Minutes 2010

Minutes of May Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 24th May 2010 in Council Chamber 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 Henry,
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 H. Kearns, County Manager
Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services
Ms P. R. Gallagher, A/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
Ms M. McDonagh, Public Arts Officer
Mr C. Calleary, Veterinary Inspector
Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray presided.

1. MINUTES OF THE APRIL ADJOURNED ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 19TH APRIL, 2010:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the April Adjourned Ordinary Meeting held on the 19th April, 2010”.

2. MINUTES OF THE APRIL ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 12TH APRIL, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the April Ordinary Meeting held on 12th April, 2010”

3. MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 29TH MARCH 2010:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Special Meeting held on 29th March, 2010

4. MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL TUBBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 28TH JANUARY, 2010:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Special Electoral Area Meeting held on 28th January, 2010

5. MINUTES OF THE TUBBERCURRY AREA MEETING HELD ON 4TH DECEMBER, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Tubbercurry Electoral Area Meeting held on 4th December, 2009

6. SECTION 183 DISPOSAL OF DWELLING BY WAY OF LEASE AT TEELING ST. 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 known as Old Cinema Building, Teeling St., Ballymote by way of a 25 year lease to Ballymote Community Enterprises”

Mr J. Murphy Senior Executive Officer informed the meeting that the question of including the Old Cinema Building in the list of Protected Structures could be dealt with when the Council is considering the Draft County Development Plan.

7. TRANSFER OF SPECIFIED LANDS BY WAY OF A LICENCE AT WOODBROOK HEIGHTS, BALLISODARE, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the transfer of specified lands by way of a licence to Woodbrook Heights Residents Association for an amenity enhancement project for a period of 6 years”

8. PART 8 PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF COASTAL PROTECTION WORKS IN STRANDHILL:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in accordance with Part 8 (Article 81) of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 (as amended by the Planning and Development Regulations, 2006) proceed with the provision of a demountable dwelling, septic tank, percolation area, and all associated site development works at Doonmadden Td, Templeboy, Co. Sligo”

9. PART 8 PROPOSED WATER TREATMENT PLANT FOR LOUGH TALT REGIONAL WATER SUPPLY SCHEME, GORTERSLUIN, TOBERCURRY, CO. SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Part 8 (Article 81) of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 (as amended by the Planning and Development Regulations, 2006) the proposed construction of Water Treatment Plant for the Lough Talt Regional Water Supply Scheme at Gortersluin, Tobercurry, Co. Sligo”

10. GRANTS UNDER THE CONSERVATION OF PROTECTED STRUCTURES GRANT SCHEME, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath

AND AGREED

“To approve the Grant awards under the Conservation of Protected Structures Grant Scheme 2010”

11. GRANTS UNDER THE COMMUNITY HERITAGE GRANT SCHEME, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“To approve the Grant awards under the Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2010”

12. GRANTS UNDER THE COMMUNITY & VOLUNTARY GRANTS SCHEME, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

“To approve the Grant Awards under the Community & Voluntary Grants Scheme, 2010

13. DRAFT CHARLESTOWN-BELLAGHY LOCAL AREA PLAN:

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

AND AGREED

“Following consideration of the Draft Charlestown-Bellaghy Local Area Plan, the proposed amendments and the Manager’s Report dated March 2010 on the submissions received in respect of material amendments to the Draft Plan, Strategic Environmental Assessment and Habitats Directive Assessment, Sligo County Council hereby decides to make the Charlestown-Bellaghy Local Area Plan in accordance with the recommendations set out in the Manager’s Report, as provided by Section 20(3)(d) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)”

14. RURAL WATER ALLOCATION, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To note the Rural Water Allocation for 2010”

15. TO FIX A DATE FOR A SPECIAL MEETING TO CONSIDER DRAFT SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2011-2017:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Ordinary June Meeting of the Council to be held on 14th June, 2010 be fixed for 10 am and that a Special Meeting to consider the Draft Sligo County Development Plan 2011-2017 be held on the 31st May, 2010 at 11 am, the Agenda to include any deferred motions from the meeting of 24th may, 2010 (today’s meeting)”

It was agreed that item 16, 18 and 63 be taken together.

16. SOCIAL HOUSING INVESTMENT PROGRAMME, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughllin
Seconded by Councillor M. Lyons

“To ask for an update on the Housing Capital Scheme for 2010.”

18. SOCIAL HOUSING INVESTMENT PROGRAMME, 2010:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Government to abandon the policy of long term leasing houses for Social Housing rather than buying them and that where the Council is buying a number of homes in a development that they be scattered randomly throughout the development rather than clustered together”

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

The allocation made by the Department for the main Capital works programme has been reduced from the €7 million to €3.11 million. This figure will only allow for the completion of current schemes under construction, rural houses and the purchase of houses for specific/special need. There is no provision for any new housing developments in 2010. The Department has explained that the reduction in the Capital Programme will be an on-going trend for the foreseeable further. Two areas will be looked at by Local Authorities to deliver on Housing provision. Given the large number of vacant houses and estates throughout the country the uses of more RAS contracts and Long Term Leasing arrangements will be used to reduce the housing waiting list.

Sligo County Council are currently in the process of sourcing houses with the intention of providing long term leasing contracts and this will prove beneficial to applicants seeking accommodation in areas of high priority.

Following further discussion by the Members, it was

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council contact the Minister of State, Michael Finneran with a clear recommendation that his Department abandon its current policy of leasing houses for accommodating those on the social housing list and instead initiate a policy of house purchasing in the current deflated housing market which would provide better use of taxpayer’s monies”

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That a deputation from Sligo County Council meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran TD to request urgent funding for the purchase of houses on the open market as a matter of urgency and further that funding be provided for Connolly Park, Tubbercurry”

It was agreed that the Cathaoirleach would be included in the deputation to the Minister, together with the following:

Proposed by Councillor Bree
Seconded by Councillor Gormley

AND AGREED

“That Councillor S. MacManus be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor Baker
Seconded by Councillor Barry

AND AGREED

“That Councillor R. O’Grady be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor Collery
Seconded by Councillor Mullaney

AND AGREED

“That Councillor T. McLoughlin be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“That Councillor M. Fleming be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor Bree
Seconded by Councillor McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“That Councillor M. Gormley be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor McGrath
Seconded by Councillor O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That Councillor V. Cawley be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor Barry
Seconded by Councillor Clarke

AND AGREED

“That Councillor M. Baker be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor McGrath

AND AGREED

“That Councillor M. Barrett be included on the deputation to meet with the Minister for Housing, Michael Finneran”

Proposed by Councillor M. Lyons
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to bring forward a rent to buy scheme to allow first time house buyers to rent for 5 years and then purchase the house discounting the market value of the house by the amount of rent paid”

63. SOCIAL HOUSING INVESTMENT PROGRAMME, 2010:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“To note Department Circular and Report on Social Housing Investment Programme 2010”

17. SPEED LIMIT SIGNS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY:

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

“To ask the Director of Services to investigate the inconsistency in Speed limit signage in areas throughout the County.”

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

The general speed limit on our Regional and Local roads was reduced from 100km/hr to 80km/hr a few years ago. However, some stretches of Regional Road in rural areas have a 60km/hr speed limit because of poor alignment etc, such that one sometimes drives from a 60km/hr zone on a Regional Road into the general speed limit of 80km/hr on the Local Road. This is however quite logical and is as recommended by DOEHLG.

19. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE AGRI ENVIRONMENT SCHEME OBJECTIVES BENEFIT FARM FAMILIES:

Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That this Council call on the Agriculture and Environment Ministers to ensure that the proposed new Agri-Environment Scheme Objectives, of which include the addressing of specific challenges including

Climate Change,
Renewable Energies
Water Management and biodiversity will be of benefit to farmers and support the sustainability of farm families”

20. TO REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO REVERSE DECISION ON CENTRALISATION OF MEDICAL CARDS:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

21. ILLEGAL DUMPING IN SOUTH SLIGO & ENCOURAGING USE OF RECYCLING CENTRE AT TUBBERCURRY:

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

“In view of the very serious issue regarding illegal dumping on local and bog roads in south Sligo what action can the Council take to prevent this and encourage more people to use the recycling centre in Tubbercurry”

Mr F. MacNabb in the absence of Acting Senior Engineer Environment stated the following:

I refer to the notice of motion submitted by Councillor Lundy. A Litter Warden has been appointed since 29th March 2010 and is now working hard to catch these offenders. However we have no Environmental Awareness Officer at present, therefore we are relying on the local communities to play an active part in the prevention of this type of illegal activity and in encouraging recycling.

In response to Members, Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services stated that there were no resources available for weekend work or overtime to clean up littered areas and that extra bins would not be provided as it could encourage further dumping.

22. TO REQUEST THE IDA TO CONSIDER TUBBERCURRY AS INDUSTRY LOCATION:

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

AND AGREED

“As County Sligo is being prioritised for foreign direct investment I will ask this Council to call on the I.D.A.to consider Tubbercurry as a primary location for industry and the creation of much needed jobs”

23. PROPOSED WORKS ON THE N17 AND BY-PASS OF TUBBERCURRY:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for a report on works to be undertaken in the current year on the N17 and when its expected work will commence on the long awaited by-pass of Tubbercurry”

In response, Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer stated the following:

The following works have been allocated funding for this year on the N17:

The realignment of the junction of the N17 and Road L1602 South of Ballinacarrow - €50,000 allocation. Design currently underway.
Widening of two bridges North of Curry – at Carrowwilkin and Carrowghoge. - €400,000.
Pavement repairs will also be carried out along the N17 funded from the NP pavement allocations.

CPO and EIS documentation with respect to the N17 Tubbercurry Bypass has been issued to the NRA. However, so far, no date has been given as to when approval will be given to publish the CPO and EIS for this scheme.

Following discussion it was;

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the National Roads Authority to allow publication of the compulsory purchase order and the Environmental Impact Statement for the N17 Tubbercurry Bypass Scheme”

It was agreed that items 24 and 73 be taken together.

24. WESTERN RAIL CORRIDOR:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on the Collooney to Claremorris Railway line:

What action is being taken by the Council to promote this project?
What co-operation is there between Sligo and Mayo Councils?
To ask the Minister for an up to date report.”

73. WESTERN RAIL CORRIDOR:

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

“That Sligo County Council supports the campaign to open the Western Rail Corridor and survey the feasibility of construction a green way along the track”

In response, Mr H. Kearns County Manager stated that Sligo County Council had no direct involvement with this project and was politically represented by 5 Members on the Western Inter-County Railway Committee and that these matters should be taken up with the Committee in the first instance. He further stated that in relation to the feasibility of constructing a greenway, while Sligo County Council had no budget for this, the Council would assist in whatever way possible and suggested that Fáilte Ireland could be approached on the matter.

Following further discussion, it was

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the Department and the Minister of Transport to request them to include the Collooney to Loughrea Western Rail Project as one to be completed project and to provide a report on the issue”

25. PROVIDE HIGH QUALITY WATER TO NORTH SLIGO:

In relation to the official opening of the new Kilsellagh Water Treatment Plant, it was

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

AND AGREED

“That the official opening of the Killsellagh Reservoir be performed by the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council and that this Council also invites the Minister for the Environment, Mr John Gormley to attend”

Proposed by Councillor M. Lyons
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

“To ask Sligo County Council (Water Section) that in view of the very serious situation with regard to the supply, quality and pressure of water throughout the North Sligo area, what action is being taken to provide a proper supply of high quality water to all the residents of North Sligo”

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

The North Water Supply Scheme was included in the 2009 Needs Assessment report by the Council to advance as part of the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 - 2012. The scheme has not been included in the programme recently published by the Department, however, the Department has indicated that the scheme will be reconsidered as part of the annual review process. The Brief for the appointment of consultants on the scheme has been submitted to the Department for approval. The brief recommends a comprehensive review of all aspects of water supply on the north Sligo scheme.

Ongoing burst repairs as a consequence of recent extreme weather conditions has resulted in some localised interruptions to supply and water quality issues in recent weeks which are being resolved as quickly as possible. The Council is continuing to carry out minor upgrade works and scheduled maintenance on the scheme in order to improve water supply generally.

26. REQUEST THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT AND BRITISH IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM TO RETURN HISTORIC BANNER TO IRELAND:

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

AND AGREED

“Aware that an historic banner belonging to Na Fianna Eireann is located in the British Imperial War Museum in London, and aware that the said banner was seized by British forces from the Dublin home of Countess Markievicz in the aftermath of the 1916 Rising, this Council calls on the British Government and the British Imperial War Museum to return the banner to Ireland and further we request the Taoiseach Mr Brian Cowen T.D. and the Director of the National Museum of Ireland Dr. Pat Wallace to contact the British authorities with a view to having the Banner returned to Ireland at the soonest possible time.”

27. REQUEST THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT AND BRITISH IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM TO RETURN HISTORIC BANNER TO IRELAND:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council contacts the Imperial War Museum, London seeking the repatriation of a ‘Na Fianna Eireann’ banner seized by British Crown forces during the weeks following the Easter Rising, 1916. Further, that as Countess Markievicz was the founder of Na Fianna Eireann that consideration would be given to placing this historic item on display in Sligo to coincide with the centenary celebrations of the 1916 Rising”

28. REQUEST COMMUNITY NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION BE EXEMPT FROM WATER CHARGES:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

29. REPORT ON SHEEP KILL AT RIVERSTOWN:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Environment for a report on a sheep kill at Drumederalena on 10th march, 2010 and a subsequent attack on the 26th March, 2010 and the actions taken by Sligo County Council thereafter”

In response, Mr C. Calleary, Veterinary Inspector stated the following:

On the 10th of March the Dog Warden received a report of a sheep kill in Riverstown. They investigated the incident but there was no evidence of what dogs were involved. On Friday the 26th of March the Dog Warden service received a further call regarding sheep being chased in the same area. The 2 Wardens immediately made their way to the house and were told that 2 black Alsatians were in a field adjacent to the sheep. They were informed that the sheep were chased but none were injured. They conducted an extensive cross country search in the area over a two hour period but were unable to catch site of the dogs. They were then informed that a member of the family was at the dwelling of a neighbouring family whose dogs were not at home. They made their way to this house where they were told that that there were two dogs missing, an Alsatian and a Labrador. These dogs returned and following discussions one of the family members indicated that the Wardens could take both dogs but only signed the surrender form for the Alsatian as he stated that the Labrador belonged to another family member. Both dogs were removed by the Wardens with the Alsatian having been surrendered and the Labrador taken pending discussions with the other family member who owned the dog. It was hoped that this dog would be signed over also. Both dogs were brought to the shelter at Drumcliffe at approximately 5pm. The owner of the second dog arrived at the shelter just as the Wardens arrived back. She indicated that she would pay whatever damages/costs were due but under no circumstances would she sign the dog over. The Warden contacted the Veterinary Officer who indicated that the matter should be left over the Weekend and that the case would be reviewed on Monday. Pending this both dogs were to be kept at the shelter.

On Monday Morning the wardens and the Veterinary Officer reviewed the case. A call was also received from a solicitor acting for the dog owners querying the basis on which the dogs were being held and seeking the release of both dogs. On reviewing all the facts it was obvious that the Alsatian had been signed over to the Council and was also a restricted breed under the Control of Dog regulations 1998. On this basis it was decided that this dog would be euthanized. The Labrador however was not signed over and the owner had indicated that she would not contemplate doing so. The Control of Dogs Act, 1986 does not give a Local Authority the power to automatically put down dogs suspected of being involved in sheep worrying. The owner must first be convicted under section 9 of the Act and then section 22 gives the Court the discretion to order the dog to be kept under proper control or to be put down. There was no evidence linking the dogs to the first incident and there was some doubt over the breeds involved in the second incident given that the initial report was of 2 Alsatians. The Wardens didn’t see the dogs worrying sheep at any time despite an extensive 2 hour search. Given all this it was felt that there would not be sufficient evidence for a conviction if a case was brought to court. It was decided that an on the spot fine would be issued for not having the dog under control and kennel fees would also be levied. This decision was communicated to the owner who immediately came to the shelter to pay the fine and kennel fees and collect the dog. The decision was also communicated to the Flock owner. The Alsatian was euthanized that day.

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager thanked the Dog Wardens for their hard work throughout the County and insisted that the laws were not strong enough and dog licence fees should be increased to reflect the more dangerous breeds.

30. REQUEST BUS ÉIREANN TO RE-ROUTE BUS SERVICE THROUGH BALLINAFAD VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Bus Éireann to re-route the day bus service through Ballinafad Village in the interest of public safety”

31. REQUEST BUS EIREANN TO PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORT WHERE SERVICES ARE DISCONNECTED:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

32. REDUCE WATER CHARGES/PROVIDE A SUBSIDY TO COMMUNITY CENTRES:

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

“Recognising the financial difficulties facing the management of many Community Centres, this Council agrees to either

reduce the cost of the water being supplied to community centres or
provide a subsidy to assist Management Boards of Community Centres to cover the costs of water services”

In response, Mr H. Kearns, County Manager stated that Staff in Water Services were always willing to engage with any Customer who has queries on their Water Charges. In many of these cases, the bills relating to community centres should be minimal and leakage was the main problem. Grants are available under the Community and Voluntary Grants Scheme for Community based projects.

33. PROBLEMS WITH EASKEY SEWERAGE SYSTEM:

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

“To ask the Director of Services to indicate why the sewerage system in Easkey Village is not working properly”

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

The issue on the Easkey sewerage scheme relates to the malfunction of a private pumping station on a private development in the village. The Council has engaged with the developer and upgrade works have been carried out to by the developer to rectify the problem. Proposals regarding the taking in charge of this development are ongoing and the Council is currently awaiting the submission of documentation from the developer.

34. HOUSING AID SCHEME FOR THE ELDERLY:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Housing to make the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly a priority in 2010”

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

For 2010 Sligo County Council received an allocation of €1,218,750 of which €243,750 is to be provided from the revenue resources of Sligo County Council. It is a matter for each authority to decide how their allocation is apportioned between the three grant schemes having regard to local circumstances. Having regard to the high level of demand and the finite resources which are currently available Sligo County Council are working to ensure that funds target essential works only. Applications are prioritised on the basis of medical needs of the applicants. The following is the priority;

Priority 1: Terminally ill or mainly dependent on family or a carer, or where alterations/adaptations would facilitate the discharge from hospital or alleviate hospitalization in the future.

Priority 2: Mobile, but needs assistance in accessing facilities, or where, without the adaptation the disabled persons’ ability to function independently would be hindered.

Priority 3: The applicant is independent, but requires special facilities to improve their quality of life, e.g. Separate bedroom or living space.

At present Sligo County Council has the following number of applications

Mobility aid grants – 19
Housing adaption grant for people with a disability – 49
Housing aid for older people grant – 155

A number of these grants date back to 2008 and work has commenced to assess and prioritise these older applications. Inspections are also being completed on those applications that have been prioritised. As the Members have previously prioritised Mobility aid grants and Housing adaption grant for people with a disability these applications are also being progressed at present.

35. COST OF UPGRADING ROAD NETWORK:

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

“To ask the County Manager to indicate is the cost of upgrading the road network much cheaper than in 2008”

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

Tenders for strengthening works on the road network have not yet been fully examined. While some of the rates may be lower than 2008, it is expected that this will be yet another difficult year financially, with our main emphasis being on the maintenance of full employment with much reduced road grants from central government.

36. REQUEST GOVERNMENT AND HSE TO CANCER PATIENTS AT SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

“To request the Minister for Health and the H S E to honour their promise to breast cancer patients that mammogram services would be provided at Sligo General Hospital as usual”

37. TAKE IN CHARGE FLOWERHILL ESTATE, BUNNINADDEN:

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

“To ask the Director of Services are there any plans to take in charge Flowerhill Estate, Bunninadden and what is the progress on provision of a sewerage treatment plant”

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

There are no plans to take this estate in charge as this development has not been completed to the satisfaction of the Council. An Enforcement Notice was served on the developer on the 25th June 2009 requiring the carrying out of certain works. These works have not been carried out to date. The matter has now been referred to the Council’s Law Agent to initiate legal proceedings against the developer for his failure to comply with the Enforcement Notice.

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

The Part 8 planning notice for the upgrade of Bunannaddan wastewater treatment plant was published on the 28th April 2010. Pending planning approval and the confirmation of funding under the rural water programme, it is anticipated that detailed design and procurement of the scheme will be advanced in the current year.

Mr F. MacNabb, Meetings Administrator informed the meeting that under Standing Orders (no. 18), ‘A motion to revoke or amend a resolution of the Council can only be made on notice inserted in the Agenda, and such notice shall specify the resolution to be revoked or amended and furnish the terms of the motion to be made; but no such motion shall be allowed to appear on the Agenda to revoke or amend any resolution or substantially similar resolution of Council within six months of the date of the adoption of such resolution except with the written assent of not less than six Councillors………’

38. REVOKE DECISION RE: MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION OF NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ROADS IN THE BOROUGH OF SLIGO:

The meeting agreed to defer the item.

39. TAKE OVER BALLYGAWLEY AND SOOEY WATER SCHEMES:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

“To ask Sligo County Council as to when they intend to take over the Ballygawley and Sooey water scheme. Could they also give an indication as to what cost will be put on household use and also agriculture taping”

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

An application for the take over of Ballygawley group water scheme has been received by the Council. The finalisation of this process will be subject to the completion of outstanding administration issues by the group scheme and the confirmation of funding under the rural water programme. Following take over of the group water scheme, standard non-domestic water charges will apply in accordance with national policy, e.g. the volumetric charge for water in Sligo is currently €1.26 per cubic meter.

40. PROVIDE FUNDING FOR PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT SOOEY NATIONAL SCHOOL:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide funding for a pedestrian crossing at Sooey National School, Co. Sligo”

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

There are no funds available for the provision of a pedestrian crossing at Sooey National School, but our Road Design Office will examine its feasibility.

41. LIAISE WITH IARNRÓD ÉIREANN RE: WIDENING OF ROAD AT RAILWAY CROSSING ON ROAD 311 COOLANEY TO TEMPLEHOUSE ROAD:

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

“I call on Sligo County Council to work in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann to recommence work on widening the road at the Railway Crossing on Road 311 Coolaney to Templehouse Road. Iarnród Éireann have stated that they will consider a formal request from the relevant Local Authority, so I would ask the Council to make contact with Iarnród Éireann as a matter of urgency. This road services three new housing estates as well as pedestrians and other users”

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

This matter will be examined by the Area Engineer in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann staff so as to further pursue the matter. If funding can be identified then a formal request to Iarnrod Eireann can be made.

42. PROVIDE FOOTPATH FROM COOLANEY TO ROCKFIELD:

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

“I am calling on Sligo County Council to provide a footpath from Coolaney to Rockfield. A footpath is provided on both sides of the road up to the cemetery. In the interests of Health and Safety, given the amount of pedestrians using this road which services the National School and Church, it is vital that this essential piece of infrastructure would be provided”

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

A new footpath here would be desirable and this can be included in your proposals for footpath improvements at the next Dromore West Electoral Area Meeting.

The Area Engineer will prepare an estimate for the work in the meantime. However, funding for this type of work in the current year is likely to be reduced.

43. PROPOSED WORK START AT JUNCTION ON N17, SOMMERTON, BALLINACARROW:

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

“I call on Sligo County Council to indicate a timeframe on when work at the Junction on the N17 at Sommerton, Ballinacarrow will commence in light of the recent NRA allocation of €50,000 for remedial works to be carried out at this highly dangerous junction, and that Sligo County Council would ensure that this funding is ring-fenced for this project only”

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

This work is now complete apart from the erection of a crash barrier and this is imminent.

44. UPDATE ON EXTENSION OF BURIAL GROUNDS AT MOUNTIRWIN AND COURT ABBEY:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for the up-to-date position on the extension of the burial grounds at Mountirwin and Court Abbey”

Mr F. MacNabb in the absence of the Director of Services, Environment stated the following:

Sligo County Council has been unable to secure approval from the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government to raise a loan for burial ground improvements and extensions.

In relation to Court Abbey Burial Ground extension, Sligo County Council had identified a potential site, however, this site was situated within an identified Zone of Archaeological Protection (ZAP) and the Department requested that an alternative site be located. Efforts are ongoing to secure an alternative site.

In relation to Mount Irwin Burial Ground, Sligo County Council has engaged with the local community in trying to identify and secure an alternative site for a burial ground extension.

45. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO REVERSE DECISION ON SPECIAL NEEDS ASSISTANTS IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To request the Minister for Education to reverse the government decision to reduce the number of Special Needs Assistants in our primary schools”

46. TAKE IN CHARGE DROMORE WEST/ CANNAGHANALLY GROUP WATER SCHEME:

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

“That this Council take in charge the Dromore West/Laghanally Group Water Scheme”

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

An application for the take over of Cannaghanally group water scheme has been received by the Council. The Council will consider the scheme for takeover subject to the allocation of funding by the Department under the rural water programme 2011.

47. PROPOSED PROGRAMME OF WORKS ON PEARSE ROAD IN 2010/2011:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

48. REQUEST THE COMMENCEMENT OF WORKS AT STRANDHILL WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

49. COUNTY COUNCIL FINANCE LOANS:

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

“That the Council be provided with a list of all current loans raised by the County Council and the terms of each, the list of principal sums owing and a list of the annual instalments relating to same.”

In response, Mr H. Kearns, County Manager indicated that the Annual Financial Statement would be brought before the Members shortly and it was hoped that this detail could be provided with same.

50. REQUEST FUNDING FOR TUBBERUCRRY ROADS:

Proposed in the names of the following; Councillor M. Fleming/G. Murray
Seconded in the names of the following; Councillor M. Gormley/ J. Lundy

“That an allocation of Class II and Class III funding be requested for roads in the Tubbercurry Electoral Area to maintain infrastructure in rural areas”

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

Road Grants have already been received for 2010 and there is no funding for Class II and Class III roads as in previous years. A letter will be sent to the Department seeking funding, as requested.

52. TAKE IN CHARGE SANDY COVE HOUSING ESTATE, STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

“To request Sligo County Council to take in charge Sandy Cove Housing Estate in Strandhill.”

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

This development of 25 houses is substantially completed. There are 2 issues outstanding:

non compliance with condition 8 (b) and f9 (J) of PL 03/685
Ongoing maintenance of sewerage pumping station.

Notwithstanding the above, the Council would welcome an application from this developer to have the estate taken in charge.

53. PROGRESS THE NEXT PHASE OF THE WESTERN DISTRIBUTOR ROAD:

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

“Given the importance of developing our road infrastructure to attract inward investment, and to facilitate access to IDA lands at Oakfield, to request the Council to progress the next phase of the Western Distributor Road”

In response, Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer stated the following:

Progress on the Western Distributor Road Phase 2 is ongoing. The Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) drawings and documentation are currently being finalised. The CPO will be published in June of this year. It is expected that An Bord Pleanála will make a decision on the CPO before the end of 2010. If funding becomes available, the Council will be in a position to commence works on Phase 2 in 2011.

51. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT ENTRANCE TO BRIDGE STREET:

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

“To ask the Director of Services that the pedestrian crossing at the entrance to Bridge street from Connaughton Road be changed to Traffic Light System”

In response, Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer stated the following:

At the Junction of Lake Isle Road/ Stephen Street/The Mall, the movement of Traffic and Pedestrians is controlled by means of a Zebra Crossing. Traffic calming measures in the form of ramps have also been installed in order to control the speed of traffic. Zebra crossings rely on drivers giving way to pedestrians. They cause little delay to traffic or pedestrians and are used in areas where visibility is good, traffic speeds are low, and where the Carriageway width does not exceed 7m in Width. This control system has worked very well at this location since it was installed. Currently there are no proposals to redesign or upgrade the control systems at this Junction.

54. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PROGRESS THE SLIGO SCHEMES UNDER WATER SERVICES INVESTMENT PROGRAMME 2010-2012:

It was agreed that item 54 and 72 be taken together.

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“To ask the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to progress as a matter of urgency the Sligo schemes identified in the Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012: Ballinacarrow, Cliffoney, Grange/Strandhill/ Tubbercurry , Lough Talt, Sligo & Environs and Water Conservation Works”

72. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT FOR UPDATE ON SLIGO SCHEMES UNDER WATER SERVICES INVESTMENT PROGRAMME 2010-2012:

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

AND AGREED

“To request an update on progress of proposed upgrading of Tubbercurry Sewage Treatment Plant and to call on the Minister for the Environment to allocate the necessary funding as a matter of urgency”

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

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.

The scheme has been included in the new Water Services Investment Programme 2010 – 2012 as published by the Department recently. The Council are currently awaiting clarification from the Department in relation to the new funding arrangements for the project. We will maintain regular contact with the Department on the matter in order to progress this particular scheme which has been highlighted as a priority for this Council.

55. REQUEST THE HSE RE PROGRESS ON PROPOSED EXTENSION TO HEALTH CENTRE IN TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the HSE to indicate what progress is been made on the extension and improvement to the Health Centre in Tubbercurry; what are the proposals and when is it expected work will commence?”

56. GREEN AREA AT WOODBROOK HEIGHTS, BALLISODARE:

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

“To ask the Director of Housing at the next meeting of the Council for an update on the green area at Woodbrook Heights Ballisodare”

This motion was previously dealt with under Item 7 of this Meeting.

57. TAKE IN CHARGE ROAD IN UPPER ROSSES POINT:

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

“That Sligo County Council starts the necessary procedure to take in charge a road at Upper Rosses Point, Co. Sligo. This road, which serves nine households, is the first road to the right as you travel from County Sligo Golf Club towards the R.C. Church”

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

This road will be examined by the Area Engineer to see if it is feasible to have this road considered for take over.

58. REQUEST THE HSE TO EXTEND DENTAL SERVICES TO ALL SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to demand from the HSE that dental care be extended to all Secondary School Students”

59. DETAILED REPORT ON WATER CHARGES:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to produce a detailed report on water charges;

What amount of money is owed to the council
What amount has been collected
What is the Council’s long term strategy
To call on the Council to consider introducing an amnesty for overdue accounts”

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

At the end of the 2009 financial year, 31/12/09, an amount of €3,364,803 was outstanding in water charges to the Council. The amount outstanding represented a modest decrease of €36,000 on the comparative arrears figure at the end of 2008. Nevertheless this modest reduction in arrears in a year in which the council’s overall receipts from most sources was significantly reduced was a very welcome development. However the level of arrears is unacceptable. The amount of water charges outstanding at any one time represents approximately 1 years charges. Since the commencement of the Governments national Water Pricing Policy Framework in 2006 the total amount collected is just under €8,500,000. The current number of active accounts for Sligo is 6,515.

The Council’s long term strategy would include the following:

Control costs of delivering the water and waste water Programme. As the Council is required to recover the costs of delivering the programme the interests of our customers will be best served by continuing to control costs to the best of our ability. This is difficult given that new Infrastructure delivered across the county and planned for in the new WSIP must be paid for and subsequently operated to the highest standards but at a significant cost. In the last 10 years over €100M worth of infrastructure has been delivered in the Water and Wastewater programme in this county. Nevertheless we have reduced our water charges in each of the last 2 years.
Continue the work been undertaken as part of the County Sligo Sustainable Water Project under the guidance of Dr Tom Curran UCD working with our customers in all sectors: domestic, farmers, educational and business to develop proposals for sustainable water supply and consumption systems for domestic, farm and business use. The hoped for outcome is reduced usage and thereby cost savings.
Continue to progress mains rehabilitation works under the water Conservation project. The outcome will be a reduction in the levels of UFW (unaccounted for water).

Finally with regard to a policy on overdue accounts the Council is required to account for its income on an accrued basis i.e. our accounts reflect the amounts billed to our non-domestic customers. We are very happy to work with our customers, to offer advice on means of reducing consumption of water. In the case of overdue accounts on which we will be renewing our focus in the coming months through a publicity campaign and much greater debt collection efforts we will engage with all customers and where there is a problem with leakage and where the customer has dealt with the leakage issue we are always disposed to reviewing the account having regard to the leakage issue. Any efforts by customers to bring their accounts to a satisfactory situation will be considered.

The meeting agreed that Mr Kilfeather’s report be circulated to all Members.

56. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Evelyn Staunton on the death of her daughter Enda”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Martina Higgins on the death of her husband John”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Murphy on the death of her brother, Sean McManus”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Evelyn Moffitt on the death of her brother, Padraig Kilcoyne”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Margaret Finan on the death of her brother, Seamus Conlon”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Shelagh Creavan on the death of her father, James”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Eoin McNamee on the death of his Mother, Joan”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Siobhan Terry on the death of her Mother, Kay”

That a vote of sympathy be extended to Monica Kilgallon on the death of her brother, Michael Cawley”

That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ella Bates on the death of her brother, Anthony McCarthy”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paddy Dunleavy on the death of his Wife, Peggy”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Peter Brady on the death of his grandson, Jack Brady”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Edward James on the death of his Mother, Maureen”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Finan on the death of her brother, Seamus Conlon”

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mattie & Margaret Brennan on the death of Margaret’s brother, John Higgins”

57. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to the Teacher and Pupils of Kilmactranny National School, Boyle, Co. Sligo on their recent Green Flag Award”

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to John Tighe, Church Road, Ballymote on his U-18 All Ireland Boxing Champion Title on 22nd May, 2010”

The meeting agreed to defer Items 60-62, 64-71, 74-83 to the Special Meeting set for Monday 31st May, 2010.

END OF MEETING:

The meeting ended at 4.50pm.

Meeting Date 24/05/2010