Minutes 2017

Minutes of October Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 2nd October, 2017 at 11 am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

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

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Mr. Bartley Gavin, A/Director of Services
  • Ms. Siobhán Ryan, Heritage Officer
  • Mr. Donal Tinney, County Librarian
  • Ms. Aisling Smyth, Administrative Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Mr. John O’Hara, Assistant Architect
  • Ms. Karen Gallagher, I.S. Technical Support
  • Ms. Mary Farrell, Asst. Staff Officer
  • Ms. Sinéad Doherty, Clerical Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor S. Kilgannon, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor Clarke, Councillor O’Boyle and Councillor Queenan

 

WELCOME TO MR. SHANE CAMPBELL, C.E.O. OF I.C.B.A.N. AND STUDENTS FROM I.T. SLIGO:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed Mr. Campbell to the Meeting and advised the Members that a Presentation would follow shortly.  Students from I. T. Sligo’s School of Business and Social Sciences were also welcomed to the Meeting together with their Lecturer, Ms. Joan Morrison.

 

VOTE OF SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY OF MAIRÉAD DAVEY, TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extend to Seán Davey of Tubbercurry on the tragic death of his wife, Mairéad (née Marren).

Sympathy was also extended to their children, Shannon and Jason; Mairead’s parents, Kathleen and Michael Marren in Tourlestrane; brother John, sisters Kathleen and Geraldine and her extended family.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF  DISABILITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE HELD ON 11TH APRIL AND 8TH JUNE, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meetings of the Disability Consultative Committee held on 11th April and 8th June, 2017”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S TOWN TWINNING COMMITTEE HELD ON 12TH APRIL, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of Sligo County Council’s Town Twinning Committee held on 12th April, 2017”.

 

3.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF S.P.C.3 HELD ON 18TH MAY, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of S.P.C. 3 (Planning, Community and Economic Development, Arts and Culture) held on 18th May, 2017".

Arising from the Minutes of this Meeting, Councillor Bree sought further clarification regarding proposals involving three parties – I.D.A. Ireland, I.T. Sligo and Sligo County Council for a portion of the “Building Block” (formerly Waterfront House), Bridge Street, Sligo.

The Chief Executive advised the Meeting that, as negotiations are ongoing, a detailed report will be brought back to the Members when finalised.  It was suggested that this could be listed as an item on the Council Meeting Agenda and this was agreed.

 

4.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF AUDIT COMMITTEE HELD ON 15TH JUNE, 2017:

The Members agreed to note the Minutes of this Meeting.

 

5.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 26TH JUNE, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 26th June, 2017”.

 

6.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP HELD ON 30TH JUNE, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of Sligo County Council’s Corporate Policy Group held on 30th June, 2017”.

 

7.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 31ST JULY, 2017:

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

 

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 31st July, 2017”.

 

8.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 4TH SEPTEMBER, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 4th September, 2017”.

 

9.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF PROCEDURE COMMITTEE HELD ON 18TH SEPTEMBER, 2017 AND RESOLUTION REFERRED FROM COMMITTEE TO COUNCIL:

a) Proposed by Councillor D Bree
    Seconded by Councillor C MacManus

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Procedures Committee meeting held on 18th September, 2017”.

In relation to Item b) the Leas-Cathaoirleach, Councillor K. Henry, asked for clarification in relation to protocol for invitations received by the Cathaoirleach, and the procedure for delegating a Municipal District Chair or the Leas-Cathaoirleach to deputise.   The Cathaoirleach replied that there was a procedure in place but advised that he would consider the issue.

Also in relation to Item b), Councillor Casserly referred to a Meeting she had attended with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Shane Ross, and stated that if the proposed motion was agreed, it would set a dangerous precedent in inhibiting Members of the Council and Executive.

A discussion followed where a number of Members outlined their opinion on the protocol and procedures involved.

The Chief Executive indicated that, while issues of a political nature were a matter for the Members, there were implications for the Council Executive in the context of the motion before the meeting.  The Executive meet with Ministers, Ministers of State, T.D.s, Councillors, Opposition T.D.s and Spokespersons.  The Meeting was advised that, as an Executive, Mr. Hayes and his team were available and would continue to be available to Public Representatives.   As advised to the recent Meeting of the Procedures Committee, this motion would cause some difficulty as it refers to all cases.   His position, by its very nature, brings him into contact with Ministers and Ministers of State at events, functions, seminars and conferences.

b) Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus

“To approve resolution referred from Procedures Committee Meeting held on 18th September, 2017 –

‘It is the Council policy that the Cathaoirleach or in the Cathaoirleach’s absence, the Leas Cathaoirleach, will accompany Council officials to meetings with Government Ministers or Ministers of State in all cases except where the Minister or Minister of State directs otherwise.”

To substitute “in all cases except where the Minister or Minister of State directs otherwise” with “when any other Elected Member of Sligo County Council is in attendance”.

 

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“It is the Council policy that the Cathaoirleach or in the Cathaoirleach’s absence, the Leas Cathaoirleach, will accompany Council officials to meetings with Government Ministers or Ministers of State when any other Elected Member of Sligo County Council is in attendance”.

 

10.  SECTION 183 – PROPERTY AT FINISKLIN, SLIGO TO MR. VINCENT FOLEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of Lands at Finisklin to Mr. Vincent Foley”.

 

11.  SECTION 6 OF THE HOUSING (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT, 1992 – FOCUS HOUSING ASSOCIATION – C.A.S. 15 CLEVERAGH ROAD, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance to Focus Housing Association Ltd. in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme for the acquisition of a dwelling at No. 15 Cleveragh Road, Sligo”.

 

12.  PRESENTATION BY MR. SHANE CAMPBELL, C.E.O. OF I.C.B.A.N. (IRISH CENTRAL BORDER AREA NETWORK):

The Members were provided with a detailed Presentation by Mr. Campbell entitled “Ireland’s National Broadband Plan: Delivering on the promise”. 

This Presentation was a guide for the County Council and Stakeholders for the Central Border Region of Ireland/Northern Ireland. Among the headings in the Presentation were - Broadband enables economic growth, Policy interests of I.C.B.A.N., Contrasting ambitions, Report focus. The National Broadband Plan, Key findings, Coverage requirements and the next steps for I.C.B.A.N. and Councils.

In reply to queries raised by Members, Mr. Campbell referred to

 

  • more fibre being brought into the countryside,
  • the greater roll out of the National Broadband Plan should bring an improvement in mobile services,
  • Planning issues and how they are addressed,
  • Location of masts and the associated costs,
  • Other challenges including the Mobile Task Force and purchase of wrong hand sets,
  • Potential of Sligo, Leitrim, Monaghan and Cavan to be delivered by 2022 but, should more resources become available, it may be earlier.

 

The Chief Executive thanked Mr. Campbell for his presentation, referred to the three main issues identified and added that Brexit will be of such importance that it could be regarded as a fourth.

In noting concerns raised in relation to the negative impact this could have in rural areas, the Chief Executive advised the Meeting that the Council's role is to deal with the positives in this and to take advantage of what will come down the track.

 

13.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR AUGUST 2017:

The Members agreed to note the Monthly Management Report for August 2017.

 

14.  DRAFT GREEN FORT CONSERVATION PLAN:

Heritage Officer Ms Siobhán Ryan outlined the background to the draft Plan advising the Meeting that Sligo County Council (in partnership with the Green Fort Technical Group and with the support of Sligo Heritage Forum and the Heritage Council) had prepared a draft Conservation Plan for the Green Fort, Sligo.

The Green Fort, located within O’Boyle Park is a large bastioned earthwork and the last visible reminder of Sligo's seventeenth-century town fortifications. The Fort is an archaeological monument of national importance and is protected under the National Monuments Acts. 

The draft conservation plan had been undertaken to address public concern over the protection of the Green Fort, the low levels of public awareness of the heritage site and a desire to protect, manage, interpret and present the monument for the benefit of all.

Part of the development of the plan was to engage with stakeholders to ascertain their views on the draft Green Fort Conservation Plan.  Accordingly, a Public Information Evening had been arranged to take place on the 19th October, 2017 in the Northside Centre.  The Heritage Officer replied to queries raised by Members in relation to

 Feasibility of providing an Interpretative Centre at the Fort, cost of a geophysical survey necessity for meaningful consultations with the H.S.E. regarding ownership of their portion of the site, commending the Forthill Society for their work in the area and archaeological digs at the site with possible involvement of I.T. Sligo.

The Cathaoirleach thanked Ms. Ryan for her presentation and also for the work she carries out in her role as Heritage Officer to protect sites throughout the whole county.

 

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Draft Green Fort Conservation Plan”.

 

15.  REPORT ON DEVELOPMENT OF COUNTY SLIGO TOURISM STRATEGY 2018-2023:

Ms. D. Clarke highlighted issues/statistics raised in the report which had been circulated to the Members.

Particular reference was made to the “Wild Atlantic Way” and the significant impact it was having on visitor numbers.  The European market has shown faster growth with the domestic market showing signs of growth.

Members of Sligo Municipal District had received a presentation from Mr. Enda Candon and the Members in the Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District would be presented to in the coming weeks.  This Presentation had previously been made to Sligo Tourism, the L.C.D.C. and S.P.C. 3.

Consultation sessions have also taken place with Organisers of Events and with some of those involved in the food and entertainment sectors.

The closing date for submissions was the 20th October and, once all the feedback has been collated, the information will be brought back to the Council towards the end of the year with a final draft Plan for consideration.  This will also have to be accepted by Sligo Tourism.

The Members agreed to note the report on the development of the County Sligo Tourism Strategy 2018-2023.

 

16.  DATES FOR MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETINGS TO A) CONSIDER THE DRAFT BUDGETARY PLAN AND B) 2018 BUDGET MEETING:

The following dates were agreed by the Members

Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District Meeting:  Monday, 13th November at 9.30 a.m.

Sligo Municipal District Meeting:  Monday 20th November, 2017 at 9.30 a.m.

2018 Budget Meeting: Monday 27th November, 2017 at 9.30 a.m.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned at 1.00 p.m. and resumed at 1.50 p.m.

 

38.  LOSS OF RESPITE SERVICES:

With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, it was agreed to take item 38 on the Agenda at this time. 

The Cathaoirleach and Members welcomed some family Carers from “Our voice, your future” to the Meeting who were attending for the discussion on this item.   All Members outlined their concerns due to the closure of the “Solas Respite Centre” which meant that those wishing to avail of respite have to make a 320 kilometre round trip to Monaghan. 

Examples of some situations of those affected, together with acknowledgement of the remarkable work carried out by the Carers, were outlined to the Meeting

 

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Minister of State at the Departments of Social Protection, Justice & Equality and Health with special responsibility for disabilities to ask that he intervenes regarding the loss of the respite services in the region and when can the families see this service reinstated”.

 

17.  SURVEY OF ROUNDABOUT AT STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus 

“That Sligo County Council will conduct a survey of the roundabout at Strandhill to establish a safer crossing system for pedestrians.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the matter had been referred to the Road Design Section for their consideration.  Subject to resource availability, it was anticipated that design proposals for improved pedestrian crossing points at the location would be brought forward in the coming months. 

The Director of Service said it should be noted that, as there is no significant history of collisions at this location, it is unlikely that funding would be made available under a Low Cost Safety scheme.  Once proposals have been agreed therefore, a source of funding would have to be identified to bring about project delivery.

 

18.  UPGRADING OF ROSSES POINT WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT:

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to ask Irish Water for an update on the proposed upgrade of Rosses Point Waste Water Treatment Plant.”

Director of Services, Mr. T. Kilfeather, reported that Irish Water had replied as follows:

This project is at an early stage but Irish Water hopes to apply for planning permission for the project before the end of 2017. It will however be a number of years before the project moves through this planning stage to procurement and construction.

 

19.  TREATMENT SYSTEM AT CHERRY TREE PARK, RIVERSTOWN:

Councillor Baker requested that the following item be removed from the Agenda:

“To seek an update on Cherry tree Park Housing Estate, Riverstown, as there are ongoing problems with fumes from treatment system”.

 

20.  ADMINISTRATION CHARGE – GREENSTAR WASTE COLLECTION:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor G. O’Boyle, was deferred to the 6th November (Ordinary Meeting) Agenda:

“Can Sligo County Council write to Greenstar and ask for a breakdown of the monthly administration charge and how it compares to other counties also why did it change its schedule without informing customers.”

Councillor MacManus requested that the following item be deferred to the 6th November (Ordinary Meeting) Agenda:

“That Sligo County Council calls for the immediate withdrawal of the proposed changes to the waste permits regarding designated charging structures as proposed by the Government, as the new system for waste charging will lead to higher collection bills for householders. Further, that this Council calls upon the Minister for the Environment to establish a feasibility study of greater public ownership and the possible re-municipalisation of household waste collection.”

 

22.  COMMUNITY HEDGE CUTTING GRANT:

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

“For Sligo County Council to provide a Community Hedge Cutting Grant of €50 per kilometre to farmers, groups of farmers or local residents who cut or arrange for hedges to be cut on roads not cut by Sligo County Council with a minimum distance to be applied for eligibility e.g. 3/5 km.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather reported as follows:  Sligo County Council has a programme of verge trimming along National and Regional Roads, especially at junctions in the interest of safety.

Under Section 70 of the Road Act 1993 a land owner is required to cut back and maintain any hedges along the public road.  In some areas this is not taking place on county roads throughout the County. Sligo County Council can issue “Hedgecutting Notices” to landowners under Section 70 to remind them of their responsibility. 

It is understood that Clare County Council has had a grant scheme in place for communities to cut roadside hedges and that Leitrim County Council has recently introduced a similar scheme on a pilot basis.  Sligo County Council has recently received information on both these schemes and is assessing same. It may be necessary to receive further clarification from both counties on their respective schemes.

The funding and administration of such a grant scheme would be an issue.  It is also important to ensure that any such grant scheme would be an incentive to landowners to maintain roadside hedges and would not act as a disincentive to any landowners who currently maintain their roadside hedges.

Councillor Henry, in responding to the report, said he accepted that under the 1993 Roads Act there is an obligation on land owners to maintain their hedges.  However, in situations where the County Council intervenes and cuts hedges on the roadside, it causes annoyance for those who maintain their own.  As this Scheme is operated in other counties, Councillor Henry is interested to find out how it works. 

The Director of Services indicated that the figures were not available but said that he did not understand why, when there is a responsibility in law for landowners to maintain them, why the Council would take on that responsibility.  However, the figures sought would be gathered from the local authorities with a scheme in place and brought back to the Council.

The Chief Executive added that to bring in a motion such as was proposed would be setting a dangerous precedent.  Members should be conscious that there would also be financial implications from such a scheme.  Councillor Henry indicated that the precedent has already been set by counties Mayo, Clare, Leitrim and Cork who are operating a similar scheme and felt, therefore, that there must be some merit in it.  The Chief Executive said that the counties referred to have not accrued the revenue deficit that Sligo had.  In the coming months, the Executive will be bringing the draft Budget for 2018 to the Members seeking a surplus of €600,000 and this had to be kept in mind.

Following some further discussions on this item, Councillor Henry agreed to defer the matter to the November agenda to obtain the statistics he had sought.

The Director of Services advised the Meeting that it was a matter of prioritising resources.  The staff required to source the information were also currently dealing with the recent L.I.S. Scheme and associated works including what tasks can be delivered before the end of November, Clar programmes and other infrastructural services work.  However, they would endeavour to obtain the figures for the next meeting.

 

23.  PROPOSED CAR PARKING SPACES AND SIGNAGE AT “THE LITTLE COTTAGE CAFE”, ROSSES POINT:

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

"That Sligo County Council engineering staff provide a report on the proposed car parking spaces and safety signage outside the little cottage cafe in Rosses Point".

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Roads Department had recently commenced works in Rosses Point village.  Included in the schedule of works was car parking improvements in the vicinity of the Little Cottage Cafe. 

In summary works would comprise the following:

  1. Minor surfacing repairs at the entrance to the village (immediate adjacent to the start of the promenade)
  2. Installation of one set of speed cushions along the old village road
  3. Kerbing works around a portion of the green area at the entrance to the village
  4. Car parking improvements adjacent to the Little Cottage Cafe.

Funding was in place for items 1–3, while the extent of works carried out under item 4 above would be dependent on funding availability.

Councillor Bree advised the Meeting that he had not been aware of the provision of additional car parking spaces in the area.  Residents in the village had advised him that they did not want the village green turned into a car park and it should be protected.  There are more than adequate unused car parking spaces available without the Council providing further car parking for a private business. 

The Director of Services confirmed that the report referred to “car parking improvements” and he would clarify what exactly was meant by that.   Councillor Bree further enquired as to a condition of the planning permission for this business where a sum of €16,000 was to be paid to Sligo County Council in lieu of car parking spaces.

Councillor MacSharry asked that a further report on the matter would be brought back to the Council.

 

24.  TRAFFIC SAFETY MEASURES AT ST. BRIDGET’S PLACE (FROM PEARSE ROAD TO MAIL COACH ROAD):

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council engineering staff asses the need for urgent traffic safety measures along St Bridget's Place from Pearse Road to Mail Coach road in the interest of Health & Safety".

The Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather, advised Members that subject to resource availability and following the completion of ongoing water services infrastructural works along Lower Pearse Road, the Roads Department will seek to undertake a traffic survey in and around the vicinity of St. Brigid’s Place.  The information obtained will be used to determine whether or not traffic calming measures are necessitated at this location.

In thanking the Director for his report, Councillor MacSharry added that travelling this section of road motorists had, on occasions, to go up on the kerb to get past.  Residents of the area were also entitled to park their vehicles outside their homes, Councillor MacSharry noted.

 

25.  BEACH WHEELCHAIR PROGRAMME:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive what progress has been made in regard to the roll out of a Beach Wheelchair Programme for 2018; if beaches have been identified and if funding has been sought for the programme?”

The Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather that Sligo County Council has considered the Beach Wheelchair Programme. It was rolled out initially by Wexford County Council, a number of other Local Authorities have now provided Beach wheelchairs at various locations in the country.

The two beach wheelchairs used are the Hippocamp and the De Bug which are robust, multifunctional and multi user, however some level of mobility is required of the individual to get in and out of the chair, with the cost of such chairs being approximately € 3,000 per unit.

The main considerations for the suitability of a Beach Wheelchair are as follows;

  • Choice of Beach- the Topography, sand type and beach status
  • Style of chair-meet the needs of target audience, usability and safety
  • Logistics of day to day service-Storage, staffing, management of the service and insurance.

For the programme to be successful it is vital to have appropriate partners, such as local businesses to store and manage the day to day service. Some local businesses have funded the beach wheelchairs for other Local Authorities.

At present Sligo County Council do not have a funding outlet to purchase the beach wheelchair or any appropriate partners. Funding for this matter could be considered for 2018 draft Budget but as outlined above there are other elements to implementing a Programme. These could be considered if a funding source was identified.

In supporting the motion, Councillor Maguire said this is a very worthwhile motion. 

Councillor Casserly advised the Meeting that she had been contacted by a business who is willing to get involved and sponsor a chair.

In reply on his motion, Councillor Bree thanked the Director of Services and asked that he would contact his counterpart in Donegal County Council to enquire how they operated their Scheme.

 

26.  SURVEY OF OWENMORE RIVER:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update report regarding the survey on the Owenmore river and when will they be in a position to write to the Minister for the O.P.W. to ask when will funding be available in relation to Flood Risk areas in Sligo and also request an update report in relation to the Flood Risk Management scheme in Rathbraughan.”

The Members were advised by the Director of Services that a consultant has been engaged to do a survey of the river and to identify the environmental constraints to be considered in carrying out works on the river. We have recently requested the Consultants to submit a proposal to us to extend the extent of the survey to deal with concerns of residents in Collooney and Ballisodare. We hope to have that proposal very shortly.

The Survey should commence this month. The Consultants will engage with the Owenmore Drainage Committee, landowner representatives along the river etc. 

The report when completed, will

  1. Identify the obstructions in the river channel
  2. Specify the measures required to be done to minimise damage to the environment and consult with IFI,
  3. Prioritise the works to be done to get best value for money.

When the works report is complete we will be in a position to look for any grant funding for drainage that may be available (in addition to the money made available annually by Sligo County Council) to maintain the river channel in a reasonable condition.

Councillor Healy, in replying on his motion, welcomed the inclusion of Collooney and Ballisodare in the survey and asked that this matter would be kept high on the Council’s agenda.

 

27.  UPGRADING OF “THE ROCKS” AREA AT GIBRALTAR, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council seeks funding for the upgrading of Gibraltar, Sligo known as The Rocks”.

While the Sligo & Environs Development Plan has contained a specific objective for the development of a linear park linking Gibraltar to Sligo Docklands’ there are no current plans to progress this objective, nor to upgrade/refurbish the Gibraltar Amenity Area.  It is not considered feasible that any scheme will be progressed in the short to medium term. 

Nevertheless, the Executive are mindful of the need to improve this area and will continue to monitor all/any funding opportunities which may present in this regard, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.

 

28.  PROMOTION OF SLIGO AT I.W.A.K. (IRELAND WEST AIRPORT, KNOCK):

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council once more makes contact with the Management of Knock International Airport requesting them to review the evidence of county Sligo at the airport; Sligo being one of the Councils subscribing on a yearly basis to its ongoing finances”.

Councillor O’Grady outlined the background to her listing of this motion on the Agenda.  In particular, the lack of evidence of any Sligo involvement at the airport.  Also, having enquired at the information desk about suggested destinations in the area, she had been advised to travel south. 

In supporting the motion, Councillor Keaney agreed that, on his last visit to I.W.A.K., that there are no promotional items for Sligo at the Airport.  There is also a long entrance route to the airport compound providing an opportunity for promotional signage and there are only one or two signs.

In reply to issues raised by several Members, Ms. Clarke, Director of Services reported that Sligo County Council, along with Mayo County Council on behalf of the five other Local Authorities involved in the I.W.A.K./L.A. Partnership successfully applied for funding in 2016 to the then Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs under the Rural Economic Development Zone (REDZ) Scheme – Flagship projects, and secured €400,000 to pursue delivery of a project at Knock airport which included a  dedicated tourism Discovery Centre at the airport, joint regional marketing/promotional signage and display materials and a Discovery Centre Management Plan which will outline how the ongoing management of the Discovery Centre will be operated into the future.

A Working group made up of officials from each of the 7 LA’s together with a representative of IWAK, oversees the implementation of the project.

One of the reasons this project was pursued by the LA’s was to increase the profile of each of the county’s and promote their product offering for visitors arriving at the airport. 

The project, while still very much in the implementation phase will try to ensure that the visitor experience is optimised when arriving into the terminal building.  It will introduce state of the art Discovery Centre experience, comparable with best practice elsewhere, with specific visitor information relating the best of what is to offer in each county. There will be dedicated digital signage internally within the terminal building in the arrivals area and externally on the approach road to the airport which will amplify tourism related offerings available throughout the region. The digital signage will also have capacity and space for specific marketing programmes in response to local events such as for example Sligo Races, Sligo Live, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day, Enniscrone Black Pig Festival, Tread Softly Food Fairs, etc.

The operational logistics of how each LA will maximise their profile and tourism product offering for the benefit of the region, once the Discovery Centre is constructed, will be considered and outlined in the Management Plan which has yet to be completed as part of the funding secured. The timing of significant local events particularly at times such as Christmas, Easter and peak holiday times etc when the airport will be at its busiest will be coordinated through the IWAK REDZ Partnership as part of the management plan proposed.

The procurement of the design for the Centre is underway as well as the procurement of the digital and marketing signage. It is anticipated that the project will be completed at the end of the year or early 2018.

The Chief Executive advised the Meeting that, in the short term, he would be taking up the issues raised by the Members.  In particular, he shared the Members’ concerns regarding customers being referred ‘south’.  It was noted that there is one sign when exiting the airport that displays Sligo prominently.  The project referred to in Ms. Clarke’s report would be looked at in the coming months but he would be taking up the other issues in the meantime.

 

29.  REVIEW OF TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON THE OAKFIELD ROAD, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council review traffic calming measures on the Oakfield Road”.

The Director of Services reported to the meeting that subject to resource availability, over the coming months the Roads Department will undertake an assessment of traffic volumes / speeds along the Oakfield Road.  This information will be used to determine precisely where and to what extent traffic calming measures may be required along the Oakfield Road.

 

31.  REQUEST TO N.S.A.I. FOR VOICE ACTIVATION UNITS ON ALL FUEL PUMPS ON FORECOURTS:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to write to the N.S.A.I.(National Standards Authority Ireland) who certify all fuel pumps that they must have voice activation on all fuel pumps in forecourts saying THIS IS DIESEL when a diesel pump handle is lifted up before filling fuel into vehicle.

Numerous people are discovering too late that a €20 fill of fuel can cost up to €100 if they notice before they drive away or if they drive away it can cost thousands of Euros to repair the damage as many filling stations already have this.  The petrol pump must show clearly it is UNLEADED PETROL not just UNLEADED”.

 

32.  REQUEST FOR REPAIRS TO ROAD L1603 (BALLYMOTE TO TEMPLEHOUSE):

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to fund repairs to address the worsening condition of road L1603 from Ballymote towards Templehouse. This busy stretch of road connects the N17 to Ballymote. 

"Eagles Flying" and Templehouse Estate are very successful tourist attraction and we are very lucky to have such facilities along this road outside Ballymote but the various dips and hollows are making it dangerous for motorists .”

The L-1603 at Camross is included in the 2018 Road Restoration programme. Sligo County Council will carry out a temporary repair to the bad dip in the road further out in the coming weeks, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.

 

33.  FUNDING FOR “OLD FAIR DAY FESTIVAL”,

TUBBERCURRY:

As items 33 and 37 on the Agenda both related to fundign for the “Old Fair Day Festival” in Tubbercurry, the Cathaoirleach indicated that he would deal with both items at this time.

 

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Cllrs. M. Gormley and P. Taylor

“I call on Sligo County Council to fund the Old fair day festival in Tubbercurry to the amount of at least €5000 which runs for a week annually in south Sligo.

This festival is a community based voluntarily led event which is not for profit.  This event attracts thousands of visitors every year show casing local Irish culture, local enterprise, small business and skilled crafts at its best. 

As one of the biggest tourist attractions in Sligo incorporating  Irish history-crafts-culture- food and all strands of society and promoting local enterprise to show case their produce. This is a huge boost to the local community for Tubbercurry’s business community notably hotels, restaurants, shops, etc.

I am calling on Sligo County Council to fund this event directly or jointly as Sligo County Council is the accounting officer of all payments from Sligo Leader Partnership.”

 

Proposed by Cllrs. M. Gormley and P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

“Recognising the importance of the Old Fair Day Festival to Tubbercurry, to South Sligo and Co Sligo which is in existence for the past 32 years this council acknowledges the contribution it is making in the promotion of our heritage, arts and crafts by providing a grant of €15,000 per annum”.

Members outlined the background to the submission of these motions.  This had been following a public meeting with the Festival Organisers recently and they thanked the Chief Executive for his attendance.

Following enquiries from some Members as to whether this was the appropriate forum to be discussing an application, the Chief Executive confirmed that this should be dealt with in line with the policy adopted by the Council. 

Following a further discussion where the Director of Services and Chief Executive clarified queries from Members, the Chief Executive advised the Meeting that the Executive would engage with the Organisers of Events and grants made in accordance with the Council’s policy. 

It was further noted that some groups had missed deadlines for applying for grant assistance under various headings in the past.  Members were encouraged to contact local groups and organisations and advise them of funding opportunties and relevant closing dates.

 

30.  SUPPORT FOR RETURN OF FLEADH CHEOIL NA H-ÉIREANN TO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council would fully endorse the Fleadh coming back to Sligo at its earliest convenience in light of the fact that all 71 members of Sligo Food Trail would also fully endorse the Fleadh coming back to Sligo.”

Councillor Henry pointed out that agreeing a destination for Fleadh Cheoil na h-Éireann is not a matter for Sligo County Council.  Hosting the Event, as had been done by the Fred Finn Branch in the past, is a huge undertaking.  It is up to a Branch to apply and Members agreed that the Council would be very supportive of any Branch submitting an application.

 

34.  E. U. FUNDING SCHEME – WIFI4EU:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Communications to take full and immediate advantage of the new EU funding scheme ‘WIFI4EU' which proposes to establish a scheme offering free WIFI connections in spaces where public services are offered, such as public administrations, libraries and hospitals as well as outdoor spaces accessible to the general public and also to connect our communities and that rural communities in particularly are provided for.”

 

35.  PRIORITISATION FOR LOCAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Clarke, was deferred to the 6th November (Ordinary Meeting) Agenda:

“To call on Sligo County Council, with regards to the local improvement scheme (LIS)  to give priority to people who live on roads, 1, People with disability, 2, roads with occupied Homes, 3, roads with no Homesin to farms.”

 

36.  WAITING TIMES FOR PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS FOR DOMICILIARY CARE ALLOWANCES:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Minister Regina Doherty to take urgent steps to tackle the waiting times for the processing of Domiciliary Care Allowance.”

 

BOOK OF CONDOLENCES – PATRICIA KNATCHBULL:

With the Cathaoirleach’s permission, Councillor Keaney advised the Meeting that a Memorial Service had been held in Mullaghmore.  Some Members had indicated that they were unable to attend so he had brought the Book of Condolences to County Hall to afford them the opportunity to sign it if they so wished.

 

39.  LIFE SAVING EQUIPMENT BILL:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council support the Life Saving Equipment Bill which seeks to introduce a new criminal offence of interfering with or causing damage to life saving equipment such as lifebuoys and defibrillators."

 

40.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF CASTLEGROVE ESTATE:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council when was Castlegrove Estate taken in charge of the Council as there is conflicting information being provided from different departments within the Council, and to ask Sligo County Council to improve sight lines existing Castlegrove onto the regional road.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that a motion was passed by Sligo County Council to commence the taking in charge process in March 2017. 

The process of taking this estate in charge is underway with the proposal to take roads in charge to be advertised in the local press shortly.  The Ballymote Area Engineer is actively following up on a proposal to improve the sightlines at the junction. This Scheme is subject to sufficient funds being available to carry out the work.

 

41.  RIGHT TO READ CAMPAIGN – SLIGO LIBRARY SERVICE:

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

AND AGREED

“Recognising Sligo Library Service is currently leading the ‘Right to Read Campaign’ supporting literacy here in County Sligo and further their integral role within the educational & cultural life of our communities, this Council asks for a report regarding:

  1. What progress has been made to progress an application for funding for a new-build Central Library fitting for Sligo City;

The current per capita spend on book stock [considering the per capita national standards and benchmarks target is €3.77].”

Ms. D. Clarke reported that (a) A new modern Library facility is required to deliver the growing number of services that is now expected from a Library Service and the provision of this has been prioritised by SCC for quite some time. However, a Libraries Capital Programme is currently not in existence or available from the DR&CD who now has responsibility for Libraries services nationally.

In May 2015, the Council submitted an expression of interest to the then DEC&LG outlining our need for a new Library to serve the local population of Sligo Town and hinterland of up to 45,000 persons approximately in the anticipation that if monies became available within the Dept for Library Capital Programme that we would be considered. The case for a new Central Library had already been recognised by the Department who had originally allocated €6.4million in 2006 but subsequently, due to the national financial crisis, funding for capital projects were withdrawn or ceased in 2009.

Our expression of interest to the DEC&LG in May 2015 was based on a complete revamp of the existing Library Stephen St site to incorporate the Manse and Church buildings which was based on the feasibility study commissioned in 2007 by the Council and which was undertaken by ABK Architects. The total area proposed at that time included a total of 2,660sq mtrs (HQ – 900sq mtrs + Central Library – 1769sq mtrs) at a cost of €6.8m.

The Department have advised that the development of Sligo Central library and all other proposals on hand for funding will be reconsidered should additional capital monies become available.

This is a matter that will be kept under constant review.

(b) Provision is made for the Book Fund on an annual basis in the determination of the Budget. SCC provided a figure of €60,000 in 2017 and previous years Budgets for the Book Fund. This makes current per capita book fund spend at €0.92.

 

LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH:

Leas-Cathaoirleach, Councillor K. Henry, took the Chair at 3.55 p.m. and the Cathaoirleach resumed the Chair at 4.05 p.m.

 

49.  UPGRADING OF BALLYMOTE PLAYGROUND:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that he would take Item 49 at this time to allow Councillor Henry attend another appointment.

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

AND AGREED

“To ask for an update on the upgrade to Ballymote Playground and an outline of the works to be carried out and expected commencement and completion date.”

Ms. Clarke, Director of Services advised the Meeting that Sligo County Council has secured funding of €19,200 in total for the refurbishment of the four Council owned playgrounds at Ballymote, Ballinacarrow, Dromore West and Riverstown.  €14,000 of this sum had been sourced from the Department of Community and Youth Affairs under the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation 2017.

The Director of Services outlined the background to the Tender process and works envisaged which, in their entirety, would take approximately three to four weeks. 

It was noted that a preliminary site visit was due to take place in the coming days and, as soon as a start date was agreed with the Contractor, local Representatives and Communities involved would be notified.

 

42.  UPDATE ON PROVISION OF H.S.E. PRIMARY CARE CENTRE IN TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“ That this Council requests from the HSE the up-to-date position on the provision of a modern primary care centre in Tubbercurry for which they have agreed to provide”.

 

43.  REMIT OF MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Health to broaden the remit of the mental health commission to encompass oversight of residential facilities in the community.”

 

44.  UPGRADING WORKS ON STRANDHILL WASTE WATER PLANT:

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

AND AGREED

“Ask Sligo County Council the date for commencement of upgrading works on the Strandhill Waste water plant.”

Mr. T. Kilfeather advised the Members that Irish Water had replied as follows:

Irish Water is upgrading four wastewater treatment plants in Tubbercurry, Grange, Strandhill and Ballinafad which will be carried out as part of one contract. Irish Water has completed the tender process for this contract. The recommended tender has been approved.

An oral hearing was undertaken by An Bord Pleanala in relation to an outstanding wayleave and this was confirmed in August 2017. It is proposed to sign the contract with the successful Contractor in the coming weeks at which time a further update will be issued.

In reply to queries raised, the Director of Services confirmed that the commencement date of the 21 month contract will be a matter for discussion with the successful Tenderer. 

 

45.  APPOINTMENT OF BEACH WARDENS AT STRANDHILL BEACH:

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

AND AGREED

“Seek confirmation that Sligo County Council will appoint a beach warden 7 days per week during the Summer to work at Strandhill beach.”

The Meeting was advised by the Director of Services that the Executive are currently considering a number of options -  

  1. To appoint a Beach Warden continuously throughout the summer period.  There are significant budgetary implications with this option.
  2. We are also exploring an on call option - to have a sufficient panel available to ensure that Beach Wardens can be on duty when required for busy days

When we have looked at both these options we will present our findings to the members.

 

46.  DRIVER LICENSING FOR RETURNING EMIGRANTS:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council requests the Government to stop the practice of discrimination of returning IRISH emigrants drivers from America.

Citizens of Australia Germany New Zealand Ontario South Korea and many more Countries can drive in Ireland with their own License and then swap for our Irish Licence.”

 

47.  PROPOSED PIER AND PONTOON PROJECT IN ROSSES POINT:

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

AND AGREED

“That a progress report be provided in regard to the proposed Pier and Pontoon project in Rosses Point outlining when construction work is to commence on the project and  when it is expected that the works will be completed.”

The Meeting was advised by Mr. Kilfeather that Sligo County Council were offered an allocation of €111,750 for this project in April 2017 under the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme 2017 (Marine Leisure & Marine Tourism).

The approved Project consists of the provision of a Pontoon and Access ramp at Rosses Point which will provide much needed safe access to and from vessels. The current estimated cost of the project is €149,000 which taking account of the funding approved will require matched funding from Sligo County Council of approximately €37,000.

A Contractor was appointed for the Scheme in September. This is a complex Project requiring two further Sub-Contractors to deliver particular elements of the Scheme.

Subject to weather and tidal conditions we anticipate some of the advance works on site to commence this week. The fabrication of Units as part of the Scheme is ongoing and these are currently anticipated for delivery and installation at end October which will be followed in November by the final element which is the installation of the aluminium bridge.

Councillor Bree thanked Mr. Kilfeather for the positive report in reply to his motion.

 

48.  DEVELOPMENT OF WALKING ROUTE ON CARNS/CAIRNS HILL:

Proposed by Councillor Bree
Seconded by Councillor Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with an update on the proposal to develop a walking route to the cairn located on Carns Hill/Cairns Hill.”

Ms. D. Clarke reported to the Meeting as follows:

There are two cairns located at Cairns Hill. One is well established cairn situated on Cairns Hill and is located on Coillte property but with the Cairn itself being the responsibility of the O.P.W. This Cairn is publicly accessible via two public routes; i) Cleveragh Regional Park, crossing the Holy Well Rd. onto Coillte lands, with additional improvements to current gradients being sought to support access. ii) the Fox’s Den route.

The second cairn is at Carns/Cairns Hill and is on private lands, access to which would have to be secured from 3 (or 4) landowners.

Following a previous notice of motion agreed at Sligo Municipal District Meeting in September 2015 an investigation into the possibility of achieving access to this Cairn located on private lands known as  at Carns/Cairns Hill was carried out by Mr. Michael Carty from our offices. At this stage the Council was unable to secure agreement from all of the landowners involved to gain access onto their lands for a recreational walking route linking the Green Road to the cairn located on Carns, Cairns Hill.

The situation can be kept under review but until such time as there is agreed access secured from all landowners involved there is no point in pursuing the development of a walking route at thislocation.

In noting the contents of the report, Councillor Bree agreed that it would be important to have the support and co-operation of all the landowners. 

 

50.  FUNDING FOR HAZARDOUS WASTE SCHEME FOR SLIGO TOWN:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County to write to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Denis Naughten to make funds available for a hazardous waste scheme in Sligo town.”

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that for a number of years Sligo County Council has been working with Greenstar and the EPA to ensure the delivery of a Hazardous Waste facility in Sligo Town. Planning Permission was granted on the 16th Sept 2017 to Starrus Eco Holding Ltd (Greenstar) to include the acceptance of Household Hazardous waste at their Civic Amenity site in Deepwater Quay, Finisklin. It is hoped that this service will be available in the coming months - Sligo County Council will continue to work with Greenstar in the rollout of this service while also providing a Household Hazardous Waste service at the Civic Amenity facility in Tubbercurry.

 

51.  CONTINUATION OF KEASH HILL WALK:

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

AND AGREED

“Following on from my motion of December 2016 calling on Sligo Co. Council to apply for funding to continue the Keash Hill Walk. What progress has been made on this matter?”

Ms. Clarke reported that funding for the development of the Keash Hill walk has been secured through Sligo’s Rural Recreation Officer (R.R.O. Ms. Deirdre Kennedy). Deirdre has secured the current permissive access arrangements with community and landowner support. In advance of any construction works being undertaken, Environmental and Archaeological assessments have to be carried out on the proposed trail extension at Keash due to the significant heritage value of the area and work is ongoing in this regard, including route selection.

Following successful conclusion of subsequent design stage the engagement of local community supports to ensure its ongoing viability at delivery stage will be key to ensuring the ongoing viability of the proposed new trail.

 

52.  SIGNAGE STRATEGY FOR PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council initiate a comprehensive signage strategy for our parks & recreational facilities throughout the County”.

The Meeting was advised by Ms. Clarke that the WAW as an example of comprehensive signage is adequately signed and provides visitors and local community users with directional signage to these county recreational amenities situated along Sligo’s shoreline.

A broad range of additional recreational facilities are also highlighted from the existing road network.  These include the many recreation walking trails ranging from Ben Bulben Forest Trails, Carrowmore Passage Tombs to Caves of Keash. This dedicated signage was achieved with funding support from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport Regional Signage Programme.

In addition, informational map board signage exists at the way marked off road recreational walking trails throughout the county.

There are no resources available, at present, and no budget identified to initiate a comprehensive signage strategy for our parks & recreational infrastructure throughout the county. Recreational infrastructure is approached on a case by case basis, subject to funding.

Many of these recreational assets are also available for review online at www.sligowalks.ie with maps, directions, routes etc. readily available. The recent launch of SligoWalks.ie allied to the promotional video and individual illustrated maps highlights the popularity of this free resource. 

Sligo County Council will continue to implement various signage initiatives at recreational amenities, subject to funding.

Councillor MacManus outlined various facilities within Sligo area where signage was required to identify them to members of the public, e.g. O’Boyle Park, The Fairgreen, Mitchell Curley Park and Cleveragh Park.

Ms. Clarke, in reply, said that the development of a strategy would have a cost.  Councillor MacManus said that the works he was referring to would only cost a small sum of money.  In some cases there were six figure sums spent on developing the facilities and requested that, in future, a sum be included in the budget for signage.  In the short term, there was a request to have some basic finger posts/signs erected.

Councillor Baker added that in most communities in the county, they had to raise funding for their own signage.

 

53.  OPENING HOURS FOR FÁILTE IRELAND’S SLIGO OFFICE DURING PEAK TOURISM SEASON:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council asks Fáilte Ireland to consider opening the main tourism office in Sligo on a Sunday during the peak tourism season”.

 

54.  COSTS INCURRED CLEARING ILLEGAL DUMPING AND FLY TIPPING FROM 2015-2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive to provide a report on the costs of cleansing of illegal dumping and fly tipping for the years 2015, 2016 and 2017 to date, the report to also include the Council’s proposed strategy to deal with this issue in future.”

A detailed report, prepared by Mr. Kilfeather in response to the motion, was circulated to the Member. 

Further to the points raised about the necessity for clean up operations at Tullycusheen and Clooncoose bogs, Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that 20 tonnes of waste had been taken out of Tullycusheen bog.  Within 48 hours there was fresh dumping at the same site. 

 

55.  PLANS FOR “RURAL LINK” SERVICE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Minister for Transport what plans are in place for Rural Link?”

Councillor Baker outlined the background to his submission of the motion and was advised by Ms. Clarke that she had been in contact with the offices of the Rural Transport Co-ordinator in Carrick-on-Shannon.  The Director of Services indicated that she was awaiting an up-date from that office and would follow up on same.

 

56.  REGULATION OF ROAD WORKS ON LOCAL ROADS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“To ask the Department of Transport is there anything being done to address the Regulations for Health and Safety surrounding road works on local roads?”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that legislation relating to Health and Safety at road works applies to all road types regardless of category. Obviously the requirements relating to local roads are less than national roads.

Any Health and Safety at Work measures that are implemented on the road network in County Sligo are done so as to comply with the relevant legislation and guidance documents.

We have a duty to protect our workforce and the road users and there will be no deviation from our prescribed safe systems of work.

For information purposes new legislation and guidance documents are planned to be issued by the Dept of Transport in Oct./Nov. 2017.

Sligo County Council will take any changes required into account to comply with the new requirements.

 

57.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to James Coleman of Bunninadden, Ballymote on the death of his father, Jimmy.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bridie O’Hara of Tullinaglug, Tourlestrane on the death of her mother, Annie.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended toMadeline Walsh and family of Carrentemple, Gurteen on the death of her husband, Martin”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ann Gorman and family of Ballina Road, Tubbercurry on the death of her father, Jimmy Coleman.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended toMary Healy and family of Strandhill Road, Sligo on the death of her husband, Donal”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the family of the late Noreen Cawley of Rathedmond, Sligo”

 

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

 

58.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Geevagh Ladies Senior G.A.A. Team on winning the Senior County Final”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Catalan people on their vote for independence”.

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to all those who had participated and those successful in the Tidy Towns 2017 Competition”.

 

59.  CONFERENCES AND TRAINING

The Members agreed to note the list of Training/Conferences as circulated.

 

60.  PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES AND TRAINING:

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

 

61.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the correspondence circulated with the agenda.

 

62.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

  1. The Cathaoirleach asked that the Members of the Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District, at their upcoming Meeting, would discuss the suggestion of starting Council Meetings at 10.00 a.m.  Members agreed to do so.
  2. Councillor Healy raised the ongoing issue of road R290 (Ballygawley to Ballintogher).  The Director of Services said, subject to resources and staff availability, he would endeavour to have the requested response for the November Meeting.

 

63.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

 No other matter was raised under this heading.

  

END OF MEETING:

The meeting concluded at 5.10 p.m.

 

 


Meeting Date 02/10/2017