Minutes 2009

Minutes of October Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 5th October 2009 in County Hall, Riverside, Sligo at 11am

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 Henry,
Councillor Keaney,
Councillor Leonard,
Councillor Lundy,
Councillor Lyons,
Councillor MacManus,
Councillor McGrath,
Councillor McLoughlin,
Councillor Mullaney,
Councillor Mulvey,
Councillor Murray,
Councillor O’Grady
Councillor Queenan

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

Mr T. Kilfeather, Acting County Manager
Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
Ms R. McNulty, Director of Services
Mr T. Brennan, Acting Director of Services
Ms P. R. Gallagher, Acting Director of Services
Ms M. Leydon, Head of Finance
Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer
Mr F. O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer
Mr F. Moylan, Acting Senior Planner
Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
Ms E. Concannon, Senior Executive Engineer
Mr B. Flynn, Senior Executive Engineer
Ms. S. Ryan, Heritage Officer
Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray presided.

1. MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 7TH SEPTEMBER, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the September Ordinary Meeting held on the 7th September, 2009”

2. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEEING HELD ON 15TH MAY, 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 15th May, 2009”

3. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001- PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF THE N59 REALIGNMENT FARRANYHARPY TO BALLYGREIGHAN:

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 the proposed construction of the N59 Realignment Farranyharpy to Ballygreighan in the townlands of Farranyharpy, Doonflin Lower, Doonflin Upper, Grange Beg, Ballinphull and Ballygreighan in, Co. Sligo”

4. PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001 PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF BRANCH LIBRARY AT TEELING STREET, BALLYMOTE:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in accordance with the Local Government(Planning and Development) Act 2000, as amended, Part XI, Section 179, and the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001, Part 8 (Article 81) as amended proceed with the provision of a new Branch Library at Teeling Street, Ballymote, Co. Sligo”

5. TO CONSIDER MANAGER’S REPORT ON PRE-DRAFT SUBMISSIONS- REVIEW OF SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2001-2010:

A general discussion took place in relation to this item. Following discussion it was:-

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council resolves that the section relating to telecommunications in the current County Development Plan, which indicates that base stations and telecommunications masts should not be constructed within one mile of schools, community facilities, hospitals, etc and to within 400m of private dwellings, be retained in the Draft County Development Plan 2011-2017”

It was then

Proposed by Councillor Bree
Seconded by Councillor MacManus

“That the following objective be included in the Draft Development Plan 2011-2017:- The Council within one year of adoption of the Development Plan will compile a list of public rights of way for inclusion in the Plan. The Council will seek submissions from the public, walking clubs, and other associations representing recreations users of the countryside. The Council will take all necessary steps, including legal proceedings, to ensure that rights of way are kept open. Rights of way should be shown on maps and waymarked on the ground to make it clear the actual route so that both landowners and walkers know that it is a right of way. In compiling the list the Council should keep the landowners advised at all stages”

After further discussion and as agreement could not be reached, the Cathaoirleach called for a vote:

FOR: Bree, Clarke, MacManus
AGAINST: Barrett, Barry, Collery, Devins, Fleming, Gormley, Healy McGowan, Keaney, Lundy, Lyons, McGrath, McLoughlin, Mullaney, Mulvey, Murray, Queenan
ABSTENTIONS: Cawley, Leonard

As the result was 3 For, 16 Against and 2 Abstentions, the Cathaoirleach declared the motion defeated.

It was then

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

AND AGREED

“That having considered the County Manager’s Report dated 31st August, 2009 under Section 11 (4) of the Planning and Development Acts, 2000 – 2007, which was submitted to the members of the Planning Authority, and having considered the proper planning and sustainable development of the area to which the Development Plan relates, it is hereby directed that the County Manager proceed to prepare the Draft Development Plan for the County of Sligo area in accordance with the provisions of the Planning and Development Acts, 2000 – 2007 and in accordance with the amendment agreed at this meeting of 5th October”.

6. TO FIX A DATE TO CONSIDER THE THIRD MANAGERS REPORT IN RELATION TO THE DRAFT SLIGO AND ENVIRONS DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2010-2016:

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

AND AGREED

“That a special meeting of Sligo County Council to consider the Third Manager’s Report in relation to the Draft Sligo and Environs Development Plan, 2010-2016 be held on 2nd November, 2009, with the Monthly meeting been held on 9th November, 2009”

7. TO NOTE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTS SMARTER TRAVEL AREAS COMPETITION:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Leonard

AND AGREED

“To note Sligo County Council’s intention to apply for funding under the Department of Transports Smarter Travel Areas competition”

In response to Members Queries, Ms. E. Concannon outlined that this grant was available for more populated areas and the Department of Transport may have other grants available in future for rural towns and villages.

It was agreed that items 8 and 9 be taken together.

8. DEVELOPMENT CHARGES LEVIED ON RURAL HOUSES:

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

“In relation to development charges levied on rural dwellings being constructed, which are not connected to water or sewerage services provided by Sligo County Council, that those developments be exempt from the charges relating to provision of community services including libraries, lighting, footpaths etc”.

9. DEVELOPMENT CHARGES LEVIED ON RURAL HOUSES:

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

“That the system that existed up to now whereby applicants in the rural areas who opt to drill a well for their own water supply are exempt from development contributions”

In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

These motions were deferred to allow legal advice to be sought. This advice is now to hand and has been circulated to the members. The advice covers 2 areas as follows:

Validity of Planning permissions: - Advice is that neither motions if passed will effect the validity of existing planning permissions as decisions on the application of the development contributions Scheme are Executive functions to be performed by the County Manager or his delegate.
Wording in Scheme:-The advice states the wording in the current scheme does not support an exemption where facilities are available, but the applicant chooses not to use them. The advice further states that it is surely consistent with public policy to decide that where facilities such as treated water and sewage treatment have been provided at considerable cost by the Local Authority that developers should be incentisised to use them by requiring that they contribute to the costs whether or not they do so.

Accordingly, the Manager proposed to perform the function into the future on the basis of the legal advice received. The Council will (in cases where public water facilities are available but where well bores are proposed) proceed to seek to collect all elements of the development contributions including the water contribution levy. This will also apply to all existing cases.

Following further discussion, it was

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council set up a sub-committee to look at the Development Contributions Scheme”

The meeting agreed the following as members of the Sub Committee:

Councillor M. Fleming, Councillor M. Gormley, Councillor G. Mullaney, Councillor V. Cawley, Councillor M. Clarke, Councillor J. Lundy. The meeting then agreed to defer item No. 9 to enable the sub-committee to report back to the December, 2009 meeting.

10. REQUEST GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT FAMILY RESOURCE PROGRAMME:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to continue to support the family resource programme, in particular the family resource centre in Tubbercurry and also in Ballymote, Easkey and Sligo”

11. RE-OCCURING WATER PROBLMS IN GURTEEN, MONASTERADEN AND CLOONLOO IN SOUTH SLIGO:

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

“In view of the re-occurring problems of burst water mains in the Gurteen, Monasteraden and Cloonloo areas of South Sligo, what plans have this Council in place to solve this serious problem”

In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:

The watermains in the Gurteen, Monasteraden and Cloonloo areas were assessed as part of the Sligo Water Conservation and Network Management Project and a prioritized schedule of mains rehabilitation works has been compiled and submitted to the Department for funding approval. A section of watermain along the R294, Gurteen to Boyle road has received advance funding from the Department to facilitate the completion of road works at this location. The replacement of this section of watermain is now substantially complete.

The water in the Gurteen, Monasteraden and Cloonloo areas of south Sligo is supplied by Roscommon County Council from the North Roscommon Water Supply Scheme. The disruptions to the South Sligo Water Supply have been as a result of bursts on the rising main from the county boundary to the storage reservoir near Monasteraden and more recently on the distribution main downstream of the reservoir. The Council have carried out modifications to the pumping arrangements for this supply as a result of initial investigations and additional pressure management systems will be installed. The water supply into the South Sligo area is being continuously monitored on an ongoing basis.

15. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO REVERSE DECISION TO CENTRALISE MEDICAL CARD APPLICATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council oppose the HSE’s plans to centralise all medical card applications and call on the Minister for Health to reverse the decision”

16. PROVIDE SIGHTLINES AT CHESTNUT COURT, TOP ROAD, STRANDHILL:

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

“That Sligo County Council takes the necessary action to ensure that adequate sightlines are provided to the left when exiting Chestnut Court onto the Top Road, Strandhill. Such improvement will include setting back portion of wall at this location”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

In order to improve sightlines in southerly direction, land would have to be acquired and the roadside fence set back.

No funding is available in the current year to carry out this work. However, this will be considered for funding under the 2010 Roadworks scheme. In the meantime, further discussions could be entered into with the Developer along this stretch of roadway.

17. REVERSE DECISION TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE BALLYMOTE LIBRARY:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to reverse its decision regarding the temporary closure of the Library Facilities in Ballymote”

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

Ballymote Library will open for normal opening hours, as and from Tuesday 6th October, 2009. A temporary solution to the shortage of staff has been found. This resumption of service will be reviewed in four weeks time with a view to extending this cover, if possible.

18. PROVIDE HEDGE TRIMMING IN BALLYMOTE AREA

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

“To ask Sligo County Council as to why there was only minimal hedge trimming carried out in the Ballymote Electoral Area”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

It is the responsibility under the Roads Act of the adjoining landowner to maintain roadside hedges. Sligo County Council, where funds permit and in the interest of safety have trimmed roadside verges and hedges at junctions on National and Regional Roads.

19. PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS IN BALLYMOTE:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update regarding Pedestrian Crossings in Ballymote”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

Funding was made available this year under the Non National Low Cost Improvement schemes to construct a pedestrian crossing at the junction on the R293 at Perry’s shop. Following a public consultation on the 12th August, 2009 it was decided that the crossing should be located at the church on the Bunninadden road. A design is currently being done and it is proposed that works will commence within 4 weeks.

20. REQEUST THE GOVERNMENT TO PUBLISH THE NATIONAL CARERS STRATEGY:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council calls on the Taoiseach and Minister for Social and Family Affairs to publish the National Carers Strategy as committed to in the Social Partnership Agreement – Towards 2016 and in the Programme for Government, as a matter of principal.”

21. DEVELOP OFFICE/LIBRARY/ONE-STOP SHOP AND HSE FACILITIES AT DROMORE WEST:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

“To call on Sligo County Council to begin the process and develop office/library/one stop shop and HSE facilities including ambulance bay on Council land at Knocknacullen, Dromore West”

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

The Library Development Plan does not include the development of a library in Dromore West and our priority list with the Department also does not have an entry for Dromore West. Dromore West was due to be served by a mobile library service which is included in the plan.

The next library to be built after Ballymote is due to be Sligo Central and HQ. The current library infrastructure cannot support another branch library development in the county until such time as the County Library is built to accommodate the necessary support services for the network. The Library Development Plan is due to elapse in 2010.

22. REDUCE SPEED ON L 6102-0 COONEY ROAD:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

“To call on Sligo County Council to reduce the Speed on L 6102-0 Cooney Road from 80Km to 50 Km, in the interest of road safety and to carry out a root and branch review of all the speed limits on our county”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The Department of Transport has set a default speed limit of 80km/hr on all Non-National roads. Special speed limits of 50km/hr and 60km/hr are in place in built up areas. L6102-0 Cooney road is not in a built up area, an 80km/hr speed limit applies.

It was agreed that items 23 and 37 be taken together.

23. PROVIDE BUOYS AT BALLISODARE BRIDGE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

“To call on Sligo County Council to put in place Buoys on and in and around Ballisodare Bridge on the Ballisodare river in the interest of Public Safety”

37. PROVIDE BUOYS AT BALLSIDOARE BRIDGE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

“To ask Sligo County Council if extra life buoys can be provided along the river at Ballysodare?”

In response to both motions, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

Sligo County Council’s water safety officer will arrange with the Irish Water Safety Headquarters in Galway to have a risk assessment carried out in this area and this assessment will advise where and how many life buoys should be erected on and in and around Ballisodare Bridge.

24. REQEUST THE GOVERNMENT TO PUBLISH THE NATIONAL CARERS STRATEGY:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

25. REQUEST IARNROD EIREANN TO STOP CHARGING INCREASED FARES ON FRIDAYS AND SUNDAYS:

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

AND AGREED

“Due to the number of trains now on the Sligo/Dublin line this Council calls on Iarnrod Eireann to discontinue charging increased fares to passengers on Fridays and Sundays”

26. REQUEST TAKING IN CHARGE OF WATER PUMPING STATION AT SPRINGVALE ESTATE, TUBBERCURRY:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructural Services, is it the Council’s intention to take in charge the water pumping booster station located at Springvale Estate, Tubbercurry?”

In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:

The Springvale Estate in Tubbercurry was constructed by a private developer. No application has been received by the Council from the developer for the taking in charge of this estate. Sligo County Council will consider the taking in charge of the water pumping booster station within this estate once an application for same has been submitted by the developer.

27. PROMOTE BUSINESS, JOB CREATION AND TOURISM IN TUBBERCURRY AND SOUTH SLIGO:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to work in partnership with Tubbercurry Chamber of Commerce and Community Association and Tubbercurry Tidy Towns Committee to promote business, job creation and tourism in Tubbercurry and south Sligo”

In response, Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated the following:

Sligo County Council is committed to working with Tubbercurry Chamber of Commerce and Community Association and Tubbercurry Tidy Towns Committee to promote business, job creation and tourism in Tubbercurry and South Sligo.

Sligo County Council has engaged with the relevant partners in pursuit of enterprise opportunities as part of the County Development Board Action Plan and is currently planning a training and enterprise event for the area.

Sligo County Council engaged a Project Officer who developed an Economic Development Plan 2008 for Tubbercurry which is being implemented by the relevant agencies. The creation of looped walks in the area is also being explored. This will cater to both locals and tourists alike.

Sligo County Council supports the Tubbercurry Tidy Towns Committee and will continue to work with the committee in future years.

It was agreed that items 28 and 41 be taken together.

28. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO ALLOW TURF CUTTING ON LOCAL BOGS:

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

AND AGREED

“To request this Council to write to Minister John Gormley to ask that turf cutting be allowed to continue on local bogs in County Sligo into the future”

41. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO ALLOW TURF CUTTING ON LOCAL BOGS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council supports the right of turf cutters to continue the harvesting of turf on bogs where this work has been carried on for years. The Minister for the Environment should protect those turbary rights in any future proposed legislation”

In response to both motions, Ms. S. Ryan, Heritage Officer stated the following:

The Cessation of Turf Cutting Scheme (CTCS) is being delivered exclusively through the National Parks and Wildlife Section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The purpose of the scheme is to phase out domestic turf cutting on raised bogs in Ireland which are designated as Special Areas of Conservation or Natural Heritage Areas.
Currently, turf cutting is not prohibited on most bogs, although on SAC’s and NHA’s, cutting must be for domestic or non-commercial purposes and the use of certain machinery is prohibited. In addition, cutting on blanket bog Special Areas of Conservation will be allowed to continue under the current restrictions.

A derogation, permitting a ten year continuation of cutting for domestic use on 32 raised bogs, which was granted by the Government in 1999, expires this year (2009). Only a small proportion, 4%, of peatlands in the State will be affected by the CTCS. There are over 1,500 raised bogs in the State and only 130 of these have been designated for nature protection and will be subject to the CTCS. In March 2009, Minister Gormley outlined that ‘raised bogs are hugely important and support exceptional but increasingly rare ecosystems. Because of this they are priority habitats under the EU Habitats Directive and Ireland is legally obliged to protect them. Ireland has already exploited over 95% of the raised bogs that we once had. The CTCS is a measure to ensure the protection of a small proportion of what remains. Although the Government has operated a voluntary purchase scheme for the past 10 years, and restrictions have been in place for cutting on designated raised bogs, these measures have been unsuccessful in protecting these bogs.’ In introducing the CTCS the Governments objective is to bring about a complete cessation of turf cutting on these sites, as signalled in 1999.

In County Sligo, the cessation of turf cutting will come into effect on a phased basis at the following Raised Bogs:

Flughany Bog End of 2009 Mayo and Sligo
River Moy End of 2012 Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo

An Inter-Departmental group has been established to advise the Minister on turf-cutting in raised bog SAC’s and NHA’s. It will consider representations from turf cutting interests and other interested parties, the provision of compensation where appropriate and how to achieve effective preservation and restoration of the raised bogs. In addition, a Designated Bog Compensation Scheme is currently being operated through the Site Protection Section, NPWS, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. Further details are available on:

http://www.npws.ie/en/FarmersLandowners/

29. DISPOSAL OF OLD PAINT TINS AT TUBBERCURRY RECYCLING PLANT:

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

“To ask the Director of Services if the disposal of old paint and paint tins at the Tubbercurry recycling plant will be introduced in the near future”

In response, Mr F. O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:

There are 2 no civic amenity sites operating at present in the County, one in Tubbercurry, the other at Deep Water Quay in Sligo. Both accept the majority of household hazardous waste excluding paint and paint tins. In the past Sligo County Council have operated a mobile Chem -car service as a drop off point for the collection of household hazardous waste – in particular old paint tins. This required a private specialist contractor basing a mobile unit in Tubbercurry and Sligo for a short period of time and the public invited to dispose of household hazardous waste on that day. Unfortunately we are unable to offer this service at present because of limited funds and the high cost of this service – disposal of waste of this nature is very costly.

However we will endeavour to provide this service again in the coming year should funding be made available.”

30. REQEUST THE GOVERNMENT TO CARRY OUT WORKS ON THE N17 AT CURRY VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“To request the NRA and Minister for Transport to provide funding to carry out surfacing works on the N17 at Curry village, including road markings to indicate right turn for traffic travelling south to Charlestown”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

Surfacing Works will be carried out at the N17 Curry Village under the N17 Pavement Surfacing Repairs Contract 2009. Works will commence about mid October. As part of the works road markings consist of a set of 3 right turn arrows will be laid indicating a right turn into local road L4902-19 for traffic travelling south towards Charlestown.

31. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE GRANT AID TO LOWER RADON LEVELS:

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

“As Sligo is identified as having high Radon readings, this Council should allocate funds to carry out an awareness programme for householders and request the Minister for Environment to provide grant aid for works necessary to lower the levels of Radon in dwelling houses”
In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

The Radiological Protector Institute of Ireland (RPII) is the body responsible for radiological protection in Ireland. It constantly monitors radiation in the environment so as to assess the level of radiation to which the population is exposed. Environmental radiation comes from a variety of sources, of which the largest natural source is radon. The RPII had advised local authorities to carry out a radon measurement programme in its social housing starting with those homes located in high radon areas. Money has been provided in the 2009 Budget, in this regard.

It is the view of the Council that the lead in this area should be taken by the RPII, as the Council does not have any funds to carry out such an awareness programme. It is also our view that the RPII should carry out such a programme in Sligo and the Council would support such a campaign, in whatever way it could.

The second part of the Motion in so far as it relates to the request to the Minister for the Environment to provide grant aid for works necessary to lower the levels of radon in dwelling houses is a matter for the members, and certainly if provided would be very welcome.

It was agreed to write to the Department of the Environment in this regard.

Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

Sligo County Council embarked on a Radon Survey in a selected number of its Housing Stock in 2009. One Hundred houses were selected and radon detectors are currently in place in all units. The radon measurement guidelines recommend that these detectors are to be left in place for at least three months before they are removed and subsequently measured for radon levels.

32. REQEUST THE GOVERNMENT TO HALT DRASTIC CUTS IN COMMUNITY RELATED PROJECTS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to halt its present policy of drastic cuts to community support programmes. In particular, we are opposed to the proposals for further significant reductions to this sector contained in the McCarthy report.
Some, but not all, of the many areas to be affected include Community Development Projects, Rural Transport Projects, Drugs Task Force, Disability and Mental Health Organisations and Family Resource Centres. These cuts will devastate the Community Sector and bring severe hardship and increased poverty to the poorest communities across the state. This Council calls on the Government to stop harming the weakest in our society”

33. TO CONSIDER TAKING IN CHARGE ‘CASTLE COVE’ HOUSING ESTATE IN ENNISCRONE:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to consider taking in charge ‘Castle Cove’ Housing Estate in Enniscrone”

In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

This estate was built as a holiday home development. It is the policy of the Sligo County Council not to take holiday home developments in charge. The maintenance of the holiday home estate is the responsibility of the developer.

Following further discussion, Councillor Queenan agreed to defer this motion so as to allow the Enforcement section to carry out an inspection of this Estate with a report to be provided at the November meeting.

34. REDUCTION OF SPEED LIMIT THROUGH CORBALLA VILLAGE ON THE N59:

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

“To ask the Director of Services to give an update report on the reduction of speed limit through Corballa Village on the N59”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

Approval has still not been received from the National Roads Authority regarding a reduced speed limit through Corballa on the N59. The Directorate will be making contact with the NRA this week in an effort to finalise this matter.

Following further discussion, it was

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council seek clarification from the Minister for Transport regarding future funding for local and county roads, that it will be Local Authorities that will be responsible and not the NRA”

35. REQUEST A MEETING WITH MANAGEMENT OF SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Mr Gerry Murray to organise a meeting between Management of Sligo General Hospital and Members of Sligo County Council, so that we can be briefed about the day-to-day Management of the hospital and its future plans”

36. PROVIDE EXTRA LIGHTS AT CARRIGNAT, COLLOONEY:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

To ask Sligo County Council, if it is possible to get two extra lights at Carrignat (near Quigley’s pub ) Collooney, down to Devaney’s house and if a top coat or finish layer can be applied to the footpaths here also?”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There would be a number of public lights required to provide public lighting to ESB standards from Carricknagat to Devaney’s house. Ducting would have to be laid as well as providing the lamp columns.

The public lighting improvement budget from the Discretionary Improvement Grant is committed for 2009 but this proposal can be considered under the 2010 Discretionary Improvement Grant.

In relation to the footpath improvements requested, the upgrading of the footpath can be considered under the 2010 Road Works Scheme.

38. WATER PRESSURE PROBLEMS AT MOUNTAIN PARK, COOLANEY:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

“To ask Sligo County Council, why some residents in Mountain Park, Coolaney are having water pressure problems?”

In response, Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services stated the following:

Sligo County Council is currently investigating a query regarding water pressure in Mountain Park, Coolaney and we will continue to monitor water pressures in this area on an ongoing basis.

39. DEVELOPMENT LEVIES:

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

“That the Council be provided with a full report outlining the amount of Development Levies collected by the Council since the beginning of the year and the amount still outstanding”

In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

It was agreed at the March 2009 meeting of Sligo County Council to provide the members with a quarterly report in relation to development levies. Reports for the March and June 2009 quarters have been furnished to the members. The September 2009 Quarterly report will be forwarded in due course.

The meeting agreed to defer this item to the November meeting.

It was agreed that Items 40 and 48 be taken together.

40. HAZELWOOD HOUSE

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

“That the Council be provided with a report regarding Hazelwood House including details of action taken by the Council to prevent the protected structure from becoming endangered.”

48. HAZELWOOD HOUSE:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on the repairs to Hazelwood House as per the section 59 order which was imposed on Foresthaze Developments”

In response to both motions, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

The Members will recall that the condition of Hazelwood House was discussed at the meeting of Sligo County Council on 11/5/09. The Members were advised that the Council had received a complaint with regard to rain coming through the roof areas of the house. The
Members were further advised that an inspection had been carried out and a report and recommendation were being prepared for consideration by the Director of Services.

A notice under Section 59 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 was subsequently served on the owner of Hazelwood house on 26/05/09. This notice required the following works to be carried out within a period of 8 weeks from the date on which the notice came into effect (i.e. 4 weeks from the date of service):

Take such actions and carry out such remedial works as agreed with the Planning Authority to prevent the ingress of water to all elements of the structure and specifically:

To protect the fabric of the West Wing and Single Storey Quadrant Corridor and roofs of same from the ingress of the rain
To protect the main dwelling from ingress of water at roof level in and around the chimneys, window heads, windows, valleys, gutters and associate hoppers, downpipes and soil vent pipes
The protection and repair of the roof to the Ballroom
The protection, repair and cleaning out of the exterior basement areas and retaining walls
The repair and protection of all chimney stacks.

A further inspection was carried out on 22/09/09 whereby it was noted that no works had been undertaken to address the issues set out in the Section 59 Notice.

The owner has now sought a meeting with the Council to discuss this matter. In addition the Members are advised that a meeting has been arranged for Tuesday next with the Hazelwood Action Group, the Irish Heritage Trust and the Sligo Field Club. The matter will be further reviewed by the Council at that stage.

Following a query from Councillor D. Bree in relation to taking legal action, Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services informed Members that it was Council policy to try and resolve issues by agreement, after which legal action would be considered.

Councillor H. Keaney asked that the owner should provide a detailed work programme and time scale for same.

42. UNSAFE SECTION OF ROAD IN CULFADDA VILLAGE:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructural Services who is responsible for making safe the section of road in Culfadda village that has subsided and when is it expected the work will be carried out as its a safety issue”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The subsidence that has occurred along Cr 482 Culfadda village is as a result of construction of 2 no houses under planning permission Pl 03/294 -. The location has been secured by the Tubbercurry Area staff but no funds currently exist to carry out any further repair works. The Enforcement Department are in contact with the Developer concerned regarding the completion of this development and repair of the road.

It was then,

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Minister for Transport and the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaelteacht Affairs to make emergency funds available to make safe section of road that has subsided in Culfadda Village”

43. UPGRADING OF ROAD AT BALLINODE/HAZELWOOD:

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

“That the Council be informed on when the Part 8 for the upgrading of the road at Ballinode/Hazelwood will come before this Council”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The plans are well advanced and it is hoped to advertise the proposal as part of the public consultation process before this Christmas.

It is proposed to bring the Part 8 proposal before the Council Meeting early 2010.

Councillor J. Devins asked that some immediate remedial works take place on this stretch of roadway to improve safety for pedestrians/cyclists.

44. GOVERNMENT’S LONG TERM LEASING SCHEME:

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

“That the Council receive a report on the number of houses that are been considered and approved under the Government’s long term leasing scheme”

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

To date no units have been approved under the new Long Term Leasing Arrangements. Sligo County is currently considering two developments for this scheme, one in the North of the County and one outside the Borough. Stage 1 and stage 2 assessments have been completed on both developments. An initial inspection has also taken place on both developments. Arrangements are currently been made to commence negotiations with the respective developers with the ultimate view to securing leasing agreements.

45. PROVIDE FUNDING TO IMPROVE ROADWAY AT SOOEY:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide funding out of next year’s allocation for a stretch of road starting from Sooey hall towards Sooey cemetery and also for the laying of tarmac out on the carpark at Sooey church”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The public road starting from Sooey hall towards Sooey cemetery can be included for consideration in the 2010 road works programme.

46. HOUSING ESTATE AT BALLYGAWLEY, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“To ask Sligo County Council to make an enquiry to ask the Developer to see what date will the tarmac be laid at Dun ar Ree Estate, Ballygawley, Co Sligo, as the houses are built 3 years now”

Councillor T. Collery indicated the name of the estate was “Riocht Na Sí and not as stated in the motion.

In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

A warning letter was served on the developer of this estate, Riocht Na Si´ on 10/07/09. The developer’s agent advised the Council on 14/07/09 that the roads would be completed within 3 months.

The matter will be kept under review by the Council to ensure that this deadline is adhered to, and further enforcement action will be taken by the Council, if necessary.

It was agreed that Items 47 and 50 be taken together.

47. CUTTING OF HEDGES AT KELLY’S LANE, CARRICKBANAGHER, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide funding for the cutting of hedges known as Kelly’s lane, Carrickbanagher, Co Sligo, as there is 40 houses on this road”

50. CUTTING OF HEDGES AT ROAD JUNCTIONS:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

“To ask the Council to ensure that all minor road junctions are maintained in a safe and proper manner in relation to signage and hedge cutting”

In response to both motions, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

It is the responsibility of adjoining land owners under the roads act to cut hedges bounding the public road. Sligo County Council trims roadside verges and hedges in the interests of safety and where budgets allow at junctions, mainly on National and Regional Roads. This may include the clearing of vegetation and growth from around roadside signs.

49. PROTECT SAND DUNES AT ROSSES POINT:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Devins

“To ask Sligo County Council what plans are in place to protect the sand dunes at Rosses Point main beach area”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The erosion and accretion of sand dunes is a natural process within a coastal cell. Storm waves sometimes sweep away sand at the base of fore dunes making them steeper and less stable, the dune then falls and eventually adjusts naturally to a more stable angle/slope, sand may also wash and blow in from the lower beach and help to rebuild the lower slopes. This process occurs at all coastal beaches and fore dunes and there are many miles of such beaches in County Sligo in at least ten locations. The sand dunes at the second beach at Rosses Point are privately owned by County Sligo Golf Club. The protection of the golf course at the southern end of the second beach is currently the subject of a planning application by the Golf Club and relates to elimination of recession of the dune front in that location and forms a continuation of previous similar protection works by the Golf Club. Sligo County Council does not have plans relating to this private dune system.

It was agreed to take items 12, 13 and 14.

12. PROPOSED WORKS ON ROAD290:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery

“To ask Sligo County Council when works will be proceeding on Road 290 on section leading to the roundabout in Collooney”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

This section of roadway is in poor condition but there are no funds available in the current year to improve it.

13. PROVIDE STREET LIGHTING AT CHURCH OF IRELAND, BALLYSADARE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery

“To ask Sligo County Council when the provision of street lighting will take place on the junction beside Church of Ireland, Ballysadare”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

Street lighting here is part of a development being completed in Ballysadare. The Planning Department is currently following up on this matter by way of conditions on a current application for retention.

14. PROVIDE HEDGE TRIMMING ON SECONDARY ROADS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery

“To ask Sligo County Council that hedges and grass be cutback on secondary roads.”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There are no funds available to cut grass along secondary roads except at junctions and some particularly dangerous locations.

50. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Mattie Brennan on the death of his wife, Sheila Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Marie Doherty on the death of her mother, Sheila Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Eithne Brennan on the death of her husband, Louie Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Seamus Durcan on the death of his mother, Bridie Durcan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Catherine Gallagher on the death of her brother, Mattie Clarke.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Mary Brennan on the death of her father-in-law, Francis Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Frances Durcan on the death of her sister, Sr. Augustine Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Germanus Whittington on the death of his mother, Brigid Whittington.”

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Eithne Brennan on the death of her husband, Louie Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Seamus Durcan on the death of his mother, Bridie Durcan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Marie Doherty on the death of her mother, Sheila Brennan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Sean Tansey on the death of his brother, Pakie Tansey.”

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Catherine and jimmy Gallagher on the death of their brother, Mattie Clarke.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr. Oliver Cooney on the death of his wife, Myra Cooney.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Michelle Kearns on the death of her husband, Tom Kearns.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr Michael McGowan on the death of his wife, Atty McGowan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr. Michael McDonald on the death of his son, Pat McDonald.”

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Leonard

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to John and Bridget King and Family on the death of their son, John King.”

52. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Boys and Girls of Curry GAA Club for winning the 2009 Minor County Championship”

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Ballisodare Junior Gaelic Football Team for winning the Junior A Gaelic Final on Saturday 3rd October.”

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Jimmy McGrath and the Intermediate Senior Men, Geevagh GAA Club on winning the County Intermediate Title.”

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr Seamus McDonagh and the Senior Ladies Team and Manager, Geevagh GAA Club on winning the Senior County Title.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Dearbhla Walsh on recently winning an ‘Emmy Award’ in Los Angeles, USA.”

53. CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That the list of Conferences circulated for September at this meeting was unanimously approved”

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“to nominate the Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray to visit the U.S. to meet the Sligo Associations during the St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations next March”

54. CORRESPONDENCE

Councillor M. Gormley expressed her disappointment at the response received from the HSE regarding retention of the Rapid Response Vehicle in South Sligo.

55. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

There were no matters arising.

56. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Members expressed their appreciation and good wishes to Mr Declan Breen, Director of Services and Mr Brendan Carolan, Senior Planner on their recent retirement from Sligo County Council

The meeting ended at 4.45pm.

Meeting Date 05/10/2009