Minutes 2018

Minutes of January Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 15th January, 2018 at 11.00 a.m. in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


 

COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Gormley,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor Henry,
  • Councillor Keaney,
  • Councillor Kilgannon,
  • Councillor MacManus,
  • Councillor MacSharry,
  • Councillor Maguire,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor Queenan,
  • 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. John Reilly, Head of Enterprise
  • Mr. John Moran, A/Director of Services
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Karen Gallagher, I.S. Technical Support Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor S. Kilgannon, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor M. Casserly, Councillor J. Lundy, Councillor G. O’Boyle and Councillor R. O’Grady.

 

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS – ADJOURNMENT AS A MARK OF RESPECT TO THE LATE MARY ELLEN LUNDY:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed those present and wished them a Happy New Year.

The Cathaoirleach proposed, with the unanimous agreement of the Members, that the meeting would be adjourned for a short period as a mark of respect to the late Mary Ellen Lundy, mother of Councillor Jerry Lundy.

 

1.  MINUTES OF LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee Meetings held on

  1. 22nd February, 2017,
  2. 17th May, 2017 and
  3. 13th September, 2017”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of the following Meetings of the Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District:

  1. Minutes of meeting held on 17th July, 2017 
  2. Minutes of meeting held on 31st July, 2017
  3. Minutes of meeting held on 13th November 2017 to consider Draft Budgetary Plan and
  4. Minutes of meeting held on 13th November 2017”.

 

3.  MINUTES OF SLIGO MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 18TH SEPTEMBER, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of the Sligo Municipal District meeting held on 18th September 2017”.

 

4.  MINUTES OF S.P.C. 3 MEETING HELD ON 19TH SEPTEMBER, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of S.P.C. 3 Meeting held on 19th September 2017”.

 

5.  MINUTES OF BUDGET MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 27TH NOVEMBER, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Budget Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 27th November, 2017”.

 

6.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 4TH DECEMBER, 2017:

In relation to the item

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

It was proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

‘That the draft minutes of the meeting held on 4th December, 2017 (Item 37) be amended to read as follows’:

 

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

To ask the Chief Executive to provide a report (a) indicating the time, date and venue of each meeting in 2015, 2016 and 2017 where Mr Paul Lemass, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, gave a commitment to remit the previously withdrawn €750,000 local government fund allocation to the Council; (b) indicating if minutes were taken of the meetings (c) indicating the names of other officials and councillors who were present at the meetings.”

The Chief Executive advised the Meeting that, when the motion had been received, he had written to Mr. Lemass copying it to him and requesting a copy of the Minutes of the meeting he had attended. A reply had been received after 5.00 p.m. on Friday, 1st December, where Mr. Lemass had copied a number of documents of meetings held between Sligo County Council and the Department regarding the Financial Plan, but excluding a note of the meeting of 7th September, 2016. Members were advised that a copy of the documentation would be circulated.

The Chief Executive further advised the meeting that he had received a commitment from Mr Lemass that the €750,000 would be remitted to the Council when they got the financial plan submitted.  He said this commitment was given at a meeting on September 7th 2016.  He said the Secretary General of the Department and Mr Pat Gallagher of the CCMA had attended the meeting in addition to himself and Mr Lemass.

The Chief Executive also claimed that Councillor Keaney had told him that he had been given a similar commitment.  

Councillor Keaney said the claim was outrageous. He said he was not leaving the Chamber until it was agreed that at a meeting he attended with Mr. Lemass in June, 2015 that there was no commitment given in relation to the €750,000.  He asked the Chief Executive to withdraw it.

Following further exchanges,

It was proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That the meeting would stand adjourned for five minutes to discuss this matter further”.

The meeting adjourned at 3.20 p.m. and resumed at 3.35 p.m.

On resumption the Cathaoirleach said he was asking the Chief Executive if he accepted Councillor Keaney’s interpretation of the meeting of June, 2015. 

In response the Chief Executive said he could only stand over meeting and commitments that he was given and he accepted the word of Councillor Keaney.

The Cathaoirleach suggested that the matter would be brought back to the Corporate Policy Group early in 2018. Further, that the respective political parties would seek a meeting with Mr. Lemass to answer their queries.

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

AND AGREED

“Ask Mr. Lemass to meet with a Deputation from the Councillors”.”

It was further agreed, on the proposal of Councillor D. Bree, Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney, to confirm the amended minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 4th December, 2017.

 

7.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF DEVELOPMENT – “FLOWERHILL”, BUNNINADDEN:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge the development known as “Flowerhill”, Bunninadden, Co. Sligo by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993 to declare public the road serving the development”.

 

8.  PREPARATION OF SLIGO CULTURE AND CREATIVITY STRATEGY 2018-2022:

Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services outlined the background to the preparation of the Strategy. 

A report outlining details under the following headings had been circulated previously to the Members:

  1. Introduction – National Policy context,
  2. Enabling creativity in every community,
  3. Guidelines for determining strategic priorities and
  4. Timeline for the preparation of Sligo’s Culture and Creativity 2018-2022 plan.

In reply to queries raised by Councillor Queenan and Councillor Taylor, the Director of Services confirmed that the number of strategic priorities is a matter for each Local Authority.  It was anticipated that there would be no fewer than four and not more than seven.  It was felt that dealing with six or seven could be quite difficult with a suggested five to seven over the lifetime of the strategy.

The Members then agreed to note the preparation of the Sligo Culture and Creativity Strategy 2018 -2022.

 

9.  REPORT OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S AUDIT COMMITTEE/STATUTORY AUDIT REPORT FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2016:

The Cathaoirleach highlighted that the Report was very complimentary to the efforts made by the Executive and staff and this should be acknowledged. 

The Chief Executive said this was also a tribute to the Members in terms of their adoption of difficult budgets,  and made the comparison to the annual deficits of €2-€2.5 million each year in the past.  A further surplus is being worked towards for 2018.  The Chief Executive added that he would take the opportunity to compliment Marie Whelan and her team. 

The Head of Finance noted the comments and referred to a presentation she had also given at the recent Corporate Policy Group Meeting.  The points raised in the Auditor’s Report were appreciated by her team.  It was intended to bring an item before the Members at the April Meeting regarding over-expenditure due to issues such as the gorse fires in 2017.  Other areas have come in under budget.  The areas of rate collection, loans and rent arrears were also quite good.

Members added their compliments and thanks to the Head of Finance and her team for their work.

In reply to a query raised by Councillor Bree, the Head of Finance and Chief Executive clarified the legal fees referred to by the Auditor and confirmed that, when the cases are dealt with, the details and costs will be provided.

It was proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

“Noting that the Local Government Auditor in his report (Par. 8.2.) has referred to a review of correspondence received from the Council solicitor identifying a number of legal cases where adequate provision has not been included in the accounts pertaining to outstanding court cases, this meeting requests the Chief Executive to provide the Council with details of the legal cases referred to by the auditor and the associated costs of same”.

The Chief Executive confirmed that this would not be possible as the cases were going through the legal process.  Costs would not be known until the outcome.  The Council could seek legal advice if the Members so wished.  It might not be possible to divulge the information in a public manner but would be at a later stage, i.e. at the conclusion of the court case.

Councillor Bree enquired if legal advice had been given to the Council that this information could not be released.  It was his opinion, he said, that the information could be provided as the Auditor had received correspondence in relation to it.  He then continued that legal advice should be sought.

It was confirmed by the Chief Executive that this could be done.

 

It was then proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“Noting that the Local Government Auditor in his report (Par. 8.2.) has referred to a review of correspondence received from the Council solicitor identifying a number of legal cases where adequate provision has not been included in the accounts pertaining to outstanding court cases, this meeting requests the Chief Executive to provide the Council with details of the legal cases referred to by the auditor and the associated costs of same, subject to it being cleared by the Council’s legal people”.

The Members then agreed to note the report of Sligo County Council’s Audit Committee / Statutory Audit Report for year ending 31st December 2016.

 

10.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – NOVEMBER 2017:

Under this item, Councillor C. MacManus queried two entries in the Chief Executive’s Diary for November 2017:

  1. 7th November – Meeting with I.T. re. “Smart Cities” and
  2. 29th November – Meeting with Revenue Collectors.

The Chief Executive clarified as follows:

  1. The Meeting was in order to advance a briefing document in relation to “Smart Cities”.  This process is now in a position to go out to Tender.  It was hoped to revert to the Members in the coming months regarding the matter.
  2. Meetings with the Income Task Force and the Chief Executive take place on a monthly basis.  In addition, periodic meetings are held with the Revenue Collectors to monitor income streams and to ensure they continue to improve.

The Monthly Management Report for November 2017 was then noted by the Members.

 

11.  AMENDMENT OF STANDING ORDERS RE. ‘HOUR OF MEETING’:

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

AND AGREED

“To amend Article 5 of Standing Orders for Sligo County Council - ‘Hour of meeting’ to read – the hour of meeting of the Council shall be at 10.00 a.m. or at such hour as may from time to time be fixed by resolution of the Council, meetings starting at 10.00 a.m. to finish by 5.00 p.m.”

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR DISCUSSION ON ISSUES WITH THE DEPARTMENT:

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

AND AGREED

“That standing orders be suspended to allow the Council to consider the claim made by the Chief Executive at our last meeting that Mr. Paul Lemass, the Asst. Secretary of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, had given a commitment at a meeting of September 7th, 2016 to remit the previously withdrawn €750,000 local government fund allocation to the Council and to consider the response to the claim made by the Minister in the Dáil on the 12th December, 2017”.

The meeting adjourned at 11.45 a.m. and was scheduled to resume at 12.15 p.m.

Councillor Bree said no commitment was given in relation to the €750,000 and he was at a loss to understand why the Chief Executive was making such absurd and irrational claims. Sligo is the only county getting a bail out, we are on a collision course with the Department and we need to work with them in a spirit of co-operation.  We need Chief Executive to cease this behaviour. 

In response, the Chief Executive stated that Sligo and the local communities had moved on and that his preference was to engage with the Members including Councillor Bree on the issues of relevance and importance for the development of Sligo.  These included

  • maximising the Tourism potential
  • Promotion of economic development
  • Initiatives like the Trade Office in Providence and partnership with Knock Airport
  • Positioning Sligo as a Smart City.

These and other initiatives were outlined as the future for Sligo and he invited the Members to work with the Executive in shaping that future rather than the current practice of negative engagement.

He highlighted flaws to the current process stating that the Department was not present at this meeting, that a number of administrative law principles had not been adhered to and that Councillor Bree had, through his comments in the media, drawn conclusions in advance of the matter being considered by the Council Members.

With regard to the specific issue, he stood over the claim that a commitment was given by a Department official that the €750,000 would be remitted when the Financial Plan was approved.  He stated that he had been consistent in the matter and he circulated correspondence to that effect, highlighting that the claims made regarding the return of the €750,000 were not denied by the Department, nor were the letters replied to.

It was also now clear that two commitments were given by the Department, one to the Management Team and a second to the meeting with the deputation of Councillors.  Neither commitment had been honoured.

The Chief Executive advised that he again communicated with the Department following the response to the Parliamentary Questions.  In the Department’s reply, he noted that it was now acknowledged that a commitment was given to the Management Team although differences remained as to the nature of that commitment.  He also highlighted a claim in the reply to the effect that the Department now considered an additional €250,000 to have been paid to Sligo County Council, a claim that he refuted.

He then turned to the substantive issue, which was the manner in which Councillor Bree exercised his power of oversight over the Executive.  He stated that it was unfair and led to unnecessary conflict, negative publicity and reputational damage for Sligo.

Citing his role of oversight of over 400 staff, he stated that it would be unprofessional if he used the media to humiliate or castigate the staff, that it would be unfair of him to run to the media in the event of a mistake or even a perceived mistake on the part of staff.  He considered it would reflect negatively on him as a professional and as a person.  Yet he claimed that this was the approach of Councillor Bree.  In stating it was unfair, he also stated that where it happened on a regular basis, it was potentially an abuse of power.

He further took exception to the implication in the “Sligo Weekender” of 21st December, 2017 which implied that he was lying in relation to this matter and he advised that he was reserving his position in that regard.

He stated that the manner in which Councillor Bree uses the media as a tool or conduit to cast aspersions on the good name, character and integrity of the Executive and staff was wrong, that it was wrong to seek to humiliate a member of staff or any individual in this way, that it was wrong to draw conclusions in the absence of the full facts or without affording the opportunity to be heard or any form of due process and that it was potentially an abuse of power.

Head of Finance Marie Whelan said the Management Team was given a commitment to facilitate a process of getting €750k, that has always been our emphasis. Councillor Bree always uses the term ‘bailout money’, it is actually the Local Government Fund that is still due to us.   Ms Whelan said she concurred with the Chief Executive’s comments in relation to the effects of the negative comments.

Director of Service, Dorothy Clarke said she was present at the meeting when the commitment was given in relation to the €750,000. She added that the manipulation of the media to portray staff in a negative fashion was inappropriate, and added that this type of behaviour was nothing new.

Director of Services Tom Kilfeather said a very clear commitment was given in relation to the €750,000.   He stated that this was going on for far too long and cannot be allowed to continue. Mr Kilfeather added that Councillor Bree uses the media to belittle and run down the Executive,  it was unacceptable and none of this is for the benefit of Sligo. On balance we do we reasonable job.

Senior Executive Officer John Moran advised that he attended the meeting February 2015 when the commitment was given to pay the money to the Council when the Financial Plan was ‘over the line.’

Head of Enterprise John Reilly said he had no doubt the commitment was given, and said the continuing negative publicity was damaging in terms of efforts to attract investment to Sligo.

Councillor Hubert Keaney said he had never met Paul Lemass on his own, and on no occasion did he ever give a commitment in relation to the €750k.

Councillor M. Clarke said that it hurt to see people under so much pressure. It is not fair working in that environment, it is totally wrong. He asked that the Council draw a line under this matter, stating that there are political failings here far more than management failings.

Councillor T. MacSharry said it was very encouraging to see the improvement in the financial situation. We are going from strength to strength and should unite behind the Executive. Confidence has been built, re-opening of Lissadell House, successive Fleadhanna, Royal Visit, Maritime Centre.

 

It was proposed by Councillor Baker, Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan to adjourn for a further 15 minutes to 12.30 p.m.

Councillor M. Baker said we are taking abuse at ground level. It is now time to move on and start anew.  We have lost respect for each other; we should try and work together for the betterment of the county. 

Councillor J. Queenan said this is a very serious issue. He was Cathaoirleach at the time when finances were in a dire state. Minister Kelly threatened to close the Council if a Financial Plan was not put in place.  The debate is now is about what was said or not said.  Things have improved, and we should move on now for the benefit of the county.

Councillor H Keaney said there is no question but that people worked tirelessly on this issue.   On no occasion did Mr. Lemass give a commitment in relation to the €750k. If the Financial Plan was in place, he would make a recommendation to the Minister to refund it. There is an unfortunate lack of communication between the Executive and Department.  We are on the crest of huge investment in Sligo, and we need to maximise that.

Councillor S. Maguire said she found this very disturbing, and it was also a waste of energy and time.  When she joined the Council, the finances dire. Faced with many difficult decisions, many projects have brought those to fruition by the staff.  There has been a very positive Audit Report. Councillor Maguire stated that she will not be associated with this negativity in any way.

Councillor T. Healy recalled that his first motion when elected in 2014 was that a deputation would meet with the Minister over finances of Sligo County Council.  Discussions between Paul Lemass and the C.E. have broken down.  That deputation should meet again and draw a line under it.   Everyone wears the jersey today, we should   move forward and get this done and dusted. 

Councillor P. Taylor said his view of the debate was that we going over the same issues again and again and it was time to move on.

Councillor K. Henry said he could see the strain on the staff - they do the best they can with the resources they have.  We all have political contacts at Senate, Dáil and Cabinet level.  There are positive projects coming down the line, and I would hope that we can move on from the discourse of the past.

Councillor M. Gormley said it is a sad day for County Sligo.  People are suffering and it is time to bury the hatchet and start afresh.   People will have to examine their conscience in relation to the whole matter; there is give and take on both sides.  I have no doubt that the Management Team are committed to the betterment of County Sligo, including South Sligo.   Let us get on with the business of Sligo County Council.

Councillor C. MacManus said he spent fifteen years on Sligo Borough Council.  This discussion is sad to hear and seems to be continuously flogged to death.  Sligo Borough Council was under a cloud of negativity at that time.   99% of the time, the Executive and Members are moving in the one direction.  This thing has taken on a life of its own, compounding the negative image of the county.  We need to draw a line and move on in a positive and progressive manner in 2018. 

Councillor D. Mulvey said he is Councillor since 2009, and he believes that nothing has been solved by division.  18 Councillors and Executive are part of a team.  Nothing will be achieved unless a line is drawn in the sand, and we should be on the one hymn sheet.

The Cathaoirleach said he had always been treated with the utmost respect by the Executive and we were now on the cusp of major capital investment in the county.   He advised the meeting that he was in contact with Deputy MacSharry requesting a meeting with the Minister and a reply was awaited.

The Chief Executive thanked the Cathaoirleach and Members for their comments, and re-iterated that the staff had brought professionalism, creativity and innovation to their work.  It is time for both elected members and staff to work together for the betterment of Sligo and its communities. 

Councillor Bree referred to the dates outlined by the Chief Executive and noted that if a Minister misleads the Dáil it is a resigning matter. He repeated that the Minister had said no commitment was given and that he accepted the Minister’s word on that.  He stated that he is not answerable to the Chief Executive, and the 1800 people who voted for him expect him to work in the manner he has over the years.

The Cathaoirleach concluded the discussion by advising Members that he will contact them when Deputy MacSharry reverts with an update on the proposed meeting with the Minister.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned at 12.50 p.m. and resumed at 1.55 p.m.

 

12.  PROPOSED CHANGES TO WASTE PERMITS:

At the request of Councillor MacManus, and with the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, this item was deferred to the Agenda of the February 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.”

 

14.  REPORT ON HOUSING SITUATION IN SLIGO:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Councillor Clarke’s notice of motion

“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on Sligo's housing situation”.

was deferred to the Agenda of the February Ordinary Meeting.

 

15.  STRANDHILL WATER TREATMENT PLANT:

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

“I welcome the news that Irish Water have signed the contracts to update the water treatment plant in Strandhill. This is a vital investment in the development of Strandhill and is long over due.

This motion seeks that the Council confirm whether this opportunity has been taken to re-fit the existing plant?  The cost would be the lowest possible because the contractor would already be onsite, and it would add again to capacity and avoid having to retro fit the plant in the future.

The council might also confirm what the plans are for the temporary plant which was put in place during development of Ocean links in the village?”

Mr. Kilfeather provided the Meeting with a detailed report outlining the capacity, what would be included in the new plant and design details.

In relation to Ocean links development, the Director of Services reported that it is understood that the temporary plant at the Ocean Links Strandhill is owned and operated by the residents/development company. On commissioning of the municipal plant upgrade the owners may apply to Irish Water for a connection to the public system.

Councillor Maguire thanked the Director of Services for his report and said that it was her understanding that the works were to commence in the coming weeks.  In particular, she welcomed the reference to the design for Strandhill Wastewater Treatment Plant being modular in nature, which would facilitate future expansion by addition of treatment streams when required.

 

16.  COURT ABBEY BURIAL GROUND, LAVAGH:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor J. Lundy, was deferred to the Agenda of the February Ordinary Meeting:

 “To ask Sligo County Council if a suitable location has been identified for a new Burial Ground at Court Abbey, Lavagh as the present Cemetery is almost full”.

 

17.  FODDER SHORTAGE IN SLIGO:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor J. Lundy, was deferred to the Agenda of the February Ordinary Meeting:

“Due to the very wet weather small Farmers in Sligo and the north west are facing into a fodder shortage this winter.  I will ask this Council to write to the Minister for Agriculture to provide financial supports to these Farmers to help them purchase the necessary feed stuff for their livestock”.

 

18.  STUDENT FEES FOR UNDERGRADUATE COURSES:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Casserly, was deferred to the Agenda of the February Ordinary Meeting:

“To call on the Minister for Education to review the situation in relation to student fees for undergraduate courses as Irish fees are the second highest in Europe only behind the UK. A lot of EU countries have free fees for undergraduate courses and maintenance supports for all undergraduate students. This review should include consideration for tax relief on the €3000 student contribution for hard pressed families who have already paid income tax on this money.”

 

19.  SLIGO-LEITRIM GREENWAY PROJECT:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Casserly, was deferred to the Agenda of the February Ordinary Meeting:

“Can Sligo County Council provide a current update on the negotiations between both the local authorities of Sligo and Leitrim on the SLNCR Greenway Project. 

This project has to be shovel ready as soon as possible to achieve funding and would be a perfect vehicle to create tourism and economic benefits to the area as seen in Mulranny and Waterford by their Greenways.

This fantastic tourism and recreation project will support the creation of many jobs including, tourism, retail and construction related jobs which are significantly lacking in this region”.

 

20.  IRISH RAIL FARES FOR PASSENGERS AGED UNDER 16:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Transport asking him to contact the National Transport Authority requesting them to consider a State-wide policy whereby all 16-18 year olds are charged a child’s rate on public transport”.

Members were unanimous in support of this motion and complimented Councillor Healy for raising the issue.

 

13.  DETAILS OF COMPENSATION CLAIMS PAID:

At the request of Councillor D. Bree, and with the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item was deferred to the Agenda of the February Meeting to allow for the compilation of the information requested.

“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.”

The Chief Executive advised the meeting that the information was being compiled and expected that it would be available for the February meeting.

21.  I.C.T.U./TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council supports the Irish Congress of Trade Unions in calling on the Government to amend existing legislation or introduce new legislation so as to provide:

  1. A right in law to a guaranteed minimum number of working hours and a legal prohibition on zero-hour contracts;
  2. A right to be paid compensation at the pay rate if no work is made available;
  3. An amendment to the Terms of Information Employment Act to require an employer to provide a written statement of terms and conditions of employment, including working hours, from day one of employment;
  4. The right to claim an alteration to the contract of employment in respect of working hours if, over a specified reference period, their actual working hours were in excess of their contracted hours;
  5. Furthermore we call on the Government to take action on bogus/false self-employment practices.  It must publish the report of the public consultation on this issue which closed on March 31st 2016 and move to the development of regulations and the closure of loopholes in the tax system which facilitates their use.”

 

22.  ROAD OPENING LICENCES:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director for Roads & Infrastructure to outline the Council’s policy on the issuing of road-opening licences to private contractors detailing in regards to urban and rural roads; and residential and non-residential\commercial areas.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported to the meeting as follows:

All road opening applications in Sligo are applied for via the MapRoad Roadworks Licensing system.

MapRoad Roadworks Licensing is the new national system for the management and processing of roadworks licence applications.  This system is maintained by the Road Management Office, which is a National Shared service.

Applications for road opening licences can only be made by pre-approved contractors onto the national website.

On receipt of an application on line, the relevant Sligo County Council Area Engineer is assigned the application for processing.  Having carried out an inspection of the proposed works, fees and conditions including conditions specific to the area involved are assigned by the Area Engineer, these must be agreed to by the applicant prior to the licence application proceeding.

The Road Opening Licence is granted when all fees have been paid in full by the applicant.

Councillor MacManus raised further points in relation to

  • timing of works
  • suggestion that works would be prohibited in residential areas after 7.00 p.m.
  • temporary relocation of Quay Street Taxi rank to Wine Street
  • lack of information and forewarning of works at various locations.

The Director of Services advised the meeting that generally there would not be a restriction.  Some of the points raised referred to the water mains rehabilitation works project.  Mr. Kilfeather indicated that he would relay the comments made and make staff aware of the concerns raised.  It was not usual that the Council would have Contractors working like there had been over the previous 18 months and during the night. 

The Director of Services added, in relation to the Taxi rank, that the level of communication for the whole scheme had been ongoing.  It was noted that he had also made a presentation regarding the Sligo water mains & sewer rehabilitation project to the Sligo Municipal District in November where details of the works had been outlined.

 

23.  FUNDING FOR AREAS OF NATURAL CONSTRAINT (A.N.C.):

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor M. Casserly, was deferred to the Agenda of the February Ordinary Meeting:

“As the Department of Agriculture was running €128.5m behind profile in gross voted expenditure for the first 11 months of 2017, I am now calling on the Department to pay the additional funding left over into the Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) scheme, allowing €50m into it instead of €25m promised by the Government, and to reopen the GLAS Scheme to new entrants. I am also calling for an adequate fodder crisis scheme to support farmers in need each year.”

 

24.  DEFENCE FORCES – PERMANENT STRUCTURED CO-OPERATION (PESCO):

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

“That Sligo County Council expresses grave concern at the recent decision to integrate the Irish Defence Forces into the EU military apparatus under the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO). Further, this Council agrees that this decision shows a flagrant disregard for Ireland’s long standing and principled position on military neutrality.”

Following a discussion on the motion, a vote was called which resulted as follows:

FOR:  Councillor Bree, Councillor Gormley, Councillor Healy, Councillor Kilgannon and Councillor MacManus (5)

AGAINST:  Councillor Henry, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Mulvey and Councillor Taylor (4)

ABSTAINED:  Councillor Maguire (1)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the motion carried.

 

25.  REPAIRS TO FOOTPATHS ON TEELING STREET, BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to repair the footpaths on Teeling Street, Ballymote and regularise parking in the square area close to the court house”.

Director of Services, Mr. T. Kilfeather reported that Sligo County Council will carry out footpath repairs along Teeling Street and surfacing works to the square area in 2018. It is also intended to line the car park area in the square which should help to regularise parking.

 

26.  CRASH BARRIERS ON R293 AT DERROON:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to install crash barriers on the R293 at Derroon close to the junction with the L1501”.

Mr. T. Kilfeather reported that Sligo County Council intend to improve signage along the section of the R293 from Ballymote to Clarkes Bridge. These works will be carried out in early 2018. Improvement of the road signage to the bend at Deroon should help to slow down traffic which is the main cause for vehicles veering off the road at this location. Sligo County Council will monitor this location over the next 12 months.

Councillor Henry said that he had spoken with the Area Engineer.  A barrier was in place at this location.  It was felt, however, that it would be more beneficial on the opposite side of the road.  The signage would be appreciated but he asked that the matter of the barrier would be kept under review.

 

27.  WATER MAINS IN RATHBRAUGHAN AREA, SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Irish Water regarding the ongoing problem with burst water mains in the Rathbraughan area. And what do Irish Water intend to do to address the situation”.

The matter had been referred to Irish Water on receipt of the notice of motion.  However, the Director of Services reported that a reply was awaited.

28.  IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON THE LOUGH GILL LOOP ROAD (L7428):

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

AND AGREED

“To request a report on improvement work on the Lough Gill Loop Road L7428.  St. Angela’s College has over 1,500 Students with the addition of staff who use this road on a daily basis.  Sligo County Council agreed motion no. 54 at the March 2017 Meeting requesting improvement of this road.”

Road No. L-7428 was included in the 2017 restoration maintenance programme.   Works comprised verge trimming, drainage improvements and approximately 400m of surface dressing.  Preliminary investigations are on-going regarding very minor improvements to this roadway during 2018.  Such works are likely to comprise very localised road widening and removal of sharp bends close to the entrance to St. Angela’s College.  Over and above this, the Roads Department will shortly commence the process of preparing a three year multi-annual road works programme.  The L-7428 may be considered for further improvements during the life of this three year programme, the meeting was advised by the Director of Services.

 

29.  TAKING IN CHARGE – RADHARC NA H-ABHAINN ESTATE, COOLANEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on the taking in charge of Radharc na hAbhainn estate, Coolaney”.

Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services reported that outstanding works are required to be completed by the Developer to bring this estate up to a satisfactory standard so that it can be taken in charge.  We are waiting for the developer to respond to recent communications from the Council and to meet with officials on site and agree all outstanding works.  A sufficient bond is in place with a bank to cover the costs of outstanding works.  These works should be completed in 2018.

 

30.  REPAIRS TO ROAD L2802 FROM COOLANEY TO N59:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to include road repairs on L2802 from Coolaney to N59”.

Mr. Kilfeather replied that Sligo County Council is aware of the condition of this road and will address this in the course of our routine pothole repairs of roads in the area which is currently ongoing.

 

31.  REPAIRS TO WALKWAY AT STRANDHILL CAR PARK:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask what works the Council will carry out to repair the walkway between the two slipways at the southern end of Strandhill Car Park, and further to clear the rubble from the slipways to make Strandhill beach more accessible for public use.”

The Meeting was informed by Mr. Kilfeather that Sligo County Council has surveyed the area in question and acknowledge that the condition of the pathway and slipway access has deteriorated due to recent storm activity. Repairs will be carried out in coming weeks subject to department funding being made available.

 

32.  CENTENARY OF ELECTION OF CONSTANCE MARKIEVICZ:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council appropriately recognise the centenary of the election of Constance Markievicz and the centenary of the extension of the political franchise to women this year”.

The Chief Executive confirmed that this was a matter for the Members.  If a decision was made to mark it in some respect, the Elected Members would have to advise the Executive what they intended to do and to identify a budget for the works.

Following a brief discussion, it was agreed that the former 1916 Commemoration Committee, together with Councillor K. Henry, would meet to discuss his proposal.

 

33.  FAIRGREEN RECREATIONAL PARK, TEMPLE STREET, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“Noting that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has indicated that the application for grant aid for the next phase of the Fairgreen Recreational Park which was submitted by Sligo County Council in 2017 was considered invalid because the requirements of the Capital Sports Programme were  not satisfied,  this Council calls on the Chief Executive to provide a report: (a) indicating why the requirements of the sports capital programme was not satisfied and (b) indicating what steps the Executive is now taking to ensure a valid application is submitted for grant aid under the 2018 Capital Sports Programme.”

The Council’s application under the 2017 Sports Capital Programme in respect to grant aid for the Fairgreen Recreational Park was deemed invalid because title to the Fairgreen is not registered in Land Registry.  We will work closely with the Land Asset Management Section to ensure that this matter is addressed promptly and in advance of the call for funding under the 2018 Sports Capital Programme.  It is noteworthy however that the Council were successful in receiving funding in two of three applications during 2017 the Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather. 

Councillor Healy asked that information would also be provided to community groups that might also be affected by the criteria in place for the Programme.  This was agreed by the Meeting.

 

34.  ROAD L5601 FROM FIVE CROSS ROADS (VIA LECARROW) TO TEMPLEHOUSE:

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

AND AGREED

“Due to the ongoing deterioration of section of road L5601 from the Five cross roads via Lecarrow to Templehouse that this section of road is included in the Roadwork Scheme 2018”.

Director of Services, Mr. T. Kilfeather reported that a section of the L-5601 at Portinch will be included for consideration when drafting the 2018 Restoration Improvement Programme.

 

35.  FOODER AID PACKAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“Following on from my motion of December requesting the Minister for Agriculture, Food & Marine, Michael Creed T.D to put a Fodder Aid Package in place for farmers in the West of Ireland due to the shortage of fodder facing many farmers. The fact that nothing has happened since I am requesting that this Council seek a urgent meeting with the Minister on this matter, and that we seek the support of the T.D.s from the area to set up the meeting. Also that the farming organisations be part of the deputation”.

 

36.  PROVISION OF A PRIMARY CARE CENTRE, TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Minister for Health, Simon Harris T.D. to make the necessary funding available to allow the next stage proceed which is developed design for the provision of a Primary Care Centre for Tubbercurry”.

 

37.  LEASING/RENTAL OF PROPERTIES IN COUNTY COUNCIL OWNERSHIP:

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

“Noting that the Council at its meeting on the 12th of December 2016 directed the Chief Executive Officer to provide the Council with a list of properties in the ownership of the Council (other than local authority dwellings houses) which are being rented/leased; and also to provide the Council with details of the annual rental income on each of the said properties, in addition to details of the arrears owing, if any, in respect of the said properties, and to note that the Chief Executive has failed to provide the said information, this Council now requests the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government to introduce legislation which will compel Chief Executive Officers to carry out the directions of the elected Council.”

Mr. Moran, Acting Director of Services advised the Meeting that it had been due to an oversight that the information requested had not issued.  On the basis of this explanation the motion was withdrawn by the proposer and seconder.

 

38.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF “LISSADELL PARK”, CARNEY:

With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, the following notice of motion submitted by Councillor O’Grady was deferred to the February Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“To receive an update on the taking in charge of ‘Lissadell Park’, Carney”.

 

39.  TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES AND UPGRADING OF ROAD SURFACE ON OAKFIELD ROAD, SLIGO:

With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, the following notice of motion submitted by Councillor O’Grady was deferred to the February Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“That Sligo County Council review traffic calming measures for Oakfield Road and the upgrading of road surfaces where necessary”.

 

40.  UPGRADING OF ROAD SURFACE AT KEVINSFORT, SLIGO:

With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, the following notice of motion submitted by Councillor O’Grady was deferred to the February Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“That Sligo County Council put in place funding for upgrading of road surface at Kevinsfort where necessary”.

 

41.  FUNDING FOR LOCAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister to provide extra money for Local Improvement Schemes in the coming year and that the road to the monument at Carrowkeel, Castlebaldwin is included in that funding”.

 

42.  PROVISION OF FUNDING FOR CLASS II AND III COUNTY ROADS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister to provide funding for Class II and Class III roads in County Sligo due to damage caused by recent bad weather”.

 

JOB LOSSES IN SLIGO:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that Councillor Healy had asked that he be permitted to raise the matter of recent job losses in Sligo.

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on the I.D.A. and the Minister for Jobs and Enterprise to support and promote employment in the north west region following recent projected and actual closures”.

The Cathaoirleach agreed that it had been a great loss to the area when the announcements had been made regarding the job losses at Union Foods and Prominent Precision Engineering.  The latter was due to their Parent Company carrying out a rationalisation. 

 

43.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Reynolds of Rathedmond, Sligo on the death of her mother, Kathleen Queenan.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paula Gallagher (Sligo County Council Finance Staff Member) of Aclare on the death of her mother, Mary.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Derek Costello (Sligo County Council Housing Staff Member) on the death of his mother, Angela.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Lorraine and Catherine Tonry of Marren Park, Ballymote on the death of their mother, Betty.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bridie Lavin of Ranaghan, Coolaney on the death of her husband, Joe.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to John Walsh and family of Kilvarnet, Ballinacarrow on the death of his wife, Phil.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gerard Scanlon of Portmarnock, Co. Dublin on the death of his wife, Connie.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Henry Carr of Castleoye, Tubbercurry on the death of his brother, Paddy.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Barrett of Ballinvalley, Lavagh on the death of her mother, Evelyn Hunt.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Frank Molloy of Carnagople, Tubbercurry on the death of his father, John.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mai Durkin of Floughena, Doocastle on the death of her husband, John.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Fowley of Kiernan Avenue, Collooney on the death of her uncle, Joe Kelly.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Fechin McMorrow Jnr. of

Kiernan Avenue, Collooney on the death of his father, Fechin Snr.

 

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

 

44.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Councillor Paul Taylor and his wife Naomi on the birth of their son.

 

45.  CONFERENCES:

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

AND AGREED

“To note and approve the Conferences and Training list previously circulated.”

 

46.  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.

 

CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED:

  1. The correspondence which had been circulated to the Members with the Agenda was noted.
  2. Reply from the Office of President Michael D. Higgins re. the official naming of the Martin Savage Bridge in Ballisodare.  The Members noted that this event was scheduled to take place at 4.00 p.m. on Friday, 20th April, 2018.
  3. Councillor Gormley expressed her disappointment at the lack of response from correspondence sent to An Garda Síochána re. Tubbercurry Garda Station.  Councillor Henry indicated that a new Superintendent had been appointed to Ballymote Garda Station, which covers the Tubbercurry area, and suggested that a copy of the earlier correspondence would be forwarded to him.

 

48.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

49.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

  1. Councillor Keaney said he wished to compliment staff on recent traffic calming works in Rathcormack.  The Cathaoirleach supported the comments made by Councillor Keaney.
  2. The Meetings Adminstrator referred to a request from the H.S.A. for use of the Sligo County Council logo in upcoming training. 

It was proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“That Dillon Productions are granted permission to use the Sligo County Council logo, as an example, in their e-learning course for the H.S.A.”.

  1. Councillor P. Taylor thanked the staff involved in the public awareness works surrounding the recent storm.  The emergency services were also on hand quickly to assist those affected. 

 

END OF MEETING:

The business of the Meeting concluded at 3.35 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 15/01/2018