Minutes 2022

Minutes of April Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday 11th April 2022 at 10 am


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Casserly(R),
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Connolly(R),
  • Councillor Fox,
  • Councillor Gibbons,
  • Councillor Gilroy,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor MacSharry(R),
  • Councillor Maguire(R),
  • Councillor Mullaney,
  • Councillor Mulvey(R),
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor O’Grady,
  • 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,
  • Jim Molloy, Director of Services,
  • Fineen O’Driscoll, A/Director of Services
  • Margaret McConnell, A/Director of Services(C),
  • Mark Cummins, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Karen McMahon, IT Technical Support Officer
  • Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator,
  • Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer.

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

Cathaoirleach, Councillor Paul Taylor, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

Apologies were received from Councillor Baker.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting.

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

 

1.  REPORT ON BURIAL GROUND FACILITIES AT AHAMLISH AND ROSSES POINT:

It was agreed that this item will be listed on the May Ordinary Meeting agenda.

 

2.  DRAFT POLICY ON TAKING IN CHARGE OF RURAL PUBLIC ROADS (CREATION OF PUBLIC ROADS):

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, and following a brief discussion, the following amendment to this item was placed before the Members in relation to the limitation on the length of road to be taken in charge annually over the first three years:

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

AND AGREED

“The Draft Policy on the taking in charge of rural roads would be 14 km instead of 8km.”

 

3.  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 May Ordinary Meeting.

 

4.  REVIEW OF JUNCTION AT MARKIEVICZ ROAD / CONNAUGHTON ROAD:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council review the junction at Markievicz Road/Connaughton Road due to recent traffic accidents and if possible, to put a railing up to protect footpath users.”

The Members were advised that the Council is in the process of ascertaining all relevant facts from An Garda Síochána in relation to two recent traffic incidents at this location, following which it can be determined if corrective action or intervention is warranted.

The Members were also advised that pedestrian guardrails should only be installed where there is a proven safety benefit to pedestrians, and guard rails should not be regarded as an effective form of crash barrier between vehicles and pedestrians.

 

5.  ACCESS TO CORKAMORE GRAVEYARD, TEMPLEBOY, CO SLIGO:

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

 

6.  UPDATE ON REVIEW OF LEASE ON EASKEY HOUSE:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor O’Boyle, was deferred until the May Ordinary Meeting.

 

7.  ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR PERPETRATORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:

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

AND AGREED

“This local authority calls on the government of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green party to initiate a policy of zero tolerance on any individual who inflict domestic violence on another person .”

 

8.  REPORT ON WORKS AT INNISHMURRAY ISLAND:

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

AND AGREED

“Noting the reply to Motion 34, November 2020 Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council (Submitted by Councillor Bree), and Motion 45, May 2021 Ordinary Meeting, (Submitted by Councillor Gilroy) regarding works at Innishmurray Island, can Sligo County Council Issue an updated report on

  1. Design for proposed works by Langan Consulting Engineers
  2. Has the design of a landing space that involves the cutting of steps into a vertical rock face been completed?
  3. Has the design been forwarded to the department of Marine and if so on what date and if a reply has been received, please state if the Department are satisfied the proposed design meets their requirements?
  4. Progress on procurement of funds to carry out the expected work.
  5. Progress on procurement of a contractor to carry out works.

Report on what inspections if any have been carried out to ensure the preservation and care of the delicate natural and heritage sites on the Island.”

The Members were advised that following the completion of design works for a landing space on Inishmurray Island which was forwarded to the Marine Survey Office for discussion, no objection has been raised to the proposal.

A funding application for Scheme construction is currently with the Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine (DAFM) with feedback expected this month. If funding is approved, the Council expect to be in a position to tender for the Scheme in early 2023.

Councillor Gilroy stated that works need to progress as a matter of priority. It was suggested that the Council could work with the OPW on works required on the island.

 

9.  FUNDING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF DIGITAL HUBS IN NORTH SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“Following from the funding announcements for the development of the Connected Hubs Network can we investigate the possibility of availing of funding and developing digital hubs in North Sligo.”

Members were advised that recently announced funding for Connected Hubs applies to existing hubs. Projects seeking funding in relation to new hubs are directed to apply to the main Town and Village Renewal Scheme, which will be announced in due course.

The report advised that this Council is committed to working with local communities in North Sligo where facilities and demand can be identified.

 

As items 10 and 21 related to similar matters, the Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would take both items at this time.

10. PLANNED CARBON TAX HIKE:

&

21.  INTRODUCTION OF FURTHER COST OF LIVING MEASURES BEFORE OCTOBER BUDGET:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council calls on government to scrap the planned carbon tax hike.  The increase in carbon tax on fuels used to heat homes is due to come into effect on May 1st and on transport fuels on October 12th.”

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the coalition government of FF, FG, and the Green Party along with the soft independents to introduce further cost of living measures before next October's budget. The government sitting on its hands until October is a non-runner. It is not good enough. Workers and families need action now.”

Councillor Healy called on the Members to seek the support of the four Sligo/Leitrim TDs to vote on the abolition of the proposed upcoming Carbon Tax, due to be introduced this year, as people are struggling to afford basic foodstuffs and utilities due to the unprecedented rising cost of living at this time.

Councillor Gibbons stated that urgent action needs to be taken now, and not to wait until the October budget for measures to be introduced to ease the burden on low to middle income families and small businesses who have been hugely affected by rising fuel costs.

 

As items 11 and 25 related to similar matters, the Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would take both items at this time.

11.  PROPOSALS FOR RETENTION, DEVELOPMENT AND IMPROVEMENT OF SLIGO PORT:

&

25.  FUNDING TO COVER COST OF FULL DREDGING OF SLIGO HARBOUR AND NAVIGATION CHANNEL:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“Noting with alarm the revelation that silt volumes at Sligo harbour have nearly doubled in the period since the last underwater survey in 2011; conscious that Sligo is the only working port between Galway and Derry (apart from Killybegs Fishery Harbour); further noting that it is an objective of the Council to retain the port as a viable infrastructural and commercial entity supported by port-related industries and/or business activities; this meeting calls on the Council management to outline its proposals for the retention, development and improvement of the port.” 

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle, Councillor M. Clarke, Councillor R. O’Grady, Councillor T. Fox

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council contact the relevant department to cover the cost of a full dredging of Sligo harbour and navigation channel as there are no funding streams available in regional commercial harbours like Sligo.”

The Members were advised that there are extensive costs involved in the dredging of the harbour, from €2.5m for a reduced dredging scheme, up to €10m for full dredging of the harbour. It was noted that there are no Government funding streams available for such projects.

The significant increase in silt volumes since 2011 would also require a new ‘Dumping at Sea’ permit, and a new Foreshore Licence would be required for the works. The cost of preparing these 2 No. applications would be approx. €150,000.

Councillor Bree expressed his disappointment with the report which he stated suggested that due to lack of available funding and the doubling of silt volumes in the Harbour, closure of Sligo port to commercial shipping is imminent.  Councillor Bree noted a previous positive report on a motion he had submitted on Sligo Harbour for the December 2021 meeting which stated that the silt volumes had remained at the same level as when the last seabed survey was carried out, and requested an explanation for two such contradictory reports in just a few months.  Councillor Bree noted that it is an objective of the County Development Plan to retain Sligo Port as part of the Spatial and Environmental Strategy in order to support local and overseas businesses.

Councillor O’Boyle stated that a full dredging of Sligo Harbour needs to be carried out, which cost should be borne by central Government.

Councillor Clarke acknowledged the work already done at Sligo Harbour in securing properties and a 70 acre site for development and hoped that Director of Services, Mr. Molloy will continue the good work of his predecessor Mr. Bartley Gavin. 

Councillor O’Grady, as a member of the Harbour Board, stated that this is a national issue beyond the power of the Executive in this Council. Pressure must be kept on the four local TDs and central Government to secure the funding required for Sligo Harbour.

Councillor Fox agreed said it is crucial that funding is forthcoming for Sligo Harbour and port which also connects directly to the Sligo rail line and will be hugely beneficial to Sligo as a whole once sufficiently invested in.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, acknowledged that Sligo Harbour is an extremely important asset to Sligo and advised the Members that a Masterplan is needed to develop the Harbour to its full potential.  The Council is working on its Terms of Reference and it is hoped it can go to tender in early 2023. At that stage and with the various stakeholders’ input, clarity can be obtained on the economic viability of the harbour and its potential to open up the town and region to other developments.

 

12.  IRISH SIGN LANGUAGE SUPPORTS:

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

AND AGREED

“To include preschool and childcare facilities to the new scheme to provide Irish Sign Language Support for children whose primary language is Irish Sign Language (ISL) and who are attending recognised schools.”  

 

13.  UPDATE ON PLANS AND SUPPORTS IN PLACE FOR THE PEOPLE OF UKRAINE:

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

AND AGREED

“Following the unprovoked and unwarranted Russian aggression and invasion of Ukraine, that we show solidarity for its people by supporting the humanitarian efforts being organised at this critical time for their country and following several requests and offers of help from the public, that an update be provided on the plans and supports that are in place between different agencies including this local authority.”

The Members were advised that, at the request of the Department, Sligo County Council has established a local Interagency & Community Response Forum which will help prepare the ground for Sligo’s response to the Ukrainian Refugee crisis and to ensure a co-ordinated response is delivered. The demand- led nature of the potential numbers of refugees arriving in Sligo will require that the model and role of the Interagency Forum will be constantly reviewed.

An inaugural meeting of the Sligo Ukrainian Community Response Forum was hosted on Monday, 21st March, 2022 with key stakeholders in attendance. The forum will be broadened to include necessary agencies to respond to the trajectory of needs over the coming weeks and months.

The Members paid tribute to the huge efforts and excellent work of Sligo Leader Partnership, Volunteer Centre, Sligo County Council, the Chief Executive and the Community & Economic Development staff, in their response to the crisis, given the ever-changing situation on the ground on a daily basis.

It was noted that more local and national co-ordination is needed, along with the provision of interpreters for refugees when they first arrive, in order to ensure a smooth transition with all necessary supports in place.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, in response to a query from Councillor Queenan, informed the Members that no additional resources have been allocated to Sligo County Council or to Sligo Leader Partnership through the SICAP programme to deliver supports, but any additional costs incurred will be reimbursed to the local authority. Mr. Lydon advised that this is an ever changing emergency situation and Members will be kept informed on an ongoing basis.

A/Director of Services, Ms McConnell, advised the Members that the Council is working with other agencies on the community response forum, such as the HSE and the Garda Síochána, and acknowledged the great efforts of volunteers.

 

14.  INCLUSION OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF AND BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY MD AREAS IN STREET CLEANING PROGRAMME:

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

AND AGREED

“To Call on Sligo County Council to include the Municipal areas of Sligo/Drumcliffe and Ballymote/Tubbercurry in the Street Cleaning Programme.”

Members were advised that street cleaning in our towns and villages is carried out on a regular basis by the Roads Department. The local Area Engineer also works with local Tidy Towns Committees to ensure towns and villages are kept tidy. If there are any particular problem areas they should be reported to the local Area Engineer for attention.

In response to a query from Councillor Healy, Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon advised that the budget for street cleaning in the Ballymote/Tubbercurry and Sligo/Drumcliff Municipal District areas is included in the annual Roads Budget for those areas.  The allocation for street cleaning in the two MD areas can, however, be identified separately if the Members so wish.  The separate street cleaning budget refers specifically to the Borough area, and the budgets have been prepared in this manner on a historical basis. Mr. Lydon stated that any problems litter areas should be reported to the local Area Engineer for follow up. It was also suggested that if the Members required extra resources for street cleaning, an increase in rates could yield funding for this work.

 

15.  REPORT ON COUNCILLORS PROPOSALS FUNDS:

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P Taylor

AND AGREED

“That the Members of Sligo County Council be provided with a report on Councillors Proposals Funds that details:

  • Exactly what works Councillors Proposals Money can be used for?
  • What amount was used of the €14,000 allocated to each Councillor in 2021?

How were any unused funds spent?”

The meeting was advised that councillors proposals are used for Local Road repairs and maintenance.  They are part of the overall Roads Budget and are funded from Sligo County Council’s own resources.  Of the €252,000 allocated in 2021 €216,878 was used.  Unused balances are brought forward and added to the following years Councillors proposals allocation.

Councillor Gilroy noted that it is crucial that each Member’s allocation is used up fully to ensure that adequate funding is provided each year.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, advised that all Councillors Proposals allocations should be spent before year end, as any unspent monies may not be carried forward to next year.

 

16.  100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF SLIGO MAN WILLIAM BOURKE COCKRAN ON MARCH 1ST 2023:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council instigate a series of events to mark the 100th Anniversary of the death of Sligo man William Bourke Cockran on March 1st, 2023.

That these events build on

  • The work done as part of “The Champion of Liberty” Exhibition held at Sligo City Hall in May 2017
  • His role played in the development of America as a world power
  • His role in Ireland achieving her independence and taking her place among the Nations of the Earth
  • The additional information discovered regarding the role played by Cockran together with other Sligo men and women in the Irish American community.

That these events embrace the Sligo Diaspora in New York and throughout the United States, and that the American Irish Historical Society be invited to bring the story of Bourke Cockran to the American Irish

That as the 3rd Freeman of Sligo (June 6th, 1903) the Name of William Bourke Cockran be added to the List of Freemen in Sligo City Hall.”

The Members were advised that an exhibition was hosted in City Hall in May 2017 for a two week period to commemorate the life of William Bourke Cockran. The exhibition was well attended and presented a detailed overview of Burke Cockran's significant contribution to American politics and society.

Sligo County Council will engage with interested parties in Sligo and the Irish-American Community in New York to assist in the promotion of the centenary of his death in March 2023.

The Roll of Freemen currently displayed in City Hall covers the period 1917 to 2003 and arrangements will be made to have the Roll updated to include William Burke Cockran together with Freemen enrolled since 2003.

Councillor Gilroy welcomed the report from the Director and added that it is important that William Bourke Cockran is commemorated on the occasion of the centenary of his death.

 

17.  RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF COVID EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM IN RESPONSE TO UKRANIAN REFUGEE CRISIS:

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

 

18.  REVISION OF PLANNING LAWS AROUND BRINGING OLDER HOMES BACK INTO USE / GRANT TO REFURBISH HOMES:

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

 

19.  INCREASED BUDGETS FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DUE TO HIGHER INFLATION, INCREASED COST OF MATERIALS ETC:

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

AND AGREED

“To write to the Government and the EU Commission requesting them to increase the budgets for community development in the light of the unprecedented inflation in the cost of building materials, labour and associated costs. Many approved projects have been tendered in 2021 at quotes which are now inadequate for the contractors.”

 

20.  APPROVAL OF BUSINESS PLAN FOR 8 NO. ADDITIONAL NURSES IN SUH ED DEPARTMENT/ CLARIFICATION ON OPERATION OF RECENTLY OPENED PAEDS BEDS IN THE ED DEPARTMENT:

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

AND AGREED

“In light of a recent report into the Emergency Department at Sligo University Hospital, which was carried out by Ms Fiona Mc Daid, Emergency Nurse specialist that Sligo County Council calls for the business plan recently submitted to the HSE by management for 8 additional nurses for the Emergency Department to be immediately approved.

In addition, that Sligo County Council wishes the HSE to clarify if the recently opened Paeds Beds in the ED are operating 24 hours a day and if those beds have an allocated qualified nurse.

That this Motion be relayed for reply for the Minister for Health, to the CEO of the HSE and the CEO of Saolta Group.”

Councillor Walsh requested that his colleagues on the Regional Health Forum follow up on the issues raised in this motion as staff shortages in SUH are having a detrimental effect on staff and patients and their families.

It was agreed to keep this matter on the agenda going forward.

 

22.  OLD MILL APARTMENT IN BALLISODARE:

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

AND AGREED

“To Call on Sligo County Council to use all the powers they have in Planning Enforcement and Building Control to address the ongoing saga regarding the Old Mill apartment in Ballisadare. I also requested that a deadline be placed on the development to progress works.”

The Members were advised that the Planning Enforcement Section of Sligo County Council continues to engage with the owners of the Mill Apartments in Ballisodare in relation to the appearance and condition of the property.  Some works have taken place in recent weeks to improve the exterior of the building and the Council will continue to keep the condition of the building monitored. Legislative provisions do not give sufficient power to a local authority to force an owner to occupy a vacant property.

Councillor Healy referred to a letter he issued previously to the Enforcement Section requesting that a meeting be organised between the Developer and a delegation from the Ballisodare community. He also requested that this building be registered as a derelict site under the Derelict Sites Act and asked that consideration be given to imposing a derelict sites levy.

Senior Executive Engineer, Mark Cummins, advised that this building does not meet the criteria to be registered as a derelict or a dangerous site. The exterior appearance of the building is maintained on an ongoing basis and the owners are being encouraged to bring the building back into use, which is dependent on market conditions in this area.

Mr. Cummins further advised that this site would not fall into the category for a vacant site levy, as such levies only apply to sites that have not been developed.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, advised the Members that the Council is engaging with the Developer and a number of different bodies regarding this structure and it will take time for these talks and any outcomes to come to fruition. The Members will be kept updated on this process.

 

23.  PRESENTATION BY SLIGO MONEY ADVICE AND BUDGETING SERVICE (MABS) ON SERVICES AVAILABLE:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to invite a representative from Sligo Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) to make a presentation on the services they provide. MABS is a state-funded, FREE, confidential, and independent service for people with debt and money management concerns.”

It was agreed to invite a representative from Sligo Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) to make a presentation to the Members on the importance of this vital service for Sligo at 9.30 a.m. prior to the May monthly meeting on Monday 9th May next, or before a later monthly meeting if this date is not suitable.

 

24.  REMEDIAL WORKS ON WALKING ROUTES BEFORE THE SUMMER SEASON / SURFACE AT DORRINS STRAND:

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

 

26.  REPORT ON DOG SHELTER:

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

AND AGREED

“Can Sligo County Council give a breakdown of operational expenses of monies giving to the dog shelter? 

  • Who are reports from the dog shelter sent to? 

If Sligo dog pound and Sligo animal rescue are the same place as recorded by dogs trust there are 494 dogs unaccounted for.

  • Where do these dogs end up.
  • Where is the documentation to record the whereabouts of these dogs from 2014-2021.”

The Members were provided with a breakdown of operational expenses of monies provided to the dog shelter and advised that the management of the service is the responsibility of the Veterinary Officer.

The report also advised that Sligo animal rescue has no connection with Sligo County Council, and that there are no dogs unaccounted for in the Sligo Dog Shelter, with every effort being put into rehoming dogs, locally or through charities. All dogs that enter the Sligo Dog Shelter are microchipped as required by law, and the records are kept by the contractor for inspection where required.

Councillor O’Boyle noted the report and requested a copy of all reports from the Sligo Dog Shelter from 2014 to 2021 showing how monies allocated are spent, and it was confirmed this information will be provided.

 

27.  DATE FOR ABORTION SERVICES TO BE AVAILABLE IN SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo  County Council calls on the Minister for Health to deliver a date for abortion services to be available in Sligo.”

Councillor O’Boyle and Councillor Bree stated that it represents a failure to the region on the part of the HSE that there is still no access to safe and legal emergency abortion services in Co Sligo and stated that the Minister has an obligation to ensure that these services are provided in Sligo.

 

28.  PROPOSED ONE WAY TRAFFIC SYSTEM FOR COLLOONEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To seek clarity from Sligo County Council on when the consultation process will begin relative to the proposed provision of a one-way traffic system for Collooney.”

The Members were advised that applications were made under the Rural Regional Development Fund (RRDF) scheme for public enhancement works in Collooney in 2020 and 2021 which would have incorporated key elements of the proposed one way system, however these applications were not successful.

The provision of a one-way traffic system for Collooney, that would involve minimal and low cost intervention in terms of signing and lining, and the associated consultation process will be considered at a later date, but the current priority in the Collooney area is the provision of footpaths in the Barrack Street area and in the footpaths connecting the two villages of Collooney and Ballisodare. Funding will also need to be secured for the above mentioned interventions.

Councillor Walsh stated that there is frustration in Collooney with the situation around the current traffic system and added that he will request a meeting with the Acting Director of Services at an early date to discuss a formal timeframe for the funding application for the proposed one-way system.

 

29.  UPDATE ON PUBLICATION OF FESTIVAL AND EVENTS STRATEGY FOR CO SLIGO / RECRUITMENT OF FESTIVALS AND EVENTS MANAGER:

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D Gilroy

AND AGREED

“To seek an update from Sligo County Council relative to the publication of a Festivals and Events Strategy for County Sligo and the recruitment of the Festivals and Events Manager.”

The Members were advised that while an advanced draft of the Festival and Events Strategy has been prepared, it has not been possible to progress it to finalisation as the Council is awaiting the new anticipated National Failte Ireland Festival Innovation programme.  However, the Council and Failte Ireland are continuing to support festivals and events that have been progressing with the funding schemes and resources in place.

In relation to the post of the Festivals and Events Manager, the Council’s Workforce Plan is being prepared and the post is included in this proposal. Subject to approval within this plan, sanction will be sought from the Department and the post will be advertised and recruitment progressed.

Councillor Walsh stated that the Council should take the lead on the Festivals and Events Strategy initiative and bring it to fruition, which could then be tied in with Fáilte Ireland’s strategy when it has been finalised. Councillor Walsh added that the Festival and Events Manager post has been budgeted for and sought a timeframe for when the post will be advertised.  Councillor Walsh also requested that a further report on the matter would issue at the May Ordinary Meeting.

 

30.  OVERALL REVIEW OF ROAD MARKINGS ON LOCAL ROADS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council carry out an overall review of road markings on local roads.”

The Members were advised that road marking schemes on local roads are carried out regularly. If there are any particular locations in mind, they should be brought to the attention of the local Area Engineer.

During a discussion on the matter, it was noted that road markings should not be put down during spells of unsuitable weather.

 

31.  PROVISION OF EARLY MORNING COMMUTER RAIL SERVICE FROM LONGFORD TO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council again calls on Iarnrod 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. and that we seek the support of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly for this initiative.

Councillor Bree stated that as part of the All-Ireland Rail Review, it is an objective of the County Development Plan to link rail services throughout the country. The Sligo to Longford rail service is not being used to its full potential, and this service needs to be reviewed as soon as possible with a view to providing an early morning commuter service from Sligo to Longford, which will be hugely beneficial to commuters including students commuting to college and will also be better for the Environment.

Councillor Healy requested that a letter issue to the Minister to meet with a delegation from Sligo County Council, the discussion to include the matter of the return of a freight service on the Sligo-Dublin rail line in order to utilise the line to its full potential.

 

32.  LIST OF PROPERTIES IN EACH MUNICIPAL DISTRICT ON THE DERELICT SITES REGISTER:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with a list of the properties in each Municipal District that are currently on the Derelict Sites Register, the value of each property, those that have been pursued for levies and how much money has been recouped to date.”

The Members were provided with details from the Derelict Site Register giving a breakdown of Municipal Districts. As a first step, the Council seeks to engage with the owners of derelict properties, and this often results in a desired outcome without the need to go through the formal process prescribed in the Derelict Sites Act 1990 concerning valuations and levies.  In recent years, the enforcement section has encountered difficulty in implementing this legislation, particularly with regard to identifying the owner of the property arising out of properties being put into receivership or liquidation, or in instances where there is a dispute over ownership.

There has been much progress made in this area within the last couple of years, and with the proposed assigning of additional staff to the Planning Enforcement Team to deal with dereliction as part of the Work Force Plan, we will now be able to escalate work in this area and dedicate more time to resolving dereliction issues.

Councillor Bree noted that no derelict site levies have been collected at any stage and requested to know what actions are to be taken to enforce the Derelict Sites Act around the collection of outstanding levies.

Senior Executive Engineer, Mark Cummins, stated that the main reasons for dereliction of properties are the deaths of owners, probate issues and lack of finances for upkeep of properties. The Council is encouraging owners to bring properties back to use and is happy to assist property owners in that process. Regarding actions being taken by the Council to deal with derelictions, Mr. Cummins advised that the Council will be stepping up its use of the CPO process on derelict properties and will, where appropriate, serve notice of intent to place a property on the Derelict Site Register, and impose levies where required.

Councillor Bree stated that there seems to be a general view among the public that no action will be taken on derelict properties, therefore owners do not take any action to sell or put the property back into use.

Chief Executive, Mr Lydon advised that the lack of ambition in relation to derelict properties is a national issue. The Council will be putting teams in place to deal with derelict properties and will be pursuing debts of all types which will include derelict site levies, up to and including legal action for collections of debts.

 

33.  CONDEMNATION OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST PEOPLE COMING INTO IRELAND:

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

 

34.  PROVISION OF SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES:

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T Healy

AND AGREED

“To call on this council to write to the Fianna Fail Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly and the HSE and request them to stop breaking the law, stop cutting corners, and provide children with disabilities with the services they need.”

 

51.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Votes of Sympathy were recorded.

 

52.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

No item was raised under this heading.

 

53.  CONFERENCES / TRAINING:

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

 

54.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

The Members noted the items under this heading.

 

55.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

 

56.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

57.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Councillor Gibbons stated that the people of Donegal are hosting a ‘Military Tattoo’ in September and wish to address this Council to put a proposal forward and for Sligo to consider doing something similar further down the road, to enhance the tourist industry and commemorate those who fought in wars. The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor advised that the matter will be discussed at the next meeting of the Corporate Policy Group scheduled for 6th May next.

 

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 1.45 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 11/04/2022