Minutes 2018

Minutes of March Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 5th March, 2018 at 10am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

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

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Mr. Bartley Gavin, A/Director of Services
  • Mr. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
  • Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer
  • Mr. Stephen Ward, Senior Executive Planner
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Jimmy O’Brien, Administrative Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Damian Kelly, IS Analyst Developer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor S. Kilgannon, presided.

 

 

Apologies were received from Councillor Baker and Councillor O’Boyle.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 18TH DECEMBER, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District Meeting held on 18th December, 2017”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 5TH FEBRUARY, 2018:

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor H Keaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 5th February, 2018”.

 

3.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF ESTATE KNOWN AS “HIGHFIELD (PHASE 2)”, TUBBERCURRY:

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 “Highfield (Phase 2)”, 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.  DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS – ‘SPRINGVALE’ AND ‘SPRINGVALE HEIGHTS’,

TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, being satisfied of their general public utility, declare the Roads named below to be Public Roads in accordance with Section 11 (1) of the Roads Act, 1993:

Road NumbersLocation
L82095-0, L82095-1, L82095-2, L82095-3 and L82095-4 The roads serving developments known as ‘Springvale’ and ‘Springvale Heights’, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo.” 

 

5.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT BALLURE, CALRY TO MS. COLETTE FLYNN:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of property at Ballure, Calry to Ms. Colette Flynn”.

 

6.  CAPITAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME – DWELLING HOUSE AT TULLYCUSHEEN, TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance to Respond!,in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme for the acquisition of a dwelling house at Tullycusheen, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo”.

 

7.  CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ARTS GRANTS SCHEME 2018:

A report was circulated to the Members outlining options available to the Members for their decision in relation to the grants awards for the Contribution to the Arts Grant Scheme for 2018.

41 applications had been considered, consisting of 16 under ‘Arts Venues and Organisations’ and 25 under ‘Festivals and Events’. 

The recommendation of the Assessment Panel to the Council Members was for their approval of 29 allocations listed in the report.

The Chief Executive outlined the background to the issue and recalled the observations of Members at the February meeting, where the funding requests for Sligo Live and the Model were discussed.  He advised Members that, since the meeting of the Assessment Panel, further discussions had taken place with the Head of Finance.  A further option had then emerged which was outlined as follows – as part of the process of closing accounts for 2017, Ms. Whelan had identified a sum of €5,000 that could be allocated to the Scheme for 2018.  This would mean leaving Awards on the list as they are and use that €5,000 allocation to grant ‘The Model’ and ‘Sligo Live’ and bring them up by €3,000 and €2,000 respectively.  It was proposed by Councillor Keaney, seconded by Councillor O’Grady, and agreed that the allocations be granted as outlined, and accordingly it was

 

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the recommendations of the Arts Assessment Committee on the Contribution to Arts Grants Scheme 2018”.

It was further

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

AND AGREED

“That a Committee be set up to oversee and assess the distribution of community grants and the new source of funding originally from Bord Fáilte”.

 

8.  DRAFT CASUAL TRADING BYE-LAWS 2018:

In reply to queries raised by Members, Mr. Kilfeather clarified a number of issues regarding the public consultation process, location of trading bays and allocation of licences.

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“Having considered the Draft Casual Trading Bye-Laws 2018 and taking account of the report outlined at the SPC2 Meeting held on 26th February 2018, the statutory obligations of the Local Authority and any relevant guidelines, policies or objectives for the time being of the Government or of any Minister of the Government, it is hereby resolved in accordance with the Casual Trading Act 1995, that the Draft Casual Trading Bye-Laws 2018 be put on public display for a period of not less than 6 weeks”.

 

9.  COUNTY SLIGO DIASPORA STRATEGY 2018-2022:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To note the development of the County Sligo Diaspora Strategy, 2018-2022”.

 

10.  MUNICIPAL DISTRICT WORKS FOR 2018 - ROADS, TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE:

The Director of Services presented a report on the Municipal District Works Programme for Transportation and infrastructure. With the Cathaoirleach’s agreement, the Director also outlined details on the Council’s activities in response to recent Storm Emma. It was noted by Members and the Executive that Sligo had been fortunate to avoid the worst of the effects, and the work of a number of the local authority’s staff was also acknowledged.

Mr. Kilfeather outlined the criteria applying to Local Improvement and Community Involvement Schemes.

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To approve the Schedule of Ballymote/Tobercurry Municipal District Works for 2018 for Roads, Transportation & Infrastructure and the Schedule of the Sligo Municipal District Works for 2018 for Roads, Transportation & Infrastructure as per reports and maps submitted”.

 

54.  REQUEST FOR SAFETY MEASURES AT ROUNDABOUT IN STRANDHILL:

As Item 54 on the Agenda was relevant to the discussion just concluded, the Cathaoirleach indicated he would deal with Councillor Maguire’s motion at this time.

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

AND AGREED

“Bearing in mind the huge volume of road use both pedestrian and vehicular in Strandhill, the growth in popularity of walking and in particular the various walking trails which have been developed around the village and the promotion of encouraging the children to walk to school there is a vital need to provide a safe system of crossing the road at the roundabout in Strandhill that this council will lobby the department to re- instigate the significant improvement scheme”.

The Director of Services advised the meeting that Sligo County Council Area staff and Road design staff had discussed the provision of crossings at the roundabout in question some weeks back and will apply for funding for these works in 2019.

 

11.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORTS FOR DECEMBER 2017 AND JANUARY 2018:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Reports for December 2017 and January 2018”.

 

12.  ROADS FUNDING IN SLIGO ENGINEERING AREAS FOR 2016 AND 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask for a table to be produced showing the amount of roads funding spent in each engineering area for 2017 and 2016 categorising it by road type (regional, class 2, class 3, LIS etc)”.

The Director of Services indicated that there would entail a considerable volume of work. Councillor Henry asked that the motion would remain on the agenda until the Executive could provide the information requested.

 

13.  STORM DAMAGE TO MULLAGHMORE HARBOUR:

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

AND AGREED

“Concerned at the damage caused to the North and South piers of Mullaghmore Harbour by recent storms and the major silting at the pontoon and mouth of the harbour, this Council calls on Government and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide the necessary grant aid to allow the Council: (1) to repair and restore the piers to their original condition, and (2) to remove the silt from the mouth of the harbour.”

Mr. Kilfeather presented a report detailing the situation in relation to repair work and the removal of the silt at the mouth of the harbour. Following a discussion on this matter, the Director of Services indicated that he would write to the Department again in relation to this issue.

 

14.  PROMOTION OF TOURISM IN WEST SLIGO:.

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“What funding have Sligo County Council available to promote tourism in west Sligo for 2018?”

Ms. Clarke reported to the Meeting that Sligo County Council is committed to the promotion of tourism in the county, recognising it as a significant economic driver which has the potential to stimulate job creation in the County into the future.  Further detailed information was furnished to the meeting and the Director of Services was thanked by the Members for the details provided.

In reply to Councillor Casserly, the Director of Services confirmed that a link to the Tourism Strategy was available on the Council’s website.

Director of Services T Kilfeather advised that it was intended to re-open the refurbished playgrounds by the end of March.

 

15.  HOUSING GRANT ASSISTANCE FOR OLDER PEOPLE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queena

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to start taking in the applications for the older peoples grant immediately”.

Mr. Gavin informed the meeting that the main difficulty in accepting further applications was the amount of applications on hand well exceeded the funding available. He advised that it was anticipated that the Department would match the Council’s funding as had been done in the past.  However, even if that happened, that would not clear the backlog.  The importance of the works carried out under the grant scheme was appreciated by the Executive.  However, the demand far exceeded the funding and it was felt it would not be appropriate to accept applications and raise expectations.

The Director of Services undertook to revert to the Members following a re-examination of the system currently in place.

Councillor Clarke asked that this item would remain on the agenda due to the concerns raised. 

 

16.  COUNCIL LOAN AND AFFORDABLE HOME SCHEME:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, at the request of Councillor MacManus, the following motion deferred to the Agenda of the April Ordinary Meeting:

“To ask have Sligo County Council received any further information regarding either the recently announced revised Council loan scheme and an affordable home scheme, as the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government has indicated substantive local authority involvement in both schemes.”

 

17.  UNDOCUMENTED IRISH IN THE U.S.:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND AGREED

“I will ask the Council to write to the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. T.D. to put the undocumented Irish in the U.S. on the top of the agenda when he visits the White House on St. Patrick’s Day”.

 

18.  N17 JUNCTION (CASHEL GATES), CURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“Due to the recent funding allocated to improve the N17 junction known locally as ‘Cashel Gates’ in Curry, I will ask what works are planned for this very dangerous junction and when will these works start”.

The Director of Services outlined the timeframe in relation to the commencement of works at the location referred to.

 

19.  SURVEY OF SPEED BUMPS:

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

“Seeking Sligo County Council to conduct a survey of all speed bumps within the town of Sligo to establish whether they meet the criteria set down by the department and establish whether companies are following the established guidelines”  .

Following a discussion on the situation countywide, an amended wording for the resolution was 

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

AND AGREED

“Seeking Sligo County Council to conduct a survey of all speed bumps, the proposed survey of all speed bumps and raised cushions will be conducted throughout the county of Sligo, to establish whether they meet the criteria set down by the department and establish whether companies are following the established guidelines”  .

 

20.  PROVISION OF A TRAFFIC COUNTER IN CULFADDA VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to place a traffic counter on the main road through Culfadda village, south Sligo as there is growing concern with residents in the village with regards to excessive speed.  There are a lot of families with young children and elderly people living in Culfadda”. 

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that, as requested, Sligo County Council would place traffic counters in Culfadda to ascertain speed levels through the village.

 

21.  SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL INTERVIEW PROCESS VIA SKYPE:

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

AND AGREED

“To receive an update on the motion I proposed last year - That Sligo County Council facilitate emigrants abroad who wish to interview for upcoming posts with said local authority by introducing remote methods including Skype”.

The Members were advised that this process had commenced and had been used by the Council.

 

22.  RECOGNITION OF THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF FILM DIRECTOR MARTIN MCDONAGH:

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“Recognising the multitude of international awards and nominations received by Martin McDonagh for his acclaimed film ‘Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri’ and his strong family connection with West Sligo and Easkey in particular, this Council adds our full congratulations to the many laurels bestowed upon him.

Further, we encourage him to give some consideration to filming within County Sligo in the future, and that this Council would positively engage with any production team to make such a project viable”.

Members further agreed that a proposal to host a Civic Reception for Mr. McDonagh would be brought before the Procedures Committee. In supporting the proposal, Councillor Keaney also asked that consideration would be given to a Civic Reception for the outgoing members of the Yeats Society in Sligo and this was agreed. 

 

23.  ADVANCEMENT OF SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT PROJECTS:

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

“In light of the publishing of the National Planning Framework and its strong focus on sustainable transport, what funds are available from central government for the advancement of sustainable transport projects?  What plans have Sligo County Council to prepare for the huge investment in Sustainable Transport proposed in the plan?”

It was agreed that this matter would be discussed at a later stage in the meeting.

 

24.  PLEBISCITE RE. OFFICIAL NAME OF ‘ENNISCRONE’:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

AND AGREED

“To Call on Sligo County Council to set a date to hold a plebiscite under Section 77 of Local Government Act 1946 (as amended) of the registered electors and ratepayers of Enniscrone to decide if they want the official name of Enniscrone to be changed from ‘Inishcrone’ to ‘Enniscrone’ in English and from ‘Inis Crabhann’ to ‘Inis Eiscir Abhainn’ in Irish.  This motion is being brought in recognition of the growing concern of the residents of ‘Enniscrone’ that their village has been officially misnamed  ”  .

Director of Services Ms. Clarke presented a report outlining the process and likely timescale associated with this proposal and advised that it was anticipated that a report  would be submitted to Sligo County Council for consideration at the April 2018 Ordinary Meeting.

The Chief Executive advised that the process being embarked on was complex but would bring the clarity required.  He stressed the importance of complying with the process to ensure the Council is not exposed to a challenge at a later stage.  In the event that the electorate in the area decided to change the name to ‘Enniscrone’, that decision would be honoured. 

The Chief Executive also highlighted the fact that there would be a cost to the Council associated with this process. Members welcomed the points made by the Chief Executive and requested that a date would be set as early as possible.

 

25.  FUNDING FOR CONSTRUCTION OF BOUNDARY WALL AT THE ‘WOODLANDS’ ESTATE IN BALLYTIVNAN:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Minister of Housing, Planning and Local Government to make funding available to construct a boundary wall to protect a number of homes in the Woodlands estate which is prone to flooding”.

Councillor Healy welcomed residents in the public gallery from the ‘Woodlands’ Estate who were attending the Meeting. Following a discussion, it was agreed to defer the matter to the agenda of the April Ordinary Meeting. It was requested that a letter would be issued to the Minister in the interim.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned at 12.45 p.m. and resumed at 1.10 p.m.

 

26.  UPGRADING OF ROAD L2101 FROM COOLANEY TO COLLOONEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council what plans it has to upgrade road L2101 Coolaney to Collooney and if it can be included in upgrade works for 2018. This is a very busy stretch of road with a serious of bad bends there has been some accidents and there are no road markings. The past number of years has seen an increase of local population as well as an increase in general traffic on this main link road.  School buses, delivery trucks, large commercial vehicles (e.g. refuse and fuel trucks) and Coillte vehicles (carrying timber logs from the surrounding forests) are all utilising this narrow road”  .

The Director of Services reported that this road is not included in the 2018 Roads Improvement programme for Sligo Municipal District. Sligo County Council will be developing a three year rolling programme in the coming months for the period 2019-2021. This road will be considered for inclusion under this programme.

 

27.  REQUEST FOR PROVISION OF A PEDESTRIAN CROSSING BETWEEN CEDAR DRIVE AND THE OAKFIELD ROUNDABOUT:

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

AND AGREED

“In welcoming the upgrading of the Maugheraboy road between Cedar Drive and the Oakfield roundabout, I request that the Roads Department put a pedestrian crossing in place as part of the road upgrading”.

Director of Services Mr Kilfeather advised the meeting that prior to commencement of resurfacing works at this location, it is proposed to schedule a consultation meeting with local stakeholders to discuss the provision of an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing.  The consultation meeting will inform the Roads Department as to the most appropriate location for such a crossing point.

 

28.  LACK OF AUTISM UNITS IN SLIGO SCHOOLS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Education and Skills highlighting the concerns of parents regarding the lack of autism units in schools in Sligo”.

Councillor Healy also furnished the Members with details of a meeting that the family group was holding in Sligo later that evening.

 

29.  NOTIFICATION OF COMMENCMENT OF WORKS BY IRISH WATER:

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

AND AGREED

“That Irish Water notify all residents in an area of all works that are to take place, at a reasonable time before commencement. Can Irish Water staff carrying out these works on the ground also be updated with information about these works so they can be in a position to inform residents when asked”.

The Director of Services reported the details of a reply he had received from Irish Water in connection with this motion.

Following further points being raised by Members, it appeared that the difficulties were arising where only some residents were receiving the mail drop organised by Irish Water through An Post.

Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that the points raised would be relayed to Irish Water for their information and attention.

 

30.  PLANNING FRAMEWORK – ONE-OFF RURAL HOUSES:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, the following motion submitted by Councillor Queenan was deferred to the April Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“Ask the Director of Services to outline what impact will the Government’s Planning Framework have on one off rural houses in   County Sligo”.

 

31.  CONSTRUCTION/ PURCHASE OF EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION HOUSES:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, the following motion submitted by Councillor O’Boyle was deferred to the April Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“Can Sligo County Council buy or build 2 family sized emergency accommodation houses in a suitable location”.

 

32.  PROVISION OF A CARDIAC CATHETERISATION

LABORATORY AT SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

“Recognising that no Cath Labs are located anywhere in this state north of the Galway-Dublin line, this Council calls on the Minister for Health to initiate the provision of a Cardiac Catheterisation Lab at Sligo University Hospital to cover the North-West region”.

It was further agreed that a copy of the letter would be sent to Deputy Tony McLoughlin.

 

33.  LIST OF GRANTS PROVIDED UNDER THE COMMUNITY, VOLUNTARY AND ARTS SECTION:.

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council for the full list of grants provided under Community, Voluntary and Arts section and their deadlines either in the year gone by or this year if known, and if there is a way of streamlining these grants to reduce duplication of paperwork and awards of funding”.

Ms D Clarke Director of Services advised the meeting that the report was not finalised due to closure of offices during Storm Emma. Details of the Grant Schemes available from the Community and Economic Development Section for 2018 were reported as follows:

Community and Voluntary Grants scheme

  • Closing date 4pm Friday 9th of March 2018
  • Community Events €25,000  
  • Community & Estate Enhancement €20,000
  • Heritage €15,000
  • Tidy Towns €35,000
  • Burial Ground Committees €25,000

 

Contribution to the Arts Grant Scheme 2018

  • Arts Venues and Organisations
  • Arts Festivals and Events
  • The allocation is 272,000 for 2018
  • Closing dates for both schemes:  4pm Friday 5th January 2018

 

Failte Ireland funded Regional Festivals and Participative Events 2018

  • €23,500
  • Closing date 4.00pm on Friday, 16th March, 2018.

 

New Grant schemes available in 2017

  • Community Facilities Grants  €64,000
  • No confirmation of 2018 yet
  • €64,000
  • No confirmation of 2018 yet

RAPID

  • €64,000
  • No confirmation of 2018 yet

 

CATHAOIRLEACH OF SEANAD – SENATOR DENIS O’DONOVAN:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed Cathaoirleach of the Seanad Senator O’Donovan to the public gallery and thanked him for attending as this was a ‘first’ for the Council.

 

34.  REPAIRS TO FOOTPATH ON SOUTHERN SIDE OF R292 (BETWEEN SECOND SEA ROAD AND WOODVILLE ROAD):

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, as a matter of urgency, assess and repair the footpath on southern side of the R292 between the second Sea Road and Woodville Road”.

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that the Roads Section will assess the footpath in question and report accordingly on any works required. The carrying out of any works will be subject to available funding and resources.

 

35.  UPDATE ON PROVISION OF SEWERAGE SYSTEM ON R292 AT CUMMEEN AND RATHONORAGH:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council provide an update on the provision of sewerage system on R292 at Cummeen and Rathonoragh”.

Director of Services T Kilfeather reported that ‘Irish Water had advised that they had no plans to extend the sewerage system to the Rathanoragh and Cummeen area of Sligo. The Capital Investment Programme is a targeted set of projects and programmes which deliver improvements in compliance, business efficiencies and customer service.

The connection of existing houses (which are currently served privately, including private septic tanks) could be progressed through the Connection and Developer Services process and potentially in conjunction with a Department of Environment Group Wastewater scheme. Further information on how to apply for a new connection is available on the Irish Water website”.

 

36.  REQUEST FOR PROVISION OF DEFIBRILLATOR MACHINES IN ALL IRISH SCHOOLS:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to support the call to get life-saving defibrillator machines placed in all Irish schools.

If passed, this new law will “require the management boards of schools to install and maintain defibrillators so that they are available for public use” — in a similar fashion to the rules around first aid kits, for example.

The law if passed would require school officials to provide training and be responsible for the maintenance of the defibrillators. Up to 5,000 people die of sudden cardiac arrest every year”.

 

37.  LOCATION FOR RELOCATION OF CIVIL SERVICE OFFICES:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND AGREED

“The Civil Service Mobility Scheme reveals huge demand for relocation outside Dublin.  This Council calls on the Government to consider Tubbercurry again as a suitable location for a Government Department in the interest of the local economy”.

 

38.  RELOCATION OF CIVIL SERVANTS UNDER ‘PROJECT IRELAND 2040’:

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

AND AGREED

“Now that Sligo is designated a Key Regional Centre in Project Ireland 2040, Sligo County Council calls on Government to relocate more Civil Servants to Key Regional Centres like Sligo.

More than 700 applications requesting to move out of Dublin have been lodged since November 2017.  ”

 

39.  COASTAL PROTECTION MEASURES FOR ROAD L-2401-0 AT EASKEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to put in place coastal protection for road L 2401-0 at Easkey before the sea takes the road away”.

The Director of Services confirmed that a report would be issued to the Members in the coming days.

 

40.  REPORT ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS (FOR GENERAL OPERATIVES) IN SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide a report on the recruitment process

  1. How many applied to be put on the panel?
  2. How many were offered the aptitude test?
  3. How many sat the aptitude test?
  4. How many will be added to the Panel?
  5. How many will retire in 2018? and
  6. How many is envisaged to be offered employment?”

In reply to the motion, Mr. J Moran SEO reported as follows:

  1. How many applied to be put on the panel - 391
  2. How many were offered the aptitude test - 391
  3. How may sat the aptitude test - 308
  4. How many will be added to the panel – this has not been finalised but is likely to be  in the region of 30
  5.  (a)  How many will retire in 2018 - No General Operative to retire in 2018

 (b) How many is envisaged to be offered employment? – Threeposts to be offered initially – after that, positions will be offered as they become available. 

The Executive noted the concerns raised by Members in relation to the levels of outdoor staff in each of the areas.

 

41.  ROLE OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AS A REGIONAL CENTRE IN ‘PROJECT IRELAND 2040’:

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor T Healy

AND AGREED

“Recognising that Sligo has been identified as a Regional Centre for growth in the recently announced Project Ireland 2040 and recognising that many Sligo-based statutory and non-statutory agencies made submissions to the National Framework Plan at its draft stage seeking such a designation; to ask what the role of this Council is in furthering this designated status and further to consider establishing a working committee or framework of all significant stakeholders. That the Chief Executive report back for the April Monthly Meeting”.

A discussion followed on the designation under ‘Project Ireland 2040’ and the possible implications for the county and the region. The Chief Executive advised the meeting that Sligo County Council would have a major contribution to make in conjunction with other key stake-holders. The Cathaoirleach commended the Northern and Western Regional Assembly for their active involvement in the consultation process for the Plan.

 

42.  DRAINAGE ON ROADS R290 AND R287:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to make some of the Drainage work funding in 2018 available to address the ongoing concern to motorists and residents that live and use the R290 from Collooney to the Leitrim Border and also the R287 from Aughamore to Correagh crossroads”.

Director of Services Mr Kilfeather advised the Members that Sligo County Council is in the process of costing some of this work and hope to progress it within 2018 subject to sufficient funding being available.

 

43.  REGIONAL VETERINARY LABORATORY AT DUNALLY, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed T.D. to clarify the position on the future of the Regional Veterinary laboratory at Doonally which is the subject of much concern among the farming community”.

 

44.  ACUTE SHORTAGE OF TEACHERS IN SCHOOLS:

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

AND AGREED

“  Sligo County Council calls on the Department of Education for urgent action to address the serious shortage of Teachers in our schools.  Shortages are most acute in key subjects such as Irish, European Languages, Home Economics and Maths”.

 

45.  1916 CENTENARY COMMEMORATION MEDALS FOR FIRE SERVICES PERSONNEL:

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

AND AGREED

“Noting the failure of the State to award 1916 centenary commemorative medals to members of the fire service, this Council asks the Irish Association of Local Government (IALG) to: (a) draft proposals for the for provision of such medals and the presentation of such medals to members of the fire service who served in the centenary year (2016) in each local authority area in the state;  (b) request each local authority to contribute the necessary funding to cover the costs of the commemorative medals;  (c) request the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government to assist the local authorities and to make a financial contribution towards the costs.”

 

46.  RAMPS IN ENNISCRONE AND COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, the following motion was deferred to the April Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“Ask the Director of Services to give updates

a)      will the markings be completed to indicate ramps on Main Street, Enniscrone

and

b)      regarding commercial activity on Main Street, Enniscrone opposite the Fire Station”.

 

In the interim, the Director of Services advised the meeting that in relation to point b) of the motion, correspondence had issued in December in relation to this matter. The Council will follow up and consider what action can be taken in relation to this matter.

 

47.  REFURBISHMENT WORKS ON O’CONNELL STREET, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with a report indicating (a) when work will commence on the refurbishment of O’Connell Street (b) when the refurbishment work is expected to be completed (c) the outcome of consultations with the O’Connell street traders (d) the estimated total cost of the refurbishment project.” 

The meeting was informed by Mr. Kilfeather of the following details:

  1. The O’Connell Street Project is currently at design stage. The tender process to select a contractor for the project has commenced. It is envisaged that works on the street will commence in quarter two of 2018.
  2. It is envisaged that the project will be completed in quarter 3 of 2019.
  3. Sligo County Council is committed to meeting with all Business Owners/Occupiers in connection with the Project, to outline the proposals, to define the programme for completion and to cement a basis for the delivery of the scheme to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. A date for the meeting will be issued when the design of the Project has been progressed and a clear picture of the Project can be presented.
  4. As the final design of the scheme has not been completed it is difficult to provide an estimated cost at this stage.

In reply to a query from Councillor MacSharry, the Director of Services confirmed that the Council’s preference would be to maintain one lane of traffic through the street during the works.

 

48.  VACANT SITES REGISTER:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Chief Executive provides the Council with an up to date report on the Vacant Sites Register.”

Ms. D. Clarke informed the Meeting that the Vacant Sites Register for Sligo County Council was established on 1st January 2017 in accordance with the requirements of the Urban Regeneration and Housing Act.  Prior to entering a site on the register, the Planning Authority is required to establish that the sites are suitable for the provision of housing and have been vacant or idle for the preceding 12 months.

Following the necessary site surveys and assessment, the Planning Authority has identified sites that could qualify as ‘vacant’. In the past month, the owners of 19 sites have been notified of the proposed entry on the Vacant Sites Register. Further notices will be issued throughout the year.

The site owners have a period of 4 weeks in which to make a written submission regarding the proposed entry. Following this 4 week period the submissions (if any) will be considered by the Planning Authority and a decision will be made to enter the site on the register or not. Any such decision may be the subject of an appeal to An Bord Pleanála.

The Senior Executive Planner clarified further queries raised by the Members.

 

49.  REPAIRS TO ROAD FROM KEASH TO LOUGH NA LEIBE:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council carry out repair works on road from Keash through the townland of Treanmore to Lough na Leibe, and if extra funding becomes available that it be given priority”.

The Director of Services advised the meeting that Sligo County Council will carry out pothole repairs on this section of road in the next two weeks and will include this road in the resurfacing programme if extra funding becomes available.

 

50.  SLIGO TO ENNISKILLEN GREENWAY:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council would support the Sligo to Enniskillen Greenway in conjunction with all other relevant Local Authorities and engage with the relevant Government Departments in relation to securing funding"  .

Following a report by Ms. Clarke outlining the history and current progress on this proposal, a discussion followed with the Members and Executive noting the benefits of the proposal for the area.

 

51.  DRAINAGE ON KNOCKNAREA AND SURROUNDING AREAS:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council Engineering staff would engage with all relevant land owners to clear the old storm drains on Knocknarea and surrounding areas to address the serious flooding issues at Drinaghan, Scarden, Breeogue, Ransboro and other affected areas in Strandhill".

The Members were provided with details regarding difficulties encountered following a higher cumulative rainfall than normal.

Mr. Kilfeather Director of Services confirmed that the Council’s Engineering staff were willing to meet with landowners and to take on board any recommendations/proposals for improvements to the natural drainage systems in the area.  Funding would have to be sought for any such improvement works.

 

52.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT OLD CARTRON/

CARTRON HILL:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council Engineering staff would address the serious problems at the pedestrian crossing at Cartron Hill in consultation with the residents of Old Cartron in the interests of Health and Safety"  .

The Director of Services advised the meeting that, following up on previous consultations with residents of Old Cartron during 2017, improvement works are scheduled to be carried out in the immediate vicinity of the crossing point in the current year.  These works will comprise improvements to road markings and signage together with a narrowing of the carriageway width at the pedestrian crossing point.

 

53.  SURVEY OF WALL ON OLDROCK BRIDGE (ROAD R296):

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

AND AGREED

“That a survey of the structural soundness of the parapet wall of Oldrock Bridge on Regional Road 296 is carried out to assess what works might be required to make it safe, as a number of gaps are appearing in it, also the capping is damaged”.

The Director of Services reported that the bridge would be inspected and any urgent repairs identified carried out.

 

55.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF ‘BEACH VIEW PARK’, STRANDHILL:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor S. Maguire, was deferred to the Agenda of the April Ordinary Meeting:

“Sligo County Council will begin the process of taking in charge of Beach view park in Strandhill”.

 

56.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael and Paula Loughlin of Kilross, Ballygawley on the death of their son, Jimmy.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gabriel Gilmartin of Grange on the death of his mother, Una.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ann O’Brien of Mount Edward, Grange on the death of her mother, Molly Gallagher.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Coleman of Woodlawns, Enniscrone on the death of her husband, Anthony.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Philomena Keighron of Jinks’ Avenue on the death of her partner, Ronnie Gunning.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret O’Brien of Meadowvale on the death of her husband, Eamon.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the Crawley Family of Jinks’ Avenue on the death of their mother, Bridie.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to James Walsh of Ballymote Road, Tubbercurry on the death of his mother, Bridie.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Pat McCormack (former staff member Ballymote area) on the death of his father, Luke.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Mannion of Jinks’ Avenue on the death of her mother, Bridie Crawley.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tomás Breheny of Kevinsfort on the death of his father, Tommy.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tish Murray and the Murray family of Calterane, Gurteen on the death of her brother-in-law, Chris.

 

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

 

57.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Sligo-Leitrim Under 15 Soccer Team on winning the Under 15 ‘Subway’ Final”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“To hold a Civic Reception for the former Sligo Yeats Society to honour them for their outstanding work over the years”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Dearbhla Walsh of Ballymote Road, Tubbercurry on the award of an I.F.T.A. (Irish Film and Television Awards) for ‘Best Director’ in Dublin recently”.

 

58.  CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry

AND AGREED

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

 

59.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the summary of proceedings of Conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5) (f) of the Local Government Act, 2001”.

 

60.  CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED:

The items of correspondence which had been received were noted by the Members.

 

61.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

Councillor Clarke enquired if any reply had been received from Dr. Fergal Hickey in Sligo University Hospital.  The Meetings Administrator confirmed that, to date, no reply had been received.

 

62.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Referring to the earlier discussion in relation to agenda item 7, and the establishment of a committee for the Contributions to the Arts Grants Scheme 2018, it was further agreed that the following Members would be appointed to the Committee – Councillor Keaney, Councillor O’Grady, Councillor Gormley, Councillor MacManus together with the Cathaoirleach, Councillor Kilgannon.

 

END OF MEETING:

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

 

Download Minutes of the March Ordinary Meeting - 5th March 2018 (PDF) - 269 kbs

 

 


Meeting Date 05/03/2018