Minutes 2017
Minutes of November Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 6th November, 2017 At 11.00 a.m. 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 Maguire,
- Councillor MacManus,
- 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. Bartley Gavin, Acting Director of Services
- Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
- Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
- Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
- Ms. Karen Gallagher, I.S. Technical Support 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 Michael Clarke.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 31ST JULY, 2017:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 31st July, 2017”.
2. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 2ND OCTOBER, 2017:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 2nd October, 2017”.
3. TAKING IN CHARGE OF DEVELOPMENTS – “SPRINGVALE” AND “SPRINGVALE HEIGHTS”,
TUBBERCURRY:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge of developments known as “Springvale” and “Springvale Heights”, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the development”.
4. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 65 SEAVIEW PARK, CLIFFONEY TO DARERCA FLYNN:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant to Section 183 of Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 65 Seaview Park, Cliffoney to Darerca Flynn”.
5. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 77 RATHBRAUGHAN PARK, SLIGO TO ALEXANDER ELLIOTT:
Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant to Section 183 of Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 77 Rathbraughan Park, Sligo to Alexander Elliott”.
6. SECTION 183 – PROPOSED LEASE OF DOORLY PARK LODGE, CLEVERAGH, SLIGO TO SLIGO TOURIST DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant to Section 183 of Local Government Act 2001, the proposed lease of property at Doorly Park, (Doorly Park Lodge) Cleveragh, Sligo, to the Sligo Tourist Development Association, Aras Reddan, Temple Street, Sligo”.
7. PRESENTATIONS BY MS. HELEN ROCHFORD-BRENNAN, CHAIR OF DEMENTIA EUROPE
AND MS. CARMEL GEOGHEGAN – “SUPPORTING DEMENTIA INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES”
The Cathaoirleach welcomed Ms. Rochford-Brennan and Ms. Geoghegan to the Chamber. Ms. Rochford-Brennan gave a detailed and informative presentation relating to Dementia in Ireland. Documentation outlining relevant statistics was also circulated to the Members. Among the matters highlighted by Ms. Rochford-Brennan were those of her own diagnosis with Dementia before she was 65, and she presented an overview of the services and supports available at local National and European level.
Ms. Rochford-Brennan travels throughout Europe to continue to advocate and influence change for people with Dementia in her roles as Chairperson of the European Working Group and Board member of Alzheimer Europe.
Ms. Geoghegan’s presentation was entitled “Supporting Dementia Inclusive Communities” and outlined the main domains for creating dementia inclusive communities – social networks, local facilities, support services, physical environment and local groups.
Members thanked Ms. Rochford-Brennan and Ms Geoghegan for their presentations and also for the work they continue to carry out in the community.
The Mayor of Sligo Municipal District, Councillor Hubert Keaney, advised the Meeting that he would be hosting a Coffee Morning Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Sligo Day Care Centre in the Mayor’s Parlour in City Hall on Friday, 10th November.
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, T.D. seeking extra funding for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland in future health budgets, and that this proposal be circulated to all Local Authorities in Ireland”.
8. NATIONAL PLANNING FRAMEWORK – DRAFT SUBMISSION:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That the submission on the National Planning Framework be adopted and that a Meeting of Representatives of Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal County Councils and the Oireachtas Members from the three counties be convened for the purpose of developing a strategy to ensure that Government favourably considers the submissions from the three counties”.
9. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2017:
Councillor Bree indicated that he wished to raise matters arising from the September Report referred to Housing information included in the report relating to the housing development at Knappagh Road and Carrowbunnaun, Strandhill and Mr. Gavin updated the Meeting on the current situation with the developments.
Councillor MacManus requested a report on the Pilot scheme in Cranmore.
In reply to queries raised by Councillor Bree, the Chief Executive confirmed that the approval process was long and cumbersome. Timescales and projections for projects can vary and interaction with the Department can delay the process. An internal meeting is being organised to review all Capital Schemes following which a full report would be brought back to the Members. There may still be future delays, depending on the approval process.
In response to a query regarding the rescheduling of the Cranmore Steering Group Meeting, the Members were advised that the Chief Executive was called to a meeting in Dublin at short notice.
In relation to the “Housing crisis”, Councillor Queenan referred to the lack of progress on building of houses, despite the availability of funding. In reply, the Chief Executive confirmed that the process can be protracted and difficult. The Cathaoirleach added that this is a national crisis, with up to 3,000 children now being housed in hotel rooms each night.
10. ROADS WINTER SERVICE PLAN 2017/2018:
Members noted the report submitted to them by Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services. This report included arrangements to deal with routes with priority given to National Primary and Regional routes, Hospitals, etc.
Councillor Casserly thanked the Corporate and IT staff for their recent social media work on Storms Ophelia and Brian. The information they had provided have been a very valuable resource to the emergency services.
Councillors also complimented the road crews and asked that they would try and maintain drains to allow surface water to be removed from the roads. Councillor O’Grady also noted the excellent service provided by E.S.B. staff during the recent storms would also be acknowledged.
The Chief Executive thanked the Members for their comments. The National level communication contributed to people taking additional care. The manner in which staff had organised communications at local level in conjunction with Area Engineers and base was acknowledged by the Chief Executive.
In reply to a query from Councillor Healy as to the availability of manpower to address difficulties on roads after an event, the Chief Executive advised the Meeting that in relation to his staff, they must be offered a safe place of work. After the event, if staff is required, resources and staff will be deployed as had occurred following the storms in December 2015-January 2016.
11. CORRESPONDENCE TO “GREENSTAR” RE. ADMINISTRATION CHARGES:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Can Sligo Co. Co. 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.”
Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that correspondence had issued to Greenstar and a response is awaited.
12. PROPOSED CHANGES TO WASTE PERMITS:
At the request of Councillor C. MacManus, the following motion was deferred to the Agenda of the December Ordinary Meeting:
“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.”
13. 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.”
A detailed report was circulated to the Members and the contents outlined to the meeting by Mr. Kilfeather. Following a discussion it was then agreed that an amended motion would be put before the Members.
Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“For Sligo County Council to consider providing a Community Hedge Cutting Grant of a set amount 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.
That the Council make contact with other authorities to see how similar schemes are being run and seek advice from relevant government departments about funding, and that an awareness campaign be undertaken to remind landowners of their responsibility to maintain their hedges”.
The Chief Executive sought clarification that the understanding of the resolution was to “consider providing” a Community Hedge Cutting Grant would be consistent with the report from the Director of Services. Also, that the outcome of the review of the operation of the Pilot Scheme in Leitrim (due to finish in February 2018) would be taken into account when considering the suitability of such a scheme in Sligo for September 2018.
This was agreed by the Members.
14. PRIORITISATION FOR LOCAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES:
The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Clarke, was deferred to the Agenda of the December Ordinary Meeting:
“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 Homes in to farms.”
15. YEATS EXHIBITION:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“I call on Sligo County Council to ensure the re-location to Sligo of the permanent Yeats exhibition currently located in the main hall of the National Library Kildare St Dublin.”
Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services, reported that her offices had contacted the Education and Outreach Department at the National Library in relation to the collection. It had been confirmed that the exhibition will be continuing for the foreseeable future at the National Library as part of their redevelopment programme. There are no plans for the exhibition, due to its scale and space requirement, to travel outside of the National Library at present.
16. ASSESSMENT OF MATURE TREES AND SHRUBS ON COUNCIL PROPERTIES:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus
“That Sligo County Council ensures that an assessment of mature trees and shrubs that are growing on Council owned property is carried out by qualified staff before any removal or pruning takes place.”
Mr. B. Gavin reported that Sligo County Council will continue to endeavour to maintain and protect all mature trees and shrubs on its properties throughout the County. Only in situations of impending risk to Health and Safety or obstruction to the public do the Council in some situations need to prune, cut back or remove trees and shrubs as necessary. In all cases the Council will endeavour to carry out the appropriate assessments prior to any action being taken.
17. AUDIT OF PUBLIC PARKING METERS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor
AND AGREED
“That an audit be carried out on all public parking meters in Sligo town and repairs and upgrades made wherever necessary.”
The Head of Finance advised Members of the current situation regarding the stock of “Pay and Display” parking machines in Sligo which were approximately ten years old.
It was noted that a proposal is being considered as part of Budget 2018, revision of bye-laws 2018 and the full public procurement in 2018.
18. FUNDING FOR UPGRADING OF N16 (SLIGO-ENNISKILLEN) NATIONAL PRIMARY ROUTE:
Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council seeks confirmation from both Minister for Transport Shane Ross and Transport Infrastructure Ireland that future funding for the needed upgrading of the N16 Sligo-Enniskillen National Primary Route will not be impacted by the recent Brexit Referendum decision.”
Following a discussion on this motion, the Chief Executive noted that it referred to the Members’ concern that there would not be any loss of momentum on upgrading of this route due to Brexit.
Councillor MacManus confirmed that this was the intention in presenting the motion and that Sligo County Council needs to ensure it is kept on the agenda.
19. REPORT ON HOUSING GRANTS FOR THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED:
The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Clarke, was deferred to the Agenda of the December Ordinary Meeting:
“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on Housing Grants for the elderly and the disabled.”
21. FUNDING FOR WESTERN DISTRIBUTOR ROAD:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council calls for an explanation from the Minister for Transport Shane Ross why funding for the Western Distributor Road was not provided for in Budget 2018".
Members discussed the importance of this road for the county and how vital it would be for development in the area. The very valuable input from the I.D.A. was highlighted, including their advancing of €3 million towards its development.
In reply to a further query from Councillor MacSharry regarding a commitment on funding, Mr. Kilfeather advised the meeting that allocations are announced in January each year and Councils are not notified of the decision in advance.
22. PROVISION OF NEW GARDA STATION FOR SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Justice and any other relevant Minister to provide members with an urgent update on the provision of a new Garda Station for Sligo".
Members agreed with the urgent necessity for the new Garda Station in Sligo. Further discussions also highlighted the necessity for a new Garda Station premises in Tubbercurry as the Station in place is not fit for purpose.
ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:
The Meeting adjourned at 1.10 p.m. and resumed at 2.10 p.m.
20. LEGISLATION RE. RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT OF EMERGENCY WORKERS:
Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That this Council and its members support the draft legislation which is being prepared at the moment and will be presented soon to make it a criminal offence to recklessly endanger the lives of emergency workers.”
Councillor Henry outlined the background to his submission of this motion. In particular, incidents that had occurred during the recent Storms Ophelia and Brian were discussed.
Members were in agreement with the introduction of this legislation and some relayed details of relevant incidents from their own experience.
23. REQUEST FOR REVIEW OF THRESHOLDS FOR HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS (H.A.P.):
Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
“That Sligo County Council calls on the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government to immediately review the existing thresholds for Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) and to install a mechanism that reflects the realities of the market in the private rental sector.”
24. FUNDING FOR ‘LEADER’ PROGRAMME:
Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
“Recognising the important role that LEADER funding has on communities in counties like Sligo, that Sligo County Council calls on the Government to reverse the decrease in LEADER funding from €40M per annum to €30M as recently announced in Budget 2018.
Further, to ask the executive do they envisage this funding decrease impacting on community-led projects here in County Sligo overseen by the LCDC/LAG.”
A detailed report was furnished to the Members by Ms. McConnell and Director of Services, Ms. Clarke. In particular, Ms. Clarke advised the meeting that the E.U. Programme had been reduced on this occasion; it was not a decision of the Irish Government.
In response to Ms. McConnell’s report, Councillor MacManus expressed his satisfaction that the Sligo projects would not be impacted by the cut in the 2017 budget. Further queries raised by Members were clarified by Ms. Clarke and Ms. McConnell. Members outlined the benefits this Programme has been to the country as a whole and thanked both former Councillor Sean MacManus and current Chair of the L.C.D.C., Councillor Sinéad Maguire, for their work in this area.
25. UPGRADING OF ALLEYWAY AT TREACY AVENUE:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council seek funding for the upgrading of the alleyway at Treacy Avenue”.
26. REPORT ON PROGRESS OF THE “LEADER” PROGRAMME:
The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Clarke, was deferred to the Agenda of the December Ordinary Meeting:
“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on the progress of the Leader Programme.”
27. PILOT BIKE SHARE SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That the Council confirms its support for the pilot Bike Share Scheme as proposed by the Eco Travel company.”
The Director of Services reported to the Meeting as follows:
“A meeting between representatives of the ECO Travel Company and Sligo County Council’s Roads Section has been organised for later this week to discuss this proposal. The Council has also become aware of other Companies that may have an interest in piloting such a Scheme in Sligo and any such confirmed interest will also have to be facilitated by way of discussion before any recommendation or decisions can be made.
The use of technology appears to be central to such Schemes and the Schemes appear to utilise existing public and private bike stands, thus allowing for a fast roll out without requiring any civil works or additional costs making the systems easy to use, cheap to operate encouraging members of the public and tourists alike to use a bike for the shorter journeys across Sligo. We understand that Sligo IT have confirmed that they are willing to host such a Scheme if approval is secured from Sligo County Council.”
The Director of Services advised the Meeting that one other company may be interested in this Scheme. That company will also have to be facilitated before any decision is made.
Councillor Bree welcomed the response from the Director of Services and urged that a decision be made at an early date.
28. LOUGH TALT WATER SUPPLY:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy
AND AGREED
“Due to the ongoing concerns regarding the Lough Talt Water Supply and the fact it could be 7-10 years before a new treatment plant is put in place I am calling on Irish Water for a update on what interim measures are proposed and the timescale for their implementation”.
The Director of Services advised the Members that, on receipt of the notice of motion, the enquiry had been referred to Irish Water. To date, an acknowledgement had been received but no further reply.
Following a discussion on the urgent necessity for these works to be carried out, Councillor Gormley thanked Mr. Kilfeather for his report and asked that a further reminder would be sent to Irish Water.
29. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON R294 (BOYLE TO BALLINA ROAD AT MULLINABREENA SOUTH):
Items 29, 43 and 45 on the Agenda related to Road R294. The Cathaoirleach indicated that he would deal with the three motions at this stage of the Meeting.
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“I call on Sligo County Council to install a traffic speed and volume counter the R294 Boyle to Ballina road at Mullinabreena south in light of numerous accidents on this stretch of road and the concerns for safety from local residents living in this area.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported to the Meeting that the Road Design Section of Sligo County Council will investigate the issues at this location including speed. This section has been highlighted as in need of improvement for many years but the only source of funding for such projects is the non national safety improvement scheme which caters for low cost solutions. If a solution can be found under this heading then an application will be made for the 2019 programme.
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To ask the Director of Services to indicate has the Council made a application for funding to upgrade sections of the R294”.
The Director of Services advised the Members that over the years, a number of applications for low cost accident schemes have been made on the R294 including, Quarryfield, Gurteen Village, Cloonloo, Route treatment and Powellsborough. These have been in the order of €20,000 each. Since the suspension of the Specific Improvement Grant a number of years ago, there is no other funding stream for substantial improvements of the nature that is required on the R294 at a number of locations.
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“To ask the Council to resurface the Ballymote Road R294 Tubbercurry from the Tubbercurry Golf Club out to Oghambaun, in the interest of road safety, as this section of the very busy R294 is in very poor condition and uneven for motorists”.
"There are no funds available to carry out this work in 2017 but this section of road will be considered for funding under the 2018 Restoration Improvement Grant Programme", the Director of Services advised the Meeting.
Mr. Kilfeather undertook to make contact with Roscommon and Mayo County Councils with a view to meeting and submitting a joint funding application. He advised members that part of the difficulty in this area was the suspension of the Specific Improvement Grant.
30. PROPOSAL FOR A “NO PLASTIC PLEASE CAMPAIGN”:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council will run a 'No Plastic Please campaign' in furtherance of our commitment towards a more environmentally friendly county.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported to the Meeting that there are likely to be a number of national campaigns that relate to this issue, including one on single use coffee cups as well as the issue of micro plastics (currently before the Dáil), however this particular issue is not one of the priority areas assigned by the Regional Environmental Awareness Office at this time. We will convey this to the Regional Office and endeavour to highlight the problems associated with excessive packaging and plastic waste in general.
We will work with the permitted Waste Collectors operating in Sligo, to improve awareness of how to recycle and segregate household waste more efficiently.
Councillor Maguire indicated that, rather than referring matters to the Regional Environmental Awareness Office, she would be willing to work with the recently appointed Environmental Awareness Officer in Sligo and felt it would be worthwhile to include an allocation in the Budget.
31. PUBLIC LIGHTING IN COLLOONEY, BALLINTOGHER AND BALLISODARE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to address the concerns regarding the quality of public lighting in areas in Collooney Ballintogher and Ballisodare and make funding available to address the concerns of residents in these areas.”
The Director of Services informed the meeting Sligo County Council can commission an assessment of lighting levels at identified locations in the above villages. However, it should be noted that there is very limited funding available for upgrades to public lighting,
32. FLOODING ON R290 AT CROSSBOY AND KILLERY ROAD, BALLINTOGHER:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to carry out the necessary work to address the flooding that has occurred on the R290 at Crossboy and on the Killery road in Balintogher as there is a threat to homes in the area and also make the necessary funding available.”
The Director of Services advised the Meeting that Roads personnel will seek to undertake an assessment of existing drainage infrastructure in the area in order to determine condition of same. It is considered that a CCTV survey may be required in order to confirm the integrity of a road culvert at the junction of the R287/R290. Roads personnel have identified a solution to the surface water issue on the R290 at Crossboy.
Any necessary works can be considered as part of future Roadworks Programmes.
33. LICENSING OF COMPETITION IN THE BANKING SECTOR:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“Considering that the average standard variable mortgage rate in Europe is 1.83% while the average standard variable mortgage rate in Ireland is 3.5% can Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Finance to find out why there is a delay in licensing competition in the banking sector.”
34. SURVEY OF DANGEROUS TREES:
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry
AND AGREED
“Following on from the recent storms I am calling on Sligo County Council to carry out a survey of dangerous trees along roads have owners notified to have them cut down in the interest of health and safety”.
At the outset, Councillor Gormley reiterated the Members’ gratitude to the Council’s outdoor staff for the work they had carried out during the recent Storms Ophelia and Brian. In supporting Councillor Gormley, Councillor Henry stated that the three tragic deaths during Storm Ophelia had involved incidents with fallen trees.
The Director of Services advised the Meeting that the 1993 Roads Act obliges landowners and occupiers of land to take all reasonable care to ensure that the trees, hedges and other vegetation growing on their land are not or could not become a danger to people using or working on the public road. It is the responsibility of the landowners/occupiers to ensure that there are no trees along the roadside that could be a danger to the public. It is the landowners responsibility also to survey their trees and engage qualified people if necessary to check if the trees pose a danger to the public. If the trees are a danger they should be cut down by the landowner.
This survey would be a costly exercise for Sligo County Council particularly as Sligo County Council is not responsible for maintaining the trees. It should be noted that there are approximately 2,800 km of Public Roads in County Sligo. It would not be practical in any event to carry out such a survey on an such an extensive road network.
35. SAFETY MEASURES ON N17 AT BALLINACARROW:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley
AND AGREED
“I call on Sligo County Council to seek an update from T.I.I. on safety measures that are needed on the N17 at Ballinacarrow Village. I have met with concerned locals including parents with small children and elderly people who encounter the speeding problem on a daily basis at this location.
There is a safety concern that traffic approaching the village from both directions of Sligo and Tubbercurry seems to be oblivious to the traffic lights outside the playground,national school,creche and community centre. The majority of the new houses in Ballinacarrow including two new estates are on the opposite side of the road to these community facilities and residents are having to cross this very busy national primary route daily.
A petition has been submitted and recently a roads engineer from Sligo County Council visited this location and met with me and local parents and listened to their concerns. The engineer outlined some possible measures could be put in place with the approval of the T.I.I. {Transport Infrastructure Ireland}. I now call urgently on the T.I.I. to provide funding for this hazardous location as soon as possible before there is a fatality.”
36. IRISH SOCIETY FOR COLITIS AND CROHN’S DISEASE – MEETING WITH MINISTER FOR HEALTH:
The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Clarke, was deferred to the Agenda of the December Ordinary Meeting:
“Sligo County Council calls on Health Minister Simon Harris to say when does he intend on meeting with the Irish Society for Colitis and Crohn's disease after postponing a meeting 7 times.”
37. REPAIRS TO ROADS AT FR. O’FLANAGAN TERRACE/
FORTHILL:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council set aside a provision to repair the roads on Forthill after work is finished on Fr. O'Flanagan Terrace.”
The Meeting was advised by Mr. Kilfeather, D.O.S. that the contract for the re-development of social housing at Fr. O’Flanagan Terrace includes a provision for full width resurfacing of the section of Holborn Hill fronting the development site.
38. WORKS TO KNOXVILLE MANOR ESTATE, BELLAGHY, CHARLESTOWN:
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“I will ask what works need to be completed prior to taking in charge by Sligo County Council of Knoxville Manor Estate, Bellaghy, Charlestown, Co. Sligo”.
Councillor Lundy asked that, when the taking in charge process would commenced for this Estate, the alleyway would also be included.
Members were advised that Sligo County Council had taken the public lights in charge in January 2017. There are no known outstanding works required in the estate however we are awaiting a report from Irish Water outlining if they have any requirements prior to the estate being taken in charge.
Councillor Lundy welcomed the report and asked that Irish Water would be contacted again to ascertain what they required.
39. PROVISION OF “CHANGING PLACES” FACILITY IN SLIGO TOWN:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council seek funding from relevant Department to install a ‘Changing Places’ facility in Sligo town as current standard disabled toilets do not meet the needs of all people with disabilities. This would ensure that those with specific needs are not excluded from participating in social, cultural and economic activities.”
Mr. Kilfeather advised the Members that the “Changing Places Ireland” campaign was introduced by Inclusion Ireland (NGO – Voluntary Agency supported by HSE) in 2014. The campaign aims to introduce fully accessible toilets to public places such as theatres, shopping centres, libraries, swimming pools, sporting venues etc. Changing Places facilities differ from mainstream accessible toilets in that they include both a hoist and a height-adjustable changing bench.
To date Changing Places facilities have been installed at a number of visitor locations and attractions nationwide including:
- Trinity College Dublin;
- Áras an Uachtaráin, Phoenix Park (installed by OPW);
- The Lime Tree Theatre in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick; and
- Terminal 1 at Dublin Airport.
Changing Places project appraisals are currently being progressed by IKEA in Ballymun, the OPW in respect to Visitor Centres such as Dublin Castle and Glendalough and by the promoters of the Square Shopping Centre in Tallaght. It is believed that Mayo County Council is undertaking a project appraisal regarding the provision
of such a facility at the Westport Sports Complex.
Sligo County Council will liaise with Inclusion Ireland, the HSE and other relevant stakeholders with a view to carrying out a project appraisal/feasibility around the provision of a Changing Places facility in the North West.
40. COHESION POLICY AND STRUCTURAL FUNDING
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council supports cohesion policy post 2020 and that structural funds post 2020 should be aligned with priorities identified in the National Planning Framework and that both would be managed regionally.”
41. FIRE DAMAGE TO COUNCIL HOUSING PROPERTY:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask the Chief Executive if it has been drawn to his attention that in July a vacant Council house (details supplied) was seriously damaged as a result of fire; and if it has been drawn to his attention that property in the adjacent house was smoke damaged as a result of the fire in the Council property; and if it has been drawn to this attention that when inquiries were made about compensation for the damaged material, the Housing Office stated that having checked with the Council’s assessor the Council had no responsibility in the matter; and if it has been drawn to his attention that the Council records subsequently showed that there was no correspondence between the Council and the Council’s insurance assessor regarding this issue; and to ask the Chief Executive if he will make a statement on the matter.”
Mr. B. Gavin DOS outlined the sequence of events arising from the fire in the vacant house on 13th June 2017, and the engagement between the occupier of the adjoining house and the Council’s insurers. An initial inspection will be followed up and a claim will be lodged with our insurers.
In further discussion, the Chief Executive stated that where those issues are brought to the attention either through notices of motion or through individual contact with the offices concerned, they would be dealt with appropriately. If the Council gets things wrong or needs to apologise for its actions, it would do so.
42. REQUEST FOR REPORT ON COMPENSATION CLAIMS PAID BY SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AND ITS INSURERS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That a report be provided giving details of all the compensation claims paid by Sligo County Council, or its insurers, since January 2016, the report to include the reason for each claim, the location it related to and the size of the claim awarded; the report to also include a breakdown of legal costs resulting from the claims.”
Mr. Gavin advised the Meeting that the Council’s Insurers had been contacted to obtain the relevant details. The report, once compiled, would be brought back to the Members. The Council Executive may be somewhat restricted under Data Protection legislation in information that could be provided.
In further discussions, it was confirmed that the report would be an item on the December Agenda. The Chief Executive noted that there would be constraints on the information contained in the report. It was a wide ranging request for information which could include Road Traffic Accidents, Public and Employer’s liability claims, Fire Services, etc. There may also be some cases of Road Traffic Accidents where compensation may have been agreed “out of Court”. There may, therefore, be some difficulty in disclosing some of the details.
Members noted the comments of Mr. Gavin and the Chief Executive.
44. PROPOSALS TO ADDRESS EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE:
Following a brief discussion on this motion, Councillor Maguire requested that the item be deferred to the December Agenda:
“Given the recent findings of climate change being the ultimate cause of flooding experienced in Carraroe, Ballyfree and Ransboro in December 2015 and the recent extraordinary storms experienced throughout the country.
Given that the pattern of rainfall occurrence and increase in intensity of individual events are predicted to occur in the north west as a result of climate change at greater frequency than before.
This council will write to ministers for the environment, transport and agriculture seeking that they take all available measures to reduce carbon emissions, adopt renewable energy sources and encourage carbon neutral practices where possible.
This would ensure Ireland no longer needs to look for derogations from our EU responsibilities and will avoid potential punitive fines in future.”
46. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Joe Murphy of Carrowkeel, Ballisodare on the death of his mother in law, Mary Devaney.
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Faul of Humbert Street, Tubbercurry on the death of her husband, Paddy.
Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Phil Flannery and family of Sligo Road, Tubbercurry on the death of her husband, Oliver.
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Susan Cox and Glen Scanlon of Treacy Avenue, Sligo on the death of their mother, Rosaleen.
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Donal Bourke of Kintogher, Sligo on the death of his wife, Pauline.
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Jeanne Dolan of Far Finisklin, Sligo on the death of her daughter, Róisín.
The Chief Executive, on his own behalf and on behalf of the Staff, wished to be associated with these expressions of sympathy.
47. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ms. Sorcha Crowley, Reporter with the “Sligo Champion” on being named “Regional Journalist of the Year” at the 2017 News Brands Ireland Journalism Awards”.
Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Tourlestrane Senior G.A.A. Team on winning the Senior County G.A.A. Championship for the second year in a row”.
Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ballymote G.A.A. Club on winning the Sligo Junior Championship and qualification for the Connacht Junior Final”.
48. CONFERENCES:
Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To note and approve the Conferences and Training list previously circulated.”
49. 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.
50. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED:
Councillor Gormley referred to correspondence item e) Letter dated 29th September, 2017 from Minister Shane Ross re. funding for local (Class 3) Roads and said she was disappointed with the response. Councillor Taylor and Councillor Baker supported Councillor Gormley in her comments and agreed that there are several roads in their areas in very poor condition
Members then noted the remaining correspondence which had been received since the October 2017 Meeting.
MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
A) CAR PARKING AT THE “LITTLE COTTAGE CAFE”, ROSSES POINT
a) Councillor Bree referred to Item 23 of the Minutes of the October Ordinary Meeting. This item referred to the provision of car parking spaces at the “Little Cottage Cafe” in Rosses Point. Clarification was sought regarding the contribution received as the sum payable as a condition of the planning permission granted.
Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that he would revert to the Members with a report when he had an opportunity to further examine the matters raised.
B) THE BUILDING BLOCK
b) Councillor Bree referred to Item 3 of the October Minutes relating to the “Building Block” (formerly Waterfront House), Bridge Street, Sligo. The Chief Executive confirmed that, as referred to at the Council’s Corporate Policy Group Meeting in previous days, the proposal was not now proceeding.
52. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
No matter was raised under this heading.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 4.10 p.m.
Meeting Date 06/11/2017