Minutes 2008
Minutes of October Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on the 6th October 2008 in County Hall, Riverside, Sligo at 11am
MEMBERS PRESENT:
- Councillor Baker,
- Councillor Barrett,
- Councillor Barry,
- Councillor Bree,
- Councillor Cawley,
- Councillor Colleary,
- Councillor Conmy,
- Councillor Devins,
- Councillor Fleming,
- Councillor Fox,
- Councillor Gormley,
- Councillor Henry,
- Councillor Higgins,
- Councillor Kilgannon,
- Councillor Leonard,
- Councillor Lundy,
- Councillor MacManus,
- Councillor McGarry,
- Councillor McGrath,
- Councillor McLoughlin,
- Councillor Mullaney,
- Councillor Murray,
- Councillor Queenan
- Councillor Sherlock
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
- Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
- Mr D. Breen, Director of Services
- Ms R. McNulty, Director of Services
- Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services
- Ms M. Leydon, Head of Finance
- Mr J. O’Dwyer, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer
- Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer
- Mr F. Moylan, Acting Senior Planner
- Mr M. Ryan, Senior Executive Engineer
- Mr F. O’Driscoll, Senior Executive Engineer
- Mr M. Carty, Senior Executive Engineer
- Mr P. Hampson, Senior Executive Engineer
- Ms D. McDonagh, Acting Administrative Officer
- Mr P. Doyle, Senior Executive Engineer
- Ms P. Bergin, Executive Scientist
- Ms E. Garvin, Administrative Officer
- Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
- Ms L. Conlon, Clerical Officer
- Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator
CATHAOIRLEACH:
-
he Cathaoirleach, Councillor J. Devins presided.
1. MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON THE 1ST SEPTEMBER 2008;
Councillor S. MacManus asked that the minutes of the 1st September 2008 be amended in relation to Item Number 36 on the Agenda in relation to identifying ownership of lands at Mullaghmore.
The meeting agreed to this amendment.
Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the September Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on the 1st September 2008 as amended”.
2. MINUTES OF THE TUBBERCURRY ELECTORAL MEETING HELD ON THE 29TH JULY 2008;
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Meeting held of the Council held on the 29th July 2008”.
3. MINUTES OF THE BALLYMOTE AREA MEETING HELD ON THE 10TH JULY 2008;
Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Ballymote Area Meeting held on the 10th July 2008”.
4. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON THE 10TH JUNE 2008;
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 10th June 2008”.
5. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 DISPOSAL OF LAND AT COOLANEY, CO. SLIGO;
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of land at Coolaney, Co. Sligo”.
6. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 DISPOSAL OF DWELLING AT KILRUSHEIGHTER, TEMPLEBOY, CO. SLIGO;
Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“To approve the disposal of dwelling at Kilrusheighter, Templeboy, Co. Sligo to Eamon and Martina Hardiman, 9 Sycamore Drive, Barrybeg, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, which shall be carried out in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001”
7.SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 DISPOSAL OF PROPORTY AT DRUMISKABBOLE;
Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at Drumiskabbole to Mr. Owen McLean”.
8. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DWELLING HOUSE, P.E.T. SYSTEM, RAISED PERCOLATION AREA AT GLANN, CULLEENS TD., DROMORE WEST AND LACKAGH, DRUMFIN, CO. SLIGO;
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
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, P.E.T. system, raised percolation area, access onto public road and all associated site development works at Glann, Culleens Td., Dromore West, Co. Sligo.
- Construction of a dwelling house, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, access onto public road and all associated site development works at Lackagh, Drumfin, Co. Sligo.
9. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 THE PROVISON OF THE DEMOUNTABLE DWELLING, SEPTIC TANK AND PERCOLATION AREA, AND ALL ASSOCIATED SITE DEVELOPMENT WORKS AT KILFREE, GURTEEN, CO. SLIGO;
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
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: -
- Provision of a demountable dwelling, septic tank and percolation area, and all associated site development works at Kilfree, Gurteen, Co. Sligo.
10. DECLARE THE FOLLOWING ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 11(1) OF THE ROADS ACT, 1993;
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council being satisfied of their general public utility declare the following roads as public roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993.”(report attached)
| Road Number | Location |
|---|---|
| L-61014 | Road situate in the housing estate of “Willow Wood” in the townland of Kilboglashy, Ballisodare. |
| L-28016-0 | Road situate in the housing estate of “Sliabh Gamp” in the townland of Coolaney. |
| L-33111-0 | Road situate in the housing estate of “Ros Beolain” in the townland of Rosses Point. |
“That Sligo County Council take in charge the following:-
- Willow Wood, Housing Estate in Kilboglashy, Ballisodare.
- Sliabh Gamp in the townland of Coolaney.
- Ros Beolain, in the townland of Rosses Point.
11. APPROVE ALLOCATIONS UNDER THE DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTION FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY, SPORTS, RECREATIONAL, TOURISM AND CULTURAL FACILITIES SCHEME 2008;
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
AND AGREED
“To approve allocations under the Development Contribution Funding for Community, Sports, Recreational, Tourism and Cultural Facilities Scheme 2008”
After a discussion the following resolutions were agreed;
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To ask the Director of Services to provide funding for Aclare, Lough Talt, Banada and Tourlestrane in the next round of funding when it comes on stream, under the community, sports, recreational tourism and cultural facilities scheme 2008”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To ask the Director of Services for Community, Enterprise and the Arts, Ms McNulty to prioritise Dromore West Community Centre in the next available allocation of funding”.
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To ask the Director of Services fro Community, Enterprise and Arts to prioritise funding for Ballintogher Community Centre in the next allocation of funds”.
12. FIX A DATE FOR THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE ENNISCRONE WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS;
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“That the official opening of the Enniscrone Wastewater Treatment Works take place on 10th November 2008”.
13. FIX A DATE FOR THE 2009 BUDGET MEETING;
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“That the date for the Budget Meeting 2009 be fixed for the 15th December 2008”.
14. FIX A DATE FOR A SPECIAL MEETING TO RECEIVE PRESENTATIONS FROM VARIOUS ORGANISATIONS;
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“That the date for Special Meeting to receive presentations from various organisations be fixed for the 20th October 2008”.
After a discussion the following resolution was agreed;
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“That Coilte Teoranta would be invited into this chamber to address the issues which members have concerns with regarding hedge trimming and road maintenance”.
15. APPLICATIONS FOR OLDER PERSONS GRANTS, DISABILITY GRANTS AND MOBILITY GRANTS;
It was agreed that Item 33 also be taken at this time;
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
“That Sligo County Council consider raising a loan to finance grant applications for older persons grants, disability grants and mobility grants, should the Minister for the Environment fail to provide additional funding for those schemes, €1M over 20 years and €8,000 per Annum
Proposed by Councillor A. Colleary
“I propose that Sligo County Council use their €100,000 surplus in the 2008 budget for back up to department grants for the elderly and disabled. This to be used to raise a loan of €900,000 to assist with the already committed monies of (€300,000 and €564,000), to give a total expenditure for 2008 by Sligo County Council of €1,760,00”.
In Response Ms D. Clarke DOS stated the following;
The current situation regarding the grants schemes is as follows:
Allocation from Department €491,790
| Number | Amount | |
|---|---|---|
| Grants paid to date in 2008 | 120 | €563,256 |
| Commitments remaining (approved grants) | 41 | €208,212 |
|
||
| Inspected but not approved | 109 | €648,092 |
| Not yet inspected | 156 | Not available |
Sligo County Council was advised via circular letter dated 18 September 2008 of a supplementary allocation of €300,000 (not including local authority’s own contribution). €193,567 of this allocation is required to cover remaining commitments, therefore, €106,433 is available to fund additional grant approvals which, when including the Council’s 20% contribution, increases to €133,041.
I would not recommend the raising of a loan for a number of reasons
- Approval from the Department for such a loan may not be forthcoming particularly in the current economic climate.
- The Council is currently carrying loan repayments of approximately €34,000 per annum for a period of 20 years in respect of a loan of €600,000 raised in 2002 to clear a back-log of grants at the time.
- The raising of a loan would result in the Council incurring the cost of 100% of the grants awarded, instead of only 20% as is the normal practice.
- A loan of €1 m would only cover the grants on hand. Consideration should be given to future years where funding may not be significant and how grants are to be financed on a long-term basis.
- There may be audit concerns attached to borrowings of this nature i.e. borrowing to cover current expenditure.
A proposal will be put to the Housing SPC at their next meeting scheduled for the end of October as to how we should deal with applications in future particularly those that we might deem to be priority cases i.e. medical grounds, hospital release etc.
It was agreed by members that there would be a 5 minute recess in order to discuss this Item.
After a discussion the following resolutions were agreed;
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
“That this Council agrees to defer motion 33 until the November Meeting of this Council, to get a report from the S.P.C. for Housing”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“That letters of offer be issued on the understanding that draw down will be in 2009”.
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
“That Sligo County Council congratulates Minister of State for Housing, for the extra €300,000 for disability grants and mobility grants Mr Finneran secured following the meeting with the Minister in July”.
16. STRANDHILL PARKING PLACES BYE-LAWS;
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
“To ask the County Manager to ensure that no parking charges will be applied under the proposed Strandhill Parking Places Bye-Laws”.
Mr T. Kilfeather, DOS informed the meeting that it had been agreed at the September Council meeting that no decision would be made on the Strandhill Parking Places Bye-Laws pending further consultations with interested groups.
17. FIRST TIME BUYERS GRANT;
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To call on the Government to re-introduce the ‘First Time Buyers Grant’ to assist young people enter the housing market and to stimulate the house construction sector”.
18. TAKE IN CHARGE THE ESTATE OCEAN LINKS, STRANDHILL;
This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.
19. T. JUNCTION AT BALLYFREE, CO. SLIGO;
A North Westwards from the railway bridge in front of houses to cater for pedestrians in the area. A portion of Mr. and Mrs. Jennings house front garden is required to do this. Accommodation works would be necessary such as replacing the existing boundary fence with a new fence/wall.
The proposal can be considered for funding under the 2009 Roadwork’s Scheme under the Discretionary Improvement Grant. A costing would be provided for the next meeting of the Sligo/Strandhill Electoral Area Meeting.
20. SPEED RAMPS ON SHORE ROAD, STRANDHILL;
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“That Sligo County Council provide speed ramps as necessary to the Shore Road, Strandhill, on the approach to the Promenade car-park in the interest of pedestrian safety and that all other road safety works are also carried out at this location to discourage speeding”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
This project can be considered in context of 2009 Roadwork’s Programme when being considered at local area electoral meeting in February 2009.
21. COMBAT SPEED ON HOLY WELL ROAD, CARROWROE CUILBEG RD 287 AND R292;
This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.
22. PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE DIFFERENT AREAS WHICH WILL MEAN ENNISCRONE, EASKEY AND DROMORE WEST WILL BE UNDER THE BALLYMOTE OR SLIGO AREAS;
It was agreed that Items 22, 23 and 37 be taken at this time;
Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“I will ask that members of the Gardaí become involved with the local communities before they go ahead with proposed changes in the different areas which will mean Enniscrone, Easkey and Dromore West will be under the Ballymote or Sligo areas. These areas have been in the Ballina District which is only a short distance from these areas”.
23. UPDATE ON THE NEW GARDA STATION AT EASKEY;
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
“That this Council request a report on Gardaí Services in the West Sligo area, and, an update on the proposed new Garda Station in Easkey”.
37. DOWNGRADE OF GARDA PRESENSE IN THE DROMORE WEST AREA;
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to call on the Minister for Justice to ensure that there will be no downgrade of Garda presence in the Dromore West Area as a result of recent boundary changes”.
It was agreed that Sligo County Council write to An Garda Síochana and the Minister for Justice in relation to above.
24. LOCAL AREA ENHANCEMENT SCHEME PROGRAMME FOR 2009;
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
“To request the Director of Services to include the villages of Carney and Rathcormack in the Local Area enhancement scheme programme for 2009 in association with Sligo Leader Company”.
In Response Mr M. Carty SEE stated the following;
Sligo County Council will work closely with the SLDCo. To identify and prioritise villages for inclusion in the scheme. The Local Area Enhancement Scheme for 2009 will be funded through the Sligo LEADER Partnership Co. (SLPCo).
25. STUDY AT HUGHES BRIDGE/BUNDORAN ROAD;
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
“Sligo County Council agreed to a motion a number of years ago calling on Sligo Local Authorities and the National Roads Authorities to carry out a study at Hughes Bridge/Bundoran road area with a view to improving traffic flow. To ask the Director of Services for a progress report on this study at the October Meeting”.
In Response Mr T. Brennan SE stated the following;
The Hughes Bridge/Bundoran Road area forms part of the 26 km long N4/N15 National Primary Road Realignment Scheme from Sligo (Hughes Bridge) to the Leitrim County Boundary. In 2007 the National Roads Authority funded and approved the appointment of consultants to advance the formal planning and preliminary design of the entire scheme through to the submission of the scheme for approval to An Bord Pleanála. The planning for this scheme is programmed to be completed by the end of 2010. The overall consultant’s brief includes the analysis and design of an upgrade of the junction layouts at the Hughes Bridge and Bundoran Road area to cope with present and future traffic flows. This includes proposals to widen Hughes Bridge. This work is ongoing with final scheme design due to be published and submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval in 2010. Subject to the approval of An Bord Pleanála of the scheme and NRA funding the Council will then be in a position to proceed with the detailed design and construction of a preferred scheme.
Following a discussion on this item the meeting agreed to write to the NRA requesting that they bring forward the construction of the proposed scheme improvements at Hughes Bridge and the N4/N15/N169 junction.
26. SLIGO DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2005 – 2011;
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor J. Devins
“In the Sligo County Development Plan 2005 – 2011 in section 3.8 special provisions for the Rosses Point Peninsula, it states that a mini plan for Rosses Point will be prepared as soon as possible. What stage is this plan at and when will it be presented to the Council”.
In Response Mr F. Moylan, A/Senior Planner stated the following;
It is proposed to continue the preparation of mini-plans for the remaining 16 settlements listed in Section 3, Schedule B of the current Sligo County Development Plan. It is envisaged that these plans will be prepared in conjunction with the statutory review of the County Development Plan which is to commence in April 2009. Accordingly, mini-plans will be prepared for: Aclare, Ballincar, Ballintogher, Ballygawley, Banada, Bellaghy, Cliffoney, Drumcliff, Easkey, Gorteen, Mullaghmore, Ransboro, Rathcormack, Riverstown, Rosses Point, Tourlestrane. It is likely that a different approach will be adopted than for the existing mini-plans i.e. Coolaney, Grange, Ballysodare, Collooney and Dromore West. The revised format will consist of a written statement containing 10-15 specific objectives and a zoning map that would indicate basic use types: general business/village centre, community facilities, public open space, industrial and residential. A development boundary will also be indicated around which will be a buffer zone. These mini-plans will address such issues as planned infrastructure, sustainable growth and balanced development, and will incorporate provisions to ensure compliance with Part V requirements in respect of the provision of social and affordable housing.
27. FARM WASTE MANAGEMENT SCHEME;
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the Minister for Agriculture and the Government to extend the date for completion of works under Farm Waste Management Scheme”.
28. MAMMOGRAM SERVICES IN SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL;
Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council condemns the Government on the recent announcement regarding the mammogram services in Sligo General Hospital and further condemn the Minister for Health on her recent unhelpful meeting with the Sligo Cancer Care Committee”.
Councillor D. Bree dissented from this motion as he contended that no charge was levied for this service at Sligo General Hospital.
29. CANCER CARE SERVICES IN SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL;
Proposed by Councillor P. Conmy
Seconded by Councillor I. Fox
“That I will ask if there is any reply from An Taoiseach regards the proposed deputation in relation to the Cancer Care Services in Sligo General Hospital”.
In Response Mr F. MacNabb, Meetings Administrator informed the meeting of the various reply’s received.
30. SPEED RAMPS AT MARKREE HEIGHTS AT COLLOONEY;
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“That Sligo County Council provide two number speed ramps at suitable locations in Markree Heights, Collooney, in the interest of pedestrian safety”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
This project can be considered in context of 2009 Roadwork’s Programme when being considered at local area electoral meeting in February 2009.
31. GLACKBAUN GROUP WATER SCHEME;
Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
“To call on Sligo County Council for an update on the Glackbaun Group Water Scheme and to ask that all roads affected by the installation be surfaced dressed to a satisfactory standard. And further to ask the cost of extending the water mains to householders in Carrickoneilleen, Fivemilebourne”.
In Response Mr F. O’Driscoll SEE stated the following;
- All pipelines have been installed at a total length of 17,000 metres. Boundary boxes for meters have also been installed with 95% complete.
Reinstatement is on-going with 50% complete. Recent heavy rains have delayed the remaining reinstatement but every effort is being made to ensure the contractor keeps to his current programme. On completion of the scheme permanent road reinstatement to road network will be undertaken. A sum for this purpose has been included in the contract.
The programme is for reinstatement to be completed by the end of October. - The cost of extending the water main to existing householders in Carrickoneilleen, Fivemilebourne is €250,000
32. LAYING OF PIPES ON THE GLACKBAUN GWS;
Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
That Sligo County Council take action on the preservation of ancient stone bridges that are being interfered with as a result of laying of pipes on the Glackbaun GWS.
In Response Mr F. O’Driscoll SEE stated the following;
There is no threat to old bridges from the laying of pipelines on this scheme.
An essential requirement for the project was the laying of watermains at 4 bridge locations. The pipes were laid over the arch of each bridge so as to cause the least interference. The pipe is robust and is surrounded by concrete and will not be affected by traffic. Mr. G Salter Senior Executive Engineer (structures) has inspected bridges with resident engineering staff during the course of contract to ensure no damage occurs to bridge structures. He will continue to monitor construction during course of contract.
The Council intends retaining all these bridges and makes every effort to maintain the built heritage of the county.
34. HGV’S ON OPEN TRAILERS AND OPEN TOP CONTAINERS;
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the Minister for Transport to introduce regulation of securing the contents of HGVs on open trailers and open top containers”.
35. TUBBERCURRY GARDA STATION;
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the Minister for Justice and Chief Superintendent of the Garda Siochana to
- Have the Garda Station in Tubbercurry open 24 hours a day.
- Have extra Gardaíassigned to the Station.
- Improve the facilities for members of the force.
36. TENDERING FOR MATERIALS/MACHINERY FOR ROADWORKS SCHEMES WORKS;
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure how the process regarding tendering for materials/machinery for roadworks schemes works”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
The Council procures for all its supplies / services / machinery hire as part of a National Service sponsored by Kerry County Council in conjunction with the Department. The process is advertised both nationally and locally in august / September period each year.
The Council in the case of some individual roadwork schemes will tender separately for a specific job. This is advertised in accordance procurement rules.
38. ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR IN LOCAL AUTHORITY HOUSES;
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To seek clarification of this Councils Policy in relation to tenants of Local Authority houses who are involved in anti social behaviour to the detriment of their community, and request better co ordination between H.S.E support personnel, officials of Sligo County Council and Gardaí authorities”.
In Response Ms D. Clarke, DOS stated the following;
In September 2005, Sligo County Council adopted a policy for dealing with Anti-Social Behaviour, entitled “Policies, Objectives and Strategies in Combating Anti-Social Behaviour”. This policy was drafted following consultation with other agencies and community groups.
All complaints received by the Council relating to anti-social behaviour are dealt with in accordance with the adopted policy. Each complaint is investigated thoroughly by the Housing Investigations Officer who liaises, when necessary, with relevant agencies, including the HSE and the Gardaí.
A copy of the policy can be made available to members on request from the Housing Office.
The recently published Housing Bill incorporates provisions relating specifically to anti-social behaviour with extends the definition to cover graffiti and damage to property. The extension of the definition will improve the local authority’s powers to deal with anti-social behaviour.
39. JUNCTION TO ROADS N.17 AND 430 AT CASHEL GATES;
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To request that Sligo County Council again seek funding from National Roads Authority to carry out improvement works to junction to roads N.17 and 430 at Cashel gates”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
In September 2007 Roads Department Sligo County Council submitted an application to the NRA for grant aid to improve junction of national route N17 and local road L4505 Cashel Gates. The estimated cost of the project was €459,000.
To date no grant approval has been received from the NRA to commence this project.
40. HEDGECUTTING ON LOCAL ROADS;
It was agreed Items 40 and 51 be taken at this time;
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“Hedgecutting on Local Roads is important for road safety, Sligo County Council should encourage land owners to have the work carried out, this season”.
51. OVERGROWN HEDGES CUT BACK ON RAODS IN ROSSES POINT VILLAGE IN THE INTEREST OF ROAD SAFETY AND TOURIST ATTRACTION;
It was agreed Items 40 and 51 be taken at this time;
Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor J. Devins
“To ask the Director of Services to put a plan in place to have overgrown hedges cut back on roads in Rosses Point village in the interest of road safety and tourist attraction”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
Under section S. 70 of the Roads Act 1993 it is the duty of the landowners and occupiers of land to take all reasonable care to ensure that the trees, hedges and other vegetation growing on their land are not or could not become a danger to people using or working on a public road.
41. GATEWAY INNOVATION FUND;
Proposed by Councillor I. Henry
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“To ask this Council to update us as to which projects under the Gateway Innovation Fund have commenced, which projects are approved, which projects are yet to be approved and the position for funding for the pedestrianisation of O’Connell Street”.
It was agreed by the members to write to the Borough Council requesting a report on the current position regards the pedestrianisation of O’Connell Street”.
42. PUBLIC TOILETS IN STRANDHILL;
Proposed by Councillor I. Henry
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“To ask this Council have they plans in place for public toilets in Strandhill”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
The toilets in the maritime centre are public toilets. At the time the maritime centre was built in Strandhill, a decision was made, and agreed by the County Council and the Community Development Association that the public toilets would be demolished in the public car park and provided instead, downstairs in the maritime centre. It was agreed that improved signage would be provided.
43. BREAST CHECK IN SLIGO;
Proposed by Councillor I. Henry
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
“To ask this Council to write to Minister for Health, Ms Mary Harney for a date for the roll out of breast check in Sligo as a matter of urgency”.
Following a discussion the meeting agreed the following motion;
“To ask this Council to write to Minister for Health, Ms Mary Harney and Mr Tony O’Brien, CEO of Breast Check, for a date for the rollout of Breast Check in Sligo”.
44. NORTH EDGE OF LADIES BRAE ROAD;
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That this Council call on Coilte to restore view on North Edge of ladies Brae Road and clean up area where trees have been cut down”.
45. ENFORCEMENT CASES;
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
“To ask the County Manager (a) how many Enforcement cases has the Council currently before the Courts (b) what are the names of the development companies which the Council has prosecuted (c) when were the cases first mentioned in Court (d) on how many occasions was each case adjourned and further to ask if there are increased legal fees paid to the Councils legal agents when cases are adjourned month after month and to ask if all the Councils legal fees are paid by the defendants in cases where the Council brings enforcement proceedings to Court.”
In Response Mr J. Murphy SEO stated the following;
Legal action is currently been taken in respect of 55 Enforcement cases. Legal proceedings were taken against the following development companies since January 2007.
| Names | First Mentioned | Number of Adjournments |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Distributors Ltd | 22/11/06 | 5 adjournments |
| AllenPark Properties Ltd | 3/09/07 | 3 adjournments |
| Felix McHugh Builders Ltd | 31/03/08 | 2 adjournments |
The legal fees paid in the above 3 cases were recouped to the Council by the developers in question. The legal fees reflect the amount of work involved (including adjournments). Every effort is made to recover legal costs from developers. It is however a matter for the Court to impose the legal costs on developers in cases where the Council is successful.
It was agreed to circulate Mr. Murphy’s report to the members;
46. REINTRODUCE UNIVERSITY FEES;
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
“That this Council states its opposition to any proposal to reintroduce University fees”.
A general discussion took place on this Item following which the motion was agreed with the following amendment “to include all third level fees” Councillor J. Devins asked to be recorded as dissenting.
47. THE NATIONAL WATER SUMMIT CONFERENCE;
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
“Given the growing public concern regarding the privatisation of water services does the County Manager consider it appropriate that Sligo County Council be associated with a Conference – The National Water Summit Conference – which is sponsored solely by commercial interests.”
In Response Mr T. Kilfeather DOS stated the following;
The 2nd National Summit Water Conference organised by the Sunday Business Post Newspaper takes place in Dublin on 22nd and 23rd October. This is the second such event and Sligo County Council will, as it was in 2007, be represented not just as attendees but also as contributors to the Conference. Kathleen McTiernan, Rural Water Liaison Officer, will give a presentation on Water Charging focusing on the current position, specifically the impact on schools, commercial sector and the farming sector, the benefits of metering in all sectors from the Local Authority point of view, the advantages and disadvantages from the consumers point of view and the challenges for the future.
Among the other topics on which papers will be presented at this years Conference are the following:
- River Basin Management Plans – their implications for LA’s and other stakeholders,
- Implementation of the Drinking Water Regulations to ensure safe and secure drinking water,
- The Water Framework Directive,
- Assessing Cryptosporidium risk,
- Water Conservation and Demand Management in the Rural Group Water Scheme sector
- Wastewater Discharge Regulations 2007
- Planning for cost effective waste water management.
The above which represent only some of the topics to be covered at the Conference all impact on the day to day operations of the Sligo Local Authorities in the delivery of water and waste water programmes both revenue and capital. This Conference represents an excellent opportunity to gain the benefit of experts in various areas on what is happening currently and more importantly the future implications for how we do our business. Other contributors to this Conference as well as Sligo County Council will include the Office of Environmental Enforcement EPA, The Department of the Environment, National Federation of Group Schemes, Dundalk Institute of Technology and Kings College London. There will also be presentations from a number of contractors and consultants engaged in business in the water and wastewater sectors.
Among the bodies who attended the 2007 Conference were Fingal, Limerick, Wicklow, Cavan, Tipperary North, Tipperary South, Cork and Galway County Councils, IFA, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Trinity College, Dept of Environment, Scottish Water, Northern Ireland Water and representatives from some of the River Basin Districts.
In summary at a time of increasing regulation, major supply challenges, expectations of improved service and increased efficiencies we would consider our involvement in a major Conference such as this as most beneficial to our operations.
48. RESURFACE REGIONAL ROAD R294;
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
“To ask the Director of Services for roads to ensure that funding will be provided in the 2009 estimates to repair and re surface the regional road R294 from Joe Dan’s pub, Drummartin to the County Boundary West of Lough Talt”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
This proposal will be considered in context of 2009 Roadwork’s Scheme when being drafted at local area meeting in February 2009.
49. CAR PARK AT RHUE CEMETERY, TUBBERCURRY;
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
“To request the Director of Services to explore the possibility of providing a car park at Rhue cemetery, Tubbercurry in order to allow for the free movement of traffic on Road 413”.
In Response Mr M. Carty SEE stated the following;
Sligo County Council Community and Enterprise Department have established the owner of the property identified following on site discussions with the Councillor and local representative. Discussions have commenced with the landowner, no agreement has been achieved to date. Archaeological interests have been identified on the lands included for discussion. It was agreed that a report on the ownership of lands opposite Rhue cemetery will be given to the next meeting of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Committee.
50. RESURFACE ROAD IN DOON, GURTEEN, (531);
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
“Road in Doon, Gurteen (531) was dug up due to the laying of water pipes as part of the Monasteraden GWS upgrade/takeover now that this work is complete I am calling on Sligo County Council to resurface this road”.
In Response Mr F. O’Driscoll SEE stated the following;
Sligo County Council Water Services Section installed approximately 550 metres of new watermain along Local road L-81095 (formerly County road 531) in the townland of Doon, as part of the takeover works for the Monasteraden Group Water Scheme. It is anticipated that permanent reinstatement of these works will be completed by the Roads Department later this month.
52. COMPLETE WORKS ON OIL SUPPLY LINES TO HOUSES NO’S 2,3 AND 6 IN CAMROSS ESTATE, BALLYMOTE;
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To call on Sligo County Council to complete works on oil supply lines to houses number’s 2,3 and 6 in Camross Estate, Ballymote and to address the issue of plaster falling off boundary walls on houses 1 to 8”.
In Response Mr D. Clarke, DOS stated the following;
Works to oil supply lines and boundary walls will be complete by the end of 2008.
53. CORRAN MILL ESTATE, BALLYMOTE;
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“Given the genuine concerns of the residents of Corran Mill Estate, Ballymote in relation to the operation of a management company 1) Rising Costs 2) Value for Money 3) Accountability, I am calling for a revision of the system of management companies”.
In Response Mr D. Breen, DOS stated the following;
Sligo County Council has no function in relation to management companies however he pointed out that the legislation is presently being prepared dealing with the operation of management companies. The meeting agreed to request Minister Gormley to expedite this legislation.
54. SIGNAGE AND ROADS MARKINGS TO CASTLE GROVE ESTATE, BALLYMOTE;
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To call on Sligo County Council to provide signage and road markings to Castle Grove Estate, Ballymote”.
In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;
The estate in question is not in the charge of Sligo County Council. Roads Department has no responsibility for maintenance of this estate. If hazardous road, will be examined by staff.
55. FARM WASTE MANAGEMENT SCHEME;
This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.
56. NATIONAL ROADS AUTHORITY ANSWERABLE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT;
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To ask the Minister for Environment, Mr John Gormley to make the National Roads Authority answerable to his Department”.
It was agreed to write to the Minister for Transport and Minister for Environment in relation to this matter.
57. MAJOR EMERGENCY PLAN;
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
“To call on the County Manager to put in place a major emergency plan comprising of all relevant agencies to assist in major emergencies”.
In Response Ms D. Clarke DOS stated the following;
County Manager H. Kearns and Director of Service Ms D. Clarke completed an updated the inter agency response plan to Major Emergencies in accordance with guidance found in the National Framework for Major Emergency Management.
A robust and comprehensive response protocol is now in place and training has been undertaken, including interagency exercises to ensure a coordinated and efficient response to incidents.
The next major joint agency exercise has been already planned and shall involve the “Primary Response Agencies” and many voluntary groups. These exercises improve preparedness, establish clear working relationships and provide invaluable experience to staff in dealing with incidents and improving skills.
Sligo County Councils Major Emergency Plan is available to view on our web site by members of the public.
58. VOTES OF SYMPATHY;
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor A. Colleary
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Kathleen Kilgannon on the death of Philomena Miskovich”.
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Councillor Seamus Kilgannon and Billy Kilgannon on the death of Philomena Miskovich”.
Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr John Wynne on the death of his mother, Kathleen”.
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Pat Henry on the death of his brother, Pat”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Jenny Galvin on the death of her son, Karl”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Pat Williams on the death of his father, John”.
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Teresa Dodd and family on the death of her husband, John”.
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Rory Williams on the death of his father, John”.
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the relatives of the late Ned Mullen”.
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the relatives of the late Michael Collins”.
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the relatives of the late Declan Lavin”.
59. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS;
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Geevagh Senior Ladies on winning the County Senior Football Final”.
64. ADDITIONAL ITEMS CIRCULATED AT MEETING:
- The Forthcoming Conference List
The Meeting ended at 6.15pm.
Meeting Date 06/10/2008