Minutes 2021

Minutes of October Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday 11th October, 2021 at 10.00 a.m. in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

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

 (R) = participated in the meeting remotely
(C) = participated via County Hall Video Link

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
  • Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services (C)
  • Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services(C)
  • Marie Whelan, Head of Finance(C)
  • John Reilly, Head of Enterprise(C)
  • Jimmy O’Brien, A/Head of Information Systems
  • Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
  • Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor Paul Taylor, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor Healy, Councillor MacSharry and Councillor O’Grady.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting.

Members participating remotely were Councillor Casserly, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Maguire and Councillor Mulvey.

 

LOST INCOME / ADDITIONAL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH COVID:

As a follow up to the Chief Executive’s address at the last meeting regarding lost income and additional costs associated with Covid, a brief discussion ensued.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AUDIT COMMITTEE HELD 20TH JULY, 2021:

REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE ON STATUTORY AUDIT REPORT FOR Y/E 31.12.20:

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

AND AGREED

To Note:

  • Minutes of Sligo County Council’s Audit Committee meeting held on 20th July 2021.
  • Report of Audit Committee on Statutory Audit Report for y/e 31st December 2020.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRCICT HELD ON 21ST JUNE, 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 21st June 2021.”

 

3.  MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT AGM HELD ON 21ST JUNE, 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Annual General Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 21st June 2021.”

 

4.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 6TH SEPTEMBER, 2021:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 6th September 2021.”

 

5.  MINUTES OF ADJOURNED ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 20TH SEPTEMBER, 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 20th September 2021.”

 

6.  DATES FOR HOLDING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT BUDGET MEETINGS AND SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL 2022 BUDGET MEETING:

“To set dates for holding

  • Municipal District Meetings to consider the draft Budgetary Plan and
  • Sligo County Council 2022 Budget Meeting.”

This item was dealt with at the Ordinary Meeting on 4th October 2021.

 

7.  TEMPORARY OVERDRAFT FOR 12 MONTHS FROM 1ST JANUARY 2022 TO 31ST DECEMBER 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To seek approval to borrowing a sum not exceeding €15m by way of temporary overdraft for the 12 months from 1st January, 2022 to 31st December 2022.”     

Head of Finance, Ms. Marie Whelan advised the meeting that renewal of the overdraft facility is again being sought, subject to Members’ approval.  While the Council is currently operating within budget limits, costs continue to be incurred and this measure is being taken as a safeguard around the Council’s finances, particularly in light of the fact that additional government funding to cover lost income and additional costs associated with Covid will not be forthcoming.

 

8.  DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 21 ARD LAIGHNE, COOLANEY, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 21 Ard Laighne, Coolaney, Co Sligo to Maxine O’Boyle.”

 

9.  DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 13 CUIL BUI, CLOONACOOL, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 13 Cuil Bui, Cloonacool, Co Sligo to Patrick Cooke.”

 

10.  TAKING IN CHARGE DEVELOPMENT KNOWN AS FAIRWAYS, TUBBERCURRY, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

11.  DISPOSAL OF NO. 1 CHARLES STREET, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of No. 1, Charles Street, Sligo to Mr. Mark Barron.”

 

12.  SECTION 85 AGREEMENT – SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL REPORT & APPENDIX 1:

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

AND AGREED

“Pursuant to Section 85 of the Local Government Act 2001, as amended, Sligo County Council hereby agrees to enter into an Agreement with Dublin City Council, Kildare County Council and Wicklow County Council, whereby Dublin City Council will carry out all of the functions of these local authorities in respect of the Social Housing PPP (Bundle 3) Programme with the following exceptions:

  • The nomination of tenants to be housed in the social housing development in the relevant local authority’s functional area,
  • The calculation of the tenants’ differential rent,
  • The role of landlord under the tenancy agreements
  • Obtaining the necessary planning approvals and undertaking the public consultation procedures in respect of the development as required under the Planning and Development Acts and Regulations.

It is hereby resolved under Section 85 of the Local Government Act 2001, as amended, to enter into agreements with the local authorities listed above for the provision of the services as outlined above.”

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, discussed the background to this item, as outlined in the report and Appendix document

Councillor Bree noted that provision of these services, while possibly not being value for money in the long term and not a policy decision of this Council, it is necessary to ensure provision of much needed homes which is another arm in the delivery of social houses in the county. 

 

13.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR JULY/AUGUST 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for July/August 2021.”

 

14.  DEVELOPMENT OF SURFING ACCOMMODTION ON FORMER IDA LANDS AT EASKEY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Queenan and Councillor Clarke, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“To call on Sligo County Council to activate Section 34 6 of the Planning Act so that the development of surfing accommodation on former IDA lands at Easkey, Co. Sligo can be considered for planning.”

 

15.  REVIEW INCOME THRESHOLDS FOR SOCIAL HOUSING APPLICATIONS /  REVIEW OF QUALIFICATION TERMS OF THE TENANT PURCHASE SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“To Call on Sligo County Council to Ask the Minister for Housing to: 

  1. Review and increase the Income Thresholds for Social Housing Applications.
  2. To ask that the Qualification Terms of the Tennant Purchase Scheme be reviewed to address the current situation whereby certain applicants do not qualify on grounds of earned income.”

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised the Members that discussions on this item are ongoing with the Department and a more formal approach on the review will be requested by the Council.

The Cathaoirleach requested that the Members be kept updated on this matter.

Councillor Gilroy stated that people are afraid to take on extra work to advance their careers, as this may put them over the threshold to qualify for social housing assistance, which could render them ineligible for housing loans and other means of acquiring adequate housing.  Councillor Gilroy asked that this fact would be included in any correspondence issuing to the Department on this motion.

 

16.  ACCESS TO CULLEENAMORE BEACH:

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

AND AGREED

“This council will replace and repair the access onto Culleenamore beach and make it wheelchair friendly. It has been degraded over the years and this will ensure safe access for all beach goers, and also install a disabled parking bay at the carpark.  In addition, the council will seek to secure funding for an additional beach wheelchair.”

The Members were advised that a full Natura Impact Statement may be required for the works suggested, and the Council is endeavouring to arrange a meeting with representatives from National Parks and Wildlife in this regard, before embarking on this body of work, due to the costs involved.

Councillor Maguire thanked the Director of Services for the report and asked that this matter be kept on the agenda with a view to resolving the issue as soon as possible.

Councillor Gilroy and Councillor Gibbons also requested that the matter of accessibility to all beaches in the county be considered in the interests of safety and inclusion for those with disabilities.

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather, advised that the Members will be kept up to date on progress regarding this motion, but advised caution regarding a request that all beaches be upgraded to the same standard being sought for Culleenamore, as there are procedures that must be followed and other party interests must also be taken into consideration. 

 

17.  REVIEW BY EACH LOCAL AUTHORITY OF ITS PROVISION OF TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION:

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

AND AGREED

“Noting that in 2019, the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission invited each local authority in the State to undertake a review of its provision of Traveller accommodation. The equality reviews  to focus on failures nationally to draw down ring fenced capital funding to meet obligations on Traveller specific accommodation; and further noting that following the Review, the Commission, in July of this year, recommended that Sligo County Council should undertake eight specific actions to strengthen the level of equality of opportunity and non-discrimination in its systems for the provision of Traveller-specific accommodation services; this meeting therefore requests the Council executive to indicate what steps will now be taken to implement the eight recommendations of the Commission.”

It was agreed that an update will be provided to the Members on this motion at the November meeting.

 

18.  REFUGE FOR VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN SLIGO:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Casserly, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“That this Council in conjunction with Tusla, Dept of Children and Equality and the Gardai establish an appropriate and safe Refuge Centre for victims and survivors (mainly women) of domestic violence in Sligo and surrounding area.”

 

19.  DEFECTIVE CONCRETE BLOCKS SCHEME REDRESS:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council prepare a report to ensure the inclusion of the entire county of Sligo in the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme and that the scheme be revised to provide 100% redress to affected home owners. To also ask the department to include a mechanism to calculate the amount of redress on a per square metre basis so affected homeowners can reliably calculate costs taking into account construction price inflation.”

Director of Services, Mr Molloy advised the Members that an Action Plan regarding funding for Sligo is being finalised and will be sent to the Department for agreement this week, and the matter will be progressed at that stage. While the Council will push for 100% redress, the decision on this will be a matter for the Department.  Mr. Molloy added that the Action Plan will be circulated to the Members.

 

20.  CYCLE / PEDESTRIAN PATH BETWEEN RATHCORMAC & DRUMCLIFF CHURCHYARD:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask this council to carry out a survey and seek funding from the Department of Transport for a cycle/pedestrian path to be built between Rathcormac village and Drumcliff Churchyard.”

The Members were advised that a proposal for a cycle/pedestrian path between Rathcormac village and Drumcliff Churchyard could be considered under Sligo County Council’s Active Travel Programme.  However it should be noted that the Active Travel Programme is concentrating on the delivery of new footpaths and linkages within urban and village environments rather than along National Primary routes in rural areas.

Councillor Casserly thanked Director of Services for the report and asked that this matter be kept on the agenda with a view to being considered for funding in the short term.

Councillor Gilroy supported the motion and asked if this project could be considered for funding in the context of Regional Growth Centre status.

Director of Services, Mr Kilfeather, advised that it is hoped that over time this project can be funded under the Active Travel Programme, once the team is up and running and a plan put in place for projects to be delivered.

 

21.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS IN STRANDHILL:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to outline what steps can be taken to ensure pedestrian safety with regard to the crossings at the Rugby club, at the main car park and at the roundabout in Strandhill. These are not pedestrian crossings, which creates confusion for pedestrians and has resulted in several near misses. Are there plans to upgrade these to full pedestrian crossings? Inquiring as to whether there are any plans to upgrade the roundabout at Strandhill to ensure right of ways are observed and that pedestrians are protected when using it.”

The Members were advised that it is important to note that the crossings referred to above are pedestrian crossings, albeit uncontrolled crossings, where the pedestrian does not have priority over the vehicle and accordingly must make a decision on when it is safe to cross. 

It is intended that the crossing at the Rugby Club and those at the roundabout will be upgraded as part of the Council’s future Active Travel Plans for Strandhill Village.  These plans are at early design stage. 

Similarly, the crossing at the main car park will be considered in the context of the Strandhill Public Realm Enhancement Project – (RRDF Project).

Councillor Maguire stated that people are confused regarding rights of way at the pedestrian crossings and noted that the report did not address the issues at the roundabout at Strandhill.

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather, advised that this project can be looked at with a view to delivery under the Active Travel Programme.

 

22.  BUOYS ALONG OWENBEG RIVER WALK AT COOLANEY:

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to contact Water Safety Ireland and request that they carry out a risk assessment on the need for life saving ring buoys along the OwenBeg River walk at Coolaney.”

The Members were advised that ownership will need to be established.  If the Council is responsible for the area, a risk assessment can then be requested to determine what water safety measures should be put in place. However, if this property is in private ownership, a risk assessment and any follow up recommendations would be the responsibility of the land owner.

Councillor Gibbons added that lifebuoys should be located at all locations accessible to water.

 

23.  TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES AT KEENAGHAN, BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“I ask if Sligo County Council has any update on my previous NOM calling for traffic calming measures for residents living in Keenaghan, Ballymote.”

The Director of Services advised that the Council is not aware of complaints from the public about speeding in this area but will consider the request for inclusion in the 2022 application for the Safety Improvement Scheme grant.

Councillor Mulvey thanked the Director of Services and requested that this be included in the 2022 Road Works Scheme.

 

24.  REPORT ON HOUSING GRANTS:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the Director of Services to provide a report on the number of applications received, value of grants committed, and value of grant paid under the following.

  1. Housing aid for Older People Grant
  2. Mobility Aid Grant.
  3. Housing Adaptation Grant for People with Disability.”

The Members were provided with details of the number of private house grant applications received, value of grants committed and value of grants paid by Sligo County Council to date in 2021.

Councillor Mullaney thanked the Director of Services for the report and commended the technical and administrative staff for their work in this area. 

Councillor Gilroy supported the motion and queried whether there is a cut off point for grant applications and if monies approved but not used can be used for subsequent grant approvals.

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised that applications are still being taken and the overall budget for grants is being monitored with regard to monies committed and grants not yet claimed.  Mr. Molloy added that he will establish the timeframe for claiming grants and will revert to the Members on this issue.

 

25.  PROVISION OF 50M POOL IN SLIGO:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Maguire, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“This motion asks that Sligo County Council to engage with Sligo Leader to conduct a feasibility study to ascertain possible options towards establishing a 50m pool in Sligo and engage with all local stakeholders in this regard including, Sligo IT, Sligo Sports Partnership, Regional Sports Centre and the swimming and triathlon clubs.”

 

26.  CAMPER VAN AIRE ALONG THE QUAYS IN SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to investigate a possible location for a camper van aire along the quays in Sligo and conduct a feasibility study into its establishment.”

Director of Services, Mr Kilfeather, advised Members that, notwithstanding the increase in this form of tourism in 2020 and 2021, any consideration by the Council for provision of camper van facilities would have to take account of cost and resource implications, actual needs in this area and the ability of the private sector to provide such facilities at different locations throughout the county. Mr. Kilfeather added that the Council, in 2022, can consider engaging with owners of existing sites to establish future plans for their facilities to determine any further considerations in this matter.

Councillor Maguire thanked the Director for the report, which she regards as cautious, and stated that it would be good use of land in Council ownership, to develop a camper van aire in the vicinity of the Quays in Sligo town, as such a development would be close to all facilities

Councillor Walsh supported the motion and added that such a project could be included as part of a new Tourism Strategy.

Councillor Gibbons stated that while such a facility is needed, careful consideration should be given to its location.

Mr. Kilfeather stated that provision of such a facility will require investment and resources from the Council and, as is evident from today’s discussion around this issue, the Council will be proceeding with caution before making any decisions on this matter.

 

27.  PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL PARKING AND IMPROVED SET DOWN AREA AT COOLA SCHOOL:

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh and Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to engage with Coola Post Primary on the provision of additional parking and improved set down area at Coola as school numbers continue to grow and consider same for CLÁR funding application under the next programme.”

A report issued to the Members advised that the provision of parking and a set down area for cars is the responsibility of the school, and went on to state that if the Clár Grant Scheme is available in 2022, an application for funding the proposed measures can be submitted for consideration by the school.

Councillor Walsh and Councillor Baker noted the report and asked that this matter be prioritised for Clár Funding in 2022 due to the increased numbers attending the school.  They added that adequate parking and set down facilities are urgently required at the school.

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather stated that this project seems ideal for Clár funding and, with the Board of Management of Coola school and the Council working together on this, he would be hopeful that the project will be included for Clár funding in 2022.

 

28.  ACTION TO ADDRESS HEALTHCARE WAITING LISTS:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask this council to write to the (Fianna Fáil) Minister for Health to demand that the government take action to address healthcare waiting lists, which have spiralled out of control for far too long.”

Councillor Gibbons stated that following a recent survey carred out in relation to excessive hospital waiting lists and the delay in the rollout of universal healthcare, he has deep concerns on the effects and consequences of such delays on the mental and physical wellbeing of so many people throughout the country. 

Councillor O’Boyle supported the motion and described the sitaution nationally as intolerable.

 

29.  NO CONFIDENCE MOTION IN MINISTER COVENEY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Bree, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“Conscious that the proposed appointment of former Minister Katherine Zappone as Special Envoy on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, without a transparent process, amounted to cronyism and fell below the standard of Government expected by the public; and noting the failure of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Simon Coveney, to credibly explain the manner in which the proposed appointment was handled; and the failure of the Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, to sanction Minister Coveney; this Council commends those members of Dail Eireann who supported the recent motion of no confidence in Minister Coveney; and further we express our disapproval of those who voted confidence in Minister Coveney.”

 

30.  PROVISION OF EARLY MORNING COMMUTER RAIL SERVICES FROM LONGFORD TO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council again calls on Iarnród Éireann to provide an early morning commuter rail service from Longford serving all stations - Dromod, Carrick, Boyle, Ballymote, Collooney to Sligo, arriving in Sligo’s MacDiarmada Station before 9.00.a.m.”

Councillor Bree stated that the provision of an early morning train service from Longford to Sligo would benefit commuters and allow many third level students to commute to Sligo where no accommodation is available to them due to the ongoing shortage.  Councillor Bree added that this is a key piece of infrastructure which is badly needed in this region, and which has been called for over many years.

 

31.  REPORT ON COUNCIL’S INSPECTION OF PRIVATE RENTED ACCOMMODATION:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Bree, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“That a report be provided in regard to the Council’s inspection of private rented accommodation, the report to include:

  1. Details of inspection targets, if any were set, for the number of private rented properties to be inspected by the Council during 2018 and during 2019 (targets which may have been set at the start of the year)?
  2. The number of inspection reports arising from inspections of private rented properties made available to tenants during 2018 and during 2019?
  3. How many prohibition notices were issued by the Council during 2018 and during 2019 in relation to private rented properties?
  4. How many dwellings were inspected by the Council during 2018 and 2019? How many of those dwellings were found to be non compliant with the regulations for standards in private rented accommodation?
  5. The total number of private rented properties inspected during 2018 and 2019 as a proportion (percentage) of the total number of registered tenancies in the county?
  6. The average cost per inspection?
  7. The number of properties which were inspected proactively - ie not arising from complaints or concerns raised with the Council, nor as a result of the council's responsibility to inspect private rented properties under the HAP and RAS schemes?
  8. The details of the Council’s policy for identifying properties for inspection?
  9. The most common reasons for non compliance with standards regulations?
  10. The number of follow-up inspections carried out during 2018 and 2019?
  11. The number of improvement notices issued in relation to private rented properties?
  12. The number of prosecutions brought by the Council in respect of non compliance with the regulations for standards in private rented accommodation?”

 

32.  UPDATE REPORT ON N16 LUGATOBER ROAD DEVELOPMENT:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask this council for a report and update on the N16 Lugatober (Lugatober to Lugnagall) Road Development.”

Director of Services Mr Kilfeather outlined the current position with regards to land and house acquisition, advanced clearance & temporary fencing and design and construction contracts relating to the project. Members were advised that progression to construction will be subject to TII and Department of Transport approval.

Councillor Fox welcomed the report from the Director of Services and added that this is a crucial project for Sligo which he hopes will progress quickly.  

Mr. Kilfeather advised that the TII have been very supportive of this scheme and the Council will, in the next two weeks, make a request to progress the main construction contract to tender. If approval is forthcoming it would be reasonable to expect that construction could commence in 2022.

 

33.  CIVIL DEFENCE ACCOMMODATION:

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy and Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council together with the Department of Defence provide suitable permanent accommodation for the Civil Defence service where all equipment such as jeeps, boats, safety equipment and trailers are stored at a singular location for rapid deployment and to avoid wasting time.”    

Councillor Gilroy stated that he has been advised by Civil Defence members that it is unsuitable for staff and volunteers to have to travel between four different locations throughout Sligo to collect equipment, vehicles etc which is time consuming and costly. Councillor Gilroy added that the Civil Defence is a vital service to have in the County and that it would be a saving of time and money if one unit were to be provided for use by the Civil Defence, possibly funded by the Department of Defence.

Councillor Taylor concurred with Councillor Gilroy’s comments and added that the Civil Defence provide an invaluable service to the people of Sligo.

Director of Services, Mr Molloy advised that he will liaise with the Department regarding the options available to the Council and will update the Members on the issue.

The Chief Executive, Mr Lydon, advised the members that a costing would need to be done on the funding required to provide one suitable Civil Defence unit in the county and if funding were forthcoming from the Department of Defence, it would be in the region of 70% funding, with 30% match funding to be provided by the Council. If funds were to be made available for this service, savings would have to be made in other areas.

It was agreed to commence the process and await an update on the matter from the Director of Services.

 

34.  REVISION OF ONLINE PLANNING TOOLS ON COUNCIL WEBSITE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to revise the “Online Planning Tools” viewer section of the Council Planning website to

  • Either make files available on other more popular Web Browsers along with Internet Explorer or if not possible place a loud banner on the “Online Planning Tools” to show clearly that files can only be viewed on Internet Explorer

Clear old files from the “Online Planning Tools” so that files that are no longer current are limited on what can be viewed online, so that the system cannot be used for illegal purposes such as learning the layout of a building so as to assist in a robbery from a building.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke advised the Members that the Planning and I.T. sections are working with the LGMA to upgrade the planning document portal to use the Portable Document Format standard (pdf) from early October and files from that time onwards will be able to be viewed on any standard web browser. 

The current system does allow all planning files to be viewed using the Joint Photographic Experts Group format (.jpeg) which works on standard browsers and we will place a piece of text on the website to let users know that this is the case.

Section 38 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) sets out the statutory provisions on the availability for public inspection of documents relating to planning applications.  The planning authority is required to make the documents available for a period of not less than 7 years after the making of the planning decision

Councillor Gilroy and Councillor Fox welcomed the report on this item.

 

35.  CONNECTIONS TO NEW SEWAGE SCHEME FROM ROSSES POINT TO SLIGO MAIN DRAINAGE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Irish Water to work with Sligo County Council to ensure that the new Sewage System that will connect Rosses Point with Sligo Main Drainage Wastewater Treatment Plant will allow for dwellings new and existing along the route to join in with the new link and be brought directly to the Sligo Main Drainage Wastewater Treatment Plant. This would help to reduce the need for on-site wastewater treatment systems along the route and would reduce the risk of pollution along the route.”

In a report presented to Members, Irish Water provided an update on the new sewerage system that will connect Rosses Point with Sligo Town wastewater network and the timeline for commencement of the project.  

Councillor Gilroy noted the response from Irish Water and added that people should be encouaged to connect to the main sewerage system rather than to individual septic tanks.

Councillor Fox supported the motion and added that people should have the option of connecting to the main sewerage system but that this should not be forced upon them.

 

36.  REPORT ON NUMBER OF CAR CHARGING POINTS IN THE COUNTY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor O’Grady, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“That Sligo County Council outline the number of car charging points in the county, and outline what plans are in place to increase the number available to the public.”

 

37.  UPGRADING OF ROAD AND FOOTPATHS AT ASHGROVE, MAUGHERABOY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor O’Grady, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“That Sligo County Council include the upgrading of the road and footpaths at Ashgrove Maugheraboy in the road works programme for 2022.”

 

38.  INDEPENDENT DISABILITY ACCESS AUDIT ON ALL FOOTPATHS AND ROADS WITHIN THE  BOROUGH OF SLIGO TOWN:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commission an independent disability access audit on all the footpaths and roads within the full borough of Sligo town to use as a map with all further works to be carried out. This audit would also identify where essential disabled parking bays are also required.”

Director of Services, Mr Kilfeather, advised the Members that the Roads department engages regularly with local advocacy groups on access matters within and around the Sligo Urban area, and the Council considers that a more appropriate approach at this stage might be to engage in a formal manner with local advocacy groups and local representatives with a view to garnering their suggestions for short to medium term access improvements throughout Sligo Town.  This will enable the development of a programme for incremental improvement over the coming years.

Councillor Gibbons acknowledged the excellent work of the engineering staff and outdoor staff in the Borough area and added that if a disability access audit was carried out and a map put in place this would be advantageous going forward. 

Mr. Kilfeather, advised the Members that before an independent audit could be carried out, agreement would first have to be reached by all relevant parties on the issues to be addressed in the audit.  Mr. Kilfeather added that the Roads Department can arrange for a costing to carry out an independent audit, which can be discussed when the budgets are being drawn up.

It was agreed that a costing will be arranged which will go before the Disability Consultative Committee, for discussion with the Director of Services at that stage.

 

39.  APPLICATIONS TO THE RRDF FOR COLLOONEY AND BALLISODARE:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, the following amendment to this item was placed before the Members and it was:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council endorse the applications to the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund for Collooney, Ballisodare and Ballymote, in an effort to improve the village centres through re-designed public realm areas, walkways and addressing dereliction in both villages.

That we write to the Minister for Rural and Community Development, the Tánaiste, An Taoiseach and Óireachtas members in Sligo/Leitrim relative to same.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke informed the Members that three RRDF Category 2 applications were submitted to the Dept. of Rural & Community Development (DRCD) and no announcement date on successful applications as of yet had been advised.  Ms. Clarke, presented an outline of the applications submitted for Ballysadare, Collooney and Ballymote, and the issues to be addressed within each of these three areas.  

Councillor Walsh stated that RRDF funding will be of substantial benefit to the three areas and it is vital that these communities are successful in their bid for RRDF funding.

 

40.  PLAN TO FACILITATE THE NEEDS OF CAMPER VANS FOR THE 2022 SEASON:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor O’Grady, was deferred to the November Ordinary meeting:

“That Sligo County Council as a matter of urgency commence putting in place a plan to facilitate the needs of camper vans for 2022 season.”

 

41.  FUNDING UNDER ACTIVE TRAVEL PROGRAMME:

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

AND AGREED

“In March 2022 just under €2.6million was announced for Sligo under the Active Travel Programme.

I ask Sligo County Council to provide update on all schemes, spend to date and projected timeline for completion of all projects.

Project Code: Sligo 

  • Cycle parking €50,000
  • New Footpath Schemes A - Strandhill, Grange, Carney €195,000
  • New Footpath Schemes B - Ballygawley, Ballintogher, Coolaney , Rockfield, Collooney, Ballinafad, Carraroe €355,000
  • New Footpath Schemes C - Enniscrone, Geevagh, Tubbercurry, Sligo City €245,000
  • Footpath Improvement Schemes - Various locations in the City €400,000
  • Safe to Schools Programme - Support Infrastructure €100,000
  • Low Cost Junction Tightening/Pedestrian Crossing Schemes €300,000
  • Light Segregation Cycle Schemes €100,000
  • Transport Studies/ Urban Mobility Plans/Active Travel Network Plans €275,000
  • Low Cost Permeability Measures €100,000 SO/21/0011 
  • Walking/Cycle Scheme €100,000 SO/21/0012
  • Footbridge Review €100,000 
  • IT Sligo to Hyde Bridge Walking/Cycling scheme €100,000 
  • Covid projects - permanent works €50,000
  • Upgrade Existing Junctions to an Urban Traffic Control system €125,000

Total €2,595,000.”

The Members were presented with an outline of the Active Travel Programme which was announced in March 2021.  The report advised that a full update of the status of each project listed can be provided if required.

Councillor Walsh noted his disappointment with the overall response to his motion, and requested an update on the status of all projects procured under this scheme. Cllr Walsh asked that this motion be placed on the November Ordinary agenda where an update could be provided at that stage.

 

42.  SPEECH & LANGUAGE / OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AT HOLY FAMILY PRESCHOOL:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the HSE/CDNT to reinstate speech & language therapy and occupational therapy to Holy Family Preschool.”

Councillor O’Boyle called on speech & language therapy and occupational therapy services to be reinstated at the Holy Family Preschool as a matter of urgency.

Councillor Bree supported he motion and added that he hoped this issue can be resolved at the earliest opportunity.

 

43.  DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LEAVE POLICY:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo Council to develop a Domestic Violence Leave policy if not already done and to support sligo businesses/organisations to do likewise.”

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised the Members that Sligo County Council’s existing leave policies will be reviewed with a view to including appropriate provisions relating to Domestic Violence leave. The Council has no role in advising private businesses in relation to leave policies.

 

44.  ADDRESS STUDENT HOUSING / ACCOMMODATION CRISIS ACROSS STATE:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris and Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien to take immediate action to rectify the current student housing/accommodation crisis that is affecting thousands of students across the state.”

Councillor O’Boyle outlined the harrowing consequences for students not able to secure accommodation across the state and described the situation as deplorable and an unacceptable way to treat the youth of this country.

Councillor Bree endorsed Councillor O’Boyle’s comments and added that the situation needs to be resolved as a matter of urgency.  

The members supported this motion.

 

45.  WORKS TO ROAD AND FOOTPATHS IN THORNHILL:

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

AND AGREED

“That the roads department of this Council would carry out a full survey of what work need to be done to bring the road & footpaths in Thornhill up to a safe standard for the residents of the estate.” 

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather advised that an inspection of the roads and footpaths in Thornhill Estate will be carried out over the coming weeks and if it is determined that upgrading works are necessary at this location, these works will be considered during the preparation of future road works programmes.

Councillor Gibbons stated that this is an issue that needs to be addressed quickly.

 

46.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Votes of Sympathy were recorded.

 

47.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

No item was raised under this heading.

 

48.  CONFERENCES / TRAINING:

The Members noted the details as furnished to them in advance of the meeting.

 

49.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

There were no items under this heading due to Covid-19 restrictions and non attendance by Members at Conferences/Training.

 

50.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

 

51.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

52.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

The Cathaoirleach informed the members that the deputy editor of the Sligo Weekender, Mr. John Bromley is covering today’s Council meeting for the last time.

The Cathaoirleach said John has made a massive contribution to Sligo via fair, accurate and professional reporting, week after week.

His reporting from this chamber has brought the concerns and views of Sligo's councillors to the people of the county, which was of the highest standard.

John is a true legend of journalism here in the North West, having been the editor of the Donegal Democrat from 1987 to 2002.  After his distinguished career, he will hang up his journalist's hat on Wednesday evening when this week's Sligo Weekender goes to print.

The Cathaoirleach, on behalf of the Elected Members and staff, thanked John for his service to the Council meetings and wished him a long and happy retirement.

The Members joined with the Cathaoirleach in wishing Mr. Bromley well in his retirement and thanked him for all his help and support to them, and for his fair and accurate reporting of Council meetings over the years.  

The Chief Executive, Mr. Martin Lydon, on behalf of the Executive of Sligo County Council, wished Mr. Bromley all the best in the next chapter of his life and thanked him for his fair and accurate reporting of the meetings, which is extremely important when dealing with democracy in our country.

 

END OF MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach thanked the Members for their co-operation at the meeting and encouraged everyone to stay safe. 

The business of the meeting concluded at 12.00 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 11/10/2021