Minutes 2010
Minutes of March Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 1st March 2010 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 McGarry,
- Councillor McGrath,
- Councillor McLoughlin,
- Councillor Mullaney,
- Councillor Mulvey,
- Councillor Murray,
- Councillor O’Grady,
- Councillor Queenan
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
- Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
- Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services
- Ms P. R. Gallagher, Acting Director of Services
- Ms M. Leydon, Head of Finance
- Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer
- Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer
- Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
- Mr S. Ward, Executive Planner
- Ms. S. Ryan, Heritage Officer
- Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
- Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator
CATHAOIRLEAH:
- The Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray presided.
At the outset, the Cathaoirleach welcomed students from Sligo Grammer Secondary School as part of the Open Local Government Initiative.
1. MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 1ST FEBRUARY, 2010:
Councillor D. Bree questioned the accuracy of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 1st February, 2010 stating that comments made by him at the meeting were not recorded.
It was then,
Proposed by Councillor M. Lyons
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the February Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on the 1st February, 2010”.
Councillor D. Bree asked to be recorded as dissenting.
2. MINUTES OF THE TUBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 16TH JANUARY, 2009:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 16th January, 2009
3. MINUTES OF THE TUBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 14TH NOVEMBER 2008:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 14th November, 2008”
4. MINUTES OF THE TUBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 22ND SEPTEMBER 2008:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 22nd September, 2008”
5. MINUTES OF THE TUBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 29TH JULY 2008:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 29th July, 2008”
6. MINUTES OF THE TUBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 16TH MAY 2008:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 16th May, 2008”
7. MINUTES OF THE TUBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 4TH MARCH 2008:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 4th March, 2008”
8. SECTION 183 DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT BALLYNACARRIGA, BALLYMOTE:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of property at Ballynacarriga, Ballymote, Co. Sligo to Catherine Fanning”
9. SECTION 183 DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT CARROWNTAWY, BALLINACARROW:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of property at Carrowntawy to Mr Darren Reynolds”
10. SECTION 183 DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT CARROWNANTY, BALLYMOTE:
Councillor D. Bree asked for clarification in relation to the initial purchase price of the property in question. In response, the County Manager indicated he did not have an immediate response for Councillor Bree at that time but informed the meeting that this Disposal was being carried out in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 and it was up to Members to agree or disagree with the Disposal of the Property. Members agreed to further discuss this item after Lunch break.
11. TO APPROVE IN PRINCIPAL TRANSFER OF LANDS AT RIVERSTOWN:
Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To approve in principal the transfer/disposal of property knows as Fort Field, Ardkeeran, Riverstown by way of 25 year lease to Riverstown Tidy Towns Committee”
Councillor M. Baker asked that the disposal of this property in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 be placed before the April Ordinary Meeting for its consideration.
12. TO APPROVE IN PRINCIPAL THE TRANSFER OF LANDS AT TEELING STREET, BALLYMOTE:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To approve in principle the transfer/disposal of property known as Old Cinema Building, Teeling Street, Ballymote by way of a 25 year lease to Ballymote Community Enterprises”
Councillor P. McGrath asked that the disposal of this property in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 be placed before the April Ordinary Meeting for its consideration.
A general discussion took place on this Item and Members queries were answered. Mr H. Kearns, County Manager indicated that one of the main reasons for the Council’s poor financial position was the provision of and the annual maintenance costs of the water services programme which by law, the Council were obliged to provide.
It was
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
“That this Council agree that the Statutory Audit Report to the Members of the Council for the year ended 31st December, 2008, be forwarded to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for investigation and for his consideration”
As there was no Seconder for this motion, the motion fell.
13. TO CONSIDER AUDIT REPORT FOR YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER, 2008:
Proposed by Councillor Bree
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“Arising from the Auditors report, the Council be provided with an update regarding proposed allocations under the Development Contribution funding for Community, Sports, Recreational, Tourism and Cultural Facilities Scheme including the number of projects funded since 2008 and the list of proposed projects which have yet to be granted funding”
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“To note the statutory audit report on the accounts of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31st December 2008”
The meeting agreed that an item dealing with the financial situation of the Council be placed on the Agenda of the Corporate Policy Group Meetings each month and it was further agreed that the Minutes of the Corporate Policy Group Meetings would be circulated to Members.
14. TO CONSIDER TEMPORARY OVERDRAFT:
Proposed by Councillor J. Leonard
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“That pursuant to Section 106 of the Local Government Act, 2001 and subject to the sanction of the Minister of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Sligo County Council hereby authorises the borrowing of a sum not exceeding €10m by way of short term loan and €3.5m by temporary overdraft for the period to 30th June, 2010”
In response to a query from Councillor D. Bree, Mr H. Kearns, County Manager stated that he would inform the Members at the April Meeting of the interest rate being charged on the proposed loan.
15. TO APPOINT ONE MEMBER TO EACH OF SLIGO GAOL, CARROWKEEL AND INISHMURRAY CONSERVATION PLAN STEERING GROUPS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“to appoint Councillor Gerard Mullaney as a Member of the Sligo Gaol Steering Group”
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“to appoint Councillor Gerry Murray as a Member of the Carrowkeel Steering Group”
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Leonard
AND AGREED
“to appoint Councillor Patsy Barry as a Member of the Inishmurray Steering Group”
16. TO FIX A DATE TO CONSIDER RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLAN:
The meeting agreed Monday 29th March, 2010 at 11am for a Special Meeting of the Council to consider the River Basin Management Plan
17. TO FIX A DATE FOR IDA AND ENTERPRISE IRELAND TO ADDRESS MEETING:
The meeting agreed the April Ordinary Meeting to be held on Monday 12th April, 2010 for IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland to address Members.
18. BROADBAND PRESENTATION BY SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT BOARD:
The meeting agreed to take this item at 2pm.
It was agreed that items 19, 22, 43, 49, 52, 54 be taken at this time.
19. REPAIR ROADS URGENTLY IN TUBBERCURRY AREA:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“As a result of the recent frost damage to roads in the Tubbercurry engineering area, I will ask if funds are in place to repair the regional roads in South Sligo, namely the R293, R294, R295 and the R296, also the local roads that now need urgent repair”
22. REPAIR OF ROADS IN BALLYMOTE AREA:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
“To call on Sligo County Council to allocate extra funding towards road maintenance in the Ballymote Electoral Area in light of the recent damage caused to our roads.”
43. ROADS FUNDING:
Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
“To ask the Director of Services to report on the implications of the severe reduction Sligo County Council’s Regional and Local Roads Grants allocation”
49. ROADS WORKS ON N59:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
“Ask the director of services to indicate what works will be carried out on N59 under 2010 Road Works Schemes.”
54. ROADS FUNDING:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“Following notification of the roads grant and the reduction in the allocation this Council calls on the Minister for Transport to make an application to Europe under the European Union Rural Development Fund for special funding to restore the roads that were severely damaged by the recent bad weather”
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“I would like to express my disappointment and dissatisfaction to the Minister for Transport, Mr. Noel Dempsey, at the recent announcement for the 2010 Regional and Local Road allocations.”
In response to the above motions, Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer stated the following:
The 2010 Non National Road Grant allocations from the Department of Transport is summarised as follows:
| Grant Type | 2010 Grant € | 2009 Grant € |
|---|---|---|
| Discretionary Maintenance | €1,432,000 | €830,000 |
| Restoration Maintenance | €1,685,000 | €2,386,000 |
| Discretionary Improvement | €0 | €351,000 |
| Restoration Improvement | €0 | €4,196,000 |
| Improvement Grant | €5,640,000 | €0 |
| Low cost Safety improvement | €180,000 | €265,000 |
| Specific Improvement | €838,000 | €2,126,200 |
| Local Improvement Schemes | €169,000 | €507,000 |
| Training Programmes | €44,699 | €44,699 |
| TOTALS | €9,988,699 | €10,706,899 |
The 2010 grant allocation of €9,988,699 represents a reduction of 6.7% on the 2009 allocation. The stated Department of Transport Policy in the 2010 grant allocation is the protection of the investment in the existing road network.
In this regard, the normal Restoration Improvement Grant and Discretionary Improvement Grant which totaled
€4,547,000 last year have been suspended and replaced by an ‘Improvement Grant’ of €5,640,000. In addition the Discretionary Maintenance grant which can be used for maintenance works including winter maintenance has been increased form €830,000 in 2009 to €1,432,000 in 2010. We are awaiting further details from the Department of Transport on their exact criteria on the expenditure of these grants but the Department has indicated that its overall criteria is that these grants be directed towards remedying road defects, road strengthening and drainage. The above increases are in the context of an overall grant reduction of 6.7% and are generally at the expense of the following:
- A reduction in Specific Improvement Grants from €2,126,200 to €838,000. This will result in several specific schemes being delayed or suspended.
- A reduction in the Restoration Maintenance Grant which is normally used for surface dressing from €2,386,000 to €1,685,000.
- A reduction in Local Improvement Scheme Grant allocation from €507,000 to €169,000.
The implications of the above grant allocations which were announced last week including the new grant categories are currently being assessed by the roads engineering staff. It is proposed that proposals for the 2010 Roads Programme will be considered at the various Area Meetings during March with a view to bringing a Roads Programme to the County Council for consideration at its April meeting.
The N59 Realignment Scheme at Ballygreighan has been allocated €90,000 by the NRA to bring that scheme to CPO stage and to carry out a program of site investigation.
It is hoped to carry out an overlay of the poor pavement at Templeboy and also to deal with a number of other failed sections of pavement along the whole route to the Co. Mayo border. These are being designed at present.
It was then,
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the Minister for Transport to suspend the NCT Testing until such time as proper funding is made available to restore the road network”
It was agreed that Item 10 be taken at this time.
10. SECTION 183 DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT CARROWNANTY, BALLYMOTE:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of a dwelling at Carrownanty, Ballymote, Co Sligo to Lisa Wetherald Wolfe Tone Street, Ballymote, Co. Sligo”
Mr Sean Purcell, CEO of County Sligo VEC and the Chairperson of the Economic Development Sub Committee of the County Development Board addressed the meeting and gave a brief outline on the importance of Broadband to County Sligo.
18. BROADBAND PRESENTATION BY SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT BOARD:
Mr Michael Barrett, Head of Modularisation at the Institute of Technology, Sligo gave a presentation to Members on Sligo’s broadband infrastructure and the current broadband coverage in County Sligo and outlined some of the difficulties that arise as a result of poor broadband coverage for Communities and Individuals. The Members thanked both Mr Purcell and Mr Barrett for the presentation. Following a general discussion,
It was
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the Government to buy back Eircom Infrastructure in order that it can be used to support the provision of Broadband services throughout the rural areas of the County”
20. WATER SERVICES COSTS DUE TO RECENT FREEZING WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin
“To ask the County Manager for a full and update report on the costs that this Council perceive to encounter in Water Services due to the recent weather conditions and furthermore, when all water will be restored to normal throughout the County”
In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineers stated the following:
Additional costs incurred to date by water services due to recent weather conditions are estimated at €250,000. Further costs will be incurred in ongoing leak detection and repair works as well as production costs associated with elevated demands on the distribution network.
Water supplies are currently being maintained on all public water schemes throughout the County. Reservoir storage levels are being maintained at acceptable levels throughout the public water supply system and therefore night time curtailment of supplies is limited to a couple of localised areas at present. This situation is being monitored on a continuous basis and will be subject to supply demands on the distribution network. It is anticipated that associated leak detection and repairs will be ongoing on the water distribution network for a further 2-3 months.
23. PROPOSALS FOR COUNCIL LANDS AT MULLAGHROE, GURTEEN:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
“To ask the Director of Services what proposals the Council have for the lands they own at Mullaghroe, Gurteen where derelict buildings were demolished”
In response, Ms P.R. Gallagher, Acting Director of Services stated the following:
Sligo County Council does not have proposals for this land at this time. Mr H. Kearns, County Manager indicated that there were no plans to build on these lands into the near future.
24. RE-OPEN PUBLIC TOILETS AT EASKEY PIER:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
“To call on Sligo County Council to provide funding to re-open the public toilets at Easkey Pier and to ensure the toilets are available for the busy surfing season and to examine the possibility of providing a caretaker for the toilets”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The toilet block at Easkey Castle had to be closed up due to vandalism. There are no funds available for any repairs and it is not proposed to reopen them. Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services indicated that there was simply no resources to maintain these facilities but if Members had proposals on other options then they could be considered. It was agreed that a meeting be arranged with the Local Community Group in Easkey the Elected Area Representatives and Council Officials to discuss same. Councillor M. Clarke asked for a progress report for the April Ordinary Meeting.
It was agreed to take item 25 and 31 together.
25. SECTION 59 ORDER ON HAZELWOOD HOUSE:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Lyons
“I ask this Council for an update on the Section 59 order relating to the repairs to the roof of Hazelwood house”
31. SECTION 59 ORDER ON HAZELWOOD HOUSE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor J. Devins
“That the County Manager provides the Council with a report outlining the Councils proposals to safeguard Hazelwood House which is listed as a Protected Structure, the report to include an update on the Notice issued under Section 59 of the Planning and Development Act, in respect of the structure”
In response to both motions, Mr H. Kearns, County Manager stated the following:
A revised Section 59 notice was served on the Developer on 26th November 2009. The period for complying with the notice expired on 22nd February 2010. An inspection is now to be carried out in relation to compliance. If the notice isn’t complied with, appropriate action will be considered. An update report will be prepared for the April meeting of the Council.
26. PRIORITISE REPAIR ON WATER SUPPLY IN BUNNINADDEN/ KILLAVIL/ GURTEEN AREA:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
“Consumers in the Bunninadden/Killavil/Gurteen areas are constantly experiencing breakdowns in the water supply due to leaks on the line. This Council has made an application under the water conservation programme to replace/renew defective pipelines and last year received funding under this programme. I am calling on Sligo County Council to prioritise this section for the next round of funding”
In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:
Stage 3 of the Sligo Water Conservation and Network Management Project involves the rehabilitation or replacement of defective water mains on the public water supply network. All water mains in the public network were assessed as part of this project and a prioritized schedule of mains rehabilitation works has been compiled and submitted to the Department for funding approval.
Phase 1 of the rehabilitation works proposal which relates to water mains on the Sligo and Environs water supply scheme has been approved by the Department and this phase is currently being advanced through planning and procurement procedures.
Phase 2 of the rehabilitation works proposal relates to water mains on the Lough Talt water supply scheme and includes the areas of Bunninadden, Killavil and Gurteen. The Council will advance phase 2 of the rehabilitation works pending approval from the Department and subject to approval of the necessary funding to meet the Council’s contribution to the cost of these works.
27. ADDRESS SPEED ON AIRPORT ROAD, STRANDHILL:
Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
“To ask the County Manager to immediately address the speed on the Airport Road, Strandhill”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The Area Engineer has examined this location and, in the absence of any funds to provide traffic calming here, will endeavour to enhance signage in the area so as to address the question of speeding cars.
28. JOB LOSSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That following the recent report on unemployment figures for County Sligo that this Council expresses its deep concerns at the number of job losses in the County and increase in the unemployment figure. Further that we call on the Minister for Trade and Employment to give priority to the establishment of a jobs strategy to include realistic retraining and back to education opportunities with the required support to tackle what is now becoming a crisis, taking into consideration the geographical challenges on the North West”
It was further,
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That the Council supports the Sligo VEC application to the Department of Education and Science for additional PLC places which will provide further educational opportunities to the increased number of young people who find themselves unemployed in the current recession”
29. PROVIDE SIGN FOR KNOCK AIRPORT AT COLLOONEY ROUNDABOUT:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
“To ask the Council to provide directional signage for Ireland West Airport Knock at Collooney, Co Sligo”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
It is considered that Knock is not an appropriate town to be signed from Sligo due to its distance etc and that anyone looking for Knock should be looking for the N17 to Galway. Given that Sligo Airport is closer to the Toberbride junction than Knock Airport, it was considered that signing Knock Airport (with the airport symbol) from here may give rise to driver confusion. Note that Knock Airport is signed southbound on the N17 from Tobercurry. It was agreed to discuss this further with the NRA Inspector on his next visit to Sligo.
30. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO SANCTION LOAN APPROVAL FOR STRANDHILL SEWAGE SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“That the Council calls on the Government and the Minister for the Environment to sanction loan approval for the upgrading of the Strandhill (Wastewater) Sewage Scheme as a matter of urgency.”
32. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO LEGISLATE “HEAD SHOPS”:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on the Government to introduce as a matter of urgency the necessary legislation for the strict regulation of what are termed “head shops” and the substances sold in these outlets”
33. PROGRESS REPORT ON LOUGH TALT WATER SUPPLY SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“I will ask the Director of Services for a report on the Lough Talt Water Supply Scheme, Lough Talt, Aclare, and if the project will start construction in the current year.”
In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:
The Lough Talt Water Supply Scheme is listed for upgrade on the current Water Services Investment Programme as published by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
The Preliminary Report for the scheme has been submitted to the Department for approval. The report recommends that the project be advanced in four phases, namely; a new water treatment plant; a new intake works; network improvements and an interconnector to the South Sligo water supply scheme.
The Council has commenced the Part 8 planning procedures for the new water treatment plant during 2009 and the consultation process with the prescribed bodies is currently ongoing. Pending Department approval of the Preliminary Report, approval of the necessary finance and completion of the required statutory procedures, it is anticipated that the procurement phase for the new water treatment plant will be advanced in the current year.
34. REQUEST THE HSE TO CLARIFY RE: SERVICES AT GURTEEN HEALTH CENTRE:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council contact the HSE to get a commitment that all services being provided at Gurteen Health centre will be retained into the future.”
35. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO GRANT AID RAINWATER HARVESTING:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
AND AGREED
“I will ask Sligo County Council to call on the Government to avoid future water shortages by grant aiding and making rainwater harvesting compulsory for all new build projects in the future.”
36. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW SELF-EMPLOYED ENTITLEMENTS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To request the Minister for Social & Family Affairs to review the entitlements of unemployed workers who have been self-employed and paying the relevant RSI contributions.”
37. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO ISSUE REPS PAYMENTS TO FARMERS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“In the light of dramatic decrease in farm incomes, this Council supports the call on the Minister for Agriculture to have all Reps Payments made to farmers as a matter of urgency.”
38. PROGRESS REPORT ON HOUSING ADAPTATION GRANTS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To request the Director of Services to provide a report on the Housing Adaption Grants, and propose that applications would be accepted from new applicants.”
In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:
Sligo County Council paid out a total of 233 grants under these schemes in 2009. The following is a break down including the expenditure in each grant category.
2009 Total number of Grants Paid Total Expenditure 2009
Disabled Person Grant 8 €34,972.50
Essential Repair Grant 4 €9,862.50
Housing Adaptation Grant 55 €321,078.75
Mobility Aids Grant 39 €144,653.75
Housing Aid for Older People Grant 127 €695,486.25
Total 233 €1,206,053.75
The allocation of the 233 required a Local Authority contribution of €247,185.75.
By year end 2009 the position in relation to applications not approved was as follows:
Housing aid for the elderly – 110 applications
Mobility Aids Housing Grant scheme – 10 applications
Housing adaption grants for people with disability – 50 applications. Additional applications are being accepted on all the grant schemes since early January. It is expected that an allocation will be announced in the coming weeks. It was agreed that this report be circulated to all Members.
39. REJECT FINDINGS OF IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE ON ONE-OFF HOUSING:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council would reject the recent findings of the Irish Planning Institute, who have cited the proliferation of one-off housing as a negative development, and a cause of decline in urban areas. That the Council would write to the Irish Planning Institute to highlight how such an anti rural housing policy totally contravenes the County Development Plan and would result the decline and de-population of rural areas, where there are many vibrant communities. The IPI do not take into account the poorly planned urban developments which took place over the last 5-10 years which will inevitably lead to social problems and ghettoisation in years to come."
40. PROGRESS REPORT ON BALLINACARROW WATER SUPPLY:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
"I call on Sligo County Council to provide me with an update as to when an upgrade of the water supply in Ballinacarrow. I have been contacted by countless people who complain that the mains water supply is switched off more often than it is on in Ballinacarrow, with houses being left without water for days on end. This is an unacceptable situation. The village needs a reliable and proper mains water supply as a matter of urgency."
In response, Mr. D. Harrison Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:
Drinking water is supplied to the Ballinacarrow area from the Lough Talt water supply scheme via the Ballymurry storage reservoir. As a result of extreme weather conditions over the Christmas period there was unprecedented demands on the public water supply system due to excessive leakage and wastage on the water distribution network. Reservoir storage levels in many areas throughout the county dropped significantly resulting in serious water shortages and interruptions to supply. This problem was further exacerbated by numerous frozen service connections which prevented the restoration of individual supplies until service pipes had defrosted.
Some individual properties located at high levels are particularly vulnerable when reservoir storage levels fall and consequential network pressures are reduced. Water supplies are currently being maintained on all public water schemes throughout the county however network pressures are also being impacted upon in some areas by the increased leakage on the system. Leak detection and repair works are ongoing at present and the Council will continue to monitor network pressures in the Ballinacarrow area.
41. REQUEST COILLTE TO COMMENCE TREE FELLING AT LADY’S BRAY ROAD:
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That this Council call on Coillte to give a commencement date when the felling of trees will take place on the north edge of the Lady’s Bray Road, as indicated almost a year ago.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
This matter is still being pursued by Coillte who have not yet got the required felling license from the Department of Agriculture. The matter is being actively pursued by the Area Engineer but it is not possible to give a commencement date at this time.
42. TAKE IN CHARGE ROAD AT CLOONGAD, CASTLEBALDWIN:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
“To ask the Director of Services, Mr. Tom Kilfeather to take in charge the road at Cloongad, Castlebaldwin, recently improved under a Local Improvements Scheme.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
This road at Cloongad has been improved recently under a Local Improvement Scheme but it is not proposed to declare it public at this time, due to the financial situation existing at present.
44. SPEED LIMIT SIGNS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY:
This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.
45. HOUSING CAPITAL SCHEME, 2010:
This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.
46. VAT LEGISLATION CONTAINED IN FINANCE BILL, 2010:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“What are the implications for the costs of services as a result off the proposed changes to VAT legislation contained in the finance Bill 2010.”
Members were circulated with Local Government Circular Letter Fin 02/2010 dated 5th February, 2010 entitled VAT on local authority services. Ms. M. Leydon, Head of Finance indicated that the implementation date was the 1st July, 2010 and that parking charges in the Borough was the most likely area this legislation would affect.
47. MAINTAIN ROAD SIGNAGE IN THE COUNTY:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
“To call on this Council to ensure that all road signs are maintained and repaired/replaced if necessary and that all tourist sites are clearly signposted e.g. no sign for Glencar Waterfall on N16 at Road Junction 0253.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
Road signs will continue to be maintained as best we can within the constraints of limited funding. In particular the Area Engineer will replace the missing sign for Glencar Waterfall as soon as possible.
48. PRIORITISE RURAL COTTAGES AND IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN LIEU UNDER 2010 HOUSING PROGRAMME:
This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.
50. STREET LIGHTING AND SEWERAGE IN BALLYGAWLEY VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
“To ask Sligo County Council to give me an update on what plan is available for street lighting and also the sewerage plan for Ballygawley village.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The provision of public lighting in Ballygawley can be included in your proposals for consideration at an Area Meeting prior to the adoption of the 2010 Road Works Scheme. However, funding for new public lighting is expected to be very low.
In response, Mr. D. Harrison Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:
The preliminary report for the Ballygawley Sewerage Scheme has been submitted to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government 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 from the Department and subject to approval of the necessary funding to meet the Council’s contribution to the cost of the scheme. The scheme has been included in the 2009 Needs Assessment report to advance as part of the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 - 2012. It is anticipated that this new investment programme will be published by the Department in the coming weeks.
51. PROVIDE FOOTPATH IN BALLINTOGHER VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
“To ask Sligo County Council to provide funding for a footpath from Ballintogher Village towards the townland of Athvalid, Ballintogher. It is approximately 300 meters as I was told it was coming out of 2010 funding.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
Funding for 300 metres of new footpath from Ballintogher towards Altvelid is unlikely to be provided in 2010.
53. LOCAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES CRITERIA:
Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
“To ask the Director of Services, Infrastructure if the criteria proposed for Pre-2007 Improvement Schemes, which now have to be resubmitted, will reflect the points acquired for the time on the waiting list.”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
The Regional and Local Roads Unit of the NRA have reminded us that “only applications received after January 2007, will be eligible for consideration for funding in 2010”, and the allocation of points will commence from the date of any new application, in accordance with the Council’s scheme. It was agreed to seek clarification from the NRA on Councillor Baker’s Motion.
It was then,
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“That we write to the Minister for Transport expressing the Council’s objection to the withdrawal of funds for L.I.S. Schemes applied for before 2007”
It was agreed to take Item 21.
21. LISADELL HOUSE:
Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“That Sligo County Council is given an up to date report on the High Court Case over alleged rights of way at the Lissadell Estate. Furthermore have the Courts indicated that this case will run for a period of six to eight weeks? If so, can the County Manager now firmly indicate to the Council, the estimated costs incurred by Sligo County Council in defence of this action”
In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:
The current position is that hearing the case resumed on 19th January 2010. Counsel for the Plaintiffs and Sligo County Council have indicated to the Court that they are of the view that the case will last about six weeks. It is difficult to give any accurate estimate of the costs incurred by the Council because much will depend on how long in fact the case runs, and its outcome. It is the nature of proceedings such as this that the level of costs will only be accurately determined after the case is finalised. Councillor D. Bree asked if transcripts of the case were available for viewing by Members. Clarification to be sought on this.
55. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to John & Helen O’Dowd on the death of Raymond O’Dowd.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Nancy Tempany on the death of her husband, Stephen Tempany.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to The Burke Family on the death of Aiden Burke.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Tony Farrell on the death of his mother, Dora Farrell.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael Doherty on the death of his father, Mikey Doherty.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Tony & Sadie Conlon on the death of Michael Peter Conlon.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Jim Taheny on the death of his wife, Elizabeth Taheny.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Sheila Reynolds on the death of her brother, Seamus Waldron.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Madeline O’Dowd and family on the death of her husband, Raymond O’Dowd.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Seamus Hunt on the death of his brother, Joe Hunt.”
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Don Dirrane on the death of his brother, Sean Dirrane.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Don Dirrane on the death of his brother, Sean Dirrane.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Donal Harrington on the death of his father, Michael Harrington.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Gilligan on the death of her husband, Michael Gilligan.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Paddy Gilligan on the death of his brother, Michael Gilligan.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Dennis Ross on the death of his mother, Mary Ross.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Brigid Johnson on the death of her son, Michael Johnson.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Ann McGowan on the death of her mother, Dora Farrell.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Noel Johnson on the death of his brother, Michael Johnson.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Caroline Collery on the death of her mother, Bernadette Kilcawley.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Noreen Gilligan on the death of her husband, Jack Gilligan.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Frank Brennan on the death of his mother, Mary Brennan.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Siobhan O’Dea on the death of her mother, Joan Dooney.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Dermot James on the death of his wife, Eileen James.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Pat Harte on the death of her son, George Harte.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Vincent Cullen and family on the death of his wife, Mary Cullen.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Joan Monaghan on the death of her father, Bobby Boyd.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Vincent Kilcawley and family on the death of his wife, Bernadette Kilcawley.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Ronnie Cawley on the death his mother, Kay Cawley.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mai Lambert on the death of her husband, Eugene Lambert.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Helen MacManus on the death of her brother, John McGovern.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
AND AGREED
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Eithne Flanagan on the death of her father, John McGovern.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Jimmy and Violet Lindsay on the death of Aean Lindsay.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Patricia Browne on the death of her father, Michael Doherty.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Charlie Farrell on the death of his mother, Dora Farrell.”
“that a vote of sympathy be extended to John Sherlock on the death of his mother, Gertrude Sherlock.”
56. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
AND AGREED
“that a vote of congratulations be extended to Patrick McGettrick on his nomination as guest of Honour at the Annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations of the County Sligo Association in New York”
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“that a vote of congratulations be extended to the Manager & Players of the Summerhill College GAA Team on reaching the Connacht Colleges Senior A Final.”
57. CONFERENCES:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“That the list of Conferences circulated for March at this meeting was unanimously approved”
58. CORRESPONDENCE:
Councillor M. Gormley expressed her disappointment at the reply received in relation to correspondence (t) Letter dated 19th February, 2010 from the NRA regarding funding to carry out safety works at Cashel Gates at Junction N17/430.
59. MATTERS ARISING:
There were no matters arising.
60. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
A Report prepared by the Arts Section of Sligo County Council was circulated to the meeting, which outlined the 13 no organisations who receive annual funding under F0502 – contributions to other bodies Arts Programme. The report provided a brief summary of each of the organisations 2009 activities and proposed 2010 events. The organisations were The Hawks Well Theatre, Blue Raincoat Theatre Company, Sligo Live Festival, The Model, Sligo International, Choral Festival, County Sligo Fleadh, Feis Shligigh, Sligo Feis Ceoil, Ballintogher, Traditional Festival, South Sligo Summer School, Coleman Traditional Festival, James Morrison Festival and the Paddy Killoran Festival.
END OF MEETING:
The meeting ended at 4.30pm.
Meeting Date 01/03/2010