Minutes 2015

Minutes of January Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 12th January, 2015 At 11.00am In The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo

COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

Councillor Baker,
Councillor Bree,
Councillor Casserly,
Councillor Clarke,
Councillor Gormley,
Councillor Healy,
Councillor Keaney,
Councillor Kilgannon,
Councillor Lundy,
Councillor Maguire,
Councillor MacManus,
Councillor Mac Sharry,
Councillor Mulvey,
Councillor O’Boyle,
Councillor O’Grady,
Councillor Queenan,
Councillor Scanlon,
Councillor Taylor.

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

Mr Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive (CE)
Mr Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services (DOS)
Ms Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services (DOS)
Ms Marie Leydon, Head of Finance (HOF)
Ms Margaret McConnell, Acting/ Director of Services (A/DOS)
Mr Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer (SE)
Mr Fineen O’Driscoll, Acting/Senior Engineer (A/SE)
Mr John Owens, Senior Executive Engineer (SEE)
Mr Seamus O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer (SEE)
Mr John Moran, Senior Executive Officer (SEO)
Mr John O’Hara, Assistant Architect (AA)
Mr Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
Ms Marian McGovern, Clerical Officer (CO)

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Joe Queenan presided.

1. MINUTES OF DECEMBER MEETING HELD ON 1ST DECEMBER 2014:

Councillor Maguire proposed an amendment to the Minutes under Item 59 whereby it would be included that the relevant SPC would revert back to the members on the issue of waste charges.

The meeting Agreed and it was then;

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the December Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 2nd December, 2014.”

2. MINUTES OF BUDGET MEETING HELD ON 24TH NOVEMBER, 2014:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the Annual Budget Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 24^th November, 2014.”

3. DECLARE ROADS PUBLIC:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council being satisfied of their general public utility declare the following roads as public roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993.

Road No. Location and Terminal Points

L-35042-0 Road situate in the development of 3 houses known as ‘Killaspugbrone’ at Strandhill.

L-75053-0 Road situate in Phase 1 of the development known as ‘Waterside Lane’ at Strandhill.

That Sligo County Council take in charge the following developments:

Housing estate known as ‘Killaspugbrone’ at Strandhill, Co. Sligo
Housing estate known as ‘Waterside Lane’ at Strandhill, Co. Sligo.”

4. TAKING IN CHARGE – NEWTON PARK, KEASH:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor E. Scanlon

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge the development known as ‘Newtown Park’ at Keash Road, Ballymote, Co. Sligo, by instigating the necessary procedures under section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the development.

5. SECTION 183 – MULLAGHROE, GURTEEN:

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

AND AGREED

“Notice is hereby given to dispose of lands at Mullaghroe, Gurteen, Co Sligo in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001.

9. PRESENTATION - NATIONAL BROADBAND PLAN:

The Cathaoirleach asked the meeting that it take Item 9 at this point which was a presentation by Mr. Sean Griffin, Assistant Principal from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on the National Broadband Plan.

The meeting agreed.

Following the presentation the Cathaoirleach, Councillor Queenan thanked Mr. Griffin for his presentation. In response to queries from the members Mr. Griffin stated the following;

The areas marked blue on the map displayed are where commercial companies have undertaken to provide broadband by the end of 2016.
The Department are currently considering issues relating to ownership of the infrastructure which will need to be put in place, whether to regionalise the service, public consultation and the tender process, opening a line of dialogue with the EU as the Government seeks approval for this project and the issue of affordability for the consumer.
The estimated cost of delivering the project would be in the hundreds of millions.
The Department sees all areas with a low service in broadband as a priority.
Recent announcements from Eircom and the ESB see them committing to rolling out fibreoptic broadband in over 100 towns combined.

The CE, Mr. Hayes thanked Mr. Griffin for the presentation and his detailed responses to members queries. He said this discussion has given a realistic view of the complexity of delivering a project of this scale.

6. NOMINATIONS TO SPCS:

Mr. Moran, SEO gives an overview of expressions of interest so far to the SPCs. There are still a number of members who have to submit their preference.

Councillor Bree proposes that those who have submitted their preference be nominated to the relevant SPC and those who have not been assigned to an SPC. Councillor O’Grady indicated that she would second this proposal.

The Cathaoirleach ruled that he would defer this Item until after lunch giving members an opportunity to submit their preference.

The meeting agreed to this.

7. FINANCIAL PLAN:

The CE, Mr. Hayes outlined the 10-Year Financial Plan which had been circulated to the members.

The Cathaoirleach indicated that if the meeting was agreeable he would deal with Councillor Bree’s motion at this time also.

Therefore it was;

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“Noting that the Assistant General Secretary of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government in correspondence to the Council dated 11^th November 2014 pointed out that the Council had been incurring revenue deficits in its budget over the 6 years period (2008-2013) and that the cumulative revenue debt now stands at €19.67 million with the long term debt in excess of €120 million; and noting that the former Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Mr Phil Hogan, and his senior officials approved all the loans, borrowings and overdraft increases of the Council; and further noting that the newly elected County Council elected in May 2014 was not responsible for previous budgets, loans, borrowing and overdrafts; this Council now appeals to the new Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to provide Sligo County Council with the necessary financial assistance (bailout) to allow the Council to return to financial sustainability; and further the Council again requests the Minister to meet a deputation from the Council.”

Mr. Hayes advised that any deputation meeting with the Minister should be uniform in agreement on the Council’s financial plan, as submitted to the Department before Christmas. Also, if members had any alternative suggestions that these be discussed before any meeting with the Minister.

The CE confirmed that the Department had not delivered any response to the plan submitted.

Following further discussion by the members the Cathaoirleach advised that if the Minister agreed to meet a deputation from Sligo County Council that an agenda would be formed for the meeting and that the deputation would meet in advance of any meeting with the Minister.

Mr. Hayes indicated that there were various stakeholders involved in this process and it would be a delicate balancing act to keep all sides in agreement through the course of the plan.

Having regard to the discussion and the requirement for the deputation to meet in advance to agree a uniform position, the Council agreed the motion as proposed by Councillor Bree, seconded by Councillor MacManus.

8. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the November 2014 Monthly Management Report.”

10. CATTLE PRICES:

With the agreement of the meeting this Item was deferred.

11. MCFIBRIS HOUSE:

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

“That this Council would offer for sale, the apartment block known as McFibris House, Pier Road, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo and purchase and build a number of houses in the Enniscrone area. This is in accordance with the Government thinking that it is entirely appropriate that the disposal of one state asset should finance a different state asset which meets an urgent need.”

In response Ms. McConnell, A/DOS stated the following;

The units in question, 7 no, (6x1beds and 1x2 bed), were acquired for social housing purposes under Part V of the Planning & Development Act 2000, as amended, in 2010. They are located in a mixed development, are of a good standard, can be accessed by lift, have parking facilities and are central to services and amenities.

The units have been occupied since purchase and meet a need of single persons over a range of ages in the catchment area. The Council has not experienced any difficulty with vacancies at this location and 6 out of the 7 units are currently occupied. The one vacant unit has been offered to a proposed tenant.

The proposal that these units be sold is not one that has ever been considered by the Coucil given that they are occupied and provide homes for 7 households. Their retention is justified given the need that they meet which is sustainable having considered the current need in the area and the supply of appropriate alternative social housing available in the area.

12. UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY:

With the agreement of the meeting this Item was deferred.

13. TELEPHONE ALLOWANCE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on Central Government to reintroduce the telephone allowance to the home care package and to increase the fuel allowance to €35 euro.”

14. PUBLIC SERVICE EMBARGO:

Proposed by Councillor T. Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to immediately lift the public service embargo.”

Councillor Mulvey asked for it to be recorded that the embargo has been lifted in some areas such as Garda recruitment and certain Civil Service departments.

The Meeting adjourned for lunch at 1.05pm.

The Meeting resumed at 2.10pm.

15. PARKING BYE-LAWS:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“That the Council review it’s Parking Bye Laws for the Sligo urban area and as part of the review the Council consider amending the Bye Laws so as to regulate parking in the Mail Coach Road/Weighbridge area.”

In response Mr. Kilfeather, DOS stated the following;

The issue of the regulation of parking in the Mail Coach Road /Weighbridge Area will be considered in the next review of Parking Bye Laws in the Sligo Urban Area.

16. BALLYMOTE CINEMA:

With the agreement of the meeting this Item was deferred.

It was agreed to take Item 20 at this time.

20. DANGEROUS JUNCTIONS ON N59:

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

“That this Council will take the necessary steps to advance a scheme to build a new road on the N59 from Junction L6702 Carrigens to Junction L2402 Owenbeg, a 2km stretch of highly dangerous road, and to provide a report to this Council, including design plans, costs, correspondence with the NRA and timescale of when works are to be carried out.”

In response Mr. Brennan, SE stated the following;

On foot of representations from Sligo County Council we have received notification from the NRA Pavement and Minor Improvement section to investigate a pavement overlay scheme in this area. The road design section in conjunction with the NRA will develop this scheme with a view to carrying out construction in the current year.

Mr. Brennan added that the N59 was currently being re-assessed and any major scheme would be very expensive. The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Queenan asked that Mr. Brennan would revert back to the Municipal District meeting with the response from the NRA.

17. MAMMOGRAPHY SERVICES:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Health, Mr. Leo Varadkar, to clarify the situation regarding the return of mammography services at Sligo Regional Hospital, thus informing the people once and for all if and when this service will be re-instated.”

Councillor O’Grady informed the meeting that since raising this motion it has been confirmed that mammography services will not be reinstated at Sligo General.

Councillor Mulvey indicated he would propose a motion inviting the HSE to attend a meeting of the Council and explain the reasons behind this decision. Councillor Maguire indicated she would second this motion. Following further discussion Councillor Mulvey agreed to withdraw his motion but indicated that he was also very disappointed with the decision to withdraw this service.

18. MAMMOGRAPHY MACHINE:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

“That Sligo County Council seek an update from the Minister for Health on the provosion of a new mammography machine for Sligo Regional Hospital.”

Again Councillor O’Grady is mindful that this motion may be too late but calls on the members to support her motion further down the agenda calling for a new Cardio Catherisation laboratory for Sligo General Hospital.

19. HOUSING GRANT SCHEMES:

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

“That Sligo County Council call on Central Government to provide increased funding to the Housing Aid for Older People and Housing Aid for People with Disabilities grant schemes for the coming year.”

In response Ms. McConnell, A/DOS stated the following;

SCC was approved for a total Grant allocation of €656,689 (100%) in 2014. This amount was fully drawn down from the Department. This figure was sufficient to deal with all applications on hand, and received, in 2014. There were a small no of grants applicants who sought a deferral or who were not in a position to proceed with the grant offer. These may opt to proceed in 2015. Apart from those all grants on hand are cleared.

As notified to Councillors earlier this month the grant scheme has now reopened for 2015 with no closing date, as per ad which appeared in the Sligo Champion, and on the website on January 6^th. The position that the council is in now is that effectively the allocation to be notified for 2015, while still awaited, will be available to cover fresh applicants.

Ms. McConnell also clarified that any applications currently deferred are so at the request of the applicant.

21. COOLANEY ROAD JUNCTION ON N17:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor E. Scanlon

“That the Council in conjunction with the NRA take the necessary steps to address the safety issue that motorists have when turning right off the N17 onto the Coolaney Rd (Road No 1) where a number of accidents have occurred the most recent about two weeks ago”

In response Mr. Brennan, SE stated the following;

A preliminary investigation of accident records from 2009 to 2012 at this location do not show any injury accidents. On foot of this motion, the road design section in conjunction with the NRA will investigate if there are more recent accidents, both material and injury, and their nature. On investigation of the accident statistics, solutions will be developed as appropriate and put to the NRA for funding.

22. DANGEROUS JUNCTIONS ON N17:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

“To call on Sligo County Council and the NRA to make safe the 2 junctions on the N17 at Carrntavy, Templehouse, Ballinacarrow following yet another accident recently.”

In response Mr. Brennan, SE stated the following;

23. ORGAN DONOR CARDS:

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo Council to do all in its power to promote and encourage people to carry Organ Donor cards.”

It was agreed to arrange a photo call involving the members to promote this scheme.

24. REPAIRS TO R290:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“To ask Sligo County Council to call on the Department of the Environment to make funding available for essential repairs & improvements to the R290 which runs from Ballygawley to Ballintogher.”

In response Mr. Brennan, SE stated the following;

The Regional Road R290 will receive funding along with all regional roads. However, funding levels in recent years have been low. Specific works can be discussed at Municipal Area Meetings in due course.

Mr. Brennan indicated that members of the Road Design Team would be happy to meet with local committees to discuss signage.

25. SOCIAL HOUSING IN JOHNSTON COURT:

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

“That the Council be provided with an up to date report in regard to the 6 apartments in the Johnston Court development which are to be provided for social housing; and further that the file containing the correspondence between the developer/promoter and the Council be made available for inspection by councillors.”

In response Ms. McConnell, A/DOS stated the following;

Further to detailed report outlined at the December meeting of the Council members may recall that the delay in the transfer of the 6 units from the developer to the Approved Housing Body(AHB) is emanating from the fact that there are a number of technical and legal issues raised by the solicitor for the approved housing body, to which they have not yet advised that they have received satisfactory response to, which would allow them progress to purchase the units. Correspondence has passed between the Council and the council’s solicitor and the Council and the AHB in the mean time seeking progress. The council is aware that responses have issued from the solicitor for the developer to the solicitor for the AHB which are currently being considered by the solicitor for the AHB. It is a matter for the solicitor for the AHB to satisfy itself that the response to the o/s matters are sufficient and adequate.

In a parallel effort to assist that the matter gets progressed and resolved the Council solicitor has proposed that solicitors for the 3 parties involved would meet to discuss and to work through resolving the issues and has made contact with them on this basis.

The file containing correspondence in relation to this matter is available to any councillor to view as required by making arrangements with myself.

Mc McConnell added that the Housing Department are also disappointed with the delay in securing these units and confirms that funding will be available when issues around the purchase of same are resolved.

It was agreed to take Items 26 and 31 together.

26. HOLY FAMILY NS, TUBBERCURRY:

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

“I will ask for a report on the transfer of lands from Sligo County Council to the Holy Family National School, Tubbercurry for a car park and set-down area in the interest of health and safety.”

31. SAFETY MEASURES AT HOLY FAMILY NS, TUBBERCURRY:

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

“That we the members of Sligo Co Council be provided with a report as to the progress on the transfer of lands owned by the HSE at Holy Family N.S Tubbercurry for the provision of a setdown/parking area to enable children be dropped off in safety. In the meantime that the Council give favourable consideration to the provision of flashing reduce speed lights warning motorists to reduce their speed at this location in the interest of the safety of the children and road users.”

In response Ms. Clarke, DOS stated the following;

In relation to the site above, the initial transaction involves the exchange of properties between the HSE and the County Council. The transfer or swap of land between SCC and HSE is with our legal people to finalise. The Council has to be the legal owners of the site before any subsequent disposal or transfer can take place.

When the Council has ownership of the site there must then be an agreement entered into between the school and the Council for any subsequent transfer or disposal to take place. A Section 183 would then have to be prepared and agreed at this point.

Our legal people are working on this and as soon as the transfer is complete we will then be in a position to negotiate with the school.

Mr. Kilfeather responded to part of Councillor Gormley’s motion as follows:

We can again examine possible improvements at this location which is already within the speed limit zone. Flashing signs depicting “Slow, Slower” etc are quite expensive and no special funding exists.

27. TUBBERCURRY SEWERAGE SYSTEM:

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

“The recent EPA report listed, among others, that Tubbercurry Sewerage System is not up to standard. I will ask when is work due to commence on this very important treatment plant.”

In response Mr. Kilfeather, SEO stated the following;

IW Strategy have reviewed this scheme and agreed that Tubbercurry/Grange/Strandhill/Ballinafad are to advance as a bundle.

Subject to the completion of additional surveys/site investigation etc based on our most recent engagement with IW, Sligo County Council Capital Asset Project Office hope to be in a position to advance to tender at late Q1 early Q2, 2015.

28. SOUTH SLIGO TOURISM:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor E. Scanlon

“When promoting Sligo, this Council and all other agencies need to include the county as a whole, including all areas of South Sligo, in order to increase tourism and job creation.”

In response Ms. Clarke, DOS stated the following;

Sligo County Council (SCC) is committed to the tourism promotion of the county as a whole which stimulates job creation. In addition to the successful delivery of the Wild Atlantic Way, which extends along the entire county coastline, the development of walks through the Border Uplands Project is also geographically dispersed. Other projects around the county include; the National Mountain Biking Centre proposals on the Ox Mountains, the'Greenaway' proposal along the SLNCR (Sligo-to Enniskillen) disused railway line.

Support for events such as the Fleadh, Sligo Live, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day and Yeats 2015 deliver additional tourism numbers to the County which is intended to stimulate economic development and assist in job creation.

The use of technology,utilising the website www.sligotourism.ie and allied social media ensure the whole county continues to be represented.

The CE, Mr. Hayes informed the members that he would be placing an item on the agenda for the Municipal District meeting looking at how the Council can package these attractions in South Sligo.

It was agreed to take Items 30, 37 and 39 together.

30. WASTE COMPANY INCREASES:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

AND AGREED

“That this council will write to the Ministers in charge and ask them, what steps will be taken to offset the recent increases by Waste Recycling companies, way above the rate of inflation. For example:

22.5% increase for the Quarterly Service Charge
15.4% increase on the Waste Bin charges (120L Bin)
200% increase on the Blue bin recycling.”

37. REGULATION OF WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to call on the Minister for the Environment to restore the power to Sligo County Council to control and regulate our own waste disposal. Sinn Fein is very concerned at the increase announced in the cost of waste disposal for households. I wish to propose that the Council introduce bye laws ensuring that any increases in the cost of waste collection are index linked so as to ensure that they do not become prohibitive costs for households.”

39. WASTE COMPANY INCREASES:

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“It has been brought to my attention that certain categories of waste being collected by refuse collectors, have been increased up to 200% in certain cases for 2015 and that we should invite in these companies to explain how they can justify these high charges.”

In response Mr. O’Driscoll, A/SE stated the following;

Sligo County Council acknowledges the difficulty customers are having with regard to the recent price increases imposed by a local Waste Collector in recent weeks. It is a difficult issue to address from a Local Authority perspective, as there are no legislative powers in regard to charges that are imposed by private waste collectors.

However, it is a growing concern, and in an effort to tackle this issue, the following has been done:

The Connacht/Ulster draft Waste Management Plan 2015 - 2021 is currently in consultation phase and is available for public submissions to be made until 30^th January 2015. The draft plan can be viewed on www.curwmo.ie. An excerpt from the draft plan that deals with charging is attached to this written Response. As part of the Consultation process for the Plan and also taking the opportunity to discuss the current specific issues of concern namely continuing pricing increases and the incentivisation of the bins for recyclables and organic waste collection Kevin Swift, Regional Waste Coordinator for the Connaught/Border region will be available for an informal meeting on or after 20^th January 2015 with the Members and Officials of the Council. This meeting would need to be held before the 30^th January to ensure any views can be considered as part of the consultation phase.
Following this meeting, it is proposed to write directly to the Minister/Dept. of the Environment to ask them to consider the growing problem of price increases ahead of the introduction of national legislation on ‘pay per weight’ due for implementation in July 2015. This legislation will see the introduction of a mandatory ‘pay per weight’ system for all Waste Collectors and it is likely there will be further changes to waste collection charges at this time.
Correspondence was issued to Barna Recycling requesting justification for the recent price increases. It was also outlined to them the difficulties that the general public are having in regard to costs and the potential negative effects these cost increases may have on correct waste management practice in the county. A response to this correspondence was received on Friday 9^th January 2015 and circulated by e-mail to all Members so as to hopefully help inform their consideration of the matter today.

It should be noted, that there is no Financial Regulator over the Waste industry (unlike Energy). This means that Waste Collectors are entitled to set any price they wish on the domestic and commercial waste collection services that they provide. Any changes which would include mechanisms such as index linking or similar should be done on a national basis, via legislation, and therefore we would not expect to do this via local Bye Laws. This proposal will however be brought to the attention of the Dept. in our correspondence to them.

A review is also under way with the National Waste Collection Regulations, whereby it is proposed to bring in ‘pay per weight’ across all waste streams from July 2015. A draft of these Regulations will be available for the month of April for any submissions to be made. The issue of the Waste industry has been of major concern for a significant length of time. Minister Alan Kelly who is an “advocate of competition in the market but is unhappy with service to customers” was interviewed by the Irish Times in September 2014 on this topic. This press release can be viewed through the following link: here

With regard to inviting the Waste Collectors in question in to the Council to explain their reasons behind the cost increases, this could be done, however Sligo County Council have no power to oblige them to do so.

Within this Report are references to links bringing the Reader to sites to view the Draft Waste Management Plan and a statement made by the Minister. We will arrange for this Report to be circulated electronically to the Members after the meeting with the link details for the various documents included.

Consultation Details

As part of the Consultation process for the Plan and also taking the opportunity to discuss the current specific issues of concern namely continuing pricing increases and the incentivisation of the bins for recyclables and organic waste collection we will arrange a meeting with Kevin Swift, Regional Waste Coordinator for the Connaught/Border region for the Council Offices here in Riverside on a date between Jan 20^th and Jan 30^th. Date and time when confirmed will be advised to the Councillors.

Alternatively written submissions / observations in relation to the Draft Plan and the associated Environmental Report and the Natura Impact Report may be made to the Lead Authorities concerned and shall be taken into consideration by Lead Authorities before finalising the Draft Plan. The latest date of receipt of representations is 4pm on 30/01/15.

There members had a lengthy discussion expressing their dissatisfaction with the price increases across the board on waste disposal charges and the lack of and confusing nature of information supplied to the public by the Waste Collection companies. It was then;

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for the Environment to implement the Waste Collection Waiver Scheme for low income households, which was included in the Programme for Government under the Waste Framework Directive.”

In response, Mr. Kilfeather highlighted the ongoing consultation process whereby members should make submissions based on the comments made at this meeting, thus highlighting to the Minister the situation. And, as stated in the report the date of the meeting with the Regional Co-Ordinator would be circulated to the members in due course.

32. NRA ALLOCATION:

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

AND AGREED

“That this council welcomes the allocation of €9,994,650 by the NRA for the 2015 National Roads programme for County Sligo.”

6. SPC NOMINATIONS:

At this point the Cathaoirleach return to Item 6 relating to nominating members to the Strategies Policy Committees (SPCs).

Following a discussion the nominations were agreed as follows:

SPC 1 – Housing and Corporate (6)

Councillor Dara Mulvey – Chair
Councillor Martin Baker
Councillor Declan Bree
Councillor Seamus O’Boyle
Councillor Joe Queenan
Councillor Eamon Scanlon

SPC 2 – Environment and Infrastructure (6)

Councillor Jerry Lundy – Chair
Councillor Michael Clarke
Councillor Margaret Gormley
Councillor Thomas Healy
Councillor Hubert Keaney/Councillor Sinéad Maguire – ½ term each
Councillor Paul Taylor/Councillor Marie Casserly – ½ term each

SPC 3 – Planning, Community and Economic Development, Arts and Culture (8)

Councillor Sean Mac Manus – Chair
Councillor Marie Casserly
Councillor Hubert Keaney
Councillor Seamus Kilgannon
Councillor Sinéad Maguire
Councillor Tom Mac Sharry
Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady
Councillor Paul Taylor

33. ROSSES POINT PIER:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“That the Council be provided with an up to date report on the proposed Rosses Point Pier and Pontoon scheme, particularly with regard to any outstanding environmental, planning, access and licencing matters that need to be addressed and to ask if the Council has received any indication from the Department if grant aid will be provided for the project in 2015.”

In response Mr. Kilfeather, DOS stated the following;

The various works planned for Rosses Point Harbour Enhancement, lie partially in an SAC. It has been concluded that the works cannot be “screened out” and therefore a planning application has to be made to An Bord Pleanála. Various environmental reports were drafted in 2014 but due to alterations in procedures the submission has been delayed.It is now planned to have the planning application submitted to the Bord within the next 5 weeks.

Sligo County Council has this project as one of its highest priority piers and harbours projects and will be reapplying for funding for same, this year. Last year the departments funding was essentially diverted to fund storm damage repairs to structures, resulting from the storms that occurred last winter (2013/2014).

34. SIGNAGE ON BUNDORAN ROAD AT TOPAZ GARAGE:

Proposed by Councillor S. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“I would like to propose a motion that in light of recent fatalities and numerous accidents on the stretch on the Bundoran Road from the Topaz garage to Henderson garage, I am calling that Sligo County Council Roads Department carry out an inspection and discuss a feasibility study with the relevant authorities of an upgrade of lighting, signage, and traffic calming measures in that area. I look forward to a report from the Roads Department.”

In response Mr. Brennan, SE stated the following;

The road design section will carry out an analysis of this section of road and in association with the NRA develop and implement, where feasible and practical, appropriate improvements to this area.

35. HARBOUR BOARD:

Proposed by Councillor S. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

“I would propose that local council members when appointed to local organisations, ie, the Model Arts Center, the Hawk’s Well, the Health Forum, the Harbour Board etc, that communications be exchanged between the Councillors and the organisations.

Since being appointed to the Sligo Harbour Board I have received no communication of any description from them, I have left my phone no. and email at the said office and still have heard nothing. I would like to know is this common practice from the Harbour Board that no communication is exchanged between them and local representatives.”

The CE, Mr. Hayes acknowledged that it was intended to convene a meeting of the Board in December but financial matters took precedent and the meeting was not organised.

He now intended to schedule a meeting in the coming weeks and would be in contact with all Board members with details.

36. IRISH WATER ACCESS TO TENANCY RECORDS:

Proposed by Councillor S. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“I would like to know if Irish Water have had access to the database of tenancy records in Sligo Borough Council or Sligo County Council and if so do they have access on an ongoing basis.”

In response Ms. McConnell, A/DOS stated the following;

Irish Water, has not as yet, had access to any data base on Council Tenancies at this time. However Irish Water have by letter dated 5^th January 2014 written to the Council and advised that they have compiled a list of known local authority housing units, a copy of which they will be forwarding to the Council in the very near future. They are requesting that the Council arrange for these files to be updated with Council tenant names in order to allow IW update their records.

It is then the intention of Irish Water to write to the Council tenants advising them of their liability and affording them the opportunity to update their billing details by contacting Irish Water to ensure that their water services bill can have the opportunity to reflect the correct charges and allowances.

The council has been advised that Irish Water has liaised with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner in respect of Irish Water’s power to request names of tenants from landlords. The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner has advised that IW’s proposed procedures in respect of obtaining tenants names for this purpose is consistent with its statutory permission to access information in order to identify tenants in properties. IW is requesting the names of tenants only and not their PPS numbers. Tenants should contact IW directly with PPS numbers if they wish avail of the applicable allowances.

When a tenant leaves a property both that tenant and the LA should notify IW that they are no longer customers at that address. When a new tenant enters the property the LA should notify IW of the date of commencement of the tenancy and the name of the tenant. The LA will be responsible for the unoccupied periods of the dwelling calculated pro-rata.

Following a discussion by the members Ms. McConnell clarified the following;

Any charges due on a property are the responsibility of the tenant and so the Council will not be liable for tenants’ water charges.
The Data Commissioner has confirmed Irish Water’s request for tenants names.
As a courtesy Sligo Housing Department will be contacting its tenants in this regard.

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“That Sligo County Council do not hand over to Irish Water any data on record of tenants of Sligo County Council.”

Mr. Hayes advised the members that even if they passed this resolution he was bound by the fact that the exchange of information between local authorities and Irish Water is governed by legislation but the executive would seek legal advice in this regard.

As agreement could not be reached on the resolution the Cathaoirleach called for a vote.

For: Baker, Bree, Casserly, Gormley, Healy, Lundy, Mac Manus, O’Boyle, O’Grady, Queenan, Scanlon and Taylor.

Against: Keaney and Maguire.

As the vote was 12 For and 2 Against the Cathaoirleach declared the motion carried.

38. SHARED OWNERSHIP SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To request a meeting with the Minister for Housing to discuss the difficulties being experienced by people on the Shared Ownership Scheme where people are paying more on rent than they would be on ordinary mortgage rates.”

40. FUNDING FOR N4:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillors E. Scanlon, P. Taylor & D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Transport Minister, Pascal Donoghue to immediately provide funding to progress the N4 Castlebaldwin to Collooney project to tender.”

In response Mr. O’Toole, SEE stated the following;

An Bord Pleanála approved the N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin Scheme as presented by the Council on 24^th July 2014.

The 2015 NRA Allocation of €3.5M will allow the Council to continue advance works including archaeological investigations and detailed ground investigations and to progress the land acquisition process.

41. ARROWS ON COLLOONEY ROUNDABOUT:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillors D. Mulvey

“That Sligo County Council call on the NRA to provide arrows on the Toberbride round-about, Collooney to show road reducing to single lane in the interest of road safety.”

In response Mr. O’Toole, SEE stated the following;

This request for directional arrows at the Toberbride roundabout will be discussed and assessed by the NRA and our Road Design Department.

42. BALLINAFAD BUS STOP:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on Bus Éireann to reinstate the bus stop at Ballinafad Village due to the strong local demand.”

43. CARROWMORE TOMBS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

“Given the increased focus on tourism within our region as a Council we should do all within our power to increase the number of tourists visiting. Carrowmore is one of the premier archaeological attractions in the country, currently this site is closed for half of the year. This motion requests that this Council will seek to have the opening hours of Carrowmore extended.”

In response Ms. Clarke, DOS stated the following;

The delivery of the Wild Atlantic Way which passes adjacent to the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery Complex assists in providing additional focus to this rich archeological landscape, situated below Knocknarea and Queen Maeve's cairn. Sligo County Council with the support of the community continues to ensure that this unique offering is highlighted.

Sligo County Council's Infrastructure Department recently introduced a revised directional signage programme to facilitate vehicular traffic seeking to visit the Complex. However, the site itself is the sole responsibility of the Office of Public Works (OPW), which operates the Complex. Sligo County Council can advise the OPW of the request contained in the Notice of Motion.

Ms. Clarke went on to suggest that the local community could be consulted to co-ordinate extended opening times.

Councillor Maguire indicated that she would be willing to contact local groups to look at options for the site.

Councillor Mac Manus pointed out that Carrowmore is under the control of the OPW and Sligo County Council has no authoritative role in the running and maintenance of it.

Following further discussion it was;

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the relevant Minster requesting that the necessary funds be provided to enable Carrowmore site to remain open throughout the year.”

44. COMMERCIAL RATES:

With the agreement of the meeting this Item was deferred.

45. CHILDCARE RATES:

With the agreement of the meeting this Item was deferred.

46. RAUGHLEY HARBOUR:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

“That Sligo County Council seek funding for essential and emergency repairs to Raughley Harbour and peninsula, namely subsidence of jetty wall, ongoing issues with coastal erosion and surface of access road.”

In response Mr. O’Toole, SEE stated the following;

Issues relating to jetty wall, coastal erosion etc have been examined by our Design Department. It is intended that the localised damage to the original harbour walls will be repaired within 7 weeks. An application for storm damage will also be made to the salient government body.

47. MCCORMACK’S CROSS, BALLYGILGAN:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

“That Sligo County Council as a matter of urgency replace road markings at the junction known as McCormack’s Cross, Ballygilgan, Maugherow and upgrading of road surface at this junction.”

In response Mr. O’Toole, SEE stated the following;

This crossroads will be examined again by the Area Engineer with a view to seeing what can be done within very limited resources.

Mr. O’Toole confirmed that the Councillors discretionary fund could be used for minor works at this junction.

48. CATHERISATION LAB:

With the agreement of the meeting this Item was deferred.

49. WALKS UNDER BORDER UPLANDS PROJECT:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady

Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

“To advise when the current walks under development, as part of the Border Uplands Project, will be open to the public.”

In response Ms Clarke, DOS stated the following;

The Border Uplands Project is a cross-border, joint venture tourism development project involving close cooperation between Sligo County Council, Fermanagh District Council, Cavan County Council and Leitrim County Council. The Lead Partner for the project is the Irish Central Border Area Network (ICBAN). The project is funded under the European Union's INTERREG IVA programme, which is managed by the Special European Union's Programme Body (SEUPB).

In Co. Sligo five locations have been earmarked for the development of new or improved walking infrastructure; the Dartry Range inclusive of Benbulben, Knocknarae, the Ox Mountains, Streedagh/Mullaghmore and the Bricklieve Mountains.

It is intended to provide a range of infrastructure with the allocated funds including the development of car parking, trail head facilities, interpretative signage, waymarking, new trail development and the improvement of existing trails.

In addition, the project is running educational programmes and implementing an ongoing communications plan aimed at raising the profile of walking in County Sligo.

Works are underway with walks open to the public at:

Glencar: Path complete and open to the public. At 492 ft (150 m) Sruth In Aghaidh An Aird (also known as the Devil's Chimney) is listed on the World Waterfall Database as lrelands Tallest Waterfall. The waterfall does not flow during periods of dry weather, however, it is particularly spectacular during or immediately after periods of heavy rainfall. The Irish name for the waterfall - Sruth In Aghaidh An Aird -means stream against the height and denotes the fact that during certain weather conditions when the wind blows from the west the waterfall is blown upward and back over the cliff from which it falls.
Ox Mountains: Union Wood, access to the summit constructed
Carrowkeel: car park constructed and open
Knocknarea: Path construction works are ongoing.
Benbulben: (Gortarowey): Path construction works are ongoing.
Mullaghmore: Coastal path to commence works in spring 2015.

The walks will be formally launched in Spring 2015, with local/nearby community groups already indicating their intention to support the launch with a charity walk.

50. SLIGO, LEITRIM AND NORTHERN COUNTIES RAILWAY (SLNCR):

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“What is the current position regarding development of the SLNCR into a Greenway?”

In response Ms Clarke, DOS stated the following;

Sligo County Council (SCC) applied in 2013 for funding to the Dept. of Transport under the National Cycle Network (NCN) scheme to develop a 'rail to trail' cycle way or 'Greenway' along the disused railway line, The Sligo, Leitrim and Northern Counties Railway (SLNCR), running from Sligo City to Co. Leitrim county boundary, near Ballintogher. This application was shortlisted but was ultimately unsuccessful.

SCC is currently engaged with Leitrim and Cavan County Councils along with Fermanagh District Council to position the SLNCR cycle way /Greenway for a future funding scheme, including the cross-border/inter territorial programmes. Areas currently under consideration include, land ownership, route selection, environmental considerations (Habitat Directive/EIA) and planning requirements. It is considered that progress being made in each of these related areas is likely to improve the chances of future funding applications.

Councillor Maguire informed the meeting that ICBAN are also looking at the potential of this project and could be a source for funding in the future.

51. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Clare Doohan on the death of her brother, Eamon Noone.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Duffy on death of her brother, Christy Meehan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gabriel Barrett on the death of his brother, Vincent Barrett.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Flaherty on the death of her husband, Paddy Flaherty.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Aoife Henry on the death of her father, Paddy McDermott.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bridie Marren and Family on the death of her husband, Tommy Marren, Snr.”

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael, Danny and Johnny Healy Rae on the death of Jackie Healy Rae.”

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor E. Scanlon

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Josephine O’Reilly on the death of her husband, Joseph O’Reilly.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Annie May Curran on the death of her brother-in-law, Brian Curran.”

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Peggy Gannon on the death of her husband, Eamon Gannon.”

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the French Embassy and the families of the 17 citizens who lost their lives in the recent events in Paris.”

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Rooney on the death of her husband, Brendan Rooney.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Patricia Burke and Family on the death of her father, Brendan Rooney.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Feeney on the death of her cousin, Pat Doherty.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tommy McGowan on the death of his brother, Patrick McGowan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Roger McGowan and Family on the death of his father, Patrick McGowan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Nuala and Sean Gillen on the death of their mother, Margaret Gillen.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paddy Hallinan on the death of his wife, Maura Hallinan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the Marshall Family on the death of their mother, Anna Marshall.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Peggy Gannon on the death of her husband, Eamon Gannon.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ken Cunningham on the death of his mother, Ethel Cunningham.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Teresa McCann on the death of her mother, Agnes Feeney.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Catherine Meehan on the death of her husband, Christy Meehan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Geraldine Reynolds on the death of her father, Tommy Middleton.”

52. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Michael Tuffy, Carrowhubbock, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo on the occasion of his 90th birthday. He has worked tirelessly for his community and to promote west Sligo.”

53. CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“That the list of conferences circulated for December at this meeting, are unanimously agreed.”

54. CONFERENCE REPORTS:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“To note the summary of proceedings of conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5) (f) of the Local Government Act, 2001.”

55. CORRESPONDENCE:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“To note the correspondence circulated with the agenda.”

56. MATTERS ARISING:

None

57. AOB:

None

END OF MEETING:

The meeting concluded at 5.25pm

Meeting Date 12/01/2015