Minutes 2021

Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday 6th December 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(R),
  • Councillor Gibbons,
  • Councillor Gilroy,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor Maguire(R),
  • Councillor Mullaney(R),
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor O’Grady,
  • Councillor Queenan, Taylor,
  • Councillor Walsh.

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

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
  • Jim Molloy, Director of Services
  • Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services (C)
  • Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services(C)
  • Marie Whelan, Head of Finance(R)
  • Seán Martin, A/Senior Architect(C),
  • Donal Tinney, County Librarian(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 MacSharry.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting.

Members participating remotely were Councillor Casserly, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Fox, Councillor Maguire and Councillor Mullaney.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF BALLYMOTE / TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 20TH SEPTEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Ballymote/Tubbercurry Municipal District Meeting held on 20th September 2021.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP HELD ON 13TH OCTOBER, 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Corporate Policy Group meeting held on 13th October 2021.”

 

3.  MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE / TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT BUDGET MEETING HELD ON 1ST NOVEMBER, 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Ballymote/Tubbercurry Municipal District Budget Meeting held on 1st November 2021.”

 

4.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SCC HELD ON 1ST NOVEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 1st November 2021.”

 

5.  MINUTES OF STATUTORY BUDGET MEETING OF SCC HELD ON 22ND NOVEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm minutes of Statutory Budget Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 22nd November 2021.”

 

6.  DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 16 COIS NA HABHAINN, GURTEEN, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 16 Cois na hAbhainn, Gurteen, Co Sligo to Ms Laura Maheady.”

 

7.  DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT BALLINTEMPLE, BALLINFULL, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at Ballintemple, Ballinfull, Co Sligo to Ms Lorraine O’Connor Currid.”

 

8.  TAKING IN CHARGE – EARL’S COURT, BALLYMOTE, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

9.  BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT (BID) BUDGET 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“Business Improvement District (BID) Budget 2022 – to determine the rate of the BID Levy and the Council collection charge.”

 

10.  DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 41 PARKLANDS, TUBBERCURRY, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 41 Parklands, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo to Ms Linda Kelly.”

 

11.  DISPOSAL OF SCC LANDS AT MAUGHERABOY, SLIGO:

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of Sligo County Council Lands @ Maugheraboy Sligo, Co Sligo to Kingsbridge Healthcare Group.”

Following a discussion it was:

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

AND AGREED

“That we proceed with the disposal of the lands referred to in the Section 183 Notice, to Kingsbridge Private Hospital for a consideration of €57,500 and that the additional €30,000 income from the sale be allocated to the Parks Department for the improvement of our public parks.”

 

12.  NOMINATION TO THE DISABILITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“To confirm the nomination of Mr. PJ Cleere, Disability Federation of Ireland to the Disability Consultative Committee, as endorsed by the Housing and Corporate SPC meeting on 28th September 2021.”

 

13.  CONTRIBUTION TO THE ARTS GRANTS SCHEME 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the recommendations of the Arts Assessment Committee to the reallocation of funds under the Contribution to the Arts Grants Scheme 2021.”

 

14.  DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 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 property at No 1 Charles Street, Sligo to Mr Mark Barron and Mr Keith Wilson.”

 

15.  PART 8 PROPOSED HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AT ROBBERS LANE, MAUGERABOY:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To consider Chief Executive’s Report and Recommendation to proceed with the proposed Social Housing Development at Robbers Lane, Maugheraboy, Sligo pursuant to Section 179(3) and 179(4) of Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).”

 

16.  PROVISION OF CAS FUNDING TO SLIGO SOCIAL SERVICE CO. LTD. FOR MCAULEY HOUSE, 5A CHARLES STREET, SLIGO:

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 Sligo Social Service Council Company Limited by Guarantee, in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme in the value of €684,673 for Mc Auley House, 5A Charles Street, Sligo.”

 

17.  PROVISION OF CAS FUNDING TO RESPOND FOR DWELLING AT KILMORGAN, CASTLEBALDWIN, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
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 Respond in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme in the value of €199,787 for Dwelling at Kilmorgan, Castlebaldwin, Co.Sligo.”

 

18.  PROVISION OF CAS FUNDING TO BANADA TOURLESTRANE HOUSING ASSOCIATION FOR DWELLING AT TOURLESTRANE, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance to Banada Tourlestrane Housing Association Company Limited by Guarantee, in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme in the value of €35,340 for Dwelling at Tourlestrane, Co.Sligo.”

 

19.  PROVISION OF CAS FUNDING TO NEWGROVE HOUSING ASSOCIATION FOR DWELLING AT “LARASSA”, STRANDHILL ROAD, SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
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 Newgrove Housing Association, in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme in the value of €655,285 for Dwelling at “Larassa”, Strandhill Road, Sligo.”

 

20.  PROPOSED SOCIAL HOUSING PPP DEVELOPMENT AT RATHELLEN, FINISKLIN, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the report & presentation to update the Members on the progress of the proposed 63 dwelling Social Housing PPP Development at Rathellen, Finisklin Sligo in advance of the of the publication of the planning submission to An Bord Pleanála.”

 

21.  DATE FOR JANUARY 2022 MONTHLY MEETING:

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

AND AGREED

“To set a date for the January 2022 Monthly meeting.”

It was agreed to convene the January 2022 Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council on Monday 17th January 2022 at 10.00 a.m. in the Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.

 

22.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for October 2021.”

 

23.  DEVELOPMENT OF SURFING ACCOMMODATION ON FORMER IDA LANDS AT EASKEY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Queenan and Councillor Clarke, was deferred until the January Ordinary Meeting.

 

24.  ESTABLISHMENT OF 50M SWIMMING POOL IN SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“This motion asks that Sligo County Council 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.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke advised that discussions can be held with the LAG (Local Action Group / LCDC) for the consideration of an application for funding to Sligo LEADER to carry out a feasibility study towards establishing a 50m pool in Sligo.

 

25.  IMPROVED WALKING & CYCLING FACILITIES BETWEEN BALLINODE AND HAZELWOOD FOREST & SURROUNDS:

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

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 advised of an initial allocation of €2,595,000 to Sligo County Council under the Active Travel programme, a five year rolling programme which was announced in March 2021. A staffing structure to deliver the overall programme has been agreed with the NTA and it is expected to have a dedicated team in place in County Sligo to implement this programme by the end of 2021 or early 2022.

The report included details of the Local Transport Plan for Sligo City & Environs to identify details of further Active Travel projects to be carried out in this area, and also provided an update on the status of works and funding streams for various projects to be carried out throughout the county under the Active Travel Programme.

 

26.  GRANTS/FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS IN CO SLIGO:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Clarke, was deferred until the January Ordinary Meeting.

 

27.  UPDATE FROM NATIONAL BROADBAND IRELAND ON ROLLOUT OF HIGH-SPEED BROADBAND IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy and Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council seek an updated report from National Broadband Ireland on the rollout of high-speed Broadband in County Sligo. The report to include:

  1. Update on the delivery of the 2513 underserved premises in the current deployment area that NBI expected to serve by the end of Q4 2021. (Reply to Motion 52 1st Feb 2021 Motion)
  2. The list of areas that will be next in line and when delivery is expected to be completed in these areas.
  3. Of the 14,800 premises listed as not having access to high-speed broadband how many will see delivery in each of the next three years,
    • 2022
    • 2023
    • 2024”

Councillor Gilroy noted his disappointment that the National Broadband rollout plan is falling behind from the published timeframe.

Councillor Gilroy requested that a report received from National Broadband Ireland be circulated to the Members for their information.

 

28.  WORKS TO ROAD R291 AT CARTRON:

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

AND AGREED

“That the following works would be carried out on the R291 in the interest of safety.

That the 3 wooden ESB poles adjacent to the road close to the entrance of Cartron Heights be reinstalled further back from the roadside kerb & that a yellow box would be installed on the road for traffic exiting Cartron Heights & where the R291 Road narrows at least 150 metres back from the junction of Scotsman’s walk towards Cartron direction, warning reflectors or other form of safety measures would be put in place to warn of road narrowing, also measure be put into place to make motorists aware while travelling from Rosses Point direction via Scotsman’s walk that they are very likely to meet pedestrian on the corner of the junction as this road has become very popular for people walking.”

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather advised that the Roads Department will liaise with the ESB regarding relocation of the ESB poles in question although it is anticipated that such costs would be quite considerable.

The Area Engineer will examine the need for a yellow box at the junction of the R291/ Carton Heights to facilitate traffic exiting the estate during peak traffic times and will establish the need for additional signage and/or safety measures for inbound traffic along the R291. 

Councillor Gibbons expressed his disappointment that the relocation of the ESB poles in question had not yet happened, despite having been given a commitment from the Council that this matter would be dealt with.

Councillor Gibbons requested an update on his previous request to having traffic calming measures installed at Scotsman’s Walk, a popular walking area for locals. Mr. Kilfeather advised that he will revert to Councillor Gibbons on this matter.

 

29.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON R293 ADJACENT TO THE PARK IN BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“Following on from my motion that was unanimously agreed March of this year, calling on the Roads Department of this County Council to start procedures to have a pedestrian crossing installed on R293 adjacent to the Park in Ballymote, in the interest of health and safety, particularly for young children and the elderly crossing the road to and from the Park. Could we have an updated progress report?”

The Members were advised that an application for funding a pedestrian crossing has been made to the Department of Transport for the 2022 Safety Improvement Grant.

 

30.  LEGISLATION AROUND INSURANCE REGAULATION:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Gibbons, was deferred to the January Ordinary meeting.

 

31.  UPDATE FROM IRISH WATER ON GROUNDWATER INVESTIGATION PROGRAMME REGARDING WATER SOURCES IN NORTH SLIGO:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Healy, was deferred to the January Ordinary meeting.

 

32.  FUNDING FOR RENOVATION, REPAIR AND DREDGING OF LA PIERS & HARBOURS IN THE COUNTY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Gilroy, was deferred to the January Ordinary meeting.

 

33. ROAD SAFETY AUDIT IN VILLAGE OF BALLISODARE / MEASURES OF ADDRESS SPEED ISSUES THROUGH VILLAGE:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council carry out a Road Safety Audit in the village of Ballisodare and make infrastructural improvements to address the speed of vehicles coming through the village and the safety of pedestrians crossing the road.”

A report circulated to the Members advised that initial contact has been made with TII regarding the provision of a pedestrian crossing on the N59 in Ballisodare. Any project of this nature is subject to the approval of the TII and the provision of appropriate funding from the TII to complete the weeks.

Councillor Casserly requested that this matter be kept on the agenda with a view to having the requested works carried out as a priority for the safety of pedestrians and school children in the village.

Councillor Healy supported the motion and added that the provision of a pedestrian crossing in Ballisodare needs to be prioritised, and a pedestrian crossing should be considered at the school in Collooney.

 

34.  RENAMING OF CLARION ROAD TO UNIVERSITY ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commence the process of re-naming Clarion Road University Road.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke advised that this motion will be considered at the next meeting of the Placenames Committee in Q1 2022, following which the recommendation of the Placenames Committee can be considered by Sligo County Council at the next available monthly meeting.

Clarity was sought around a previous request to rename this road after Jack B. Yeats. Councillor Taylor, as Chair of the Placenames Committee, advised that he will revert to the Members on this issue.

 

35.  CALL FOR EXCAVATION OF FORMER MOTHER AND BABY HOME SITE AND SURROUNDING AREAS IN TUAM:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the government for a full excavation of the former Mother and Baby home site and surrounding areas in Tuam as a matter of urgency and use DNA to identify the remains.” 

Councillor O’Boyle called for justice for the atrocities inflicted on the many women and children who died in the mother and baby homes and the 796 children still unaccounted for. Councillor O’Boyle added that the reality of the situation was not reflected in the Mother & Baby report, and requested that the institutions in receipt of state payments from this time should have their proceeds seized.  

Councillor Bree, in seconding the motion, stated that the occurrences in the Tuam Mother & Baby home mark a shameful chapter in Ireland’s recent history and called for the excavation of the site in Tuam as a matter of urgency in order that DNA can be used to identify the remains.

 

As items 36 and 38 related to similar matters, the Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would take both items at this time.

36.  & 38.  REVIEW OF PUBLIC LIGHTING AT CLARION ROAD, THE MALL, HAZELWOOD ROAD AND BALLYTIVNAN ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“As highlighted by IT Sligo Students Union that Sligo County Council conduct a review of public lighting in the following areas of Sligo Town: Clarion Road, The Mall, Hazelwood Road and Ballytivnan Road to ensure the safety of students on these busy walking routes.” 

 

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

AND AGREED

“To request that Sligo County Council address the need for enhanced street lighting at Clarion Road, Mall Road, Hazelwood Road and Ballytivnan Road.”

In a report circulated to the Members, Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather advised that Sligo County Council can request its maintenance Contractor, Electric Skyline to survey the areas in question, but noted that there is no budget for any additional public lighting at these locations.

Councillor Walsh stated that an alternative source of funding to address these issues might be through the LED refit programme. Councillor O’Grady also suggested that the IT students contact the Sligo BID office to establish if they have funding streams available for such works.

Mr. Kilfeather added that while funding for such works presents a challenge, there may be opportunities under the LED refit programme, as suggested by Councillor Walsh and, in the years ahead, under the Active Travel Programme.

 

37.  REVIEW OF PUBLIC LIGHTING AT CLARION ROAD, THE MALL, HAZELWOOD ROAD AND BALLYTIVNAN ROAD:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor MacSharry, was deferred until the January Ordinary Meeting:

 

39.  COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council and Sligo LEADER Partnership to put a plan of action in place and to engage with the wider community in Ballymote for the purposes of reviving and establishing a new vibrant community organisation that would be the catalyst for community development projects. Ballymote always had a good track record in community development for many years, but this seems to have waned. Action is needed now to halt the decline further. I am calling on Sligo Leader Partnership to become involved using the various programmes that it operates.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke updated the Members on funding streams and training opportunities available to the various community groups in Ballymote that are registered with the PPN. Ms. Clarke advised that Sligo County Council continues to work with these groups in relation to the delivery of significant improvements in different areas to benefit the town. As Ballymote’s community development sector has not been as active recently as in the past, Ms. Clarke advised that the Council has liaised with Sligo Leader Partnership in a bid to facilitate revival of this sector in Ballymote through the ‘Innovating Communities’ training programme to assess the development of the town.

Tributes were paid to all the volunteers who are involved in the various groups and committees in Ballymote for the betterment of their community.

 

40.  CREATION OF DIGITAL LAB FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE IN SLIGO TOWN:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to explore with their partners the creation of a digital lab for Children and Young People in Sligo Town.

These digital labs operating throughout the country are engaging young people through a range of digital mediums including Digital Art, Creative Coding/Robotics, Music, 3D Design/Printing, Animation/Gif creation, Game Design, STEAM, VR, Graphic Design and much more.

That Sligo Council engage with stakeholders such as Foróige, The Local Enterprise Office, MSLETB, Economic Department within LA, Sligo Leader with a view to create such a digital space.” 

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, advised that Sligo Libraries currently run Coding, Robotics, Programming, Design, Animation and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Maths) events for children and young people, as part of its annual programme of events, with workshops scheduled around the many Library Activity Programmes such as Right to Read Campaign, Cruinniú na nÓg, Science Week, Creative Ireland, Engineers Week etc.

The Library Service has:

  • Since 2016, been a Community Partner of Sligo Science Festival, produced by IT Sligo and supported by Science Foundation Ireland. As part of the Science Festival programme library branches host events during the Festival.
  • Delivered programmes offered and/or recommended by Engineers Ireland.
  • Secured funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development, through the Dormant Accounts Fund, for projects relating to Digital Equity and Social Inclusion, which allowed the purchase of 3d Printers for three libraries in Sligo; Sligo Central Library, Ballymote Community Library and Tubbercurry Community Library.

In addition, due to Covid restrictions, online events are being organised for families and school children and for online events requiring materials, kits are collected in advance from the Library.

The Local Enterprise Office has also been in contact with MSLETB, LEADER and colleagues within the Council regarding this matter. A meeting is to be convened shortly to consider the current provision, including those that are organised through the Library and through the LEO in a context of business supports. 

Councillor Walsh thanked the Director for the report and added that, following positive dialogue with the ETB, Foróige and the LEO office, a location for a digital lab has recently been identified in Sligo town, subject to funding for a co-ordinator and tutors to run this programme.   

Councillor Casserly, in seconding the motion, suggested that graduates from Sligo Technological University Computing Department could be added to the list of resources available to assist in the running of the digital lab.

Councillor Maguire asked that primary and post-primary schools be included in engagements with relevant stakeholders on this project, as this cohort will be the primary groups availing of such a facility.

 

41.  FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO AGENCY CARERS DUE TO RISING COSTS:

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

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the HSE and the Minister for Finance Pascal Donohoe to provide assistance to Agency Carers who use their own cars to visit the elderly and sick living at home and alone, to offer assistance particularly in light of rising fuel prices they are enduring.  It would be wrong for such an important segment of our health care community to find themselves having to experience an income cut as costs, over which they have no control, continue to rise. They provide an invaluable service that saves the HSE money and perhaps more importantly, their social skills are even more valuable and more important, particularly for the elderly who live alone.”

 

42.  INCREASE RRDF FUNDING FROM 75% TO 90% FOR LOCAL AUTHORITIES IN THE NWRA:

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

AND AGREED

“Ask the Minister Rural and Community Development to increase the funding under RRDF fund from 75 to 90 per cent for the local authorities in the Northern & Western Regional Assembly area now identified as a Region in Transition so as to ensure that projects can be funded at local level.”

The Members were advised that the level of grant aid for the RRDF has been set at 75% of eligible expenditure.  Matching funding of 25% will be required for the successful RRDF & URDF projects approved to date for Sligo, which will present a challenge for Sligo County Council over the next number of years.

 

43.  CLARITY ON FITTING OF SMART METERS IN HOMES:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council should write to the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan, TD and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, to seek clarification if people are obliged to have smart meters fitted in their homes which are rolling out for installation across the region at present and if householders can decline their installation.”

 

44.  REVIEW OF INCOME THRESHOLDS FOR TENANT PURCHASE & AFFORDABLE HOUSING SCHEMES:

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

AND AGREED

“Given that the Government has failed in the budget to provide for a review of the income levels for qualification for social housing, that has not been revised since 2011; given that the cost of living has doubled in this time; given that politicians are advising and households are endeavouring to keep their income below €27,500 by not taking up, and indeed reducing their work hours so as to meet the income levels that will keep them qualifying for housing, HAP, Medical Cards and all the supports that they would lose; given that nothing has been done for the squeezed middle, with income levels between €27,500 up to €50,000, unable to secure mortgages and with rising rents, I call on this Council to seek a meeting with the Minister for Housing Mr O’Brien to have a review of the income thresholds, the tenant purchase scheme and affordable housing.”

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor advised the Members that he will seek a meeting with the Minister for Housing with a delegation from Sligo County Council on this important issue.

 

45.  EXTENSION OF GREENWAY ON CLOSED RAILWAY FROM BELLAGHY TO CLAREMORRIS:

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

AND AGREED

“Given that the planned construction of two major and interconnecting greenways in the region will connect Bellaghy in South Sligo and Sligo City with the Northern Ireland Greenway Network at Enniskillen, it is desirable for sustainable jobs and business opportunities in the county that the greenway network should as far as possible connect with other greenway infrastructure in the North West. I propose that Sligo County Council CE request a meeting with his opposite number in Mayo County Council to examine whether the latter body might explore the possibility of extending the greenway on the closed railway from Bellaghy to Claremorris, to develop the longest such piece of infrastructure in Ireland. If such development were to take place, it could easily be connected from Swinford with the Great Western Greenway via Turough House. There are no plans and there is no possible source of funding to build a railway on the former rail route between Claremorris and Bellaghy, but there is funding available for a greenway, which would furthermore protect the route from loss to public ownership until such future time as a railway might be possible.”

Following a discussion on this motion, a vote was called by the Cathaoirleach.

The result of the vote was as follows:

FOR:                    11

AGAINST:             6

ABSTAIN:             0

The Cathaoirleach declared the motion carried.

 

46.  ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR ON THE MALL, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“In light of the ongoing anti-social behaviour which occurs regularly on The Mall, this motion requests that this Council establish a forum of stakeholders to include An Garda Síochána, IT Sligo, residents and business owners to address these problems and erect signage along the Mall to remind people that this is a residential area and people need to be mindful of this particular after 10pm.”

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy advised that the matter will be placed on the agenda of the next JPC meeting for their consideration.

 

47.  REDUCTION OF VRT ON IMPORTED ELECTRIC VEHICLES / ROLL OUT OF FAST CHARGING POINTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY:

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

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

AND AGREED

“Given the government’s intention to increase the number of electrical vehicles on our roads as part of their climate action plan, this motion asks Sligo County Council to write to the Department of the Environment and request them to liaise with the Department of Finance to reduce the VRT on imported electric vehicles and roll out fast chargers across the country to ensure purchasing an electric vehicle is viable for as many people as possible.”

 

48.  NEW REGIONAL VET LABORATORY IN SLIGO:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Healy, was deferred until the January Ordinary Meeting:

 

49.  UPDATE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF VACANT HOMES ACTION PLAN:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with an update on the implementation of the Vacant Homes Action Plan and that a map showing occupied and unoccupied properties in the Borough area (and other areas if available) be circulated to councillors.”

The Members were advised of the background and the key objectives of the Vacant Homes Action Plan, prepared by the Planning Department in 2018. Details were provided on the number of residential properties inspected and the percentage determined to be vacant. The owners of the vacant properties have been advised of the options available to them to return their properties to productive use and have also been informed of the Council’s powers to Compulsory Purchase properties. Ms. Clarke advised that in 2021 the Council’s Vacant Homes Office Compulsorily Purchased two vacant homes which are in the process of being returned to productive use.

Councillor Bree noted the discrepancy between the number of vacant properties recorded by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the Sligo County Council statistics and asked if this discrepancy had been brought to the attention of the CSO. Director of Services, Ms. Clarke advised that the Council has been in contact with the CSO regarding numbers of vacant properties and noted that the CSO data was gathered in 2016. 

Councillor Bree queried if Council staff had physically called to all 7,896 properties that were inspected to ascertain which properties were vacant, and asked for a list of all vacant properties to be provided. Ms. Clarke advised that she will clarify this and revert to Councillor Bree, who requested a response to this query in advance of the next SPC1 meeting

Regarding the map provided showing vacant properties in Sligo town, and the provision of a list detailing all vacant properties in the town, Ms. Clarke advised that under GDPR Guidelines the Council cannot provide addresses for individual vacant houses. A different means of providing more specific data on vacant properties within GDPR guidelines can be explored and the Members will be kept updated on this matter.

 

50.  PROPOSED NEW MASTERPLAN FOR THE WINE STREET CAR PARK AREA:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with an update on the proposed new Masterplan for the Wine Street Car park area.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke updated the Members on the current status of the proposed masterplan which, Ms. Clarke advised, is nearing competion and will be included as part of the proposed Draft County Development Plan 2023 – 2029 which will be circulated to the Members next year before being placed on public display as part of the Draft Plan.

 

51.  UPDATE ON SEABED SURVEY OF SLIGO HARBOUR & PROGRESS REPORT ON DEVELOPMENT OF THE PORT:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with an update on the seabed survey of Sligo Harbour in addition to a progress report on the development of the port.”

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather informed the Members that following a recent seabed survey, volumes of silt in the Harbour Channel are essentially the same as they were in 2011 when the last seabed survey was carried out.

The current ‘Dumping at Sea Permit’ – valid until July 2025 – facilitates dredging of the Harbour Channel and the area around Deepwater Jetty. The cost of this work could amount to €5.5m excl. VAT and funding for such works would likely have to come from the Council’s own resources.

The report included an update on works that have been carried out in and around Sligo Port during 2021, together with updates on navigational aids leading to and from Sligo Port, and the Oyster Island Lighthouse. A total of 19 ships have docked at Sligo Harbour this year to date, with a further 3 ships scheduled to arrive between now and year end.

Councillor Bree, noting the high costs involved for carrying out dredging works in Sligo Harbour, hoped that funding for such works may be obtained from grant aid under new EU policies currently being developed for low carbon transport infrastructure.  

Councillor O’Boyle, as seconder of the motion, requested that a meeting be arranged with the Harbour Board to discuss the matters raised in this motion.  The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor confirmed that a meeting with the Harbour Board will be scheduled.

 

52.  EXTENSION OF CLEVERAGH CAR PARK:

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

AND AGREED

“That this local authority would look at making provisions or extend the existing car park at Cleveragh car park, the area known as the boathouse or landing stage, to accommodate anglers visiting with Boats and Trailers for fishing competitions or pleasure boating.”

The Members were advised that the lands at Boat House Quay are located within the Lough Gill SAC.  As such, any proposal for extending the hard surfaced parking area would have to be carefully considered to determine any potential effects on the conservation objectives of that SAC.  If an appropriate assessment is required to be carried out, it would mean that the consenting authority is An Bord Pleanala.

 

53.  FUNDING FOR: PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY KNOWN AS MUD-LANE CARTRON BAY & DEVELOPMENT OF FORESHORE AREA

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Gibbons, was deferred until the January Ordinary Meeting.

 

54.  PROSPECTING LICENCE TO FLINTRIDGE RESOURCES (GALANTAS) FOR ALMOST 50 TOWNLANDS IN NORTH LEITRIM:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls upon Minister Eamon Ryan to refuse to grant a prospecting license to Flintridge Resources (Galantas) for almost 50 townlands in North Leitrim. We stand with communities in Leitrim who have voiced their clear opposition to this carbon heavy, energy intensive gold mining industry. We also stand with our colleagues in Leitrim County Council who unanimously voiced their opposition to the granting of this license. Companies like the one to which the Minister intends to grant a license have no role to play in helping create a sustainable future for this and future generations in the region. The industry is long associated with negative impacts on the landscape, air and water quality, carbon emissions, and the displacement of and/or negative impacts on existing industries like tourism and agriculture. We ask the Minister to listen to the thousands of people who have made objections to this proposal. We also encourage other local authorities around the country to voice their opposition.”

 

55.  EXPENDITURE FOR THREE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT AREAS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council put in place as a matter of urgency a system to ensure that each of the three Municipal Districts gets a fair share of expenditure across all departments linked to population numbers. This system to be put in place during 2022 to ensure that all areas are treated equally in the 2023 and subsequent budgets.”

Head of Finance, Ms. Whelan, advised the Members that this will be considered as part of the 2023 Budget Process in consultation with Directors and Members in relation to the Annual Service Plan and Schedule of Municipal District Works for priorities within each district.

 

56.  MEETING WITH PLANNING REGULATOR PRIOR TO NEW CDP TO DISCUSS URGENT NEED FOR ADDITIONAL HOUSING IN COUNTY SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council invite the Office of The Planning Regulator to meet with Members and Officials to discuss what Members can do both in the short and medium term to alleviate the urgent need for additional housing in County Sligo”.

This meeting should look at how this can be done prior to approval of the next development plan considering Sligo is falling 300 units per year behind targets so far and what can be done to ensure Sligo does not fall further behind during the term of the new Development Plan.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, advised the Members that the upcoming review of the CDP will provide a further opportunity to ensure that sufficient land is available to meet current and future housing demands. However, despite sufficient zoned lands being available, it is clear that residential developments are not coming on stream, for various reasons outlined in the report. While the Office of the Planning Regulator does not have any remit in addressing these issues, they do provide advice and guidance to Councils in the Development Planning Function.

The Cathaoirleach advised that a meeting will be sought with the Planning Regulator’s office to ensure Sligo meets its housing targets as set out in the National Planning Framework.

 

57.  UPGRADE OF CLARION ROAD BETWEEN BALLINODE COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION AND BALLYTIVNAN ROUNDABOUT:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Roads department of this Local Authority carry out the necessary upgrade of the Clarion Road, between Ballinode College of Further Education and the Ballytivnan Roundabout adjacent to St, Josephs School.”

Director of Services, Mr. Kilfeather informed the Members that it is proposed that during 2022 the Council’s Road Design office will prepare an overall design for Clarion Road under the Active Travel Programme.

 

58.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Votes of Sympathy were recorded.

 

In addition, the Cathaoirleach extended sympathies on behalf of the Elected Members to our colleague Ms. Emer Connolly and to her family on the recent passing of her father, Jimmy Kilgannon, may he Rest in Peace.

The Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, on behalf of the staff of Sligo County Council, also wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy extended to Emer on the passing of her father.

The Cathaoirleach also wished to convey sympathies on behalf of the Elected Members to the family of our former colleague Padraig Mullarkey, on his recent passing.  May he Rest in Peace.

 

59.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulation be extended to the Phoenix Players in Tubbercurry on their recent success in winning the Confined Section of the One Act Drama in Ennis, Co. Clare and to their producer Tom Walsh and cast.  Congratulations and well done to all involved”  

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulation be extended to Bridie Gallagher, Creevymore, Cliffoney and Jim Gray of River Road, Cartron, Sligo on their success on being included in the “Ireland’s Own” Anthology of Short Stories.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulation be extended to all involved in the application for WHS Tentative list, c/o Dorothy Clarke, Planning, Community & Economic Development, Arts & Culture Department, on their successful application to have the Sligo Neolithic Landscape added to the Tentative List for World Heritage Site Status.  Congratulations are also included to the Sligo Neolithic Landscape Group on their excellent work.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of contratulation be extended to Robert Lindsay on his recent retirement from Sligo County Council after many years of loyal service. Robert worked so well with the various community groups and will be a lost treasure to Sligo County Council.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulation be extended to Frankie Quinn, Manager of the Shamrock Gaels Under 17 Team on winning the Under 17 A Competition for the first time in 48 years.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulation be extendeded to Val Robus on winning the Sockies 2021 Award - Social Media Campaign (#Love Sligo and Love your County Campaign).”

 

60.  CONFERENCES / TRAINING:

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

 

61.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

The Members noted the items under this heading.

 

62.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor informed the Members of correspondence he had received from Minister Burke’s Office confirming the closure of the 2015 Financial Plan, and approval for payment of the final contribution of €400,000 to Sligo County Council

 

63.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

64.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Councillor Healy requested that a meeting of the Strategic Policy Committee on Environment, Transport and Infrastructure be convened early in January 2022 to allow for discussion on the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review, the closing date for submissions being 22nd January 2022. Any recommendations from the SPC meeting on this matter will have to go before the January Ordinary Meeting, scheduled for 17th January 2022. This was agreed by the Members

 

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 1.15 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 06/12/2021