Minutes 2015

Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 7th December, 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 MacManus,
  • Councillor Mac Sharry,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor O’Grady,
  • Councillor Queenan,
  • Councillor Scanlon and
  • Councillor Taylor.

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Mr. Frank Moylan, A/Senior Planner
  • Mr. Donal Tinney, County Librarian
  • Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer
  • Ms. Emer Concannon, A/Senior Engineer
  • Ms. Siobhán Ryan, Heritage Officer
  • Mr. Brían Flynn, Senior Resident Engineer
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
  • Ms. Margaret McConnell, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Michael Carty, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Mr. Paul O’Rourke, Executive Engineer
  • Mr. Ray O’Grady, Executive Planner
  • Mr. John O’Hara, Assistant Architect
  • Mr. Jimmy O’Brien, I.S. Project Leader
  • Ms. Caroline Conmy, Administrative Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady presided.

 

WELCOME FROM CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed those in the Public Gallery to the Council Chamber and the Meeting.

 

REPORT RE. DAMAGE CAUSED BY STORM DESMOND:

At the outset, the Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that the Chief Executive would report on conditions and events that occurred at the weekend as a result of “Storm Desmond”. 

Congratulations and thanks were extended by the Cathaoirleach and Councillors for the work carried out by the staff of Sligo County Council, the Army and Gardai. 

The Chief Executive advised the Meeting that Sligo County Council staff across many service areas had been out working right throughout the weekend primarily roads, fire services and Environment but also Civil Defence, I.T. and Communications.  The O.P.W. also assisted with flood protection measures.

Mr. T. Kilfeather, Director of Services, presented a report on the Council’s response to the widespread flooding which had impacted on roads throughout the county.

Mr. Kilfeather indicated that the county’s status had been submitted to the national Major Emergency Planning Committee.  A Cabinet Meeting had also been arranged for the next day to consider the impact of “Storm Desmond” .

The Cathaoirleach thanked Mr. Kilfeather for his presentation and update on the current situation.

Following this discussion, the following resolutions were put before the meeting by the Cathaoirleach:

 

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to provide emergency funding to cover the costs incurred by this Council due to the serious damage caused by storm “Desmond”.

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That this Council applies to the Department of the Environment for funding for a drainage programme for rural Sligo to drain streams and rivers that need drainage”.

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Department of Agriculture to introduce a grant scheme for Farmers in Sligo to drain their lands to prevent local flooding on public roads”.

 

1.  MINUTES OF SPC 3 MEETING HELD ON 8TH SEPTEMBER, 2015:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of SPC 3 Meeting held on 8th September, 2015”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 21ST SEPTEMBER, 2015: 

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 21st September, 2015”.

 

3.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 2ND NOVEMBER, 2015:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 2nd November, 2015”.

 

4.  MINUTES OF BUDGET MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 9TH NOVEMBER, 2015:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of Budget Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 9th November, 2015”.

 

5.  MINUTES OF BUDGET MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 23RD NOVEMBER, 2015:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of Budget Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 23rd November, 2015”.

 

6.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY TO THE HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL, TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve property disposal to the Holy Family School, Tobercurry pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001”.

 

7.  DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS – CORNMILL PARK, BALLYMOTE, ARD LAIGHNE, COOLANEY AND MAIDEN CRESCENT, TUBBERCURRY:

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

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 NumbersLocation
L-56047-4, L-56047-3, L-56047-2, L-56047-1 and L-56047-0 Roads situate in the development known as “Cornmill Park”, Ballymote, Co. Sligo.
L-61052-0 (existing public road), L-61053-0, L-61053-1 and L-61053-2 Roads situate in the development known as “Ard Laighne” Coolaney, Co. Sligo.
L-87051-0 Road situate in the development known as “Maiden Crescent” Tubbercurry”.

 

8.  PRESENTATION BY WEST ON TRACK:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed representatives from the “West on Track” Group: Helen Rochford-Brennan, Colmán O’Raghallaigh and Peter Bowen-Walsh.

The Presentation entitled “West=on=Track – connecting the West” provided information on the background to the Group’s aims and objectives.  The Group indicated that “In a spirit of goodwill and co-operation West on Track has written this weekend to the Sligo Greenway Co-Op inviting them to meet representatives of West on Track with a view to agreeing how co-operation between them might secure the future of the existing rail line while allowing a study into the feasibility of a greenway at a safe distance from the line”.

Several Members welcomed the Group, acknowledged the information given to the Meeting and thanked them for clarifying queries raised.  Members also welcomed that correspondence had been sent by the group in recent days to the Sligo Greenway Co-Op. and looked forward to the outcome from this proposal for their future discussions.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the West on Track group for their presentation and the Members for their input.

 

PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE COUNCIL MEETINGS:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that there are two requests for Presentations to the Council at a Meeting in 2016.

  1. Councillor T. Healy has received a request from Mr. Michael McMahon and Mr. Seamus Shanley for a presentation on the undocumented Irish in America.
  2. Irish Cellular Industry Association to make a presentation at the request of the Council.

The Members agreed that both presentations should be facilitated when they can be arranged.

 

27.  ITEM 27 – TAKING IN CHARGE – CHERRY TREE PARK, RIVERSTOWN:

With the agreement of the meeting, item number 27 would be taken after the adjournment for lunch.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting was adjourned at 1.15 p.m. and resumed at 2.20 p.m.

 

9.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2015:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for October 2015”.

 

10.  UPDATE ON REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 128 OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – RECOGNISED ASSOCIATIONS:

The decision to recognise Residents Associations or other community groups under the legislation is a matter for the Members.  The role of the Executive is to advise the Members in relation to all aspects of the issue.

Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services, outlined details from the Report she had circulated to the Members and the issues involved.  In particular, Ms. Clarke referred to the burden this would place on community groups, Residents’ Associations and the County Council, particularly with the reducing staff numbers.

Having researched the matter with other local authorities and the Department, to date none has invoked this Section or had established a best practice in relation to it.

 

It was proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“That consideration of Item No. 10 on the agenda be adjourned until the January 2016 meeting of the Council”.

In thanking Ms. Clarke for the report, Councillor Bree said that Residents’ Associations have indicated that they want the County Council to use this Section, particularly in the maintenance of open spaces and grass cutting.  In expressing his disappointment with the reply, which indicated this could place a burden on Residents’ Associations, Councillor Bree said the County Council Executive is opposed to declaring them as Recognised Associations. 

Referring to the deferral of consideration of this item to the January 2016 Meeting, Councillor Bree asked that details of the burden referred to would also be provided at that meeting. 

 

11.  REPORT ON WASTE MANAGEMENT ISSUES IN SLIGO:

Mr. Kilfeather referred to the Report on waste management issues in Sligo which had been circulated to the Members with the Agenda.

The Members agreed to note the contents of the Report.

 

27.  REPORT ON TAKING IN CHARGE OF ESTATES:

As had been agreed, prior to the adjournment, Item 27 was taken next on the Agenda.

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to take in charge Cherry Tree Park in Riverstown.”

It was further agreed to also consider six additional items 22, 23, 30, 32, 37 and 43 as they all related to the taking in charge, by the Council, of Estates throughout the county.

Ms. Clarke referred to the detailed report, prepared by the Council’s Planning Enforcement Section, which had been circulated to the Members by e-mail. 

Contained in this report were all details relating to:

 

  • Works carried out under the Special Resolution Fund
  • Works carried out in 2015
  • Housing Estates currently at Tender stage
  • Estates with Bond claim/Site Resolution plan and
  • Estates taken in charge

 

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

“Seek clarification from the Council as to when Castleburn development in Ballymote will be taken in charge by Sligo County Council.”

 

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

“Request Sligo County Council to take in charge Rathosey estate situate at Rathosey, Coolaney.”

 

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

“To ask the Director of Services to consider Taking in charge the Castlecove Estate, Enniscrone.”

 

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

“I call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on unfinished estates in west Sligo (b) the Fairgreen, Dromore West etc.”

 

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

“That given that significant outstanding works have been carried out in Sandycove Estate, Strandhill, Sligo County Council will now commence the process of taking this estate in charge.”

 

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide a full report on the following housing estates finished and unfinished which Sligo County Council wish to takeover and what stage are they at.  In Ballisodare Millview, Bushy Park, Mill falls and Avena. In Collooney Ivy Grove, Bru Na hAbhainn, Ashbrook and Steeple View,  In Ballygawley Fairways and  Riocht Na Si, Riverstown Cherrytree Park and in Ballintogher Kingsfort Manor.”

 

Ms. Clarke and Mr. O’Rourke clarified a number of points raised by Members in relation to the contents of the report.

In particular, reference was made to the role of Irish Water in the “Taking in charge” process.  In a number of cases, the delay was due to an issue with liability for the payment of legal costs involved in processing way leaves. 

Councillor MacManus advised the meeting that residents in Sandycove Estate in Strandhill had been paying the public lighting bill there for a period of eight years.  They had now stopped this payment and are concerned that the lights will be cut off.

In order to assist residents affected in this situation, the Chief Executive indicated that one potential solution is to take the public lighting in charge.  This could be done initially while the way leaves issue is resolved.  Mr. Hayes said that he did not see any difficulty in taking the public lighting in charge in advance of the other services.

Members sought a time-frame as to when the way leave issue would be resolved.  Mr. P. O’Rourke confirmed that the issue with way leave processing, at the request of Irish Water, is a national issue and not confined to Sligo.  It, therefore, was not possible for him to give any indication as to when it would be decided.

Councillor Queenan referred to his motion for the taking in charge of Castlecove Estate in Enniscrone.  This Estate was built as a holiday home development containing 100 houses and a Nursing Home.  However, only eleven of the houses there are now holiday homes, with the remaining houses being long term homes. 

The Chief Executive advised the meeting that this situation would be examined.  This may require the County Council to change its policy, given that the policy at the time was not to take in charge holiday home developments.  It was agreed that this matter would be examined and staff would revert to the Members.

 

12.  PROVISION OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES AT THE FAIRGREEN, SLIGO:

Mr. Kilfeather referred to the Report which had been circulated with the Agenda.  This Report had outlined the background to the proposal and confirmed that the Scheme, as originally applied for, is being reviewed to see if any changes can be made to the project specifications.  It is planned to prepare Tender documents in the next few weeks for a Scheme at the Fairgreen. 

Members welcomed the contents of the Report and referred to other areas where parks had been completed to a high standard, e.g. Mitchell Curley Park, Forthill and Cleveragh.

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council use the €80,000 sports grant provided by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in addition to the €33,329 allocated by the Borough Council in 2011, and any additional funding that can be identified, in the first phase of the Fairgreen project and that the Tender Documents be prepared and tenders sought so as to ensure there is sufficient time available to deliver the project in accordance with the Departments funding rules.”

Councillor D. Bree indicated that the record of this allocation by Sligo Borough Council was in the Minutes of Meeting held on 14th November, 2011.

 

13.  UPDATE ON “IRELAND 2016”:

Mr. D. Tinney updated Members on the current situation regarding “Ireland 2016” Events and Funding in Sligo.

In a presentation to the Meeting, Members were advised of the

 

  • Seed Funding Applicants
  • Second tranche of funding
  • Government funding 2016
  • Key deliverables
  • Timeframe

 

It was noted that the funding allocated was a total of €94,000.

Mr. Tinney further advised the Members that the “Ireland 2016” group will be working with those involved in “Yeats 2015”.

Samples of the “Ireland 2016” candles were on display at the meeting.  2016 of these candles had been manufactured locally by “Jennie’s Candles” with two charities receiving the proceeds.    North West Hospice and the local Society of St. Vincent de Paul would have these candles for sale prior to Christmas.  Also on display was a larger ceremonial version of the candle and the banner which had been designed in-house.

The Cathaoirleach and Members thanked Mr. Tinney and his team for the work they have done on this project.

 

14.  APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO SPC1:

The Members noted the appointment of Ms. Rosaleen Doonan as a member of SPC 1 following resignation of Mr. Paraic Colreavy.

 

15.  STATUTORY AUDIT REPORT FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2014:

In response to a query, Ms. M. Whelan clarified an issue in relation to Burial Grounds.

The CE noted that the Auditor’s Report was silent on the withdrawal of the €750,000 by the Department.  The Financial Plan  had evolved over two years  and targets and criteria continually changed.  Had the Council received the €750,000, it would have been in a surplus situation. 

 

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with a full report and breakdown of costs associated with the visit of the four person delegation to the United States for the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations 2014.”

 

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

AND AGREED

“To note the statutory audit report on the accounts of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31st December, 2014”.

Following further discussions, the Chief Executive advised the Members that copies of all correspondence relating to the Financial Plan had been circulated to them.  While approval has been received, Mr. Hayes said the conditions are onerous.  

In highlighting these points, the Chief Executive said it is his desire to protect the organisation from being penalised due to circumstances outside the Council’s control, such as impact of the Global Valuation of Utilities and the expenditure incurred in responding to the recent ‘Storm Desmond.’

Members complimented the Chief Executive and staff for getting the Plan accepted and in place. Members indicated that the Taoiseach had requested the Council to revert to him when the Plan had been accepted. 

In reply to queries, Mr. Hayes advised the meeting that he was obliged, as Chief Executive, to protect the interests of Sligo County Council and referred to the conditions imposed in the Department’s letter of 26th November.

The Chief Executive has been put in a position where he had to accept conditions as set out by the Department. While the Department had indicated they would be flexible in the case, for example, of severe weather conditions, he could only go by what he has received in writing. 

 

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

AND AGREED

“Now that the Financial Plan has been agreed with the Department of the Environment, this Council calls on the Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny, to make further funds available so that this Council can deliver for the people of this county”.

 

16.  ROADS WINTER SERVICE PLAN 2015/16:

Mr. Kilfeather referred to the Report which had previously been circulated to the Members. 

The aim of the Winter Service Plan is to set out how Sligo County Council will deal with ice and snow conditions on roads in County Sligo.  This plan sets out the processes, procedures and key personnel employed by the Council to deliver the winter service.  The Plan will be amended, as necessary, during the winter season. 

The Council’s objective is to provide an effective and efficient winter service within the resources available to minimise the negative impacts of frost, ice or snow on the travelling public. 

The Members noted the contents of the Report and the points raised by Mr. Kilfeather.

 

17.  DRAFT COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN 2016-2020:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor E. Scanlon

AND AGREED

“To note the Draft County Sligo Heritage Plan 2016-2020”.

As Chair of the Heritage Forum, Councillor Kilgannon wished to record his thanks to Siobhán Ryan, Heritage Officer, for the work undertaken in relation to this Plan.

 

18.  COMMERCIAL RATES ON EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

19.  FUNDING FOR FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR GREENWAY FROM COLLOONEY TO BELLAGHY:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

20.  ROAD WORKS ON N59:

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

“To call on Sligo county council on the N59

  1. improvements carried out in the Village of Ballisodare
  2. the N59 dangerous bends at Coolaney turns
  3. pavements improvements at Templeboy/Dromore West and Camcuil areas
  4. report on any proposed sight line improvements on dangerous Junctions.”

 

Mr. T. Kilfeather reported as follows:

  1. Substantial Pavement Improvement works have been completed recently in Ballysadare on N59 from the entrance to Cloondara estate towards Abbeytown
  2. Work is underway on the design of a 5km pavement scheme from Templeboy to Dromore West.  It is hoped to construct this in 2016 subject to funding. 
  3. Safety schemes on the National Roads are identified by the NRA under the HD15 funding stream.  If there is a high accident location appearing on the NRA system, funding will be allocated.

 

21.  NATIONAL BIKING CENTRE, COOLANEY:

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

“I call on Sligo County Council to give an update on the progress of the €5 million National Biking Centre planned at Coolaney Co Sligo what assistance Sligo County Council can give on Planning Permission for this proposed venture.

I wish to acknowledge the tremendous support from the executive of Sligo County Council officials Dorothy Clarke, Michael Carty and Ray O Grady thus far, this is very much a community project in collaboration with the state.

It is a shovel ready project, the feasibility study is complete and the landowner Sligo (Coillte) are on board, but It is imperative that we have a fast track planning permission as this is a huge Tourism project for the whole North West.”

Ms. D. Clarke reported as follows:

Following the publication of Coillte’s Off Road Cycling Strategy, Sligo County Council, Coillte and Coolaney Development Company have been working collaboratively in pursuit of the objective of achieving a National Mountain Biking Centre on the Ox Mountains adjacent to Coolaney Village.

Studies (feasibility study, corridor evaluation and financial appraisal) in support of the proposal have been delivered; representation and public presentations have been made to a wide range of stakeholders with the expressed aim of achieving awareness of the proposal and seeking to identify potential funding sources for the project.

The next phase to be considered in the development of the project is planning. The achievement of necessary planning permission forms an element of the overall advance requirements, prior to being considered ‘shovel ready’ for funding purposes.

 

24.  TENANT PURCHASE SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

“To call on the Minister of Environment to introduce a new Tenant Purchase scheme.”

Councillor Scanlon indicated that this motion had been listed prior to the announcement of the new Scheme. 

In reply to queries raised by the Members, Mr. J. Murphy clarified the criteria for eligibility, the incremental discounts applicable for Tenants and payments applicable if the house was sold in future years.

 

25.  AURIVO FACILITY AT ACHONRY:

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

“With the threatened loss of twenty jobs at Achonry due to the proposal by Aurivo to transfer the Butter Packing Operations to Mitchelstown, Co. Cork this Council calls on Aurivo to reverse its decision and to carry out the necessary improvements necessary to retain the facility at Achonry.”

Councillor Gormley outlined the background to this motion and other changes this group had introduced in recent years, including their move from Tubbercurry to a premises in Finisklin, Sligo. 

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

AND AGREED:

“This Council calls on the Management of Aurivo to attend a Sligo County Council meeting to explain what are their plans for this county”.

Councillors Baker, Lundy, Kilgannon, Gormley, Taylor and Mulvey were also included in proposing this motion.

 

28.  OVER-HANGING TREES ON BALLINTOGHER-SLIGO ROAD:

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

“In the interests of safety to ask the Council to investigate the hazard caused by over-hanging trees on the Ballintogher- Sligo Road.”

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that the Area Engineer will inspect this section of road.

 

26.  FLOODING ALONG OWENMORE RIVER:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update on the recent extensive flooding along the banks of the Owenmore River,

What drainage works have been carried out in the last few years, 

What drainage works are planned  in light of the funding received yearly,

I want to compliment the work carried out by the Ballymote / Tubbercurry Area Engineering staff and our former colleague, the late Councillor Gerry Murray, who worked extensively on this issue in conjunction with the Owenmore Relief Flooding Committee under the Chairman, Paddy Joe Hannon.”

Councillor Mulvey welcomed Mr. Paddy Joe Hannon to the Public Gallery of the Council Meeting.

Mr. Kilfeather reported on the matter, summary as follows:

“The following location experienced flooding during the recent flood event namely – one carriageway at Rathmullen Bridge R293, LP 1603 / LS 5601 at the Templehouse junction and on the old N4 at Knockbeg. Significant areas of agricultural land within the flood plain of the Owenmore were also affected, even before the recent storm.

Maintenance drainage works have been undertaken by Sligo County Council on parts of the main River and some of its tributary upstream of Templehouse Lake towards its source in recent years. The draft programme for 2016 has not be complied at this time and Sligo County Council will consider all submission received by stakeholders re same in early 2016. Any significant upgrading works, however, are a matter for the OPW”.

 

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS:

The Members agreed to suspend Standing Orders to allow the business to continue after 5.00 p.m. until all items on the Agenda were dealt with.

 

29.  DRAINAGE WORKS ON OWENMORE RIVER:

It was agreed to take items 29 and 50 together at this stage of the Meeting. 

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

“That this Council calls on the Government and the OPW to provide funding to carry out drainage works on the Owenmore River which has caused serious flooding on lands and roads recently.”

 

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

“That Sligo County Council contacts the Office of Public Works to explore the possibility of draining the Owengarve River in the Parish of Curry where several public roads were flooded and extremely dangerous to motorists as a result of the recent heavy rainfall.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Office of Public Works would be contacted regarding these issues.

 

31.  SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

33.  ABOLITION OF IRISH WATER:

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

“I call on Sligo County Council to call on the government to respect the wishes of hundreds of thousands of people in this county and country by abolishing Irish water and returning the staff and financial resources to the local authorities to upgrade the water infrastructure throughout the country and having a vote of no confidence.”

Following a discussion on this Resolution, a vote was taken with the following result: 

FOR – Councillor Bree, Councillor Gormley, Councillor Healy, Councillor MacManus and Councillor O’Boyle (5)

AGAINST – Councillor Baker, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Kilgannon, Councillor Lundy, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Grady and Councillor Taylor (7) 

ABSENT -  Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Maguire, Councillor MacSharry, Councillor Queenan and Councillor Scanlon (6)

The Cathaoirleach declared the Resolution lost.

 

34.  HOME IMPROVEMENT GRANT SCHEME:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

35.  ROAD FROM BELLANAGRAUGH BRIDGE TO LOUGH EASKEY:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to include the section of road near Mass Hill which is in poor state of repair in the schedule of Restoration and Maintenance works for 2016.  The road in question is the CR 451 or LP 4701-0 and is 11.87km approx. from Bellanagraugh Bridge to Lough Easkey.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather reported that County Road LP4701-0 can be considered as part of the Schedule of works for the Ballymote/Tubbercurry Municipal District for 2016 subject to appropriate funding levels.

 

36.  FALDUFF/BARRYARA BRIDGE:

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

“Bridge over river situate at Ballyara/Rhue Tubbercurry requires immediate work.  The bridge is not capable of dealing with the volumes of water currently in the river.  The eyes of the bridge should be widened and the water table level lowered.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather reported that this bridge (Falduff/Barryara) has been inspected recently. It is on a reasonably fast flowing section of the stream in question draining to the River Moy for which the O.P.W. has responsibility. The bridge is in relatively good condition.  It is considered that the capacity of the bridge is adequate. Sligo County Council does not consider that works are required to the bridge.

However, following a further discussion, Mr. Kilfeather suggested that the bridge would be re-inspected.

 

38.  TRAFFIC PROBLEMS ON CHAPEL ROAD, GRANGE:

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

“To request that Sligo County Council take all appropriate actions to address the traffic problems and pedestrian hazards on Chapel Road, adjacent to Grange Hall.”

In replying to this motion, Mr. Kilfeather reported that a lot of traffic congregates in this area for the school during the morning and afternoon and for the hall at night.  Sligo County Council has recent years carried out significant upgrade works to the pedestrian crossing facilities, road lining, markings and traffic management adjacent to the school and church, which assist pedestrians in crossing from the car park.

A further discussion followed and, as had been suggested in the Report, said the possibility of double yellow lines being put in place would be examined.  Councillor MacManus asked that option of a safety rail/barrier would also be considered for this location.

 

39.  TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON R286 IN CALRY:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“Sligo Municipal District, at its meeting on 16th February, 2015, passed motion no 21 re. traffic calming measures on Regional Road No. 286 in Calry.  That this meeting be provided with a Report outlining the Council’s proposals to address this matter.”

The Meeting was advised by Mr. Kilfeather that this is a busy regional road. The speed limit in the area is 50km/h.

We will review this location to determine if there are any additional measures that can be done to encourage drivers to reduce speed at this location.

 

40.  TOWN AND VILLAGE RENEWAL SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

“That a report be presented at the December Meeting on the new Town and Village Renewal Scheme, which was included in Budget 2016, what portion of the 30 million euro will be channelled to Sligo County Council.”

Ms. D. Clarke advised the meeting that, to date, there has only been verbal communications from the Department regarding these funds.  No decision has yet been made as to how the monies are to be allocated and will be available to local authorities subject to preparation of Local Area Plans, etc.  There has been no determination as to the criteria or when the local authorities will be notified of same. 

Councillor Kilgannon asked that this item be deferred until information has been received from the Department.

 

41.  DEPORTATION ORDER ON JIMMY GRALTON:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to ask the Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald, to formally rescind the deportation order on Jimmy Gralton and acknowledge the injustice done to Jimmy and his family by the enactment of this order."

Councillor T. Healy advised the Members that the Gralton Family would be attending the launch of a petition in City Hall on 29th December.

 

42.  I.N.M.O. EMERGENCY NURSING STAFF:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commends the INMO emergency nursing staff for taking industrial action for the purpose of improving care facilities for their patients. We call on Minister Leo Varadkar to immediately engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue with nursing representatives that will address their concerns.”

 

44.  TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION PROGRAMME 2014-2018:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor

“To ask the Chief Executive Officer (a) what progress has been made in regard to the implementation of the Traveller Accommodation Programme 2014-2018: (b) have the accommodation targets in the Programme for the years 2014 and 2015 been achieved; (c) how many meeting of the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee have been held in the period since the newly elected Council appointed its representatives to the Committee on the 6th of June 2014.”

Mr. J. Murphy reported  on the matter, summary as follows:

In 2014 four families were supported in their accommodation needs. This included three Council tenancies and the provision of a demountable unit. The target in 2014 of 4 under Local Authority Tenancy was achieved.  

Reliance on private rented and leasing is a significant feature of current housing policy and this is reflected in the Traveller Accommodation Programme. Lack of delivery through RAS and private rented in 2014 resulted in the target of 7 (under RAS/private rented) not being achieved. 

Given the significance of the private rented sector towards achieving housing need and the lack of units from that sector in 2014 for traveller accommodation, the Housing Team together with the L.T.A.C.C. pushed for greater delivery in 2015. Measures included efforts at better information dissemination, hosting a workshop with property interests and offering incentives where possible to encourage rental contracts with members of the traveller community. So far this year the target of 7 for RAS/private rented has been achieved.

Mr Murphy outlined a series of targets under the Programme and noted that the requirement of the Department for staff reductions has resulted in a significantly reduced housing team. And that inevitably declining staff numbers will result in reduced output.

It was agreed that the Minutes of the Traveller Accommodation Meetings would be circulated to the Members.

 

45.  FLOODING ON ROAD AT AUGHAMORE NEAR:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“That the Council takes the necessary steps to ensure that the problem of flooding on the public road at Aughamore Near is resolved. (road Aughamore Near linking Cairns Road with R287).”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Roads Department of Sligo County Council, acting in accordance with powers conferred under Section 76 of the Roads Act, has carried out works at the location in question in order to address this flooding issue.  Notice of the Council’s intention has also been served on the landowner in question.

 

46.  SLIGO TOWN CENTRE WINE STREET CAR PARK DEVELOPMENT:

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

“To ask the Chief Executive Officer to provide a report to the Council on the status of the proposed Sligo Town Centre Wine Street Car Park Development project, the report to include details as to the ownership of all properties which were included in the development project.”

Mr. Kilfeather advised the meeting that, in recent months, the Council has concluded negotiations in respect to the last remaining interest to be acquired within the Wine Street car park.  The Council will proceed without delay to have the car park lands vested in the Council’s name.

Given the passage of time since the Centre Block project was conceived, it is considered prudent that the development proposal as originally planned should be reviewed.  It is intended therefore to commence a review of this project during the 1st quarter of 2016.

In reply to a query from Councillor Bree, the Chief Executive advised the Members that his hope is that the review will take place in the first quarter with a Report to the Members in the first half of the year.

 

47.  REQUEST FOR BUS SHELTER IN GRANGE:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

48.  ANNUAL SUMMER EVENT/FESTIVAL FOR SLIGO:

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

“Given the success of the Fleadh over the past 2 years showing that Sligo is capable of hosting a significant national event and given the fact that there is a gap in the events calendar and a desire from the general public and the tourism industry for 2016, I propose that Sligo County Council facilitate a tourism workshop and/or marketing survey as early as possible with the goal of developing a significant annual event that will attract visitors and locals to Sligo.  This annual Summer event/festival can inform the 5 year tourism strategy framework and maintain and build on the energy and interest that has been created from the Fleadh.”

Ms. D. Clarke reported that Sligo County Council (SCC) was closely involved in the successful delivery of both Fleadhanna, 2014 and 2015 in Co. Sligo. Other highlights in 2015 saw the Royal Visit, the Yeats 150 celebrations, Sligo Live and the Surf Summit, amongst many other notable events, reflected in the year long calendar.

The Council acknowledged the significant voluntary effort undertaken by the various committees and festival volunteers who participated unselfishly in the various successful events and without whom many of the events could not have progressed and achieved the positive outcome associated with each event.

The Council will consider submissions in collaboration with the various strategic partners/stakeholders involved in events delivery, during 2016, with a view to determination of the best significant annual/festival which will attract visitors and local to Sligo and inform a tourism strategic framework. The exact nature and format of any engagement would be informed by best practice and available resources.

 

49.  INVITATION TO POPE FRANCIS FOR PAPAL VISIT TO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“This Council notes that Dublin is hosting the 9th Word Meeting of Families in 2018 which is likely to include a Papal visit. Given Co Sligo's long association with Christianity, including being home to one of Europe's oldest surviving monastic settlement - Inishmurray, the Council extends a formal invitation to Pope Francis to visit Co Sligo during his visit to Ireland, and that such an invitation should be extended forthwith to the Papal Nuncio in Dublin Archbishop Charles John Brown.” 

 

51.  MEDICAL CARD CRISIS:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

52.  REQUEST FOR €50 MILLION BAIL OUT:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

53.  BALLYMOTE COURT AND RE-OPENING OF GARDA STATIONS:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

54.  SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS AT GRANGE, STRANDHILL AND TUBBERCURRY:

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

55.  IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON RINBANE ROAD (R461/558):

With the agreement of the Members, this item was deferred to the Agenda for the January Meeting.

 

56.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Sarah and Pat Powell and family of Cloonsilla, Gurteen on the death of their daughter, Karen.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Joseph Murray, Calterane, Gurteen on the death of his mother, Chrissie.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Elizabeth Clarke, Cloonacurra, Ballinacarrow on the death of her father, Paddy Henry.

 

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gráinne Boal and family of Glen Road, Knocknahur on the death of her husband, Angus.

 

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Pat MacManus and family, Radharc na Mara, Strandhill on the death of his wife, Bernadette.

 

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor E. Scanlon

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Anne Marie McGovern and family of Ballinode on the death of her husband, Philip”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the Mary and Hughie James and family of Cloonekeemouge, Beltra on the death of their son, Paraic.

 

The Chief Executive, on his own behalf and on behalf of the Staff, wished to be associated with these expressions of sympathy.

 

 

57.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to all involved in Sligo being set to become the Capital of Europe in 2017 (The European Volunteering Capital)”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Cían Harte of Riverstown on the launch of his book “The Lost Tales: Riverstown’s Great War, 1914 to 1918” on World War One and the people of Riverstown who took part in this War”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Dessie Leonard of Collooney Kickboxing Club on his success at the WAKO World Championships held in Dublin recently”.

 

58.  CONFERENCES AND TRAINING:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

59.  PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES AND TRAINING:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

60.  CORRESPONDENCE:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the correspondence circulated with the Agenda”.

 

61.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this item.

 

62.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that there were two matters for their attention

  1. An invitation was extended to the Members to join the Cathaoirleach, Chief Executive and Staff for lunch in the Canteen on Wednesday, 23rd December.
  2. The date for the January Meeting has been fixed for Monday, 11th January, 2016.

 

END OF MEETING:

The meeting concluded at 5.55 p.m.

 

Download Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting - 7th December 2015 (PDF) - 144 kbs  

 

 

 

 

 

 


Meeting Date 07/12/2015