Minutes 2022

Minutes of June Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10 am on Monday 13th June 2022 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Casserly,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Connolly,
  • Councillor Fox,
  • Councillor Gibbons,
  • Councillor Gilroy,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor MacSharry(R),
  • Councillor Maguire(R),
  • Councillor Mullaney,
  • 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,
  • Emer Concannon, A/Director of Services
  • Marie Whelan, Head of Finance,
  • Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services,
  • Frank Moylan, Senior Planner,
  • Donal Tinney, County Librarian,
  • Jimmy O’Brien, A/Head of Information Systems,
  • Karen McMahon, IS Technical Support Officer,
  • Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator,
  • Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer.

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

  • Cathaoirleach, Councillor Paul Taylor, presided.

 

APOLOGIES:

  • Apologies were received from Councillor Mulvey.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting.

Members participating remotely were Councillor MacSharry and Councillor Maguire.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP HELD ON 4TH FEBRUARY 2022:

Proposed by Councillor M. Connolly
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Meeting of the Corporate Policy Group held on 4th February 2022.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF LTACC HELD ON 16TH FEBRUARY 2022:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Meeting of Sligo Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee (LTACC) held on 16th February 2022.”

 

3.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF BALLYMOTE - TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 28TH MARCH 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 28th March 2022.”

 

4.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF SLIGO BOROUGH DISTRICT HELD ON 28TH MARCH 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Meeting of Sligo Borough District held on 28th March 2022.”

 

5.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 9TH MAY 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 9th May 2022.”

 

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

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, informed the Members that time and patience are required by all involved in trying to find a solution to this highly sensitive issue. Mr. Lydon advised that he will revert to the Members when there are significant developments to report.  

 

7.  LEASE OF CALTRAGH COMMUNITY CENTRE TO SLIGO SPRINGBOARD:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of Sligo County Council property known as Caltragh Community Centre, Caltragh, Sligo to Sligo Springboard CLG by way of a five-year lease.”

 

8.  SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To adopt Sligo County Council’s Annual Report 2021.”

 

9.  CAS LOAN TO FOCUS HOUSING ASSOCIATION FOR 87 CORNMILL PARK, BALLYMOTE, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance to Focus Housing Association Company Limited by Guarantee, in the form of Capital Assistance Scheme Loan, in the amount of €131,474, No. 87 Cornmill Park, Ballymote, Co. Sligo.”

 

10.  LOCAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (LCDC) ANNUAL REPORT 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) Annual Report 2021.”

 

11.  RECOMMENDATIONS OF DECADE OF CENTENARIES STEERING GROUP UNDER SCC CREATIVE IRELAND OPEN CALL 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the recommendations of the Decade of Centenaries Steering Group under the Sligo County Council’s Creative Ireland Open Call 2022.”

 

12.  SECTION 85 AGREEMENT WITH LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL – ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING UNITS:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council agrees to the making of an agreement, as presented to it, under Section 85 of the Local Government Act 2001 (as amended), with Louth County Council, allowing them to carry out all of the works associated with the design, analysis, procurement, installation and operation of rapid electric vehicle charging units at Connaughton Road, Sligo and Teach Laighne, Tubbercurry.”

 

13.  SCC DRAFT HOUSING DELIVERY ACTION PLAN 2022-2026:

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

AND AGREED

“To note Sligo County Council’s Draft Housing Delivery Action Plan 2022-2026.”

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised the Members that it is hoped that final approval for the HDAP will issue this month and will then be available for viewing on the Council’s website.

 

14.  ENTERPRISE & COMMUNITY & URBAN PARK AND ASSOCIATED SITE WORKS, CRANMORE, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“Update on the Enterprise & Community Centre & Urban Park and associated site works, Cranmore, Sligo.”

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised the Members that works on the upgrading and maintenance of houses in the Cranmore area will continue and tenders are proceeding as planned.  Mr. Molloy added that Government funding to progress the planned works to the Enterprise & Community Centre and Urban Park and associated site works can be progressed once market conditions allow.

 

15.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR MAY 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Monthly Management Report for May 2022.”

 

16.  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 July Ordinary Meeting.

 

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

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

 

18.  UPDATE ON REVIEW OF LEASE ON EASKEY HOUSE:

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

AND AGREED

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, in a report previously circulated, advised that Easkey Community Council (ECC) remains a registered community group and continues to provide community services.

The Assets and Facility Management Team is currently finalising a review of the lease agreement, including the ECC’s compliance, and expect to complete this work by the end of June. This will enable the Assets and Facility Management Team to determine the next steps, which may include seeking professional advice. A further update will issue to Council in July.

 

19.  CONDEMNATION OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST PEOPLE COMING INTO IRELAND:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on this Council: to affirm that there is no place in Sligo / Ireland for any form of discrimination against people who have come to Ireland to make it their home and to work and live their lives. This is even more relevant now because of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and that we remain vigilant from any attempt by far-right groups to vilify either Russian or Ukrainian people who have come to our country.”

 

20.  &  23.  PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT R287 / R284 JUNCTION:

As items 20 and 23 related to similar matters, the Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would take both items at this time.

Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire

“Given the serious concerns around traffic management and pedestrian safety at the junction outside the Well Pet Hospital at the R287/ R284 junction, requests from the Student Council for a pedestrian crossing to be put in place on the R284 at the Well Pet Hospital so that pedestrians can safely cross to the R284. This motion seeks a report from the engineering department for proposals to slow down the traffic leading to and from the junction and improvements to the safety of both road and footpath users”

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh

“Following on from my motion dated 10th May 2021

To ask Sligo County Council to make provision of a pedestrian crossing at Carraroe centre linking the car-park at Carraroe Church/ R284 to the car-park at Carrara National School/Well Pet Hospital in an effort to make this busy area safer” 

That Sligo County Council provides an update by way of report on same.”

The Members were advised that, following a meeting with the Board of Management and Principal of Carraroe NS, the design of any pedestrian facilities at this location will require significant planning and design input. It would also require public consultation due to the complex nature of pedestrian and traffic movements. Any funding streams for projects of this nature have already been allocated for 2022 and Roads Department resources are concentrating on schemes that already have funding. The school was advised that a possible funding stream could be through the Safe Routes to School Programme, and the school would have to make an application directly to the National Transport Authority to avail of this Programme.  

Councillor Maguire hoped that funding for this project can be considered in next year’s budget.

Councillor Walsh advised that the landowner in question is positively disposed to the proposed re-alignment and footpath works.

 

21.  SPEED SURVEY AT R292 FROM RANSBORO NATIONAL SCHOOL TO ST. ANNE’S CHURCH:

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

AND AGREED

“This motion asks that a safety review be undertaken of the R292 from Ransboro National School to St. Annes Church that a speed survey be undertaken traffic calming measures and remedial line markings be undertaken as a matter of urgency.”

Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, advised the Members that and a section of the R292 (from its junction with the R277 Burmah Road to its junction with the L-35053 Carrowdough – top road Strandhill Village), will be the subject of an overall review under the Active Travel Programme.  Subject to NTA approval of any proposals from this review, compliance with any relevant planning requirements and NTA funding being provided, some interventions may be undertaken along this part of the route over the coming years.

Councillor Maguire requested that a speed survey be carried out at the location specified in the motion, together with the provision of traffic calming measures at this location.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, advised the Members that there is no available funding to carry out the survey in this year’s budget.

 

22. SURVEY ALONG N17 AT JUNCTION L4601 & L1603:

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

 

24.  RENT FREEZES / INTRODUCTION OF NATIONWIDE RENT PRESSURE ZONES:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Government to introduce immediate rent freezes and introduce nationwide rent pressure zones.”

 

25.  CCTV IN TRAIN STATION IN COLLOONEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Irish rail to put CCTV in the train station in Collooney in the interest of Health and safety for the customers who use the station”.

 

26.  CONCERNS AROUND WAIT TIMES AND ACCESS TO PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES AND CAMHS IN SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“In light of the sharp and concerning rise in increased levels of anxiety and poor mental health in children and young people in Sligo, that Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Health and the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth asking them:

  1. If they are aware of the current wait times for access to psychology services and CAMHS in Sligo 
  2. What plan is in place to address these extraordinary wait lists 
  3. If they would consider commissioning a provider to provide urgent assistance to the children and young people currently on the wait list in County Sligo
  4. That both Ministers would consider forming an interdepartmental working group to examine these trends at national level and respond to the needs of children and young people appropriately and in a timely manner”

Following a detailed discussion on this motion, it was further agreed to also write to the CEO of the HSE, the four local TDs and the Minister for Education in support of this motion, in order to ensure early intervention for young people in need of mental health services.

 

27.  REVIEW OF ABHAILE SERVICES / CONTINUATION OF DEDICATED MORTGAGE ADVISOR ROLES:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask that this Council write to the Ministers for Social Protection and Justice to ask that the national Abhaile Service (which is currently under review) be secured permanently for the future and that vital Dedicated Mortgage Advisor roles be continued and for the creation of more DMA roles throughout the country.”

It was agreed to write to the four local TDs and to all Local Authorities in support of this motion.

 

28.  PROVISION OF PASSPORT OFFICE IN SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“In view of the huge increase in passport applications and consequent challenges and delays in the system, that this Council calls on the Government to open a public passport office in Sligo to serve communities and people in the West, North-West and North of Ireland.”

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, and following a discussion on the matter, the following amendment to Councillor Casserly’s motion was placed before the Members and it was:

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

AND AGREED

“In view of the huge increase in passport applications and consequent challenges and delays in the system, that this Council calls on the Government to open a public passport office in Sligo to serve communities and people in the West, North-West and North of Ireland. And that a delegation from Sligo County Council request a meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney and TDs from this region to look for this service to be provided in these areas.  And to seek the support of other Local Authorities on this.”

Councillor Casserly informed the meeting that she has written to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on this matter and will share any response with the Members at that stage.

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor, stated a delegation from this Council can be put in place when a response has been received to the correspondence issued to the Minister for Foreign Affairs. It was also noted that a discussion could be held in relation to a venue for a regional Passport Office, with Teach Laighne, Tubbercurry, a possible option.

 

29.  UPDATE ON PROGRESS OF UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE BID PROCESS:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council provide an update with regard to the progress of the UNESCO World Heritage Site bid process and outline what if any next steps are anticipated”.

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, informed the Members that, following an application to DHLGH by Sligo County Council in partnership with the Sligo Neolithic Landscapes Group for the inclusion of ‘The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo’ on Ireland’s new Tentative List of World Heritage Properties, the Department advised that the application was considered by an Expert Advisory Group (EAG) appointed by the Minister and was very positive in terms of how the application demonstrated Outstanding Universal Value (OUV).

An announcement by the Minister for Heritage of the successful applications to the Tentative List (TL) of UNESCO World Heritage Site’s is expected in the second half of 2022.

Councillor Maguire welcomed the very positive report and commended the Sligo Neolithic Landscape Group who have done outstanding work in the promotion of the passage tomb landscapes in County Sligo. It is an enormous step forward for Sligo as a County to have a potential site on the Tentative List of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and would be an incredible bonus from both a tourism and heritage perspective. 

Councillor Gilroy, in seconding the motion, welcomed the report and asked if there would be any financial implications for the Council, and if the National Monuments Service would bear the cost of this project as it will form part of our Heritage Plan. Councillor Gilroy commended everyone involved in the project and acknowledged that a huge of amount of work has been carried out locally on same.

Councillor Healy added that is it very important that these sites are treated with respect by all visitors in order to preserve and protect these national monuments.

 

30.  PRE-LEGISLATIVE SCRUTINY OF THE DEFECTIVE CONCRETE BLOCKS BILL:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Government to make sure that there is Pre-legislative scrutiny of the defective Concrete Blocks Bill. To ensure the Government gets it right this time and that families can move on with their lives in Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Clare, and in other counties.”

 

31.  WORKS TO CEOL NA MARA ESTATE IN CLIFFONEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to support this motion where the house owners of Ceol na Mara estate in Cliffoney are asking that Sligo County Council draw down the bond on their estate and to carry out the necessary work to bring the estate up to a standard where the local authorities will be able to take it in charge”.

The Members were advised that the Enforcement Section has agreed a Snag List with the receiver with a view to the Bondholder releasing the funds to complete the required works to bring this estate up to a satisfactory standard to ‘Take in Charge’.  These works were initially delayed due to Covid restrictions and now, due to construction cost inflation, will have to be retendered.  The report noted that works to the Public Lights were completed prior to Covid restrictions and these were taken in charge in January 2020.

In circumstances where a Bondholder still holds the bond, it is the Council’s preference that they design, procure and project manage the works thereby reducing the drain on the Council’s resources and potential for financial liabilities in the event of cost overruns.

The Council will write to the Receiver and advise them that in the event that a Contractor is not appointed within three months, the Council intends on drawing down the bond.

Councillor Healy noted that this matter has been going on since 2011 and welcomed the fact that the Council has now given the commitment to draw down the bond if the required works are not carried out by the developers in the next three months..

Councillor Gilroy, as seconder of the motion queried if part of the bond has already been used on completing some of the unfinished houses in this estate, and if there are sufficient funds remaining for the works now to be carried out. Councillor Healy also requested a list of the works to be carried out by the developer. Ms. Clarke confirmed that these two matters will be checked out and the Members will be updated at that stage.

 

32.  INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION TO PROTECT TENANTS IN PRIVATE RENTED ACCOMMODATION FROM RENT INCREASES / INVESTMENT PROGRAMME IN COUNCIL HOUSING:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council: noting the exorbitant and unacceptable rent increases being imposed by landlords in the private rented sector in Tubbercurry and other parts of the county; calls on the Government to (a) introduce the necessary legislation to protect tenants in private rented accommodation from unfair rent increases (b) immediately commit to a realistic investment programme in Council housing.”

 

33.  RESTORATION OF A SAFE PATHWAY TO THE SECOND BEACH AT ROSSES POINT:

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

AND AGREED

“Noting that, since the installation of rock armour, there is no safe access pathway to the second beach at Rosses Point during periods of high tides, this meeting seeks a progress report on the Council’s proposals to restore a safe pathway to the beach.”

Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, advised in a report previously circulated that the pathway access to Rosses Point Second Beach has always been influenced by high tides, with the end of the path submerged for up to a few hours at high tide, particularly at Spring tides.

To prevent further erosion and the potential collapse of the access ramp following winter storms in early 2020, funding was secured from the OPW to repair and protect the path and reconstruction works were carried out in 2021.

A high-level study to determine the potential of new longer term access options to the second beach, which would not be influenced by high tides, was carried out in autumn 2021. This study determined that any new options would be subject to planning, environmental (SAC), tidal, landowner, safety and cost implications. SCC will progress the investigation of options this year.

Councillor Bree expressed his disappointment, noting that, following the works carried out in 2021 concern was expressed regarding walkers’ access being cut off during high tides and, while warning signs were erected regarding the tides and access, he understood this was simply as a short term measure for the information of visitors to the beach, and that, subject to planning and financial implications, the long term solution would be the provision of a path or boardwalk running through private lands to provide access to the beach approx. 100m north of the present pathway. Councillor Bree asked that when the investigation of options is complete that a full report on the matter be brought before the Council.

Councillor Casserly, in seconding the motion, noted the urgency of the timelines for the report and investigations in order to ensure the safety of people visiting this beach.

Ms. Concannon advised the members to be mindful of the fact that, in 2020 when the access ramp had fallen away completely, it was necessary to put in place the 30m of rock armour, as otherwise there would have been no access to the second beach.

Options for a longer term solution are being examined, which is a significant piece of infrastructure, and a report on same will be circulated to the members when available.

 

34.  PROVISION OF A CATHETERISATION LABORATORY (CATH LAB) SERVICE AT SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council expresses its deep dismay at the failure of Government to provide a catheterisation laboratory (Cath Lab) service at Sligo University Hospital and calls on the three T.D.’s in the constituency who voted for the Taoiseach and the Government, to take the necessary steps to have the service provided in the hospital.”

Councillor Bree stated that the current limited Cath Lab Service at SUH is to cease operating on 30th June 2022, which represents a further downgrade of the services at the hospital. The Government has stated that no decision will be made on this matter until the National Cardiac Review has been completed.

The Members also called on the Minister for Health to ensure that the current service is not discontinued and that the report on the National Cardiac Review is published as soon as possible.

 

35.  PROVISION OF A SEGREGATED CYCLE ROUTE ON THE N15 BETWEEN SLIGO AND THE LEITRIM BORDER:

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council welcomes the plan for a National Cycle Network and asks that the Executive avail of this unprecedented opportunity to enter into discussions with Transport Infrastructure Ireland about providing a segregated cycle route on the N15 between Sligo and the Leitrim Border. Such a route would permit adults and children in areas such as Rathcormac, Drumcliffe, Grange, Moneygold, Cliffoney and Castlegal to commute to work or school by active means. It would also link settlements on Euro Velo Atlantic with the N15 and Sligo.”

Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, informed the Members that the draft National Cycling Network (NCN) includes a link between Sligo and Letterkenny. The Council’s Executive will avail of the opportunity to enter into discussions with TII at the appropriate time regarding the NCN.

A Public Consultation on the draft NCN was held by TII from the 4th May to the 7th June 2022. A report is scheduled to be completed in August 2022, to be followed by a detailed plan for the roll out of the NCN over the coming years. It is proposed that the NCN will be delivered via a series of rolling, five-year phases by Local Authorities. TII proposes to verify the phases via consultation with Local Authorities to confirm deliverability of the various routes within the timeframes outlined.

Councillor Casserly welcomed the report and looks forward to the results of the public consultation and asked that regular updates be provided to the Members on this important issue and emphasised the importance of a segregated cycle between Cliffoney, Grange, Rathcormac and Sligo to ensure the safety of all cyclists using this road.

Councillor Gilroy, as seconder of the motion, added that the ultimate solution is a new N15 with a segregated cycleway running alongside it.

Councillor Healy noted that, along with fellow members of ICBAN, Councillor Clarke and Councillor Connolly, he will raise this issue at the ICBAN Board Meeting on 22nd June in Sligo.

Ms. Concannon advised that the Members will be kept updated on the matter and added that, the priority of the NCN is to link towns with population of 5,000 or greater.

 

36.  REVIEW OF THE JUNE 2018 DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTION SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council instigates a review of the June 2018 Development Contribution Scheme in accordance with Section 4.0 which states that the scheme may be reviewed by the planning Authority at any time.

That the review would localise what contribution would be made and that contributions would be used within areas designated by the scheme to ensure that projects relevant to the development would be enabled by the funds contributed.”

The Members were advised that the aim of the Development Contribution Scheme is to ensure that permitted developments benefiting from infrastructural investment pay a contribution towards the provision of infrastructure that is essential to enabling that development in the first place. The Department’s guidance document on Development Contributions indicates that the scheme should only include infrastructure that is essential to realising the objectives of the development plan and enabling the quantum of development anticipated by its core strategy.  For this reason, it is essential that there is a close alignment between the review of the DC scheme and the six-year life of the development plan.  Accordingly, the current Sligo County Development Contribution Scheme 2018 – 2024 is scheduled to commence its review after the adoption of the Sligo County Development Plan next year.

 

37.  REPORT ON STANDARD CONDITIONS FOR ONE-OFF RURAL HOUSES:

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

 

38.  REPORT ON LANDS ZONED FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN SLIGO CITY AND ITS ENVIRONS AND KEY SATELLITE TOWNS:

Proposed by Cllrs. M. Clarke, P. Taylor, M. Baker, D. Mulvey, G. Mullaney, T. Walsh, D. Gilroy and M. Connolly

AND AGREED

“Further to recent advice from the Council that there were sufficient lands zoned for residential development within Sligo City and its environs and key satellite towns, we hereby propose that the CEO of Sligo County Council prepares a report, as outlined hereunder, and circulates to the Council members in advance of the next Council meeting, to enable members to evaluate the appropriateness of currently zoned lands in the county and the position regarding the demand for housing in rural areas:

  1. That the CEO of Sligo County Council provides a comprehensive detailed analysis of the suitability and current development potential of all lands presently zoned and yet underdeveloped in the Sligo Town and Environs area and of all satellite towns in the county. The lands to be further identified as lands with the benefit of a current permission and those without permission. Lands zoned as being in the “Strategic Land Reserve” to be excluded in any analysis.
  2. To get a clearer picture of the current demand for housing in Sligo that the CEO of Sligo County Council provides a detailed report of the number of all “One-off” rural houses applications for planning permission in each electoral district in County Sligo that have been withdrawn pre planning for one off that have been told they won't get planning and applications withdrawn because they were going to be refused or have been refused by the Council within the past five years.
  3. That the CEO of Sligo County Council provides a clarification as to the legal position and implications with respect to zoning of lands currently zoned as Strategic Land Reserve in the current County Development Plan and Sligo and Environs Development Plan. Will the re-zoning by Sligo County Council of additional lands for residential uses, on an ad-hoc basis, result in future implications and possible de-zoning of residential lands elsewhere in the county? The CEO is requested to seek clarification from the Office of the Planning Regulator in this regard and to circulate to Council members a copy of Regulator’s report/direction on the matter.
  4. To provide detailed zoned maps of the 2012, 2012 to 2017 and the 2017 to 2023, County Development Plan and a current map showing the zoned lands that have been developed.”

A report was circulated to the Members in advance of the meeting, addressing all points raised in this notice of motion.

Councillor Clarke thanked the Director of Services for a very informative report and outlined his concerns regarding the accessing of maps by councillors and added that it is important that all councillors be fully informed when making decisions on this matter.

Councillor Clarke queried if Material Contraventions could be brought to the relevant Municipal District meeting for discussion, where the proposed development is planned, prior to going to the full Plenary meeting. Councillor Clarke added that more lands need to be zoned for the next CDP and historical maps need to be readily available.

Councillor Gilroy stated that there is no record of pre-planning meetings etc. but appreciated that confidentiality is required as a planning application has not been submitted at that stage. He shared with the members, data from John Daly, Economist with the Regional Assembly, regarding numbers of houses constructed in Sligo town, defined settlements and in rural areas and added that he will circulate these figures to his colleagues.

Councillor Walsh noted that the Council is guided by the National Planning Framework and a clear message needs to go out from this Council that lands zoned for development, if not developed or disposed of, need to be de-zoned.

Councillor Baker stated that everyone needs to work together to ensure that mistakes of the past are corrected into the future regarding the new CDP.

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor, as Chair of the Planning Group, thanked Ms. Clarke, Mr. Moylan and the Planning team for the report and the large amount of work involved in collating the report. He added that a successful workshop had already been held with more meetings to be scheduled in advance of the next draft issuing.

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, acknowledged the Members’ concerns around the level of house building and the complicated nature of the planning process. Ms. Clarke advised that all historical maps are available to view on the Council’s website and that she will liaise with the Senior Planner in relation to making the system of viewing maps more user friendly.

Regarding the Material Contravention process, Senior Planner, Mr. Moylan, informed the Members that the Council has to comply with Planning legislation on Material Contraventions, which must go, within a specified period of time, to the full Council to vote on the Material Contravention.

Legally, all pre-planning meetings and the database on same are private and details are only made available to the public when a planning application is lodged on foot of that pre-planning.

Councillor Clarke stated that while he accepted the fact that all Material Contraventions must go through the full Council, he proposed that a meeting of the Sligo-Strandhill MD take place prior to the July Ordinary meeting in order for a discussion to be held on the Material Contravention.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, advised the members that the Municipal Districts may convene meetings if they so wish to discuss the issues but added that there is no legal footing for the Executive be involved in any such MD meetings as all Material Contraventions are only required to go to the full Plenary meeting.

Mr. Lydon stressed the importance of discussions going through the County Development Plan process and in that regard, added that another workshop will be organised and maps will be made available at the workshop.

Mr. Lydon pointed out to the Members that a previous motion around Strategic Residential Reserved Land was unanimously agreed in late 2021. This has been looked at in detail by the Planners and is why it is coming before the Members for a decision at this stage.

Senior Planner, Mr. Moylan, clarified to the Members, at that stage of the meeting, that the proposed Material Contravention is in the Sligo-Drumcliff electoral area, while most of the submissions received were from people living in the Sligo-Strandhill electoral area. Mr. Moylan advised that he will check the detail of the boundaries and will revert to the Members.

 

39.  RATIFICATION OF THE CONVENTION AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN HUMAN ORGANS ADOPTED IN 2014:

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

AND AGREED

“This Council calls on the Irish government to ratify, as soon as possible, The Convention against Trafficking in Human Organs which was adopted by the Council of Europe on 9 July 2014 in order to criminalise illegal organ transplantations. The Irish Government has already signed this convention, but is yet to ratify it.”

 

40.  CESSATION OF PERSECUTION AND RELEASE OF FALUN GONG PRACTITIONERS:

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

 

41.  INJURY CLINIC AT SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL FOR MINOR INJURIES:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor and Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“That this Council write to the Minister for Health to introduce an injury clinic at Sligo University Hospital for minor injuries;  This would alleviate the waiting time at the Emergency Department and free the medical staff for more urgent cases.”

 

42.  UPDATE ON THE EASTERN GARAVOGUE BRIDGE:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council give an update on the Eastern Garavogue Bridge”.  

In a report previously circulated, Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, advised the members that this scheme has been developed as a traffic calmed urban distributor road consisting of a single carriageway with cycle lanes and footpaths. 

Planning Approval has been received and some advance works have already been carried out. Work to re-procure consultancy design services for the detailed design and construction supervision of the scheme is ongoing. It is intended to complete the detailed design and tender documents in 2023 with a view to having the scheme ready to commence construction in 2024 with a construction completion date in 2026.

Councillor Fox stated that this project needs to be progressed as a matter of urgency as it will also address a lot of issues around housing in Sligo town and also in the Sligo-Drumcliff area when completed.

 

43.  CONCERNS REGARDING OVERCROWDING IN THE ED DEPARTMENT AT SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to Minister Stephen Donnelly outlining this Council’s concerns regarding the overcrowding in the ED department at Sligo University Hospital.”

It was also agreed that a new Surgical Unit is required at Sligo University Hospital and Councillor Gilroy stated that with his colleagues, Councillor Bree and Councillor O’Grady, this matter has been raised at Regional Health Forum meetings.

 

44.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Votes of Sympathy were recorded.

 

45.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Neil O’Connell and Orla Buckley on the huge success of the recent Wild Roots Festival, the huge attendance of 11,500 people, an incredible event for this County and for the North West.  There was a phenomenal atmosphere, and the event was very well organised and well run.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Joe Keaney, Derry, Grange, Co Sligo on the award to him of the U20 Connacht Player of the Championship and on the team’s first ever Connacht U20 title.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Alan Gaynor, Irish Golf Team on Ireland’s win in Golf’s European Championship in Belgium. The team won by 25 shots.  Congratulations on this outstanding achievement recognised by this Local Authority.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ann McCauley, Tusla and Kate McGoldrick, Home Youth Liaison Service on the achievement of the recent launch of their publication ‘My Own Jungle’ book which tells the story of experiences of children in care in Sligo and Leitrim, and to acknowledge the work of the eight children involved.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ms. Aoife Kilgallon, Drumkilsellagh, Calry, Co Sligo on the brilliant run to win gold medal for the Women’s 5,000 metres at the National Senior Track and Field Championship in Santry.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Sligo Folk Park, Riverstown, Co Sligo on winning the Pride of Place.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the staff and management, Mary and team, at the Diamond Coast Hotel, Enniscrone on winning the Connaught Wedding Venue of the Year 2022 at the wedding online awards.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Bella Brava restaurant, The Mill Centre, Coolaney, Co Sligo on winning the Italian Restaurant of 2022 Connacht at the Yes Chef Awards.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of thanks be extended to Mr. Gerry Powell, Rockfield, Coolaney, Co Sligo on his retirement from working with Coolaney Tidy Towns as a Sligo Leader Partnership TUS worker.  Thank you for your work around Coolaney village.”

 

46.  CONFERENCES / TRAINING:

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

 

47.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

The Members noted the items under this heading.

 

48.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

 

49.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

50.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

No item was raised under this heading.

 

END OF MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach thanked the Members for their co-operation at the meeting.

The business of the meeting concluded at 12.50 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 13/06/2022