Minutes 2020

Minutes of May Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 11th May, 2020 at 10.00 a.m. in The Knocknarea Arena, I.T. Sligo, Ballinode, Sligo.

COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

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

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. John Reilly, Head of Enterprise
Mr. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
Mr. Jimmy O’Brien, I.S. Project Leader
Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
Ms. Clodagh Quinn, Staff Officer
Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor MacSharry, presided.

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor D. Mulvey.

ADJOURNMENT AS A MARK OF RESPECT TO THE LATE JOHN MULVEY, BROTHER OF COUNCILLOR DARA MULVEY

AND

FORMER MAYOR OF SLIGO AND SLIGO CORPORATION MEMBER, COUNCILLOR MARTIN F. KEAVENEY:

At the commencement of the Meeting, it was

Proposed by Cathaoirleach Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

“That the meeting would stand adjourned for a short period as a mark of respect to former Mayor, the late Martin Keaveney, and the late John Mulvey, brother of Councillor Dara Mulvey

All Members present asked to be associated with the sympathies being conveyed to Councillor Mulvey and his family on the loss of their brother John, and to John’s wife Lorraine and daughters Sinéad and Melissa.

The Cathaoirleach paid tribute to former Mayor Martin Keaveney. ‘Martin was at the heart of the political and business community in Sligo for many years. He had the distinction of serving as Mayor in 1973, and he carried out his duties with great pride and professionalism.

He was one of our most successful and enterprising local businessman, devoting almost sixty years to the toolmaking and plastics business.

Martin had many outstanding highlights in his business career – his was the first Irish toolmaking company to export to the U.S and Africa, and was the first person from the West of Ireland to win the national Jacob’s Award for ‘Outstanding Young Man the Year’

Martin would go on to fulfil this early potential throughout his life, and was elected to Sligo Corporation on his first attempt. He was highly regarded across the political spectrum as an honourable and decent gentleman, a man of his word who adhered to the highest standards in his public life.’

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

AND AGREED

“That the meeting would stand adjourned for a short period as a mark of respect to former Mayor of Sligo, the late Martin F. Keaveney.”

Councillors expressed their sympathies to the Keaveney family on the loss of their father, Martin Councillor Bree had worked with him during his time on Sligo Corporation and noted that he had also been a leading member of the business community in Sligo.

The adjournment was unanimously agreed and the meeting resumed at 10.15 a.m.

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

Mr. Gavin informed the meeting of the various safety processes and procedures that had to be followed in order to hold the meeting during the current pandemic. He advised Members that he had been appointed Compliance Officer for the meeting, as required under Health & Safety protocols

When the meeting resumed, the Cathaoirleach welcomed Deputies Marc MacSharry, Frank Feighan and Marian Harkin to the meeting and, also, M.E.P. Chris MacManus.

The Cathaoirleach then extended his thanks to the management and staff of I.T. Sligo, Sligo County Council and AVA staff who had worked over the previous week to allow the meeting to take place. He outlined the issues facing communities and Sligo County Council during the Covid emergency and commended the Chief Executive and his team for their prompt and decisive response to the crisis.

The meeting was informed by the Cathaoirleach that one of the emergency measures announced by the Government, on Friday, 27^th March, had been the establishment of Covid Community Support Forums throughout the country, led and co-ordinated by Local Authorities and involving key local Agencies and community groups.

The first meeting of the Covid Community Forum in Sligo had taken place on Sunday 29^th March. The Cathaoirleach said that, as a member of the forum, he had seen at first hand the spirit and enthusiasm driving its members with each of them bringing their particular expertise and experience to it. As a result, it had been possible to reach out and help, in very practical ways, the most vulnerable and isolated members of the community.

One of the initiatives introduced to maintain essential contact had been the Covid Community Support Helpline. This facility was also in place within a matter of days of the Government announcement and was continuing to operate, on a seven days a week basis, providing a vital line of contact where most needed.

The meeting was advised that the Chief Executive and Management Team would be presenting a detailed overview of Sligo County Council’s activities so far over the course of the Covid emergency. He wished to place on record his appreciation for the outstanding work involved.

The Cathaoirleach highlighted the exemplary work carried out by the frontline staff of doctors, nurses, care assistants and cleaning staff and said their courage and commitment in the face of enormous challenges had been humbling and inspirational.

These were brothers, sisters, extended family, neighbours and friends. They were the unassuming heroes in every community. As a Council, the Cathaoirleach wished to convey their heartfelt gratitude and he asked that all present would stand for a minute’s applause as that token of appreciation to each and every one of them.

PAYMENT DUE TO NURSES OF IRELAND:

Councillor O’Grady said she wished to be associated with the comments made and noted the quick responses to issues as they had arisen. As a former nurse, she welcomed the applause for Health Workers. The World Health Organisation had designated 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. Pressure on those professions had never been greater. It was now time that the Nursing staff were respected and fairly recognised for the enormous contribution they made every day. There was an unacceptable delay in making payments due to nursing staff. Councillor O’Grady said she wished to acknowledge and thank the Hospital staff at all levels who were dedicated to the care of the sick and their families. They had shown everyone who the real celebrities are.

All Councillors present extended their thanks to all frontline staff involved in assisting communities at this time. Many experiences were recounted and those involved commended.

Following this discussion, Councillor O’Grady thanked the Cathaoirleach for allowing her to raise this matter and it was then

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

AND AGREED

“To write to the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, requesting that the back payment due to the Nurses of Ireland be paid without further delay.”

1. MINUTES OF AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETING

AND

AUDIT COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME 2020:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Audit Committee Meeting held on 17^th December, 2019.”

and

“To note Audit Committee Work Programme 2020.”

2. MINUTES OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP MEETINGS HELD ON 28TH FEBRUARY AND 20TH MARCH, 2020:

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

AND AGREED

“To note minutes of Corporate Policy Group meetings held on

28^th February, 2020 and
20^th March, 2020.”

Councillor Bree sought clarification of an item in the minutes of 28th February in relation to proposals for the car park area on Connaughton Road.

The Chief Executive said that he had a received number of requests for works at this area. One of those had been to gift it to a Voluntary Body, another was a request for Social Housing a third was for car parking. This matter would be referred to again during the upcoming presentation as further proposals were being drawn up for its use.

3. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 2ND MARCH, 2020:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 2^nd March, 2020.”

4. MINUTES OF ADJOURNED ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 9TH MARCH, 2020:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 9^th March, 2020.”

5. MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 1ST MAY, 2020:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Special Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 1^st May, 2020.”

6. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT KILFREE, GURTEEN:

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 property at Kilfree, Gurteen to Ms. Mary O’Connor.”

7. SECTION 183 OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT ARDNAGLASS, BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of property (Cottage no. 1280) at Ardnaglass, Ballymote, Co. Sligo to Mr. Bartholomew McGrath.”

8. CONSTRUCTION OF DWELLING HOUSE AT CROWAGH TD., DROMORE WEST:

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

AND AGREED

“To proceed with the proposed development to construct a single rural dwelling house at Crowagh Td, Dromore West, Co. Sligo together with all associated site development works in accordance with the Chief Executive’s Report and pursuant to Sections 179(3) and 179(4) of Part XI of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended).”

9. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 28, GORT NA SÍ, COOLANEY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 28 Gort na Sí, Coolaney, Co. Sligo to Ms. Jane Feely.”

10. SECTION 183 – LEASING OF PROPERTY AT 11, OWENMORE DRIVE, COLLOONEY:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the proposed lease of house and lands at 11 Owenmore Drive, Collooney, Co. Sligo to the H.S.E.

11. TAKING IN CHARGE OF ESTATE – “BALLINPHULL RISE”, CLIFFONEY:

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

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

12. CAPITAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME – ACQUISITION OF APARTMENT 3C, BLOCK C – CITY GATE, MAILCOACH ROAD, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance to Focus Housing Association Company Limited by Guarantee in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme for the acquisition of Apartment 3 C, Block C, City Gate, Mailcoach Road, Sligo.”

13. CO-OPTION OF MEMBER TO VACANT SEAT ARISING FROM THE RESIGNATION OF COUNCILLOR CHRIS MACMANUS:

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that the following item was being deferred to the Agenda of the June Ordinary Meeting:

“Co-option of Member to vacant seat arising from the resignation of Councillor Chris MacManus.”

14. ELECTION OF A REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GOVERNING BODY OF N.U.I.G.

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

AND AGREED

“To elect Councillor Dónal Gilroy to the Governing Body of the National University of Ireland, Galway for the remainder of the period of office of the existing Údarás na hOllscoile.”

15. APPROVAL OF ALLOCATIONS UNDER THE COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY GRANTS SCHEME, 2020:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve allocations under the Community & Voluntary Grants Scheme 2020.”

Councillor Walsh referred to many events having to be either rescheduled or cancelled. However, the organisers had expenditure incurred while planning those events e.g. on advertising, etc. He asked that this would be looked at in a positive manner. If festivals and events were cancelled and funding was not fully availed of, clarification was sought as to whether applications could be reopened at the end of the year. A further query was raised by Councillor Walsh as to whether this funding scheme could even be extended into quarter one of 2021.

Councillor Queenan asked that any funding not availed of would be retained in the scheme and not diverted to the Council’s finances. He asked that a report would be brought before the Members at the October Meeting.

The Chief Executive agreed that a report could be brought to that meeting. He also referred to the upcoming financial report at the meeting where the very serious implications of Covid-19 would be evident. The Council’s Executive was aware of the issue of costs that organisers had incurred on events that were not now going ahead. Ms. Clarke, Director of Services, agreed and said they would like to keep the terms open for those that might take place later in the year and confirmed that a report could be brought before the October meeting.

16. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2019:

Ms. Whelan drew the Members’ attention to items contained in the report furnished with the agenda.

The Annual Financial Statement for 2019 showed a surplus of €1,017,089 income over expenditure within the revenue account which, along with the 2015 to 2018 surpluses, brought a total surplus of approx €8.2m for the 5 years of the financial plan period.

The additional €600,000 Local Government Fund allocation notified on the 23^rd December 2019 along with the principal repayment on the Revenue Loan for 2019 and some additional rates entry Income are the significant figures that contribute to the final surplus for 2019 of over €1m. The additional surplus was the net outturn on all activities in the Revenue account for the year. The Surplus for 2019 and cumulative from 2015 for the period of the Financial Plan was approximately €8.2m and this had reduced the cumulative deficit to €18.48m from €26.6m.

The 2019 Capital Account was showing significantly increased activity of approximately €90m from the works in Roads and Housing Contracts in particular. This was the biggest Capital Spend in many, many years for the Council. The rates collection percentage for 2019 was 82% which was an increase of 1% from 81% in 2018 while, at the same time, having to deal with write-offs in relation to reductions from the appeals tribunals. Rents were up 2% being 80% and Loans had improved further to 64%, an increase of 18% since 2014. Arrears were continually being dealt with. The rates provision for Bad Debts at the end of 2019 remained at 74% which was an adequate provision.

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To note the Annual Financial Statement 2019.”

17. AUTHORISATION OF OVER-EXPENDITURE:

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

AND AGREED

“To authorise over expenditure of €2,394,690 reported in the 2019 Annual Financial Statement in accordance with section 104(7) of the Local Government Act 2001.”

18. PRESENTATION ON SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S ACTIONS DURING COVID-19 EMERGENCY:

As the Cathaoirleach had referred to earlier, the Chief Executive and Management Team of Sligo County Council had prepared a detailed presentation under this item.

The Chief Executive introduced the presentation by saying it would highlight the progress of recent years, set against the restrictions now being imposed as part of the ‘new normal’ during the Covid-19 emergency;

The unprecedented investment in County Sligo had positioned Sligo to capitalise on its status as designated centre for economic growth under the National Planning Framework. This transformation followed a period when Sligo suffered from issues of peripherality, depopulation, an absence of Foreign Direct Investment and infrastructural deficits.

The range and scope of projects being developed in the urban and rural areas in recent years were destined to be the catalyst for the continuing development of the county and the region.

There were major projects in the pipeline such as the Yeats Trail, with an investment of €670,000. Strandhill Surf Centre of Excellence, €1.9m, Coolaney Mountain Bike Trail, €6.2m, O ‘Connell Street enhancement, €3m - each hugely significant from an economic, cultural and tourism perspective. The transformation of our road network was in progress with major contracts underway, including the N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin, Western Distributor Road, N4/N15 junction.

The acquisition of lands at Ardaghowen provided the potential for ambitious collaboration with Sligo IT and St Angela’s College.

Proposals for the development of Sligo into a ‘smart city’ was even more relevant in the current climate, as the restrictions imposed by Covid would oblige local authorities to re-appraise they way they conducted their business. He had previously advised Members that our digital strategy would place Sligo as the forefront of digital transition. The development of digital hubs and smart city technologies would now be part of the public discourse, and at local level this would mean realising energy efficient neighbourhoods, smart transport, and development of infrastructure which would facilitate the ongoing improvement of our city and its environs.

The Chief Executive noted that it was scarcely credible that he had presented a detailed report on Sligo’s development proposals to the Corporate Policy Group in February, updating Members on progress and indicative timescales for the various projects. Within a matter of weeks our focus has been diverted to responding to the Covid emergency and ensuring essential services are maintained for our communities.

The Chief Executive and Management Team provided an overview of their activities in recent weeks in responding to the Covid emergency:

Covid-19 Impacts:
- Staff welfare and Business continuity
- Financial impact.
- Information Communication Technology.
- Essential services and Regional co-ordination.
- Arts, Culture and the Community.
- E.O. initiatives.
Covid-19: The Future.

Detailed information and updates were then provided by the Chief Executive and the Management team, accompanied by images through slides on:

Council Finances – Cumulative deficit 2007-2019.
R.D.F. and R.R.D.F. – Population distribution.
R.D.F. – Yeats Trail
Strandhill Surf Centre of Excellence.
Mountain Bike Centre
R.D.F. 2020 Collooney and Ballymote.
R.D.F. 2020 Rosses Point and Strandhill.
D.T. application – Enniscrone.
R.D.F. – O’Connell Street, Sligo.
Stephen Street Cultural Plaza.
Connaughton Road, Sligo.
Cranmore Regeneration.
Wine Street Strategic Land Portfolio.
Council lands at Ardaghowen and Ballinode.
N15 upgrade.
Western Distributor route.
N4 route.
Economic development.
Embankment Building.
Sligo Economic Forum.
Covid-19 Sligo.
Staff welfare and business continuity.
Housing
Cranmore Community Centre.
Civil Defence.
Financial impact.
Pay and display parking income 2018-2020.
Commercial Rate collection 2019-2020.
Information Community Technology.
- Video Conferences.
- Information Technology.
- Website.
- Facebook.
- Social media/Twitter.
Communications
- Public
- Members
Essential Services and Regional co-ordination.
Graveyard services.
Sligo road signs.
Restricted access.
Lough Talt.
Arts, Culture and Community.
Sligo Covid-19 Community Response Forum.
Extraordinary Community response.
L.E.O. initiatives
- Unemployment/Wage subsidy.
- Digital Futures Manufacturing Centre.
Covid-19 – The Future.
Gradual reopening of Services post-Covid.
Staff Training.
Standard Operating Procedures.
Future Council Meetings.
Sligo – Smart City/County location.
Rebooting the Economy.
Sligo Urban Core – re-imagine the Urban Core, Urban/Rural balance (Impact of remote working),
Climate Change.
Emissions Trading Scheme – Cranmore, Sligo.
National Public lighting Project.
Solar PV Panels.
RE-evaluation of Public –v- Private Services.
Sligo County Council Staff

The Cathaoirleach thanked the Chief Executive and Management Team for the presentation, which had provided a thorough and informative overview of the Council’s prompt and professional response to the Covid emergency. Members commended in particular the actions in relation to the Council’s engagement with the Traveller Community, the work of County Sligo Community Forum and the P.P.N., Sligo Civil Defence and Sligo Leader Partnership. The supports provided by the Local Enterprise Office were also welcomed.

Members discussed the various challenges facing the Council, including in the area of finance, and expressed the hope that the Government would compensate local authorities for the loss of commercial rates and other income streams. The Management Team responded to queries from Members in relation to Housing grants, roads programme and capital schemes, parking and issues in relation to the timelines for the planning process.

19. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS 2020:

The Chief Executive confirmed that he had spoken with the President of I.T. Sligo and he understood that the venue would be available for a Council meeting on Monday, 15^th June. It was suggested that both the Ordinary Meeting and the Annual General Meeting would both take place on the same date.

It was then Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

“To hold the the June Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council at 10.00 a.m. and the Annual General Meeting at 3.00 p.m. on Monday, 15^th June, 2020 in the Knocknarea Arena at I. T. Sligo.”

A discussion followed regarding a venue for the A.G.M.s for the Municipal Districts.

It was Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That, once the venues have been assessed, the Cathaoirleach will decide on the location(s) for the Annual General Meetings of each Municipal District and inform the Members.”

Having regard to the timeframe to hold those meetings, it was then

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

AND AGREED

“To hold the Annual General Meetings of the Municipal Districts on Friday, 19^th June. The times and venues for same to be notified to the Members.”

The Chief Executive noted that confirmation had yet to be received that the Knocknarea Arena would be available for Sligo County Council’s use on 15^th June. The Members would be informed of the venues and times for each meeting.

20. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR MARCH/APRIL 2020:

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for March/April, 2020.”

21. COMPENSATION FOR PYRITE DEFECTS IN HOUSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

At the request of Councillor Queenan, the following motion was deferred to the agenda of the June Ordinary Meeting

“To call on the Minister for Environment to include houses in County Sligo for compensation regarding pyrite defects in their property.”

22. UPDATE ON CYCLING INFRASTRUCTURE IN SLIGO CITY AND COUNTY:

The Cathaoirleach consented to a request by Councillor Casserly to defer the following motion to the Agenda of the June Ordinary Meeting

“To ask for an update on the Cycling Infrastructure currently being developed in tandem with the road construction projects currently underway in Sligo City and County.”

23. REVIVAL OF RURAL SLIGO:

At the request of Councillor Clarke, the following motion was deferred to the Agenda of the June Ordinary Meeting

“Given that the population of Ireland in 1980 was 3.4 million and 40 years on in 2020 the population has grown by 1.5 million to 4.9 million and the greatest achievement of senior state Planners and County Development Plans policies, is decline and the deprivation of rural Ireland, and now in the 2020-2040 plan rural once off house planning will only be granted in exceptional circumstances. This policy will ensure; Schools, Shops, Sport Clubs, Post Offices and our rural cultural-heritage way of life will continue to disappear in Rural Ireland.

I call on the Executive and Elected Members to create goodwill positive discrimination to revive rural Sligo.”

24. ONLINE GAMBLING:

At the request of Councillor Casserly, the Cathaoirleach agreed to defer the following motion to the agenda of the June Ordinary Meeting

“To write to Minister Staunton to address the serious issue of online gambling. Given the major societal issues coming from gambling particularly the ease of access through mobile phone and online platforms to gambling 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, that credit cards be banned for use for online gambling accounts. And that this motion be shared with all other local authorities in the country.”

25. REDUCTION OF V.A.T. RATE IN THE TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY SECTOR:

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

“To call on the Minister for Finance to reduce the V.A.T. rate in the Tourism and Hospitality sector from 13.5% to 9% in an effort to support and stimulate the industry during this difficult period.”

Members expressed their broad support for the proposal as outlined in the motion. However, a number of Members felt it did not go far enough and could not support this level of reduction. It was suggested that the reduction should be to a zero V.A.T. rate.

Following the discussion, the Cathaoirleach said it was his understanding that it was illegal to have a zero V.A.T. rate and asked the proposer and seconder if they were prepared to amend the motion to substitute “9%” with “to the lowest V.A.T. rate possible”. The group of Members who had listed this item on the Agenda agreed to this proposal.

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister for Finance to reduce the V.A.T. rate in the Tourism and Hospitality sector from 13.5% to the lowest V.A.T. rate possible in an effort to support and stimulate the industry during this difficult period.”

26. GATHERING EVENT AS A MARK OF GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION TO FRONTLINE STAFF:

The Cathaoirleach agreed to defer the following item, as listed by Councillors T. Walsh, G. Mullaney, M. Connolly, T. Fox, S. Maguire and D. Mulvey, to the June Ordinary Meeting agenda:

“To call on Sligo County Council to hold an ‘open call’ gathering event, post-covid, to mark our gratitude and to show our appreciation to frontline staff (including medical, community response, courier/haulage, postal, retail and social work) for the work they have done on our behalf over this pandemic.”

27. ILLEGAL DUMPING IN COUNTY SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to introduce an initiative, in collaboration with Coillte and other stakeholders such as community development groups and tidy towns groups in an effort to tackle illegal dumping across Sligo, particularly in light of the recent increases which we have seen take place over the recent pandemic.

To outline how the L.A. are dealing with the increases and if they have applied for funding from the €1 million Anti-Dumping initiative at Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment to help with enforcement operations, Waste removal or installation of C.C.T.V. or other monitoring and surveillance equipment will be among the activities supported with funds.”

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services responded to the motion and informed the Members of ongoing works in this area. A copy of the detailed report would be furnished to the Members but it was noted that, on 10th March, 2020, the Department had announced funding of €3 million to be made available to Local Authorities through the WERLAs to support the 2020 Anti Dumping Initiative (ADI)

Since the introduction of the ADI in 2017, funding of €6.3 million had been provided which had supported over 700 projects across all 31 Local Authorities and removed 10,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste. Over the past number of weeks the country had faced an unprecedented challenge, one of which had brought an increase of illegal dumping activity throughout the country. In response to this, the Department was ring-fencing €1 million of the 2020 ADI allocation to combat illegal dumping activities associated with these challenging times.

Measures could include the removal of waste from affected areas, the installation of CCTV or other monitoring and surveillance equipment and the continued roll-out of the bye-laws requiring households to demonstrate how they were managing their domestic waste. A national and local anti-dumping radio campaign run through the Regional Office and mywaste.ie had recently commenced and Local Authorities had completed their applications for this year’s ADI funding initiative.

Sligo has requested funding of €100k towards 5 specific projects for 2020 and details were set out.

Following a discussion about ongoing difficulties in the county with illegal dumping, Councillor O’Boyle referred to a previous motion he had listed relating to waste collection being brought back into public ownership. The Chief Executive replied that there were a number of issues at a national level that meant the matter was not advanced.

In response to a query from Councillor Healy, Mr. Kilfeather confirmed that a site at Cliffoney was being investigated at that time.

In relation to clothes banks, the Director of Services said that there was now a difficulty with those as the market had completely collapsed as there was no movement. This may be one of the reasons why the banks were not being emptied as often. There was now a surplus of clothes and contractors had been contacted in this regard.

28. FUNDING FOR LOCAL AUTHORITIES:

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

AND AGREED

“I propose that local authorities be funded by the Government, in order to maintain the services to make good the rates shortfall in a similar manner in which Government have supported SMEs with regard to Covid payments. Can this be shared with other local authorities throughout the country.”

29. FUNDING FOR TIDY TOWNS COMMITTEES

&

30. COMPLETION OF 2020 ROADS PROGRAMME:

As Councillor Queenan was not present at this time, the Cathaoirleach agreed to defer items 29 and 30 to the Agenda of the June Ordinary Meeting:

29) “Sadly there will not be a national Tidy Towns Competition this year. However, I propose that we still allocate funding to all Tidy Towns groups in the county.”

30) “Can the Director of Services confirm that the Roads Programme that was passed at the March meeting remains in place and that every effort will be made to have it completed this year.”

31. INTRODUCTION OF A ONE-TIER HEALTHCARE SYSTEM:

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

AND AGREED

“Recognising the failure and the inequality of Ireland’s two-tier health system, this Council calls on the incoming government to introduce a universal one-tier healthcare system which will guarantee access to medical care on the basis of medical need, not income.”

32. PROVISION OF PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON CALTRAGH ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“That a pedestrian crossing be provided on Caltragh Road (near the Bus Stop) so as to safeguard pedestrians walking to and from Circular Road to Summerhill College or the offices of the Department of Social Protection.”

Councillor O’Grady, Councillor Walsh and Councillor Fox also wished to be associated with this proposal.

Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Sligo Area Office and Road Design Department will examine the location in question with a view to determining what pedestrian crossing facilities might be appropriate. Any facilities deemed appropriate can be included for funding in future Roads Programmes.

33. CONSTRUCTION OF FOOTPATH ON R292 LINKING STRANDHILL VILLAGE WITH DORRINS STRAND AND THE QUEEN MEAVE TRAIL:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask what progress, if any, has been made to identify possible grant aid/funding sources to allow the Council to construct a pedestrian footpath or footpaths on the R292 linking Strandhill village with the Dorrins Strand estate and the Queen Meave Trail.”

The Cathaoirleach also wished to be associated with the motion.

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services, informed the meeting that the Roads Section has considered the request for the construction of a footpath at this location. There is already a hard shoulder, public lighting and cycleway at this location. There are also a large number of private entrances accessing this section of roadway. Construction of a footpath at this location would require a complete redesign of the road cross-section, possible installation of a new drainage system and considerable accommodation works due to the number of private access points onto the road. Such a construction scheme, taking into account the complexities involved, would be very expensive.

The Council is also receiving similar requests for construction of new footpaths at several other locations throughout the county including elsewhere in Strandhill village.

There is no specific funding scheme for the construction of new footpaths such as this. It is likely that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport will refer the Council to its annual Discretionary Grant to fund works such as this. Due to the volume of works in Roads Department at the moment and limited resources little if any progress has been made so far in the development of the requested scheme. However the request for footpath works at this location and at locations elsewhere in Strandhill is noted and have been added to the list of requested future road improvement schemes.

Mr. Kilfeather added that, in the earlier presentation, the Chief Executive had made reference to R.R.D.F. applications for Strandhill and Rosses Point. This might be something that could be incorporated into that which might lead to funding. Also, in the next round of Town and Village it could be considered and it would be kept in mind.

Councillor Bree welcomed the response to the resolution.

34. ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S TO LOSS OF REVENUE DUE TO COVID-19:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Housing, Planning & Local Government to see what additional support will be given to Sligo County Council to ensure that the loss of revenue due to Covid 19 doesn't impact on staff levels or frontline services.”

35. REMOTE WORKING IN COUNTY SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to call on the Government to ensure adequate supports are put in place to support Remote Working in Sligo and Rural areas. Covid 19 has proven that remote working is a real option for people of the area but to ensure the long term viability of remote working supports need to be secured.”

36. UPDATE ON REVIEW OF COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide an update on the review of the County Development Plan.”

Ms. Clarke informed the meeting that all County Development Plans follow a six year review cycle which means that a Planning Authority is required the commence the formal review process not later than four years after the making of a Development Plan in order to facilitate the completion of the plan preparation and public consultation process in the two year statutory timeframe. The current Sligo County Development Plan 2017-2023 was adopted on 28th August, 2017. Accordingly, the formal review is scheduled to commence sometime in the first half of 2021.

A discussion ensued regarding arangemnets for variations to the current plan by Members during the review in 2021. Reference was made to a Committee that had been formed to discuss difficulties arising with the process and Councillor Taylor confirmed that he was Chair of this Committee and Ms. Clarke had been open to meeting with them.

The Chief Executive said that such a meeting might be helpful as the law in this area was quite complicated and had changed. A meeting would allow the Members to go through all the details and processes and might provide the required clarity.

Members agreed that clarity was required to resolve queries raised again in this discussion. Following further discussions in this regard, the Cathaoirleach suggested that Councillor Taylor would arrange a meeting of the Committee within the next month and that Members would be updated on progress.

37. UPDATE ON ROADS PROGRAMME AND OUTDOOR STAFF:

The following motion had been listed on the agenda by Councillor Clarke

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide an update on the Roads Programme and outdoor staff.”

Councillor Clarke noted that this update had been provided by Mr. Kilfeather during the Presentation at item 18.

38. UPDATE AND CLARIFICATION ON PARKING CHARGES IN SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor T Healy

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide an update and clarification on parking charges.”

Councillor Clarke outlined the background to this item and said he had been approached by members of the public expressing the opinion that using the machines was unsafe due to Covid-19. He also enquired whether parking charges were still in place at that time.

The Chief Executive confirmed that the charges were still in place. However, they were not being enforced at present. The Traffic Wardens had been stood down from those duties and had been reassigned to assist H.S.E. staff at Sligo University Hospital.

39. JUNCTION BETWEEN N15 AND L7404 AT DRUMCLIFF:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council work with TII and An Garda Siochána to reduce the danger at the Junction between the N15 and the L7404 (Dog Warden road) at Drumcliff. This junction although having a double solid white line has been the scene of numerous minor accidents with people illegally overtaking and it may only be a matter of time before we have a serious or fatal accident at this junction.”

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Service informed the Members that this location will be examined by Sligo County Council Road Design Section in conjunction with the Area Engineer and T.I.I. Safety Section with a view to identifying any road safety issues that might be appropriate to be addressed.

40. PROSECUTIONS IN 2019 FOR ILLEGAL DUMPING/ROADSIDE POSTERS AND SURVEILLANCE ON A SITE IN CLIFFONEY:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council report on how many prosecutions were in 2019 for

illegal dumping
Illegal Roadside posters

and to increase surveillance on a site at Cliffoney where wholesale illegal commercial dumping is taking place.”

Mr. Kilfeather reported as follows:

There were a total of 7 prosecutions brought before the District Court in 2019 for waste/littering offences.

In addition, a total number of 74 ‘on-the-spot’ fines were issued for the same year, summarised as follows:

Illegal dumping:

23 Fines issued based on evidence retrieved from CCTV footage.
15 Fines issued based on evidence retrieved via investigations carried out.

Illegal roadside posters:

36 Fines issued relating to advertising/election posters.
(4 were issued in 2018 and there have been 9 to date this year)

Investigations have commenced regarding the site at Cliffoney. This site is also on the list of sites requiring cleanup under the 2020 Anti Dumping Initiative.

41. PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL BINS IN GRANGE AND CLIFFONEY VILLAGES:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council increase the number of Bins in Grange and Cliffoney Villages in light of the amount of rubber gloves being dumped on streets in recent weeks.”

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services advised the meeting that the provision of additional bins for the disposal of this type of waste would be excessive and from our experience, it would also lead to further illegal dumping in the areas instead of alleviating the issue. This is a temporary issue and in order to address it, arrangements have been made for Grange and Cliffoney villages to be monitored twice daily for the foreseeable and for any items of waste to be removed accordingly. Sligo County Council will also use social media to highlight the importance of dealing with covid related waste items properly, to avoid any potential spread of the virus. We will also engage with Tidy Towns Groups in the county to improve awareness of this issue.

42. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Patrick and Christopher Haran of Rinroe, Grange on the death of their mother, Eileen.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Lockhart of Newtown, Grange on the death of her brother, John Waters.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michelle Hoey of Ballyconnell, Ballinfull on the death of her mother, Fran Kennedy.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Marie Mullen of Gortarowey, Carney on the death of her husband, Joe.

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Noel Rooney of Ballygilgan, Carney on the death of his mother, Brigid.

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

AND AGREED

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

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Colm Gannon of Ballincar, Sligo on the death of his wife, Bridie.

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Eilís Barrett, husband Breanáin O’Neill and family of the “Salley Gardens”, Ballisodare on the death of her father, Noel Barrett.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Grimes and family of Carragubada, Carraroe on the death of her husband, Vincent.

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Peadar and Carol Kivlehan of Lavagh, Achonry on the death of Peadar’s brother in law, Brian Oldfield.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Denton Johnson and family of Ballintra, Co. Donegal on the death of his brother in law, Brian Oldfield.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to John, Liz, Joan and Lorna McDonagh of Kiernan Avenue, Collooney on the death of their father, Michael.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Noel Willis and family of Ballygawley on the death of his father, Mick.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Marie and Vincent Henry of Whitehill, Riverstown on the death of Marie’s father, Mick Willis.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Shane Willis of Coola, Sooey on the death of his father, Mick.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Eamon Barrett and family of Finner Road, Bundoran, Co. Donegal on the death of his father, Pat.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ursula and Sam McGarry of Tonaphubble on the death of Ursula’s mother, Maureen Gilrane.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary and Denis Walsh and family of Ballygawley on the death of Mary’s mother, Kathleen Kelly.”