seconded by Councillor T. Mc Loughlin
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Joe Delaney on the death of his wife, Moya”.
VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be expressed to Michael Collins on his appointment as Sligo Person of the Year”.
Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor J. Perry
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be expressed to Eastern Harps Football Team on their win in the County Senior Football Championship and also the league final”.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS OF CORRESPONDENCE CIRCULATED AT THE MEETING
- Strandhill Draft Local Area Plan, Supplementary Documentation
- Report on unauthorised development at Rosses Point
- Details of forthcoming conferences
- Letter dated 31st October 2002 from Director of the General Council of County Councils regarding current position on issues of immediate concern to Local Authority Members.
- Minutes of Management Team Meeting of 30th September 2002
- CPG minutes of meeting of 30/09/02
- Invitation to attend public meeting to discuss the future of Sligo Goal
END OF MEETING
It was agreed to defer the remaining items 21-42, 44-54 to the Special meeting of the Council to be held on 11th November 2002.
The meeting concluded at 5.55pm.
Meeting Date 04/11/2002