Minutes 2018

Minutes of November Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 5th November, 2018


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • 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 Queenan,
  • Councillor Taylor.

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Mr. Bartley Gavin, A/Director of Services
  • Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
  • Mr. Joe Murphy Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Michael Carty, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Mr. Ray O’Grady, Executive Planner
  • Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Karen McMahon, I.S. Technical Support Officer
  • Ms. Mary Farrell, Assistant Staff Officer
  • Ms. Donna Gilmartin, Clerical Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH:

Leas-Cathaoirleach, Councillor Paul Taylor, presided at the commencement of the Meeting. 

 

APOLOGIES:

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

 

WELCOME TO STUDENTS FROM I.T. SLIGO:

The Leas-Cathaoirleach welcomed Ms. Joan Morrison (Lecturer European Studies, German School of Business and Social Sciences in I. T. Sligo) and her students to the meeting.

 

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS – RE. CLOSURE OF BASTA FACTORY IN TUBBERCURRY:

The Leas-Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that he had received a request to suspend Standing Orders as follows:

Proposed by Councillor Margaret Gormley
Seconded by Councillor Michael Clarke

“That Standing Orders be suspended to allow the Council to discuss the closure of the Basta Factory in Tubbercurry with the loss of 48 jobs.”

The Members agreed to this request and a discussion ensued.  

Members expressed their dismay at the news and said every support should be given to the people losing their jobs.

It was then

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

AND AGREED

"That this Council calls on the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys, T.D. to:

  1. Ensure those who have lost their jobs will be given the help and support they require
  2. That the Minister works with the I.D.A. to have a replacement industry provided in Tubbercurry.”

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF THE SLIGO MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 16TH JULY, 2018:

Proposed by Councillor H. Keaney
Seconded by Councillor Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Sligo Municipal District Meeting held on 16th July, 2018.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 1ST OCTOBER, 2018:

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

“That the following amendments would be made to the Minutes of Ordinary Meeting held on 1st October, 2018 furnished to the Members:

  1. Councillor Healy’s attendance at the Meeting had not been recorded,
  2. On page 14, in the following extract –

“Councillor MacManus stated for the record that it was his opinion that the new agency would hamper the supply of public housing due to its over reliance on the public sector.”

The word ‘public’ to be replaced with the word ‘private’ and

  1. Under item 59 (relating to ‘Period Poverty’) it had been recorded that the resolution had been proposed by Councillor Gormley and seconded by Councillor Kilgannon.  This should have read proposed by Councillor MacManus and seconded by Councillor Bree.”

On the correction of the above items, the Members then agreed

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 1st October, 2018.”

 

3.  DISPOSAL OF LAND AT FINISKLIN TO SLIGO PORT AND WAREHOUSE COMPANY LIMITED:

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

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of land at Finisklin to Sligo Port and Warehouse Company Limited, Deepwater Quay, Sligo.”

Councillor Bree sought clarification on items 3 and 4 in relation to valuations, the sums proposed and the circumstances surrounding both the lease and sale.  The details were provided by Mr. Gavin, A/D.O.S.

Members queried the timeframe surrounding the commencement of these arrangements.  The Chief Executive noted that Sligo County Council had inherited the problem, and noted that it was evident from the map and outline detail that this was a complex issue.  It was proposed to establish a Property Management Team and approval had been sought from the Department.  The remit of the Team would be to examine and resolve these types of issues.  A brief discussion had taken place with Minister Damien English when he had visited Sligo recently and it had been positively received. 

A vote was called which resulted as follows:

FOR:  Councillor Baker, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Gormley, Councillor Henry, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Kilgannon, Councillor Lundy, Councillor Maguire, Councillor MacSharry and Councillor Taylor (11)

AGAINST:  Councillor Bree, Councillor Healy and Councillor MacManus (3)

ABSENT:  Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor O’Grady and Councillor Queenan (4)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the resolution carried.

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

At 10.35 a.m., the Cathaoirleach Councillor Baker took the Chair.

 

4.  LEASING OF LAND AT FINISKLIN TO SLIGO PORT AND WAREHOUSE COMPANY LIMITED:

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

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the granting of a lease of land at Finisklin to Sligo Port and Warehouse Company Limited, Deepwater Quay, Sligo.”

A vote was called which resulted as follows:

FOR:  Councillor Baker, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Gormley, Councillor Henry, Councillor Keaney, Councillor Kilgannon, Councillor Lundy, Councillor Maguire, Councillor MacSharry and Councillor Taylor (11)

AGAINST:  Councillor Bree, Councillor Healy and Councillor MacManus (3)

ABSENT:  Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor O’Grady and Councillor Queenan (4)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the resolution carried.

 

5.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF ESTATE – “GORT NA SI”, COOLANEY:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

6.  HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY LOAN FOR HOUSE PURCHASES:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council raise a loan from the Housing Finance Agency in the sum of €5m for the purpose to finance the making of local authority loans to borrowers for House purchases."

 

7.  2018-19 WINTER SERVICE PLAN:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the 2018/19 Winter Service Plan”.

 

8.  N17 KNOCK TO COLLOONEY ROAD IMPROVEMENT SCHEME – SECTION 85 AGREEMENT WITH MAYO COUNTY COUNCIL:

Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting that this agreement, if approved, would bring the N17 route from Stage 0 to Stage 4 and would involve the Sligo Design Office driving the Plan. As the most adverse part of the road was in Sligo together with most incidents, accidents and junctions, it was in Sligo County Council’s interest that they would manage this project.  It was noted that a similar item had been listed on the Agenda for Mayo County Council’s November Meeting.

Members extended their thanks Mr. Kilfeather, his staff and to Councillor Gormley for her efforts down the years to keep this matter to the forefront.

The Director of Services thanked the Members for their comments and confirmed that T.I.I. was agreeable to this arrangement due to the quality of the work delivered by the Sligo Road Design Office on the N4 Project.

In reply to enquiries regarding the level of staffing required to carry out this work, the Chief Executive informed the meeting that a proposal was being formalised to submit to T.I.I. in this regard.  It was hoped that this would be reflected in the budget for 2019.

 

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council agrees to the making of an Agreement, as presented to it, under Section 85 of the Local Government Act, 2001 (as amended) and Section 14 of the Roads Act, 1993 with Mayo County Council for the carrying out by Sligo County Council of the relevant statutory procedures, procuring the necessary design work, acquiring the land and carrying out of the construction works and any other powers, functions and duties necessary for the N17 Knock to Collooney Road Improvement Scheme.

The making of an Agreement by a Local Authority under Section 85 of the Local Government Act, 2001 (as amended) is a reserved function.”

 

9.  DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS:

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 following roads as public roads in accordance with Section 11 (1) of the Roads Act, 1993

Road NumberLocation and terminal points
L-13050-1 Road situate in the housing development known as “The Sidewalk”, Riverstown, Co. Sligo.
L-34051-0 Road situate in the development known as “Collins Development, Drum Road, Rathcormac.  The water Supply system which is a private group water scheme and the waste water treatment plant which is classified by Irish Water as Developer Provided  Infrastructure are not to be included in the Taking in Charge process.
L-16038-0
L-55075-0
L-55075-1
L-55075-2
L-55075-3
L-55075-4
 Roads situate in the housing development known as “Castleburn”, Ballymote.
L-82096-0
L-82098-1
L-82098-0

Roads situate in the development known as “Coill Dara”, Rathscanlon, Tubbercurry.

 

10.  REDEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE OF USE OF STEPHEN STREET CAR PARK TO PEDESTRIANISED PUBLIC PLAZA:

Ms. Clarke outlined the background to the proposal before the Elected Members. 

Submissions and observations had been invited during the period 11th September to 26th October.  24 submissions had been received and were listed in the Chief Executive’s Report to the Members.

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, having considered the Chief Executive’s Report, in accordance with the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act 2000 (as amended), Part XI, Section 179; and the Planning and Development Regulations 2001(as amended), Part 8 (Article 81) as amended, proceed with the carrying out of works consisting of the redevelopment and change of use of Stephen Street car park to pedestrianised public plaza.”

 

11.  TOWN AND VILLAGE RENEWAL SCHEME, U.R.D.F. AND R.R.D.F.:

The Chief Executive and Directors gave a detailed presentation on development proposals for Sligo under the following headings:

Sligo – Development Proposals

  • Town and Village Renewal Scheme
  • U.R.D.F. (Urban Regional Development Fund) submissions to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government
  • R.R.D.F. (Rural Regional Development Fund) submissions to the Department of Rural and Community Development).

Under the U.R.D.F. Scheme, this was divided into

Category A (Ready to go):

  1. Eastern Garavogue Bridge and approach roads Scheme,
  2. O’Connell Street Enhancement and
  3. Stephen Street as a Cultural Plaza.

Category B (Further development):

  1. Public Realm Plan
  2. Yeats World Centre
  3. Sligo Local Gas Network
  4. Sligo Learning and Ideas Generation Centre (SLIGC) and
  5. Sligo East City Regeneration.

Similarly, the R.R.D.F. Scheme, this was divided into

Category 1 (Ready to go) and

Category 2 (Further development):

 

The final portion of the presentation concluded with references to the Harbour/Docks area, Grange Armada Centre and Wine Street.

Members were advised in relation to the timescale and process for the projects.

The Meeting was advised that 16 acres of land had recently been acquired by Sligo County Council, adjacent to the route of the Eastern Garavogue bridge.  The land had a ‘mixed-use’ zoning which would permit housing development.

The Chief Executive cautioned that no funding had been allocated; submissions were prepared as a result of calls for proposals.

It was agreed that a copy of the presentation would be posted on the Members’ Extranet for their information.

 

12.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2018:

Councillor Bree referred to

a) The Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee (L.T.A.C.C.) Programme 2019-2024 and the significant role this Committee had to play.  Further to the resignation of some Committee Members in recent months, an update was sought as to progress with representatives of the Travelling Community.

Mr. Gavin advised the Members that he had attended a Meeting, together the Cathaoirleach, with representatives of the Sligo Traveller Support Group.

b)  Allocation of Housing Tenancy – clarification was sought in relation to the timescale between an applicant being advised that they were being allocated a house and the date of actual hand-over  of the house some months later.  Mr. Murphy clarified the circumstances and difficulties which arose on occasions and the resultant delays.

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for September 2018”.

 

13.  DOMESTIC VIOLENCE BILL:

Councillor MacManus advised the Meeting that he wished to withdraw this item from the Agenda.

 

14.  UPGRADING OF TREATMENT WORKS AT STRANDHILL:

Councillor Maguire advised the Meeting that she wished to withdraw this item from the Agenda.

 

15.  USE OF COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDERS TO ACQUIRE LONG TERM VACANT HOUSES:

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

AND AGREED

“That in view of the ever intensifying housing crisis this Council resolves that in areas of high demand the Council will use Compulsory Purchase Orders to acquire long term vacant houses and make them available for applicants on the Councils Housing Waiting list.”

Mr. Murphy SEO advised the Meeting that the Council is very active in acquiring houses in the housing market over the last number of years, to include Part V houses.

In 2015 the Council acquired 15 no. houses, 2016- 25 no. houses, 2017- 34 no. houses and 2018 - 10 no. to date. The Council also has a number of other houses at either sale agreed or contract signed stage. The Council will be continuing with this policy which, as it is done by agreement, avoids any potential challenges and costs to what can be associated with a lengthy CPO process. 

The Council will seek to acquire by agreement long term vacant houses which come to notice, which are in good structural condition and which are in areas where there is a demand for social housing. The Council will consider using its compulsory purchase powers where agreement to purchase cannot be reached with the owner.

Each case will however be dealt with on its own merits.

 

LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH:

At 12.30 the Leas-Cathaoirleach took the Chair and the Cathaoirleach resumed the Chair at 12.40 p.m.

 

16.  REVIEW OF THE L.I.S. SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“Ask the Director of Services to review the L.I.S. scheme.”

The Department of Rural and Community Development allocated funding for L.I.S in 2017 and 2018.  They set out the Scheme criteria and Sligo County Council is prioritising applications based on the Scheme criteria.  It is planned that the Schemes are carried out efficiently, give good value for money and maximise the number of beneficiaries with the funding available, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.

In reply to references to the Scheme operated by Mayo County Council, the Director of Services indicated that contact would be made with them in this regard.

 

17.  C.P.O. ON APARTMENT COMPLED ON THE MALL,  SLIGO:

The following motion, as listed by Councillor O’Boyle, was deferred to the December Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“Sligo County Council do a compulsory purchase order on the vacant apartment complex on The Mall, Sligo.”

 

ITEMS 22-24 ON THE AGENDA

The Cathaoirleach indicated that, at the request of Councillor MacSharry, he would deal with items 22-24 at this time.

 

22.  TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES ON FINISKLIN ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council Engineering staff would assess the urgent need for traffic management measures on the Finisklin Road in the interests of health and safety”

The Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather, D.O.S., that the Council carried out significant improvement works along Finisklin Road during 2016, including the upgrading of footpaths and the installation of a dedicated cycle lane along the full extent of Finisklin Road.  These works have been designed and constructed in accordance with Department of Transport Design Guidelines. 

It should be noted that the provision of a pedestrian crossing at this location will not be the panacea for all concerns around school safety.  The provision of a controlled pedestrian crossing will ensure a safe place for pupils/pedestrians to cross between the school and the nearby filling station.  However it is important to note that parking is prohibited within 15m on the approach side and 5m on the downstream side of a pedestrian crossing.  The installation of a pedestrian crossing at this location will also give rise to traffic delays during school drop-off and collection times. 

 

23.  ROUNDABOUT AT SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

"That Sligo County Council engineering staff would put traffic management signage in place alerting drivers to the main roundabout at Sligo University Hospital in the interests of health and safety".

The Roads Department will undertake a review of all approach signage to the mini-roundabout over the coming weeks.  Additional signage will be provided if same is deemed necessary, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.

 

24.  PROVISION OF BUS SHELTER ON FIRST SEA ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council would provide a bus shelter at the bus stop on the First Sea Road to accommodate the many elderly people using the bus stop especially during the winter months".

The Members were informed by Mr. Kilfeather DOS that the provision of bus shelters is a matter for the National Transport Authority in conjunction with Bus Éireann.  The Council will write to the National Transport Authority to advise them of this motion and request that they give consideration to the provision of a bus shelter at the First Sea Road.

 

18.  CLEAN UP OF STOCKPILES OF TYRES:

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

AND AGREED

“To discuss the possibility of Sligo County Council applying for funding that was recently announced by the Department of the Environment enabling local authorities to deal with the clean-up of existing stockpiles of tyres across the country and the possibility of having a collection day in Sligo”. 

The Meeting received a report from Mr. Kilfeather DOS as follows - This was a pilot scheme funded by Minister Naughton and is being administered by the IFFPG (Irish Farm Film Producers Group).  There were 4 sites identified and agreed to pilot this initiative.  These were in Cavan, Galway, Tipperary and Wexford.  A total of €700,000 was granted for this Pilot which was specific to farmers to allow for the correct disposal of unused tyres from their farmyards.  AES (Advanced Environmental Solutions) were awarded the contract to collect and dispose of these tyres.  The last collection day was on Saturday 20th October 2018. 

Due to the unprecedented demand at all locations, it is anticipated that this Pilot may be further rolled out to other locations in the country in 2019.  Representations will be made by Sligo County Council to the DCCAE and IFFPG to run a scheme in Sligo, should the pilot be expanded.

 

20.  REVIEW OF TRAFFIC ISSUES IN COLLOONEY VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to ask that the Roads Design Section in its 2019 Work Programme would undertake a review of traffic issues in Collooney Village including giving consideration to making the main street a one–way system”.

The Members were advised by Mr. Kilfeather that this matter may be examined by the Council’s Road Design Department in 2019.  It is important to note that any proposals which would considerably alter the existing traffic flow arrangements within Collooney Village would have to be subject to extensive consultation with stakeholders including but not limited to Members of the Public, An Garda Síochána, Fire Services, Ambulance Services, Local Business Groups, Community Groups and Residents Associations etc.  

 

21.  V.A.T. ON LIFE SAVING EQUIPMENT:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Finance to get rid of V.A.T. on life saving equipment like defibrillators.  Defibrillators currently attract a 23 per cent rate.”

 

25.  UPDATE ON PROVISION OF GRAVEYARDS IN GRANGE AND ROSSES POINT:

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

AND AGREED

“That a report be provided indicating what progress has being made by Sligo County Council in its efforts to secure land in the Grange area for a new Graveyard and also for an extension to the Rosses Point Graveyard”.

The Members noted the contents of the report furnished to them by Mr. Kilfeather, D.O.S.  - As yet, no suitable lands have been identified in either the Rosses Point or Grange communities for the provision of new burial grounds. Sligo County Council has considered specific sites relevant to both locations in recent months in relation to Rosses Point and in recent weeks in relation to Ahamlish but these have been deemed unsuitable. We continue to engage actively with community representatives in Rosses Point in an effort to progress the issue. The Council will continue to work with representatives from both communities with a view to assessing the suitability of potential burial ground lands as they are identified.  

 

26.  REVIEW OF PUBLIC LIGHTING ON THE HILL ROAD IN UPPER 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 over a distance of approximately 800m .Would it be possible to have more lights fitted on the existing poles as it's very dark there especially in the winter?”. 

Can the Roads Department provide the review of the public lighting along the roadway in question please?  

The Meeting was informed that the road in question represents a transition to a rural setting. The Council have health and safety concerns in relation to providing public lights on existing ESB poles. Additionally the ESB pole is not an asset of the Council and as such the Council are reliant on permission from the ESB to access the light if provided. There are no specific funds available for the provision of new public lighting projects.

Mr. Kilfeather further clarified that, in the last 18 months, 700 additional public lights had been taken in charge, mainly through resolutions for taking in charge of estates. This was an extra 10% in the number of public lights the Council now had responsibility for with a very significant cost. Energy costs were also going up. This was adding a huge cost burden to the Council’s Revenue account.

In reply to further queries raised by Members, the Chief Executive said that sums paid through Development levies were towards the capital costs of providing services in the relevant areas. Expenditure on public lighting was a Revenue cost.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned at 1.10 p.m. and resumed at 1.45 p.m.

 

27.  29.  40.  STANDING 4 WOMEN CAMPAIGN REGARDING THE CERVICAL CHECK SCANDAL:

The Cathaoirleach indicated that, as the content of items 27, 29 and 40 were similar, he would take them together at this time:

Item 27 – submitted by Councillor C. MacManus

Item 29 – submitted by Councillor D. Bree and

Item 40 – submitted by Councillor K. Henry.

The following motion was unanimously agreed by the Members:

“That Sligo County Council calls upon An Taoiseach and the Minster for Health to acknowledge, support and respond in detail to the demands of the Standing4Women* campaign regarding the Cervical Check scandal.

These include legislation and policy on mandatory open disclosure, the provision of a start and end date of full disclosure on the 1800 smears yet to be audited, and details of new packages being negotiated with laboratories carrying out smear slide analysis, including mandatory site audits.”

 

28.  PROVISION OF WATER FOUNTAINS BY IRISH WATER:

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

AND AGREED

“To discuss the idea of Sligo County Council asking Irish Water to install water fountains in various locations around Sligo town and other towns in the county to encourage the re-use and re-filling of water bottles”.

Mr. Kilfeather informed the Meeting that Irish Water had replied to the query as follows “while Irish Water would support the reuse of bottles etc., currently no budget exists in the CDS (Connections and Developer Services) part of Irish Water to fund such connections.”

 

30.  MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Finance Minister Mr. Paschal Donohoe to request the main Mortgage lending Banks to reduce the excessive Mortgage interest rates so to bring rates in line with the European average of 1.77%.Irish rates are stubbornly high at 3.15%.”

 

31.  REINTRODUCTION OF DECENTRALISATION PROGRAMME:

The notice of motion submitted by Councillor Lundy on this matter was deferred, with the consent of the Cathaoirleach, to the agenda of the Ordinary Meeting in December.

 

32.  “BOIL WATER NOTICE” ON LOUGH TALT WATER SUPPLY:

The notice of motion submitted by Councillor Lundy on this matter was deferred, with the consent of the Cathaoirleach, to the Agenda of the Ordinary Meeting in December.

 

33.  ROAD SURFACE AT ‘CASHEL GATES’ ON N17 SOUTH OF TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“A section of the N17 road south of Tubbercurry at Cashel Gates its surface is very uneven and extremely dangerous for all road users. I am calling on the T.I.I. and Sligo County Council to have this matter addressed before there is a serious accident.”

Mr. Kilfeather informed the Members that this section of work has been designed and procured and a Contractor has been appointed. We are currently awaiting mobilisation by the Contractor which was provisionally fixed for 30th October, 2018. The works will involve drainage and the resurfacing of 450m of the N17 pavement. Works are expected to last approximately for two weeks.

 

As items 34 and 39 both related to this matter, the Cathaoirleach took both items at this time.

34.  TRANSPORT FOR PATIENTS FROM SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL TO GALWAY:

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

AND AGREED

“As the bus provided in 2011 to transport cancer patients from Sligo to Galway has been withdrawn, this Council calls on the H.S.E. to have it reinstated.”

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

AND AGREED

“Concerned that the specially adapted bus which has been bringing cancer patients from Sligo and the North West to University Hospital Galway, is currently out of service, this Council calls on the Minister for Health to take the necessary steps to ensure that adequate resources are put in place to have the bus put back in service or replaced as a matter of urgency.”

 

35.  FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY GRANTS, DISABLED PERSON’S GRANTS, HOUSING AID FOR THE ELDERLY AND LOCAL ROADS:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor Keaney

“To call on this Council to ring fence the dividend paid by Irish Public Bodies to Sligo County Council for funding towards Community grants, DPG grants, Housing aid for the elderly and local roads.”

Head of Finance Marie Whelan outlined the details of the Retained Earnings Distribution Fund and the issue of ‘retro-settlement’ of claims for 2015 and 2016. As discussed previously, there was a commitment to pay the Lissadell costs from the RED fund.

The Chief Executive advised that this sum was incorporated in the Budget on an annual basis. The ultimate responsibility for the budget lay with the Members. A report on the Retained Earnings Distribution had been circulated to the Corporate Policy Group in September 2017. This set out the monies that had been negotiated in respect of the funds coming to Sligo County Council.

Should the Council decide to take money intended for the reduction of risk and in taking down the Council’s debt, the Chief Executive advised the Members that this would compromise him in discussions with the Department. It was critical that the Council had a viable and sustainable budget where income was coming in to be set off against costs and reduction of risk. He informed Members that a briefing on the finalisation of the Lissadell costs was given to a recent meeting of the Corporate Policy Group

Councillor Kilgannon recalled the decision to pay the Lissadell costs from the Retained Earnings Distribution Fund. He referred to the revised sum of €2.075 million as the sum for the Lissadell legal costs and pointed out that, in the past, they had been advised of a figure of €3.68 million as the amount to be paid. The Chief Executive confirmed that information on the treatment of the Retained Earnings Distribution income had been given to the Members previously.

Members expressed their views in relation to the issues set out in the motion, Councillor Queenan requested that the item would be listed on the Budget Meeting Agenda and this was agreed by the Members.

 

36.  COASTAL PROTECTION WORKS ON ROAD 79 AT EASKEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services to apply to the Department for funding to protect Road 79 at Easkey from coastal damage.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported to the Meeting that a section of Road 79 (L2401-0) runs alongside the coast and debris gets deposited onto the road during some storms. The debris does not affect any houses. Sligo County Council closed the road occasionally during storms if there is a risk of material getting deposited onto the road. Due to the length of road exposed to the sea the cost of the works required would be substantial. An application for funding can be made to the relevant government departments.

 

37.  REDUCTION OF SPEED LIMIT ON R297 AT BALLYMONEEN:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services to commence the process of reducing speed limit on R297 at Ballymoneen.”

In reply, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Members that the Council will erect further warning signs (Goalposts) on the R297 to warn of bad bends.

 

38.  NATIONAL OVERSIGHT AND AUDIT COMMISSION (N.O.A.C.) REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2018:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council notes the National Oversight & Audit Commission’s Report ‘Local Authority Performance Indicator Report 2017’ [NOAC Report No. 19 – September 2018].

Further, that this Council asks for a report as to the rationale why this Report states that this local authority had:

  • In 2017, the highest ‘Average Re-letting Time’ in the state at seventy-eight weeks;
  • In 2017, the lowest ‘Average Repair & Maintenance costs per local authority dwelling’ in the state at €366;
  • To ask is there any interim figures for 2018 showing that both the above 2017 figures have improved.

and whether improving Housing staff numbers, increased funding from the Department of Housing or any other suggestion from the Executive could further improve these figures, identified in the NOAC Report, for 2019 onwards.”

Mr. Murphy SEO Housing provided the Members with a detailed report in relation to:

  • Average Re-letting Time
  • Average Repair & Maintenance costs per local authority dwelling’

Additional staff resources and funding would further improve the performance of the Council under these indicators. The Council is also examining its current processes with a view to further reducing re-letting times.”

In support of Councillor MacManus’s motion, Members queried the timeframe compared with other counties, and were provided with instances of particular difficulties experienced in Sligo.

 

41.  BARRIER AT EASKEY COMMUNITY COUNCIL:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council contacts Easkey Community Council regarding the recently erected coin-operated barrier at the entrance to the grounds of the local Community Centre and to query whether this barrier will impede access to Council provided Recycling Bring Banks located within the adjoining car park.”

Mr. Kilfeather DOS informed the Meeting that communication was made with Easkey Community Council regarding the recently erected barrier at the entrance to the grounds of the Community Centre. Sligo County Council was informed that this barrier has been installed for security reasons due to an increase in anti-social behaviour in Easkey over recent months. It has been requested that this barrier is not to be used during day time hours, in order to allow free access for the general public to the Bring Bank Facility located on site.

Discussions are currently on-going regarding the re-location of this facility to a more appropriate location elsewhere in the village.

Councillor Bree enquired whether a coin operated car park would require planning permission. The Members were not aware of any application for this development. Ms. Clarke undertook to liaise with the Planning Enforcement Section in this regard.

Noting the content of the report, Councillor Queenan expressed the hope that the recycling banks would be left at their current location as this was the most suitable site in the village.

Councillor MacManus agreed that this was the prime location and was unsure as to the difficulty with security as referred to in the report. And he felt that the community in the areas should also be involved in any discussions on the matter.

 

42.  DOG WASTE DISPOSAL SYSTEM:

With the Cathaoirleach’s consent, the following item submitted by Councillor O’Boyle was deferred to the December Agenda:

“Can Sligo County Council put a dog waste disposal system in place in the Cartron Bay/Point area.”

 

43.  VACANT COUNCIL PROPERTIES:

With the Cathaoirleach’s consent, the following item submitted by Councillor O’Boyle was also deferred to the December Agenda:

“To enquire as to why Sligo takes over 70 weeks to get vacant council properties back in circulation.”

 

44.  SERVICED SITE FUND SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to apply for funding under the Serviced Site Fund Scheme as soon as possible and to begin the process of assessments of the land bank to provide affordable housing to buy or rent on Council land.”

Mr. Murphy reported that it is expected that there will be a call from the Department for submissions under the Fund early in the New Year. In the meantime Councils have been asked to carry out economic assessments on their land bank in order to examine the economic viability of affordable housing provision on each site.

 

45.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ISLANDS IN BALLISODARE AND BALLYGAWLEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to address the ongoing concerns of road users and residents in Ballygawley and in Ballisadare re the lack of lighting on the pedestrian crossing islands of the traffic calming zones in these villages.”

Mr. Kilfeather provided the Meeting with an update advising them that the existing traffic islands in Ballygawley were installed as part of a traffic calming scheme for the village. The primary aim of these islands is to alert drivers to the fact that they are entering a village and that they must adjust their driving speeds accordingly. As such these islands are not designed to facilitate crossing of pedestrians. Under current legislation, such traffic islands must contain adequate illumination such that road users can see them in the hours of darkness.

There are two uncontrolled pedestrian crossing points in Ballisodare, both of which include pedestrian refuge. It is considered that these crossing points are adequately illuminated; one with lighting on the central refuge and footpath and the other with a public lighting column within 10 metres.

 

19.  SIGNAGE FOR PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CENTRE AT BALLYMOTE:

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

“To call on the H.S.E. and Sligo County Council to fit adequate signage for the new Primary Health Care Centre at Ballymote”.

The Director of Services advised the Members that the Ballymote Area Engineer will liaise with the H.S.E. to get suitable directional signage erected.

 

46.  WORKS AT COLE’S JUNCTION, CARRICKBANAGHER LOWER, BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to work with local residents in the Carrickbanagher Lower area of Ballymote to see what remedial works can be carried out at Coles Junction to improve sightlines and safety at this location.”

This is a T junction of two local roads. Traffic volumes are relatively low. There is not a history of collisions occurring at the junction. The Ballymote Area Engineer will contact the landowner to get the hedge/trees trimmed back to improve sightlines at the junction, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Members.

 

47.  FUNDING FOR CLASS 3 ROADS IN 2019:

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

AND AGREED

“As there is 850 km of Class 3 roads in the county for which no funding has been provided for by Government in the past nine years, this Council calls on the Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport to ring fence funding for Class 3 Roads in 2019 and that the Minister for Community and Rural affairs Minister Michael Ring provide matching funds.”

 

48.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF ‘KNOXVILLE MANOR’, BELLAGHY:

The Cathaoirleach consented to the following motion, as listed by Councillor Lundy, being deferred to the December Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“I will ask for a report on the taking in charge of ‘Knoxville Manor Estate’ in Bellaghy, Charlestown, Co. Sligo.”

 

49.  SLIGO PORT:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with a report on the development of Sligo port and in particular the proposals to increase trade in the port and the plans to carry out dredging in the harbour.”

Councillor Bree outlined the background to his submission of this motion and enquired if Minutes were available for meetings of the Harbour Advisory Committee. Ms. Clarke confirmed that she would follow up on this enquiry.

Mr. Kilfeather reported that regarding future development of the Harbour the issue of dredging is critical. An application for Dumping dredged and displaced material has been lodged with the EPA for some time. The EPA most recently requested further additional Information on the 16th October 2018. Sligo Co. Co. replied on the 30th October and we await the EPA decision. We expect that decision to issue shortly.

In 2017 a total of 8 No. ships used the port. The forecast outturn for 2018 is 12 No. ships equating to 19 No. cargos as some of these vessels arrived with one cargo and departed with another. It is the considered opinion of the Harbour Master that new and expanded trade could easily occur if even maintenance dredging took place.

The Floating Pontoon at Ballast Quay is proving very successful. 20 No. visitor boats used this facility in 2017 and the forecast outturn for 2018 is similar. Sligo County Council has sought funding for an extension to the Pontoon over last couple of years but without success.

The harbour area includes some land interests that the Council became responsible for on takeover of the harbour. Much of those interests are by way of leases from various ministers who, in their time, had responsibility for the foreshore and there is some land also held in freehold by the Council. On takeover the Council inherited some differences or disputes in respect of some land holdings between parties involved in those holdings and the Council (as successor to the Harbour Commissioners).

The preparation of a formal Docklands Local Area Plan in the future would be important. That could be commenced when the Sligo & Environs Local Area Plan is agreed and adopted. Work on the Sligo & Environs Local area plan will commence in 2019. In the context of preparing a Docklands Local area Plan all environmental issues, flood risk assessments, local know ledge of lands known to flood, sea level changes, land zoning, flood defence measures would have to be taken into consideration.

In thanking the Director of Services for the report, Councillor Bree said it was very important that maintenance dredging would be carried out. The fact that ships were taking cargo out, as well as in, was very positive. In reply to his enquiry as to whether the Committee functioned or met at present, the Chief Executive advised the meeting that it had not met in recent times and that he would revert to the Members on this matter.

 

50.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ms. Vanessa Clarke of Pearse Road, Sligo on the death of her husband, Timmy Newell.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gerry Lyons and family of Dernaskeagh, Keash on the death of his father, Tommie.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Gerry McCoy and family of Carn, Gurteen on the death of his wife, Kathleen.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Geraldine Conboy and family of Carrowreagh Knox, Tubbercurry on the death of her husband, Maurice.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Perry and family of Cloonameehan, Bunninadden, Co. Sligo on the death of her sister, Kathleen Reilly.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Eileen Grady of Carrentemple, Gurteen on the death of her husband, Gerry.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Cyril Reilly and family of Cloonaughill, Charlestown on the death of his wife, Kathleen.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bridie Brennan of Tawnagh, Riverstown on the death of her husband, Frank.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kay McDermottroe of Lecarrow, Ballinafad on the death of her husband, Henry.”

 

51.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Shamrock Gaels on winning the Intermediate Championships.

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Tourlestrane Ladies Team and St. Nathy’s.”

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Grange Minor Team.”

 

52.  CONFERENCES/TRAINING:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

53.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES/TRAINING:

The Members noted the summary of proceedings of Conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5) (f) of the Local Government Act, 2001.

 

54.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members noted the items of correspondence received.

 

55.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

56.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

a) Court Abbey Cemetery Monument

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the office of Minister Josepha Madigan to seek funding to conduct a survey and carry out works at the Court Abbey Cemetery Monument.”

b) Enniscrone Plebiscite

Councillor Queenan enquired if there had been any update from the Minister in relation to this matter. The Chief Executive said he understood that they were awaiting legislation. To date, no further information was to hand.

 

END OF MEETING:

The business of the Meeting concluded at 4.05 p.m.

 

 


Meeting Date 05/11/2018