Minutes 2006

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council Held on 16th January 2006 at 2.00pm 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,
Leonard,
Lundy,
Mac Manus,
McGarry,
McGrath,
Mullaney,
Murray,
Queenan,
Sherlock

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
Mr T. Caffrey, Director of Services
Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
Mr P. Forkan, Director of Services
Mr S. Concannon, Director of Services
Mr T. Kilfeather, Head of Finance
Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer
Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer
Mr P. Flanagan, Senior Executive Engineer
Mr D. Breen, Senior Executive Officer
Mr J. McHugh, Senior Engineer
Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
Ms C. Feeney, Senior Staff Officer
Mr C. Colleary, Veterinary Surgeon
Mr P. Coyle, Chief Fire Officer
Mr C. McNamara, Staff Officer
Ms M. Collery, Clerical Officer
Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor P. Barry presided.

1. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 5 DECEMBER 2005:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the ordinary meeting held on 5 December 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

2. MINUTES OF THE SLIGO/DRUMCLIFFE AREA MEETING HELD ON 19 JULY 05:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the Sligo/Drumcliffe area meeting held on 19 July 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

3. MINUTES OF SLIGO/DRUMCLIFFE AREA MEETING HELD ON 26 SEPTEMBER 2005:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the Sligo /Drumcliffe area meeting held on 26 September 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

4. MINUTES OF DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON 5 OCTOBER 2005:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the Dromore West area meeting held on 5 October 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

5. MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE AREA MEETING HELD ON 6 OCTOBER 2005;

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the Ballymote area meeting held on 6 October 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

6. MINUTES OF SPC2 MEETING HELD ON 28 FEBRUARY 2005:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the SPC2 meeting held on 28 February 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

7. MINUTES OF SPC2 MEETING HELD ON 2 JUNE 2005:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the SPC2 meeting held on 2 June 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

8. MINUTES OF SPC2 MEETING HELD ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2005:

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

AND AGREED

“That the minutes of the SPC2 meeting held on 15 September 2005 be and are hereby confirmed”.

9. SECTION 183: DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 9 THE NEST, TUBBERCURRY, CO. SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 9 The Nest, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo to Kevin Mooney”.

10. PART 8: CONSTRUCTION OF EXTENSION TO WATERPOINT, ENNISCRONE, CO. SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations 2001 proceed with the development of Phase 2 of Waterpoint, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo”.

11. PART 8 REGS 2001: REALIGNMENT OF REGIONAL ROAD R284 AT BALLYDAWLEY/UNION:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 the proposed realignment of Regional Road R284 at Ballydawley/Union, Co. Sligo”.

12. PART 8 REGS 2001: REALIGNMENT OF REGIONAL ROAD R294 AT MULLAGHROE:

Proposed by Councillor J. Sherlock
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 the proposed realignment of Regional Road R294 at Mullaghroe, Co. Sligo”.

13. APPOINTMENT OF 3 MEMBERS TO THE REGIONAL HEALTH FORUM WEST

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley

AND AGREED

“That Councillor A. Colleary be appointed to the Regional Health Forum West”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillor P. Barry be appointed to the Regional Health Forum West”.

Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Councillor D. Bree be appointed to the Regional Health Forum West”.

14. POLLING SCHEME FOR COUNTY SLIGO:

Mr F MacNabb, Meetings Administrator, informed the meeting that 2 submissions had been received.

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor J. McGarry

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, having considered representations made in accordance with articles 4 (1)(a) and 4 (1)(b) of the Electoral (Polling Schemes) Regulations 2005, adopt the draft polling scheme subject to the following amendments in the Sligo / Strandhill electoral area - O’Dwyer Court, Cranmore Road contained in the polling district of Sligo East Ward No 1 shall be transferred to the polling district of Sligo East Ward No 3.”

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Jinks Avenue be included in the new proposed polling station at Merville Community Centre”.

Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, agree to include the submission of Cllr Jim McGarry in regard to Merville Community Centre - that is to have Jinks Avenue residents included to vote at Merville Centre”.

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council recommends to the County Registrar that a polling station be opened at St. Anne’s which would include the electors in the streets named in submission by Cllr Chris Mac Manus”.

Proposed by Councillor J. Sherlock
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council adopt the draft polling scheme subject to the following amendments in respect of the Ballymote electoral area”

The polling place for Cloonamahon polling district shall be Cloonamahon.
The polling place for Highwood polling district shall be Highwood.
The polling place for Killaraght polling district shall be Killaraght.
The polling place for Drumfin polling district shall be Knockmina.

Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council adopt the draft polling scheme subject to the following amendments in the Dromore electoral area”

The polling place for Castleconnor East polling district shall be Stokane.

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, adopt the draft polling scheme subject to the following amendments in the Sligo / Drumcliffe electoral area”

The polling place for Rossinver East polling district shall be Hollyfield.

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council adopt the draft polling scheme subject to the following amendments in the Tubbercurry electoral area”

The polling place for the polling district of Leitrim shall be Achonry.
The polling place for the polling district of Kilfree shall be Annaghamore.
The polling place for the polling district of Breencorragh shall be Castlerock.
The polling place for the polling district of Killoran shall be Killoran.
The polling place for the polling district of Glendarragh shall be Drimina.
The polling place for the polling district of Killaville shall be Killaville.

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

AND AGREED

“That Highwood polling station remain open”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Cloonamahon, Knockmina and Killaraght remain open”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, having complied with the provisions of Articles 4 and 5 of the Electoral (Polling Schemes) Regulations 2005, we Sligo County Council in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 1992, the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1996, the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2001 and the European Parliament Elections Act 1997, hereby make the Scheme subject to the Resolutions passed in respect thereof at this meeting, and declare that the Scheme shall come into operation as and from the 15 February 2006.

It is further resolved that the Common Seal of Sligo County Council be affixed to the Scheme”.

15. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AND THE FOOD SAFETY AUTHORITY:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the making of an agreement between Sligo County Council and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland requiring the Council to carry out the functions of the Food Safety Authority as set out in the Service Contract”.

Cllr A. Higgins asked that he be recorded as dissenting.

16. VARIATION OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN:

This item was deferred with the permission of the Cathaoirleach.

17. THIRD LEVEL GRANTS:

Proposed by Councillor J. Mc Garry
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Education, Ms Mary Hanafin to undertake a reform of maintenance grants for third level students and furthermore suggest the following changes:

a) That the student’s maintenance grants be increased to social welfare levels.
b) That the income threshold for provision of grants be raised considerably
c) That the inefficiency and bureaucracies in the grant system be removed”

With the agreement of the meeting Items 50 and 51 were taken at this stage.

50. ROADS LEADING TO COOLANEY VILLAGE

Councillor J. Lundy asked that Sligo County Council provide adequate funding to upgrade and maintain all 5 roads leading to the village of Coolaney.

In response, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that the roads in question will be considered for improvement when the Draft Roadworks Scheme is being considered at the local area meeting.

51. RECREATIONAL AREA IN TUUBERCURRY

Councillor J. Lundy asked if provision is made for a recreational area in the Tubbercurry Area Plan.

In response, Director Clarke stated that the provision of a location for recreational facilities can be included in the Local Area Plan for Tubbercurry that is currently being prepared.

19 AND 23 MEETING RE FUNDING TO UPGRADE THE N16

Councillor S. Kilgannon asked the Director of Services what is the up to date position regarding the upgrading of the N16 road and Councillor I. Fox asked that a meeting be arranged with members of Leitrim, Fermanagh, Cavan and Sligo County Councils to seek funding to upgrade the N16 as part of the cross border infrastructure.

In response, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that a preferred route had been adopted by members of Sligo County Council for the upgrade of National Primary Route N16 Borough Boundary to County Boundary with Co. Leitrim. No approval has been forthcoming towards the recommencement of the planning of this project. It was designated Phase 4 project by NRA ‘Roads Needs Study’ requiring upgrade in period 2015-2019. The meeting agreed to forward the motion to the Joint Governments.

The County Manager stated that ICBAN were preparing a report on transportation study and that it might be advisable to await the outcome of this study.

20. FEEHILY ESTATE, KILMACOWEN

Councillor D. Healy McGowan asked the County Manager for a report on the reviewed costing on the Feehily Estate in Kilmacowen, and the proposal that the County Council take over this estate.

In response, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that the estimated cost to upgrade services and road infrastructure is €15,000 and when these works were completed the estate could be taken in charge by Sligo County Council.

21. CAR PARK AT REAR OF SLIGO RAIL STATION

Councillor S. Kilgannon asked that Sligo County Council and Sligo Borough Council along with Irish Rail construct a car park at the rear of Sligo Rail Station.

In response, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that the lands in question are in the ownership of Irish Rail and the Council is not in a position to establish what strategic use they have for such lands.

22. LOSS OF 122 JOBS IN TRACTECH

Councillor S. Kilgannon asked that due to the fact that 122 manufacturing jobs are to be lost at Tractech in Sligo that Sligo County Council agree to send a delegation to meet with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mr Michael Martin to ensure that the IDA treat Sligo as a special case for job creation in 2006.

24. EIRCOM POLES AT ST PATRICK’S NS, CALRY

Councillor I. Fox asked that Sligo County Council request Eircom to remove poles obstructing traffic at St Patrick’s NS, Calry.

In response, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that the Roads Department would write to Eircom to have these poles relocated.

25. SEWERAGE TREATMENT PROBLEMS IN CLUAIN DARA ESTATE, GURTEEN:

Councillor M. Gormley asked what proposals Sligo County Council had to remedy the ongoing sewerage problems at the Cluain Dara Estate in Gurteen.

K. Larkin, Senior Engineer in response stated that there is a wastewater pumping station serving the development that pumps foul sewerage from the estate into the public sewer. As the pumps are 10 years old they have given some operational problems recently but these have always been addressed by Sligo County Council. However, there does appear to be infiltration of storm-water into the system during periods of heavy rain, causing the pump station to overflow as the pumps are designed to cater for foul flows only.

A CCTV survey of the system is scheduled to take place shortly to identify the source of the storm-water entering the system and following this a programme of work will then be implemented to address the situation. To service a new housing development in the area a new pumping station is under construction and it is intended to discharge the foul sewerage from Cluain Dara into this new pump station, thus rendering the current pump station redundant.

27. SEWERAGE TREATMENT FACILITATIES IN COOLANEY AND BALLINACARROW

Councillor M. Fleming requested a report on proposals for sewerage treatment facilities in the villages of Coolaney and Ballinacarrow.

In response, Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer stated that the contract for Coolaney has been awarded and construction is currently underway with a completion period of approx 26 weeks.

Ballinacarrow has been bundled together with Cliffoney,Ballygawley and Mullaghmore for procurement purposes.

A brief for appointing a clients representative for the contract was forwarded to the Department of Environment for approval in July 2005 and approval from the Department is awaited.

28. FLASHING AMBER LIGHTS AT SCHOOLS

Councillor M. Fleming asked the Director of Services when it is proposed to carry out the installation of flashing amber lights at schools.

In response, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that a grant of €214,500 had been secured under the CLAR Programme for the installation of lights at 32 National Schools. The contract has been awarded and it is hoped subject to the contractor submitting necessary documentation to Sligo County Council that the contract will commence in February.

29. PANEL OF APPROVED CONSULTANTS

Councillor M. Fleming asked the Director of Services with reference to Sligo County Council’s panel of approved consultants to carry out site suitability assessments relating to applications for planning permission, that an agreed scale of fees be negotiated and made available to applicants.

Director Forkan responded that the inclusion of an agent on the panel is an indication that the Council is satisfied that the agent has the necessary qualifications and experience to carry out on-site tests in a competent manner. It is hoped that a prospective applicant or agent for planning permission will engage the services of one of the approved consultants to prepare that element of their planning application. Accordingly, as it is the applicant who is engaging the services of a consultant, the issue of appropriate fee is a matter for negotiation between the applicant and the consultant. The large number of agentson the approved panel should ensure that there will be adequate competition between agents to keep fees reasonable.

It should be noted that site assessments were always part of the required submission for Planning applicants for oneoff rural dwellings and the cost of the submission charged to the client included the site assessment costs.

30. SEWERAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES IN BALLINACARROW

Councillor M. Gormley asked when work will commence on the upgrade of the sewerage treatment plant at Ballinacarrow.

K Larkin, Senior Engineer responded that Ballinacarrow has been bundled together with Cliffoney, Ballygawley and Mullaghmore for procurement purposes.

A brief for appointing a clients representative for the contract was forwarded to the Department of Environment for approval in July 2005 and approval from the Department is awaited.

31. MEETING OF MIN FOR ENTERPRISE, TRADE AND EMPLOYMENT WITH TRACTECH WORKERS

Councillor I. Henry proposed that Sligo County Council requests that the Minister for Enterprise and Employment, Michael Martin meet with Tractech workers with a view to finding replacement jobs and outline this governments plans for future protection of jobs in Sligo.

32. DOUBLE YELLOW LINES AT CARRAROE SCHOOL

Councillor I. Henry asked that Sligo County Council amend bye-laws to position double yellow lines around the triangle outside the entrance to Carraroe school.

In response, T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that it is proposed to undertake these works when the contractor next returns to the county.

33. RAIL FREIGHT TO SLIGO

Councillor I. Henry asked what is the position with Iarnrod Eireann with regard to freight being transported by rail as opposed to road. I believe there is no freight being transported by rail into Sligo anymore.

34. FIRE COVER IN SLIGO BOROUGH

Councillor V. Cawley asked that a report be given on the procedure currently in place to provide cover for the Sligo Borough when the Borough Fire Brigade Unit is attending to a call outside of town.

Paul Coyle, Chief Fire Officer replied that the response to any incident depends upon the nature of the incident and is primarily based upon the risk to life. If necessary when there are life threatening, multiple or large incidents, brigades from outside the town may be called upon to assist, but care must be exercised when so doing in order that other communities are not placed at risk by calling up resources that are not required. In Sligo Town the Fire Brigade sends two appliances to all incidents within the town and generally one of those outside the town; however this would depend upon the actual incident and the risk to life and property.

35. AN TAISCE

Councillor P. Conmy called on Sligo County Council to request the government not to fund An Taisce due to the fact that some of the people in that body have no knowledge of rural areas and vital infrastructure and further call on the government to abolish that extreme body.

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council invite members of An Taisce to come and address this Council”.

36. STATEMENT BY PROF BRENDAN DRUMM

Councillor P. Conmy called on Sligo County Council to condemn a recent statement made by Prof Brendan Drumm regarding radiotherapy services in the North West.

As agreement could not be reached in relation to this matter the Cathaoirleach, Councillor P. Barry asked that a poll be taken.

For the motion: Conmy, Fleming,

Against the motion: Barry, Bree, Cawley, Colleary, Gormley, Healy McGowan, Higgins, Kilgannon, Queenan, Sherlock

Abstain: Fox

As the result was 2 for the motion, 10 against the motion and 1 abstainee the Cathaoirleach declared the motion lost.

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council request Professor Brendan Drumm to address the members of this Council regarding the provision of radiotherapy services for this county”.

37. STOKANE NS POLLLING BOOTH

Already dealt with under Item No 14

38. WESTERN RAIL CORRIDER

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Transport and Iarnrod Eireann to commence work on the western rail corridor in 2006 thereby reducing proposed completion timescale from 10 years”.

39. PROVISION OF FOOTPATHS ON N17 AT TUBBERCURRY

Councillor M. Fleming requested the Director of Services to seek funding from the NRA for the provision of footpaths on the N17 south of Tubbercurry.

In response T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that there is no provision in the estimates for the construction of new footpaths adjacent to N17 south of Tubbercurry. Notification of grants from the NRA is expected soon.

40. REPAIR TO FENCE AT GLEN ROAD

Councillor D. Healy McGowan asked the County Manager what safety measures and provisions have been made for the viewing area on the Glen Road, Knocknarea since the demolition of the existing fence.

In reply, T. Carroll, Senior Engineer stated that the fence has been replaced and repaired where required recently by Sligo County Council.

41. 3.55PM TRAIN FROM DUBLIN TO SLIGO ON FRIDAY

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on Iarnrod Eireann to have the 3.55pm train from Dublin to Sligo on Friday evening stop at Drumcondra to accommodate students returning home at the weekend”.

42. SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT FOR CARNEY

Councillor D. Bree asked the County Manager for a progress report on the provision of a sewerage treatment plant for Carney.

In response, Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer stated that tenders had been received and were currently being evaluated. When the preferred contractor is identified and contract formalities completed, it will be required to go through the Part 8 planning process in April/May and it is hoped to commence in Summer and should be completed and operational early in 2007.

43. DRAFT SLIGO DOCKLANDS REGENERATION STRATEGY

Councillor D. Bree asked that the Council be provided with a copy of the draft Sligo Dockland's Regeneration Strategy for consideration.

In response, the County Manager said that an initial report dealing with financial matters is expected to be delivered to both the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government next month.

The report will be discussed at the Strategic Policy Committee meeting on Infrastructure in February, before being brought before a full meeting. The County Manager stated that the Area plan will be produced under the Planning Act and will not be completed until sometime in 2007.

In response to a question from Cllr V Cawley, Mr D. Breen, SEO stated that the report would not deal with individual leases and that these would have to be examined individually in the future in the process of preparing a regeneration strategy for the Harbour.

44. FUNDING FOR 2006 COUNTY FLEADH IN STRANDHILL

Cllr D. Bree asked that the Council congratulates the Strandhill community on successfully hosting Fleadh Cheoil Chontae Shligigh in 2005, and welcomed the Comhaltas decision to hold the 2006 County Fleadh in Strandhill, and further asked that the Council agrees to provide a grant of €2,000 to Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann to assist the organisation in covering the cost of the 2006 County Fleadh in Strandhill.

45. WATER QUALITY IN GURTEEN

Councillor M. Gormley asked what response Sligo County Council got from Roscommon County Council following a request for a detailed report on the problems that exist with the water quality in the Gurteen and surrounding areas, and what proposals they have for upgrading the system.

K. Larkin, Senior Engineer replied that Roscommon County Council stated the quality of water supplied from Lough Gara into the supply area, is the best possible under current circumstances. Roscommon County Council has appointed a Consulting Engineer to examine the water supply into the whole area, including South Sligo, under the auspices of the West Roscommon Regional Water Supply Scheme.

A new upgraded supply is the likely outcome but Roscommon County Council has informed us that the expected time frame for implementation of this scheme is estimated at 2 – 3 years.

46. IMPROVEMENT OF INFRASTRUCTRE IN COOLANEY VILLAGE

Councillor M. Fleming asked that funding be secured for the improvement of Infrastructure in Coolaney village, in particular Roads No 1 - 4 and 308.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that the roads will be considered for improvement when the Draft Roadworks Scheme is being considered at the Tubbercurry Area meeting.

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to have the road from Coolaney to Collooney (Road No 308) upgraded to a Regional Road due to the large developments that has taken place”.

47. TRAFFIC CALMING AT KILROSS SCHOOL

Councillor G. Mullaney asked that Sligo County Council provide traffic calming measures at Kilross School in the interest of public safety as a mater of urgency.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that traffic calming measures can be considered when the Draft Roadworks Scheme is being considered at the Ballymote Area meeting. Flashing Amber Lights have been installed under the Clár Programme.

48. SIGHTLINES AT JUNCTION OF ROAD 704 AND 704A

Councillor G. Mullaney asked that Sligo County Council improve the sightlines at the junction of road 704 and 704A in the interest of public safety.

In reply, Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that these measures can be considered when the Draft Roadworks Scheme is being considered at the Ballymote Area meeting.

49. FLOODING ON REGIONAL ROAD 284 AT CARROWADARGNEY

Councillor G. Mullaney asked that Sligo County Council take measures to alleviate flooding on regional road 284 at Carrowadargney, Geevagh.

Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said that this issue is being addressed by the local engineering office.

52. MOBILE PHONE ROAMING CHARGES

Proposed by Cllr D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Cllr J. Devins

AND AGREED

“That the Council write a letter to the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey TD and Northern Ireland Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Angela Smyth to address the mobile phone companies on the exorbitant roaming charges incurred on people when travelling North and South of the Border”.

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 “That the charges relating to text and ringtones and other add-ons for mobile phones be made more clear and disconnection methods more accessible and straight forward and circulate this motion to all County Councils”.

53. LIGHTS AT DROMARD RC CHURCH

Councillor P. Conmy asked the Council why lights have not been erected by ESB at Dromard RC Church.

Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer said an order had been submitted to the ESB and Sligo County Council are awaiting completion of the contract.

18. POLICY IN RELATION TO HIRING OF CONTRACTORS

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley

AND AGREED

“That we the elected members of Sligo County Council, pursuant to section 130 of the Local Government Act 2001, hereby determine that the policy of the Council in relation to the hiring of Contractors for the provision of services to or on behalf of the Council is as set out in the Schedule to this resolution”.

Schedule

The general standards required of a Contractor in providing services to or on behalf of the Council have governance implications for the Council. Nonperformance by a Contractor, or performance by a Contractor at less than acceptable delivery or behaviour standards, or both, has implications for the Council itself. For its own protection, the Council must have the means both to take action in such circumstances and to be seen to be capable of taking such action when required.
Therefore, in the interests of good governance, when hiring a Contractor the Council shall include the following provisions in its contracts.
1. The Council shall explicitly reserve the means to terminate a Contractor’s contract on grounds of either non-performance or of less than acceptable standards of performance or behaviour by the Contractor. The Council shall make explicit the level of performance and behaviour required of a Contractor and the Contractor’s management and staff in the provision of services under each particular contract.
2. Each Contractor shall be obliged to make an annual ‘Governance Assurance Report’ to the Council, signed by the Chief Executive of the contracting company and dealing, at the least, with the following matters:
  1. adherence to the full and complete terms of the contract,
  2. health and safety legislation - provision of copies of compliance documentation and policies,
  3. Fire Authority Regulations - Contractor’s certificate of compliance,
  4. environmental protection - Contractor’s certification in relation to any impact, together with full disclosure of any complaints received or investigations carried out during the year and details of any remedial action taken,
  5. fiscal obligations - provision by the Contractor of Revenue Commissioners’ certification of full tax compliance in the year under report,
  6. necessary insurance - the Contractor shall inform the Council of the appropriate insurance cover carried by the Contractor,
  7. Contractor’s certification of full compliance with employment legislation obligations, together with notification of any complaints received or investigations carried out during the year under report and details of remedial action taken,
  8. Contractor’s certification in relation to the application of good standards in human resource management practice.
The Council shall provide an annual report to the elected members and to its employee trade unions on compliance by Contractors with the requirements of paragraph B.
The Council is not confined to the reporting requirements measures set out above and, following experience and/or advice, may extend the content of governance assurance reporting measures, as required.
In appropriate cases, the Council shall have an additional term in its contracts with Contractors, providing for a random ‘spot check’ obligation. In such a case, a Contractor would be obliged to facilitate and cooperate with the Council if it wishes to check on the accuracy of any or all of the governance assurance reporting measures. The Council shall consider appointing a competent independent party to carry out and report back on such spot checks.
While it is not appropriate that the Council be expected or requested to police the employee relationships of its Contractors, it is nonetheless responsible that the Council explicitly provide in its contracts that -
1. the Contractor will abide by the code of practice scheduled to the Industrial Relations Act 1990 (Code of Practice on Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures) (Declaration) Order 2000 (SI 146 of 2000) in regard to grievance and disciplinary procedures,
2. the employees of the Contractor will have the same right of access to the Labour Relations Commission conciliation service, the Labour Court and the Rights Commissioners service, as appropriate, as do the Council’s own employees, and
3. the Contractor will commit to giving the determinations and/or recommendations of these bodies their due regard under Irish law and in accordance with best industrial relations practice.”

In reply, Director Caffrey stated that there are Government regulations in place which we must comply with. These are determined by the Department of Finance and it was agreed to forward the motion to the Department of Finance for their observations.

26. PART V HOUSING IN STRANDILL

Councillor D. Bree asked the County Manager what is the policy of the Council with regard to the provision of Council houses in Strandhill under Part V of the Planning and Development Act, and how many Council houses to date are being provided in Strandhill under Part V.

Director Caffrey replied that the legislation allows for a number of options for compliance under part of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. It is the preferred policy of the Council, however, to secure, where possible completed units as part of the subject site.

In certain circumstances completed units elsewhere or zoned land at an agreed location will be considered.

Based on planning applications which have currently been submitted to Sligo County Council it is anticipated that subject to such applications proceeding, up to 40 houses will be delivered through Part V, a mix of social and affordable.

It was agreed to circulate to members the Guidelines on Part V.

54. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Hugh Clarke and Family on the death of his wife, Josie.”

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Bridgie McGowan on the death of her brother, Martin Kilgariff.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Agnes Cassidy on the death of her mother, Patricia Cogan.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Ignatius Henry on the death of his father, John Pakie.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Vincent Brennan on the death of his wife, Marie.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Luke Brennan on the death of his father, Michael.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to James Durcan on the death of his brother, Kevin.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Bea-Ann Brennan on the death of her husband, Michael.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Jimmy Torsney on the death of his brother, Paddy.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Luke Brennan on the death of his father, Michael.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Martin Fox, on the death of his brother, Paul.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Margaret Henry on the death of her husband, John Pakie.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Joe Finn on the death of his sister, Mai Hannon.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Doreen Craven on the death of her husband, Bill.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Teresa Walsh on the death of her mother, Kathleen Joyce.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Liam Wilson on the death of his sister, Bernadette Doyle.”
“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to Bridie Mariner on the death of her husband, John.”

Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be expressed to the Smith Family on the death of Sam.”

55. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Board of Management, Pupils and Staff of Summerhill College on the Department announcement that a new school is to be built at Summerhill.”

56. CONFERENCES

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillor J. Queenan be nominated to attend the Merriman Winter School in Westport on 27th – 29th Jan 2006”.

Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor I. Henry

AND AGREED

“That Councillors Kilgannon and Sherlock be nominated to attend the AMAI Spring Seminar in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal on 10th – 11th Feb 2006”.

Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan

AND AGREED

“That Councillor S. Kilgannon be nominated to attend ‘The Region and the NDP 2007 – 2013’ conference organised by MWRA in Ennis, Co. Clare on 17th Feb 2006”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillor J. Lundy be nominated to attend ‘Ireland - Land of opportunity’ conference organised by UCC in Clarion Hotel, Cork on 19th Jan 2006”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillors Conmy, Fleming, Mullaney, Gormley, Cawley and Kilgannon be nominated to attend the Association of County and City Councils ‘Annual Conference’ in Dundalk on 9th – 11th March 2006”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillor P. Conmy be nominated to attend the ‘Island of Ireland Peace Park – Pathfinding Conference’ in Whitehall, Dublin on 3rd – 4th March 2006”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillors Sherlock, Baker and Murray be nominated to attend the Sligo Association of Chicago St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Chicago from 9th – 16th March 2006”.

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

AND AGREED

“That Cathaoirleach Councillor Barry be nominated to attend the St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in New York”

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor A. Colleary

AND AGREED

“That Leas Cathaoirleach Councillor Cawley be nominated to attend the Sligo Association of Boston St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Boston.

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

AND AGREED

“That Councillor Colleary be nominated to attend the Sligo Association of Boston St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Boston.

Proposed by Councillor J. Sherlock
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“That Councillor Healy McGowan be nominated to attend the Sligo Association of Boston St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Boston.

57. CORRESPONDENCE

All items of correspondence were noted.

59. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley

AND AGREED

“That this Council requests the Minster for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to sympathetically consider granting asylum to Pamela Izevbekhai and her children on humanitarian grounds”

60. ADDITIONAL ITEMS CIRCULATED AT THE MEETING:

National Building Agency Annual Review 2005
Reply dated 11th January from Department of Health and Children re: Breastcheck
List of forthcoming conferences

END OF MEETING:

The meeting ended at 4.55pm

Meeting Date 16/01/2006