Minutes 2016

Minutes of May Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 9th May, 2016 at 11.00 am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Casserly,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Gormley,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor Henry,
  • Councillor Keaney,
  • Councillor Kilgannon,
  • Councillor Maguire,
  • Councillor MacManus,
  • Councillor MacSharry,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Grady,
  • Councillor Queenan
  • Councillor Taylor.

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Mr. Bartley Gavin, A/Director of Services
  • Ms. Patricia Guckian, A/Head of Finance
  • Mr. Donal Tinney, County Librarian
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Mr. Pete Murtagh, Waste Enforcement Officer
  • Ms. Dolores McDonagh, Senior Staff Officer
  • Mr. Damien Kelly, I.S. Technical Support Officer
  • Ms. Lorraine Fitzgerald, Staff Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

  • Councillor Lundy
  • Councillor O’Boyle.

 

1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE HELD ON 24TH NOVEMBER, 2015:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of Meeting of Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee held on 24th November, 2015”.

 

2. MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY HELD ON 15TH FEBRUARY, 2016:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of Meeting of the Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District held on 15th February, 2016”.

 

3. MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY M.D. – DRAFT SCHEDULE OF MUNICIPAL WORKS – 24TH MARCH, 2016:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Municipal District of Ballymote-Tobercurry – Draft Schedule of Municipal District Works 2016 held on 24th March, 2016”.

 

4. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 4TH APRIL, 2016:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 4th April, 2016”.

 

5. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – MARCH 2016:

Members raised queries, arising from the Monthly Management Report, in relation to:

 

  • Social Housing Strategy and commencement dates for various Schemes
  • N4-N15 extension to Rosses Point road
  • Fairgreen M.U.G.A.
  • W.B. Yeat’s Nobel Medal
  • Figures in relation to Budget headings (F04) Community, Sport and Recreational Development and (F05) Operation of Arts Programme
  • Cranmore Regeneration Plan Public Meeting
  • Housing Disability Steering Group
  • Ballymote Library – possible summer closure
  • Tubbercurry/Grange/Strandhill/ Ballinafad WWTP upgrades as a DBO bundle.

 

It was

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

“Noting that the Borough Council allocated a sum of €33,329 for the Fairgreen recreational project in 2011; and noting that the Council Executive is unable to account for the said €33,329, this Council requests the Local Government Auditor to investigate the matter”.

Mr. Gavin advised the Members that it is hoped to bring a Part 8 Planning approval before them in respect of the Knappagh Road development later this year. This would allow for construction commencing in mid 2017.

In relation to the Carrowbunnaun development in Strandhill, the A/D.O.S. clarified the situation in relation to site access and also ongoing discussions with the Primary School and Department of Education. Mr. Gavin also confirmed that the land acquisition he had referred to is to widen the access to the site from the Golf Course road and only for that purpose.

Mr. Gavin advised the Members in relation to remedial works, voids and refurbishments being undertaken.

It had been an oversight that, to date, the public meeting had not taken place in relation to the Cranmore Regeneration Plan. This would now be arranged in the near future.

In relation to the Housing Disability Steering Group, it is intended to have this item included on the Agenda of the forthcoming S.P.C. Meeting to be held in June.

Mr. T. Kilfeather replied in relation to the Tubbercurry/ Grange/Strandhill/ Ballinafad Wastewater Treatment Plant D.B.O. bundle and confirmed the deadline for Tenders as 8th June, 2016. It is expected that construction will construction in 2016.

In relation to the N4-N15 extension to Rosses Point road, Mr. Kilfeather advised the meeting that the T.I.I. are anxious that these works would go to Tender before the end of the current year with a view to construction in 2017.

The Tender process in relation to the Fairgreen M.U.G.A. is now underway. The works necessary for the laying of the M.U.G.A. can be done quickly. The €33,000 referred to above is available for the project and is in the Council’s Capital Account. When the Tender is in place for the M.U.G.A., it will then be examined to see what additional works can be delivered with the balance of funds to maximise the facilities at the Fairgreen.

Members welcomed Mr. Kilfeather’s report in this regard and, in the light of the contents, Councillors. Bree and MacManus wished to withdraw their motion.

Ms. P. Guckian clarified queries in relation to Budget headings F04 and F05.

The Chief Executive advised the meeting that had been his intention to deal with the Library matter under the next heading. The Monthly Management Report referred to the period to end of March.

In relation to the Yeats’ Nobel medal, this was a family matter for the Yeats family to decide where the medal resides. There may be an opportunity to have the medal returned to Sligo in the future.

In response to a further query, it was confirmed that while contact had been made with the Yeats family, the Council was then obliged to respect their decision, despite efforts made to persuade them otherwise.

 

6. UPDATE ON FINANCIAL PLAN:

The Chief Executive advised the Members that progress has been made in meeting Financial Plan targets.

The staffing complement is now 414 – a 35% reduction of the peak 2008 figure of 637. In clarifying the situation with the statistics given in Mr. Hayes’ report, reference was made to the impact on delivery of services and the loss of corporate knowledge. Mr. Hayes gave an example of the impact being that in Housing the option of reducing office hours is being examined. As the staff are not available, it may be necessary to revert to a morning only service to allow staff to deal with Housing applications and assessments.

In referring to the Library services, he confirmed that it may be necessary to look at rolling closures during the summer time again this year. Sligo County Council does not have sufficient staff to keep all Libraries open all of the time. Once a decision has been made in this regard, notices will be issued.

The Council is engaging with its Customers in relation to the closure of the cash office in City Hall. €2.63 million had been taken in at that cash office in 2014 but that had fallen to €1.54 million in 2015. Mr. Hayes did not see difficulties arising with the payment at County Buildings of parking fines, rates, fire call outs, scaffolding licences or housing rents. 44 customers have signed up for the Household Budget scheme, others have set up Standing Orders and others have opted to pay in County Hall. The Council will continue its engagement with its customers, particularly in relation to Housing Rents.

While the full financial saving for the Incentivised Career Break will not be met in 2016, it will be realised over the three year period of the Scheme.

An external issue of the site resolution fund has arisen where the Council has been advised by Revenue that it is liable for Retention Tax. Staff had been operating from guidelines received from the Department that have transpired to be inaccurate and is a matter that impacts other local authorities. There is, however, a €250,000 impact on Sligo County Council and this is being taken up with the Department.

A further external issue affecting the Council is Funding of the Local Enterprise Office, which will be impacted by €85,000 arising from the imposition of a national funding model.

In reply to a query raised regarding the replacement of the Litter Warden, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Members that it is intended to have an internal competition to fill that post. In the meantime, there will be someone in that post temporarily from the end of the current week.

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to seek an urgent meeting with the new Minister for the Environment, Mr. Coveney, to discuss this Council’s financial position”.

 

7. TO SET DATES FOR COUNTY COUNCIL AND MUNICIPAL DISTRICT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS:

The dates for Annual General Meetings were agreed as follows: Monday, 20th June

Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District monthly Meeting to be held at 10.00 a.m. with A.G.M. to follow immediately afterwards.

Sligo Municipal District A.G.M. to be held at 2.00 p.m.

Sligo County Council A.G.M. to be held at 3.30 p.m.

 

8.  PRESENTATION ON INTRODUCTION OF “PAY BY WEIGHT” SYSTEM FOR REFUSE COLLECTION:

It was agreed that Councillor Kilgannon’s motion would also be dealt with at this time.

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

“Sligo County Council calls on licensed waste providers to ensure that households with permanently incapacitated individuals are not unduly penalised under the new Payment by Weight system of refuse collection from 1st July, 2016”.

Mr. P. Murtagh presented the Members with details on the “Introduction of pay by weight waste collection system in Sligo”.

Mr. Murtagh outlined the history in Sligo, why pay by weight is being introduced, the relevant legislation, the Council’s waste presentation bye-laws, the system, national awareness campaign and what needs to be done locally.

Following a discussion where Mr. Murtagh clarified queries raised, Mr. Kilfeather further confirmed that there is no link between a waste Operator’s permit and fees they can charge. Members expressed their concern at this situation.

It was then

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the E.P.A. and demand that the waste companies who operate in Sligo city provide a household hazardous waste facility”.

and

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council call on the Departments of Environment and Finance to introduce a national waiver scheme to ensure households with permanently incapacitated individuals and young children are not unduly penalised under the new payments by weight system”.

 

9. TO APPROVE 2016 STUDENT GRANTS SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the 2016 Student Grants Scheme”.

 

10. TO APPROVE ALLOCATION OF GRANT AWARDS UNDER THE COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY GRANTS SCHEME 2016:

Members referred to the report previously circulated to them. Ms. Clarke, in reply, clarified that all Residents’ Associations that had applied were considered and funding recommended. In reply to queries raised, the Director of Services further confirmed that the Scheme had been widely publicised and that if the Scheme was not approved at the meeting, this would hold up payments to other groups.

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

To approve allocation of Grant Awards under the Community & Voluntary Sector Grants Scheme 2016”.

A vote on this resolution resulted as follows:

FOR: Councillors Casserly, Clarke, Gormley, Henry, Keaney, Kilgannon, MacSharry, Mulvey, O’Grady and Taylor (10)

AGAINST: Councillors Bree, Healy and MacManus (3)

ABSENT: Councillors Baker, Lundy, Maguire, O’Boyle and Queenan (5)

 

11. FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR GREENWAY FROM COLLOONEY TO BELLAGHY, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Transport Paschal Donohoe requesting funding for the feasibility study of the disused rail route as a greenway from Collooney to Bellaghy in County Sligo”.

Councillor MacSharry asked that the correspondence would now be addressed to Minister Shane Ross, the new Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and asked that Councillor Casserly might assist with this matter.

Councillor Clarke advised the Members that it was also his understanding that Deputy Sean Canney is seeking a study for the Greenway route from Galway to Sligo.

 

12. CARERS’ ALLOWANCE:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council call on the Government to immediately increase the Carers allowance substantially considering carers save the state Billions".

 

13. TRAFFIC FLOW AT CLEVERAGH/ PEARSE ROAD JUNCTION:

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

"That Sligo County Council engineering staff review the Traffic flow at the Cleveragh/Pearse Road junction as motorists are experiencing significant delays exiting from Cleveragh". 

Mr. T. Kilfeather advised the meeting that Sligo Engineering staff has not previously been made aware of any issues regarding significant delays at this junction. Nonetheless the process of collecting relevant traffic data at this junction has commenced. The situation will be reviewed when the data collection is complete.

Councillor MacSharry sought early clarification as to the manner in which this data is being collected.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned at 1.00 p.m. to resume at 2.00 p.m.

 

14. SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT AT CORPUS CHRISTI ESTATE:

“That we be provided with a report as to who is responsible for the maintenance and general upkeep of the grounds that the sewerage treatment plant at Corpus Christi Estate is built on”.

With the agreement of the Meeting, this item was deferred to the Agenda of the June Meeting.

 

15. ROAD SAFETY MEASURES AT SCOIL NAOMH MOLAISE, GRANGE:

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

“Can Sligo County Council repair the solar powered warning lights at the rear of Scoil Naomh Molaise, Grange. Also can yellow lines be painted at rear entrance to school to discourage parents from parking to ensure safety of children entering/exiting the school premises. Can the Council also explore the possibility of a crossing point from the parking area at the rear of the school to provide a focal point for crossing safely rather than the indiscriminate crossing which is the current situation. These points would help to ensure a safer school environment.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather advised the Members that arrangement will be made for the repair of the warning lights.

In relation to double yellow lines and a designated crossing point, these matters can be explored in consultation with the Board of Management of the School. Should it be determined that a pedestrian crossing is required at the subject location, a source of funding will have to be identified for same.

 

17. & 25. LABOUR COURT RECOMMENDATION – TESCO IRELAND:

With the agreement of the Meeting, it was decided that Items 17, 18 and 25 would be dealt with together.

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

“That Sligo County Council calls on Tesco Ireland to accept a Labour Court recommendation instead of attempting to force significant wage cuts on a large number of staff members”. 

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

“That Sligo County Council calls on Tesco to withdraw its threat to unilaterally change its employees conditions of employment, including its threat to cut employees pay; and further the Council also calls on Tesco to fully implement the terms of the Labour Court Recommendation (LCR21139) which states that Tesco should pay all of its workers a 2% pay increase and a share bonus.”

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

”Sligo County Council calls on Tesco Ireland to withdraw their threat to unilaterally cut pay and conditions of employment for Tesco workers and urges them to meaningfully engage with the Mandate Trade Union and to utilise the state's industrial machinery, the Labour Court , if necessary and to fully implement its recommendations”. 

Councillor Casserly outlined the background in relation to the Tesco employees’ situation. Recent statistics in the media indicated that Tesco are rated as the second most popular supermarket in Ireland. Tesco management want to decrease wages by 15% whereas the Labour Court recommendation is an increase in pay of 2%

Councillor Bree expressed his outrage on behalf of the long-term Tesco employees and further outlined details in relation to their pay and conditions and how unacceptable this situation is.

Councillor MacManus added that more than 1,000 employees would have their terms and conditions changed whether they agreed or not with a reduction in working hours and pay cuts. Workers should support fellow workers and no company should be allowed to erode workers’ rights and that further engagement is needed between Tesco, Mandate and the Labour Court.

 

19. CLOSURE OF FINANCE DESK IN CITY HALL:

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

“That due to the hardship which would be caused to many tenants of this Council and other users, by the closure of the finance desk in City Hall, this Council asks the CEO to reconsider this action”.

Councillor MacManus stated that, while he is cognisant of the situation in relation to staffing and the severe pressure that staff are under, a number of tenants have come to him in relation to the closure of the cash desk. In relation to the financial position of the Council, it was his hope that the new Minister will be more receptive.

In response to a further query regarding notification of the issue to Members, the Council was advised that a report had been provided to them in November 2015 detailing the fact that front counter services would come under pressure due to reductions in staff numbers.

The Chief Executive informed the meeting that he would have no difficulty in reviewing and reconsidering the situation but can only do so when there is more staff available. The Council is equally under pressure in areas such as Housing and Planning but, in terms of the cash office, there is simply not enough staff. The matter would, however, be reviewed in the event of more staff becoming available.

 

24.  COUNTY RECREATIONAL STRATEGY:

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

“That Sligo County Council provide the necessary resources to commission and implement a County Recreational Strategy in partnership with relevant agencies and interest groups in recognition of the huge potential for growth in this area and in order to capitalise on the benefits that strategic investment in recreation can bring to the socioeconomic development of the county and its tourism offer”.

Councillor Casserly outlined the numerous benefits that a County Recreational Strategy would bring to Sligo and how collaborating with the various bodies, such as Coillte, the North West Mountain Bike Club, Coolaney Mountain Bike Trail, Sligo Greenway, An Post and the other individuals around the county like David McGowan, who are trying to make a successful business in the tourism area would ensure a cohesive strategy for the county.

Ms. D. Clarke presented a report to the meeting and advised that while the Council does not have the funding for a separate Recreational Strategy, many of these activities, efforts and proposals are already enshrined within the L.E.C.P.

Ms. Clarke noted the role of the Sligo Sports Partnership and the overlap in various areas within their Plan, although these may not be under a specific heading of tourism, they come into play under mental health and others.  There was a discussion in relation to having a look at all of the proposals and projects with a view to bringing them all together under the umbrella of recreation and see how that might take shape towards the end of the year.

 

16. & 22. ROAD SAFETY PLAN FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CENTRE IN BALLYMOTE:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to facilitate a meeting with the concerned Residents in Ballymote to discuss the vehicle safety concerns on the development much welcomed Primary Health Care Centre at Ballymote”.

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

"Calls on Sligo County Council to work with the residents in the Marren Park, Earls Court, Pearse Road area of Ballymote and the local schools to devise a road safety plan and amend traffic flow if necessary in advance of works commencing on the new Primary Care Centre".

Several Members supported the above motions and highlighted concerns and issues that had been raised with them.

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Ballymote Area Engineer and the Road Design Department have met residents in recent times to discuss their concerns regarding traffic in this area and possible ways to mitigate traffic impact.

It is considered that the additional traffic impact of the new Primary Care Centre will be minimal and that most traffic related issues in this area are connected with pick-up and drop-off at the adjacent schools.

Roads staff will keep the area under review and will continue to liaise with residents regarding traffic and ways to mitigate traffic impact.

Members expressed their appreciation to the staff for the work done to date. It was suggested that the current car park could be used to facilitate access instead of parking. In noting the difficulties, it was also highlighted by Members that planning permission had been granted over two years ago and that it is now necessary for this work to be carried out.

 

21. EXTENSION TO PONTOON FACILITY AT SLIGO HARBOUR:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

“What progress has being made by Sligo County Council to secure funding for an extension to the Pontoon facility at Sligo Harbour?”

Mr. Kilfeather delivered a comprehensive report on the current situation to the meeting. Members thanked the Director of Services for the details provided to them.

 

23. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON R2777 ADJACENT TO GOLF COURSE ROAD AND ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, STRANDHILL:

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

“To ask in the interest of pedestrian safety, that the pedestrian crossing on the R2777 adjacent to Golf Course Rd and St Patricks Church Strandhill, be refurbished.

Such works should include repair/replacement of Belisha Beacons and repainting/up-grading, if necessary, of crossing”.

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Members that quotations have been sought for the refurbishment of the existing pedestrian crossing adjacent to the Golf Course Road and St. Patrick’s Church. We understand that the existing belisha beacons are somewhat indiscernible to motorists at certain times. Accordingly, refurbishment works will include for the provision of high intensity flashing beacons. The road markings are this location will be renewed also.

 

26. TREATMENT WORKS AT CASTLE GROVE ESTATE, BALLYMOTE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on the new treatment pump and tank in Castle Grove Estate Ballymote”.

Irish Water had replied in relation to this motion and Mr. Kilfeather updated the Members with their reply –

Sligo County Council Planning Authority has submitted a Taking In Charge application for the Castle Grove Estate, Ballymote on the 4th January 2015 in accordance with our agreed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Protocol.

Irish Water and Sligo Planning Authority have agreed a resolution plan which includes a list of remedial works and the preparation of as-constructed records and CCTV surveys.

On receipt of same and on the completion of the remedial works Irish Water will then be in a position to accept the taking in charge application.

 

27. SCHEDULE OF WORKS FOR ROSSES POINT VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“Noting the need for improvements in Rosses Point, including:

  1. the provision of additional refuse bins on the promenade
  2. the provision of dog fouling notices
  3. the erection of a handrail on the path to the second beach
  4. the erection of signage warning swimmers not to swim on the left (South) side of the swimming pool
  5. the provision of a small wall on the west side of the swimming pool
  6. the provision of additional ramping for wheelchair users
  7. the provision of seating on the scenic walkway linking the pier with the Yacht Club
  8. the resurfacing of the said walkway
  9. the provision of a footpath on the road linking the School with the Catholic chapel
  10. an extension of the bicycle lane from the entrance of the village along the promenade road,
  11. the painting of the “Beachery” building,

this Council resolves to ask the Executive to prepare a plan and schedule of works so as the necessary improvements can be implemented within a reasonable period of time.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the items can be examined individually by the relevant County Council Departments and appropriate measures taken subject to funding and resources.

However it is understood that arrangements are being made to paint the Beachery building in the near future.

Also works are planned shortly for the swimming pool and this will take into account the issues raised in the Notice of Motion regarding this location.

 

28. CAR PARKING AT COTTAGE CAFÉ, ROSSES POINT:

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

AND AGREED

“To request Sligo County Council to examine the possibility of providing further car parking close to the Cottage Café in Rosses Point. Extra parking is urgently required in this area for safety reasons”

Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather that the council will look into this matter as early as possible. Should an appropriate solution be found, a source of funding will have to be identified for the delivery of said parking.

In thanking Mr. Kilfeather for this report, Members requested that the planning permission for this development be examined regarding any condition relating to the provision of car parking spaces.

 

29. VEGETATION CONTROL IN OLD GRAVEYARD IN BALLISODARE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council for an up to date report on the Church/Abbey in the old graveyard in Ballisodare and what progress has been made to clean up this graveyard.” 

Mr. Kilfeather outlined a detailed report to the Members in relation to the procedures and protocols that had been followed to date by Sligo County Council in relation to these works.

Members acknowledged the work undertaken and assured Mr. Kilfeather that assistance and input from interested residents in the area would be forthcoming.

 

30. CUT BACKS TO HOME HELP HOURS:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the H.S.E. and the Minister for Health to immediately reverse the decision to cut back on Home Help hours”.

 

31. MILL APARTMENTS, BALLISODARE:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council would write to the new owners of The Mill Apartments, Ballisodare to see what proposals they have in respect of the completion of the development”.

Ms. D. Clarke advised the Members that the Enforcement Section had written to the new owners of this development – Comer Group Ireland – on a number of occasions seeking a meeting to discuss plans for a satisfactory completion of the development. To date, no reply had been received.

In reply to a number of queries from the Members, the Director of Services agreed to revert to them with a view to progressing the issue.

 

32. CONTROL OF DOGS ACT:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on the protocol that dog owners must follow when they have their dogs in public area ie; Beaches Parks and Public areas”.

Mr. Kilfeather presented a report detailing the relevant legislation and bye-laws.

Councillor Maguire indicated that a pilot project is underway with the community in Strandhill. The Director of Services agreed that, based on their findings, this project could be rolled out in other areas.

Several Members noted that this is a particularly prevalent issue at this time of year. It not only affects beaches with footpaths, playgrounds, walkways and other public facilities also affected.

 

33. INCREASE IN HOUSING SECTION STAFFING COMPLEMENT:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to contact the Department as a matter of urgency to seek more staff to deal with the housing crisis in county Sligo”.

The Chief Executive advised the meeting that this is an area where there is general agreement. While there are areas to be learned from the past in terms of social housing, Councils are involved now in building communities where the design of houses and neighbourhoods had to be addressed. Sligo County Council has the knowledge, the expertise and even the lands banks in some instances but need resources to deliver on Government policy. Mr. Hayes referred to the resolution adopted earlier in the meeting to seek a meeting with the new Minister and said this matter should be a part of that delegation.

The Chief Executive has been engaging with the Department in relation to this matter and is anxious to proceed.

While the Department had made an exception in relation to the recruitment of General Operatives following the allocation of €4 million roads funding received, Mr Hayes noted that the proposed meeting with Minister was seen as an appropriate forum to raise the various issues being discussed, including the Library, Cash Office and staffing complement in Housing.

Mr. B. Gavin advised the Members that the Financial Plan to which the Council is committed by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government for the period to the end of 2016 – 2019 is based on cumulative savings of €12.32m over that period. The bulk of these savings are to be achieved by reducing payroll costs through a number of measures including:

  • non replacement of staff retiring up to 31/12/19 (39 No.)
  • savings of €4.844m to the end of 2019 through the voluntary redeployment of staff to other Local Authorities / State Agencies (16 redeployed to date)
  • Incentivised Career Breaks (savings of €285k per annum for 3 years)
  • Review of Acting Allowance
  • the assigning of technical and engineering staff to state funded Capital Infrastructural projects, with consequent savings on Revenue Account. ( Savings of €1.6m on Social Housing Projects and €1.8 on Road projects are required under the plan.).

In Sligo’s situation investment from national level in housing provision is coming at a time when we are being obliged to reduce resources that are necessary to take advantage of such investment and national initiatives.

 

34. WORKS ON SUB-STATION POWER UNIT – PARKLANDS ESTATE, TUBBERCURRY:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

“To call on Sligo County Council to contact Electric Ireland to erect fencing around the metal substation power unit number 355040X located in the green play area of Parklands estate, Tubbercurry as this is causing concern to residents.”

Ms. D. Clarke advised the meeting that works are currently underway in Parklands, Tubbercurry to bring the development up to a standard for recommending for Taking in Charge.

It is hoped to include the fencing around the substation as part of these works.

 

35. SAFETY AT SLIGO PIERS AND SLIP WAYS:

“Ask the Director of Services to review safety at piers and slip ways in the county”.

With the agreement of the Meeting, this item was deferred to the Agenda of the June Meeting.

 

36. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON R297 (MAIN STREET, ENNISCRONE):

“Ask the Director of Services to allocate funding towards traffic calming measure on R297 Main Street, Enniscrone”.

With the agreement of the Meeting, this item was deferred to the Agenda of the June Meeting.

 

37. PRIMARY CARE CENTRE FOR TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council requests the H. S. E. for the up-to-date position on the their application for funding to progress to Design Stage the provision of a Primary Care Centre for Tubbercurry ”.

 

38. DRAFT COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2017-2023

UNCONVENTIONAL GAS EXPLORATION AND EXTRACTION:

“Noting that the Council at its February meeting agreed to consider the motion on Fracking when the draft County Development Plan is presented for consideration,

This Council now resolves to include the following text and policies in regard to Unconventional Gas Exploration and Extraction, in the Draft County Development Plan 2017-2023:

 

UNCONVENTIONAL GAS EXPLORATION AND EXTRACTION

It is a strategic goal of the County Development Plan to adopt the ‘precautionary principle’ in respect of development where significant environmental implications are involved, in particular proposals for unconventional oil/gas exploration and extraction projects/operations.

Further to this, the Council wishes to safeguard and nurture the unspoilt/green image and reputation of Sligo and the health of its present and future communities, centred on the rural characteristics of the County, agricultural activity, the landscape and its environmentally sensitive lands and water bodies – both surface and groundwater.

This Council is cognisant of the significant ongoing controversy around, and the significant proven levels of risk associated with, unconventional oil/gas exploration and extraction internationally and acknowledges that the high volume of public objections to unconventional oil/gas exploration and extraction internationally, nationally and locally relate to potential and actual adverse impacts on the environment and human health, including impacts on:

Local Communities;

Local Infrastructures;

Local Landscapes and Amenities;

Water Quality and Water Supplies;

Air Quality and Safety;

Land/Soil Integrity;

Agriculture;

Tourism;

Climate Change;

Local Businesses;

Property Prices.

Objections are not solely restricted to the above.

Applications for onshore exploration licences have been received for the Northwest Carboniferous Basin including parts of Leitrim and several other counties.

It is acknowledged by this Council that there is significant and growing public concern in respect to the social, public health, economic and environmental impacts that may be associated with unconventional oil/gas exploration and extraction in County Sligo and adjacent counties.  This Council will endeavour to protect the rights of the people of Sligo and adjoining counties to be safe in their own communities and understands that short term national policy can have long term and permanent negative effects.

In 2012 Sligo County Council adopted the following motion: “Recognising the dangers that hydraulic fracturing/fracking poses to water quality, to human safety and the general environment, this council resolves to work together with other local authorities in the region, to oppose the practice of hydraulic fracturing/fracking and we call on the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Irish Government to ban the practice of hydraulic fracturing/fracking North and South of the border.”

Having regard to the foregoing, the Council has set out the following policy with regard to hydrocarbon exploration and extraction

Policy (A) It is the policy of the Council to apply the precautionary principle to Unconventional Oil/Gas Exploration and Extraction (UGEE) projects/operations proposed within the county.  Given the scientific evidence, and personal testimonies, of the risks of UGEE projects /operations and with the objective of avoiding the risk of serious danger to human health or the environment, it is therefore the policy of Sligo County Council that UGEE projects/operations shall not be permitted within the County of Sligo.

Policy (B) It is the policy of the Council to carefully scrutinise any unconventional oil/gas exploration and extraction project/operation proposal outside the County where it may, due to geographical proximity, have a significant impact on the County and where available evaluation does not allow the risks to the environment of the region, the ecology of the region and human and animal health within the region to be determined with certainty.  It is also the policy of this Council in such cases to seek from the relevant authorities a comprehensive full life cycle Health Impact Assessment, together with a full life cycle analysis of all possible cumulative and permanent negative effects for the potential full development.

Policy (C) It is the policy of the Council, in the eventuality that an outside body or bodies takes steps to overrule Policy (A) above, that a comprehensive full life cycle Health Impact Assessment, together with a full life cycle analysis of all possible cumulative and permanent negative effects for the potential full development, will be required for any proposal for oil/gas exploration and extraction projects located inside the County, as a mandatory component of the evaluation of any such proposals.

 

Footnotes

  1. ‘Precautionary Principle’:- (http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0013/001395/139578e.pdf)
  2. Unconventional Gas Exploration and Extraction (UGEE) refers both to the use and full life cycle of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) of low permeability sources such as shale gas deposits, coal seams and tight sandstones.  The impacts of UGEE projects/operations to be considered are those arising from UGEE projects/operations in their totality, not just from fracking activities, including all stages of UGEE projects/operations, i.e., drilling, construction, commissioning, operation, decommissioning and aftercare as well as off -site and other developments.
  3. Including but not limited to the Compendium of Scientific, Medical, and Media Findings Demonstrating Risks and Harms of Fracking (Unconventional Gas and Oil  Extraction) Concerned Health Professionals of NY, July 2014 (http://concernedhealthny.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/CHPNY-Fracking-Compendium.pdf) ”

 

The Chief Executive said he had a statutory duty to advise the meeting in relation to this motion. Article 17 of Standing Orders states that “the Agenda shall not contain any motion which has been considered within the previous six months”.

Following a query from Councillor Bree regarding an earlier commitment to have the Draft Plan before the Members in April or May, it was confirmed that it is still the intention to present the Draft Plan to the Members by the end of May and that it will be an item on the Agenda to set a date for a Special Meeting for consideration of the Plan.

Councillor Bree asked that the motion be deferred, to be included on the agenda for the meeting when the Draft County Development Plan is presented. This was agreed by the Meeting.

 

39.  SURF RESCUE SERVICE FOR STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“Seeks the support of Sligo County Council in the development of a surf rescue service in Strandhill together with information and signage to the safe swimming beaches”.

Mr. Kilfeather advised Members of the current situation in this regard and submitted his report to the meeting.

Members welcomed the details provided and noted the ongoing discussions and co-operation in this area, particularly by Pete Murtagh, the Council’s Water Safety Officer.

Councillor Maguire asked that Mr. Kilfeather would enquire if telephones provided to the Beach Wardens could have the R.N.L.I. on speed dial. It was also deemed to be desirable that the Wardens would also be qualified Lifeguards.

 

40.  STRATEGIC INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT – DEVELOPMENT OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY:

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

“Seeks a report as to the strategic infrastructure and environmental assessment undertaken regarding the development of the Wild Atlantic Way”.

Ms. D. Clarke indicated that there was a link to Fáilte Ireland’s S.E.A. scoping and environmental assessment report which she would make available to the Members.

Councillor Maguire asked, and it was agreed by the Members, that this item be deferred to the Agenda of the June Meeting. This would allow Members sufficient time to examine that content.

 

41.  TAKING IN CHARGE – RATHOSEY ESTATE, COOLANEY:

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update and timeline on the taking over of Rathosey Estate Coolaney”.

Ms. Clarke advised the meeting that while most works carried out by the Developer to date had been deemed satisfactory, there is an issue with Irish Water. This involves the registering and paying for way leaves for water services. The Director of Services is awaiting further correspondence in this regard.

 

42.  30 KM SPEED LIMITS IN HOUSING ESTATES:

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

“To ask for a report on the proposed implementation of 30 km speed limits in Housing Estates has funding been provided and if so when is it going to take place. Also as part of the scheme is there flexibility whereby ramps can be provided in estates that have none at present”.

The Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather, reported to the meeting on the current situation. The report indicated that Sligo County Council is currently carrying out a survey of all housing estates with a view to implementing the 30 kph “Slow Zone” speed limit. Details were also given on bye-laws, the County Sligo Speed Limit Review, funding guidelines and speed limit effectiveness.

 

43.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary, Michael and Tommie Gorman on the death of their sister, Paula.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael O’Hehir and family of Strandhill Road, Sligo on the death of his mother, Breda.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Antoinette Kelly of Carrowcashel, Riverstown on the death of her father, Tommy O’Connell.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael Mulligan of Lavally, Ballintogher on the death of his mother, Annie.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mickey Somers of Maugheraboy Estate on the death of his wife, Ann.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Marian Scully and family of Creamery Road, Ballymote on the death of her husband, Berchmans.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended toJean Goulden of Ballinacarrow on the death of her father, John Nolan.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended toBenny Lynch of Farnaharpy, Skreen on the death of his mother, Mary.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended toClaire Davey and family of Carrigans Upper, Ballymote on the death of her brother, Gerard Golden.

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

 

44.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ultan McKenna of Ardkeeran, Riverstown on winning a silver medal with the Ireland Under 17 School Boys Team at the recent Home Nations Cup in Edinburgh. Ultan was also awarded Goalkeeper of the Tournament”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Martina Harkin-Kelly of Grange, Co. Sligo on her election as President of the Irish Nurses’ and Midwives’ Organisation (I.N.M.O)

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to David McGowan of Enniscrone on his new venture “Quirky Nights Glamping Village” at Muckduff, Enniscrone”.

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

 

45.  CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry

AND AGREED

“That the list of Conferences, as circulated with the Agenda, be approved”.

 

46.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

This item was noted by the Members.

 

47.  CORRESPONDENCE:

Correspondence circulated with the Agenda was noted by the Members.

 

48.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

49.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Under this heading, Councillor K. Henry asked that Members would support the current “Green Ribbon Campaign”.

“See Change”, the National Stigma Reduction Partnership and 90 partner organisations are rolling out a month long national Green Ribbon Campaign to get people talking openly about mental health problems in May 2016.

Members agreed with the importance of this matter and were supportive of this initiative.

 

END OF MEETING:

The meeting concluded at 4.25 p.m.

 

Download Minutes of May Ordinary Meeting 9th May 2016 (PDF) - 109 kbs  

 


Meeting Date 09/05/2016