Minutes 2018

Minutes of April Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 9th April, 2018 at 10am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

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

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Mr. John Reilly, Head of Enterprise
  • Mr. Bartley Gavin, A/Director of Services
  • Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
  • Ms. Mary Dunleavy, Financial Accountant
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Karen McMahon, I.S. Technical Support Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

  • Cathaoirleach, Councillor S. Kilgannon, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor Lundy.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF S.P.C. 1 (HOUSING AND CORPORATE SERVICES) HELD ON 4TH DECEMBER, 2017:

Proposed by Councillor K. Henry
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of S.P.C. 1 (Housing and Corporate Services) Meeting held on 4th December, 2017”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 5TH DECEMBER, 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To note minutes of Sligo County Council Audit Committee meeting held on 5th December, 2017”.

 

3.  MINUTES OF SLIGO MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 22ND JANUARY, 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Sligo Municipal District Meeting held on 22nd January, 2018”.

 

4.  MINUTES OF SLIGO MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 19TH FEBRUARY, 2018 (RE. SCHEDULE OF MUNICIPAL WORKS 2018):

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Sligo Municipal District Meeting held on 19th February 2018 to approve the Schedule of Municipal District Works 2018 – including Roads, Transportation and Infrastructure”.

 

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

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

AND AGREED

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

 

6.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF DEVELOPMENT KNOWN AS ‘ROCKFIELD MANOR’ IN COOLANEY, CO. SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

7.  SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S AUDIT COMMITTEE CHARTER:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Audit Committee Charter prepared in accordance with S.I. 244, Audit Committee Regulations 2014”.

 

8.  SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S AUDIT COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Audit Committee Annual Report 2017, prepared under Regulation 15 of the Local Government (Audit Committee) Regulations, 2014.”

 

9.  SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S AUDIT COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Audit Committee Work Programme 2018”.

 

10.  ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 2017:

The Chief Executive and Head of Finance presented details to the Members under the following headings:

  • Annual revenue surplus/deficit for the period 2013-2017,
  • 2017 outturns,
  • Innovations,
  • Revenue collection 2013-2017 and
  • Financial management.

The Chief Executive advised Members that the Council has delivered a revenue surplus of €2.4m for 2017.  He added that this achievement was as a result of continued strong financial performance, disciplined budgetary control, and implementation of efficiencies, reduction in cost base and the adoption of prudent budgets.  It is the third consecutive year in which the Council has produced a Revenue surplus amounting to a cumulative €5.2m for period 2015 – 2017.  The effect of the strong performance has meant a reduction of the Council’s accumulated Revenue deficit from a high of €26.6m in 2014 to €21.4m by 31st December 2017.   

Further issues raised by the Members were clarified by the Executive. The Cathaoirleach complimented the Chief Executive, Head of Finance, senior management and staff, noting that it was a remarkable achievement to deliver a surplus in successive years at a time when staff resources were seriously depleted.

He noted that the general public and elected members were also were also making huge sacrifices on an ongoing basis.

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

AND AGREED

“To note Annual Financial Statement for the year ended 31st December, 2017”.

 

11.  AUTHORISATION OF OVER EXPENDITURE REPORT IN 2017 ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED,

with Councillor Bree dissenting:

“To authorise over expenditure of €4,203,856 reported in the 2017 Annual Financial Statement in accordance with section 104 (7) of the Local Government Act 2001.”

 

12.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2018:

Under this heading, Councillor MacManus referred to Item 5 of the report (Operation/progress of the Local Community and Development Committee).  In particular, clarification was sought as to the lead Agency driving the ‘County Sligo Tourism Strategy 2018-2023’.  The Chief Executive confirmed that it would be Sligo Tourism in conjunction with Sligo County Council.

The Members agreed to note the Monthly Management Report for February 2018.

Councillor MacManus referred to an issue that had arisen in the Sligo town area in relation to the siting of the “Breastcheck” mobile unit.  It was agreed that this matter would be discussed under Item 62 – Any other business.

 

13.  ROADS FUNDING SPENDING IN EACH ENGINEERING AREA FOR 2016 AND 2017:

The following motion had been listed on the Agenda by Councillor K. Henry.

 “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)”.

Councillor Henry thanked Mr. Kilfeather for furnishing the details to the Members as requested.

 

14.  APPLICATIONS FOR HOUSING GRANTS FOR OLDER PEOPLE:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Councillor M. Clarke indicated that he wished to defer the following item to the May Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

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

 

15.  COUNCIL LOAN SCHEME AND AFFORDABLE HOME SCHEME:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Councillor C. MacManus requested that the following item would be deferred to the May Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“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.”

 

16.  ADVANCEMENT OF SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT PROJECTS:

Councillor Casserly requested that the following motion would be deferred to the Ordinary Meeting in May.  This was agreed by the Members:

“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?”

 

19.  EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION FOR FAMILIES IN SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor C. MacManus

AND AGREED

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

Mr. Murphy presented a report setting out the current process in place in Sligo County Council for assisting when the need for emergency accommodation arises.

Councillor O’Boyle stated that there is no family sized accommodation available at present.  He noted that where hostel accommodation is provided, it may be in a location where the family would require transportation, and he asked that this issue be given further consideration.

 

20.  RAMPS ON MAIN STREET, ENNISCRONE

AND

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY ON MAIN STREET, ENNISCRONE:

Councillor Queenan requested that this matter would be deferred to the Ordinary Meeting Agenda in May.  The Cathaoirleach agreed to the request.

“Ask the Director of Services to give updates

  1. will the markings be completed to indicate ramps on Main Street, Enniscrone and
  2. regarding commercial activity on Main Street, Enniscrone opposite the Fire Station”.

 

21.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF BEACH VIEW PARK, STRANDHILL:

The following notice of motion, at the request of Councillor Maguire and the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, was deferred to the May Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

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

 

22.  REMOVAL OF LITTER FROM ROADSIDES:

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

AND AGREED

“This time of year in particular rubbish littering our roadsides becomes more visible. This is not a new problem but one that continually reoccurs and needs to be addressed. Is it possible to organise teams to remove litter from the roadsides or assist communities who are willing to organise themselves to do the work. In addition this council will apply for funding to implement anti dumping initiatives at known black spots to stamp out illegal dumping.”

Mr Kilfeather presented a report outlining the various initiatives delivered by the Council in conjunction with community and local Tidy Towns groups in an effort to address this ongoing, major problem.

 

23.  REQUEST FOR CONTINUATION OF FOOTPATH FROM THE RUGBY CLUB TO ROUNDABOUT IN STRANDHILL:

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

AND AGREED

“Given the large volume of traffic and that the road narrows considerably this Council will undertake a survey to establish the possibility of continuing the footpath from the Rugby Club in Strandhill to the roundabout under the minor accident scheme or another grant to facilitate the large amount of pedestrians including school children who use this road on a daily basis.”

Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather that, subject to resources, the Council’s Roads Department would conduct surveys at the location over the coming months in order to ascertain the extent of works required.  He advised that there was no dedicated funding stream for footpath installation works.

In reply to Councillor Maguire’s enquiry regarding a previous survey she had sought in the area, the Director of Services concurred that it would be appropriate to combine both surveys.  Mr. Kilfeather said he would revert to the Elected Members with details of progress on the initial survey.

 

24.  REQUEST TO COMMISSION YEATS BENCHES FOR SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council explore the possibility of purchasing/having commissioned a Yeats bench/benches around key locations in Sligo much like the Chopin benches in Warsaw. The benches are made from cast iron and polished stone. The sound system is embedded in the benches that will bring Yeats poetry closer – all you have to do is to press a button and make the bench play a selected poem”.  

Ms. Clarke reported in relation to the proposal and concluded that the example given had been referred to the Council’s Consultants, Building Design Partnership, for consideration in the context of the ‘Public Realm Plan’ to be prepared in 2018.

In noting the contents of the report, Councillor Casserly asked that consideration would also be given to their inclusion in the O’Connell Street refurbishment plans.

 

25.  PUBLIC LIGHTING IN MULLAGHMORE:

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

AND AGREED

“To request that more public lighting be fitted at Upper Mullaghmore on the Hill Road. 

There are about 45 houses on that road (3/4 are lived in full time).  There are 16 electricity poles on the road which is over half a mile long.  There are only 5 lights on these 16 poles.  Would it be possible to have more lights fitted on the existing poles as it's very dark there especially in the winter”.

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Roads Department would commission a review of the public lighting along the roadway in question.  The meeting was further advised that there is no dedicated funding stream for public lighting installation works.

In supporting the motion, the Cathaoirleach indicated that even a small number of additional lights would be beneficial.

 

26.  UPGRADING OF ‘TOP ROAD’ IN STRANDHILL:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Roads Department are there any future plans to enhance and upgrade the ‘Top Road’ in Strandhill Village, a part of the R292.  Lack of continuous footpath on the eastern side of the road, continual vehicular speeding and issues about parking on the road due to new developments are amongst a number of concerns to the local community in the area.”

The Meeting was informed by the Director of Services that the Roads Department personnel were undertaking a review of an earlier design proposal for the Top Road in Strandhill. 

Following completion of that review, and subject to funding through the Development Contributions Scheme, the Roads Department would seek to implement aspects of that design in conjunction with ongoing adjacent housing developments.

The report was welcomed by the Proposer and Seconder.  They referred to issues raised in the past by former Councillor Sean MacManus at this location and looked forward to all these matters being resolved once the review had been completed.

 

27.  EROSION OF ROAD SURFACE OF ROAD L5508 AT CARRIGANS UPPER, BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to address the water running on the surface of the L5508 at Carrigans Upper, Ballymote as a matter of urgency as it is eroding the surface of the road”.

Mr. Kilfeather DOS reported that – “There is a problem with water discharging onto the road and road drainage in this area.  The alleviation of the problem will involve substantial drainage works.  There are no funds available at present to carry out the work but it will be considered for inclusion in a future Schedule of Municipal Works” Councillor Henry asked that consideration would be given to inclusion of this road in the Drainage Grant Scheme.

Councillor Gormley added her thanks to the staff in the Ballymote Area for urgent road works carried out in the area recently.

 

28.  CUSTOMERS AFFECTED BY LOUGH TALT BOIL WATER NOTICE:

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

AND AGREED

“To write to Irish Water asking them how they came up with the rationale for a 40% discount for business customers affected by the Lough Talt Boil Water Notice and ask for an increase as it does not meet the additional costs incurred”.

Mr. Kilfeather informed the Meeting of details received from Irish Water in response to the motion.

It was noted, from the report, that the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) had instructed Irish Water to begin applying tariff discounts for Water Quality Notices when all non-domestic customers were on the Irish Water billing system.

Councillor Gormley, in supporting the motion, emphasised the need to resolve this matter for the 13,000 consumers affected and urged the upgrading of the existing or construction of a new treatment plant for the area.

Councillor Henry also recorded his thanks to the business owners in the area who are carrying the additional costs themselves and not passing them on to their customer. 

 

29.  PROVISION OF A SECURITY SYSTEM AT RAUGHLY HARBOUR:

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“On behalf of Maugherow Community Development Company I wish to discuss the urgent request for assistance for some help towards costs of the Security System at Raughly Harbour.

Costs have continued to increase, especially in relation to electricity and ongoing maintenance of the security cameras, electricity and broadband.  Fishing and leisure boat owners pay a voluntary fee to the company on a yearly basis.”

Mr. Kilfeather outlined the limited resources available to Sligo County Council for the maintenance of the 14 piers and harbours in the county.  It was further noted that there is never any surplus balance remaining at year end, with the full allocation of €33,000 for 2018 was accounted for.  Further details of assistance given to the Raughly Harbour users by the Council were outlined and noted by the Members.

Members acknowledged the assistance given by the Council to date and suggested that the group should consider submitting an application for a Community Grant.  Regrettably, the deadline for 2018 has passed.  If submitted, their application would be considered once the next round of funding is available.

 

As items 30 and 31 on the Agenda had similar content, the Cathaoirleach indicated that he would deal with them together.

30.  COURT ABBEY CEMETERY:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council to carry out an assessment of the works needed and rough costing on Court Abbey Cemetery and that this be forwarded to the OPW and Department of Culture, Heritage and An Gaeltacht”.

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

“That this Council calls on the O.P.W. to take in charge the monument in Court Abbey Cemetery as it’s a designated National Monument and that the Council calls on Minister Kevin Boxer Moran Minister of State for the OPW to provide the necessary funding which he indicated would be made available when he visited the site on the 21st August 2017 to carry out a detailed assessment in order that conservation works can be carried out to this dangerous structure”.

Mr. Kilfeather provided the Members with a detailed report setting out the background of the efforts to date to secure funding for the works necessary at this location.  In summary, he indicated that owing to the scale of the building, it was likely that an initial investment of €20-€25,000 would be needed to prepare the conservation/engineering and archaeological assessments needed to make an application for National Monument consent and to allow for funding applications to be made for a phased programme of conservation works.

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to carry out an assessment of the works needed and rough costing on Court Abbey Cemetery and that this be forwarded to the OPW and Department of Culture, Heritage and An Gaeltacht”.

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the O.P.W. to take in charge the monument in Court Abbey Cemetery as it’s a designated National Monument and that the Council calls on Minister Kevin Boxer Moran Minister of State for the OPW to provide the necessary funding which he indicated would be made available when he visited the site on the 21st August 2017 to carry out a detailed assessment in order that conservation works can be carried out to this dangerous structure”.

 

17.  CONSTRUCTION OF BOUNDARY WALL AT WOODLANDS ESTATE, SLIGO:

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

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 from the Woodlands Estate who were attending the meeting and were in the Public Gallery.

Having set out the background to the situation at present, Councillor Healy asked if a report was available for the meeting. 

Mr. Gavin replied that, from a Housing perspective, a wall would provide protection if funding was made available.  However, if the motion was agreed, the Council would write to the Minister seeking funding for the entire works required.

The Chief Executive added that it was his understanding that consideration was currently being given to this matter, and further enquiries would be made to endeavour to progress the issue.

Following a query from the Cathaoirleach and other Members, Councillor Healy stated that his earlier comments had been for the purpose of enabling Councillor Casserly to follow up on discussions at the March meeting in relation to the issue.

A number of Members reiterated that they all wished for the matter to be resolved to the satisfaction of the Residents.  Following further discussions on the matter, the Chief Executive said the Council did not wish to put in place an interim step if this would make matters worse. 

The Cathaoirleach suggested, and it was agreed by the Members, that this matter would be deferred to the May Ordinary Meeting Agenda. 

Correspondence would be forwarded initially to Minister Moran and, if necessary, at a later stage to the Minister for Housing.

 

32.  REPORT ON COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on the Community Involvement Scheme”.

Mr. Kilfeather reported to the Meeting that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport circulated a letter (RW04/2018) on 19th February, 2018 stating that there is €10m countrywide for Community Involvement Schemes (CIS).  Each Local Authority had to apply directly to the Department for funds for CIS.  The CIS relate to public roads and the Community have to make contributions in the range of 15% - 30% towards the work.  Where the local communities contribution is monetary only – a minimum contributory rate of 15% will apply.  Where the local community contribution comprises of works only the minimum contribution rate will be 30% (If communities were doing works on public roads they would have to comply with all Health and Safety standards.  It is unlikely that many communities will have the necessary skills/training etc to enable them to carry out works on roads)

Sligo County Council has applied for 78 Schemes throughout the county with an estimated cost of €2,285,621.  We are awaiting an allocation from the Department.  When the allocation is notified schemes will be offered up to that amount to communities.  The local contribution has to be paid before a Scheme commences.

Members’ concerns in relation to the matter were acknowledged and noted.

 

33.  DELIVERY OF FIBRE BROADBAND:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the Irish State to nationalise EIR to ensure the delivery of fibre Broadband”.

Councillor Keaney asked that he would be noted as dissenting from the agreement on the resolution.

 

18.  ONE OFF RURAL HOUSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor P Taylor

AND AGREED

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

Ms. Clarke and Mr. Moylan replied to the motion with a detailed report.  Councillor Queenan, in thanking the Executive for their report, stated that he was concerned and would accordingly be monitoring developments under this heading.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned for lunch at 12.30 p.m. and resumed at 1.00 p.m.

34.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF GORT NA SÍ ESTATE, COOLANEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a progress report on the taking in charge of Gort Na Sí Estate, Coolaney”.

Ms. Clarke DOS presented a report outlining that Sligo County Council drew down the bond money on this development to carry out the remaining outstanding works namely the provision of a footbridge and other minor road works in the estate.  The Roads Section has designed the pedestrian bridge and are currently procuring a contractor to carry out the works.  When these works are complete, we will commence the process of taking in charge this estate.

Councillor Clarke noted that the content of the report was similar to one received by the Members in 2017 and sought a timescale for the works.

Further queries raised about the pedestrian bridge and speed limits in the Estate as a result of ‘Jake’s Law’ were responded to by Mr. Kilfeather.

 

35.  WORKS ON N17 FOR REDUCTION OF SPEED IN TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the T.I.I. to put measures in place to reduce speed on the N17 from North Connacht College via Circular Road to Ballina Road junction to reduce the risk of accidents for all road users, and those exiting from their premises”.

Sligo County Council would discuss this section of the N17 with the Regional Safety Inspector of the T.I.I. with a view to getting funding for a safety scheme which could be incorporated into the works proposed just to the north of the town in the 3rd quarter of 2018, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.

 

36.  COMMUNITY FACILITIES IN STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“To ask for a Progress Report relating to the full application of the Memorandum of Understanding (as per report dated 20/4/17 and presented to the members of Sligo Municipal Council on the 24/4/17) that will allow a funding application to proceed for a needed community facility including surfing and community centre, changing facilities and multi-purpose space on the Front in Strandhill Village”.

Councillor MacManus outlined the concerns of residents in the Strandhill area, Mr. Gavin advised the Members that resolving the current issue is largely outside of the control of the Council, and given the needs to maintain its activities, not easily resolved by the Maritime Company.  There are various discussions ongoing; the Council has indicated its willingness to assist where it can include procuring temporary accommodation for the users of the current building.  Essentially, however, it requires an agreement between the parties using the building and which Celtic will also have to be party to.

The Chief Executive advised the Meeting that he accepted fully what had been said.  There were a number of different parties and groups in this including Surf Clubs/Schools, Community Development Associations, the Maritime Company and Voya.  He had attended a meeting of the Development Association in previous days and had given a commitment to make his offices available to have discussions with any of those individuals or groups to address any issues that may arise.

Councillor MacManus asked that a report would be furnished to the Members outlining how it was being moved forward and the Chief Executive confirmed that an update on the project should be available for the June meeting.

 

37.  BRING BANK FACILITIES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask for a report outlining:

  1. The number (and location of bring banks throughout County Sligo;
  2. Identified areas that require bring banks;
  3. A timeline for provision of bring banks as identified in (b)”.

The Members were furnished with the following details by Mr. Kilfeather

  1. There are a total of 40 bottle bank facilities throughout the County. 
  2. It has been agreed to add an additional 2 new bottle bank sites in the County in 2018.  These will be located in the Maugheraboy area and Ballisodare.  It is envisaged to have these additional sites in place over the next number of weeks. 
  3. The timeline for provision of bring bank sites could be anything from 2 to 6 months and is dependent on a number of factors i.e. identification and agreement of a suitable location, is Planning required, tendering process for construction of facilities and the process involved with applying to the EPA for Certificate of Registration. 

A listing of the 40 bottle bank facilities throughout the county would be circulated to the Members following the Meeting.

 

38.  PROVISION OF LEGAL SERVICES TO SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive what action, if any, has been taken to implement the decision taken on the10th of June 2013, to invite tenders for the provision of legal services to the County Council.”

Mr. Gavin reported to the meeting that finalising the procurement of day to day legal services provided by solicitors is part of the Council’s 2018 Procurement Pipeline.  A competition was advertised at national level and frameworks were put in place in late 2016.  An internal working group was set up in 2017 whose initial role is to put the necessary contracts documents in place for such services.  It is intended to make use of the national frameworks, which break up the full range of services into a number of lots.

The working group is presently developing tender documents for a Property and Conveyancing Legal Services lot, with the intention of inviting tenders in Q2 2018.  Having the concluded this initial competition other competitions will be rolled out to encompass the full range of day to day legal services.

Councillor Bree thanked the Director of Services for his report.

 

39.  VALUE OF COMMERCIAL RATES COLLECTION IN 2017:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive the value of commercial rates not collected in 2018 due to premises being vacant.”

Councillor Bree clarified that the figures sought relate to 2017.

The Head of Finance noted that the details requested had been included in the Annual Financial Statement discussed at item 10 where details had been set out in table (Appendix 7, page 38 – Summary of major Revenue Collections for 2017). 

Following a discussion on matter, the Chief Executive confirmed that the Executive appreciated the issues raised by Councillor Bree.

In particular, Members noted with concern that some prime properties were owned by Banks and other Agencies owned properties and, when approached by possible tenants, indicated that the property was not available for rental or offered them at astronomical fees.

The Council should be in a position to get all commercial rates paid on an annual basis and then rebate for vacant periods.  The reality, however, was very different as it would take very significant staff resources from collecting rates.  Rate collection had increased from 59% in 2013 to 77% in 2017. 

It would require additional staff resources the Council did not have to bring owners of commercial properties to court to insist on recovering rates to subsequently repay them to owners of vacant properties.  While it was strictly and technically correct, it was important to maintain the collection rate currently being achieved.

Councillor Queenan said that in his capacity as a rate-payer, he wished to record the professionalism of the Council’s staff working with business people on the ground. 

 

40.  GOVERNMENT’S BREXIT LOAN SCHEME FOR IRISH BUSINESSES:

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to support and promote the recently launched €300 million Government Brexit Loan Scheme for Irish businesses.

The Scheme is open to eligible businesses with up to 499 employees with loans of up to €1.5 million available at a rate of 4% or less”.

The Head of Enterprise J Reilly presented a report:

The recently-announced loan scheme is a welcome additional tool in assisting businesses gear up for Brexit.  It is being rolled out by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) via Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank with immediate effect and AIB from 1 June next.  Under the scheme, loans of €25,000 to €1.5m per eligible enterprise are available at a maximum interest rate of 4%, over a repayment period of one to three years.  There will be a significant focus on assisting businesses in the food sector.

Key qualifying criteria are that businesses are directly impacted by Brexit through imports, exports or the combined total of both to the tune of at least 15% of their turnover or that they are similarly indirectly impacted through trading with other businesses that themselves are exposed to Brexit. 

Councillor Mulvey thanked Mr. Reilly for his report and further to the staff in the Sligo L.E.O. for all the assistance they are giving to companies in the area.

 

41.  REQUEST FOR A BAN ON FOX HUNTING AND HARE COURSING:

The Cathaoirleach agreed, at the request of Councillor O’Boyle, to defer the following item to the May Ordinary Meeting Agenda

“Sligo County Council calls for a ban on fox hunting and hare coursing”.

 

42.  INTRODUCTION OF A DEPOSIT REFUND SCHEME FOR PLASTICS:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on Minister Denis Naughten to introduce a deposit refund scheme to help with our worsening plastic waste crisis”.

The Meeting was advised by Mr. Kilfeather that the issue of plastic waste has received a lot of attention in recent months, and is already being considered by the Department on a national level.  Several different approaches are being looked at, including: the viability of a deposit/refund scheme; the possibility of levies/ incentives on certain single use items; and the promotion of compostable materials in both packaging & disposable cutlery.

Sligo County Council continues to support initiatives like the Tidy Towns ‘Keep Cup’ campaign, and will encourage businesses to consider using compostable alternatives to plastic.  

According to REPAK (which is an industry funded organisation aiming to facilitate and grow packaging recycling in Ireland), Ireland is 7th in Europe for the recycling of packaging waste.

Sligo County Council continues to pursue those who illegally litter or dispose of waste inappropriately and would welcome the introduction of a deposit refund scheme in an effort to address the problem of plastic waste in the Environment.

 

43.  MOORING FACILITIES AT INISHMURRAY ISLAND:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when his Department intends to provide mooring facilities at Inishmurray Island.”

Councillor Bree outlined the background to the motion where a situation has arisen where boat operators have been instructed by the Department that they can no longer bring visitors to the island. 

A discussion followed where the Cathaoirleach and several Members outlined the annoyance conveyed to them by experienced boat operators and locals affected by the ban imposed by the Department. 

It was agreed that the Minister should be contacted with the Council Members’ request that the Department to provide a suitable landing facility.

The Chief Executive identified two issues arising from the Departmental ban a) any temporary works that could be carried out and b) permanent works for landing at the island. 

The situation will be examined to establish if there is any way it can be progressed.

 

SITE FOR BREASTCHECK MOBILE UNIT IN SLIGO TOWN:

Further to this matter which had been raised under Item 12, the Cathaoirleach referred to the following motions submitted to him earlier:

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

“That Sligo County Council engage with Breastcheck (Western Unit) to discuss facilitating the locating of the Breastcheck mobile unit in the Sligo urban area”.

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

“That Sligo County Council as a matter of urgency calls on the Minister for Health, the National Screening Service and the H.S.E. to take all steps necessary to ensure that a site is provided in Sligo town for the BreastCheck mobile screening unit”.

Members expressed their annoyance at the situation which had arisen in Sligo town regarding the ‘Breastcheck’ Clinics.  Letters offering appointments had indicated that there was no site available in Sligo town.  No contact, however, had been made with the local authority to allow them facilitate the mobile unit.

The Chief Executive confirmed that several Members had contacted him over the weekend on the matter.  He advised that the Council would work with the Western Unit Manager of Breast-Check to find a resolution to the issue.

 

44.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Noel Gilligan of Rinnarogue, Bunninadden on the death of his wife, Kathleen.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary O’Connell of Clooneen, Gurteen on the death of her daughter, Nora Fallon.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Peadar Kivlehan of Belra, Lavagh on the death of his mother, Kathleen.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Lil Coyle and family of Cloontycarn, Cloonloo on the death of her brother, James Farrell.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Maura Murray of Keenaghan, Ballymote on the death of her sister, Carmel McDonagh.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Martin Gilligan and family of Carrowloughlin, Bunninadden on the death of his mother, Kathleen.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Enda Kivlehan and family of Kilmorgan, Ballymote on the death of his mother, Kathleen.

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Sean Canavan of Cloonameehan, Castlebaldwin on the death of his wife, Sadie.

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Matt McGowan of Tully Hill, Sligo on the death of his brother, Terry.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Gillen of Streedagh, Grange on the death of her husband, Roger.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Seamus Battle of Corkamore, Templeboy on the death of his sister, Aileen.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gay Boland of Main Street, Enniscrone on the death of his sister, Maura O’Dowd.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Anthony Coleman of Woodlawns Estate, Enniscrone on the death of his father, Anthony.

 

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

 

45.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Michael Mongan of Rosehill Estate, Sligo on winning the Senior Gold Medal at the All Ireland Schools’ Cross Country Championships”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Real Tubber Under 13 Girls’ Squad and their coaches Brian King and Jack Kelleher on winning the Holland Cup in the Netherlands”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Sligo Rugby Club of Strandhill on their incredible success recently achieved at all levels of the club in recent months and to wish them continued success. 

Also, to congratulate Therese Cosgrove and Anne O’Toole on the award of their international caps”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Lauren Cadden of Dromard, Co. Sligo on her fantastic achievements recently at the All Ireland Indoor National Track and Field events in Athlone and the setting of a new course record in the 200 metres, under 19”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Lauren Cadden of Dromard, Co. Sligo who won the National Juvenile Indoor Under 19 60 Metre final in Athlone on March 18th and followed that win up a week later by winning again the National Juvenile Indoor 200 meters final and set a new Championship record at 24.40”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mona McSharry of Moneygold, Grange on setting a new 50 metre national record at the Commonwealth Games at the weekend and the winning of four gold medals in total”.

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Aoife McDermott of Riverstown, Co. Sligo on her Irish Cap on the Senior Ladies Rugby Team”.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Coolaney United Under 18 Football Team on winning the Under 18 Shield Championship 2018”.

 

46.  CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor K. Henry

AND AGREED

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

 

47.  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”.

 

48.  CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED:

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

 

49.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

50.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Proposal from Corporate Policy Group

The Cathaoirleach drew the Members’ attention to a discussion which had taken place at the recent Corporate Policy Group (CPG).  Councillor Keaney had proposed that the Council explore ways of making the monthly meetings more efficient, with repeat motions one possible area for consideration.  It was also suggested that some motions tabled for the Council meeting that might be better suited to the Municipal meeting

Members outlined their opinions on the matters raised, including the number and length of presentations.

Councillor Henry requested that the forwarding of reports to Members in advance of the meetings would also be considered.  Detailed reports were sometimes furnished to Members or read out to them at the meeting.  This did not allow for consideration of their content by the Members on the day. 

The Cathaoirleach confirmed that these issues would be brought to the next meeting of the Procedures Committee.

 

Plebiscite re. name of Enniscrone

Councillor Queenan enquired whether the process in relation to the plebiscite was moving forward.  Ms. Clarke confirmed that the next meeting of the Placenames Committee was scheduled for 16th April.  Once discussed at that meeting, it was expected that a report on the Plebiscite would be listed on the May Ordinary Meeting Agenda.

 

Revised date of meeting for Committee set up to oversee and assess the distribution of community grants

The Cathaoirleach advised the Members that the meeting of this Committee originally scheduled for Friday, 13th April did not suit a number of the Members.  This had been re-scheduled for Thursday, 19th April.

 

The business of the Meeting concluded at 2.25 p.m.

 

 


Meeting Date 09/04/2018