Minutes 2008

Minutes of May Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 19th May 2008 in County Hall, Riverside, Sligo at 11am


MEMBERS PRESENT:

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


OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr T. Kilfeather, Deputy County Manager
  • Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
  • Mr D. Breen, Director of Services
  • Ms R. McNulty, Director of Services
  • Ms M. Leydon, A/Head of Finance
  • Mr T. Carroll, Senior Engineer
  • Mr K. Larkin, Senior Engineer
  • Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer
  • Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Ms K. McDaniel, Acting Senior Engineer
  • Mr F. Moylan, Acting Senior Planner
  • Mr P. Hampson, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Mr D. Harrison, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Ms L. Conlon, Clerical Officer
  • Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
  • Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator


CATHAOIRLEACH: 

  • The Cathaoirleach, Councillor S. Kilgannon presided.

The meeting agreed to suspend standing orders to allow a discussion on the down grading of cancer services in Sligo General Hospital.  It was agreed that this suspension would take place after Item No. 12 on the Agenda.

1. MINUTES OF ADJOURNED ORDINARY MEETING ON THE 14TH OF APRIL 2008:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on the 14th of April 2008”.

2. MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THE 7TH OF APRIL 2008:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on the 7th of April 2008”.

3. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON THE 4TH OF MARCH 2008:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West Area Meeting held on the 4th of March 2008”.

4.MINTUES OF THE SPC1 MEETING HELD ON THE 20TH FEBRUARY 2008:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the SPC1 Meeting held on the 20th February 2008”.

5. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON THE 12TH OF NOVEMBER 2007:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West Area Meeting held on the 12th of November 2007”. 

6. MINUTES OF THE BALLYMOTE AREA MEETING HEL DON THE 13TH OF NOVEMBER 2007:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Ballymote Area Meeting held on the 13th of November 2007”.

7. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001, THE DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT SHROOF, MONASTERADEN, CO. SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at Shroof, Monasteraden, Co. Sligo to Michael and Margaret Christie”.

8. APPROVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001, THE PROPOSED CONSRUCTION OF A NEW SLUDGE HOLDING TANK AND SLUDGE MIXING TANK AT NORTH SLIGO; 

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001, the proposed construction of a new Sludge holding tank and Sludge mixing tank at North Sligo Water Treatment Works in the Townland of Barnaderg, Co. Sligo”. 

9. APPROVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001, THE PROPOSED CONSRUCTION OF A NEW STORM WATER HOLDING TANK, AT SEA FIELD, CLIFF ROAD, ENNISCRONE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor P. Conmy

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001, the proposed construction of a new Storm Water Holding Tank at Sea Field, Cliff Road, Carrowhubbuck South Td, Enniscrone, County Sligo”.  

10. SLIGO WESTERN BY PASS:

 It was agreed that Items 30, 45 and 46 be taken at this time;

To consider proposed variation no. 6 to the Sligo and Environs Development Plan 2004 –2010 to show a corridor for a Sligo Western Bypass. 

Mr T.Kilfeather DOS outlined that there would be further extensive consultation with the public before any route selection process would be agreed.

After a discussion it was;

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

AND AGREED

“That a map indicating all the alternative routes examined as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Western Bypass be circulated to the Council”.

30. VARIATION NO. 6 OF SLIGO AND ENVIRONS DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2004 – 2010:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor I. Henry

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council refuses to make Variation NO.6 of Sligo and Environs Development Plan 2004-2010 to show a corridor for a Sligo Western Bypass as previously proposed by officials of this Council”.

45. SLIGO WESTERN BY PASS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council agree that to locate the Western Bypass in an area between the two Sea Roads would not be consistent with the proper planning and sustainable development in the area. Therefore, Sligo County Council will locate the Western Bypass west of the second Sea Road with a view to ensuring that the accepted negative impact on those people living between the two Sea Roads be prevented, I propose that the content of this motion be enshrined in the existing development plan and all future development plans”.

46. SLIGO WESTERN BY PASS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council accept that to locate the Western Bypass in an area between the two Sea Roads would be considered to be unreasonable in all the circumstances and in particular to the detrimental planning affects on the residents in the area. Therefore, Sligo County Council as part of an environmental impact assessment of the Western Bypass will not consider that area between the two Sea Roads as it is accepted that it is not a suitable alternative, I propose that the content of this motion be enshrined in the existing development plan and all future development plans”. 

In Response Mr T. Kilfeather, DOS stated that the the County Managers Report has recommended that the variation No. 6 of the Sligo and Environs Development Plan 2004-2010 to show a corridor for a Sligo Western Bypass, be not proceeded with and that further public consultation be held in relation to alternative route options. 

Mr D. Breen, DOS stated that the views of the members were very clear and that these would be taken into account by officials.  However, he indicated that any route selection process would have to be done in a fair and impartial manner and all routes would be considered in such a process.  He added that the legality of the process could be questioned if all options were not examined. 

The members requested that the contents of Cllr Devins motions be included in the Draft Development Plan.  Mr Breen indicated that the terms of these motions were unclear and he suggested that a similar provision to that included in the  current Sligo and Environs Plan be included in the draft.

It was agreed that legal advice be sought in relation to this for the next Council Meeting.

11. ADOPTION OF SUPPLEMENTARY DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTION SCHEME – WESTERN DISTRIBUTER ROAD:

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

“To adopt the Supplementary Development Contribution Scheme - Western Distributor Road”.

A general discussion took place on this Item and as an agreement could not be reached the Cathaoirleach asked that a poll be taken.

For: Baker, Barrett, Bree, Cawley, Conmy, Devins, Fleming, Fox, Kilgannon, Lundy, MacManus, Mullaney, Murray, Queenan and Sherlock.

Against:  Higgins and McGarry

Abstained: Barry, Gormley, Healy McGowan and Henry

As the result was 15 for, 2 against and 4 abstained the motion was carried.

12. COSTING VERSION OF THE PREVIOUSLY ADOPTED 2008 BUDGET:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Costing Version of the previously adopted 2008 Budget”.

SUPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS TO ALLOW A DISCUSSION ON THE DOWNGRADING OF CANCER CARE SERVICES IN SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:

43.  CANCERS SERVICES AT SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:

It was agreed at this time that the Council suspend standing order to discuss the down grading of cancer care services in Sligo General Hospital.  It was agreed to take Item No. 43 at this time also.

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

AND AGREED

“That the Standing Orders of the Council be suspended to allow the Council to consider the following emergency motion;-

‘Noting the statement made to the “Sligo Champion” by Senator Geraldine Feeney, in which she states that the breast cancer unit in Sligo General Hospital “is closing and that those who make the decisions have not and will not be changing their minds” this Council, composed of the elected representatives of the people of County Sligo, rejects in the strongest possible terms the Government’s proposal to close the cancer care unit and resolves to call on the Government and the HSE, to retain and further develop the cancer surgical and diagnostic service at Sligo General Hospital, and further, recognising the absence of a Centre of Excellence North of a line from Dublin to Galway, this Council calls on the new Taoiseach and the Government to seriously consider providing an additional Centre of Excellence in Sligo”.

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council suspend standing orders to allow a discussion on the down grading of cancer services in Sligo General Hospital”.

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

AND AGREED

That this Council calls on the Government and the HSE to retain and further develop the cancer surgical and diagnostic services at Sligo General Hospital, and further, recognising the absence of a Centre of Excellence North of a line from Dublin to Galway, this Council calls on the new Taoiseach and the Government to seriously consider providing an additional Centre of Excellence in Sligo.”

A general discussion took place in relation to Cancer Care Services in Sligo General Hospital.

It was then;

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council request a deputation to meet the Minister for Health and the Taoiseach, Mr Brian Cowen regarding the down grading of the cancer treatment in Sligo General Hospital”.

13. STUDY ON GROUND WATER IN THE COUNTY:

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

“To ask the Environment Section to confirm that they are carrying out a study on ground water in the County.  If so what are the implications of this study”.

In Response Mr R. McNulty, DOS stated the following;

In January 2008 work commenced on the preparation of a Groundwater Protection Scheme (GWPS) for County Sligo.  This project was commissioned by Sligo County Council as a requirement under the Western River Basin project and is being carried out by the Geological Survey of Ireland.  The scheme will assist Sligo County Council in meeting its statutory responsibility for the protection and conservation of groundwater resources.  It will provide a technical framework to assist in the decision making on the location and nature of developments and activities with the view to ensuring the protection of groundwater.  It will not be prescriptive; decisions may need to be qualified by site specific considerations. 

14. FARM INSPECTIONS REGARDING THE NITRATE DIRECTIVE 2008:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley

“To ask the County Manager will Council officials be carrying out farm inspections regarding the Nitrate Directive 2008”.

Mr P. Hampson, SEE stated the following;

The EC (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006 give legal effect to Irelands National Action Programme under the EU Nitrates Directive.  Sligo County Council carry out routine farm inspections on a catchment management approach, and on foot of complaints received.  We follow up on non-compliances of the nitrates regulations found during these inspections.  Advice or warning letters issued and planning conditions attached to agricultural developments require compliance with the EC (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006.

15. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HOMELESS FORUM:

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

“That this meeting set a date for the first meeting for the re establishment of the homeless forum and that all agencies that had been involved in the last forum be requested to nominate a representative to attend.  Further that this council also select members onto the forum”.

In Response Ms D. Clarke DOS stated the following;

The Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government, under the aegis of the Cross Department Team on Homelessness, has drafted a revised Government Strategy on Adult Homelessness which, I am advised, was received positively by the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion on 13 February 2008.  It is proposed that this Strategy will be published by the end of May 2008.

Sligo County Council has been awaiting the publication of the above mentioned Strategy before proceeding with the re-formation of the Homeless Forum as it is expected that it will include guidance on the composition of these committees.  However, in order to progress the matter of re-establishing the Homeless Forum, I contacted the Department and was advised that the draft Strategy proposes that, as a minimum, the Forum should comprise the following:

  • An official from the Local Authority;
  • A representative from a homeless service in the County;
  • An official from the Health Service Executive (with authority to take decisions with resource implications);
  • A representative from the Prison Service (particularly in cases where there are prison facilities sited within the local authority’s functional area);
  • A representative from the Probation Service;
  • A representative from the local Vocational Educational Committee;
  • A representative from FÁS;
  • Representatives from approved Housing Bodies in the area;
  • A representative from Family Resource Centres and/or Citizens Information Board within the local authority’s functional area;
  • A representative from the appropriate Local or Regional Drug Task Force.

It is proposed that the Council would make contact with each local organisation included on the above list with a view to holding a meeting of the re-established Homeless Forum before the end of June 2008.

 16. HONOUR THE PRE-ELECTION PROMISES MADE BY FIANNA FAIL/PD/GREEN COALITION TO HONOUR THE PRE-ELECTION PROMISES MADE BY FIANNA FAIL:

 Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor I. Henry

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Fianna Fail/PD/Green coalition to honour the pre-election promises made by Fianna Fail in relation to cutting primary school class size”.

17. LETTER ISSUED BY VEOLIA WATER TO CONSUMERS RECENTLY RELATING TO INTEREST CHARGES AND PENALTY PAYMENTS:

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

“To seek clarification of a letter issued by Veolia water to consumers recently relating to interest charges and penalty payments”.

In Response Mr T. Kilfeather DOS stated the following;

Sligo County Council entered into a Design/Build/Operate contract with Veolia Water Ltd to fit water meters to non-domestic premises and for a 10 year period  to collect water charges. The Design/Build Phase of the contract is complete and we are now in the Operation Phase.

As part of the tariff document provision was made within the billing/charging structure for the application of interest charges and penalty payments where accounts are not settled within the terms of the contract.

A letter was recently issued to all customers whose accounts are in arrears highlighting that such charges could be imposed at some point. The Council requested Veolia Ltd not to apply any such charges at this time. 

It is hoped that that sufficient progress can be made over the next number of months in dealing with collection of arrears to avoid consideration of applying such charges.

Cllr D. Bree asked that the Report in relation to this Item be circulated to the members.

18. SPEED LIMIT SIGNS BE ERECTED AND THE FOOTPATH EXTENDED TO THE ST JOHNS GAA PARK:

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.


19. ROADWORKS SCHEME IN STRANDHILL:

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

20. PROVIDE A FOOTPATH AT KILMACOWEN:

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

21. FUNDING IN RELATION TO THE CALRY ROAD: 

Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure if;

  1. Any funding was applied for in 2008 for the completion of Calry Road.
  2. If there was a favourable response from the Department of the Environment in relation to the funding.
  3. When will work commence on the completion of the Calry Road

In Response Mr. T. Carroll SE stated the following;

There is no provision in Road Works Scheme 2008 for major improvements to Regional Road R278 serving Calry Church and Hall.  However any improvements required to Regional Route R278 can be considered in the context of the 2009 Road Woks Scheme when being drafted at Local Area Meeting.

A Grant of €316,000 has been obtained from Department of Transport towards the continued upgrade of the priority Regional Road R286, serving Hazelwood/Calry Community Pitch and 3rd Level Institute Clogherevagh College at Lough Gill Sligo in 2008 under Specific Improvement Grant.

Roads Department had sought a grant of €385,000 in their submission.  It is hoped to commence construction of accommodation works along this section of route R286 as soon as possible weather permitting.


22. UP TO DATE REPORT ON THE PUBLIC WATER SCHEME IN CALRY:

Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

“To ask Sligo County Council for an up to date report on the public water scheme in Calry which supplies Ballynamona and Loughanelteen”

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

Biological monitoring is ongoing on this small public water supply

The test results for a number of weeks now indicate a very low level of bacteriological contamination in the Calry Water Supply.  Dr Anthony Breslin, Specialist in Public Health Medicine with HSE has confirmed that to date there have been no reported cases of illness arising from the contamination.  While results from these recent samplings are very encouraging, it has been decided that “boil notice” should remain in place until the replacement water supply from Kilsellagh via Glackbaun GWSS is in place.  It is anticipated that this alternative supply will be in place by July.

23. RELIEVE THE PROBLEM OF FLOODING AT CALRY VILLAGE BESIDE THE CHURCH AND HALL; 

Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure to relieve the problem of road flooding at Calry village beside the church and hall”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

Road maintenance team, Sligo-Drumcliffe Area have cleared gullies on Regional Road R278 adjacent to Calry Church and Hall. Incidence of ponding has been relieved.

24. SAFEGUARD COUNCILLORS PROPOSALS AGREED WITH STAFF:

This Item was withdrawn with the agreement of the meeting.


25. REPLACE SAFETY RAILING ON THE FOOTPATH UNDER THE RAILWAY BRIDGE ON KNOCKBEG ROAD, COLLOONEY:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure to replace the safety railing on the footpath under the railway bridge on Knockbeg Road, Collooney in the interest of public safety”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

A Sum of €30,000 has been provided in the Road Works Programme 2008 for replacement of foot path at Knockbeg on old N17.  The replacement of the railing will be examined during the course of these works.

26. IRISH ILLEGAL EMIGRANTS IN THE USA:

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

AND AGREED

“The serious problems affecting Irish illegal Emigrants in the USA has been well documented, I propose that Sligo County Council request the Minister for Foreign Affairs and An Taoiseach to negotiate their legalisation as a matter of urgency”.

27. COUNCIL PASS A VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN THE HSE: 

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council pass a vote of no confidence in the HSE, with regard to its policies and proposals and calls for its powers and functions to be taken back by Government”.

28. NEW PRIMARY CARE CENTRE IN DROMORE WEST: 

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

“To ask the County Manager to enter into discussions with the H.S.E with regard to the provision of a new Primary Care Centre in Dromore West”.

In Response Ms D. Clarke, DOS stated the following;

The provision of a new Primary Care Centre in Dromore West is the responsibility of the H.S.E.  A member of the H.S.E will be invited into the next Dromore West Area Meeting to discuss this matter.

29. COUNCIL LIAISE WITH COILLTE TO ENSURE VIEW IS RESTORED ON THE NORTH EDGE OF LADIES BRAE ROAD:

Proposed by Councillor M Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

“That this Council liaise with Coillte to ensure view is restored on the North Edge of the Ladies Brae Road, and the area cleaned up where trees have been cut down”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

A resolution of Council could be proposed requesting Coillte to reinstate area where recent tree felling has taken place.

31. EXTEND PUBLIC WATER MAINS FROM KEELOGYBOY JUNCTION TO THE LAST HOUSE AT COUNTY BOUNDARY: 

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to extend public water mains from Keelogyboy junction to the last house at the County Boundary”.

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

There is an existing 2” C.I. main approximately 1,400 metres in length from the Keelogyboy junction as far as Hargadon’s pub serving approximately 27 farms/houses .

The estimated cost to relay this pipe in 100mm HPPE is approximately €119,000 including house connections and road restoration i.e. 1400 metres at €85 per metre.
Hargadon’s pub to the county boundary. This is a distance of 460 metres.
The estimated cost of laying a new main here is 460 at €85 per metre = €39,100.

Therefore the total estimated cost of undertaking this work is €158,100

There is no funding either in O&M budget or in capital budget to carry out this work at present.

32. IMPROVE THE ROAD ENTERING BOTH SIDES OF CALRY VILLAGE: 

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure what plans are in place to improve the road entering from both sides of Calry village eg public lighting, road signage, speed limits and ramps in the interest of public safety”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

There is no provision in Road Works Scheme 2008 to provide Traffic Calming Scheme at Calry in 2008.  This can be considered in context of 2009 Road Works Scheme when being drafted at Local Area Meeting.

33.  HEALTH MEDICAL FACILITY AT BALLYBRENNAN, BALLYMOTE:

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

34. COUNCIL REQUEST A REPRESENTATIVE FROM EIRCOM TO ADDRESS A COUNCIL MEETING REGARDING REMOVAL OF DANGEROUS POLES; 

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council request a representative from Eircom to address a Council meeting regarding removal of dangerous poles and what proposals they have to provide broadband in the county”

35. PROTECT THE WELFARE OF GENERAL MEDICAL SERVCIES CARD HOLDERS: 

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

AND AGREED

“I propose that this Council requests the Minister for Health and present Government to protect the welfare of General Medical Services card holders in the present dispute between the H.S.E and pharmacy owners over drug prices and prescription charges”.

36. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING BE LOCATED IN COOLANEY VILLAGE:


39. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IN COOLANEY VILLAGE: 

It was agreed that items 36 and 39 be taken at this time;

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

“To propose that facilities for a pedestrian crossing be located in Coolaney village in accordance with the requests of Community Development Association”.

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

“To ask that Sligo County Council provide a pedestrian crossing in Coolaney village as requested by Coolaney Development Company.”

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

There is no provision in the Road Works Scheme 2008 for construction of pedestrian crossing in Coolaney Village.

This can be considered in context of 2009 Road Works Scheme when being drafted at Local Area Meeting.


37. COURT SERVICES IN BALLYMOTE:

This Item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

38. SAFETY MEASURES IN PLACE AT THE HOLY FAMILY NATIONAL SCHOOL, TUBBERCURRY ON THE R294:

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

“To request Sligo County Council to put safety measures in place at the Holy Family National School, Tubbercurry on the R294 in the interest of safety for the children, parents and teachers”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

The Holy family National School, Tubbercurry is located on Regional Road R294 and is within a special speed limit zone of 50 K.P.H.  Amber flashing lights have also been installed on approaches to school by the Roads Department, Sligo County Council.  The enforcement of Speed Limits is a matter for An Garda Síochána.  A review of signage and road lining will be carried out in the short term. 

40. URGENT ROAD REPAIR WORKS IN THE VILLAGE OF CLOONACOOL: 

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

“That Sligo County Council carry out urgent road repair works in the village of Cloonacool in the interest of road safety.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

Essential road repairs can be undertaken in Cloonacool area after inspection by Local Area Engineer.

41. PURCHASING A PORTION OF LAND FROM COUNTY SLIGO V.E.C.:

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

“To Ask the Director of Services for Housing to consider purchasing a portion of land from County Sligo V.E.C. at Easkey to ensure the safety of the local authority residents at Woodlands Crescent  Estate in Easkey”.

In Response Ms D. Clarke, DOS stated the following;

In 2006 a right of way was granted through the local authority estate road at Woodland Crescent, Easkey to a landowner whose lands were landlocked from the public road. In exchange, the landowner gave a portion of his lands to Sligo County Council for the purposes of the Grave yard extension at Easkey. As part of the agreement the landowner is permitted to use the green area at Woodland Crescent as a route for construction traffic in the event of development of the lands and return the green area back to its original condition once construction is complete. There currently is planning permission for approximately 50 houses on the subject lands.

The residents of Woodland Crescent have expressed concerns regarding their safety and loss of recreational area during the construction phase of these lands and have requested that an alternative route be sought for construction traffic. The V.E.C. own a large portion of land adjacent to the green area in question and these lands extend from the public road to the development lands. Sligo County Council could explore the possibility of acquiring a temporary way leave from the V.E.C. for the purposes of facilitating a route for the construction traffic as an alternative to the green area at Woodland Crescent. 

42. TRAFFIC CALMING IN RATHLEE VILLAGE:

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

“To Ask the Director of Services to consider Traffic Calming measures in Rathlee Village on R297.

A special speed limit of 60 Kph exists through village of Rathlee on Regional road R297.

Amber flashing lights have also been erected on approaches to National School by Road Department, Sligo County Council.  Speed Bars have also been installed on road surface on approaches to village under a Low Cost Accident Reduction Scheme.

The enforcement of speed limit is a matter for An Garda Siochana.

44. IMPROVE FOOTPATH FROM GALLAGHER HOUSE, TUBBERCURRY TO BALLINA ROAD JUNCTION:

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

“To request the Council in the interest of safety to improve footpath from Gallagher House, Tubbercurry to Ballina Road Junction”

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

A provision of €49,000 has been included in Road Works Scheme 2008 for the replacement of footpaths in Tubbercurry.  Work has commenced on replacement of footpaths from Gallagher House to “The Lane” on Main Street.

47. UPDATE ON DISCUSSIONS WITH THE DEVELOPER OF ABHAINN MOR ESTATE IN COLLOONEY:

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

“To ask this Council for a update on discussions with the developer of Abhainn Mor Estate in Collooney regarding outstanding planning matters to the satisfaction of the residents”.

In Response Mr J. Murphy SEO stated the following;

The residents have raised a number of issues with the Council in relation to this development of 133 houses. The Council, following an inspection of the estate, met with the developer and his Architect/Consulting Engineer on 12th May 2008, and outlined the matters that needed to be addressed to satisfy both the residents and the Councils concerns. The developer undertook to address these issues over a period of time. For the record, development is ongoing at this location with a number of houses still to be built  The estate will be monitored on a regular basis to ensure that all issues are addressed to the satisfaction of the Council.

48. REFURBISHMENT WORKS WILL COMMENCE ON THE OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL AT DEADMANS POINT:

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

“To ask the County Manager to indicate when it is expected that the refurbishment works will commence on the outdoor swimming pool at Deadman’s Point, Rosses Point and to ask if the works will be financed from the proceeds of Development contributions or from other sources.”

In Response Ms R. McNulty DOS stated the following;

Funding for immediate remedial works on the outdoor swimming pool at Deadman’s Point, Rosses Point has been identified.  Proposed works will attend to current difficulties regarding access and will allow continued use of the facility.  Works are proposed to proceed upon appointment of maritime contract specialists and are likely to have concluded by end June 2008, in advance of primary Summer holiday tourism season.  Further investigatory works will be undertaken and presented for consideration at a later stage. 

49. RENTING OF SPACE IN PREMISES IN HIGH STREET/OLD MARKET STEET:

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

“That the Council be provided with a report on the agreement entered into by the Council with regard to the renting of space in a premises in High Street/Old Market Street including details as to when the Council entered into the rental agreement, the terms of the lease, the size of the area which the Council has decided to rent, the annual rent of the offices, the cost  per square foot, the purpose of renting the premises, whether other property owners/agents were requested to submit details/costing for similar size office space which they might have available for rent and what method was used by the Council to ascertain value for money.” 

In Response Mr T. Kilfeather DOS stated the following;

The Directorate had a requirement to secure circa 3,500 sq ft of office space to accommodate staff in the roads division. The unit would comprise of staff serving Sligo Borough/Sligo Strandhill Engineering District and other County support administration and technical staff. The criteria for the accommodation were;

  • central for ease of customer access
  • proximity to adjacent technical/administration staff in the Market Yard
  • complying with health and safety and office accommodation specifications
  • value for money

Properties were viewed in all in 6 No. locations as a result of market availability through contact with 3 local estate agents and comparison with offers otherwise available to the Council though Corporate Directorate procurement.

The only unit available in the market that met with all requirements identified above was that in Highmarket House High St .The rent secured was more competitive than any other location viewed offered and available at under €16.00 per sq ft as against others from €17.00 to €25.00 per sq ft. The annual rent for the selected unit over a 10 year period with a 5 year review clause is €53,392 for the unfurnished space. The agreement is effective from February 1st 2008

Cllr D. Bree requested that he be provided with a copy of this report.


50. EXTENDING PUBLIC SEWER ON L5401-0L

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure to investigate the possibility of extending the public sewer on L5401-0 as far as speed limit sign from the South Side entering Riverstown”.

In Response Mr K. Larkin SE stated the following;

This proposal entails a very extensive and potentially expensive extension of the existing sewerage network to connect the barracks, a church& rectory and a number of private houses to the public sewerage network.

Most of the mains to service this proposal would have to be laid in private properties and the proposal will entail the construction of at least one and possibly 2 pump stations and associated pumping mains.

The length of gravity main, excluding private connections will be in the order of  500 metres.

As such a detailed survey and costing of the proposal will be required. This has been set in train and it is anticipated that a definitive report, costing and recommendation can be presented to this Chamber at the June Meeting

51. WEIGHT RESTRICTION ON ROAD NO. L13031-0:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure to impose a weight restriction on road No. L13031-0 to avoid its further deteriorations”.

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following,

The road in question will be examined by the Local Area Engineer and an assessment of its current condition will be made.

52. REPLACE FOOTPATHS ON THE TUBBERCURRY ROAD OUT OF GURTEEN:

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

“To request the Council in the interest of safety to replace footpaths on the Tubbercurry road out of Gurteen from O’Grady’s Filling Station to the Rathmadder Housing Estate”

In Response Mr T. Carroll SE stated the following;

A provision of €30,000 has been included in Road Works Scheme 2008 for the replacement of footpaths in Gurteen.  The replacement of section of footpath along Regional Road R294 from O’Grady’s – Rathmadder Housing Estate is proposed to be included in these works.

53.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Francis Coleman on the death of his wife, Betty”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Damien McCarrick on the death of his mother, Breda”.

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gerry Coleman on the death of his sister, Deirdre Holahan”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Charlie Keaveney  on the death of his father, Charlie Senior”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to David Johnston on the death of his wife, Madge”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Bradley on the death of her mother, Lily Farry”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael Dodd on the death of his son, Vincent Dodd”.

Proposed by Councillor I. Fox
Seconded by Councillor P. Conmy

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tom Branley and family on the death of his brother, Pat Branley”.

54. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ciss Connolly on the occasion of her 100th birthday”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Lisa Mullaney on winning Miss Sligo and going on to represent this County in the Miss Ireland Competition”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Jimmy Devins on his new appointment as Junior Minister”.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mary McCarthy, Chairperson of Skreen/Dromard Community Care on the occasion of its 30th anniversary, Skreen/Dromard voluntary community care committee  who have provided and are still providing an excellent service and care for the senior citizens of Skreen/Dromard area, and who have been very vocal in the provision of a primary care health centre in Skreen”. 

55. CORRESPONDENCE:


56. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
 

57. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

At the request of the Cathaoirleach Cllr S. Kilgannon the meeting agreed that the Grant Awards under the Community and Voluntary Grant Scheme 2008 be included on the Agenda for June Ordinary Meeting.  


58.  ADDITIONAL ITEMS CIRCULATED AT MEETING: 

  • The Forthcoming Conference List
  • Letter received from the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr D. Ahern regarding WTO negotiations.
  • Letter received from Limerick County Council regarding resolution passed.
  • Letter received from Leitrim County Council regarding resolution passed.


END OF MEETING:

The Meeting ended at 4.50 pm

 

 


Meeting Date 19/05/2008