Minutes 2011

Minutes of Adjourned May Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 16th May 2011 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 Healy McGowan, 
  • Councillor Keaney, 
  • Councillor Leonard, 
  • Councillor Lundy, 
  • Councillor MacManus, 
  • Councillor McGarry, 
  • Councillor McGrath, 
  • Councillor McLoughlin, 
  • Councillor Mullaney, 
  • Councillor Mulvey, 
  • Councillor Murray,
  • Councillor Queenan
     

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
  • Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms P. R. Gallagher, Acting Director of Services
  • Ms M. Leydon, Head of Finance
  • Ms D. Finnerty, Acting Director of Services
  • Ms M Davidescu, Acting Senior Executive Planner
  • Mr S. Ward, Acting Senior Executive Planner
  • Mr N. Ballantyne, Acting Executive Technician
  • Mr Fineen O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer
  • 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 J. Walsh, Housing Officer
  • Ms S. Ryan, Heritage Officer
  • Mr Barry Ward, Executive Planner
  • Mr P. McCarrick, Executive Planner
  • Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms M. McGovern, Clerical Officer
     

CATHAOIRLEACH:

  • The Cathaoirleach, Councillor J. Leonard presided.
The Cathaoirleach asked the members to deal with Item 12 first and then the meeting would proceed with the rest of the Agenda. 
 

12. THIRD MANAGER’S REPORT ON SUBMISSIONS AND OBSERVATIONS TO THE DRAFT SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2011-2017:
 

Draft County Development Plan 2011-2017

It was agreed by the members that resolutions only be proposed where changes are being made to the Manager’s recommendations.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 1:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 2:
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
“That we accept the Manager’s Recommendations in relation to Submission Number 2.”
 
Following further discussion and as agreement could not be reached, the Cathaoirleach called for a vote.
 
FOR: Barrett, Bree, Cawley, Fleming, Keaney, Leonard, McGrath, McLoughlin, Mullaney, Mulvey, Murray.
 
AGAINST: Barry, Clarke, Gormley, MacManus, McGarry, Queenan.
 
ABSTAIN: Collery
 
As the result was 11 For, 6 Against and 1 Abstention, the Cathaoirleach declared the motion passed.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 3:
Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That the Council accept the Manager’s Recommendations on Submission Number 3, Third Manager’s Report on the Draft CDP.”
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 4:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“To accept the Manager’s Recommendations in relation to Submission Number 4.”
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 5:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 6:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 7:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 8:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
SUBMISSION NUMBER 9:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 12:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 1, 4, 6,9:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 2:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That we adopt the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Submission Number 13 Issue 2.”
 
Councillor Gormley asked to be recorded as abstaining from this resolution.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 3:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That we adopt the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Submission Number 13 Issue 3.”
 
Councillor Gormley asked to be recorded as abstaining from this resolution.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 5:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That we adopt the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Submission Number 13 Issue 5.”
 
Councillor Gormley asked to be recorded as abstaining from this resolution.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 7:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That we adopt the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Submission Number 13 Issue 7.”
 
Councillor Gormley asked to be recorded as abstaining from this resolution.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 8:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That we adopt the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Submission Number 13 Issue 8.”
 
Councillor Gormley asked to be recorded as abstaining from this resolution.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 13, ISSUE NUMBER 10:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That we adopt the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Submission Number 13 Issue 10.”
 
Councillor Gormley asked to be recorded as abstaining from this resolution.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 14:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 15:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER 16:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
 
AND AGREED
 
“To accept the Manager’s Recommendations in relation to Submission Number 16.”
 

Draft Record of Protected Structures 2011-2017

Councillor M. Barrett excuses herself from the meeting for this Item.
 
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
 
AND AGREED
 
“To reject the Recommendations in the Third Manager’s Report in respect of the Draft Record of Protected Structures for the following Record of Protected Structure Item Numbers 54, 177, 223, 229, 231, P-8, P-33, Number 37, P-52, P-56, P-59, P-60, P-64, P-78,P-79, P-87, P-96, P-111, P-112, P-118, P-121, P-137, P-143 as they are  not considered worthy of inclusion in the Record of Protected Structures for reasons that include dereliction, loss of character and planning history, and to accept the Manager’s recommendation in respect of Item Numbers P-16, P- 27, P-41, P-68, P-69, P-142, P-150, P-153, and Number 176.”
 
Submissions Received Outside Public Consultation Periods
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER L-1:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER L-2:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER L-3:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER E-1:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER LL-1:
The members agreed with the Managers recommendations in relation to this submission.
 
SUBMISSION NUMBER LL-2:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
 
AND AGREED
 
“To adopt the Manager’s Recommendations Issue Number 3, Submission Number L-L-2.”
 
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“Having considered the proper planning and sustainable development of the area to which the Development Plan relates, the statutory obligations of the local authority and any relevant policies or objectives for the time being of the Government or any Minister of the Government and having considered the Draft Sligo County Development Plan 2011 – 2017, Environmental Report and the Third Manager’s Report, dated 4th April, 2011 on submissions or observations received under Section 12 (8) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) on amendments (material alterations) proposed to the Draft Sligo County Development Plan 2011 – 2017 and having considered the amendments it is hereby resolved to adopt the Sligo County Development Plan 2011 – 2017 and to make the Plan in accordance with Section 12(10)(a) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), subject to the Manager’s Report and modifications to the amendments, as proposed and adopted at this meeting. The proposed amendments to the Draft Development Plan dated 9th February, 2011 are adopted unless otherwise agreed at this meeting.”
 
The Cathaoirleach stated that preparing the development plan was a mammoth task and wanted to take this opportunity to acknowledge the work of the planning staff, technicians and administrative staff. Councillor Leonard also thanked the members for their important role in the adoption of the plan and hoped it would contribute to a better Sligo.
 

1. MINUTES OF THE APRIL ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON THE 4TH APRIL, 2011:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
 
AND AGREED
 
“To confirm the minutes of the April Ordinary Meeting held on the 4th April, 2011.”
 

2. MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE ELECTORAL AREA MEETING HELD ON 21ST FEBRUARY, 2011:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“To confirm the minutes of the Ballymote Electoral Area meeting held on the 21st February, 2011.”
 

3. MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE ELECTORAL AREA MEETING HELD ON 9TH DECEMBER, 2011:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
 
AND AGREED
 
“To confirm the minutes of the Ballymote Electoral Area meeting held on the 9th December, 2010.”
 

4. SECTION 11(1) OF ROADS ACT , 1993 – DECLARE ROADS TO BE PUBLIC ROADS AND TAKING IN CHARGE DEVELOPMENTS:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
 
AND AGREED
 
That Sligo County Council being satisfied of their general public utility declare the Roads named below to be Public Roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993. (copy attached)
 
Road NumberLocation and Terminal Points
L-61045-0 Development of 8 houses at the Green Road, Coolaney, Co. Sligo (off local Road L-61043-0)
L-18016-0 Development known as ‘Arrow Court’, Ballinafad, Co. Sligo
L-74287-0 From junction with the R286 in Kiltycahill, southwards for a distance of 462 metres with the branch A westwards, 45 metres west in Kiltycahill Housing estate

That Sligo County Council take in charge the following developments:
  • 8 Number houses at the Green Road, Coolaney, County Sligo.
  • Development known as ‘Arrow Court’, Ballinafad, County Sligo.
Councillor McGrath asked for clarification on other estates in Ballymote; ‘Highwood Park’, ‘Abhainn Mór’ and ‘Radharc na gCaislean.
 
Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated that reports have just been completed on these and the Council can proceed with the process of taking in charge of these estates if the members agree.
 
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That Sligo County council commence the process of taking in charge the estate known as ‘Highwood Park’, Collooney, Co. Sligo, by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the estate.”
 
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That Sligo County council commence the process of taking in charge the estates known as ‘Abhainn Mór’ and ‘Radharc na gCaislean’, Collooney, County Sligo, permitted under PL 04/1994, by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the estates.”
 

5. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 3 CANON VIEW, STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor A. McLoughlin
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 3 Cannon View, Strandhill to Pauline Fallon.”
 

6. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF DWELLING AT KNOCKNASKEAGH, GURTEEN:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of a dwelling at Knocknaskeagh, Gurteen, Co. Sligo to Peter Connolly.”
 

7. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF DWELLING AT SOOEY:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of a dwelling at Sooey, Co. Sligo to Katie Codd.”
 

8. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF DWELLING AT CARROWCASHEL, GEEVAGH:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of a dwelling at Carrowcashel, Geevagh, Co. Sligo to Keith McCabe and Frances Kelly.”
 
The Cathaoirleach requested the Leas Cathaoirleach to take the Chair for the next Item.
 
Councillor T. Collery proceeded to the Chair.
 

9. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL BY WAY OF LEASE LAND AT ST. MOLAISE PUBLIC PARK, GRANGE:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor V. Cawley
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal by way of lease 0.617Ha of land at St. Molaise Public Park, Barony of Carbury, Grange, Co. Sligo to North Sligo Playground Group Limited.”
 
Councillor Leonard asked to be recorded as dissenting from this resolution.
 
The Cathaoirleach resumed to Chair the meeting.
 

10. ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
 
AND AGREED
 
“To consider and note the Annual Financial Statement of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31st December 2010.”
 
Following a discussion by the members it was also:
 
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That this Council, recognising the grave financial position it finds itself in, requests the new Minister for the Environment to meet with an all party delegation of councillors to consider the critical financial position of the Council and to seek the advice and assistance of the Department of the Environment and Local Government in terms of resolving the crisis.”
 

11. AUTHORITISE OVER EXPENDITURE:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray
 
AND AGREED
 
“That pursuant to Section 104(7) of the Local Government Act 2001 Sligo County Council hereby authorises the over expenditure of €9,223,525 for the year ended 31st December, 2010.”
 

13. DRAFT DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTION SCHEME 2011-2017 (SCHEME A):

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
 
AND AGREED
 
“To note the proposal to put on public display the Draft Development Contribution Scheme 2011-2017 for the area within the County of Sligo and outside of the Sligo and Environs Area (Scheme A).”
 

14. DRAFT DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTION SCHEME 2011-2017 (SCHEME B):

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“To note the proposal to put on public display the Draft Development Contribution Scheme 2011-2017 for the Sligo and Environs Area (Scheme B).”
 

15. RURAL WATER ALLOCATIONS FOR 2011:

Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
 
AND AGREED
 
“To note the Rural Water Allocations for 2011.”
 

16. COMMUNITY HERITAGE GRANT SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve the Grant awards under the Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2011.”
 

17. COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY GRANTS SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy
 
AND AGREED
 
“To approve the Grant Awards under the Community and Voluntary Grants Scheme, 2011.”
 

18. TRAFFIC CALMING IN STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
 
“To ask the County Manager when will Sligo County Council finalise the proposed suitable traffic calming option at the promenade in Strandhill and further to the current investigations to also look at a more suitable option at the bottom end of the promenade, than the red/white bollards.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The Area Engineer is examining the possibility of providing a traffic calming ramp as one enters the car park and will explore the replacement of the red and white barriers with something more acceptable and permanent.
 

19. PRESERVATION OF NATURAL SHELF AT STRANDHILL BEACH:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry
 
“To ask the Director of Services; due to the harsh winter weather conditions, Strandhill beach has retained a lot of stone and a natural shelf has evolved on the western end of the walkway path, I would ask Sligo County Council to clear off as much of the stone and to preserve and enhance the natural shelf as an extension of the walk way.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The bulk of the sand at Strandhill has been washed off the shore, by violent winter storm /waves/seas and into deeper water forming off-shore sand bars, thus exposing the underlining cobble and rock basement. This can happen during a few days of violent storms and high tides. There is nothing the County Council can do about this. This process is a regular occurrence at Strandhill, but is more extreme this year than in the recent past (i.e. last decade). Usually the sand is re-deposited on the beach in non-stormy conditions; however the recovery may take many months.
 
The Council is aware of the ‘natural shelf/berm’ at the southern end of the existing coastal path, which may be a transient feature. The County Council will monitor this area to assess it natural behaviour, before considering artificial enhancement, should funds be made available, in the future.”
 

20. BEND AT CARROWNACREEVY, BELTRA:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Leonard
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to seek funding to remove the dangerous bend at Carrownacreevy (AJs Bar) Beltra on the N59.” 
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
Any proposed removal of this bend would be very costly and unlikely to attract funding at this time.
 

21. PROTECTION FOR BUNOWNA ROAD AGAINST SEA EROSION:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to take action and provide protection for the Bunowna Road from sea erosion accruing there.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The Bunowna Road will be examined by the Area Engineer in order to assess the nature of the problem there and to consider a solution to it.
 

22. CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR SURFING IN STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
 
“To ask the County Manager to support the development of a centre of excellence for surfing in Strandhill.”
 
In response, Ms D. Finnerty, A/Director of Servicesstated the following:
 
Sligo County Council’s commitment to surfing at Strandhill is ongoing and is visibly demonstrated through the development and ongoing support of the Maritime Centre, a public building which currently provides surfing facilities.
 
Currently, Sligo County Council Community and Enterprise Section is engaged with a range of local interest groups and Failte Ireland in relation to a proposal to consider development of surfing facilities at Strandhill. Clarification is required by all involved in the early developmental stage in relation to the definition of a ‘centre of excellence’ – nature of the facilities, site suitability etc. This is informing the on-going dialogue, at present.
 
Such clarification would be important in determining the potential cost involved in the delivery of any such development. In addition, precise details in relation to a potential management structure would be a necessary prerequisite of any such venture. In this context Sligo County Council will take a collaborative approach between the local community and all interest groups in this project.
 
It should be noted that the potential applicant to the Failte Ireland Capital Investment Fund may be the Local Authority which would have to provide matching funding in relation to this project at 25% of the project cost. This represents a significant capital outlay and there is no provision in the 2011 estimates for such expenditure. In this case clarification is required from Failte Ireland, as the potential funding agency, in relation to potential alternative funding mechanisms in respect of this project.  
 

23. DUMPING THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery
 
“To ask Sligo County Council what plans are in place to address the increased dumping being carried out at both public and private locations in the County.”
 
In response, Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Servicesstated the following:
 
Sligo County Council employs a Litter Warden, based in the Environmental Services Section. The Litter Wardens main duty is the enforcement of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997 as amended. This legislation covers all illegal dumping offences on public property or on private lands visible from a public place. Routine and non- routine inspections are carried out on a daily basis and if evidence is retrieved, appropriate enforcement procedures are followed, which may result in the issuing of on-the –spot fines or court proceedings.
 
Clean-up of illegal dumping that occurs on public property is carried out by Sligo County Council. 
 
However, should dumping occur on private property, it is up to the registered owner to clean it up. Section 9 Notices may also be issued to private property owners under the Litter Pollution Act, 1997 as amended, requiring them to clean up the site and take the necessary preventative measures to keep the site free from illegal dumping.
 

24. FUTURE OF TWO TEACHER SCHOOLS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
 
AND AGREED
 
“That this Council supports the save our small schools committee which has been set up due to the uncertainty that exists regarding the future of two teacher schools and we call on the Minister for Education, Mr Ruairi Quinn T.D to clarify the position that no school in County Sligo will close.”
 

25. DOUBLE YELLOW LINES AT BALLYMOTE COMMUNITY NURSING HOME:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to provide double yellow lines at the entrance to the Ballymote Community Nursing Home/Cuan Íosa, in the interest of safety.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
This location will be examined by the Area Engineer who will report on what measures he considers necessary to improve safety here.”
 

26. FOOTPATH ON R293 ON COLLOONEY SIDE OF BALLYMOTE:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to clean up footpath on the R293 approximately one mile long on the Collooney side of Ballymote.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The matter will be examined by the Area Engineer with a view to making the area safe to walk on – viz weed spraying, some tidying up etc.
 

27. AMENITY SIGNS FOR STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
“That this Council erects amenity signs for Strandhill at appropriate locations.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
This matter should be discussed in detail at the next Sligo/Strandhill Electoral Area Meeting so as to examine type of signage and exact possible locations for consideration, subject to the current difficult financial circumstances.
 

28. REVIEW LEGISLATION WITH REGARD TO TRESPASSING ON PRIVATE LANDS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
 
AND AGREED
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to ask the Minister for Justice to review the legislation with regard to the trespassing of individuals and dogs over lands and private property with regard to the security of the landowner and their livestock and property.”
 

29. DAMAGED WALL AT ENTRANCE TO THE ORITARY CHURCH, BALLISODARE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to repair the damaged wall along the road at the entrance to the Oritary Church in Ballisodare.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
This wall will be examined by the Area Engineer to see what action, if any, is appropriate here.
 

30. LINE OF SIGHT EXITING FROM ROAD L-6801:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to make safe the line of sight towards Coolaney village for motorists exiting from Road L-6801.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The sightlines here will be examined by the Area Engineer to see if verge cutting or some such small improvement will suffice.”
 

31. PIPES AT REAR OF VEC, BUNOWNA, EASKEY:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to fit drainage pipes along the road at the rear of the VEC at Bunowna, Easkey, Co. Sligo to stop the rainwater going into residents gardens after heavy rain fall.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The Area Engineer will prepare a report and estimate on this matter for further consideration.
 

32. AFFORDABLE HOUSING SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to 1) provide a report on all shared ownership properties (Affordable Housing Scheme)   2) to have the scheme revised to allow tenants to buy out the balance of the property at the current market value.” 
 
In response, Ms D. Finnerty, A/Director of Servicesstated the following:
 
The Shared Ownership and the Affordable Housing Schemes are two separate schemes which differ in a number of features.
 
The Shared Ownership scheme operates to allow a person to purchase their home in more than one stage. This is achieved by the Local Authority initially purchasing a property and the applicant then taking a loan from the Local Authority to finance their share which must be at least 40% of the purchase price.In respect of the balance which is retained as equity by the Local Authority, the applicant must pay what is termed as a ‘rent’ for this and must purchase this from the Local Authority in full within 30 years.
 
The Affordable Housing Scheme on the other hand provides for the realisation of ownership in one single tranche of properties which are made available to applicants at a price below the prevailing market value.
 
Both of these are National schemes whereby the terms are decided by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
 
Following further discussion by the members it was:
 
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“To call on Sligo County Council to ask the Minister for Housing to review the Shared Ownership Scheme to allow tenants to buy out their houses at the current market value.”
 

33. REGISTER OF ELECTORS:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
 
“That this Council should explore the possibility of working in co-operation with An Post in updating the Register of Electors”
 
In response, Mr F. MacNabb, Meetings Administratorstated the following:
 
The Council have been in contact with the Department regarding the Register of Electors. A government commission is currently being set up to look at the current process for compiling the register. The Council will continue with the current method while awaiting the outcome of the commission’s work.
 
It was agreed to take Items 34 and 40 together.
 

34. REFUSE BINS IN BALLISODARE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
 
“That this council take measures to ensure that the refuse bins in Ballisodare village are emptied twice weekly in the interest of public health”
 

40. MAINTAINING STREET AND BINS IN COLLOONEY AND BALLISODARE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor P. McGrath
 
“To ask Sligo County Council to provide a council worker from 1st July for 1–day a week in Collooney and Ballisodare area to maintain the streets and empty the bins”
 
These refuse bins in Ballisodare will be examined by the Area Engineer with a view to ensuring that the existing service proves to be adequate by way of more frequent checking. 
 
Every effort is being made to ensure that Collooney and Ballisodare are kept tidy and that bins are emptied.
 

35. PEACE III GRANTS ALLOCATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
 
AND AGREED
 
“Noting that in the recently circulated list of PEACE III grants allocated in County Sligo, reference is made to
  1. a grant of €100,700 being paid to a group called “MH Consultancy” for a “Women’s project”;
  2. a grant of €103,460 being paid to a group called “Peace by Peace” for “Conflict/mediation training” ;
  3. a grant of €70,000 being paid to Sligo County Council for what is described as a “Programme of Events”;
it is resolved that further information be provided to the Council regarding the” MH Consultancy Group” and the “Peace by Peace Group” and their particular projects and that the Council also be advised as to the “Programme of Events” which the Councils €70,000 Peace grant was used for.”
 

36. UNIVERSAL SOCIAL CHARGE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
 
AND AGREED
 
“Recognising that the Universal Social Charge is an unjust tax, this Council calls on the new Government to abolish the charge.” 
 

37. UPGRADING OF STRANDHILL SEWAGE SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
 
AND AGREED
 
“That the Council requests the new Minister for the Environment to sanction loan approval for the upgrading of the Strandhill (Wastewater) Sewage Scheme as a matter of urgency”
 
In response to queries from the members Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services, stated that there was a change in funding options for certain schemes and the Council is awaiting approval from the department for the revised budget for this scheme. The contract for this and other schemes needs to be signed before the end of 2011 if the County Council are to avail of the new funding option. 
 

38. JUNCTION OF THE N17/294 JUNCTION CIRCULAR ROAD, TUBBERCURRY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
 
“I am calling on Sligo County Council to take action in the interest of safety at the junction of the N17/294 junction Circular road in Tubbercurry where people exiting out onto the regional road are unable to see traffic coming from the town side (left hand side) because of over grown hedge.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole,  Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
The Area Engineer is in the process of securing the cooperation of the householder here so as to have the hedge either lowered or removed.
 

39. FUNDING TO IMPROVE BALLINA ROAD (R294), TUBBERCURRY:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
 
“I will ask the Director of Services if funding is available or can be applied for in 2011 to improve the Ballina road (R294), Tubbercurry from the town to St. Attracta’s School, in the interest of public safety.”
 
In response, Mr. S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
 
Additional funding for Regional and Local Road Restoration Improvement has recently been received and the R294 from St. Attracta’s School towards Tubbercurry is one of the extra schemes to be carried out in 2011. 
 

41. WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT FOR BUNNINADDEN:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
 
“To ask the Director of Services when work will commence on the long awaited new waste water treatment plant for Bunninadden.”
 
In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineerstated the following:
 
The planning process for the upgrade of Bunninadden waste water treatment plant has been completed and we are currently progressing the procurement phase for this project. It is anticipated that a contract will be awarded during Q3 2011 and construction will commence shortly thereafter pending completion of necessary contract formalities. The commissioning of the new plant should therefore take place during Q2 2012.
 

42. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Brennan on the death of her husband, Paddy Brennan.”
 
Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor A. McLoughlin
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Josephine Kelly on the death of her sister, Fiona McDonnell.”
 
Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Harry Keaney on the death of his uncle, Paddy Conlon.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Padraig Scanlon on the death of his uncle, Vincent Scanlon.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Maureen Collery on the death of her brother, Hugh McHugh.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Annie Flynn on the death of her husband, Paddy Flynn.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary & Seamus Haran on the death of Sile Cahill.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to James McDaniel on the death of his brother, Patrick McDaniel.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Noreen Lennane on the death of her husband, P.J. Lennane.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Deirdre Reilly on the death of her husband, Tony Reilly.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Brennan on the death of her husband, Paddy Brennan.”
 
Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Declan and Kathleen Feeney on the death of John James Brady.”
 

43. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Fidelma Loughlin on the birth of a new baby girl.”
 
Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
 
AND AGREED
 
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Patricia Henry on winning the Sligo Rose of Tralee title on Sunday 8th May and wish her well on representing Sligo in the Regional Finals in Portlaoise over the June Bank holiday weekend.” 
 

44. CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett
 
AND AGREED
 
“That the list of Conferences circulated for May at this meeting was unanimously approved”
 

45. CORRESPONDENCE:

Proposed by Councillor J. Leonard
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming
 
AND AGREED
 
“To note correspondence circulated with the Agenda”
 

46. MATTERS ARISING:

There were no matters arising.
 

47. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Councillor M. Gormley asked for an update on a light in Mountain View, Tubbercurry which she raised at the April meeting. Councillor Gormley’s request was noted and the Council would be in contact re same.  
 
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus
 
AND AGREED
 
“That the following Item: ‘Consideration of Nomination for election as President’ be placed on the agenda for the June monthly meeting of the Council.”
 

END OF MEETING:

The meeting ended at 3.30pm
 

Meeting Date 16/05/2011