Minutes 2019

Minutes of September Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 2nd September, 2019 at 10 am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Casserly,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Connolly,
  • Councillor Fox,
  • Councillor Gilroy,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor MacManus,
  • Councillor MacSharry,
  • Councillor Maguire,
  • Councillor Mullaney,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor O’Grady,
  • Councillor Queenan,
  • Councillor Taylor,
  • Councillor Walsh.

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
  • Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
  • Bartley Gavin, Director of Services
  • John Reilly, Head of Enterprise
  • Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
  • Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Pete Murtagh, Environmental Awareness Officer
  • Clodagh Quinn, Staff Officer
  • Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer
  • Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor Tom MacSharry, presided. 

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY HELD ON 25TH MARCH, 2019:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Ballymote-Tobercurry held on 25th March, 2019.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 15TH APRIL, 2019:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Sligo held on 15th April, 2019.”

 

3.  MINUTES OF A.G.M. OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF HELD ON 17TH JUNE, 2019:

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of A.G.M. of Municipal District of Sligo-Drumcliff held on 17th June, 2019.”

 

4.  MINUTES OF A.G.M. OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 17TH JUNE, 2019:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of A.G.M. of Borough District of Sligo held on 17th June, 2019.”

 

5.  MINUTES OF A.G.M. OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY HELD ON 17TH JUNE, 2019:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Municipal District of Ballymote-Tubbercurry held on 17th June, 2019.”

 

6.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 1ST JULY, 2019:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 1st July, 2019.”

 

7.  MINUTES OF ADJOURNED MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 8TH JULY, 2019:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Adjourned Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 8th July, 2019.”

 

8.  DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS –
“INNISFREE COURT”, TONAPHUBBLE
“GLENDALLON ESTATE”, SLIGO AND
‘GLENVIEW PARK’ GRANGE

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

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 NumbersLocation
L-92157-0, L-92157-1, L-92157-3, L-92157-4      

The roads serving development known as “Innisfree Court”, Tonaphubble, Sligo.
L-90059-0, L-90059-1, L-90059-2 The roads serving development known as “Glendallon Estate”, Sligo.
L-72094-0, L-72095-0 The roads serving development known as “Glenview Park”, Newgrange, Grange, Co. Sligo.”


9.  TAKING IN CHARGE – ‘WATERSIDE LANE’ (PHASE II) STRANDHILL:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

10.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF 7 DEMOUNTABLES TO MR. JOHN MCGANN, MCGANN CONSTRUCTION:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“To approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of 7 demountables to John McGann, McGann Construction.”

 

11.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 3 MAIN STREET, GURTEEN TO SALLY AND JOHN GRACE:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor

Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“To approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of dwellinghouse and lands at 3 Main Street, Gurteen, Co. Sligo to Sally and John Grace.”

 

12.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT CARROWNADARGNY GEEVAGH TO MR. LIAM O’ROURKE:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“To approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of dwellinghouse and lands at Carrownadargny, Geevagh, Co. Sligo to Mr. Liam O’Rourke.”

 

13.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT CLOGHOGE UPPER, CASTLEBALDWIN TO MR. JOHN MCGANN:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of dwellinghouse and lands at Cloghoge Upper, Castlebaldwin, Co. Sligo to Mr. John McGann.”

 

14.  SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 106 GARAVOGUE VILLAS, SLIGO TO MR. CONOR O’BRIEN:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“To approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of dwellinghouse and lands at 106 Garavogue Villas, Sligo to Mr. Conor O’Brien.”

 

15.  TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION PROGRAMME (FOR THE PERIOD 1ST JULY, 2019 TO 30TH JUNE, 2024):

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To adopt the Traveller Accommodation Programme for the period 1st July, 2019 to 30th June, 2024.”

 

16.  APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL STAFF MEMBERS TO THE LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:

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

AND AGREED

“To appoint Bartley Gavin, Acting Director of Services, Pamela Andison, Administrative Officer, Sean Martin, Senior Architect and Gary Kelly, Traveller Liaison Officer to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.”

 

17.  APPOINTMENT OF TWO MEMBERS TO THE LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Paul Taylor to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.”

and

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Joseph Queenan to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.”

 

18.  APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO THE NORTH WEST AIRPORT COMPANY:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Dónal Gilroy to the North West Airport Company Limited.”

 

19.  APPOINTMENT OF THREE MEMBERS TO “THE MODEL”:

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

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Marie Casserly to The Model.”

 

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

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Tom Fox to The Model.”

 

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

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Michael Clarke to The Model.”

 

20.  APPOINTMENT OF SIX MEMBERS TO THE SLIGO PLACENAMES COMMITTEE:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the appointment of the 6 no. Members to the Sligo Placenames Committee (Councillor Bree, Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor Fox, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke and Councillor Mullaney).”

 

21.  REPORT ON DRAFT STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEES SCHEME 2019-2024:

Councillor MacManus referred to his role as the incoming Chair of S.P.C. 1 (Housing and Corporate).  In the past, the assignment of Sectoral representation on that Committee had been four appointees representing a) Development/Construction, b) Community/Voluntary, c) Social Inclusion and d) Trade Union.  Mr. Gavin, A/D.O.S. confirmed that this would again be the representation on S.P.C. 1 and Councillor MacManus welcomed this confirmation.

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

AND AGREED

“To note report on Draft Strategic Policy Committees Scheme 2019-2024”.

 

22.  LOCAL PROPERTY TAX (1ST NOVEMBER, 2019 TO 31ST OCTOBER, 2020):

Ms. M. Whelan, Head of Finance, advised the meeting of the requirements of the Local Property Tax (Local Adjustment Factor) Regulations 2014, including an estimation of income and expenditure in the period for which the varied rate is to have effect. It was noted in the report that no submissions had been received from members of the public during the public consultation period from 18th July to 20th August, 2019.

The beneficial impact to Sligo County Council of an increase of 15% based on the figures from the 2019 L.P.T. takings was €790,691.  This funding was required to support the many projects that had been allocated funding in 2019.

The Chief Executive advised that real progress was made in successfully advancing projects for the benefit of Sligo, and that while the projects came with funding, many required a match-funding element.  In the event of the Members deciding to increase the L.P.T., his advice was to ring-fence it for specific projects.

 

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%”.

Councillor Clarke sought assurances that the Housing Grants for Older People would be maintained at all times and felt that this would be an added incentive to vote in favour of an increase.

Councillor Queenan referred to Members seeking projects to be funded, cul-de-sac funding, etc. and said he would, therefore, have to vote against a 15% reduction.  He felt that this proposal was unrealistic and a 15% increase in funding would be very welcome.  It was great to see Minister Ring allocating funding to rural towns and villages.

Members outlined their difficulty in supporting an increase but highlighted that, over a five year period; this would mean an additional income in the region of €4 million for Sligo County Council.

In agreeing with those comments, Councillor O’Grady asked that a portion of it would be allocated to each of the three areas.  At the end of the five year period, Members would be able to point out what was delivered because they had made a tough decision. 

With regard to the proposal, the Chief Executive advised that it would have the effect of reducing the Council’s income €800,000 and he identified the weakness in the proposal in that it did not identify an alternative source of funding.  He advised of a further difficulty of the proposal compromising the success of the Council in advancing many projects of benefit to Sligo.

In response to Councillor Clarke, the Chief Executive confirmed that the issue could be examined where €90,000 could be earmarked specifically to leverage additional funding at the maximum level.  That would still leave Sligo County Council with €700,000.  In regard to Councillor Queenan’s point in relation to funding works to roads and footpaths, the Chief Executive said that the difficulty with funding being put into this area, it would not be seen.  However, it would be seen if it was put into a project like the proposal to significantly enhance Waterpoint.  The other difficulty Sligo County Council had was, if the Members required to put all of the match funding to the proposals they had, that would be drawn out of the Council’s funds.

Councillor MacManus referred to funding having been directed to Irish Water as a debit on the Local Property Tax and the funding having been reduced by the equivalent of the L.P.T.

The Chief Executive advised Members that they were now involved in deliberations with the European Investment Bank and referred to the impetus a proposal for an increase would give Sligo County Council in terms of discussions with the Bank and the Department.  It would strengthen his hand considerably regarding funding.  It would be a very strong statement on the part of Sligo County Council. 

The Members agreed to take Councillor Bree’s proposal at this time and defer further consideration of the matter until later in the Meeting.

 

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%”.

A vote was called by the Cathaoirleach which resulted as follows:

FOR:    Councillor Bree, Councillor Healy, Councillor MacManus and Councillor O’Boyle (4)

AGAINST:  Councillor Baker, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Fox, Councillor Gilroy, Councillor MacSharry, Councillor Maguire, Councillor Mullaney, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Grady, Councillor Queenan and Councillor Taylor (13)

ABSENT:    Councillor Walsh (1)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the resolution lost.

Further discussion on the item was deferred until later in the Meeting, following the adjournment for lunch.

 

23.  SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC (SPECIAL SPEED LIMIT) BYE-LAWS 2019:

Councillor Bree thanked the Director of Services and staff for the work involved in producing the documentation for these bye-laws.  As it was very difficult to examine the maps on line, he enquired if it would be possible for the Members to be provided with hard copies of the reports and maps.  He further enquired if there was a necessity for a Special Meeting to consider the issue.

Director of Services T Kilfeather advised the meeting that the large volume of documentation before the Members had taken a number of years to bring to the Chamber.  It had also been brought to the Municipal District Meetings.  Significant changes had been made years ago and it was not just about changes to the speed limits.  He highlighted a number of the significant items in the report:

  1. In relation to the N17 road from Ballinacarrow to Curry, a reduction from 100 km/h to 80 km/h.
  2. Approaches to towns and villages across the county to an 80-50 version which had been introduced in most local authorities. This used to be 80-60-50.
  3. Approaches to Schools on major network – speed limits would be brought down for mornings and afternoons.

The process would be reviewed again, once the draft before the Members was adopted.  It was a decision for the Members as to when it was adopted and there was no obligation on them to adopt it at this meeting.  It would then come into effect two months after it was adopted.  Whatever decision the Members made would be respected.

The Cathaoirleach asked that item 28 would also be taken by Councillor Clarke at this time in the Meeting and it was

 

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to bring before this Council, without further delay, a review of the speeding limits on our primary routes as has been promised.”

Several Members raised issues from areas across the county including the timing of a review.  Mr Kilfeather advised that a review could be carried out at any time, and there would be a new work programme in the New Year. 

In reply to a query from Councillor Maguire, Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that these issues could be discussed at a Municipal District Meeting.

 

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“To make the Sligo County Council Road Traffic (Special Speed Limit) Bye-Laws 2019, pursuant to the provisions of Section 9 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004”.

Councillor Healy agreed with Councillor Bree’s earlier request and asked that hard copies of the documentation would be made available to the Members.

 

ACTING CATHAOIRLEACH:

As the Cathaoirleach had to leave the Meeting at 11.15 a.m. for a short time, it was

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady would take the Chair in the absence of the Cathaoirleach”.

 

24.  CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGY:

Mr. Murtagh, Environmental Awareness Officer, outlined the background to the process involved in bringing the Climate Adaptation Strategy to this point.  The Chief Executive added that the public would be hearing a lot about mitigation and adaptation.  Adaptation involved doing things like protecting river banks and upgrading insulation of homes.  Mitigation was about our carbon footprint.  Along with the two areas of Adaptation and Mitigation, a third area was Remediation e.g. where the Council was involved in clearing up after severe weather events.

Members welcomed the report before them and paid tribute to the people who participated in the consultation.  Councillor Bree said it was clear that urgent action was required and it would be difficult for a single local authority to act on many of the issues.  Sligo County Council would play its part in addressing issues. 

Councillor MacManus referred to charging points for electric vehicles and outlined statistics involved where an additional 1,000 points were to be provided.  To date, there were approximately a dozen in County Sligo and it was anticipated there would be one million electric vehicles by 2030.

In reply to Councillor MacManus’s query as to whether that point was relevant at that stage, the Chief Executive confirmed that it was. At that time, he was involved in negotiations with the E.S.B. at a national level on behalf of the Local Government sector in relation to a potential collaboration with them.  Electric charging points were a part of those negotiations.  He added that this would be back before the Members at a later stage.

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

At 11.20 a.m., the Cathaoirleach resumed the Chair.

 

CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGY (CONTINUED):

Members commended Mr. Murtagh and his team for the work they had undertaken to produce the strategy.   The Chief Executive thanked the Members for their comments, and introduced a short video promoting the campaign.

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

AND AGREED

“To adopt the Climate Adaptation Strategy”.

 

25.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – JUNE/JULY 2019:

Councillor MacManus referred to some points in the Management Report, including illegal waste in Arigna, social housing units Maugheraboy and Pilot Scheme Cranmore.

The Cathaoirleach and Members congratulated Councillor MacManus on his recent appoint as Chair of the L.C.D.C. 

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for June/July 2019”.

 

26.  COUNTY SLIGO JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE (J.P.C.):

Mr. Gavin, A/D.O.S. presented a report on the establishment of the Joint Policing Committee.  In response to a query from Councillor MacManus, details of the process were outlined with the intention to bring the  Scheme before the Members at their November Meeting, at which point the Councillors would have the opportunity to add further Members if they decided. 

Councillor MacManus noted that the timeframe was similar to that proposed for the Draft SPC Scheme and believed the Department should find a mechanism to streamline the process.

The Members agreed to note the update on establishment of new County Sligo Joint Policing Committee.

 

27.  DESIGNATED ACTIVITY COMPANIES/COMPANIES LIMITED BY GUARANTEE:

Mr. J. Reilly, Head of Enterprise, advised that funding was coming on stream, to facilitate this Enterprise Ireland required a legal entity of a D.A.C. (Designated Activity Company) or C.L.G. (Company Limited by Guarantee) was in place and that Sligo County Council were members of it.  No D.A.C. meant no funding.  Working in the context of the D.A.C., the Council was working with I.T. Sligo and Leitrim County Council to enable the drawdown of funding to upgrade the premises in the Market Yard to upgrade the building for future use.

In acknowledging the clarification, Councillor O’Grady said it was important to upgrade the Market Yard building and anything that would help with this development was to be welcomed.

Councillor Bree referred to Item 45 on the Meeting Agenda in relation to property that Sligo County Council owned. He welcomed the fact that the County Council were seeking finance for its upgrading.   He also enquired whether Elected Representatives would serve on the Boards.

Councillor Casserly referred to Community Groups dealing with Leader, etc. and if a group of Volunteers, instead of setting up a Company, could be provided with an umbrella group in this way.

Councillor Gilroy confirmed that this was a problem for Community Group and gave the example of properties owned by the Office of Public Works.  They would be willing to offer them to Community Groups but the community must have a limited Company. 

In reply to the points raised, the Head of Enterprise said that the setting up of the Company was not a Reserved Function of the County Council.  Membership of a D.A.C. or C.L.G. would be determined by the requirements of the Company setting them up.  An example was given of where Tubbercurry Development Company (A C.L.G.) was pursuing funding for a project in Achonry.  Elected Members were on that Board.

In reply to an enquiry from Councillor Bree as to whether the Members would decide on who would represent Sligo County Council on the Boards, the Chief Executive said it would depend on the designated activity.  Members of the Council were on one of the existing Boards already.  Some had already been appointed to Companies, e.g. Waterpoint. 

Councillor Bree further enquired as to who would decide the designated activity and the Chief Executive advised the Meeting that it would be informed by the relevant call for proposals and associated funding streams.

Councillor Clarke noted that a report like this would not have been furnished to the Members five years ago and felt the Council had come a long way in those five years.

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

AND AGREED

“To note the establishment of, or participation as a partner in, Designated Activity Companies (DACs) or Companies Limited by Guarantee (CLGs) for the purpose of applying for and managing funding and associated projects relating to the development of Sligo and the region”.

 

38.  ROLL-OUT OF 5G:

The Cathaoirleach informed the Meeting that, at the request of some Members, he would take Item 38 on the Agenda.  This would allow those present in the public gallery to have the matter dealt with as early as possible on the Agenda.

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

“That Sligo County Council opposes: (1) testing of 5G and the roll-out of 5G in County Sligo (2) calls on ComReg to deny licensing for its roll-out and (3) calls on the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment to establish the facts about the radiation impact of 5G”.

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that an amended motion had been submitted by Councillor Mullaney, Councillor Taylor, Councillor Connolly and Councillor Mulvey as follows:

“That Sligo County Council delay (1) the testing of 5G and the roll-out of 5G in County Sligo (2) call on ComReg to delay the licensing of its roll-out and (3) calls on the Minister for Communication, Climate Action and the Environment to establish the facts about the radiation impact of 5G and to delay the roll-out across the country until a full assessment of the health and environmental implications are carried out with a report compiled and presented to the Oireachtas.”

Clarification was sought and given regarding the amendments in the new motion and the Cathaoirleach thanked Members for their input.

Councillor Queenan thanked the Cathaoirleach for dealing with item 38 at this time.  This matter would have to be brought to Dáil Éireann.  He expressed disappointment that Planning Permission had been granted. The public were very concerned and wanted clarity from the Department and the Minister for Health.   

Councillor Clarke asked for clarification on the Planning issues, the role of the Councillors in relation to planning for masts and Legislation surrounding 5G. 

Councillor Bree sought clarification that some of the Members who had submitted the original motion (Item 38) were now those who were submitting the amendment.  This was confirmed.

Councillor Mullaney said that they wanted what was best for the county, development in a safe manner.  The amendment had been submitted as some Members felt they were not qualified or had the necessary information to oppose the roll-out so, therefore, they wished to delay it. 

Councillor Taylor referred to Members having attended many meetings on the matter of 5G.  He confirmed that he was in no way against progress but there were a number of people who had a lot of concerns about the 5G issue.  It was, therefore, necessary to establish the facts

Councillor Mulvey referred to also having attended a number of public meetings concerns about this matter.  No one was asking to stop 5G just put it on hold until more information was obtained. 

Councillor Gilroy spoke of an application in Drumcliff for one that was turned down.  People had sent in a submission to An Bord Pleanála supporting Sligo County Council in refusing it. The Planning Department had to follow the rules and were not allowed to take health issues into account.

Councillor Healy referred to those affected in Enniscrone, Coolaney, Culleens, Sligo town and Collooney and welcomed their representatives in the public gallery.  He pointed out that seven Councillors had put down the original motion and then referred to the amended wording now before the Meeting. It was hoped that the E.S.B. would take the concerns regarding their impact on board and delay erecting any masts. 

The Chief Executive acknowledged the attendance of the Residents and welcomed them to the Chamber.  The concerns they had expressed were appreciated.  There was no desire to add to any of those concerns. He noted that Sligo had fallen behind with rural depopulation and was educating the next generation for export.  Job opportunities were needed for the next generation in Sligo where they were looking to retain the youth in the county.  The future was in the area of I.C.T. and technology.  He advised that Tubbercurry had been designated a ‘Smart Community’ and I.C.T. and 5G comprised a major component of their plans.  Further, I.T. Sligo had developed a new Masters Programme in Electronic Engineering and was engaged with major global Companies involved in the development of sensors for autonomous vehicles.  Difficulties and fears still remained and the Chief Executive said he had no desire to add to that.  He said his suggestion was to delay a decision until further information was available which would allow the Members to make an informed decision, as a decision now would determine whether Sligo progresses or regresses.

Ms. Clarke outlined the situation regarding 5G/Masts from a Planning point of view.

A vote was then called on the amendment which resulted as follows:

FOR:    Councillor Baker, Councillor Bree, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Fox, Councillor Gilroy, Councillor Healy, Councillor MacManus, Councillor MacSharry, Councillor Maguire, Councillor Mullaney, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor O’Grady and Councillor Taylor (15)

AGAINST:  Councillor Clarke and Councillor Queenan (2)

ABSENT:  Councillor Walsh (1)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the motion CARRIED.

Councillor Healy asked that a copy of the Resolution would be circulated to all local authorities and, further, that a letter would be issued to the E.S.B. highlighting that the motion had been passed.

In concluding the discussion, the Cathaoirleach again acknowledged the large attendance and commended them for their behaviour during the discussions.  They were also assured that all Councillors were treating the issue with the highest degree of seriousness. 

 

29.  &  32.  POLICY REGARDING HEDGE CUTTING:

The Cathaoirleach dealt with items 29 and 32 at this time as both dealt with the subject of hedge cutting.

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Council Executive to detail our policy regarding Hedge Cutting during the annual six-month period of March-August when such cutting is banned and the rationale for any exemptions regarding the ban.

Further, that Sligo County Council engages with Transport Infrastructure Ireland to initiate a programme of introducing wildflower verges along primary routes in the County that would have a positive impact for environmental, budgetary and aesthetic reasons.”

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

AND AGREED

“What is Sligo County Council’s approach to verge/hedge cutting between March and August and are guidelines being adhered to in this regard?”

Members, having regard to the legislation in place, discussed the necessity for hedge cutting in certain areas along roads, particularly to improve sight lines at dangerous junctions.

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services, reported as follows:

It is Sligo County Council policy to comply with the Wildlife/Heritage and Roads Acts in relation to maintenance of roadside hedges, borders and verges. The owners/occupiers of adjacent lands are generally responsible for their maintenance. They should take all reasonable steps to ensure that the hedges/trees are not a hazard or potential hazard to persons using a public road and that they do not obstruct or interfere with the safe use of the public road.  The peak growing season is during the period March to the end of August and the vegetation growth can affect road safety at many locations.  Road verges are trimmed to cut weeds/high grass during the summertime where resources are available e.g. on National Roads.  

It should be noted that Sligo County Council does not have the resources to maintain verges/face back roadside hedges on the vast majority of its 2800 km road network.  Resources are concentrated on the National/ Regional Road network and other locations where specific issues may arise.

TII can be contacted regarding the issue of wildflower verges.  It should be noted that vast areas of side slopes along National routes especially recently completed schemes are allowed to grow wild.

 

30.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IN BALLISODARE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy

Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update report regarding a pedestrian crossing in Ballisodare and when will this be installed to address health and safety issues in Ballisodare”.

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather, informed the Meeting that a design has been prepared for a pedestrian crossing in Ballysadare.  No funding is in place for this crossing and considerable public consultation will be required before the design can be finalised.  This consultation process will be carried out when resources are available after completion of funded schemes.

 

31.  PLANS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF KEELOGUES CHURCH, BALLINTRILLICK:

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor

AND AGREED

“That a report be prepared on future plans for the conservation of Keelogues Church, Ballintrillick.”

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services reported as follows:

The detailed Conservation Report prepared in 2007 by North West Archaeological Services Ltd has been made available to the Members.

There are a number of other ruined medieval churches which are currently under consideration by Sligo County Council for conservation assessment and works.  The report is 12 years old and requires updating as there have been significant changes to the structure.  Also reports are needed to allow for National Monument Consent to be secured and to allow for tendering a first phase (essential Health &Safety works and method trials) – this is likely to require an initial spend of €12-15K.  As these are not capital works, it is difficult to get grant funding to cover professional fees.

The focus for any conservation programme would be to conserve the Church ruin as found in situ – this would first entail that works to address Health and Safety risks are prioritized. Involvement of the local community, through a ‘Keelogues Conservation Project Committee’ (with insurance and a dedicated bank account) would be beneficial in terms of a core group to assist with fund raising, to access funding that is not available to the Local Authority and to clarify terms of reference and communication channels between the community and the Local Authority.

 

33.  MEETING WITH ‘SAFE CROSSING FOR COLLOONEY’ COMMITTEE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor MacManus

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council would facilitate a meeting with the ‘Safe crossing for Collooney’ Committee and that the Roads Department would work with them on putting the necessary paper work together to get funding for a footbridge over the main N4 road to address the concerns of crossing at the roundabout in Collooney.”

In response to the notice of motion, Mr. Kilfeather informed the meeting that Sligo County Council would facilitate a meeting with the 'Safe Crossing for Collooney Committee'.   Following the meeting, Sligo County Council will seek a meeting with T.I.I. (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) to discuss the concerns raised.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed members of the public in attendance.

 

ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH:

The Meeting adjourned at 12.55 p.m. and resumed at 1.20 p.m.

 

53.  FINANCIAL AUDIT FROM EASKEY COMMUNITY COUNCIL:

At the request of Councillor O’Boyle, due to the attendance of some residents from Easkey in the public gallery, the Cathaoirleach agreed to take item 53 at this time.

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

“Sligo County Council calls for an external financial audit from Easkey Community Council on all public monies received.”

Councillor O’Boyle outlined to the Meeting his reasons for listing this item on the Agenda.  In supporting the motion, Councillor Bree said that Councillors from that area had also raised this issue in the past.  Listening to discussions from a distance, he was aware that there were matters to be addressed. 

The Chief Executive informed the meeting that this was part of a long, ongoing issue in Easkey.  A mediation process had been put in place but had not worked to date.  There had been some difficulties between the groups while the mediation was going on.  In addition to the request for an independent audit, there were other bigger issues and debate going on in the area.  The Chief Executive indicated he did not have any difficulty engaging again with both sides.  He was also conscious that some divisions there were quite deep rooted at that point.

Councillor MacManus said he was aware of issues going on with that community.  There were two sides in this situation but over 90% of the people in the area wished to see Easkey Community Council open and transparent.  In an area with 600-700 Residents, meetings had an attendance of over 200 people at them. 

Councillor Clarke enquired if funding was going to continue to be allocated to Easkey Community Council Limited without consultation with local people.  What had happened over a number of years had deprived the people of Easkey of openness and transparency in their affairs.  The Chief Executive needed to get involved again in the situation and have it stopped, Councillor Clarke concluded.

Councillor Maguire referred to attending public meetings in the area which had been attended by large numbers of people.  They were outlining the concerns that existed in that community. 

With regard to the request for an external financial audit, the Chief Executive confirmed that, like any Company, they would appoint Auditors whose role would be to independently audit the accounts of the Company.

Councillor Queenan agreed with comments made and welcomed the Deputation from Easkey. He believed that the Chief Executive would have to get involved again.  There was too much at stake with very strong views on all sides. 

Councillor Baker felt that the loser was the local community. He believed there was an onus on someone within the community to try and get all sides around a table, as had happened in Riverstown.

In supporting the discussion, Councillor Mulvey said the Members were well aware of this situation, having discussed it at a Municipal District Meeting.  He agreed that if mediation could get people around a table, thrash it out and avoid Easkey being the loser in this situation.

The Chief Executive explained that the matter was brought to his attention a year ago, that it was an issue within the community but that he had put in place a mediation process to address it.  He said it was disappointing the process had broken down but he would engage again with all of the parties. He asked that Members would leave it with him for a couple of months and added that this should be dealt with at community level.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the members of the Easkey Community for attending the meeting, and hoped that a resolution would be found.

 

22.  LOCAL PROPERTY TAX (1ST NOVEMBER, 2019 TO 31ST OCTOBER, 2020):

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

“To propose that Sligo County Council vary the basic rate of Local Property Tax by an increase of 15% from 1st November, 2019 to 31st October, 2020 and that the funds accruing be ring-fenced for projects brought forward by the three Municipal Districts.”

A vote was called by the Cathaoirleach which resulted as follows:

FOR:   Councillor Baker, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Clarke, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Fox, Councillor Gilroy, Councillor MacSharry, Councillor Maguire, Councillor Mullaney, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor O’Grady, Councillor Queenan and Councillor Taylor (13)

AGAINST:  Councillor Bree, Councillor Healy, Councillor MacManus and Councillor O’Boyle (4)

ABSENT:  Councillor Walsh (1)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the resolution CARRIED.

 

34.  BOTTLE REFILL STATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council will provide bottle refill stations in our town centres.”

Councillor Clarke asked that harbours and piers would also be included where Tourists’ boats could also refill.  This would help the Tourism Industry in the area. 

The Chief Executive suggested the additional wording “in appropriate locations throughout the county”.  Councillor Maguire agreed to amend the wording of her motion to read as follows:

“That Sligo County Council will provide bottle refill stations in appropriate locations throughout the county”

This was agreed by the Cathaoirleach and Members.

The Director of Services reported that the Environment Section applied for funding in Q2 2019, under the Environmental Protection Agency’s  L.A.P.N. Fund (Local Authority Prevention Network) for the installation of 4 water refilling stations in the county i.e. Sligo town, Enniscrone, Strandhill and Rosses Point.  The funding application was approved and work is ongoing for installation of these stations.  Sligo County Council and Irish Water are currently in discussions regarding the resources required to locate and install these units as soon as possible.  The funded initiative also includes the purchase of 25 branded reusable water bottles which will be used as prizes during the promotion of the scheme on the Council’s social media platforms. 

Councillor Maguire thanked Mr. Kilfeather and welcomed the content of the report.

 

35.  MAKE WAY DAY:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council:

  • Supports the establishment of an annual national 'Make Way Day' taking place on the 26 September 2019, 
  • 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, 
  • Will annually support and promote a local #MakeWaySligo campaign as part of the wider 'Make Way Day'.”

Councillor Bree noted that this resolution had been agreed at the September 2018 Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council.  It was felt that it would be repetitive to send the same correspondence to the Taoiseach and Ministers again this year. 

Councillor Healy referred to a report compiled following some members of the public having completed a ‘wheelchair challenge’.  This was to show how people who did not have a disability felt having to negotiate their way around Sligo in a wheelchair.  This had highlighted a lot of issues and his understanding was that a report would be brought back to the County Council.  An example was given of passengers having to ring Bus Éireann in advance to access their services.  If that report was sent in, the Members could examine that and see what could be learned from it.

The Cathaoirleach and Members agreed to this suggestion rather than sending letters as referred to in the motion.

 

36.  CONCERNS WITH OVER CROWDING ON DUBLIN TO SLIGO TRAIN:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Transport asking that he would meet with a deputation from Sligo County Council regarding the ongoing concerns with the overcrowding on the Dublin to Sligo train in the interest of safety”.

 

37.  DOMESTIC WASTE COLLECTION:

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

AND AGREED

“Recognising that the privatisation of domestic waste collection has not served our communities well and that;

  • The high cost of bills is contributing to financial worry for many families;
  • The level of recycling has stagnated;
  • There has been an upsurge in illegal dumping across the County;
  • We are the only State in Europe that has a completely privatised domestic waste collection services and we are the only EU State persisting with ‘side-by-side’ competition meaning numerous operators serving the same communities, contributing to increased pollution and traffic problems.
  • All of that demands an adequate response and the time has come to look seriously at the possibility and practicality of bringing domestic waste collection back into the control of our local authorities, who managed waste services for decades.

This Council agrees:

  • To the principle of ensuring that waste collection is under the control of this Council and this is maintained as an objective of the Council;
  • To establish a working group to consider how the re-municipalisation of waste management might be advanced;
  • To contact the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment outlining this Council’s position and encouraging the Government to support Councils who wish to move towards a publicly maintained waste collection service;
  • To contact the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communication, Climate Action and Change to undertake a series of hearings that will look at a policy of re-municipalisation across the state.

In response to the points raised by Councillor MacManus, the Director of Services Mr Kilfeather noted that two Local Authorities had already established Working Groups.  Sligo County Council did not have the resources or expenditure to do so.  Mr. Kilfeather suggested that, early in the New Year, Sligo County Council would contact those two Local Authorities to find out how they were progressing and come back to the Members.

Councillor MacManus said he appreciated the comments and agreed to the suggestion, as it was not feasible without the resources.  It was hoped that there would be some discussions at Oireachtas level. 

 

39.  &  62.  BUS STOP AT BALLINAFAD:

As Items 39 and 62 both referred to Bus Éireann services in the Ballinafad area, the Cathaoirleach dealt with both items at this point in the Meeting.

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council, Bus Éireann and the National Transport Authority to work together to provide a safe bus stop along the N4 main road between Castlebaldwin and Ballinafad. At present there is only an old rusty sign at this location but first time users are not sure where it is even located. This is a busy service to Dublin city centre and Airport.  It is disgraceful and not acceptable that Bus Éireann customers have to stand in the rain along a national primary road while in Dublin and other large towns there are stops-shelters located at regular intervals.

In response to this resolution, Mr. Kilfeather reported that there are substantial demands for upgrades to bus stops throughout County Sligo and indeed nationally.  Sligo County Council Roads Department are in discussions with the National Transport Authority regarding funding of bus stop sites in County Sligo.  We will include this location on the list of sites being applied to the National Transport Authority for funding.

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Bus Éireann to extend the bus route into Ballinafad village.”

It was agreed that Sligo County Council would contact Bus Éireann in this regard.

 

40.  TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON R295 KEASH ROAD, BALLYMOTE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to provide traffic calming measures along the R295 Keash road at Ballymote. There are 4 housing developments and a HSE health care unit in this area and speeding is a major problem for local residents.”

Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that a survey of the traffic speed at this location would be carried out to check if traffic is exceeding the speed limit. Funding for such a project may then be applied for under the Non-National Road Safety Scheme Grant (particularly if accidents are occurring there).

 

41.  HOUSING ADAPTATION GRANT:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask for a report relating to the Housing Adaptation Grant for Council Housing to improve the home of those with a disability or other medical need. For that report to detail:

  1. The amount sought by Sligo County Council from the Department of Housing in 2019;
  2. The allocation received by Sligo County Council from the Department of Housing for 2019;
  3. The allocations for 2017 and 2018;
  4. To ask are only applications for Priority 1 (Terminally ill or fully/mainly dependent on carer or allow release from hospital) being accepted by Sligo County Council;
  5. If the funding received from the Department of Housing for 2019 will allow all outstanding Priority 1 applications to be funded this year”.

Mr. Gavin provided Members with a detailed report and figures in response to the queries raised in the motion.   

It was further noted that in regard to point d) all applications were accepted, regardless of priority.  Also, in response to item e) applications were always arising and being submitted.  The Council was never in a situation that it could progress all applications received.

 

42.  PARKING SIGNAGE ON FINISKLIN ROAD AND PARKING MACHINE ON PIRN MILL ROAD:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council review the Parking Signage on Finisklin Road and re-evaluate the position of the Parking Ticket Machine on Pirn Mill Road.”

Councillor O’Grady outlined the difficulties being experienced by motorists in the Finisklin Road area.  They did not have a difficulty with paying the charges involved.  The difficulty arose due to lack of signage and visibility of the existing meter on Pirn Mill Road.

Mr. Kilfeather reported that Sligo County Council would erect supplementary signage on Finisklin Road identifying the location of the nearest parking meter, located at the south end of Pirn Mill Road. “Pay By Phone Parking” information signage will also be erected. It was further added that logistics and costs would be further examined.

The Head of Finance informed the Members that there were four signs on Finisklin Road.  However, the bye-laws stopped at the entrance to Rathedmond.   In response to an earlier query regarding the costs of installing further ticket machines, Ms. Whelan advised the Meeting that a machine without credit card facilities cost €5,000 whereas a machine with credit card facilities cost €7,000. 

In concluding the discussion, Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that the signage would be erected in the near future.

 

43.  REQUEST FOR MEETING WITH MINISTER FOR HEALTH:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council requests a meeting with the Minister of Health, Simon Harris, to once again inform him of the many issues affecting the delivery of services to the people of this region. And to clearly outline to him the urgent need for Capital Funding for the ongoing development of Sligo University Hospital.”

 

44.  IMPROVEMENT WORKS TO GRAVEYARDS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to outline what improvements can or will be carried out at the following graveyards:

  1. Corkabeg, Skreen,
  2. Killoran and
  3. Kilmacshalgan old graveyard in Dromore West.

In the case of Corkabeg graveyard can the council provide safe access?”

Members were informed by Mr. Kilfeather as follows:

These graveyards are National Monuments in the ownership of Sligo County Council and are afforded protection under the National Monuments Acts.  Any proposals for works must comply with National Monuments Legislation and must be in keeping with the Departments Guidance on the Care, Conservation and Recording of Historic Graveyards. See – https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/content/files/guidance_care_conservation_recording_historic_graveyards_2011_7mb.pdf

Killoran  -  RMP No  SL025-112002 - Graveyard with Church

Kilmacshalgan  -  RMP No. SL012-036001 - Graveyard with Church

Corkabeg, Skreen  -  RMP No. SL012-025002 - Graveyard with Church

The Departments Guidance on the Care, Conservation and Recording of Historic Graveyards, makes maintenance of the graveyard onerous/time consuming. There is no funding to carry out works in these graveyards at present. The Area Engineer will examine Corkabeg graveyard to see if safe access can be provided.

 

45.  PROPERTIES RENTED BY SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL:

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

AND AGREED

“That the meeting be provided with a report, including the identity of each property rented by the Council, the purpose for which each property is used by the Council, the annual rent paid for each property, and the rent paid per square meter, the date on which the rental agreement was entered into in respect of each property and that the report also include information on the use of the Council premises in the Market Yard, Sligo.”

Mr. Gavin A/D.O.S. advised the Members that a detailed report would be circulated to them following the meeting. Councillor Bree said he welcomed the information provided earlier in the meeting in regard to works on the Market Yard premises.  It did not appear to have been looked after.  While grant aid was awaited, he requested that some maintenance work would be carried out there. 

Councillor Bree further requested that, where a report was being provided, the Members would be circulated with a copy of the report at the Meeting. 

The Chief Executive said that there was no difficulty in doing so and that the Executive would implement whatever the Procedures Committee decided.

 

46.  BREAKDOWN OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE – CRANMORE REGENERATION PROJECT (2017 AND 2018):

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

AND AGREED

“That the meeting be provided with a breakdown of income and expenditure on the Cranmore Regeneration project for the years 2017 and 2018.”

A report had been circulated to the Members at the Meeting and Councillor Bree thanked Mr. Gavin for same.  He said that made it easy and it was helpful to have had it circulated.

 

47.  REQUEST FOR CREATION OF TURNTABLE AT BEACH IN ENNISCRONE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services to look at the possibility to create a turn table at end of road to beach in Enniscrone.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the existing road to the beach allows cars/vans to turn back when the barrier is closed. It is not wide enough for Refuse lorries/ Rigid trucks to turn there. There is not enough width on the road to provide a turnaround on the road side of the barrier.

To provide a turnaround it would have to be constructed inside the barrier in a Special Area of Conservation beside the beach.  This would require excavation, stone backfill and laying DBM. This would not be economical considering the small number of trucks using this road. There is no funding available at present for this proposal.

 

48.  HOUSING AID FOR THE ELDERLY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services when will application forms be available re. Housing aid for the elderly.”

Mr. Gavin reported that the budget for grants in the current year was €1,405,298.  The allocation from the Department was €1,124,238.  The balance of €281,060 was from the Council’s resources.  Grants approved to date amounted to €1,561,504 which was €1,567,206 over the available budget.  This was based on Priority 1 applications for mobility and disability grants.  The Council tried to keep a good level of communications with approved Applicants to try to ensure that approved works were progressed and grant allocations were drawn down. 

With the allocation over-committed there was no scope to fund further grant aid.  Thus, it was not intended to process applications for Housing Aid for the Elderly.

Mr. Gavin clarified further points raised by Members in regard to funding and grant types being processed at present.  Councillor O’Grady outlined costs incurred when a patient could not be discharged from Hospital and referred to Councillor Clarke’s request that 10% of the Local Property Tax funding would be ring fenced for older persons’ grants.  Comments from the Executive that the Scheme would be reviewed were also welcomed by the Members.

 

49.  REPORT ON DEVELOPMENT PLANS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on the County Development Plan, when will the mid term review take place? When will the Sligo city review take place? and when will the review of the Enniscrone mini plan happen?”

Ms. Clarke reported that in accordance with Section 15(2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000-2019, the Planning Section was currently drafting a report on the progress achieved in securing the objectives of the Sligo County Development Plan 2017-2023.

The report would inevitably recommend that the Core Strategy of the County Development Plan should be amended to bring it in line with the provisions of the N.W.R.A.’s Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy, which was expected to be adopted in early 2020.  This would be consistent with the provisions of Section 12 of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2018 which sought to ensure that all County Development Plans would be varied or reviewed following the adoption of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies in order to ensure strategic co-ordination and consistency between national, regional and local levels.

It is envisaged that the ‘mid-term’ report will be submitted to the members at the same time as the publication of a Draft Variation of the County Development Plan relating to the legally required Core Strategy changes, in the first quarter of 2020. Following the making of the Core Strategy Variation, the Planning Section can commence the review of existing Local Area Plans with County Sligo.

The formal review process of the existing Local Area Plans (Ballymote and Enniscrone) and the preparation of a Local Area Plan for Tubbercurry would commence following completion of the Sligo and Environs Local Area Plan.

Members referred to a number of areas involved in Plans currently in place and issues they wished to raise in that regard.

Following a brief discussion, it was then

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

AND AGREED

“That a Special Meeting be held, between now and Christmas on a date to be arranged, with one item on the Agenda – To consider variations to the County Development Plan.”

The Chief Executive said that was within the Members’ rights.  The difficulty, from the Executive’s side, was the other developments that had taken place at a national and regional level that impact on the Council’s review of the Plan.  It could end up with two processes running side by side.

Councillor Clarke said it would not be a complicated meeting and whatever details were needed would be taken from the N.W.R.A. and nationally.

Ms. Clarke, Director of Services, added that the Council had to do a variation to take on board what was required from the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy.  This had taken about a year longer than the Minister had envisaged.  The draft was now out on public display with the N.W.R.A.  It was hoped that this would be adopted early in 2020.  When that would happen, it would be necessary to vary the County Development Plan which was a complicated process.  There would be further public consultation at that time. 

Councillor Clarke reiterated that a Special Meeting was required to make amendments at a mid-term review.  The National and N.W.R.A. issues could be dealt with separately.  When the Chief Executive clarified that this was a Statutory process, Councillor Clarke said the Members were not holding that up.

Following further discussions, it was agreed to list the setting of a date for a Special Meeting at an agenda item at the October Ordinary Meeting.

 

50.  UPDATE ON CONNAUGHTON ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council provide members with an update on Connaughton Road.”

Mr. Gavin informed the Members, the Council continues to endeavour to have the occupants of unauthorised caravans at Connaughton Road avail of accommodation provided by Sligo County Council and so as to provide that families may live in an acceptable standard of accommodation. Some success has been achieved. The Council cannot oblige any family to take up accommodation offers. As previously advised it is the intention to procure appropriate facilities to which the families at Connaughton Road may reallocate and reside.

The Roads and Environment Sections area also continuing to give attention to issues at this location and will maintain this focus going forward.

It was confirmed that there were plans in place to tidy up the area referred to by the Members.

 

51.  “LIGHT UP GOLD” CAMPAIGN:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council will partake in the ‘Light it Up Gold” campaign organised by The Childhood Cancer Foundation to raise awareness of childhood cancers.”

 

52.  FUNDING FOR ANIMAL WELFARE SHELTERS:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Department of Agriculture to divert the €16 million funding for the greyhound industry and divert it to animal welfare shelters and a neutering program for feral cats.”

 

LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH:

As the Cathaoirleach had a prior engagement, the Leas-Cathaoirleach, Councillor Gino O’Boyle, took the Chair at 3.50 p.m.

 

54.  SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION – BUNDUFF LOUGH TO MULLAGHMORE:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to carry out an Environmental Assessment on the Special Area of Conservation from Bunduff Lough to Mullaghmore.

For Generations local landowners cleared the sand deposited by tidal activity. This work was continued by Sligo County Council every November for many years to protect the adjoining SAC before it was ever called an SAC. This stopped about the time that the SAC Status was assigned to this area. By stopping the annual maintenance, the SAC may in fact be damaged as the rising water level has led to the departure of many of the Swans who can no longer feed from the bottom of the lake.

Roads such as L-7109-0 and the Creevykeel to Mullaghmoe Road L3104 are subject to Annual Flooding resulting in additional road repair costs. Dwellings and Lands are also flooded on an annual basis.

Drainage Culverts on the N15 have been cleared and this now speeds up the flow of water from East of the N15 to Bunduff Lake and the level of the lake is now rising earlier than in previous years. Areas that previously flooded from November to February are this year flooding in August.

For these reasons it is imperative that the Environmental Assessment is carried out in September and that Flood avoidance measures are carried out before the end of October. Failure to do so will result in increased costs on Sligo County Council, Flooding of private Property and loss of Habitat to the Swan Population.”

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather, informed the Members that the Special Area of Conservation status of Bunduff Lake would require an Environmental Assessment to be undertaken to inform any programme of works that might be considered. This is a sensitive site and any Environmental Assessment would likely involve an Ecological Impact Assessment, a Natura Impact Statement and screening for EIA. It would probably also be very useful to get a hydrology study done for the site to understand how it is flooding, what the pressure points are and whether initial and maintenance dredging of the outlet is the most sustainable solution in the long term.   An Environmental Assessment would inform as to the type of works that might be possible and any issues in progressing such works. This is not a Project that can be completed in the short term.

 

60.  RE-OPENING OF ROAD NUMBER L1101-70 AT GLEN:

Councillor Mullaney asked that this item would be dealt with at an earlier time in the Meeting and the Cathaoirleach consented to same.

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“To call on the Director of Services for Infrastructure to give a progress report on the reopening of Road No L1101-70 at Glen.”

Mr. Kilfeather replied that a design of the repair work required is under way with the advice of geotechnical consultants. A budget will have to be identified to carry out repair works. Design and contract documents can be complete in October with the repair work to commence in November subject to funding being identified. Construction of the project will take approximately four weeks to complete. The road will have to be kept closed until the repairs are completed.

 

55.  GRASS CUTTING IN LOCAL AUTHORITY ESTATES:

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council

  • How many Local Authority Estates are in each of the three electoral areas?
  • How many Houses are in Local Authority Estates in Each of the Three Electoral areas?
  • How many of the Estates in Each area have the Communal Areas Grass cut by the Parks Department of Sligo County Council?

and to assign the cutting of Grass in all Local Authority Estates to the Parks Department of Sligo County Council”

Mr. Gavin, A/D.O.S. provided Members provided the Members with a report containing the following details:

It is difficult to provide precise figures for estates and houses based on the Municipal District boundaries.  The following are the figures as accurate as they can be compiled:

  • Sligo-Strandhill  1002 houses across 48 estates
  • Sligo-Drumcliffe   222 houses over 15 estates and
  • Ballymote-Tubbercurry  468 houses over 34 estates.

The Housing Section has a small budget which is divided amongst estates with Residents Associations to assist with estate maintenance costs.  The scheme is advertised and open to applications annually.

The Parks Department cuts grass in some estates and open spaces only in the Sligo City area.  Outside of Sligo City they do not cut grass in any estates.

A very substantial budget would have to be set aside in the Council’s Estimates if grass cutting of open spaces in Local Authority Estates county wide was to be carried out by the Parks Section of Sligo County Council.  Such an arrangement would be beyond the existing resources of the Parks Department.  Any spreading of the existing grass cutting budget to cover all areas would simply lead to a less than satisfactory service being delivered to all locations.

 

56.  TIMEFRAME FOR DEVELOPMENT OF CONNOLLY PARK ESTATE, TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Service for an update on the time frame for development of the Connolly Park Estate, Tubbercurry.”

Mr. Gavin informed the Meeting that the Council have, in the past week, made a further submission to the Department to fund the building of 10 units at Connolly Park.  This was a Stage 3 submission – the approval process comprises of four stages.  We must now await the Department’s response.  Depending on the response, and trusting favourable consideration at Departmental level, we would hope to commence construction in early 2020 with an estimated construction period of circa 12 months.

It is also the intention to work up a further scheme of 10 units if the current scheme receives approval and commences on site.  Any further scheme will be dependent on Departmental support and on the demand for social housing in Tubbercurry.

 

57.  PROVISION OF DISABLED CAR PARKING SPACES ON MAIN STREET, TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide one or two disabled car parking spaces on Main Street, Tubbercurry.”

The Tubbercurry Area Engineer will investigate the possibility of providing one disabled car parking space on Main Street, Mr. Kilfeather informed the Meeting.

 

58.  INSTALLATION OF BRING BANK FACILITY FOR CARRAROE AREA:

The following notice of motion, as listed by Councillor Walsh, was deferred to the October Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“To ask Sligo County Council to engage with local community in Carraroe and expedite the installation of a Bring Bank Facility for the area.”

 

59.  WATER ECO FILLING STATIONS:

The following notice of motion, as listed by Councillor Walsh, was also deferred to the October Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide water eco filling stations at locations in Sligo town area and engage with other stakeholders about the provision of same in our recreational areas in a bid to cut down on single plastic use.”

 

61.  HOME HELP SERVICE:

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

AND AGREED

"Concerned with the crisis in the Home Help service in Sligo and noting that applicants who are approved for the service must now wait a minimum of 10 months for the service to be provided; this meeting resolves that a letter be sent from the Council to the Taoiseach and to each member of the Cabinet, highlighting the crisis and calling on the Government to provide the resources to fund this necessary and essential service."

 

63.  ‘REBUILDING IRELAND’ LOANS:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services for Housing for a report following concerns having been raised that the Rebuilding Ireland loans process leaves it more difficult for self employed persons and people on contracts.”

Mr. Gavin provided the Members with details, as requested, and said that he would circulate a copy following the Meeting.  Among the details furnished was information that the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan is a mortgage provided to First Time Buyers (Non-Registered Owners of Residential Property) through local authorities.  It is for the construction or purchase of new and second-hand homes including those bought on the open market and under the Tenant Purchase Scheme.  The Rebuilding Ireland Home Loans are operated in line with the Credit Policy 2018 made under the Housing (Rebuilding Ireland Home Loans) Regulations 2018 (S.I. no. 25 of 2018).  

It is targeted at credit worthy low to middle income first time buyers.  It provides greater affordability and certainty in terms of repayments for first time buyers, giving them greater access to properties available to purchase.

The criteria for three groups, i.e. PAYE Applicants, Self-employed Applicants and Applicants in Contract Employment were also set out in the report.

 

64.  UPDATE ON N16 ROUTE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide an update in relation the (NI6) Sligo to County Boundary and to outline plans for same.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported that following detailed appraisal, which included four public consultations, a Preferred Route was selected for the N16 between Sligo and the County Boundary with Leitrim, in June 2017. This enabled the Sligo TII Project Team to establish and develop an initial minor scheme for improvement. This Scheme, which is 2.5km in length, occurs between the townlands of Drumkilsellagh and Lugnagall, predominately in the townland of Lugatober.

An Bord Pleanála gave Planning Approval the Scheme (EIAR & NIS) in August 2019, and Sligo County Council confirmed the CPO for the Scheme also in August 2019.  Statutory Notices will be published and sent to landowners in the coming weeks. Approval has been sought from TII to advance the detailed design and preparation of Construction Contract documents, and for the purchase of land. Subject to this approval and funding thereof, Sligo County Council will progress the Scheme, with a view to having the Contract Documents completed by mid-2020.

 

65.  PROPOSED WORKS AT CARRICKNAGAT BRIDGE:

The following motion, as submitted by Councillor T. Walsh, was deferred to the October Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update in relation to proposed works at Carricknagat Bridge between Collooney and Ballisodare and outline timeline for same.”

 

66.  CONTROL OF JAPANESE KNOTWEED:

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on what action has been taken or will be taken to control Japanese Knotweed and how long the process will take to remove it permanently and what plans are in place to log the presence of this invasive species on each road type in order to plan to reduce the damage done to these roads and private property along these roads.

  • National Primary Routes
  • Secondary Roads
  • Category Three Roads”

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services reported that Sligo County Council and T.I.I. are currently engaged in a long-term treatment plan to control Japenese Knotweed on National Road verges.   Initial works commenced in 2016 with 11 priority counties being targeted for a rolling three to four year treatment programme with Sligo being one of the initial counties to engage with TII for funding and support.

Sligo County Council identified and mapped 95 sites along National Roads where Japanese Knotweed was present and treatment was initiated in 2016. Signage was erected on each site to identify the outbreaks and also to prevent accidental incursions during the hedgecutting season. We also identified landowners adjacent to the infected sites. These were contacted and requested to treat their properties abutting the treated sites along the National primary routes. This is the final year of the treatment programme on the National Primary roads in Sligo. Japanese Knotweed at these sites has been largely eliminated.  However Sligo County Council will continue to monitor these sites.

Regional routes:

Sligo County Council in 2018 identified, mapped and treated 42 sites on the 240 km regional road network. This treatment is being continued in 2019 and will require to be continued for a number of years to ensure eradication. There is a budget of €20,000 for these works.

Local roads:

There currently is not a sufficient budget for treating Japanese Knotweed on Sligo County Council 2400 km network of Local roads. In instances where outbreaks are being reported, we are erecting warning signage to alert people as to the presence of Japanese Knotweed and to prevent hedgecutting activities in the area.

All outbreaks of Japanese Knotweed that have been reported to Sligo County Council are uploaded on the following website: 

http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/

Eradicating Japanese knotweed on private property is a matter for the property owner.

 

67.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Lambert (former Council Employee) on the death of her mother, Mary.

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Patricia Guckian (Finance Section) on the death of her mother, Maureen Hamilton.

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Declan Kevany (Waterworks Caretaker) and family on the death of his father, Michael John.

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Taaffe of Knockadoo, Coolaney on the death of her sister, Margaret Ann Hunt.

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Noeleen Casserly and family of Ballygawley on the death of her husband, Oliver.

 

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the Clancy Family of Killery, Ballintogher on the death of their brother, Fintan.

68.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Dr. Julian Flynn of Woodfield, Ballymote on his retirement as a Doctor in the Ballymote South Sligo Region after serving 43 years unbroken service.  Dr. Flynn gave tremendous service and care to his Patients over 43 years”.

 

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Sarah Kiernan, Barnes, Grange on her inclusion in the Ireland Under 17 Ladies Soccer Team for the game against Belgium”.

 

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Lucy Conlon-Oates of Cloondara, Ballisodare on becoming European Champion for Kickboxing.

 

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

AND RESOLVED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Lucy Conlon-Oates of Cloondara, Ballisodare on winning Gold at the European Kickboxing Championships”.

 

69.  CONFERENCES/TRAINING:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

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

 

70.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES/TRAINING:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

71.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members noted the items of correspondence received.

 

72.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

Councillor Clarke referred to problems with sewerage on Easkey Streets.  Mr. Kilfeather outlined the  information from Irish Water.

 

73.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Councillor O’Grady referred to details furnished to the Meeting earlier re. works at Sligo University Hospital and regretted to note that there was no mention of the provision of a Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory for Sligo.

 

END OF MEETING:

The business of the meeting concluded at 4.30 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 02/09/2019