Minutes 2016

Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 12th December, 2016 at 11.00 a..m 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 Lundy,
  • Councillor MacSharry,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • 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. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Gary Salter, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Mr. Donal Tinney, County Librarian
  • Ms. Olivia Heffernan, Acting Financial Accountant
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Mr. Keith Lyons, Clerical Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor H. Keaney, presided.

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor S. MacManus and Councillor S. Maguire.

 

PRESENTATION TO GARY SALTER, S.E.E. (ENGINEERS IRELAND EXCELLENCEAWARD WINNER):

The meeting was advised that Gary Salter, S.E.E. with Sligo County Council had recently been awarded Engineers Ireland’s Excellence Award in the Heritage and Conservation Category for his work on the restoration of Culfadda bridge.

The Cathaoirleach made a presentation to Mr. Salter on behalf of the Members and Staff.

 

VOTE OF SYMPATHY TO MARGARET MCCONNELL, S.E.O. AND BARTLEY GAVIN, A/D.O.S.:

Proposed by the Cathaoirleach, Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy is extended to Margaret McConnell and Bartley Gavin on the death of Margaret’s father, Hugh.”

 

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey and Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“To request Sligo County Council to suspend Standing orders so that Sligo County Council can take a position on the future of the Expressway routes in this county”.

 

BUS ÉIREANN EXPRESSWAY ROUTES:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey and Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to meet with a deputation from this Council to ensure that the Bus Éireann “Expressway” routes will continue to operate through Sligo”.

 

1.  MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING (RE. L.P.T.) HELD ON 26TH SEPTEMBER, 2016:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Special Meeting (re. L.P.T.) of Sligo County Council held on 26th September, 2016”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 26TH SEPTEMBER, 2016:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District Meeting held on 26th September, 2016”.

Arising from these Minutes, Councillor Mulvey enquired whether there was any update regarding the takeover by Sligo County Council of public lighting in Rockfield Manor.

In reply, Mr. T. Kilfeather, Director of Services advised the Members that the public lighting is not of a sufficient standard to do so.  The costs for bringing the infrastructure to the required standard must be borne by the Developer or under the Bond for the Estate.  This matter would be followed up on and the Members advised of the outcome of the enquiries.

 

3.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 7TH NOVEMBER, 2016:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 7th November, 2016”.

 

4.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF ANNUAL BUDGET MEETING HELD ON 21ST NOVEMBER, 2016:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Annual Budget Meeting held on 21st November, 2016”.

 

5.  SECTION 183 OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – PROPERTY AT 15 CIRCULAR ROAD, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of freehold interest of property at 15 Circular Road, Sligo to Margaret McCrann”.

 

6.  PRESENTATION ON SLIGO EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF VOLUNTEERING 2017:

Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services outlined the background to Sligo being chosen as the European Capital of Volunteering in 2017.

The Meeting was advised that the Opening Ceremony for Sligo is scheduled for Friday, 27th January, 2017 and will include a Civic reception and a concert. A sum of €27,000 has been received from the Department to assist with marketing and promotion. 

Mr. C. Hayes, Chief Executive told the Members that they will be given details throughout the year as to the events taking place.  There has been a body of work to identify national groups, e.g. Men’s Sheds, water safety, sporting organisations and wide range of voluntary organisations.  

Councillor S. Kilgannon thanked Ms. Clarke for the details provided and welcomed the opportunities for Sligo in the coming year.  It was felt that this will help to promote the county. 

 

It was proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council would be appointed as a member of the Steering Group for the European Capital of Volunteering”.

Members welcome the designation and agreed that it presents a great opportunity for Sligo.

With the agreement of the Members, it was decided to take Councillor Casserly’s motion listed at Item 49 on the Agenda in conjunction with this item.

 

49.  STRATEGIC VISION FOR VOLUNTEERING:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government to develop a strategic vision for volunteering which will set out the Government’s long-term plan for volunteering, particularly in relation to the positive social, educational and economic benefits of volunteering. There is no strategy at present and given the fact that Sligo has been awarded the title of European Capital of Volunteering 2017, it is now time that due attention be given to developing this vital strategy.”

 

7.  STATUTORY AUDIT REPORT FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2015:

The Chief Executive responded to queries raised by the Members.  He advised that

  • A delay in responding to the Auditor was largely due to a delay in getting the Chief Executive’s Financial Review signed off by the Department.
  • Information on the drawdown of the €750,000 for Burial Grounds had been provided throughout the year and there was no issue with the provision of further information.
  • References to the Financial Plan not being ‘Fit for purpose’ related to it being primarily predicated on staff reductions in order to achieve the Department’s required surplus.  This was the cause of the recent difficulties with the Library Service and O’Connell Street.  While the Council had met the target for 2015 and is expected to also meet the 2016 target, it will not be possible to do so for 2017 unless we continue to reduce staff.  In that scenario, the Council will continue to experience the recent difficulties.
  • The Council had been in correspondence with the Department regarding the Budget 2017 proposed surplus of €1.6 m. rather than the required surplus of €3.663 m.  Further correspondence and discussions are to be held in the matter. 
  • Following the submission of a Draft Financial Plan in April 2015 showing a surplus over five years of €7.3 m., the Department responded on 12th June, 2015 with a requirement for an additional €5 m. surplus.  The rationale used for the additional €5 m. related to the outstanding legal costs in respect of Lissadell.
  • Some of the additional information requested had already been provided in the A.F.S. where there was details of increases in revenue collection, % collection achieved and how the surplus had been catered for in the accounts.

Members’ attention was also drawn to an important aspect of the A.F.S. where deficits from 2011 onwards were shown, i.e. €6.31m in 2013, reduced to €0.57m in 2014 and 2015 produced a surplus, albeit with the additional €1m from the Department and a surplus of €1.6m this year.

The A. F. S. also contains further information regarding procedures and controls introduced in Sligo County Council and show a much different picture to previous Auditor’s Reports.

 

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

AND AGREED

“To note the statutory audit report on the accounts of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31st December 2015.”

 

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

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

AND AGREED

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

 

9.  AUDITED ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2014:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Audited Annual Financial Statement of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31st December 2014.”

Following further discussions, the following resolutions were brought before the Members.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council Executive when presenting the Annual Financial Statement for consideration includes an additional comprehensive report, in keeping with the recommendation of the Local Government Auditor, explaining in detail the differences between budgeted and actual expenditure by job cost centres”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That the Chief Executive provide the Council with a comprehensive report on the active discussions which are taking place in relation to the provision of new burial grounds at Rosses Point and Ahamlish, the report to include the dates on which the meetings and discussions took place, and the names of those who attended the meetings/discussions”.

 

10.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – OCTOBER 2016:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for October 2016”.

It was then

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

AND AGREED

“That future Management Reports include the list of meetings/events (excluding meetings in Sligo County Council premises) which the Chief Executive has attended in the month, the list to include date and venue of meetings/events.”

 

11.  APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO DISABILITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ratify the appointment of the following parties, having expressed their interest, as members of the Disability Consultative Committee:

Mary Tuffy, David Cryan, David O’Hara and Matthew Duke”.

 

12.  APPOINTMENT TO SPC 3 – MR. CONOR MCCARTHY (CHAMBERS IRELAND REPRESENTATIVE)

The Members agreed to note the appointment of Mr. Conor McCarthy (Chambers Ireland representative) as a member of S.P.C.  3 (Planning, Community and Economic Development, Arts and Culture) following resignation of Mr. Paul Keyes.

 

13.  I.T. SLIGO STEERING GROUP – NATIONAL “REACT” PROGRAMME ACCREDITATION SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor H. Keaney to I. T. Sligo’s Steering Group re. National REACT Programme Accreditation Scheme .”

 

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

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor M. Casserly to I. T. Sligo’s Steering Group re. National REACT Programme Accreditation Scheme .”

Members agreed to nominate both Councillor Keaney and Councillor Casserly to the Steering Group as Sligo County Council’s representatives.

 

14.  SUBMISSION IN RESPECT OF DRAFT FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT PLANS:

Mr. T. Kilfeather outlined the background to this submission to the Members.  It was noted that the closing date for submissions was 13th December.  This matter had been brought before the Members with a presentation at the September Meeting, there had been a period of public consultation thereafter and this was an opportunity to put on record all matters that are of concern. 

The draft Plan will be submitted to the Minister for consideration and it will then come back to the local authorities.

 

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

AND AGREED

“To approve submission in respect of Draft Flood Risk Management Plans.”

Councillor Healy said he wished to commend the work carried out by the local authority and said he wished to make a further proposal regarding funding.

 

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council that once the submission date is closed for the draft flood risk management plan that they make contact with the Office of Public Works seeking funding through either the Urban flood relief projects or the minor flood mitigation to address the floods issue and concerns of local people that live along the Owenmore River, the Unshin River and Ballisodare Bay”.

Mr. T. Kilfeather confirmed that Sligo County Council has made submissions under these Schemes previously and a further submission will be made in the new year.  It was noted that, there are a lot of criteria in these schemes and, where there is a “Drainage District” in place, funding for work is unlikely to be approved.  

 

45.  APPLICATION FOR FUNDING TO CARRY OUT WORKS ON THE OWENMORE RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES IN 2017:

It was agreed by the Members to take Item 45 at this time.

 

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

AND AGREED

“Calling on this Council to make an application to the OPW under the Minor Works Scheme for funding to carry out works on the Owenmore River and its tributaries in 2017.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that the Owenmore River is a drainage district and Sligo County Council allocate funding to do some maintenance of the river and some tributaries annually. The Owenmore has a number of tributaries with the Owenbeg and Unshin Rivers being the largest.

The catchment of the Owenmore is 65,000 Ha approximately.

There are a few houses that are in danger of getting flooded along the Owenmore/tributaries and an application for funding works to prevent this can be made to the OPW under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works Scheme, if such an application and solution meets the requirements of the OPW scheme.  The OPW do not fund the maintenance/improvement of the Owenmore River and its tributaries at present.  Land flooding is the biggest problem for landowners along the Owenmore River and its tributaries.

A National Catchment based Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) programme is being concluded presently by Engineering Consultants on behalf of the Office of Public Works. Sligo County Council is making submissions in relation to the flooding caused by the Owenmore River and its tributaries to these Consultants.

The drainage of the Owenmore is a complex issue, a detailed study and design for a scheme should be prepared initially. This would be a costly project and funding from any source would be welcome.

 

15.  DRAFT C.F.R.A.M. (CATCHMENT FLOOD RISK ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT) FLOOD RISK PLANS:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Draft CFRAM (Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management) Flood Risk Plans.”

 

16.  REPRESENTATION ON BOARD OF SLIGO TOURISM LIMITED:

The Chief Executive advised the meeting of the background to correspondence recently received from Mr. Joe Corcoran, Chairman of Sligo Tourism Limited.  It follows a review of tourism which had been undertaken resulting in a restructuring of Sligo Tourism. 

Arising from the review, the Board of Sligo Tourism is reviewing their Articles and Memorandum of Association.  A lot of work has been done in the background and this proposal from Sligo Tourism to include two Elected Members and one member of the Executive from Sligo County Council is part of the reconstitution of their Board. 

The previous close relationship between Sligo Tourism and Sligo Borough Council was noted whereas the focus is now on the entire county.

Following a brief discussion, the Cathaoirleach requested Joe Corcoran, who was present in the public gallery, to clarify some further details. 

Mr. Corcoran advised the Members that this is the end of a two year review.  The local authority is the lead partner within the new set up.  Fáilte Ireland is now, in the main, a national group.  Sligo Tourism is representing the local area and this has become extremely important.  There had been a huge amount of consultation during the two year review.

In reply to an enquiry from Members as to the reduction in membership by 60%, Mr. Corcoran said it was recommended to bring the Board to a more manageable level.

Following a further discussion, Members thanked Mr. Corcoran for the information he had provided and noted that the Members on the Board at present are Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Kilgannon and Councillor O’Grady and the remaining Members from various Bodies/stakeholders.

It was then

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council retain its 5 Elected Representatives on the Board of Sligo Tourism”.

 

17.  SERVICES AT LOCAL POST OFFICES:

At the request of Councillor Casserly and noting that a reply was awaited from a previous motion, the Members agreed to defer this item to the January Agenda:

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to keep their promise, as stated in the Programme for Government document (P.48), to protect and enhance the services available in our local Post Offices.”

 

18.  FUNDING FOR DEFIBRILLATORS AT G.A.A. CLUBS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

“That Sligo County Council calls on the G.A.A to help fund defibrillators for every club in the country.”

Members agreed to defer this matter until the afternoon session of the meeting to allow for a possible amendment to the wording.

 

19.  DEVELOPMENT OF SITE AT KNOCKNACULLEN, DROMORE WEST FOR HOUSING WAITING LIST:

At the request of Councillor Clarke, the Members agreed to defer this item to the January Agenda:

“To call on Sligo County Council to immediately develop the Council’s site at Knocknacullen, Dromore West, to provide houses for people on the Council’s housing waiting list”.

 

20.  LOSS OF RATES INCOME FROM GLOBAL REVALUATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the CEO of Sligo County Council to write to the Minister of Finance requesting that he finds a permanent mechanism to compensate Sligo County Council for this significant loss and all future losses outside the control of the Local Authorities, as this is a major annual loss of rates income resulting from the global revaluations. We stand to lose €267,375 and to a county like Sligo this is unsustainable”.

 

21.  NAMING OF BRIDGE IN BALLISODARE:

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

“That Sligo County Council would consider naming the bridge in the village of Ballisodare in honour of volunteer Martin Savage who is a native of Streamstown in recognition of the role he played at the GPO in the 1916 rising; and to call on Sligo County Council to initiate the process under section 192 of the 2001 Local Government Act to have the bridge named the Martin Savage Bridge”.

Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services reported that a Placenames Policy had been adopted in July 2015, with its implementation being overseen by the Council’s Placenames Committee.

Section 192 of the Local Government Act relates to changing the name of a street situated in the local authority area.  The provision applies where it is proposed to change an existing placename with a new one.  Where a local authority adopts a proposal under Section 192 it must seek the consent of the majority of the qualified electors in the street for the proposed new name.

Clarification is currently being sought from the Placenames Commission as to whether there is an existing placename for Ballysadare Bridge.  If no name is currently in place, the Council can refer the proposal to the Placenames Committee for consideration and a recommendation. 

If there is an existing placename on the bridge, the provisions of Section 192 apply as outlined above and the Council can refer the proposal to the Placenames Committee for further consideration and a recommendation in line with the Council’s Placenames Policy.

Councillor Healy thanked the Director of Services for the report and asked that this matter would be pursued.  Some descendants of Martin Savage were living outside of Ireland, would wish to travel for any naming ceremony and would, therefore, require some advance notice.

 

22.  STREET LIGHTING AT NATIONAL SCHOOL IN MAUGHEROW:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to assess and attain a quote for the costs of the works needed to erect street lighting on a pole which will address the safety concerns of the teachers and pupils regarding the lack of lighting outside the national school in Maugherow.  This building is also used by a large number of Community groups on an annual basis”.

Director of Services, Mr. T. Kilfeather, told Members that the

Primary school opening/closing times occur during daylight hours.  It is considered therefore that to erect public lighting at a location such as this does not represent sustainable energy use, nor would it represent efficient use of public funds.  In addressing the needs arising out of the use of the facility by local community groups, the most appropriate solution would lie in the provision of a number of sensor lights fitted to the school building and/or at appropriate locations within the school grounds.  

Members agreed to consider what other options are available and to try and ensure appropriate lighting is made available in the area.

 

23.  RAMIFICATIONS OF “BREXIT” ON IRELAND:

With the agreement of the Members, the following motion submitted by Councillor T. MacSharry, was deferred to the January Agenda:

"That Sligo County Council call on the Government (FG & The Independent Alliance) to appoint a Minister to deal exclusively with the ramifications of Brexit on Ireland".

 

24.  STRANDHILL WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT  AND MONITORING FIGURES FOR WILD ATLANTIC WAY:

With the agreement of the Members, the following motion submitted by Councillor S. Maguire, was deferred to the January Agenda:

“Regarding the upgrading of the sewage plant at Strandhill, can Sligo County Council clarify from Irish Water whether the increased loading, resulting from the classification of Strandhill as a point of interest along the Wild Atlantic Way has been included in the capacity design calculations for the new waste water treatment plant. Can the up to date monitoring figures for those using the WAW also be provided to the Council.”

 

25.  AREAS OF NATURAL CONSTRAINT PAYMENTS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Department of Agriculture for an increased ANC Payment. It is my understanding that there could be a considerable underspend (possibly in excess of €100m) in the Rural Development Program (budget of €580m) which I am asking be now paid out to farmers in the form of a second Areas of Natural Constraint Payment (ANC). This money would go some way towards covering losses farmers are now experiencing through poor market prices and increased costs resulting from poor weather this summer/autumn and Brexit related issues.”

 

26.  KEASH HILL WALKING TRAIL:

Proposed by Councillor Gormley
Seconded by Councillor Taylor

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo Co Council to apply to the Rural Economic Development Section of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional. Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs for funding to continue the Keash Hill walking Trail”.

Ms. D. Clarke reported to meeting as follows:

Sligo County Council can consider a future application to the Rural Economic Development Section of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs for funding for the Keash Hill walking Trail. No formal application process is currently open for submission. 

However, as the proposed trail is located in an environmental and archeologically sensitive area it will require assessments for both archaeological and environmental implications prior to any full application. These assessments will need to be undertaken before any trail development works can be considered.

Sligo County Council is in contact with Sligo Leader’s supported Rural Recreation Officer in pursuit of this objective.

 

27.  JUNCTION AT DUNALLY CROSS ON N16:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council Engineering staff immediately assess the junction at Dunally cross on the main Sligo to Manorhamilton road in the interests of Health and Safety and traffic calming measures".

The Members were advised by Mr. T. Kilfeather that this matter has been referred to the Council’s Road Design Team for their consideration.  They will assess the junction early in 2017 with a view to establishing the level of improvements which may be carried out at this location.  Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) will be consulted in the matter also.

Members welcomed the Director of Service’s report and also agreed that hedge cutting needs to be examined in this area.

 

28.  RENT INCREASES IN PRIVATE PROPERTY:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government and the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government to

  1. Protect tenants from unfair rent increases and guarantee they cannot be unfairly evicted;
  2. Regulate increases by linking rents to the Consumer Price Index;
  3. Revoke the right of landlords to evict tenants for the purpose of sale;
  4. Move from current 4 year leases to indefinite lease terms.”

 

29.  ALL ISLAND INDUSTRIAL PROMOTION AGENCY:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on Government to support the setting up of an all Island Industrial promotion Agency to ensure that key investment opportunities in Ireland are secured and developed.  This approach will build on the foundation of the Good Friday Agreement and has the potential to reap huge rewards for the entire Island.”

 

30.  STREET SIGNAGE IN BALLYMOTE:

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council provides street names on all streets in Ballymote".

The Members were advised by Mr. T. Kilfeather that a scheme of street signage would have to be designed and erected. If the signs were to be erected on buildings, the agreement of the owner of the building would have to be obtained.

There is no funding in place to do this in 2016 but the signage can be considered for funding in the 2017 Schedule of Municipal Works for Ballymote/Tubbercurry.

 

52.  LIMIT ON CONTRACTS UNDER RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME:

With the Cathaoirleach and Members’ agreement, Councillor Henry’s motion at Item number 52 on the Agenda was taken at this time.

 

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Social Protection to reverse his decision to limit new contracts under the Rural Social Scheme to three years.”

 

18.  FUNDING OF DEFIBRILLATORS BY SPORTING ORGANISATIONS:

Having considered the matter further, Councillor Casserly agreed to amend the motion discussed earlier.  The wording “the G.A.A. to be substituted with “all sporting organisations”.

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on all sporting organisations to help fund defibrillators for every club in the country.”

 

31.  FOOTPATH AT PROMENADE IN ROSSES POINT:

Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council engineering staff in the interests of Health and Safety immediately address the dangerous state of the footpath at the start of the Promenade in Rosses Point used by large numbers of people out walking".

Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that the Roads Department has inspected the area in question.  It is clear that water/silt is accumulating at the approach to the footpath causing pedestrians to have to step onto the roadway to avoid same.  Some minor repair works will be carried out at this location in the immediate term to address this.   Further repairs will be completed in early 2017.

Councillor MacSharry thanked Mr. Kilfeather for this report and for the manner in which staff have dealt with this situation.

 

32.  MONEY LENDING RATES:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Finance Mr. Michael Noonan and this partnership Government to deal once and for all with money Lending Rates as high As 187.2 per cent APR.Companies charging these high rates are Licensed by the Central Bank.”

 

33.  BED SHORTAGES AT SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Health to immediately engage with A&E Consultants to address bed shortages and tackle the rising number of patients on trolleys at Sligo General Hospital".

 

34.  ROAD WORKS ON R290 FROM BALLYGAWLEY TO LEITRIM BORDER:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update report on work carried out on the R290 from Ballygawley to the Leitrim Border”.

Director of Services, Mr. T. Kilfeather, advised the Meeting that surface drainage improvement works have been carried out between Ballygawley and Ballintogher. Warning signage has been erected between Castledargan and Ballygawley.

Safety measures have been carried out at Kilross National School under a low cost safety scheme. General maintenance of the road is ongoing.

 

35.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IN BALLISODARE:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to address the safety concerns raised by the residents of Ballisodare regarding the pedestrian crossing beside the Handball alley”.

Following Mr. Kilfeather’s report which indicated that the Enniscrone Area Engineer has received no complaints regarding this pedestrian crossing, Councillor Healy undertook to ensure that details provided to him were passed on to the Area Engineer.

 

36.  SLIGO-DUBLIN RAIL SERVICE:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Minister for Transport Shane Ross to ensure the Sligo-Dublin rail service is maintained as it’s a vital part of infrastructure for the county.”

 

37.  USE OF MEDICINAL CANNABIS:

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

“That this Council supports the use of medicinal Cannabis.”

The Cathaoirleach indicated that he had received an amendment from Councillor Henry and Councillor Taylor as follows:

“That this Council supports the use of medicinal Cannabis in a manner that does not amend the misuse of Drugs Act.”

It was proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That this Council supports the use of medicinal Cannabis in a manner that does not amend the misuse of Drugs Act.”

 

38.  INQUESTS INTO MATERNAL DEATHS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council requests the Government to progress the Coroner’s Bill as a matter of urgency, and that the Coroner's Bill will provide for an automatic Inquest into EVERY Maternal Death in this State.”

It was further agreed that a copy of this resolution would be circulated to all local authorities.

 

CHAIR:

As the Cathaoirleach had to leave the meeting for a short time, Councillor R. O’Grady took the Chair at 3.05 p.m.

 

39.  PULLAHEENEY PIER:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to extend the pier at Pullaheany to provide for craft to dock at low tide, also to replace rings for to secure boats, for 4 commercial fishing boats, 2Seaweed Companies.  6 boats anchor and fish out of the pier and endless Jet ski users, surfers and swimmers.”

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that Sligo County Council has carried out considerable improvements at Pullaheeney Harbour/Slipway over the past decade and a half, including a new road bridge, a strengthened and resurfaced access road, a completely new land ward section to the slipway/pier, slipway repairs, additional rings, a new concrete hard stand/turning area at the top of the slipway, a power supply and some coastal protection works.

The pier is a public facility and signage has been erected regarding keeping the slipway access clear and available for all users.

The seaward end of the slipway is exposed at low spring tides, rendering it difficult to use, for a limited period during the low tide phase. This is no different from virtually all harbours in County Sligo in similar tidal conditions.

Extending the pier seaward would be a costly undertaking. Other issues around the slipway also require attention and funding such as protection to the existing road and bridge, from the slipway to the bridge, protection of the navigation aid and a new river outfall protection structure for the Leaffony river outfall , to alleviate flanking flooding and inland flooding towards the Harbour Bar, resulting from coastal damage blocking the river outlet.

Sligo County Council will consider the request in the light of the above and other demands on limited funding and priorities.'

 

40.  SUPPORT FOR SLIGO BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT:

With the agreement of the Members, the following motion submitted by Councillor S. MacManus was deferred to the January Agenda:

“To ask for a report on the resources, either human, financial or otherwise, given to date by Sligo County Council in support of Sligo Business Improvement District (BIDS) and the projected annual support for this scheme.”

 

41.  DIRECT PROVISION SYSTEM:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on this Government to put an end to the direct provision system and the introduction of a humane reception system in line with international practice.”

 

42.  AVAILABILITY OF “ORKAMBI” MEDICATION TO CYSTIC FIBROSIS PATIENTS:

In outlining the background to the submission of this motion, Councillor O’Boyle read a letter to the meeting.  This letter had been received from Aisling Golden, sister of Gráinne Golden, a Cystic Fibrosis Patient who had died in February of this year.

Several Members joined in supporting this motion and agreed with the comparison between long term in-Patient stays in Hospital against the cost of the medication.

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Health Minister Simon Harris to ensure that Orkambi is made available to all Cystic Fibrosis patients in Ireland.”

 

43.  CONTROL OF OVERGROWN TREES IN HOUSING ESTATES AND BUILT UP AREAS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To request Sligo County Council to call on the Department of Environment to introduce Legislation as is in force in other European Countries for the control of over grown trees in Housing Estates and Built up areas”.

It was further agreed that a copy of this resolution would be circulated to all local authorities.

 

44.  REFUND OF WATER CHARGES PAID AND COMPENSATION FOR GROUP WATER SCHEMES:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Oireachtas Committee on water charges and the Minister, to return all water charges collected to the people who paid, and to put proper compensation in place for all group water schemes.”

It was further agreed that a copy of this resolution would be circulated to all local authorities.

 

CHAIR

Councillor H. Keaney, Cathaoirleach, resumed the Chair at 3.25 p.m.

 

46.  PROPERTIES IN THE OWNERSHIP OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL WHICH ARE RENTED/LEASED:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Chief Executive provide the Council with a list of properties in the ownership of the Council (other than local authority dwellings houses) which are being rented/leased; and that the Council be provided with details of the annual rental income on each of the said properties; and that the Council be provided with details of the arrears owing, if any, in respect of the said properties.”

Mr. John Moran, Acting Director of Services advised the Meeting that the report is being prepared and will be circulated to the Members shortly.

 

47.  PUBLIC LIGHTS AT “JOE DAN’S” DRUMMARTIN, ACLARE:

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

AND AGREED

“I will ask that 2 no. public lights be erected at the junction of Roads No. R294 and 448 at location known as “Joe Dan’s” Drummartin, Aclare, in the interest of Road Safety”.

Mr T Kilfeather DOS advised the Members that safety concerns at a rural junction such as this would be best addressed under a future low cost accident scheme and could be addressed with additional signage, amendments to the junction layout etc.

The introduction of public lighting at an isolated rural junction such as this might be inappropriate.   In any event funds are not available for the installation of public lighting at such a location.

 

48.  ROADS PROGRAMME 2017 – BANADA BRIDGE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask that road resurfacing be included in the 2017 Roads Programme at Banada Bridge, Banada, Tourlestrane where three roads meet and several accidents have occurred in the recent past”.

Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather that the location in question forms part of the Restoration Improvement plan for 2018 but can be considered for upgrade as part  of the Ballymote / Tobercurry MD works 2017, if this local authority receives funding in excess of the Restoration Improvement grant 2016.

 

50.  ROAD AT ALLEN’S CROSSROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to make safe the section of road at Allens Crossroad near the old handball alley at Cauraun travelling from Tubbercurry towards Cloonacool on road L4703 due to its very slippery surface.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather confirmed that this section of road will be considered for surfacing under the 2017 Schedule of Municipal Works for Ballymote Tubbercurry Municipal District.

 

51.  RESUMPTION OF WORK ON EMLAGHFAD OLD CHURCH:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on when work can resume on St Columba {Colmcille} Emlafad old Church and graveyard site Emlafad Ballymote which dates back to early 1700s and contains a military fort surrounding the graveyard. Works started in 2015 and stopped shortly afterwards.”

The following report was submitted to the Members by Mr. T. Kilfeather: 

Emlaghfad Church (in ruins) is a medieval parish church founded by St. Colmcille in the 6th century and was adopted as a Church of Ireland Parish Church in the mid 18th-century.

 

Emlaghfad Church and Graveyard is an important archaeological site in the ownership of Sligo County Council.  As such, it is deemed a National Monument and any works undertaken at the site must comply with the provisions of the National Monuments Act and the Heritage Councils ‘Guidance on the care, conservation and recording of historic graveyards’. 

In 2015, the Heritage Office was contacted by a local community group for advice and a site visit was arranged to discuss a potential heritage project for the site.  The site visit revealed that work had been undertaken in good faith by the local community to clear vegetation from the site, as it had become overgrown.  However, the works were not agreed or authorised by the Council, nor was the required archaeological consent in place.  The community group was advised to cease works, until all issues were addressed, this was agreed and has been adhered to.  The Heritage Officer, agreed to revert to the community group in order to further progress the project in line with best practice, but owing to other work commitments, this has not been done to date.

It is proposed that the Heritage Office/Area Office would liaise with the local community to facilitate management of the graveyard in terms of the items listed below and also to explore the potential for a future heritage project at the site.

  • Community Group to write to Sligo County Council for permission to carry out graveyard maintenance works (Phase 1 – vegetation control only) at Emlaghfad Church and Graveyard, Ballymote subject to the following:
  • S12 Notification to be submitted by Sligo County Council to the National Monuments Section, DAHRRGA (NMS, DAHG) for the works proposed and that no works to be carried out prior to the S12 being confirmed by NMS.
  • Local Community to liaise with Sligo County Council re Health and Safety requirements prior to commencement of works.
  • Local Community to confirm the levels of insurance in place (PI,  PL & EL) to cover the works on Council lands and to submit a letter to Sligo County Council indemnifying the Council for the proposed works.
  • Local Community to liaise with the Area Engineer (David Golden) and Heritage Officer (Siobhán Ryan) as early as possible to agree, plan and implement a work programme.
  • No vegetation (ivy) to be removed from the ruined church building within the graveyard.
  • The permission for Phase 1 works will be time bound and will operate for 1 year only, at which time the programme of works will be reviewed.

Sligo County Council will continue to liaise with the local community to progress this worthwhile community heritage project, subject to resources.

Councillor Mulvey welcomed this report and that the Council will continued to liaise with the community.

 

53.  ROSSES POINT PIER AND PONTOON SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with an up to date report on the proposed Rosses Point Pier and Pontoon scheme, particularly with regard to submitting an application for grant aid for the project for 2017.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that a Pontoon and Access ramp at Rosses Point will provide much needed safe access to and from vessels. The project has the support of many groups and boat users and is much needed on health and safety grounds as the existing Pier is regularly too crowded with leisure boats to provide safe boarding. Other aspects of the Project include the modest increase in length of the slipway which will improve trailer access and reduce tidal restrictions.

In order to be eligible for funding a foreshore licence is required. Draft conditions for issuing of same were received from the Department in October and we were satisfied with those proposed conditions. However we took the view that a fee of €13,000 sought as part of the conditions was excessive given the modest nature of the additional structure to be constructed. We appealed the level of the fee. However to date no response has been received against this Appeal.

Conscious the time is moving on and that a foreshore licence is essential to avail of funding we advised the Department on November 28th that we were accepting all the conditions including the fee and requested that approval and issuing of the licence be processed as quickly as possible.

The process now is that following our agreement the DAFM make a recommendation to the Minister of Environment. After the Minister signs the foreshore license, the license is then sent to the CSSO (Chief States Solicitors Office) for official drafting. There then follows a process whereby Sligo County Council solicitors will be contacted by CSSO to review draft licence.

We will be checking progress on these remaining steps on a weekly basis to ensure that the Licence is available to us in time to avail of funding in 2017.

 

54.  OPEN LIBRARY SCHEME:

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

“That Sligo County Council would oppose the national policy proposing staffless libraries and would not seek to go down this route as in some other counties. That this council believes the MY Open Library scheme, from the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, will inevitably lead to an erosion of services and will ultimately be very damaging towards library services.”

Mr. C. Hayes, Chief Executive, confirmed comments made by Councillor D. Mulvey that this is an additional service.  This service extends the Library service beyond existing Library hours.  The purpose of the Pilot Scheme is to identify whatever areas need to be tweaked.  It is extending the service to the local community. 

The Chief Executive added that he is aware of concerns raised by the Unions in this case.  However, he did not think that they have a reason to be concerned.  They may see it as a “staffless” library but the Executive of the Council do not see it that way.  It has worked extremely well in Tubbercurry and they are very happy with the results.

Ms. D. Clarke then reported as follows:

Sligo County Library service currently operates one Open Library service in Tubbercurry Community Library. An Open Library service was established as the first pilot in Ireland in November 2014. The service currently has 320 members who utilise the service outside of normal opening hours. An Open Library makes the library available to adults and supervised children from 8am to 10pm seven days a week but only on weeks when the library is operated with staff hours. Currently with the rolling closures of libraries in Sligo when Tubbercurry Community Library is closed the Open Library is closed as well. This is due to the additional workload created by the Open Libraries requiring library staff.

On the day following an Open Library session there is work to be carried out by staff to ensure that the library is fit for purpose. Such matters as dealing with requested stock, re-shelving of stock and maintenance of internet facilities and photocopying facilities in the library has to be carried out each day of the week with the exception of a Sunday morning.

The “My Open Library” initiative which is currently being rolled out nationally offered grant assistance to Library services to implement Open Libraries and in the case of County Sligo additional Open Libraries. Sligo Library service was not in a position to apply for a further grant as we do not have currently the staff to maintain an additional Open Library once set up due to the additional workload which comes from an Open Library.

The Open Library initiative provides extended opening hours, outside of the regular normal opening hours, to benefit the public who use the library service. A completely different clientele who cannot access the library during normal opening hours can use the library for reading material, facilities such as internet, photocopying, scanning and meeting space etc. The use of the term “staffless”  is a misnomer because as indicated above there is still a requirement to have staff carry out work to maintain the core services during staffed times, in addition, there is also the work generated by the Open Library service itself which is required to be undertaken by staff.

What the pilot Open Libraries in Counties Sligo and Offaly have proven is that there is considerable demand for the Open Library facility in particular during those unsocial hours such as early mornings late evenings and Sundays.

To rule out Open Libraries which is a community based library service on the false premise that they can operate on a “staffless” basis would be a regrettable step, in particular, as the local library is now one of the few if not the only neutral internal public spaces in rural communities and Open Libraries offers the opportunity to extend accessibility and availability to include unsocial hours.

The Open Library will not and cannot replace the work of Librarians who provide their expertise in terms of promotion of literacy, arrangements of cultural activities and collection development, along with providing support to individuals to realise their aspirations as part of lifelong learning.

Ms. Clarke and Mr. D. Tinney, County Librarian clarified further issues raised by Members, particularly in relation to security.

Following further discussions, Councillor T. Healy agreed to defer this item for a period of six months and to resubmit it at that time for a further update.

 

55.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to John Joe Doyle of Killandy, Bunninadden on the death of his sister, Mary Smales.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paul Richardson of Rhue, Tubbercurry on the death of his mother, Kathleen.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mairead Clerkin and Pauline Lavelle (Staff of Sligo County Council) on the death of their father, Dominick Hever of Carrickbanagher, Ballymote.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Veronica Gilroy of Rathedmond, Sligo on the death of her husband, Martin.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Therese Walsh and family on the death of her mother, Kathleen Richardson.

 

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Devona Finnegan (Sligo County Council staff) and family on the death of her mother, Mary Teresa of Donamon, Roscommon.

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

 

56.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that it was his intention to organise a Reception for Sporting Organisations in the new year.

A number of Athletes and Teams had achieved sporting success in recent times and, together with the “Cathaoirleach’s Awards” taking place on 14th December, a Reception was being arranged to mark this success.

Members were asked to notify either the Cathaoirleach or Meetings Administrator of anyone they wish to have included.

 

57.  CONFERENCES:

The Members agreed to note and approve the list of Conferences, as circulated with the Agenda.

 

58.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

The Members agreed to note the summary of proceedings of conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5) (f) of the Local Government Act, 2001.

 

59.  CORRESPONDENCE:

It was proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“To note correspondence circulated with the Agenda for the Meeting”.

 

60.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

61.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

It was proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“To issue an invitation to the “Metal Mariners” to attend a future meeting of Sligo County Council and make a presentation to the Members at an early date.”

These are a Committee who have identified a need for moorings all around Sligo.  This is the only county along the “Wild Atlantic Way” that does not have moorings available. 

 

Councillor D. Bree enquired when the Minutes of the Harbour Board Meetings would be made available to the

Members.

The Chief Executive indicated that this would be followed up on by Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services.

 

The Cathaoirleach advised Members that a notice regarding the Christmas lunch for Staff and Members would be circulated shortly.  This is due to take place on Friday, 23rd December in County Hall.

 

END OF MEETING:

The meeting concluded at 4.10 p.m.

 

Download Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting - 12th December 2016 (PDF) - 98 kbs

 

 

 


Meeting Date 12/12/2016