Minutes 2006

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council Held on 12th June 2006 at 11.00am in the Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Baker,
Barrett,
Barry,
Bree,
Cawley,
Colleary,
Conmy,
Devins,
Fleming,
Fox,
Gormley,
Healy McGowan,
Henry,
Higgins,
Kilgannon,
Lundy,
MacManus,
McGrath,
McLoughlin,
Mullaney,
Murray,
Queenan,
Sherlock

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

Mr T. Kilfeather, Deputy County Manager
Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
Mr S. Concannon, Director of Services
Mr P. Forkan, Director of Services
Mr D. Breen, A/Director of Services
Mr M. Leydon, Acting Head of Finance
Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer
Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer
Mr B. Gavin, Project Engineer
Mr J. Moran, Administrative Officer
Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
Ms J. McNamara, Administrative Officer
Ms E. Concannon, Senior Executive Engineer
Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer
Mr D. Tinney, County Librarian
Mr C. McNamara, Staff Officer
Ms M. Collery, Clerical Officer
Ms L. Conlon, Clerical Officer
Mr F. MacNabb, Meetings Administrator

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor P. Barry presided.

Proposed by Councillor J. Devins
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

To suspend Standing Orders for 15 minutes to discuss site meeting at Rosses Point in relation to PL: 05/1189.

After a discussion on this matter it was:

Proposed by Councillor Devins
Seconded by Councillor McLoughlin

AND AGREED

"That Considering the many arguments for planning approval on site at Rosses Point Road (John Mullaney), a consultation process between SCC and the applicants agent be initiated immediately to find an agreement for the development of one residential unit".

1. MINUTES OF SPC3 MEETING HELD ON 13 OCTOBER 2005:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

"That the minutes of SPC3 meeting held on 13 October 2005 be and are hereby confirmed".

2. MINUTES OF SLIGO-STRANDHILL AREA MEETING HELD ON 5 DECEMBER 2005:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan

AND AGREED

"That the minutes of the Sligo-Strandhill Area meeting held on 5 December 2005 be and are hereby confirmed".

3. MINUTES OF SLIGO-STRANDHILL AREA MEETING HELD ON 20 FEBRUARY 2006:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan

AND AGREED

"That the minutes of the Sligo-Strandhill Area meeting held on 20 February 2006 be and are hereby confirmed".

4. MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE AREA MEETING HELD ON 6 APRIL 2006:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor J. Sherlock

AND AGREED

"That the minutes of the Ballymote Area meeting held on 6 April 2006 be and are hereby confirmed".

5. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 8 MAY 2006:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

"That the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 8 May 2006 be and are hereby confirmed".

6. MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 22 MAY 2006:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

"That the minutes of the Special Meeting held on 22 May 2006 be and are hereby confirmed".

7. SECTION 183: DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT RATHMAGURRY, CURRY, CO. SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor A. Colleary

AND AGREED

"To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001 the disposal of property at Rathmagurry, Curry, Co. Sligo to John P. Brennan".

8. SECTION 183: DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT TULLY, KEASH, BALLYMOTE, CO. SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

"To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001 the disposal of property at Tully, Keash, Ballymote, Co. Sligo to Dahila Vitez".

9. FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF WATERPOINT, ENNISCRONE:

Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council increase its contribution towards Phase 2 of Waterpoint, Enniscrone from €300,000 to €640,000, the amount to be financed from the proceeds of financial contributions".

10. TEMPORARY OVERDRAFT FOR THE HALF-YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2006:

Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

"That pursuant to Section 106 of the Local Government Act 2001 and subject to the sanction of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Sligo County Council hereby authorises the borrowing of a sum not exceeding €4.0M by way of temporary overdraft for the period to 31st December 2006".

11. LOAN OF €5.0M FOR LAND ACQUISITION FOR HOUSING PURPOSES:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

"That pursuant to Section 106 of the Local Government Act 2001 and subject to the sanction of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Sligo County Council hereby authorises the raising of a loan of €5.0M from the Housing Finance Agency for advance land acquisition for housing purposes.

Following a request from Councillors, Director Of Services, Ms Dorothy Clarke agreed to provide Councillors with a report setting out details of the Councils land bank.

12. LOAN OF €5.0M FOR HOUSING PURPOSES:

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

"That pursuant to Section 106 of the Local Government Act 2001 and subject to the sanction of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Sligo County Council hereby authorises the raising of a loan of €5.0M from the Housing Finance Agency for housing purposes".

13. PLANNING CASE PL06/69:

The meeting agreed to Councillor. Brees request to defer this item to the July Ordinary meeting.

14. UPGRADE OF SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT IN BALLINACARROW:

Councillor M. Gormley asked for a progress report on the upgrade of the sewerage treatment plant at Ballinacarrow.

In reply, Mr K. Larkin Senior Engineer said that Ballinacarrow has been bundled together with Mullaghmore, Ballygawley and Cliffoney WwTW's for procurement as a DBO bundle.

The brief for the appointment of a Client's Representative was finally approved by DoEHLG in mid- February of this year. "Expressions of Interest" were invited by public advertisement and the closing date for receipt of expressions of interest was Thursday 8th June. These submissions will now be assessed and a Board established to assess all compliant candidates and recommend one successful candidate. As such it is hoped to have the appointment of the Client's Representative made soon.

15. AMBULANCE SERVICE IN SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley

AND AGREED

"That this Council calls on the HSE for a detailed report on: -

The Ambulance Service provided to the people of Sligo
First responder vehicle, Tubbercurry - Is this vehicle operating 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year?
What are the proposals for Ambulance bases in the County?"

It was further Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley and Seconded by Councillor D. Bree AND AGREED that the following amendment be added to the motion as point (d) "Confirmation that Automated External Defibrillators are fitted in all Ambulances that service the Sligo Area.

16. APPOINTMENT OF ADDITIONAL DRIVER TESTERS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

"To request the Minister for Transport Mr Cullen to fund the appointment of additional Driver Testers rather that threatening to deprive learner drivers of their rights to use our roads".

With the agreement of the meeting Items 17 and 21 were taken at this stage.

17. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES IN BALLINACARROW:

Councillor M. Fleming asked that Sligo County Council seek funding from the NRA to install traffic calming measures in Ballinacarrow Village.

In response, Mr T. Carroll Senior Engineer said that there is no provision in the estimates 2006 for traffic calming on N17 in Ballinacarrow. Improvements to signage on approaches to village were undertaken in 2004. The draft proposals for speed limits in the county include for a reduction of maximum permissible speed in the village from 60kph to 50kph.

21. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES IN BALLYMOTE:

Councillor P. McGrath asked the County Manager as a matter of urgency to provide traffic calming measures in Ballymote.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll Senior Engineer said there is no provision in the estimates 2006 for traffic calming measures in Ballymote. However, the draft speed limit proposals for county Sligo include for a revision of speed limit zones in Ballymote and its environs.

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray

AND AGREED

"To request money from the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government for traffic calming measures in the Ballymote Electoral Area".

18. SPORTS AND RECREATION FACILITIES IN STRANDHILL:

Councillor D. Bree asked if a request has been received from the Strandhill Community Development Association seeking the Councils permission to apply for Planning Permission to develop sports and recreational facilities on the lands west of the Airport Road in Strandhill, which are zoned for that purpose and to ask the Manager when is it expected that the Council will make a decision on the request".

Mr D. Breen, Acting DOS said that discussions have taken place with a representative of Strandhill Community Development Association relating to their plans for the use of Council lands at Strandhill for sporting and recreational use. It was indicated at the time that firm proposals would have to be put to the Council including details of the management of the facilities before the matter be formally put to the Council. The Council could however agree in principle to provide a long term lease to the local community subject to agreement on detailed design and proposals for management of the facilities in due course.

19. NEW LIBRARY BUILDING IN BALLYMOTE:

Councillor P. McGrath asked the County Manager for an update regarding a new library building for Ballymote.

In response, Ms D. Clarke, DOS outlined the current position of the project.

The Old Cinema building in Ballymote was purchased in 2001, as the proposed site for a purpose built library for Ballymote and its hinterland.

A proposal for a new library in Ballymote was submitted to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for Approval in Principle in May 2003. At the time of this submission in 2003, Ballymote Library development was placed as second in terms of priority, after the development of the proposed new Sligo Central and County Library.

Given the unfortunate delay with the Sligo project it is now proposed to run both applications in parallel. The current application for Ballymote Library is still active with the Department and will come up for consideration when the next tranche of Library Capital funding is announced in the autumn.

In the meantime, the feasibility of including additional County Council services on the Old Cinema site, such as, the Area Offices and car parking, is currently being examined.

20. PUBLIC LIGHTING IN KEASH:

Councillor P. McGrath asked Sligo County Council to provide public lighting at Keash.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that a sum of €50,000 has been included in the Roadworks Scheme 2006 for upgrade of public lighting on non-national route network in the county.

Priority is being given to the upgrade and provision of public lighting along sections of new footpaths constructed as part of roadworks programme. All other proposals will be considered on their merits.

22. RELOCATION OF SLIGO FIRE STATION:

This item was deferred with the permission of the Cathaoirleach.

23. TAKING IN CHARGE OF SEA CREST ESTATE:

This item was deferred with the permission of the Cathaoirleach.

24. PUBLIC SAFETY ON ALBERT BRIDGE ON BRIDGE STREET:

Councillor D. Healy McGowan asked the Council what provisions they intend to put in place for public safety on Albert Bridge on Bridge Street.

In reply, Mr T. Brennan Senior Engineer said the Bridge referred to (also known as New Bridge) crosses the Garavogue River in Sligo City centre and links Bridge Street with Thomas Street on the South side. The bridge is listed on the Record of Protected Structures and is the oldest bridge in Sligo City. It is described as a 7 arched random coursed stone bridge dating form circa 1680 and forms an important artery for vehicular traffic on what is a regional road circulating on the eastern side of Sligo City centre. It currently facilitates two lanes of traffic and a footpath on the West side. There is no footpath or pedestrian facilities on the eastern side and the bridge in its existing state is not wide enough to accommodate such a footpath. Considerable numbers of pedestrians including some with disabilities require to cross the bridge on the east side and the lack of a footpath causes difficulties. Any proposals to widen or alter this structure must take into account the heritage aspects of this protected structure.

Proposals to improve the situation have included:

Widen the bridge
Cantilever a footpath on the outside of the existing parapet.
Provide a new pedestrian bridge along side the existing structure.

Any solution could cost from €500,000 to €1,000,000. An application was made to the Dormant Accounts Fund in recent years for funding to carry out alterations to the bridge on the grounds of accessibility issues but was unsuccessful.

The provision of adequate pedestrian facilities across this bridge should form part of any Traffic Plan or Strategy for Sligo City Centre. However funding would be required for a preliminary investigation and preliminary design which would identify the most cost effective solution which would also best satisfy the aesthetic and heritage issues involved. Once the most appropriate solution is identified and costed, substantial funding would be required for construction.

25. DEPUTATION TO MEET MINISTER FOR HEALTH:

Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

AND AGREED

"That this Council condemn the Minister for Health, Mary Harney for refusing to meet a deputation regards radiotherapy and also for her attack on nurses who work so hard in our hospitals".

26. FREE CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING FOR ALL WOMEN:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Health and Children to introduce free cervical cancer screening for all women and to reduce the length of time awaiting results”.

27. FUNDING FOR LOCAL HEALTH PROJECTS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council welcome the approval given by the Departments of Health and Finance, the HSE had sanctioned a Capital Programme of €40 million for nine local health projects for Sligo and North Leitrim".

28. UPGRADE OF SECOND SEA ROAD:

Councillor S. Kilgannon asked what plans if any Sligo County Council have to upgrade the Second Sea Road in the interests of road safety.

In reply, Mr. T. Carroll Senior Engineer said that Local Road L-75011-0 in Knappaghmore will be surface dressed as part of 2006 Roadworks Programme.

29. CONTINUATION OF ROAD WORKS AT HUGHES BRIDGE AND BUNDORAN ROAD:

Councillor S. Kilgannon asked the Director of Services what funding the NRA have made available to continue road works at Hughes Bridge and Bundoran Road as part of the continuing work of the Mid Block Route.

In reply, Mr Tom Brennan Senior Engineer said that this section of national primary route forms a separate scheme to that of the Sligo Inner relief route. It was included as part of the Route selection study completed earlier this year for the N15 National primary road realignment from Sligo to the county Boundary. This section from Hughes Bridge to Shannon Eighter (1.6km) forms construction phase 1 of this overall 26km long project. It is envisaged that Hughes Bridge will be widened and the existing N4/N15 Bundoran Road will be widened to dual carriage standard. The National Roads Authority has allocated in 2006 a grant of €100,000 towards the carrying out of a preliminary design of Phase 1. Preliminary ground survey work will be completed by the end of June and this will allow the preliminary design to be prepared. Further progress towards completion of detailed design and commencement of construction will depend on further funding from the NRA in future years.

30. AMOUNT OF DEVELOPMENT CHARGES/LEVIES COLLECTED SINCE 2001:

Councillor D. Bree asked that the Council be provided with a report outlining the amount of development charges/levies collected each year from 2001, and the amount of charges/levies still outstanding from developments where construction has commenced.

In reply, Ms Marie Leydon Acting Head of Finance gave the following report:-

**Development Levies/charges received**
Year	Charges
2001	370,574
2002	669,455
2003	1,532,380
2004	1,841,333
2005	4,309,130
Total	8,722,872

Following the setting up of the Enforcement section in 2002, the council put a system in place which linked the submission of commencement notices with pre-commencement conditions, including financial contributions and bonds. In addition to this inspections were also carried out by staff on an ongoing basis. This arrangement has proven to very successful in ensuring that contact is made with developers before work starts.

The financial contributions require the payment of specified amount to the council, to be paid in phases as agreed by the council prior to commencement of development. This practice has ensured that arrangements are put in place for the payment of all contributions prior to commencement of the development.

At the present time agreements are in place in respect of all developments where the council is aware that development has commenced. The council is satisfied that at any given time the monies outstanding should not be of a significant level.

All local authorities are currently engaged in the process of bringing together the information held in the iPlan (Planning System) and the Agresso (Financial Management) system to ensure a fully integrated system of managing contributions levied, collected and due but not paid. Sligo County Council have committed resources to completing this project as soon as possible and when this is finalised we will advise the members of any charges/levies still outstanding from developments where construction has commenced.

With the agreement of the meeting Items 31 and 37 were taken at this stage.

31 AND 37 COSTS OF WATER METERS TO FARMS IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

“That Sligo County Council now asks the Department of Environment to assume full responsibility for the full costs of the provision of all water meters to farms in County Sligo”.

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

"That this Council calls on the Minister for the Environment, Heritage, and Local Government Mr Dick Roche, to cover the costs associated with water meters”.

After a discussion on the motions above it was:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That Item 31 on the agenda of June 12th be amended to include a request to meet with the Minister of the Environment/or senior representatives of his Department, in relation to that Departments funding in total the costs of water meters to farm holding in Co. Sligo”.

It was agreed that the statement in relation to Sligo County Council Water Conservation Programme as outlined by Mr. K. Larkin Senior Engineer be circulated to members.

32. PUBLIC SAFETY AT WOODBROOK HEIGHTS:

Councillor G. Mullaney asked that Sligo County Council put double yellow lines at the back entrance to Woodbrook Heights on the left hand side across the road from No. 20 in the interests of public safety.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll Senior Engineer said that this location would require the introduction of bye-laws to facilitate the laying of double yellow lines. It is deemed not to be an appropriate location for the introduction of bye-laws and the Councillor should liaise with Area Engineer in relation to resolving the problem.

33. SAFETY BARRIER ON REGIONAL ROAD R284 AT CARROWNADARGNEY:

Councillor G. Mullaney asked that Sligo County Council provide a safety barrier on Regional Road R284 at Carrownadargney 2km from Geevagh Cross in the interests of public safety.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll said there is no provision in the Roadworks Scheme 2006 for the erection of safety fence at this location on Regional Road R284 at Carrownadargney. It could be included for consideration as part of Draft 2007 Roadworks Scheme.

34. EXTENSION OF SPEED LIMIT ON KNOCKBEG ROAD, COLLOONEY:

Councillor G. Mullaney asked that Sligo County Council extend the speed limit on Knockbeg Road, Collooney to Owenmore View and to put lights and footpaths in place in the interests of public safety".

In reply, Mr T. Carroll Senior Engineer said that the draft speed limit proposals currently on display include for the extension of the 50 kph limit zone for a distance of 880 metres south-west of its junction with St Mary's Green Road.

It is also proposed to improve this section of road (Old N17) under Road Restoration programme in current year. It is also proposed to include a programme for footpath renewal and public lighting upgrade in the 2007 Draft Roadworks Scheme.

35. PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE MURDER OF Councillor EDDIE FULLERTON:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council calls for a public inquiry into the murder, by unionist paramilitaries, of Councillor Eddie Fullerton in County Donegal in 1991".

36. PURCHASE OF PROPERTY AT MOYGARA, GURTEEN, CO. SLIGO:

Councillor D. Bree asked the County Manager to explain how and why the Council purchased a property in South Sligo, which was not constructed in accordance with planning permission and which is an unauthorised development under the Planning and Development Act. (Ref: Contract 744)

Ms D. Clarke, DOS replied as follows:-

In September 2001 Sligo County Council agreed to purchase a site at Moygara, Gurteen, Co Sligo from a developer – the intention was that the developer would construct a house on the site for the Council.
Full planning permission was received by the developer in respect of this dwelling house on 2 October 2000 – PL 00/966.
A Contract for the purchase of the site, and a building agreement for the construction of the house were entered into in October 2002.
The house was completed and allocated to a tenant in April 2004.
From an inspection carried out by the council, the dwelling house has been built substantially in accordance with planning permission. There is an issue with sheds and site boundaries, and these matters are being addressed by our solicitors. Until they revert back to us we cannot comment further.

Councillor Bree agreed to defer this motion until the next meeting when it is hoped the relevant information is available.

38. SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT IN GURTEEN AND COOLANEY/ROCKFIELD:

Councillor M. Gormley asked the Director of Services when is it proposed to commence work on the upgrade of:

Sewerage treatment plant in Gurteen
Coolaney/Rockfield water supply scheme.

Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer replied as follows:

Gurteen

Tenders were invited for the construction of a WwTW''s in Gurteen. These tenders were assessed and a recommendation as to most successful way forwarded for approval. It is not possible at this point to predict, with any certainty, when or if the project, as currently defined, will go ahead.

Coolaney/Rockfield

The proposal to improve the water supply in Coolaney/Rockfield was put forward not on the basis of an immediate and present need but on basis of an anticipated deficit in the quality of the supply when the expected increase in housing construction is in place. This is likely to follow on the completion of the new WwTW's currently under construction in Coolaney and due to be complete in late Summer.

There will be a considerable period, possibly years, between the commissioning of that facility and the anticipated increased demand on water supply. As such Water Services is satisfied that if the proposal goes forward to construction in 2007 or even 2008 that will be sufficient to address the needs.

However as these things are continually monitored, if there appears to be a developing deficit in water quantity/pressure into the locality, the proposal can be fast–forwarded.

39. EXTRA FUNDING TO CARRY OUT ENVIRONMENTAL WORKS:

Councillor M. Fleming asked the Director of Services to provide extra funds to carry out environmental works in LA housing estates in Collooney, Tubbercurry, Ballisodare, Ballymote & Enniscrone as per contract with Environmental Co-operative.

In reply, Ms D. Clarke DOS said that in early 2006, tenders were sought for the supply of environmental services for five designated Council Estates within the county. They included Ballymote, Ballysadare, Enniscrone, Tubbercurry and Collooney. The type of works included in the specification were grass cutting (22 no. on each estate), maintenance of flower beds, shrubs, trees and signs, weed control on hard services, litter control and the organisation of meetings with residents to encourage community pride.

Two tenders were received for the works and the contract was awarded to the lowest tender being "Sligo Community Environmental Maintenance Co-operative Society Ltd" for the sum of €57,610 inclusive of V.A.T. Due to a budget allowance of €20,000 for environmental services in the current year it is intended to terminate the contract once works to this value have being reached. Increased funding to bridge the shortfall between budget allowance and tender prices for the above services can be considered in the 2007 budget estimates.

After a discussion it was:-

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

"That Motion No.39 of Sligo County Council meeting for Monday June 12th 2006 be referred to the next SPC meeting dealing with Housing".

With the agreement of the meeting Items 40 and 44 were taken at this stage.

40. AND 44. REALIGNMENT OF NATIONAL PRIMARY ROAD N17:

Councillor M. Fleming and Councillor J. Lundy requested the Minister for Transport and the NRA to allocate funds necessary to carry out realignment of National Primary road N17 as a matter of urgency and also requested a report from the Director of Services on the progress of planning for Tubbercurry bypass.

Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that a sum of €400,000 has been provided by N.R.A. in 2006 to advance N17 Tubbercurry By-Pass through phase 4 of Planning Process. This phase included for preliminary design, preparation of environmental studies and CPO documentation.

These preparatory works and studies will be completed by the end of 2006. Approval must be then sought to progress scheme to next phase, phase 5 i.e. tender documents preparation and proceeding to tender.

41. INSTALLATION OF ADDITIONAL LIGHTING ON REGIONAL ROAD R294:

Councillor M. Fleming sought the installation of additional public lighting on Regional Road R294 each side of Gurteen village.

Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that a sum of €50,000 has been provided in Roadworks Scheme 2006 for upgrade of public lighting on non-national route networks in county.

Priority is being given to the upgrade and provision of public lighting along sections of new footpaths constructed as part of Roadworks programme. All other proposals will be considered on their merits.

42. CAR PARKS AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE FUTURE:

Councillor J. Lundy asked that Sligo County Council purchase any available lands at Tubbercurry Railway station to provide for car parks, park and ride and industrial development in the future.

Mr P. Forkan, DOS said that a Plan is being developed at the moment for Tubbercurry by the Forward Planning Unit and these can be taken into consideration at this time.

43. R294 FROM TUBBERCURRY TO COUNTY BOUNDARY AT LOUGH TALT:

Councillor J. Lundy asked that Sligo County Council provide funding to complete the road surfacing on R294 from Tubbercurry to County boundary at Lough Talt.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll Senior Engineer stated that a sum of €291,000.00 has been provided for the strengthening and improvements of sections of R294 at Drumartin and Gortersluin from Tubbercurry to Lough Talt. These works have recently been undertaken.

Further improvements are scheduled to be undertaken at sections of route at Lough Talt in 2007. All these improvements are being undertaken under the 3 year Road Restoration Programme approved at local electoral area meetings and funded by the DoEHLG.

45. DEPARTMENT CIRCULAR REGARDING P&D REGULATIONS 2001:

This item was deferred with the permission of the Cathaoirleach

46. VOTES OF SYMPATHY

Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to The Flynn Family on the death of Edward Flynn".

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Joe Kelly on the death of his mother, Delia Kelly".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Sean McGloin on the death of his wife, Mary".

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Bridie Marren on the death of her sister, Celia Brennan".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to John O'Donnell on the death of his father, Gerry".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Mary O'Flaherty and family on the death of her husband, Colm".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Jack Phillips on the death of his sister, Janie Wynne".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Kathleen Kivlehan on the death of her brother, Pakie Gavigan".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Ann Carty on the death of her sister, Celia Brennan".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Kevin Gormally on the death of his sister, Claire Lynch".

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Willie Farrell on the death of his brother, John".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Una Gonley on the death of her husband, Liam".

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Bridie Marren on the death of her sister, Celia Brennan".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Frank Wynne on the death of his mother, Janie Wynne".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Myra Regan on the death of her sister, Phyllis McGoldrick".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Peadar Gavaghan on the death of his wife, Maura".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to John O'Flaherty on the death of his father, Colm".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Kathleen Kivlehan on the death of her brother, Pakie Gavigan".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Maureen Walsh on the death of her brother, Brendan Howley".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to John O'Donnell on the death of his father, Gerry".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Marie Tansey on the death of her father, TP Roche".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Brendan Wimsey on the death of his uncle, Michael Galvin".

Proposed by Councillor S Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor P Barry

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Pauline McNiffe on the death of her husband, Tony”.

Proposed by Councillor G Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor J Sherlock

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Patricia McCann on the death of her husband, Sean".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Michael and Bridgie Clancy on the death of their daughter, Breege".

Proposed by Councillor M Gormley
Seconded by Councillor A Colleary

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Mary Teresa McGettrick on the death of her sister, Patricia Mulholland".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Tommy Hunt on the death of his wife, Camilla ".

Proposed by Councillor Michael Fleming
Seconded by Councillor Aidan Colleary

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Peter Brennan on the death of his brother, Tom".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Kathleen McGoldrick on the death of her brother, Fr Thomas Egan".
"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Fergus Durcan on the death of his father Jack Durcan".
That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Christina Callaghan on the death of her husband, Michael".

Proposed by Councillor Michael Fleming
Seconded by Councillor Aidan Colleary

AND AGREED

"That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Catherine McCann on the death of her sister, Camilla”.

47. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

"That a vote of congratulations be extended to Darragh Tuffy, Frankfad, Enniscrone on the occasion of his signing as a professional with Blackburn Rovers."

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

"That a vote of congratulations be extended to St Attracta's Community College on winning the All-Ireland Colleges 'B' Football Final".

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor A. Colleary

AND AGREED

"That a vote of congratulations be extended to St Attracta's Community School, Tubbercurry on winning the All-Ireland Senior (B) Football Championship also to the captain David Kelly, Team Managers – Anthony Brennan and Pat Kilcoyne, Sponsors John and Fiona Brennan, Principal Willie Ruane, Staff and All the parents".

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor P. Conmy

AND AGREED

"That a vote of congratulation be extended to the Board of Ireland West Airport, Knock, Co. Mayo on their success to date and pivotal role it plays in developing the infrastructure of the West and communications internationally".

It was also agreed to invite the CEO of Ireland West Airport Knock to address a meeting of Sligo County Council.

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

"That a vote of congratulations be extended to Kilmactranny National School, Boyle, Co. Sligo on winning the Cumman na mBunscoil girls final and coming second in the boys competition".

48. CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

"That Councillors Henry & Higgins be nominated to attend the Synge Summer School in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow from 2nd – 8th July 2006."

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

"That Councillors Baker, Lundy & Queenan be nominated to attend the Byrne-Perry Summer School in Gorey, Co. Wexford from 23rd – 25th June 2006".

Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

"That Councillors Fleming & Mullaney be nominated to attend the Omagh-Sligo Transportation Conference in Omagh on 19th June 2006."

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

AND AGREED

"That Councillors Kilgannon, Queenan, Sherlock & Barry be nominated to attend the seminar entitled 'Enhancing an Enterprise Culture – The Role of Local Authorities' organised by Clare County Council in Ennis, Co. Clare on 25th & 26th May 2006."

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

"That Councillor Baker, Lundy & Queenan be nominated to attend the seminar entitled 'Exercising your Mental Health' organised by Kerry Mental Health Association in Killarney, Co. Kerry on 26th & 27th May 2006."

49. CORRESPONDENCE:

All items of correspondence were noted.

Councillor M. Gormley expressed disappointment with the Department of Transport regarding upgrading of Regional Road No. 308 (Coolaney-Collooney Road)

ANY OTHER BUSINESS: ADDITIONAL ITEMS CIRCULATED AT THE MEETING:

List of Forthcoming Conferences
Reply dated 2 June 06 from Department of Finance re: hiring of contractors.
Reply dated 6 June 06 from Department of Transport re: upgrading of Regional Road No. 308
Invitation to Omagh - Sligo Transportation Conference – 19th June 2006

END OF MEETING:

The meeting ended at 4.10pm

Meeting Date 12/06/2006