Minutes 2018

Minutes of September Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 3rd September, 2018 at 10.00 am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Casserly,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Gormley,
  • Councillor Keaney,
  • Councillor Kilgannon,
  • Councillor Lundy,
  • Councillor MacManus,
  • Councillor MacSharry,
  • Councillor Maguire,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor Queenan.

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Margaret McConnell, A/Director of Services
  • Mr. Bartley Gavin, A/Director of Services
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Mr. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
  • Ms. Siobhán Ryan, Heritage Officer
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Pamela Andison, Administrative Officer
  • Ms. Mary Farrell, Assistant Staff Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

  • Cathaoirleach, Councillor M. Baker, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from

  • Councillor T. Healy,
  • Councillor K. Henry,
  • Councillor R. O’Grady,
  • Councillor P. Taylor.

 

ADJOURNMENT AS A MARK OF RESPECT TO THE BREE FAMILY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND UNANIMOUSLY AGREED

“That the Meeting would stand adjourned for a period of 15 minutes as a mark of respect to the late Seán Bree, brother of Councillor Declan Bree”.

The Chief Executive, on behalf of the staff and on his own behalf, wished to be associated with the expressions of sympathy to Councillor Bree and family. 

On the resumption of the Meeting at 10.20 a.m., Councillor Bree thanked the Council Members for their expressions of sympathy at the time of his brother’s Funeral and at the Meeting.  The Members were assured that their sympathies would also be conveyed to the other family members.

 

OPENING OF NEW HEALTH CENTRE IN BALLYMOTE:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that he had been notified on the evening of Friday, 31st August that the Official Opening of the Health Centre in Ballymote was taking place on the afternoon of the 3rd September.  Some Members would be attending and apologies were noted from Councillor O’Grady, Councillor Taylor and Councillor Henry.

Members felt this level of notice was unacceptable and that a letter should issue from the Council to the H.S.E. outlining the Members’ concerns.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF THE LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Meetings of the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee held on a) 13th December, 2017 and b) 15th February, 2018”.

 

2.  MINUTES OF S.P.C. 1 MEETING (HOUSING AND CORPORATE SERVICES) HELD ON 5TH FEBRUARY, 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Strategic Policy Committee 1 (Housing and Corporate Services) Meeting held on 5th February, 2018”.

 

3.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 21ST MAY, 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 21st May, 2018”.

 

4.  MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 18TH JUNE, 2018:

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo held on 18th June, 2018”.

 

5.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 2ND JULY, 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 2nd July, 2018”.

 

6.  PROVISION OF ASSISTANCE TO FOCUS HOUSING ASSOCIATION – 20 SPRINGHILL COURT, MAUGHERABOY:

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

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance in the form of the Capital Assistance Scheme to Focus Housing Association Company Limited by Guarantee in respect of Dwelling at No. 20 Springhill Court, Maugheraboy,Sligo”.

Enquiries were raised by Councillor MacSharry and Councillor Kilgannon in relation to the sale status of the property.  At the previous meeting, it had been listed as “Sale Agreed”.  However, it was now back on the market.  Clarification was given as to the Council’s role in relation to the provision of assistance to the Housing Association. 

A vote was then called which resulted as follows:

FOR:   Councillor Baker, Councillor Bree, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Gormley, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Lundy, Councillor Maguire, Councillor MacManus, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Boyle and Councillor Queenan (11)

AGAINST:  Councillor Kilgannon and Councillor MacSharry (2)

ABSENT:   Councillor Clarke, Councillor Healy, Councillor Henry, Councillor O’Grady and Councillor Taylor (5)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the motion carried.

 

7.  DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS – “SALMON COURT”, BALLISODARE AND “ROCKFIELD MANOR”, COOLANEY:

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

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 Numbers

Location and Terminal Points

 

L-76160-0 and L-76160-1 The roads serving development known as “Salmon Court”, Ballisodare, Co. Sligo
L-68020-0 and L-68020-1 The roads serving development known as “Rockfield Manor, Coolaney, Co. Sligo.

 

8.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 40 MCDONNELL DRIVE, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the dDisposal of property at 40 McDonnell Drive, Sligo to Ms. Anita McLoughlin and Mr. John Loftus”.

 

9.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF DEVELOPMENT KNOWN AS “LISSADELL PARK”, CARNEY:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

10.  LOCAL ADJUSTMENT FACTOR TO THE LOCAL PROPERTY TAX FOR THE PERIOD 1ST NOVEMBER, 2018 TO 31ST OCTOBER, 2019:

The Head of Finance outlined the background to this item on the Agenda and it was then

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

“That there be no variation in Local Property Tax for period 1st November, 2018 to 31st October, 2019”.

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that he had a further resolution to hand which read as follows:

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

“Recognising the financial burden that the property tax is imposing on families and further recognising the fact that the majority of citizens rejected the candidates and policies of the government parties in the last local elections;and conscious of the fact that the finance raised from the Property Tax has not been used to improve local services; this meeting of Sligo County Council declares its opposition to the imposition of the government’s property tax and resolves to reduce the Property Tax by 15%”.

The Cathaoirleach called a vote on this resolution which resulted as follows:

FOR:     Councillor Bree, Councillor MacManus and Councillor O’Boyle (3)

AGAINST:   Councillor Baker, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Gormley, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Kilgannon, Councillor Lundy, Councillor Maguire, Councillor MacSharry, Mulvey and Queenan (11)

ABSENT:  Councillor Healy, Councillor Henry, Councillor O'Grady and Councillor Taylor (4)

The following motion was then put before the Members

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

“That there be no variation in Local Property Tax for period 1st November, 2018 to 31st October, 2019”.

The resolution was then Agreed with three Members abstaining – Councillor Bree, Councillor MacManus and Councillor O’Boyle.

 

11.  URBAN REGENERATION AND DEVELOPMENT FUND (U.R.D.F.) AND RURAL REGENERATION AND DEVELOPMENT FUND (R.R.D.F.):

As Item 32 on the Agenda also related to this matter, the Cathaoirleach indicated that he would deal with the following notice of motion at this time:

To consider the following motion as submitted by Councillor C. MacManus:

“To ask what progress Sligo County Council has made in leading on application(s) under Category 1/A for both the Urban Regeneration & Development Fund and Rural Regeneration & Development Fund for which there is a combined allocation of €3Bn in the National Development Plan to 2027”.

Reports had been issued to the Members in relation to the U.R.D.F. and R.R.D.F. under the following headings:

  1. Purpose
  2. Funding
  3. Criteria for bids
  4. Urban areas eligible to apply and
  5. Examples of possible proposals.

Ms. Margaret McConnell A/DOS clarified issues raised by the Members and outlined details of the matching funds requirements.

The closing date had been set as 28th September, 2018.  This had been announced in July and work had commenced on compiling the details.  In relation to Greenways, there had been a separate funding announcement for these projects and Ms. McConnell indicated that would be dealt with under a separate agenda item.

These funds were due to operate by a rolling call and it was the understanding that, in June 2019, a further opportunity for submission of applications would arise.  This was the only future date indicated at present. A schedule of urban and rural projects currently under consideration for submission by the Council under current or future ‘calls’ for proposals was circulated

The Chief Executive thanked the Members for their positive comments; This is an important opportunity for Sligo located as it is on the periphery of Ireland and Europe.  It is critical that this part of Ireland did not fall further behind.  Sligo County Council is fortunate that it had projects on their books and it was necessary to get them over very difficult hurdles.  Examples were given of projects that were ready to go such as the Surf Centre in Strandhill, Coolaney Mountain Bike Trail, Stephen Street car park and O'Connell Street refurbishment.  Sligo County Council has plans to develop the projects to a certain point.  It is hoped that the call for proposals would allow the Council to add to that funding and finish those proposals to completion rather than do it in phases.  It is a good opportunity and it was the Council’s duty to make efforts to secure the funding for Sligo.

 

12.  DATE FOR SPECIAL MEETING TO CONSIDER THE NOMINATION OF A CANDIDATE FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION:

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

AND AGREED

“That a Special Meeting of Sligo County Council will be held on Wednesday, 12th September, 2018 at 10.00 a.m. to consider the nomination of a candidate for the Presidential Election”.

 

13.  ENNISCRONE PLEBISCITE:

At the request of Councillor Queenan, the Cathaoirleach agreed to defer consideration of this item until the October Meeting.

 

14.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORTS FOR JUNE AND JULY 2018:

In response to a query from Councillor Bree, the Chief Executive advised that a meeting with Trinity Investments Limited in July related to a potential collaboration with local authorities on social housing. Members were advised they would be informed of any proposals arising from these discussions.  

The Members then agreed to note the Monthly Management Reports for June and July 2018.

 

15.  PURCHASE OF PRIVATE HOUSING FOR ACCOMMODATION FOR HOMELESS PEOPLE:

At the request of Councillor Casserly, the following notice of motion was withdrawn:

“To call on the Minister for Housing to fund the purchase of suitable private housing in all counties for the purposes of reducing the ever increasing number of people who are homeless and in danger of becoming homeless.”

 

16.  & 57.  PURCHASE OF A TELESIS SECURITY PROPERTY MARKING MACHINE:

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting as Items 16 and 57 dealt with the same subject, he would take both at this time.

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

“That Sligo County Council purchase a 'Property Marking Machine ' for community group use to make property a less attractive target for thieves, making it easier to reunite owners with their property.”

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

“I ask Sligo County Council to give an update as to the purchase of  a Telesis Security Property Marking machine as demonstrated at a recent meeting of Sligo Joint Policing Committee”.

Mr. Moran reported that the County Sligo Joint Policing Committee received a presentation & demonstration at its meeting held on 6th April 2018 of a “Telesis Marking System” which is in operation in County Monaghan. The system works by engraving the Eircode of the property owner on to an item which provides traceability in the event of the item being stolen and recovered. It has been agreed that the Council will purchase a Telesis marking unit, and in conjunction with the Gardaí will make the unit available to Community or other Groups interested in organising a property marking event.  Having complied with Public Procurement requirements, an order has now been placed for the Unit and delivery is awaited.

 

17.  PROPERTY BESIDE THE FRIARY CHURCH ON HIGH STREET:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council engineering staff address the urgent Health and Safety issues posed by the imminent collapse of the property beside the Friary Church on High Street".

The Chief Executive said he wished to acknowledge the work carried out by Brían Flynn and his team in relation to this property.  A report had been prepared setting out the sequence of events in relation to this matter, with a Court hearing scheduled for Tuesday 4th September in an action taken under Section 3 of the Local

Government (Sanitary Services) Act, 1964:  requiring that works be carried out as would prevent the premises from being a dangerous structure. The Council had been conscious of complications with joint ownership with Receivers and Banks also involved.  Having engaged with all parties, the Council had agreed to purchase the property.  It was anticipated that the building would be demolished at the quietest time in High Street which was on Sunday morning.  This would necessitate closing off High Street for a period to facilitate the demolition. 

The members were advised of ongoing developments in relation to this complex issue. A survey had been undertaken of the adjoining property over the weekend.  It was noted that, in the process of making the building safe, the Council now own a site in the heart of the town.  The Council would give consideration as to how it would be redeveloped in the future.  In bringing the matter to a conclusion, there would be some disruption at the weekend but it was hoped to carry out the demolition in as short a timescale as possible.

Councillor Bree and Councillor Casserly welcomed the report and further complimented Brían Flynn and roads staff on resolving the matter.  Thanks were also extended to them on behalf of the residents, businesses in the area and Mass goers by Councillor MacSharry.

 

18.  DOMESTIC VIOLENCE BILL:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Councillor MacManus asked that the following item would be listed on the October meeting Agenda:

“That this Council welcomes the passing of the Domestic Violence Bill by the Seanad earlier this month and calls on the Government to take all the necessary steps to ensure that the protections and safeguards enshrined in this Act are available as soon as possible.

Further, recognising the vital frontline work and support services provided nationally and locally by agencies such as Women’s Aid, SafeIreland, Rape Crisis Centres and DVAS, this Council calls on the Government and the HSE to confirm that adequate resources and funding will be available as a matter of urgency. This Act will only mean something if the victims of domestic abuse and violence, both now and in the future, can use the new provisions to help ensure their safety.”

 

19.  UPDATE ON APPLICATION FOR WIFI4EU:

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

AND AGREED

“To receive an update on the Sligo County Council application for Local Authorities to introduce free Wi-Fi hotspots. The ‘WiFi4EU’ scheme will promote free Wi-Fi connectivity in public spaces – such as parks, squares, public buildings, libraries, health centres and museums”.

The Head of Finance advised the Meeting that, due to the number of applications received, the first call for applications had been deferred until the Autumn.

 

20.  “SICK OF PLASTIC” CAMPAIGN:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council indicates its support for the Friends of the Earth ‘Sick of Plastic’ campaign including the call for (a) the imposition of a levy on single-use plastic items, like take-away cups; and (b) the imposition of a ban on the use of micro-plastics in cosmetics and care products.”

 

21.  FINES ISSUED IN RELATION TO  A) LITTERING AND  B) DOG FOULING

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Councillor MacManus asked that the following item would be listed on the October meeting Agenda:

“To ask for a report outlining the number of fines issued and subsequent revenue raised in years 2015, 2016 and 2017 for (a) littering and (b) dog fouling.

Further, can the Council consider creating a strategy and\or awareness programme around the issue of dog fouling centred on community engagement, education and targeted enforcement actions.”

 

22.  ESTABLISHMENT OF ANNUAL NATIONAL “MAKE WAY DAY”:

The Cathaoirleach dealt with items 22 and 31 at this time as they both related to the national “Make Way Day”.

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

AND AGREED

“Recognising that people with disabilities have the same right to use and enjoy public spaces that we all share;  Acknowledging the obstacles which people with disabilities face in their daily lives, including badly parked vehicles and bicycles, billboards, over-grown hedges and other ill-placed hazards;  Understanding that most obstacles are caused by thoughtlessness and genuine lack of awareness.

This Council (1) supports the establishment of an annual national “Make Way Day” taking place on 26th Sept. in 2018, (b)   will write to an Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, TD, and to each individual Minister and Minister of State, calling on them to support, establish, fund and resource an annual national “Make Way Day” which would be localised in each region, and (c)  will annually support and promote a local #MakeWaySligo campaign as part of the wider “Make Way Day”.

 

23.  LOCATION OF STORAGE FACILITIES FOR SLIGO DRAMA CIRCLE AND EVERYMAN PRODUCTIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council co operate with Sligo Drama Circle and Everyman Productions in locating suitable storage facilities from vacant properties owned by the Council, for storing large theatrical sets, props, furniture and equipment associated with their activities as active amateur drama groups.”

Following the outlining of the background to this motion by Councillor Bree, Mr. Gavin reported that John O’ Hara, Sligo County Council met with the Drama Circle & Everyman Productions on Friday 22nd June. The meeting took place at the Market Yard premises currently occupied by the Drama Circle. The current arrangement of tight storage downstairs and small open plan practice area & WC upstairs is not adequate facilities for the activities. Discussions were had about the request for additional space for props and furniture. The relocation of these props and furniture would free up space for practice and performance. However the painting and decorating of such items by students is part of the activities promoted by the drama circle and thus any new space would need to be in the general area of the existing space.

Unfortunately there is no Council space unoccupied at present and which could meet the need. The Council will continue to cooperate with the drama circle as requested.

Councillor Bree thanked Mr. Gavin for his report and said he hoped that a property might become available for this purpose.

 

24.  UPDATE ON THE MEDICINAL CANNABIS BILL:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council writes to Minister Simon Harris and asks for an update on the medicinal cannabis bill”.

 

25.  BAN ON FUR FARMS: BAN ON FUR FARMS

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

“Sligo County Council writes to Minister Michael Creed and calls for a ban on fur farms”.

Following a discussion involving several Members present, the Cathaoirleach called a vote on the matter which resulted as follows:

FOR:   Councillor Bree, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Keaney, Councillor MacManus and Councillor O’Boyle (5)

AGAINST:  Councillor Baker, Councillor Kilgannon, Councillor Lundy, Councillor MacSharry and Councillor Queenan (5)

ABSTAINED:   Councillor Clarke (1)

ABSENT:  Councillor Gormley, Councillor Healy, Councillor Henry, Councillor Maguire, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Grady and Councillor Taylor (7)

As the vote was 5 for and 5 against, the Cathaoirleach used his casting vote and deemed the resolution LOST.

 

26.  UPDATE ON THE SLIGO TO DROMAHAIR GREENWAY INITIATIVE:

Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council executive provide members with an update on the Sligo to Dromahair Greenway initiative".

Ms. McConnell provided the Members with a detailed report setting out how the project was progressing out to date.

In conclusion, the report stated the Dept. Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) published a Strategy for the future development of National and Regional Greenways in July 2018, which informs future funding opportunities for Greenway projects in Ireland and the future direction of standards to be applied to all Greenway developments.

Applications from Local Authorities to the recently announced €53m Greenway Fund 2019-2021 is now open since 24 August 2018, closing on 30 November 2018.

It will be necessary now to identify and put in place the resources, both financial and manpower resources to further progress with the Greenway Development to be ready to avail of funding opportunities that have arisen.

 

As this item also related to Greenways, the Cathaoirleach indicated that he would take item 33 at this point of the meeting.

 

33.  APPLICATION FOR FUNDING FROM GREENWAY FUND:

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor M Casserly

AND AGREED

“To ask is it the intention of the Executive to assist or lead in any application(s) seeking funding from the €53M Greenway Fund available from 2019-2021?”

The Members were provided with a detailed report by Ms. McConnell which indicated that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) published a ‘Strategy for the future development of National and Regional Greenways’ in July 2018, which informs future funding opportunities for Greenway projects in Ireland and the future direction of standards to be applied to all Greenway developments. A €53M fund was announced in collaboration with the strategy.

A detailed set of criteria has been outlined in the strategy documentation which will require careful consideration. 

Future Greenways (funded under the Strategy) would be required to be:

  • Strategic
  • Scenic
  • Sustainable
  • Substantially segregated and shared use and
  • Offer lots to see and do.

The key criteria, the need for consultation and details of building on the economic potential were also set out in the report. It will be necessary to put in place the financial and manpower resources required to avail of funding opportunities that have arisen.

 

34.  RESTORATION OF ‘THE MERMAID’ MOSAIC IN GARAVOGUE RIVER:

At the request of Councillor Casserly, the following item was withdrawn from the Agenda:

“To request that 'The Mermaid' mosaic beside the bridge at the Garavogue River be cleaned and restored to its original design.”

 

36.  UPDATE ON PROVISION OF FIRE TENDERS TO THE COUNTY SLIGO FIRE SERVICE:

Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“To ask for an update on the provision of 2 no. fire tenders to the County Sligo Fire Service (1 no. for Sligo and 1 no. for Tubbercurry).”

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services, advised the Meeting that Sligo County Council Fire Services had written to the Department on 6th June outlining the age of the fleet and, specifically, the two appliances referred to above. Our oldest first line appliance is in Tubbercurry at 17 years old and our 2nd line appliance in Sligo Town is 16 years old.

A response was received on 12th June 2018 from the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in relation to our request to consideration to be given for funding for two number new appliances.

The response stated :

“The allocation of funding for new appliances in the current procurement programme has already been complete. Your submission will be considered in the context of future capital programmes and the availability of financial resource.”

It is important to note that there are other Fire Authorities around the country with much older fleets than ours and they are of a higher priority than Sligo.  Sligo Fire Service has made the case to the Department for replacement of our 2 oldest appliances and we “will be considered in the context of future capital programmes”.

Sligo Fire Service took delivery of a new Class B fire appliance and a Ford Ranger 4x4 crew cab vehicle in May of this year – both receiving capital funding from the Department”.

Councillor MacManus acknowledged the work of Sligo Fire Services and referred to their record of having the fastest response times in the country.  However, he expressed his disappointment at the content of the reply from the Department referred to in the report.

 

39.  REQUEST FOR THE CORRECTION OF AN ANOMALY IN INCOME TAX SYSTEM:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council request the Finance Minister,Mr. Paschal Donohoe, to correct the anomaly in our income tax system where a family where one person earns €50,000 can pay €4000 more tax than a family where two parents jointly earn €50,000”.

 

41.  CAPITATION GRANTS TO NATIONAL AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS:

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

AND AGREED

“This Council calls on the Department of Education to increase the Capitation grants to National and Secondary schools.  Commitments were given in the Programme for Government because the capitation grants have not increased in years.”

 

43.  RETENTION OF 9% V.A.T. RATE  FOR THE FOOD, TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY SECTOR:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Finance to retain the 9% VAT rate in the upcoming Budget for the Food, Tourism and Hospitality Sector which has helped create and retain jobs in the local and national economy."

 

45.  ROAD RESURFACING WORKS AT CARTRON POINT, SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council Engineering staff would undertake road resurfacing works along the bus corridor only at Cartron Point as soon as possible".

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that Roads Department personnel will assess the condition of the road over the coming months.  Should it be determined that some level of resurfacing works are necessary, same will be considered in the context of the Urban Area Roadworks Programme 2019.

 

46.  REFUSAL OF H.A.P. BY LANDLORDS AND ESTATE AGENTS:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the housing Minister to get a public inquiry in to why landlords and estate agents are refusing HAP this goes against the Equal Status Act”.

 

47.  ENQUIRY RE. HOSPITAL WAITING LISTS:

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

AND AGREED

“With an ever increasing number on hospital waiting lists up to nearly 1 million, how many of those are from Sligo?”

 

48.  FUNDING FOR PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS FOR ENNISCRONE VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services to include Enniscrone village for funding re. pedestrian crossings 2019 road works scheme”

“Several pedestrian crossings have been provided in Enniscrone in recent years.  However, subject to survey and identification of suitable locations and if funding is available through say Clár or Low Cost Accident Schemes consideration can be given to the provision of additional crossings” Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.

 

51.  PROPOSAL FOR A SCHEME FOR

MODERNISATION OF COUNCIL HOUSES:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to devise a scheme to enhance and modernise Council houses that are built over 25 years and to apply to the Department for funding for same”.

Mr. Gavin reported that, to be responsive to the demand for accommodation it is considered a priority that a commitment be given by the department to continue

  • Voids Funding
  • Ease the manner in which houses can be purchased and built by Councils directly and by approved housing bodies

 If the department were minded to introduce a new scheme as described in the motion, it could be achieved by extending the current Voids scheme. Such an extension would have substantial additional staffing requirements for Sligo County Council.

 

ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING:

The Meeting adjourned at 1.00 p.m. and resumed at 1.30 p.m.

 

53.  POTHOLE REPAIRS PRIOR TO WINTER 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to carry out a blitz on potholes before the winter sets in”.

Mr. Kilfeather confirmed to the Meeting that Sligo County Council is monitoring road conditions on an ongoing basis and carrying out any necessary repairs.

 

54.  REPORT ON PLANNED EXTENSION OF SLIGO MUNICIPAL CEMETERY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a report be provided on the planned extension of Sligo Municipal Cemetery, the report to include details of the number of plots currently available in the existing cemetery; the number of plots that will be provided in the new extension and when it is expected that the new extension will open.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported to the Meeting as follows:

Sligo County Council facilitates on average 125 burials in Sligo Cemetery annually.  Approximately 75% of these burials are accommodated in existing grave plots while the other 25% of burials require the purchase of new plots.  At this time there are approximately 63 No. new grave plots available at Sligo Cemetery.  When broken down between double and single plots this translates to circa 18 No. double plots and 27 No. single plots.

The proposed cemetery extension when fully completed will deliver up to 1800 traditional grave spaces together with circa 400 niches for cremated remains.  It is intended to develop the new cemetery in a number of phases.  Tender documents are currently being prepared for Phase 1 of the development.  It is anticipated that tender documents will be completed by end September 2018, at which point tenders will be invited for the phase 1 works. 

The Phase 1 works will comprise site boundary treatment, drainage works, construction of new access road, footpaths, turning areas and will deliver up to 280No.grave plots.  It is expected that Phase 1 works will commence during the last quarter of 2018.

 

55.  PROPOSALS FOR INSTALLATION OF C.C.T.V. IN THE GARAVOGUE VILLAS AREA:

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

AND AGREED

“That a report be provided indicating the proposals the Council has to install C.C.T.V. cameras in the Garavogue Villas area.”

Ms. McConnell advised the Meeting that the Community Based CCTV Scheme is intended to support local communities who wish to install and maintain CCTV security systems in their area, with the aim of increasing public safety and to deter illegal or anti-social behaviour. It is designed to provide financial assistance, to qualifying local organisations, towards meeting the capital costs associated with the establishment of local community CCTV systems. The maximum grant awardable by the Department of justice Equality and Law Reform, in any circumstances, is €40,000. Within this limit, grants of up to 60% of the total capital costs of the system may be awarded.

The Scheme is intended to support community-based organisations and, accordingly, applicant organisations could include:

  • Existing community-based not-for-profit organisations that are broadly representative of the community e.g. Area Partnerships, Community Development Projects, Family Resource Centres, the Local Authority, Community Enterprise, etc.; and
  • Community-based, not-for-profit, consortium of private and community interests under the aegis of an existing lead organisation.

Applications are to be submitted directly to the Department of Justice and Equality.

The role of the Local Authority is to:

  1. Administer the payments, the Department will prepay the local authorities the grant amount in advance of payment to the communities.
  2. Certify the civil works. The mechanical and electrical works will be certified by the local Gardaí.
  3. Act as Data Controller. Local authorities are already Data Controllers for existing Community CCTV. The guidance that will be issued with the programme have been checked against the new Data Protection Directives and Regulations.
  4. Promote the programme through the PPNs.
  5. Bring before the Joint policing committee

One Sligo project so far is with the Department for consideration from the Cranmore community.  It is being investigated if this application can be expanded to include the requirements of the Garavogue community.

In noting the contents of the report, Councillor Bree asked if the way forward was for the Residents’ Group to make a submission to the Cranmore Regeneration Office.  In due course, this might mean they could get funding for it.

Mr. Gavin undertook to follow up on this matter and ascertain if funding could be made available in this way.

 

ITEMS TO AGENDA OF SPECIAL MEETING – 12TH SEPTEMBER, 2018:

Due to the urgency of the matter relating to closure of Post Offices, the Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that he proposed listing the four items on the Agenda - 37, 38, 40 and 62 – on the Special Meeting Agenda of the 12th September, 2018.

Councillor Bree indicated that he would be in agreement to the deferral of his item (number 38) until the other Members would be present.

 

37.  CLOSURE OF POST OFFICES:

As submitted by Councillor M. Casserly

“This council:

  1. Is deeply concerned of the imminent threat of closure of up to 390 Post Offices throughout the country and the threat to the long-term future of the remaining 690 Post Offices.  
  2. Believing the decision as to whether a community has a Post Office or not, should not hinge on a Postmaster wishing to retire.  
  3. Recognises there is an alternative and superior solution to the Post Office issue available to An Post and to Government in the form of the Kiwi (Post) Bank model that was established in New Zealand in 2002, and now has 20% of the banking market and 25% of all banking customers in New Zealand.  It has been described as a phenomenal success having made over $7m profit in its third year of operation and nowadays posts annual profits of circa $100m.
  4. Supports the Dáil Private Members Motion of 11th November, 2016 –The Dáil Motion of the 11th November, 2016, passed by the Dáil – 158 Votes (no Amendments)

“Calls on the Government to:

  • Implement a new community banking service operated by An Post to be made available in all post offices throughout the country; this post community bank could be based on either the New Zealand Kiwibank model or the German Sparkassen model, both of which have been found to be valid models;”

Therefore, this Council calls on Government to,

  1. Enact ‘Private Members Dáil Motion of the 11th November, 2016’
  2. Postpone the closure of Post Offices while the Kiwi Post Bank model for the Irish Post Office network is developed.

The results of this Council motion to be promptly conveyed to the Minister for Communications, Climate action and Environment and Deputy Hildegarde Naughton, Chair of Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment”.

 

38.  CLOSURE OF POST OFFICES:

As submitted by Councillor D. Bree:

That this council:

  1. Deeply concerned with the imminent threat of closure of up to 390 Post Offices throughout the country and the threat to the long-term future of the remaining 690 Post Offices.  
  2. Believing the decision as to whether a community has a Post Office or not, should not hinge on a Postmaster wishing to retire.  
  3. Recognising there is an alternative and superior solution to the Post Office issue available to An Post and to Government in the form of the Kiwi (Post) Bank model that was established in New Zealand in 2002, and now has 20% of the banking market and 25% of all banking customers in New Zealand.
  4. Supports the Private Members Motion passed by the Dáil on the 11th Nov 2016 which “calls on the Government to: - implement a new community banking service operated by An Post to be made available in all post offices throughout the country; this post community bank could be based on either the New Zealand Kiwibank model or the German Sparkassen model, both of which have been found to be valid models;”

Therefore, this Council calls on Government to,

  1. Enact ‘Private Members Dáil Motion of the 11th November, 2016.’
  2. Postpone the closure of Post Offices while the Kiwi Post Bank model for the Irish Post Office network is developed. 

And further the contents of this motion be promptly conveyed to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment and to Deputy Hildegarde Naughton, Chair of Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment.”

 

40.  CLOSURE OF POST OFFICES:

As submitted by Councillor T. Healy:

“That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment and also the Minister for Rural and Community Development to intervene and prevent the closure of rural Post Offices in Sligo as these threatened closures would lead to the destruction of their communities.”

 

62.  CLOSURE OF POST OFFICES:

As submitted by Councillor P. Taylor and Councillor M. Gormley:

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to support the retention of Rural post offices in County Sligo with special reference to Gurteen Post Office”.

 

DEFERRAL OF REMAINING ITEMS TO OCTOBER AGENDA:

Due to the attendance of a number of the Elected Members at the opening of the Official Opening of the Health Centre in Ballymote, the Cathaoirleach agreed to defer the following items to the 1st October (Ordinary Meeting) Agenda.

 

27.  HEDGE CUTTING GRANT:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor K. Henry:

“Can I receive an update on a motion I previously proposed regarding consideration for a hedge cutting grant similar to that available in other local authorities. What view has been formed by the executive on the merits of this scheme.”

 

28.  EXTENSION OF PUBLIC LIGHTING ON BALLYMOTE ROAD (R294) IN TUBBERCURRY:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor M. Gormley:

“That the public lighting be extended on the Ballymote Road R294 out of Tubbercurry”.   

 

29.  FACILITATION OF HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL IN SLIGO:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, the following item as submitted by Councillor T. Healy, was deferred to the October Agenda:

“To call on Sligo County Council to have open discussions with waste disposal companies to facilitate hazardous waste disposal in Sligo to cover the two new Municipal areas Sligo-Drumcliff and Sligo-Strandhill”.

 

30.  REQUEST FOR UPGRADING OF NORTH SLIGO PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY SCHEME:

With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, the following item as submitted by Councillor T. Healy, was also deferred to the October Agenda:

“That Sligo County Council liaise with Irish Water to assess the feasibility of an upgrade for the north Sligo public water supply from the Gortnaleck and Lyle streams.”

 

35.  PROVISION OF ON-STREET SEATS OR BENCHES IN BALLYMOTE:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor K. Henry:

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide a number of on-street seats or benches on the streets of Ballymote.”

 

42.  PROVISION OF RECYCLING BINS AT TRIAL LOCATIONS IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor S. Maguire:

“Sligo County Council will seek an environmental awareness grant or alternative funding to secure recycling bins for the shorefront at Strandhill, Rosses Point and a number of trial locations to establish if they can be rolled out across the county.”

 

44.  VOIDS PROGRAMME FOR COUNCIL HOUSES:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor K. Henry:

“How many council houses are considered to be Void or eligible for the Voids programme within the county and in need of upgrade?

How much funding is estimated to be needed to bring these houses into use?

How much funding has been allocated in 2018 to the Council under the Voids Programme?”

 

49.  UPGRADING OF STRANDHILL WATER TREATMENT WORKS TO INCLUDE U.V. TREATMENT:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor S. Maguire:

“Sligo County Council will engage with and lobby Irish Water and the E.P.A. to upgrade the current water treatment works at Strandhill to include UV treatment.”

 

50.  UPDATE ON THE TAKING IN CHARGE OF ‘WOODSTREAM ESTATE’, COOLANEY:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor D. Mulvey:

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on the taking in charge of Woodstream estate Coolaney.”

 

52.  REQUEST FOR UPDATE RE. CORRIB GAS:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor S. Kilgannon:

“Now that Sligo is designated a Growth Centre under the National Planning Framework, this Council request an update on what are the possibilities of Corrib Gas being piped to Sligo”.

 

56.  FUNDING FOR STUDY ON COURT ABBEY CEMETERY:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor M. Gormley:

“Following on from Minister Boxer Moran’s visit to Court Abbey Cemetery on the 21st August, 2017 where he indicated his Department would provide funding to carry out a study on the dangerous monument in order that conservation works can be carried.  I am seeking the support of the council to call on Minister Boxer Moran to honour his commitment and provide the funding necessary”.

 

58.  PROPOSALS FOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON A SECTION OF R296 (FROM THE RAILWAY BRIDGE TO PAST THE  CEMETERY) IN BALLYMOTE:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor M. Gormley:

“The section of Regional Road 296 from the Railway bridge to past Ballymote Cemetery is in very poor condition and needs improvement works carried out. What plans have the Council to improve this section as it’s a danger to all road users both pedestrians and motorists?”

 

59.  AVAILABILITY OF HOUSING GRANTS:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor R. O’Grady:

“Update requested on what housing grants are available to the public presently”.

 

60.  BAN ON USE OF ‘ROUNDUP’ (GLYPHOSATE) AS A WEED KILLER IN PUBLIC AREAS:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor R. O’Grady:

“I call on Sligo County Council to ban the use of Roundup (Glyphosate) as a weed killer in all public areas in Co Sligo”.

 

61.  MEDICAL CARDS FOR PATIENTS WITH A CANCER DIAGNOSIS:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor R. O’Grady:

“That Sligo County Council, as a matter of urgency, write to the Minister for Health Simon Harris demanding that all patients given a diagnosis of cancer are furnished with medical cards without delay”.

 

63.  PROBLEMS WITH ROAD SURFACE ON R294 AT KNOCKNASHAMMER:

Notice of motion submitted by Councillor P. Taylor:

“To ask Sligo County Council to address the problems with the road surface at Knocknashammer on the R294”.

 

64.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

No matter was discussed under this heading.

 

65.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

No matter was discussed under this heading.

 

66.  CONFERENCE / TRAINING NOTIFICATIONS:

Clarification was given that an item on the listing for the Irish Planning Institute should have been listed as Training rather than a Conference.  This was noted by the Members.

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

AND AGREED

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

 

67.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES ATTENDED:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

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

 

68.  CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the items of correspondence received and posted on Extranet”.

 

69.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

Councillor O’Boyle requested an update in relation to the reception proposed for Dean and Jason Clancy and was informed by the Cathaoirleach that arrangements would be finalised shortly.

 

70.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

No matter was discussed under this heading.

  

END OF MEETING:

The business of the Meeting concluded at 2. 15 p.m.

 

 


Meeting Date 03/09/2018