Minutes 2020

Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 7th December, 2020 at 10.00 a.m. in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.

COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

Councillor Baker ^(R),
Councillor Bree,
Councillor Casserly,
Councillor Clarke,
Councillor Connolly ^(R),
Councillor Fox,
Councillor Gibbons,
Councillor Gilroy,
Councillor MacSharry,
Councillor Maguire,
Councillor Mullaney ^(R),
Councillor Mulvey,
Councillor O’Boyle,
Councillor Queenan,
Councillor Taylor,
Councillor Walsh.

^(R) = participated in the meeting Remotely

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
John Moran, A/Director of Services
Jimmy O’Brien, I.S. Project Leader
Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor Dara Mulvey, presided.
Councillor R. O’Grady
Councillor T. Healy.

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present and asked Mr. Moran, Acting Director of Services and Compliance Officer for the meeting (as required under Health and Safety protocols) to set out the procedures that were in place.

Details had also been circulated to all those attending in advance of the meeting.

It was noted that, due to those restrictions, the capacity of the Council Chamber was limited to 19 people. Members of the media were participating remotely as were Councillors Baker, Connolly and Mullaney. A link had also been provided on the Council’s website where members of the public could watch the meeting via a link on the homepage. The Cathaoirleach thanked the Members who had facilitated the meeting by agreeing to participate by ‘Zoom’. He then informed the meeting that, as this was the last meeting Mr. Hayes would be attending in his role as Chief Executive, it was his intention to conclude the business of the meeting by 11.30 a.m. to afford Members the opportunity to extend their good wishes to him on his retirement.

1. MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Meetings of the Municipal District of Sligo-Drumcliff:

Meeting held on 21^st September, 2020 and
Meeting held on 19^th October, 2020 (to consider the Draft 2021 Budgetary Plan).”

2. MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF:

Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Meetings of the Borough District of Sligo:

Meeting held on 21^st September, 2020 and
Meeting held on 19^th October, 2020 (to consider the Draft 2021 Budgetary Plan).”

3. MINUTES OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S PROCEDURES COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Sligo County Council’s Procedures Committee Meetings held on a) 29^th October, 2020 and b) 10^th November, 2020.”

4. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 2ND NOVEMBER, 2020:

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

AND AGREED

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

5. MINUTES OF STATUTORY BUDGET MEETING HELD ON 23RD NOVEMBER, 2020:

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

AND AGREED

To confirm Minutes of Statutory Budget Meeting of Sligo County Council for the year 2021 held on 23^rd November, 2020.

6. LEASE OF PROPERTY AT MARKET YARD, SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the proposal for a lease of property at the Council Offices, Market Yard, Sligo to Sligo Leitrim ITS Regional Development Projects D.A.C., Institute of Technology, Ash Lane, Sligo.”

7. DISPOSAL OF COUNCIL LAND AT CRANMORE DRIVE AND CRANMORE VILLAS, SLIGO:

In regard to the following item which had been listed on the Agenda:

“To consider under Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of Council land to the rear of gardens of the properties at Cranmore Drive and Cranmore Villas, Sligo as set out in Schedule 1 of Notice of Disposal of Land held by Sligo County Council.”

Councillor Bree asked that this item would be deferred to the January Ordinary Meeting agenda as there was a dispute over a right of way in that area.

Mr. Moran informed the meeting that the works set out in the report were to be undertaken by a contractor who was currently on site. He felt it was important the approval would be given as the Contractor was due to leave the site in early February/March 2021.

In reply, Councillor Bree set out his reasons for seeking the deferral. He had made efforts to contact senior staff in this regard but had not received any response to date.

The Chief Executive confirmed that there was no difficulty in arranging a further meeting. Sligo County Council had legal advice on this matter. Should a third party decide to take legal action that was a decision for them to make. However, he would be anxious that the works would go ahead.

Councillor MacSharry sought clarification if the Council Executive had received correspondence from any Solicitor or Legal Representation on this matter. The Members had to take on board what Councillor Bree had enquired if it was approved, could a further meeting be arranged with Councillor Bree and the householder in the coming week to see if the issues could be advanced and clarification brought to the situation.

Councillor Bree said he had written ten days previously to a senior staff member and, to date, had not received any acknowledgement. He had been informed that the item was being listed on the Council Meeting Agenda and he had sought a copy of the legal advice referred to.

In concluding the discussions, the Chief Executive confirmed that a copy of the legal advice would be circulated to the Members following the meeting. Also, a further meeting would be arranged with the householder Councillor Bree had referred to.

It was proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“That consideration of item 7 on the Agenda regarding the disposal of Council land at Cranmore Drive and Cranmore Villas, Sligo be deferred to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda.”

8. PROVISION OF ASSISTANCE TO ICARE HOUSING CLG – 44 RADHARC NA HABHAINN, COOLANEY:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance to ICARE Housing Company Limited by Guarantee in the form of CALF Loan for the Mortgage To Rent CALF P&A acquisition project at No. 44 Radharc Na Habhainn, Coolaney, Co. Sligo.”

9. APPOINTMENT OF TRAVELLER REPRESENTATIVES TO THE LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITEE:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To appoint

Bernadette Maughan of Sligo Traveller Support Group,
Jamie Murphy of Sligo Traveller Support Group,
Bernard Ward of Sligo Traveller Support Group and
T.J. Hogan of Irish Traveller Movement

to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee, in accordance with Section 21(5) of the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act, 1998.”

10. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2020:

The Members agreed to note the Monthly Management Report for October 2020.

11. ORDINARY MEETING – JANUARY 2021:

The Members agreed that the next Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council would be held on Monday, 11^th January, 2021 at 10.00 a.m.

12. REQUEST FOR INCREASE IN COUNCILLORS’ ALLOCATIONS

AND

13. RESURFACING WORKS AT ‘FERNDALE’, CARTRON POINT, SLIGO:

Councillor MacSharry informed the Meeting that he wished to withdraw items 12 and 13 on the Agenda:

“That Sligo County Council members get an increase of €10,000 in Councillors allocations per annum. This funding is used by Councillors for various projects within the Sligo Community and that the proposed increase is taken from the LPT.”

and

“That Sligo County Council undertake resurfacing works at Ferndale, Cartron Point which is currently in a very dangerous state as a matter of urgency.”

14. INVITATION TO PRESIDENT ELECT JOE BIDEN TO VISIT SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council offer the congratulations and best wishes of the people of Sligo at home and abroad to President elect Joe Biden and extend an invitation to the President to visit Sligo on the occasion of his next visit to Ireland.”

Councillor Bree and Councillor O’Boyle asked to be recorded as opposing this resolution.

15. RECOGNITION OF FRONTLINE WORKERS:

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

“That this Council recognise the hard work, dedication and resilience of all our front line workers, especially our nursing staff, during this pandemic. I am asking that the annual registration fee for Nurses be waived this year as a gesture of gratitude and a show of solidarity for their continuous efforts to contain this virus.”

The following amendments to the motion were placed before the Members:

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

AND AGREED

“That the following words be added to the motion ‘and further we call on the Government to immediately reinstate the payment to student nurses and midwives who are in placements during the Covid-19 pandemic, at the Health Care assistant Rate.”

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

AND AGREED

“This Council recognises the hard work, dedication and resilience of all our front line workers, especially our nursing staff during this pandemic. I am asking that the nurses be given a €500 Christmas bonus as a token of our sincere appreciation and a mark of solidarity for their continuous efforts to contain the virus.”

16. GROWING TREND OF REMOTE WORKING:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council support the growing trend towards remote working, community hubs, and offer a lifeline for early stage rural-based individuals, companies and entrepreneurs to identify schemes and initiatives to enable and facilitate remote working. There is a huge demand for this in the communities of Grange, Cliffoney, Mullaghmore, Drumcliffe and Maugherow in North Sligo and throughout the entire county Sligo. I request that all means are examined to make this possible.”

Councillor Casserly thanked Ms. Clarke, Director of Services, for the detailed report which had been forwarded to the Members in advance of the Meeting.

17. REQUEST FOR MEETING WITH N.T.A. RE. BUS SERVICES IN SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council ask the National Transport Authority for a meeting with a delegation of this Council as a matter of urgency to discuss the Bus Service in Sligo.”

Councillor MacSharry outlined his reasons for listing this matter again on the agenda. There had been confusion in the past where a meeting had been requested with Bus Éireann. However, he felt that a delegation to meet with representatives of the National Transport Authority (N.T.A.) was merited. The Staff in Bus Éireann was doing excellent work on the routes assigned to them by the N.T.A. He also referred to the previous ‘Imp’ service which had operated in Sligo and this had been an excellent service covering a much wider area. A delegation of rural and urban Councillors should sit down with the N.T.A. and clarify the situation in Sligo.

Councillor Maguire, in supporting the motion, confirmed that this matter had been listed by many Members over the years. They had sought meetings with Bus Éireann and the N.T.A. regarding the changes in the nature of the services in Sligo There had been a shocking lack of courtesy shown to the Council, by Bus Éireann in particular, and she agreed that a delegation should be formed to try and move this forward.

The resolution was supported by Councillor Walsh who noted that, together with Councillor O’Grady, he had also raised the issue at a recent Corporate Policy Group Meeting. Their representatives needed to come to Sligo or the delegation proposed could travel to meet with them, particularly regarding the S1 and S2 services.

Councillor Gibbons agreed with the points raised and said that, a service became accessible for people with disabilities following the introduction of the ‘Imp’ Service referred to by Councillor MacSharry. However, in the areas referred to by the Members, no service was available to those with or without a disability.

In agreeing with the proposals, Councillor Taylor referred to efforts in the past by Councillor Baker and himself to arrange a meeting with Bus Éireann. They also had concerns regarding bus services in rural areas and an example was given of the removal of the service from Ballinafad village.

Councillor O’Boyle noted that, if the issue was not one which could have been resolved by Bus Éireann, the Members should have been advised by them to refer their requests to the N.T.A. rather than being allowed to continuously forward correspondence to the Regional Operations Manager (West) of Bus Éireann, Mr. Brian Connolly.

Councillor MacSharry thanked the Members for their support. He noted that all Members had been pushing to resolve this matter. He said an opportunity should be sought for a delegation of urban and rural Councillors to attend that meeting.

18. BYE LAWS ON CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL IN PUBLIC SPACES:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to clarify the bye laws on consumption of alcohol in public spaces and the enforcement of these laws.”

Councillor Fox thanked the Director of Services for the report which had been circulated to the Members prior to the Meeting. He noted that the report stated that it was envisaged to have bye-laws before the Council for formal adoption in 2021. The enforcement of the bye-laws will lie with the Gardaí.

In supporting the resolution, Councillor Gilroy said that enforcement is a big issue and had never been easy.

Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services, said that the Executive were liaising with the Gardaí on this matter. The bye laws would have to be in place before they could act.

19. FLOODING ISSUES AT BREEOGUE, KNOCKNAHUR:

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

AND AGREED

“To request Sligo County Council provide an update on what work has taken place to date, what engagement has there been with the Department and if an application for funding has been submitted to the Department to prevent a recurrence of flooding issues at Breeogue, Knocknahur, Sligo as seen in 2015.”

Councillor Walsh said he was very disappointed with the report circulated in response to this notice of motion:

Sligo County Council applied to the Office of Public Works (O.P.W.) in December 2017 for funding under the minor works scheme. It was unsuccessful as it did not meet the cost benefit ratio (CBR) criteria of this scheme.

Sligo County Council applied to the O.P.W. in May 2019 for funding under the same scheme. The application made in 2019 was for funding to appoint a specialist consultant to identify a fully costed solution and the funding routes available to execute the scheme. The appointed consultant identified a solution and as with Sligo County Council’s application in 2017, it did not meet the CBR criteria required. The O.P.W. has indicated that no funding can be provided for schemes that do not meet the CBR criteria required. Sligo County Council also informed all affected parties about the Home Relocation Scheme funded through the O.P.W. but we understand that this was not availed of.

In noting Councillor Walsh’s comments, Mr. Kilfeather said that Sligo County Council had to do the best it could with the resources available. There was no lack of effort by Sligo County Council to resolve this. There were some issues that it could not solve on its own. The Executive had gone twice to the O.P.W. but, unfortunately, there were criteria in place and they were not met. There were some problems that Sligo County Council could just not solve. In reply to the query as to what would happen when flooding would reoccur, he said he was sorry that he did not have a more positive response but reiterated that there was no lack of effort on the part of Sligo County Council’s Engineering staff.

20. “CORRADOO COTTAGES” HOUSING ESTATE, BALLINAFAD:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to begin the process of taking in charge a housing estate known as Corradoo Cottages, Ballinafad.”

Members noted that Corradoo Cottages were originally built as a Holiday Home development and the Bond was refunded in 2008 on the basis that the development was completed to a satisfactory standard, would remain private, and would not be taken in charge.

The development also has a developer provided Infrastructure consisting of a Wastewater treatment plant. Under the Memorandum of Understanding with Irish Water, Irish Water will not take charge of such infrastructure.

The Enforcement Section have requested reports from Water Services, Environment and Roads and on receipt of these reports, a decision will be made on whether it is appropriate to commence the process of taking in charge this estate.

21. REQUEST FOR REMOVAL OF BOLLARDS ON CASTLE STREET AND GRATTAN STREET, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in conjunction with the Support Local Retail Campaign and the seasonal nature of the business conducted in December remove some of the bollards along Castle Street and Grattan Street for the remaining 3 week period from December 7^th until Christmas Eve December 24^th to allow for temporary Click and Collect or Call and Collect services to be offered by struggling businesses in this area.”

The following report had been issued to the Members prior to the meeting:

The mobility plan implemented along Castle Street/Grattan Street and Stephen Street has provided additional space along these streets where pedestrians can walk safely and comfortably under the Current Covid-19 pandemic guidelines. Considering the expected huge influx of shoppers within the town core Centre on the lead up to Christmas it is critical that this additional space provided is maintained. In consultation with traders 12 no. “Free Park 20” spaces, 1 no. Age Friendly space and 1 no. loading bay have been provided in close proximity to Castle Street/Grattan Street Loading bays have been extended and Loading times extended in response to traders representations. As stated before the mobility plan is a living document and is subject will be subject to update and review depending on Government and HSE advice.

Councillor Gilroy and Councillor MacSharry set out the background to this motion and its listing on the agenda.

In reply, Mr. Kilfeather said he agreed with both Members but there was an obligation to follow guidelines on public health. This was the only reason they were in place in Sligo and Strandhill. The Executive were trying to facilitate as much as possible to compensate for the inconvenience caused in Castle Street and Grattan Street. An example was given of the ‘three for one’ parking initiative which is in place until 9^th January, 2021. When paying parking fees, if a motorist paid for one hour, they receive two additional hours free of charge. This was one measure in place to try and help.

The Mobility Plan was fluid and the Executive had engaged with the Traders but could not agree to all requests. They had to stand by those decisions as well. The matter would be re-examined in January.

The motion was further supported by Councillor Bree and Councillor Fox.

22. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON ROAD L7204 AT SCOIL NAOMH MOLAISE IN GRANGE:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council Roads Department introduce speed control measures such as speed ramps or rumble strips on L7204 at the Entrance to Scoil Naomh Molaise Grange. Many children attending the School use this entrance and with roadside parking and excessive speed of some traffic there is a constant fear for the safety of these young pedestrians if action is not taken.”

The Members had been advised that there is currently lining and signing at each approach to warn motorists of a school ahead. Further traffic calming works will be carried out shortly in the form of lining along this section of road which was funded through Councillors’ proposals. The Area Engineer will carry out a review of this location on completion of these works.

23. REQUEST TO ENACT PRIVATE MEMBERS MOTION RE. POST OFFICE NETWORK:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls upon the Minster for Climate Action, Communications, Networks and Transport, Eamon Ryan T.D., the Minister for Finance, Pascal Donohue, T.D. and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath T.D. to urgently enact the private members motion previously passed in November 2016 by the previous government regarding the future of the Post Office network.

This is a matter of urgency to ensure the sustainability of our existing community Post Office Network.”

Councillor MacSharry had circulated a copy to the Members of the motion referred to.

Several Councillors reiterated their support for this motion, together with the Cathaoirleach.

24. REQUEST FOR SAFETY ASSESSMENT AT SOOEY NATIONAL SCHOOL ON R284:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to carry out a safety assessment at Sooey National School on R284 to address the concerns parents and the community have at drop off and pick up times.”

The Director of Services had reported that the area referred to is located within a 50kph speed limit and Sligo County Council carried out substantial traffic calming works in this area in 2015 to the value of €200,000 approx. It is the responsibility of the school to provide a safe set down area for the pupils attending the school. A meeting with the Area Engineer and the Principal of the school was held last week to discuss the matter.

Councillor Walsh, in noting the works carried out previously, expressed his concerns and said there were 121 Pupils from 60 families attending this School. This area was particularly hazardous at morning and evening drop off/pick up times. He asked that if the installation of signage and, possibly, bollards could be examined as they would make a difference.

25. REPORT ON THE TAKING IN CHARGE OF ‘ST. ANDREW’S’ ESTATE IN ENNISCRONE:

Proposed by Councillor Clarke
Seconded by Councillor Queenan

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council be provided with a detailed report on the taking in charge of St. Andrew’s Estate, Enniscrone.”

The Members had been advised by Ms. Clarke, Director of Services, that Sligo County Council’s Enforcement Section received a request on the 29th October, 2020 from the residents of St. Andrew’s to take in charge their estate. Since then the Planning Enforcement Section has requested reports from Water Services, Roads and Electric Skyline (street lights). As there is no Bond available for this estate which was constructed over 20 years ago, funds required to carry out any works will have to be sourced from elsewhere.

The Chief Executive confirmed that Ms. Clarke would make further contact with Councillor Clarke on this matter.

26. ISSUES RELATING TO EASKEY:

Councillor O’Boyle, with the Cathaoirleach’s permission, said he wished to put an amended motion before the meeting.

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

"We call upon Irish Water to instruct the Easkey Community Council, who manage the Caravan Park, to remove if there is an illegal connection to the main sewer immediately and to dispose of the surface water in line with current regulations.

We further call upon Sligo County Council to investigate any and all breaches of planning permission with regard to the Easkey Caravan Park/Community Centre. Finally, we call upon Irish Water, the E.P.A., Sligo County Council and I.F.I. to explain to all concerned their lamentable failure to act properly on these matters for such a long time."

Councillor Clarke advised the meeting of various efforts he had made over the past twelve years to resolve this matter. He was asking that the Enforcement Section would now carry out a total review of what was happening in Easkey. Further, he was asking that Irish Water would list Easkey for an emergency upgrade of the sewerage system.

Councillor Bree said he welcomed that the resolution was unanimously agreed and that there should be an audit of all planning permissions. In thanking Ms. Clarke for her report, he noted that it had said that any issues relating to the capacity of the Foul Sewer Network will need to be addressed by Irish Water. He said he was anxious to know if the Executive, as Planning Authority, was satisfied that Easkey Community Council connections are compliant with the planning permissions granted by Sligo County Council. Also, had Easkey Community Council adhered to conditions regarding connections to the Foul Water and Sewer system.

Councillor Queenan said that he had raised a query at the Budget Meeting regarding Easkey sewerage plant. An E.P.A. report had referred to works in Tubbercurry and Ballymote but had not mentioned Easkey. Irish Water should be contacted and informed that Easkey is a priority in the short term for an upgrade. If not, this may have a knock on effect for future development in the town.

27. CONSIDERATION FOR LEGALISING AND REGULATION OF CANNABIS:

The Cathaoirleach confirmed that he would take an amended motion from Councillor O’Boyle as he now wished to insert the words ‘consider legalising’ in place of the word ‘legalise’.

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

“Sligo County Council calls on Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Health Minister Stephen Donnelly to promote non-partisan legislation to consider legalising and regulate cannabis in a manner similar to alcohol.”

Following a discussion on the motion, a vote was called which resulted as follows:

FOR: Councillor Bree, Councillor Gibbons, Councillor Maguire and Councillor O'Boyle (4)

AGAINST: Councillor Baker, Councillor Casserly, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Fox, Councillor Gilroy, Councillor Mullaney, Councillor Mulvey, Councillor Queenan and Councillor Taylor (9)

ABSTAINED: Councillor Clarke and Councillor Walsh (2)

ABSENT: Councillor Healy, Councillor MacSharry and Councillor O'Grady (3)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the motion LOST.

Councillor O’Boyle said he wished to thank all the Members for their input and the interesting debate which had taken place.

28. DRAFT BYE-LAWS TO PROHIBIT H.G.V.S:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive when it is expected that the draft bye laws to prohibit Heavy Goods Vehicles from using the road network through the Cranmore housing estate, Martin Savage Terrace and Doorly Park housing estates and Cleveragh Drive; will be brought before the Council for consideration.”

Mr. Kilfeather had reported to the Members that as previously advised to the Council the intention of the Infrastructure Directorate is to consider this matter in the context of available staff resources and planning for progression of the Eastern Garavogue Bridge and Approach Roads Scheme. We expect to complete the detailed design and tender documentation for the Scheme in Q3 2021. Approval to proceed to tender would allow us put a dedicated staffing Team in place for the Project and the consideration of these Bye Laws would also be included in the work programme of the team.

Councillor Bree said it was unacceptable that a resolution, seeking to have the bye-laws prepared, had been agreed by the Council Members 17 months ago. He said it was his opinion that the Council’s Solicitor had not been asked to draft them as, also in his opinion, the Council Executive did not want them drafted.

Mr. Kilfeather, in noting Councillor Bree’s comments, said that the response was consistent with what the Members had been advised. The Members had been informed that this area would be examined when putting a team together for the Eastern Garavogue Bridge. It had been hoped that this would have been further on at this time. The team would now be in place around the middle of 2021. While it did not relate to the bridge, when he would have a team assigned, it would be part of their work to bring forward the bye-laws. If Members insisted that these bye-laws had to be prepared immediately, some other work have to be dropped, e.g. the Beach bye-laws which it had been hoped to introduce in 2021 or those for public drinking as referred to earlier in the meeting. This was a resources issue and the Executive were trying to make the best of scarce resources. Due to Covid-19 and other issues, Schemes were not finished. He confirmed that the bye-laws were not tied in with the bridge but it was likely that they would be part of the same team’s work. The only area these bye laws were currently in place was Dublin City Centre. However, if Members felt strongly about this, something else would have to be pulled off the table.

Councillor Bree asked that the Solicitor would be approached to see if there are significant difficulties as it might be a fairly simple matter and he asked the Director of Services if that would be possible.

In reply, Mr. Kilfeather said he would give that commitment and Councillor Bree welcomed the response.

In supporting the resolution, Councillor MacSharry said he welcomed the clarification from the Director of Service and Chief Executive. A massive concern for people in the area, and those around the Cleveragh area also, was that when the bridge and infrastructure was in place they would not have H.G.V.s using this area. He wished to stress the importance of the issue where the residents have justifiable concerns. This had been unanimously supported by the Members previously.

29. ACQUISITION OF LONG TERM VACANT HOUSES BY C.P.O.:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive the total number of houses purchased by the Council in the current year, and to further ask if the Council has used Compulsory Purchase Orders to acquire long term vacant houses so as to make them available for applicants on the Councils Housing Waiting list.”

Moran had reported to the Members that the Council has purchased one house to date with a further five units possible by the end of the year. The Council has not used Compulsory Purchase Orders to acquire long term vacant houses. The Councils preference is to purchase houses by agreement, as this process avoids the challenges and costs to what can be a lengthy CPO process, which may also include an arbitration process. It is also the best use of scarce resources.

Councillor Bree said he was extremely disappointed with the response as there were a large number of dwellings lying vacant in Sligo. He believed that many of those would be suitable and the County Council should be using its C.P.O. (Compulsory Purchase Order) powers to acquire them.

Mr. Moran informed the meeting that the C.P.O. process is very tedious and cumbersome and required resources. However, its use was not being ruled out entirely.

The Chief Executive added that it was a far simpler process, rather than going through a C.P.O., to acquire houses on the open market. The process, as it was cumbersome, can add to the costs. It reflected far more favourably on the staff of the Council that they are able to increase housing stock without using a Compulsory Purchase Order.

Councillor O’Boyle and Councillor Gibbons supported the resolution with Councillor Gibbons adding that he had concerns regarding long term leasing. He felt that the money being paid by the County Council to the Landlords would have purchased the houses.

30. SETTLEMENTS IN PALESTINE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle & Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“Recognising that Israeli settlements constructed and located on Palestinian territory are illegal under international law, Sligo County Council:(a) acknowledges the correspondence received from the Mayor of Bethlehem in regard to the construction of the illegal Israeli settlement of “Giv’at Hamatos”: (b) declares its solidarity with the Mayor and Municipal Council of Bethlehem and the people of Bethlehem; (c) condemns in the strongest possible terms the continued construction of illegal Israeli settlements on Palestinian territory (d) calls on the Irish government to join with nation states worldwide to demand that the Israeli regime halt construction of the illegal settlement of “Giv’at Hamatos.”

31. SUPPORT FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES:

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to ask that where possible that the citizens of County Sligo consider purchasing their shopping and Christmas Gifts in their local stores in the lead up to the Christmas. Many businesses in Sligo have put in place online and click and collect shopping facilities and again would ask that people support these initiatives where possible. This is even more critical to the local community in light of the outrageous comments made by Eir CEO Carolan Lennon which has the potential to cause further damage to businesses in Sligo. In light of these comments, I would ask that Sligo County Council formally request a written apology form Eir for the comments made by Carolan Lennon which have the potential to damage Sligo's reputation as a county to set up business in.”

Councillor Gibbons, in setting out the background to the resolution, said that a letter should be issued to Ms. Lennon seeking a public apology. If the County Council staff were not carrying out their work, that was a matter for the Chief Executive. If there were management problems in Eir, this was not a matter for which Sligo should be blamed. The damage caused by her comments could be irreparable. An apology should be received, not just from Eir but from Ms. Lennon.

Councillor O’Boyle agreed with the sentiments raised and said that he knew several Eir employees and felt they also deserved an apology.

In supporting the resolution, Councillor Gilroy referred to correspondence sent to Ms. Lennon following the July Ordinary Meeting. A further reminder had issued to her office. To date, no acknowledgement had been received. Ms. Lennon should also be asked to answer the questions raised in that correspondence.

Councillor Maguire said she was in support of the two issues raised by Councillor Gibbons. Firstly, the campaign as supported by Sligo County Council in relation to local business, including the initiative relating to parking charges. She had watched Ms. Lennon’s interview on TV with great dismay. Ms. Lennon had done herself an injustice. It was shoddy from a management perspective to cast aspersions on employees who are obviously lacking in resources. Sligo has a fantastic workforce who are willing to work. She would welcome a public response and while Ms. Lennon had made some comments on radio subsequently, it had fallen short of a full apology.

The Chief Executive said he agreed with the comments and sentiments. It had been very disappointing to hear those comments in such a public manner. However, Sligo County Council should be measured in terms of its response. He was not sure it should be given extra oxygen at this point and the Council should be careful in extending the story.

Councillor Casserly said she agreed and acknowledged the work carried out by ‘Shop Local’. She also welcomed the two hours free parking and reminded people that there is free parking every Sunday. ‘Click and Collect’ spaces have also been introduced. Anything that could promote Sligo positively should be highlighted.

The Cathaoirleach said he wished to thank the Corporate Services Section and Ocean FM for the week of ‘Shop Local’ promotions. Unfortuately, it had not be feasible to get to every town in the county. He had met them while in Ballymote and there had been a great reaction to their visit.

32. URBAN CYCLE POLICY FOR SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“Aware that 2012 policy document "Urban Cycle Policy" was envisaged as a 5-year plan for cyclist within the urban area I would call on Sligo County Council to give an update on the current bike policy both for the county and Urban environs. I would also request an update on what is the current situation regarding bike stands as a number have been removed during recent street improvement works and if further sites are planned.”

Mr. Kilfeather had reported that Sligo County Council developed an ‘Active Travel Towns’ strategy for Sligo Town in 2013 and since then, with Department of Transport funding Sligo has developed significant lengths of cycle lanes and cycle paths in the Sligo & Environs Area. This has included ‘Grey ways/Cycle ways’ to Rosses Point and Strandhill. Cycle stands were also provided at various locations in Sligo Town and around the County. Many of the cycle ways are detailed on the www.sligoactivetravel.ie website.

The Department of Transport made further funds available for ‘Active Travel’ last August under the Governments ‘July Stimulus Package’. Sligo County Council was successful in obtaining €1.043m grant funding for 22 schemes under this grant heading on 31^st August last. Works included improvements to and provision of new footpaths and improvements to existing cycle ways across County Sligo. These works are ongoing. Works in the Sligo Town & Environs area include refurbishment of the existing Cycle ways to Rosses Point and Strandhill and to cycle lanes in Sligo Town and improvement to pedestrian facilities in Sligo Town ( Pedestrian crossings, footpaths etc). Works outside the Town include new footpaths in Carney, Ballisodare to Collooney, Geevagh, Enniscrone, Ballymote, Gurteen etc.

It is understood that the Government and Department of Transport/National Transport Authority will be assigning significant additional funds to Active Travel measures in the next few years. We await details of the type of measures likely to be funded and how funds will be allocated. It is considered that further works will require a significant planning and design input to ensure that appropriate and high quality facilities are provided.

Councillor Maguire added her support to the resolution and the points raised by Councillor Gibbons. Both Members requested that the installation of cyle stands would be re-examined as a matter of urgency.

33. REQUEST FOR AN INCREASE IN BICYCLE STANDS IN SLIGO:

The Cathaoirleach deferred the following item to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda as listed by Councillor O’Grady:

“That Sligo County Council increase the number of Bicycle Stands available to cyclists.”

34. CLINICAL PLACEMENT BURSARY FOR NURSING STUDENTS:

The Cathaoirleach also deferred the following item to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda as Councillor O’Grady was not in attendance:

“That Sligo County Council write to the Department of Health and the Department of Higher Education requesting that they explore the introduction of an appropriate clinical placement Bursary for Nursing Students.”

35. FUNDING TO UPGRADE ROAD R297:

As Councillor Queenan had to attend another appointment, the Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that he would defer this item to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“To ask the Chief Executive to allocate funding to upgrade Road R297 in 2021.”

36. HOUSING CONSTRUCTION IN WEST SLIGO:

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that he would also defer this item to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda:

“To ask the Director of Services for Housing what is the plan to construct Housing in West Sligo over the next few years.”

37. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Daryl Ewing of Rosses Point on the death of his mother, Ruth Grier-Ewing.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Joe Currid of Mountedward, Ballinfull on the death of his wife, Ann.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Sharon McGarry of ‘Ellrima House’, Carrowmore on the death of her husband, Conleth (Durkin) Harkin.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Stephanie Dunne of Larkhill Road, Sligo on the death of her father, Bill.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Michael O’Broin of Drum Road, Rathcormac on the death of his father, Michael (Mick).”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kieran and Mary Finn of Crossboy, Ballintogher on the death of Kieran’s mother, Julia.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Aisling, Fenton and Daryl Ewing on the death of their mother, Ruth.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Aonghus Murphy of Strandhill on the death of his father, Joe.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Caroline Currid of Silverhill, Grange on the death of her mother, Ann.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Brennan and family of Cloonacurra, Ballinacarrow on the death of her husband, Mattie.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Padraig, Thomas & Mairéad Cornyn of Kilduff, Dowra on the death of their mother, Margaret.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Patrick Berthelot, Mayor of Crozon and colleagues on the death of their former Mayor, Claude Yvenat.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Hannon and family of Knocknaskeagh, Gurteen on the death of her husband, Michael.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paula McKeon and family of Mullaghroe, Gurteen on the death of her husband, Joe.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Ann Flaherty and family of Shroof, Monasteraden on the death of her husband, Paul.”