Minutes 2007

Minutes of July Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on 2nd July 2007 in County Hall, Riverside, Sligo at 11am

MEMBERS PRESENT:

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

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
Mr J. McHugh, Acting Director of Services
Mr S. Concannon, Director of Services
Ms M. McConnell, Senior Executive Officer
Mr. M. Lydon, Acting Head of Finance
Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer
Ms E. Concannon, Senior Executive Engineer
Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
Mr F. Moylan, Senior Executive Planner
Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer
Ms M. Hegarty, Administrative Officer
Mr J. Walsh, Administrative Officer
Ms M. McAuliffe, Arts Officer
Ms D. Finnerty, Senior Executive Officer
Mr B. Gavin, Project Manager
Ms F. Meagher, Senior Executive Planner
Ms K. McTiernan, Administrative Officer
Ms S. Ryan, Heritage Officer
Ms M. Boylan, Staff Officer
Ms L. Conlon, Clerical Officer
Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor S. Kilgannon presided.

1. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST MEETING HELD ON 10TH OF OCTOBER 2007;

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West area meeting held on the 10th of October 2006”.

2. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST MEETING HELD ON 13TH OF DECEMBER 2006;

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West area meeting held on the 13th December 2006”.

3. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST MEETING HELD ON 8TH OF MARCH 2007;

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West area meeting held on the 8th of March 2007”.

4. MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY MEETING OF THE COUNCIL HELD ON 11TH JUNE 2007;

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Ordinary meeting of the Council held on the 11th of June 2007”.

5. MINUTES OF THE SLIG0-DRUMCLIFFE MEETING HELD ON THE 19TH FEBRUARY 2007;

Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

“To confirm minutes of the Sligo-Drumcliffe held on the 19th of February 2007;

6. MINUTES OF THE SLIGO-DRUMCLIFFE MEETING HELD ON THE 7TH MARCH 2007;

Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Sligo-Drumcliffe meeting held on the 7th of March 2007;

7. MINUTES OF THE SLIGO-DRUMCLIFFE MEETING HELD ON THE 16TH APRIL 2007;

Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Sligo-Drumcliffe meeting held on the 16th of April 2007”.

8. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001; DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 287 ST. MARY’S GREEN, COLLOONEY, CO. SLIGO;

Proposed by Councillor J. Sherlock
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 287 St. Mary’s Green, Collooney, Co. Sligo to Philip Connolly and Patricia Solan”.

9. SETION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001; THE DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT GREYFIELD, CULFADDA, BALLYMOTE, CO. SLIGO;

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at Greyfield, Culfadda, Ballymote, Co. Sligo to Carina Byrne”.

10. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001, THE DISPOSAL OF SWITHGEAR AND TRANSFORMER ROOM (WHICH FORMS PART OF THE PUMPING STATIONS) DEEP WATER BERTHS ROAD, FINISKLIN, SLIGO;

Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of Switchgear and Transformer Room (which forms part of the Pumping Station buildings), Deep Water Berths Road, Finisklin, Co. Sligo”.

10(B). SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001, THE DISPOSAL OF SWITHGEAR AND TRANSFORMER ROOM (WHICH MAKES UP PART OF THE CONTROL BUILDING), SLIGO WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS, FINISKLIN, CO. SLIGO;

Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of Switchgear and Transformer Room (which makes up part of the Control Building), Sligo Wastewater Treatment Works, Finisklin, Co. Sligo”.

11. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS 2001;

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Part 8 (Article 81) of the Local Government (Planning and Development Regulations, 2001 (as amended by the Planning and Development Regulations, 2006) the construction of a dwelling house, septic tank and percolation area, access onto public road and all associated site development works at Cloonca, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo”.

12. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S LITTER MANAGEMENT PLAN 2007-2010;

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

AND AGREED

“To adopt Sligo County Council’s Litter Management Plan 2007-2010”.

13. FAILTE IRELAND TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING SUB COMMITTEE;

Following a discussion it was;

Proposed by Councillor J. Sherlock
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“That the matter of Failte Ireland Tourism Infrastructure Funding be dealt with by SPC1 – Economic Development and Planning”.

14. COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE FORUM;

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

“To nominate Councillor P. Barry to the County Sligo Heritage Forum”.

Councillor Barry indicated his reluctance to allow his name to go forward as he had served eight years on the Forumn.

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor J. Leonard

“To nominate Councillor G. Murray to the County Sligo Heritage Forum”.

Councillor P. Barry then withdrew his name and the meeting agreed that Councillor Murray be appointed to the County Sligo Heritage Forum.

15. JOINT MEETING BETWEEN SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AND OMAGH DISTRICT COUNCIL;

“It was agreed by the members that the joint meeting between Sligo County Council and Omagh District Council would be held on the 15th of October 2007 at 2pm”.

16. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL LOCAL TIDY TOWNS COMPETITION;

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the grant recipients and prize winners of the 2007 Sligo County Council Local Tidy Towns Competition”.

17. DRAFT SLIGO ARTS PLAN 2007-2012;

Proposed by Councillor J. Leonard
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“To approve the Draft Sligo Arts Plan 2007-2012”.

18. SLIGO ARTS AND HEALTH STRATEGY 2007 – 2012;

Proposed by Councillor J. Leonard
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“To approve the Sligo Arts and Health Strategy 2008-2012”.

19. STRATEGIC PLAN FOR ICBAN REGION – INTERREG IV;

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

AND AGREED

“To approve strategic plan for ICBAN Region – INTERREG IV”.

20. TAKING IN CHARGE OF THE NEST, WOLFE TONE SQUARE, TUBBERCURRY, CO. SLIGO;

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council proceed with the taking in charge of the Nest, Wolfe Tone Square, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo”.

21. UNFINISHED ESTATES;

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

AND AGREED

“That the works as outlined in the revised proposal submitted by the Acting Director of Services be carried out over a period – to be funded in accordance with the report”.

22. MANAGER’S MID TERM PROGRESS REPORT ON THE SLIGO AND ENVIRONS DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2004-2010;

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Manager’s Mid Term Progress Report on the Sligo and Environs Development Plan 2004-2010”.

23. SLIGO MUSEUM AND EXTENSION TO THE MODEL AND NILAND GALLERY

“An Update on the proposed Sligo Museum and extension to the Model and Niland Gallery was given to the meeting by Mr B. Gavin, Project Manager”.

In answer to members queries the County Manager stated that in rushing the project some funding opportunities could be lost. He also informed the meeting that a study of the site on Stephen Street was being carried out and it was hoped to have the 1st draft of this study in July.

24. PRESENTATION BY BRIDIE SWEENEY;

Presentation by Ms Bridie Sweeney, Project Co-ordinator of Riverbrook Project;

Ms Sweeney informed the meeting that the Riverbrook Project was a joint project between Riverstown Enterprise Development (Sligo Ltd) and Brookeborough and District Community Development Association (Co. Fermanagh). She outlined the funding, structures, activities and future plans of the project and thanked the members for giving her the opportunity to address their meeting. The members and County Manager thanked Ms Sweeney for her presentation and wished her well in her endeavours.

25. QUANTUM CORPORATE CREDIT MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS;

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

“That the Council be provided with a full and comprehensive report including costs, of the decision of the Council management to engage a debt collecting agency, ‘Quantum Corporate Credit Management Consultants’, to collect monies allegedly owing to the Council”.

In Response Mr M. Lydon Acting Head of Finance stated the following;

Quantum Corporate Credit Management Consultants have been employed to help with collection of outstanding fire charges. These charges relate to Road Traffic Accidents, attendance at fire scenes and false alarm callouts. The level of debt current outstanding is approximately €104,500. This can be split as follows:

2003     €6,000
2004     €49,000
2005     €32,500
2006     €17,000

Despite sending invoices and reminder letters, individuals and companies have still not paid the charge or contacted the fire service to discuss he charge, hence, the reason for employing consultants.

The consultants will be paid 15 cent plus VAT in every Euro for debts over 6 months old. For debts less than 6 months old the charge reduces to 9 cent plus VAT in every Euro. The consultants will only receive payment for debts collected. All payments will come directly to the County Council.

Members should note that in most cases individuals insurance policies will cover the costs of the charge. As with all debts the County Council will look sympathetically on any hardship cases. The non collection of debt invariably impacts on the council’s capacity to deliver services as any write off debt will need be financed from the revenue budget. The most important thing is for customers to communicate with staff, so debts are paid or other resolutions found. Mr Lydon informed the meeting that there was no plan to use the agency for any other collection area.

26. DRAFT NORTH FRINGE MASTERPLAN;

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor Barry

“That the May meeting of this Council be given an update and timetable from the Director of Services on the Draft North Fringe Masterplan”.

In Response Mr F. Moylan A/Senior Planner

Earlier this year, a working draft of the North Fringe Local Area Plan was presented to both the Drumcliff electoral area meeting and the SPC. Some constructive feedback was received at these meetings which we agreed would be considered by the forward planning section and the NBA, the consultants preparing the plan on out behalf. That work has now been completed and we are ready to commence the formal local area plan process, the first stage of which is public consultation. Accordingly, we intend to place ads in the relevant newspapers inviting submissions in respect of the preparation of a Local Area Plan for the North Fringe area.

27. IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT LOCAL ROAD JUNCTION 430 AT CASHEL SOUTH AND THE N.17;

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

“That this Council calls on the NRA to make the necessary funding available to carry out improvement works at local road junction 430 at Cashel South and the N17 in the interest of road safety”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

A design and cost estimate for upgrade of very dangerous junction of local road L4505/CR 430 at Cashel Gates, Curry was submitted to NRA on 11th April, 2007 by Roads Department, Sligo County Council for funding in the current year.

A copy of petition from local councillors and residents was also submitted with this application.

Sligo County Council awaits funding for this much needed project.

28. COST OF WATER TO FARMERS AND BUSINESSES IN COUNTY SLIGO;

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

“That Sligo County Council immediately receive a full report on the investigations/discussions carried out by the Department of the Environment with Sligo County Council on the issue of the cost of water to farmers and businesses in County Sligo. Such a report should include all proposals suggested to enable a fairer price to be levied”.

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

Officials of Sligo County met three officials from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on the 6th March, 2007, to discuss the basis for the rate of water and wastewater charges set by Sligo County Council for 2007. The DEHLG officials were provided with necessary information, and any points raised were clarified. They were to study the information when they returned to the Department and we have had no official response since then. The information supplied to them was already supplied to the members of the Water Charges Sub-Committee. This meeting was held for the purpose of clarifying the basis of the charges and did not involve any negotiations or further proposals in regard to the rates set by Sligo County Council.

The County Manager informed the meeting that the recently issued European Communities (Drinking Water) Number 2 Regulations 2007 would prove very costly to implement and because of this it was likely that water charges would increase because of this.

47. E.I.S AND C.P.O DOCUMENTS FOR THE BY-PASS OF TUBBERCURRY;

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray

“As the E.I.S and C.P.O documents for the By-Pass of Tubbercurry are complete and with the NRA that we request them to meet a deputation from this Council on the matter”.

In Response Mr S. Concannon stated the following;

Draft Preliminary Report, EIS and CPO were forwarded to NRA on 10th April, 2007. Approval of documents and authorization to proceed to publication is now awaited.

48. EARLY BIRD TRAIN SERVICE;

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on Iarnrod Eireann to re-introduce the Early Bird Train service from Sligo to Dublin”.

51. DOUBLE YELLOW LINES;

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

“To ask the Director of Services when will the double yellow lines be laid at the junction where the circular road Tubbercurry meets the Ballina Road R294”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

Following consultation with the local Garda Siochanna by the local area engineer consideration will be given to the provision of double yellow lines at junction of National primary road N17 and Regional road R294. The Draft Traffic Management Plan for Tubbercurry will also address this matter.

54. BREACH OF PLANNING CONDITIONS BY METEOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS AT CARRAUN, CASTLECONNOR, CO. SLIGO;

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

“What action have the planning section of Sligo County Council taken regarding the major breach of planning conditions by Meteor Telecommications at Carraun Castleconnor, Co. Sligo”

In Response Mr J. McHugh A/DOS stated the following;

Having evaluated the file and carried out an inspection on-site, I am of the opinion that no breach of the conditions imposed by An Brod Pleanala has occurred in respect of this development. In this context no action is required in this regard.

After a discussion the following resolution was agreed;

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

AND AGREED

“To Ask the Manager to correspond with An Bord Pleanala regarding the decision of the Board on the 4th of September 2002 Ref: 01961, Meteor Mobile Communications Ltd. What action does the Board intend to take, as the woodland which was not to be felled until 2009 has being felled March 2007, three and a half years into the planning application. Its the view of the Council that the people have been misled”.

55.TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES COMMENCE AT CORBALLA VILLAGE AND RATHLEE VILLAGE;

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

“When will traffic calming measures commence at Corballa village and Rathlee village”

In Response Mr T. Carroll stated the following;

A submission for permission to introduce a special speed limit on section of N59 at Corballa was made to the National Roads Authority by Sligo County Council towards the end of 2006 following resolutions of members of the Council. On the 9th May 2007 NRA circular No 4/2007 was received by Sligo County Council. This circular summaries the NRA's policy on the use of special speed limits on our national route network. In assessing a location for possible introduction of a limit lower than the default level a number of criteria must be met to support the applications. There are 8 No criteria. This new policy states that any reduction from the default level should only be considered as an appropriate speed reduction mechanism when all other applications have been exhausted. The written consent of the authority is mandatory before any special speed limit in lieu of the default speed limit is applied. In the interim this section of road will be examined by Road Design Department in relation to possible introduction of other traffic calming measures.
Traffic calming measures including additional signing and lining on Regional Road R297 the introduction of amber flashing lights have been introduced on the approaches to Rathlee village by Roads Department Sligo County Council in recent past. At present a special speed limit of 60kpm exists at this location. It is proposed to examine the feasibility of introducting speed bars on approaches to village as a further traffic calming measure.

56. WATER METERING PROGRAMME IN THE COUNTY;

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor J. Devins

“Ask the Directors of Services to give an update on the water metering programme in the county “.

How many more meters have to be installed?
How many bills for 2007 have being issued?
Has there being a reduction in the consumption in water?
Will there be an increase in price in 2008?
Have many customers paid bills up to date?

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

The situation is as follows

How many more meters to be installed?
It is estimated that there are between 900 and 1000 meters to be installed. Most of these are new customers over and above what was contained in the original database.

There will always be new customers coming on stream
How many bills for 2007 have been issued?
Approximately 1,200 of Q1 bills have been issued to date; All Q1 and Q2 bills for 2007 will have been issued by end of July 2007.
Has there been a reduction in consumption of water?
Yes. The introduction of the metering project has identified a number of customers with leaks. As the invoices roll out people realise that if they don’t fix their leaks they will pay for the water wasted.

Also a number of GWS Schemes are putting a considerable effort into bringing their usage down, to reduce the amounts of their invoices.
Customers are being given 14 days grace to facilitate fixing of their leaks.

However it will be some time before the full benefits of the metering project, in terms of leak reduction, can be quantified.
Will there be an increase in price in 2008?
It is not possible to determine this until the end of the year when the final costs of the water services for 2007 are available and estimates for 2008 are prepared.
Have many customers paid bills up to date?
1,335 customers representing 1,800 bills have paid so far and this is increasing as more bills are issuing

57.CASTLECONNOR GROUP WATER SUPPLY;

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

“To ask the County Manager to (1) provide the Council with copies of each and every written or oral agreement which the Authority has entered into with Trustees or representatives of the Castleconnor Group Water supply Scheme; (2) state whether the Authority has obtained the written consent of Trustees or representatives of the Castleconnor Group Scheme authorising the appointment of Veolia Water to meter farm connections on the scheme, issue farm users with bills for metering and water usage and to demand payment of charges; if not, specify the Act or statutory measure under which the Authority is empowered to involve Veolia in the Castleconnor scheme for the purposes as referred to at (2) above without the written consent of the Trustees, or representatives or owners of the scheme and who the beneficiaries of the payments being demanded by Veolia are; (3) list the payments which the Authority's Revenue Collector each year collected from water users in Castleconnor while the Authority was acting as collection agents for the scheme's trustees or representatives of the scheme, and if the Manager will make a statement with respect to the foregoing.”

A vote was taken on this motion.

For: Bree and Cawley

Against: Baker, Barrett, Barry, Conmy, Devins, Fleming, Fox, Hiiggins, Kilgannon, McGrath, McLoughlin, Mullaney, Murray, Queenan and Sherlock.

Abstained: Gormley, Healy McGowan and Lundy

As the result was 2 for the motion and 15 against the motion with three abstaining the motion was defeated.

29. CALRY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION;

Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley

“To ask the Director of Services for Community and Enterprise to fund €8000 to Calry development association to complete the development of a right of way from Calry community hall to St. Patrick’s School to accommodate pupils in the interest of road safety”.

In Response Mr J. Walshe AO stated the following;

This project received funding from Peace II for the construction of right of way from Calry Community Hall to St. Patrick’s School. This work has been carried out to a very high standard and has proven to be very helpful in terms of access for people with disabilities. It is proposed to provide this funding for the completion of this project.

30. CARRY OUT NECESSARY WORKS AT JUNCTIONS ON N.7 NATIONAL PRIMARY ROAD WITH ROADS NO 430 AND AT DRUMBANE AND CASHEL TOWNLANDS;

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

AND AGREED

“To request Iarnrod Eireann, Sligo County Council and the N.R.A to work in co-operation to carry out necessary works at junctions on N.17 national primary road with roads no 430 and at Drumbane and Cashel Townlands”.

31. WATER MAINS PIPE WHICH SUPPLIES A LARGE AREA FROM CASTLEOGE TO COOLANEY, BALLINACARROW;

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

“To request a report on the present condition of water mains pipe which supplies a large area from Castleoge to Coolaney, Ballinacarrow and request that funding be provided to ensure continuity of supply to all consumers”.

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

This refers essentially to a section of public main form Muckelty Reservoir to Coolaney village which passes through the Lavagh area. The water main was laid in the 1960’s as part of a GWSS to serve the area and is approx 17 kilometres in length. The evidence on the ground, and our experience with this main indicates that it was not laid in accordance with good engineering standards with the result that there are many leaks on the main, and when one is repaired another occurs at a different location. As stated on previous occasions the only real solution to this is to re-lay the defective sections of the main. It is proposed to do this under the auspices of the Water Conservation Project. A schedule of mains replacement requirements is in the process of bring complied for submission to DEHLG for funding, but they do insist on a single schedule, based on a county-wide assessment, and prioritised on this countywide basis. This schedule will be submitted to DEHLG if not late in 2007 then in 1st quarter of 2008. We are confident that the main in the Lavagh area will be very high on the priority list.

32. FARM PLASTIC COLLECTION;

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

“That I will ask this Council at the next meeting that arrangements be made for farm plastic to be picked up in the Easkey Enniscrone area”.

In Response J. McHugh A/DOS stated the following;

Following the recent announcement by the DOEHLG that Sligo County Council has been approved for inclusion in Local Authority Farm Films Collection Scheme, Sligo County Council had to secure, by way of a public procurement process, recovery operators to arrange for the recovery and recycling of the waste plastic deposited by farmers at designated collection points.
Four collections points were identified, in North, South, East and West Sligo. The West Sligo site is located in Templeboy, as it was the most suitable site based on the following considerations:

Travel distance to each collection point
Traffic Management - sight lines for access and egress to site and minimisation of traffic congestion
Site Security
Site Dimensions
Ground Conditions

As part of the above site selection process, discussions were held with local IFA representatives, members of the public, members of the Environmental SPC and Area Engineers. The Templeboy site is deeded adequate to cater for Enniscrone and Easkey customers.
Additional consideration was given to the scheduling of dates and opening hours of the collection points in a bid to facilitate farmers who may have greater distances to travel, or have other time constraints.

33.JET SKI’S AND FAST POWER BOATS ON LOUGH GILL;

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

“That the Council in consultation with lake users and the public, prepares draft Bye-Laws to control the use of jet ski’s and fast power boats on Lough Gill and the Garavogue River”.

In Response Mr J. McHugh A/DOS stated the following;

That Sligo County Council would be happy to hear from interested parties and would be prepared to speak with anglers, rowers and other groups who use the river. He stated that Bye-Laws could be introduced but would prove very difficult to enforce.

34. CRASH BARRIERS ON CARROWNADARGNEY ROAD R284;

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide crash barriers each side of road at Carrownadargney on the R284 as far as necessary in the interest of public safety”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

This proposal will be considered in the context of 2008 Low Cost Accident Reduction Schemes when being submitted in 2008 for approval and funding by DOEHLG. In the interim delineation marker posts will be erected at the location in question.

35. LANDS ADJACENT TO THE ROUNDABOUT IN STRANDHILL;

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

“That this Council commits to enhancing lands adjacent to the roundabout in Strandhill”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

The strips of ground adjacent to the mini roundabout at the junction of Burma Road and R292 was top soiled and seeded recently. This area has been maintained by some local people in the past and it is hoped that they will maintain this area in the future.

36. REPAIR WORKS AT KNOCK NA REA;

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

“That Sligo County Council request a report from the OPW on what plan they have for repair works at Knock Na Rea”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll stated the following;

The OPW will be requested to submit a report on their proposals for repair works at Knock Na Rea.

37. WATER QUALITY OF HOMES IN THE CARNEY ROAD AND VILLAGE;

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

“That an investigation be carried out on the water quality of homes in the Carney Road and Village”.

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

Water supply to Carney is supplied from the North Sligo Regional Water Supply Treatment Works at Lyle, Grange. The actual source is a small stream coming off a bog. At times of heavy rainfall, particularly after an extended period of drought, the water, even after extensive treatment can have a high colour. It must be emphasised that there is no bacteriological hazard associated with this, but it is accepted that it is an inconvenience. NSRWW Scheme is approved to go to planning for an upgrade/expansion. This will, in all likelihood, entail the identification of a supplementary source of water as it would appear that the current source is at maximum capacity. As this process has only just begun it is anticipated that it will take 2-3 years before completion. In the meantime Water Services are investigating possible methods of reducing the colour content of the supply.

38.ADDITIONAL LIGHTS BE PROVIDED AT CALRY CHURCH;

Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor I. Fox

“That additional lights be provided at Calry Church be included as part of a submission to the NRA for improvements works on the Calry Road which is now a national road”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

This road has been upgraded to Regional road status by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and is now called R278. Funding has been provided in recent years to upgrade the surface of this road. Signage and road lining works are to be carried out in the next few months.

There are a number of public lights in front of Calry church/hall. The provisions of additional lights can be considered for funding under the Discretionary Improvement Grant.

39.WATER TREATMENT;

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

“Recognising that the issue of water treatment, its maintenance and delivery, is of growing public concern, and further recognising that water is not a private commodity and is best retained under the control of the public sector, this Council confirms its opposition to the privatisation of water services, and will oppose any attempt to hand over water and waste water systems to the private sector.”

40. E.U. WATER FRAMEWORK;

Proposed by Councillor Bree
Seconded by Councillor Gormley

“That the Council be provided with report/s to date on the economic analyses of water use prepared in accordance with the requirements of the E.U. Water Framework Directive 2000 and Article 7 of Statutory Instrument No 722/2003 – European Communities (Water Policy) Regulations 2003, the information to include the costings etc, on which the 2007 increase in commercial water charges was based.”

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

Water charges in 2007, and indeed since 2006, are based on the principle of full recovery of the cost of providing the service.

For the non-domestic sector that sector must pay for the cost of supplying that sector.
This is in accordance with E.U. and Government Policy as stated in the Polluter Pays Principle.

The actual mechanism for assessing the cost of the services is based on the DEHLG sponsored document “Water Services Cost Methodology Template” which incorporates all costs, including staff, power, chemicals, accommodation, capital costs, loan charges etc.

This document, and the guidance notes on its application, was provided to the “Water Charges Sub-Committee” earlier this year. Councillor Bree asked that a copy of this document be forwarded to him.

41.TAILINGS POND;

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

To ask the County Manager to provide a report on the current state of the Tailings Pond from the old lead and zinc mine at Harrington's Quarry, Ballisodare."

In Response Mr J. McHugh A/DOS stated the following;

Following on the disturbance of the tailings area within the quarry site by the construction of settlement lagoons, Harrington Concrete were required by Notice under the Water Pollution Acts to carry out extensive monitoring of leachate, seepage, tailings and ambient air. The results of this monitoring confirmed the presence of tailings consistent with the historic use of the area as a lead and zinc mine. The disturbed area was reinstated, covered with topsoil and vegetated with grass. This was considered the best environmental option. These results were reviewed by the Council in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency, and it was considered that there was no risk to the public.

Following this review the company were required to carry out a Risk Assessment in relation to the tailings on the site. A Draft Risk Assessment was prepared on behalf of the company, and this was forwarded to the Environmental Agency on January 19th last. Their response is awaited and this will in turn inform the decision as to what measures will be required to be implemented by the company to ensure that environmental risks are adequately controlled. The Environmental Protection Agency are currently carrying out a geological survey of this site in conjunction with a national study and the contents of this report will be given to the members.

42. MORE SIGNAGE ON THE N.17;

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

“To request the N.R.A and Sligo County Council to provide more signage on N17 in the vicinity of Connaught Gold plant at Achonry, to improve safety at junctions for Achonry and Mullinabreena where there is a continuous white line in place”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

There is substantial road signage along this section of road at present. Verge trimming on the N17 is being arranged - commencing on 11th June 2007. This will improve sight distance along N17 in the area. The long term solution is to construct the proposed new N17 road to reduce traffic on this section of the road. Mr Carroll S.E. agreed to review existing signage.

43. 60KM SPEED LIMIT ZONE ON N.17;

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

“To request an extension of 60km speed limit zone on N.17 north and south of Curry village”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

The existing 60km/h speed limits cover the section of road within which most development is located, such as the school and the Yeats County Inn. The agreement of the National Roads Authority would have to be obtained for any change to the speed limits on the N17. He further stated that the NRA had certain criteria which had to be met before changes to speed limits could be considered.

44. RAILWAY LINE FROM BELLAGHY TO COLLOONEY;

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

AND AGREED

“To request Iarnrod Eireann or their agents to carry out necessary drainage work, on the railway line from Bellaghy to Collooney and restore crossings so that farmers can access their lands safely”.

45.PREVENT ILLEGAL DUMPING IN KILLASPUGBRONE AND ALONG BEACHFRONT IN STRANDHILL;

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

“That Sligo County Council consider the erection of signage and other enforcement measures to prevent illegal dumping in Killaspugbrone and along beachfront in Strandhill”.

In Response Mr J. McHugh A/DOS stated the following;

The Beach Wardens, employed by Sligo County Council in Strandhill for the Summer months are authorised under the Litter Pollution Act and shall use these enforcement powers in incidences of illegal dumping along the beachfront in Strandhill. Sligo County Council’s full time Litter Warden and Enforcement Offficers shall continue to investigate incidences of illegal dumping in problem areas, including Killaspugbrone if deemed necessary. He welcomed the recent clean-up in the area carried out by the local community and stated that the provision of signage at the problem areas would be investigated.

46. STRANDHILL PENINSULA;

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins

“That in view of the increasing traffic volumes that Sligo County Council consider the upgrading of regional and county roads in Strandhill Peninsula”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

The Regional roads in the Sligo / Strandhill area are R292 from Sligo – Strandhill – Ballydrehid and R277 from the junction of R292 in Strandhill to the airport via Burma Road.

Substantial funding to improve these roads has been received from DOEHLG in recent years but more funding is needed to cater for existing traffic and development in the area.

49.RUMBLE STRIPS ON THE R290;

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide rumble strips on the R290 at Kilross national school”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

Amber flashing lights were erected on the approach road towards the school some time ago. Rumble strips or speed bars can be provided on the road on the approach to the school.

50. JETTY FACILITY AT DOORLY PARK;

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

“To ask Sligo County Council for the provision of a jetty facility at Doorly Park to facilitate tourists and local people using the water bus”.

In Response Mr J. Walshe AO stated the following;

As the area is within the Borough of Sligo, it is not a matter for the County Council.

52. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON BARRACK ROAD, COLLOONEY;

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

“That Sligo County Council provides a pedestrian crossing with all requisite safety features, on the Barrack road in Collooney to facilitate those people using the adjacent school and Health Centre”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

The Council erected flashing lights at the approaches to the school in 2005. Speed bars are also laid on the road beside the school to slow down the traffic in the area. There is a 50km/h speed limit in the area.

There are no proposals to provide a pedestrian crossing.

Any pedestrian crossing on the road would have to be located away from the school due to the road alignment in the area.

53. CARNEY MINI-PLAN;

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

58. BALLINALACK COMMUNITY PARK COMMITTEE;

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

“That Sligo Co. Council make a financial contribution to Ballinalack Community Park Committee, Bunninadden to make up the shortfall in funding as indicated by the committee needed to carry out the first phase of phase two of the project”

In Response Mr J. Walshe AO stated the following;

The Community and Enterprise Section is presently compiling information on play and recreation facilities being developed by communities throughout the County. A number of groups have already approached the department requesting funding and this is presently being examined.

The County Manager stated that the application for funding would have to follow the proper financial procedures in order to be funded for the €70,000 requested.

Following a discussion the following resolution was;

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council make a contribution of €70000 to Ballinalack Community Park Development to the financed from the Development Contributions Scheme”.

59. SUNDAY BUS SERVICE;

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council requests the management of Bus Eireann to provide a Sunday bus service during the Summer period, on the Sligo-Strandhill route and the Sligo-Rosses Point route.”

60. ROAD SURFACE ON ROAD 294;

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

“That funding be provided to complete road surface on the R. Road 294 – section Kilturra to Colemans Cross and from where works finished on the Boyle Road out of Gurteen to Mullaghroe”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

These works can be considered in context of new Multi-Annual Road Restoration Programme if requested from Sligo County Council by relevant Government Department. The current programme 2006-2008 funded by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government has been substantially completed. 70% of 2008 programme will be completed in current year.

61. FOOTPATHS AT BELLAGHY;

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

“To request Sligo County Council and the NRA to carry out necessary alterations to footpaths at Bellaghy to provide safe access for wheelchair users”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

Alterations to public footpaths will be undertaken in the near future to facilitate safe access for wheelchair users in Bellaghy

62. SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT AT RESPOND HOUSING IN CURRY;

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

“The sewerage treatment plant located at Respond Housing in Curry has been overflowing for some time. I propose that connection to public sewerage scheme be provided by Respond in co-operation with Sligo County Council.”

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

This refers to 14 Number housing units, property of Respond, in Curry village. There is sufficient capacity at present to take this load into the public sewer and treatment works but subject to certain works being carried out.

Respond to make normal application for connection to public sewer and normal connection fees to be paid.
A gravity sewer, including any necessary manholes, to be laid and paid for by Respond, to facilitate the actual connection. A manhole will be required at point of connection to existing public sewer.
The development levy of 14x€761(£600)be paid for the connection, i.e. €10,654 in total. This was the levy in force at time of original commissioning.
Existing septic tank, pumping chamber and Bord na Mona peat beds be decommissioned, and the consequent waste disposed of in a licensed landfill following connection to public sewer.

63. WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT FOR STRANDHILL;

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

“To ask the County Manager what the current position is with regard to the construction of the proposed wastewater treatment plant for Strandhill.”

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

A Client’s Representative has been appointed to develop the contract Documents for this scheme. It is bundled together with Tubbercurry and Grange WwTW’s. The pre-qualification applications were received on 28th June. It is anticipated that the project will go to tender in August. Tender will be awarded by end of this year and construction will begin early in 2008. The project will be completed and operational in 2008.
In response to a query from Councillor Bree, Mr K. Larkin SE informed the meeting that in order to facilitate housing development in the area temporary works were carried out. These works were financed by the developer.

64. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES IN THE TOWN OF BALLYMOTE;

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

“When will Sligo County Council address the problem of traffic calming measures in the town of Ballymote”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE state the following;

A draft traffic management plan has been formulated for the town of Ballymote by the Road Design Department. This plan is at present being costed and itemised. Discrete elements of this plan may then be included in Road works Programme 2008 for consideration by members at local area meetings. A sum of €10,000 has been included in Road works Programme 2007 for traffic calming measures adjacent to Ballymote Secondary and National schools. A sum of €76,000 has also been included in programme for upgrade of footpaths in the town of Ballymote in the current year.

65. LIGHTS ON THE CUILBEG ROAD;

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

66. ELIMINATING THE CAUSES OF FLOODING AT SCARDEN, STRANDHILL ROAD;

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

67. TAKING CHARGE OF NEW HOUSING ESTATES IN THE COUNTY;

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

VOTES OF SYMPATHY;

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the family of the late Ted Conway, former engineer of Sligo County Council”.

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended Padraic Doddy on the death of his mother, Margaret”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Gordon on the death of her father, Jack Grady”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Sarah Selfe on the death of her brother, John Hunt”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Imelda McDonagh on the death of her brother, Paddy Cawley”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Blenkey on the death of her husband, John”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Martin Connolly on the death his mother, Mary B Connolly”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Maye on the death of her mother, Mary B Connolly”.

CONFERENCES

“That Councillors J. Sherlock, G. Murray and Councillor G. Mullaney be nominated to attend the Local Government Planning Service on the 5th of July in The Baltimore Harbour Hotel, Baltimore, Co. Cork.

CORRESPONDANCE:

That a copy of Correspondence 73 (h) be circulated to Councillor S. MacManus and Councillor J. Sherlock.
Councillor M. Gormley expressed disappointment at the reply received from the Minister for Justice in relation to Garda numbers in the Tubbercurry division.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

• Councillor P. Barry asked if any correspondence had been received form Rally Ireland in relation to the stage of the World Rally to be held in Sligo in November 2007. He was informed that no correspondence had been received to date in relation to this.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS CIRCULATED AT MEETING:

List of forthcoming Conference

Letter dated 26th June 2007, from the Minister for Health and Children, regarding nurses pay and working conditions.
Letter dated 27th June 2007, from Monaghan Town Council regarding resolution passed.

Meeting Date 02/07/2007