Minutes 2009
Minutes of July Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 6th July, 2009 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 Healy McGowan,
- Councillor Henry,
- Councillor Higgins,
- Councillor Kilgannon,
- Councillor Leonard,
- Councillor Lundy,
- Councillor MacManus,
- Councillor McGarry,
- Councillor McGrath,
- Councillor McLoughlin,
- Councillor Murray,
- Councillor Queenan,
- Councillor Sherlock
MEMBERS PRESENT:
- Councillor Baker,
- Councillor Barrett,
- Councillor Barry,
- Councillor Bree,
- Councillor Cawley,
- Councillor Clarke,
- Councillor Collery,
- Councillor Devins,
- Councillor Fleming,
- Councillor Gormley,
- Councillor Healy McGowan,
- Councillor Keaney,
- Councillor Leonard,
- Councillor Lundy,
- Councillor Lyons,
- Councillor MacManus,
- Councillor McGarry,
- Councillor McGrath,
- Councillor McLoughlin,
- Councillor Mullaney,
- Councillor Mulvey,
- Councillor Murray,
- Councillor O’Grady,
- Councillor Queenan.
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr T. Kilfeather, Deputy County Manager
- Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
- Ms P. R. Gallagher, Acting Director of Services
- Ms R. McNulty, Director of Services
- Ms M. Leydon, Head of Finance
- Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer
- Mr F. O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer
- Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
- Ms D. Finnerty, Senior Executive officer
- Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr J. Moran, Senior Executive Officer
- Ms. M. Davidescu, Acting Senior Executive Planner
- Mr S. Ward, Executive Planner
- Ms M. O’Hara, Executive Planner
- Mr D. Tinney, County Librarian
- Ms S. Ryan, Heritage Officer
- Ms D. McDonagh, Acting Administrative Officer
- Ms G. Timlin, Project Officer
- Ms M. McGovern, Clerical Officer
- Mr F. MacNabb, Meetings Administrator
CATHAOIRLEACH:
- The Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray presided.
1. MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON THE 19TH JUNE, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 19th June, 2009”.
Mr. F. MacNabb, Meetings Administrator clarified points raised by councillors regarding election of members to certain committees.
- In relation to the Strandhill Community Maritime Company Ltd, a non-member of the council could not be appointed to this company.
- Sligo County Council do not have a right to nominate a member to the Board of The Hawk’s Well Theatre.
- In relation to the board of the North West Airport Company ltd, the council acted legitimately in appointing former councillor Mr. Albert Higgins to this Board.
Item Number 19 was taken at this point.
19. APPOINT ONE (1) MEMBER TO THE STRANDHILL COMMUNITY MARITIME COMPANY LTD:
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To appoint Councillor D. Bree to the Strandhill Maritime Company Ltd”.
1. MINUTES OF THE MAY ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON THE 11TH MAY, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the May Ordinary Meeting held on the 11th May, 2009”.
2. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON 4TH MARCH, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West Area Meeting held on 4th March 2009”.
3. MINUTES OF THE STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE 4 (HOUSING POLICY AND SOCIAL AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT) HELD ON THE 23RD FEBRUARY, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Strategic Policy Committee 4 (Housing Policy/Social and Cultural Development) held on Thursday 23rd February, 2009”.
4. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON THE 8TH FEBRUARY, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West Area Meeting held on 8th February 2009”.
5. MINUTES OF THE SLIGO/DRUMCLIFFE AREA MEETING HELD ON THE 26TH JANUARY, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of Sligo/Drumcliffe Area Meeting held on Monday 26th January, 2009”.
6. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001 (AS AMENDED), THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW PUMPING STATION AND ASSOCIATED WORKS IN THE TOWNLAND OF CASTLETOWN, EASKEY, CO. SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 as amended the proposed construction of a new Pumping Station and associated site works in the townland of Castletown, Easkey, Co. Sligo”.
7. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001 (AS AMENDED), THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A DEPOT AT MULLANABREENA,TOBERCURRY, CO. SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by M. Councillor Fleming
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Part 8 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations 2001 as amended, the proposed construction of a Depot at Mullanabreena, Tobercurry, Co Sligo”.
8. TAKING IN CHARGE - RIVERWALK ESTATE, COLLOONEY, CO. SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge the estate known as “Riverwalk Estate” in Collooney, Co. Sligo, by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the estate”.
9. TAKING IN CHARGE - WOODVILLE COURT, STRANDHILL, CO. SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge the estate known as “Woodville Court, Strandhill Road, Co. Sligo, by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the estate”.
10. FIX DATE FOR MEETING TO CONSIDER THE DRAFT SLIGO AND ENVIRONS DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2010-2016:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To fix a date for the Members to consider the Draft Sligo and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 and the Second Manager’s Report on submissions and observations received, relating to the Draft Development Plan 2010-2016”.
It was agreed to fix the meeting for the 20th July, 2009.
11. PROPOSED AMENDMENT OF THE STRANDHILL LOCAL PLAN 2003-2009 - PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACTS 2000-2007:
The Manager’s report relating to submissions/ observations on the Proposed Amendment of the Strandhill Local Plan 2003 - 2009 was circulated to the members for their consideration.
Members were advised by Ms. M. Davidescu, Acting Senior Executive Planner that if amendment to plan was not adopted the life of the plan would cease to exist the following day (7th July, 2009). Councillor Cawley questioned whether this is a weakness in the system. Ms. Davidescu advised members that this limitation is to be amended in the new Planning Amendment bill whereby it will be proposed that Local Area Plans can have a life of up to 10 years.
Councillor Bree stated that he did not recollect receiving the screening report Ms. Davidescu referred to. Mr. Kilfeather, Deputy County Manager advised members that they would clarify whether report had being circulated.
Following further discussion it was
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council be provided with a comprehensive report on developments in relation to the provision of sports and recreational facilities for the Strandhill community in line with the objectives of the Strandhill Local Area Plan”.
The meeting agreed to defer any decision on this item until later in the meeting.
Following discussion it was
12. ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2008:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley
AND AGREED
“To note the Annual Financial Statement of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31st December 2008”.
Following discussion it was
13. AUTHORISE OVER EXPENDITURE OF €4,441,232 IN RESPECT OF FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2008:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley
AND AGREED
“To authorise over expenditure of €4,441,232 in respect of the financial year ended 31st December 2008 in accordance with section 104(7) of the Local Government Act 2001”.
14. LETTER DATED 24TH JUNE, 2009 FROM THE DOEHLG AND THE REPORT FROM THE COUNTY MANAGER AND HEAD OF FINANCE:
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
AND AGREED
“To note letter dated 24th June, 2009 from the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Govt, and report of County Manager and Head of Finance”.
Following discussion it was
Proposed by Councillor T. Mcloughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That the Minister reconsider his proposal to reduce the annual allocation by a further €1/2m, in view of the serious effect it will have on the services provided”.
Following a discussion in relation to development levies it was
Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“That this council discuss the development charge at the September meeting and members get a report on same”.
After further discussion, the meeting requested that charges would not be levied on rural dwellings which are not connected to water or sewerage services provided by Sligo County Council until further debate would take place on this matter.
Following on from earlier discussion it was:
12. PROPOSED AMENDMENT OF THE STRANDHILL LOCAL PLAN 2003-2009 – PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACTS 2000-2007:
Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
AND AGREED
“Having considered the proposed amendment of the Strandhill Local Area Plan and the Manager’s Report dated the 19th June, 2009, the members agreed to adopt Amendment to extend the period of the Plan from 7th July, 2009 to 6th July, 2012. It is hereby resolved in accordance with the Planning and development Acts, 2000 to 2007 that the Strandhill Local Area Plan be extended for a period of three years from 7th July, 2009 to 6th July, 2012”.
It was agreed to take item 18 before adjourning for lunch.
Mr. MacNabb informed the meeting that the members of the Sligo County Joint Policing Committee (JPC) were recently elected in December. It was agreed that of the 13 members elected 5 were to be replaced with Cathaoirleach G. Murray taking over as Chair of Sligo County JPC.
18. TO APPOINT (13) MEMBERS AND THE CATHAOIRLEACH TO THE SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Lyons
AND AGREED
“To appoint Councillors D. Mulvey, M. Fleming and I. Henry to the Sligo County JPC”.
Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To appoint Councillors J. Devins and M. Baker to the Sligo County JPC”.
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“Propose Councillor H. Keaney be a member of the Joint Policing Board in place of Councillor J. Leonard”.
15. APPROVE GRANT RECIPIENTS AND PRIZE WINNERS OF THE 2009 SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL LOCAL TIDY TOWNS COMPETITIONS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“To approve Grant Recipients and Prize Winners of the 2009 Sligo Council Local Tidy Towns Competition”.
16. APPROVE LOCAL AUTHORITY CONSERVATION GRANT SCHEME 2009:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“To approve the Local Authority Conservation Grant Scheme 2009”.
20. COUNCIL’S PLANS, IF ANY, TO REPLACE LISSADELL AS TOURIST ATTRACTION:
Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor M. Lyons
“To ask the County Manager what are the Council’s plans for a Tourist Attraction to replace Lissadell as a central attraction of Sligo, and what, if any Tourist attractions, can or are being brought on stream for this season, to replace Lissadell, as it remains closed”
In response Mr F. O’Driscoll, A/Director of Services stated the following:
Sligo County Council is continually working with all stakeholders to put in place tourist/cultural attractions to maximise the potential of Sligo and the region. This is in line with the objectives of the County Development Plan.
The responsibility for tourism promotion and the development of attractions lies primarily with Fáilte Ireland North West and the private sector with a key support and development role for the Local Authorities and local development organisations.
Sligo County Council is actively involved in tourism development and promotion as a member of the County Development Board.
It was agreed that Items 21 and 40 be taken together.
21. CALL ON THE HSE TO CLARIFY ITS POSITION IN RELATION TO SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:
Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“That Sligo County Council calls on the HSE to clarify its position in relation to Sligo General Hospital and to confirm or deny that they intend to down-grade it from an acute hospital into a medical one. Also, that the HSE explain the future of the Orthopaedic Unit, the closure of the Stroke Unit and the removal of the Cancer Care Services”.
40. REQUEST CLARIFICATION FROM MANAGEMENT OF SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL ON WARD CLOSURES CARRIED OUT OR PLANNED FOR 2009:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To request clarification from the Management of Sligo General Hospital on ward closures carried out or planned for 2009, as a result of cutbacks proposed by the HSE and Minister for Health and the resultant curtailment of services to patients requiring cancer care, orthopaedic or stroke treatment”
Following further discussion it was
Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council requests an urgent meeting with the Minister of Health and Senior Officials of her department and of the HSE to impress on them the urgent necessity to provide adequate finance to Sligo General Hospital so that services can be maintained”.
22. EXPLORE HOW THE PUBLIC LIBRARY CAN BE USED AS A LOCAL RESOURCE CENTRE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE UNEMPLOYED AND ARE LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON LOCAL JOBS, TRAINING AND CV OR JOB-SEEKING ADVICE:
Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
“That Sligo County Council explore how our public library can be used as a local resource centre for people who are unemployed and are looking for information on local jobs, training and CV or job-seeking advice”.
Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services outlined the services currently being provided by Sligo County Library Services.
In response to Cllr. Jim McGarry’s motion, I wish to outline the current situation along with our future plans, which may assist the County Council’s deliberations on this matter.
Sligo County Library service with the support of Sligo Local Authorities strives to deliver a diverse, modern and comprehensive public library service within available resources, to all our customers.
Currently, Sligo County Library service provides four particular strands of service which are aimed primarily, although not exclusively, towards the unemployed, namely:-
1. Information provision.
The Library service makes available national and local newspapers, public notice boards and online access to vacancies and training opportunities.
2. Job seeking skills.
We provide books along with online information and templates on how to prepare a curriculum vitae and how to maximise performance at interviews.
3. Opportunities in lifelong learning.
Sligo County Library service provides support to library users in their pursuit of self development, particularly in the area of lifelong learning. In recent years, Sligo County Library has formed successful partnerships with third level educational institutions such as the Open University and NUI Galway in the delivery of support and access to third level courses.
This year, Sligo Library has formed a partnership with FÁS in the provision of access to the FÁS e-learning courses through the public library network. This service will utilise the public library’s internet facilities in the branch library network, be it hardwire or Wi-Fi to support FÁS trainees in their courses.
Sligo Library service as part of our remit to improve computer literacy has provided internet training to the general public for over five years. This will continue in Sligo Central Library in 2009 with the provision of internet training in the summer to the unemployed on a first come basis.
While these strands of service provision are not exclusively of use to the unemployed we would suggest that in the current economic downturn that these services will become even more popular and in fact essential. Already since the beginning of the year we have observed an increase in the number of visitors and book issues in Sligo Central Library.
Sligo County Library service would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with other bodies and institutions with a view to augmenting the services we already provide to the unemployed or indeed identifying further roles we may support or undertake, in particular, if funding opportunities exist.
23. ASK SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL TO URGENTLY PRIORITISE ROADS FOR REPAIR AND RESURFACING IN THE BALLYMOTE ELECTORAL AREA FOR THE NEXT 3 YEARS:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To ask Sligo County Council to urgently prioritise roads for repair and resurfacing in the Ballymote Electoral Area for the next 3 years”.
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The present three year Road Restoration Program approved by both the members and the Department of Transport covers the years 2008 to 2010 inclusive.
It is proposed to allow that program to be completed before considering a new one.
We will continue, however, to do the best we can to carry out road surface repairs in the Ballymote Electoral Area and indeed all electoral areas up to a reasonable standard within the context of the very difficult financial situation that exists at present.
Both the existing three year program and any future one are totally dependent on funding from the Government.
24. CALL ON SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL TO WORK IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE PEOPLE OF COLLOONEY IN PROVIDING PLAYGROUND FACILITIES:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To call on Sligo County Council to work in partnership with the people of Collooney in providing playground facilities”.
In response Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated the following:
Sligo County Council is in contact with members of the Collooney Playground Committee with a view to supporting the development of play facilities and was involved in a consultation with local children in relation to play and recreation issues in 2008. However, there is currently no funding available from the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government or the Local Authority for the provision of playground facilities.
25. PROVIDE AN EARLY MORNING COMMUTER SERVICE FROM CARRICK-ON-SHANNON TO SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“Ask Sligo County Council to call on Iarnrod Eireann to provide an early morning commuter service from Carrick-on-Shannon to Sligo”.
26. PROVIDE DETAILS OF ALL IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES IN RESPECT OF THE N59:
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
“We ask the Director of Services to provide details of all improvement schemes in respect of the N59, currently with the NRA and to clarify which aspects of the overall improvement programme have been funded in the current year. Given the critical state of the N59, and the urgency of its upgrading to an acceptable standard, this Council calls on the NRA to provide immediate funding for the completion of the N59 improvement programme”.
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The following is run down of all works proposed on the N59:
N59 Minor Realignments
This is a proposed realignment of approximately 3km long between Farranyharpy (Corragh dTonn) and Ballygreighan.
A Part 8 process is in progress and will be brought to the Council Chamber at the September meeting. Funding from the NRA for this scheme was forthcoming in 2007 and 2008 but was withdrawn for 2009.
The total cost of the scheme is approximately €4M. All relevant documentation for the project is with the NRA including Constraints Study, Route Selection Report, Project programme and estimate, Screening report and Total Project Cost. We will be applying for a grant to commence Land Purchase in 2010.
Pavement and Minor Improvement Works 2009
No overlay schemes for the N59 were approved by the NRA for 2009.
Money was provided however for the repair of isolated failed sections along the route. A number of these were identified by the Road Design team and approval has been received to proceed to tender with these schemes. An allocation of €200,000 was received under this scheme. A further €68,244 was allocated under the NS Annual Resurfacing heading.
It was felt, because of the small grants which are insufficient to cover all the schemes approved by the NRA , that it would be economical to combine these two grants and proceed with the following works:
Stella Maris, Ballysadare - Dig out and strengthen 1200sq.m - €92,000
Beltra-Plane out and strengthen 3405 sq.m €122,000
Fiddaun - Plane out and strengthen 150 sq.m - €22,000
Design and supervision costs will take up the remainder of the grants.
We will again be applying for a grant to carry out an overlay at Templeboy for 2010 but we would not hold out much hope for it in the current financial climate.
Following further discussion it was
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“That this council seek a deputation with the NRA to ensure adequate funding is provided by the NRA for the N59, as a matter of urgency”.
27. THAT THIS COUNCIL APPOINT INDEPENDENT LEGAL ADVICE FOR THE COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR THE FULL TERM OF THE COUNCIL 2009-2014 FOR COUNCIL RELATED MATTERS:
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
“That this council appoint independent legal advice for the Council Members for the full term of the council 2009-2014 for council related matters in consultation with the Council Members and that this be agreed within two months and all Members notified of contact details of the legal advice”.
In response Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:
Section 132(1) of the Local Government Act 2001 states that it is the duty of every manager to carry into effect all lawful directions of the elected council of a local authority or a joint body for which he or she is manager in relation to the exercise and performance of the reserved functions of the local authority or joint body.
(2) (a) Where in relation to the exercise or performance of a reserved function a legal opinion was obtained by a local authority or joint body, the elected council or joint body may, without prejudice to section 153, by resolution direct that a second such opinion be obtained by the authority
Section 153(1) states that the manager for a local authority—
(a) shall act for and on behalf of the local authority in every action or other legal proceeding whether civil or criminal, instituted by or against the local authority, and
(b) may do all such acts, matters, and things as he or she may consider necessary for the preparation and prosecution or defence of such action or other proceeding in the same manner in all respects as if (as the case may require) he or she were the plaintiff, prosecutor, defendant or other party to that action or other proceeding.
2) Where an action or other proceeding relates to the exercise or performance by the local authority of a reserved function, the manager for that authority shall, in the doing of any such act, matter, or thing referred to in subsection (1), act with the express authorisation of the elected council of such local authority, and in any proceedings such authorisation shall be deemed to have been given unless or until the contrary is shown.
This is the legislative framework for seeking legal advice. In relation to reserved functions if occasions arise where the members wish by resolution to seek a second legal opinion this will be facilitated.
28. IMPROVEMENT WORKS BE CARRIED OUT ON BRIDGE AT CLOONSILLA, GURTEEN (RD 501) IN THE INTEREST OF ROAD SAFETY:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
“That improvement works be carried out on bridge at Cloonsilla, Gurteen (Rd 501) in the interest of road safety”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
There are no funds to carry out a full repair on the collapsed portion of this culvert or bridge. Traffic can still pass by and further emergency works will take place soon. Our bridge design department will prepare a submission for possible funding in 2010.
Councillor Gormley enquired on the extent of the emergency works to be carried out.
Mr. O’Toole advised that pipes would be placed under the existing culvert as a temporary emergency repair.
29. TO CALL ON MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT , MR. DEMPSEY AND THE MINISTER FOR COMMUNITY, GAELTACHT AND RURAL AFFAIRS, MR. EAMONN O’CUIV TO PRIORITISE ADEQUATE FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO ENSURE CONTINUATION OF THE EVENING RURAL TRANSPORT SERVICE IN CO. SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That this council calls on the Minister for Transport, Mr. Dempsey and the Minister for Community, Gaeltacht and Rural Affairs, Mr. Eamonn O’Cuiv to prioritise adequate financial resources to ensure that the evening rural transport service for County Sligo continues after July 10th, 2009”.
30. EXTEND FOOTPATH ON THE R290 FROM PARKE’S GARAGE TO CARRICKNAGAT BRIDGE AND THE APPROPRIATE MEASURES TO RECTIFY DRAINAGE ON THE R290:
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
“That this Council extend footpath on the R290 from Parke’s Garage to Carricknagat Bridge in the interests of safety, and the appropriate measures to rectify drainage on R 290 (opposite Dick McGuinness’s)”.
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
There are no funds to improve the footpaths at this location. However, the drainage problem opposite McGuinness’s will be examined with a view to improving the situation there.
Councillor Barrett asked that the footpaths at this location be prioritised in the 2010 Roads Programme
31. CALLS ON HSE TO REVERSE DECISION TAKING MEDICAL CARD APPLICATIONS FROM THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WELFARE OFFICERS TO A CENTRAL LOCATION IN DUBLIN:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the HSE to reverse its decision to have applications for Medical Cards taken from the local community welfare officers to a central location in Dublin.”
It was agreed that Items 41 and 38 be taken together.
41. REQUEST THE DIRECTOR OF SERVICES TO PROVIDE UP TO DATE INFORMATION ON THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT FOR THE PROPOSED UPGRADING OF SEWERAGE PLANT AT TUBBERCURRY:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To request the Director of Services to provide up to date information on the sanction of loan facilities by the Minister for the Environment for the proposed upgrading of sewerage treatment plant at Tubbercurry”
38. ASK THE DIRECTOR OF SERVICES FOR A REPORT ON THE UPGRADE OF THE SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT IN TUBBERCURRY:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To ask the Director of Services for a report on the upgrade of the sewerage treatment plant in Tubbercurry”
In response Mr. D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated that:
The upgrade of Tubbercurry Wastewater Treatment Plant is included in a bundled DBO Contract including Strandhill, Grange, Ballinafad, Carney and Gurteen. The planning and procurement phases of the scheme have been completed and a preferred bidder has been selected.
Sligo Count Council are currently awaiting the granting of loan approval from the Department to meet the Councils contribution to the cost of the scheme. We are in regular contact with the Department on the matter of loan approval and this particular scheme has been highlighted as a priority for this Council.
42. THAT SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AND THE NRA CARRY OUT WORKS ON THE N17 AT THE JUNCTION WITH COUNTY ROAD 430 TO IMPROVE SIGHTLINES:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To propose that Sligo County Council and the NRA carry out works on National Primary Road N17 at the junction with county road 430 (Cashel Gates) in the townland of Carrowilkin to improve sightlines in the interest of road safety”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
A proposal for this work involving considerable realignment here was submitted to NRA some time ago.
However, no grant has been forthcoming, and because of the size of the scheme, no grant is likely to come in the short term.
45. REQUEST AN UPDATE ON THE PROPOSED PROGRAMME OF WORKS ON THE ROAD SERVING STRANDHILL NATIONAL SCHOOL:
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“To request an update on the proposed programme of works on the Road serving Strandhill National School”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
We have assisted the Board of Management by installing a trial traffic management arrangement at the school two weeks before the school holidays.
Consultation is ongoing with the Board of Management to identify a solution here.
There are however no funds available in the current year for Sligo County Council to get involved financially in what is really a problem for the Department of Education along with the Board of Management.
46. WHAT STEPS ARE BEING TAKEN TO REGULATE ILLEGAL PARKING OF MOBILE HOMES AND CARAVANS ALONG STRANDHILL PROMENADE:
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“To ask what steps are being taken to regulate illegal parking of mobile homes and caravans along Strandhill Promenade”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
Sligo County Council proposed byelaws to cover these and other matters but these were withdrawn at the time after the consultation process had taken place.
Subsequent welcome discussions with representatives of Community Groups in Strandhill brought some proposals as to possible options to address this issue.
One proposal to erect a barrier to prevent access by large camper vehicles to the promenade was looked at but in our view is not a feasible option.
One other suggestion made by these community groups is currently been investigated.
However any proposals that may be considered will have to be done in the context of little discretionary finance available and more importantly it must be recognised the likely difficulty if an option requiring enforcement is identified given very significant reduction in staff numbers over last 9 months.
47. CONSIDER THE PROVISION OF ROAD SIGNAGE AT DANGEROUS JUNCTIONS IN THE STRANDHILL, COOLERA AND KILMACOWN:
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“To ask the Director of Services to consider the provision of road signage at dangerous junctions in the Strandhill, Coolera and Kilmacown areas”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
Funding is very limited in the current year. However, if the Councillor wishes to identify particular locations these can be examined by the Area Engineer.
48. PROVIDE TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES AT CASHELGARRON, SLIGO ON THE N15:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
“To ask the Director of Services to provide traffic calming measures at Cashelgarron, Sligo on the N15”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
There are no funds available to provide anything further at Cashelgarron in the current year.
The road surface here is excellent, signage is in place and the area is well delineated with white lining, road studs and yellow hatching.
The issue of speeding is a matter for An Garda Siochana.
49. CLARIFY WHEN THE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING LIGHTS IN BALLINACARROW VILLAGE ON THE N17 WILL BE REPAIRED:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
"That the Director of Services would clarify as a matter of the utmost urgency, and in the interest of pedestrian and road safety, when the Pedestrian Crossing Lights in Ballinacarrow Village on the N17 will be repaired, as these lights are out of order since they were struck by a motorist in an accident in April 09, and having regard to the fact that this pedestrian crossing, is on one of the country's busiest routes, is used by school children, and also by children to access the playground, which will increase in the summer months, and is also used by people attending events in Ballinacarrow Community Centre, and that this is a matter of grave importance for the health and safety of the residents of Ballinacarrow".
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The lights on one side of the roadway were indeed demolished in a road traffic accident. Every effort is being made to identify the vehicle and driver involved so as to claim for the damage done.
There are no funds currently available to Sligo County Council to have the work done in the meantime. The estimated cost is in the region of 10,000 euro.
35. RECEIVE PROGRESS REPORT ON WHAT STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM WITH THE WATER SUPPLY OF THE GLENVIEW HOUSING ESTATE IN GRANGE:
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
“That this council receive a progress report on what steps have been taken to resolve the problem with the water supply of the Glenview housing estate in Grange. As the residents of this estate have been on a boil notice for the past 22 months”.
In response, Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated the following:
The Water Supply serving the Glenview Housing Estate in Grange is a private water supply and the water supplier is a private developer. It is a duty of the water supplier under the EC (Drinking Water) (No.2) Regulations 2007 to ensure that the water supplied is wholesome and clean and meets the requirements of the Regulations.
Following consultation with the Health Service Executive, Sligo County Council as the supervisory authority for Private Water Supplies has recently issued a legally binding direction to the Water Supplier at Glenview, to ensure that appropriate treatment and controls, including monitoring, are in place to consistently produce drinking water in compliance with the requirements of the EC (Drinking Water) (No.2) Regulations, 2007.
These requirements include the installation of a chlorine monitor and alarm, proposals for the long-term operation and management of the supply, which will include source protection, monitoring and the preparation of incident response plan.
Until these requirements have been completed to the satisfaction of the Health Service Executive and the Council the boil notice remains in place. Sligo County Council has also advised the Water Supplier that a new Water Supply Licensing system is anticipated later this year under the Water Services Act, 2007. This new system will govern the operation of Private Water Supplies, such as that which serves the Glenview Housing Estate at Grange. Water Service providers will be required to demonstrate that they can consistently provide quality water, quality consumer service, and quality management. Licensing requirements will include provision of details in relation to:
- Source protection.
- Treatment plant design.
- Operation, maintenance and service contracts.
- Public liability insurance, employer’s liability, and asset insurance.
- Ensuring essential and adequate supply is in place at all times.
- Emergency plans in the event of any incident.
It is to be emphasized that the primary responsibility to expedite the completion of the required measures to facilitate the removal of the boil notice rests with the water supplier.
50. TO ASK IF FUNDING WILL BE PROVIDED FOR THE PROVISION OF PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS AT THE N4/N59 JUNCTION IN BALLISODARE AND AT THE SLIGO END OF THE VILLAGE, OPPOSITE SUPERVALU:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
"To ask Sligo Co Council if funding will be provided as a matter of priority for the provision of a pedestrian crossing in Ballisodare at the N4/N59 Junction, in light of the high volume of housing estates located on the N59 in Ballisodare Village, and also in light of the presence of the Secondary School in close proximity, and having regard to the fact that this location is subject to very large volumes of traffic and that a pedestrian crossing at this location would provide greater pedestrian safety, and also if the Council will ensure that a pedestrian crossing, along with improvements to the roundabout system at the Sligo end of the village, opposite Super Valu, will take place because of the dangerous crossing conditions for pedestrians”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
Funds are available under National Secondary Accident Remedial Measures to install a pedestrian crossing near Toolan’s shop on the N59 at Ballisodare and this work will commence in the coming weeks.
There are no funds to provide a pedestrian crossing at the Sligo end of the village, however.
51. CALL ON THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT TO ALLOCATE FUNDING FOR THE CONTINUATION OF HOUSING GRANTS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
"That this Council would call on the Minister for the Environment to allocate the necessary funding for the continuation of Housing Grants, for the provision of Housing Aid for the Elderly, Housing adoption Grants for people with disabilities, and Mobility Grants in light of the appalling situation that vulnerable people who have already received Grant Approval, and have negotiated the works with building contractors, cannot now obtain the Grant Money owed to them for this critical work to be carried out, and bearing in mind that this Government are spending up to €1million per week on consultants”
It was then:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on Minister Finneran to provide the necessary funding to process the outstanding applications under the Housing Aid for the Elderly, Housing Adaption Grants for People with Disabilities and Mobility Grants”.
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“That this Council request Minister Finneran to meet a deputation from Sligo County Council regarding extra funding for Housing Grants”.
52. CALL ON DIRECTOR OF SERVICES FOR INFRASTRUCTURE TO HAVE A DOUBLE WHITE LINE PLACED ON THE N4 AT LACKAGH, DRUMFIN:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
“To call on the Director of Services for Infrastructure to have a double white line placed on the N4 at Lackagh, Drumfin in the interest of public safety”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
This location on the N4 at Lackagh will be examined with a view to assessing the need for double white lining in the area.
53. CALL ON DIRECTOR OF SERVICES FOR INFRASTRUCTURE TO EXTEND THE WATER MAIN TO SUPPLY 5 NO. HOUSES IN KNOCKBEG, COLLOONEY:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
“To call of the Director of Services for Infrastructure to extend the water main to supply 5 no. houses in Knockbeg, Collooney as far as Gerry Mullanes”
In response Mr. D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated that:
The five houses referred to in Knockbeg, Collooney are located approximately 800meters from the public water mains. Unfortunately there is no funding in the OandM budget or in existing capital allocations to finance an extension to the public distribution mains in this area at present.
However a private housing development in the adjoining area has extended the water mains to service housing within that development. Pending the taking in charge of services in this private development the Council will review the feasibility of connecting these five houses to the public water supply.
54. CALL ON DIRECTOR OF SERVICES FOR INFRASTRUCTURE TO HAVE 2 NO. SHEEP SIGNS ERECTED ON THE ROAD TO GLEANN, ARIGNA:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
“To call on the Director of Services for Infrastructure to have 2 no. sheep signs erected on the road to Gleann, Arigna where the land is in commonage”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The terrain in this area is such that no ditches or fences exist on much of it. This is normal in many similar scenic areas of the county. It has not been the norm to erect signs indicating the presence of some sheep along the roadway and it is not recommended that signs would be erected at Gleann, Arigna, either.
55. ASK THE COUNCIL FOR UPDATE ON A SEWERAGE SYSTEM FOR BALLYGAWLEY VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To ask the Council to provide an update on the provision of a sewerage system in Ballygawley Village”
In response Mr. D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated that:
Ballygawley Sewerage Scheme: The preliminary report for the scheme has been completed and will be submitted to the Department for approval. The next phase of the scheme involves land acquisition, planning procedures and preparation of tender documents. This work will be progressed pending approval of the preliminary report and subject to the approval of funding from the Department and the necessary loan approval to meet the Council’s contribution towards the cost of the scheme.
56. ASK THE COUNCIL TO CARRY OUT REPAIRS ON FOOTPATH OUTSIDE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN COLLOONEY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To ask the Council to carry out repairs to footpath outside the Catholic Church in Collooney”.
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The footpath outside the Catholic Church in Collooney will be examined by the Area Engineer, to assess its condition, but very little funding is available at present.
57. ASK THE COUNCIL TO PROVIDE PARKING AREA FOR SCHOOL BUSES AT KILROSS N.S. IN BALLYGAWLEY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To ask the Council to provide a parking area for school buses at Kilross N.S. in Ballygawley”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
There are no funds available in the present very difficult economic climate to provide a parking area for school buses at Kilross N.S.
Mr. O’Toole also advised that issues regarding parking at the school would be a matter for the Board of Management of the school and the Department of Education.
37. REQUEST THE COUNCIL TO CARRY OUT RE-SURFACING ON THE N17 AT CHURCH ST., TUBBERCURRY:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To request the council to carry out road re-surfacing on the N17 at Church St. Tubbercurry from the pedestrian crossing at Doohan’s shop past St. George’s Church and North Connaught College and out to the junction of the Cloonacool road in Tubbercurry.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
It is proposed to carry out some resurfacing of the worst part of the N17 here in the current year using National Primary Pavement Grant allocated for 2009.
39. RE-INTRODUCTION OF SUMMER WORKS SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“That this Council welcomes the re-introduction of the summer works scheme that will carry out very important works on Culfadda NS and Killaville NS in south Sligo”.
It was agreed to adjourn the following Items to the September Council meeting: 32-34, 36, 43-44.
58. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Frank O’Dowd on the death of his uncle, Kevin O’Dowd.”
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Brenda O’Boyle on the death of her mother, Phyllis Keaveney.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to John Phillips on the death of his mother, Mary Phillips.”
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Pauline McHugh on the death of her husband, Vincent McHugh.”
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Maureen Feeney on the death of her husband, Seán Feeney.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Marie Brett on the death of her mother, Kathleen Brett.”
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bernadette O’Hara on the death of her uncle, Denis O’Hara.”
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bernadette Keane on the death of her husband, Jack Keane.
Meeting Date 06/07/2009