Minutes 2022

Minutes of May Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10am on Monday 9th May 2022 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 MacSharry(R),
  • Councillor Maguire(R),
  • Councillor Mullaney(R),
  • Councillor Mulvey(R),
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor O’Grady(R),
  • 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,
  • Emer Concannon, A/Director of Services
  • Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services(C),
  • Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Karen McMahon, IT Staff Officer
  • Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator,
  • Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer.

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

  • Cathaoirleach, Councillor Paul Taylor, presided.
  • Sligo County Council and
  • Municipal Districts”.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting.

Members participating remotely were Councillor Casserly, Councillor Connolly, Councillor Fox, Councillor MacSharry, Councillor Maguire, Councillor Mullaney, Councillor Mulvey and Councillor O’Grady.

 

1.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF CRANMORE REGENERATION STEERING GROUP HELD ON 23RD NOVEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of Cranmore Regeneration Steering Group held on 23rd November 2021.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF SPC4 CLIMATE CHANGE GROUP HELD ON 10TH DECEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of the SPC4 Climate Change Group held on 10th December 2021.”

 

3.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF COUNTY SLIGO JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE HELD ON 10TH DECEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of the County Sligo Joint Policing Committee held on 10th December 2021.”

 

4.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF SCC AUDIT COMMITTEE HELD ON 14TH DECEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of SCC Audit Committee held on 14th December 2021.”

 

5.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF LTACC HELD ON 15TH DECEMBER 2021:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of LTACC held on 15th December 2021.”

 

6.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 14TH FEBRUARY 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District held on 14th February 2022.”

 

7.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 14TH MARCH 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District held on 14th March 2022.”

 

8.  MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT TO CONSIDER THE SCHEDULE OF MD WORKS 2022 HELD ON 21ST MARCH 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the minutes of Special Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District to consider the schedule of MD Works 2022 held on 21st March 2022.”

 

9.  MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 4TH APRIL 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 4th April 2022.”

 

10.  MINUTES OF ADJOURNED ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 11TH APRIL 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 11th April 2022.”

Councillor Healy requested that his motion on the Old Mill Apartments in Ballisodare, as discussed and agreed at the Adjourned April Ordinary Meeting, be kept on the agenda and that a report issue to the members on this matter in due course.

Chief Executive Mr. Lydon advised that while he can meet with the developer to try and progress the matter, it is not his role to request or organise a meeting between the developer and a delegation from the Ballisodare community.

 

11.  MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF THE CO SLIGO PLACENAMES COMMITTEE:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by M. Clarke

AND AGREED

“To note minutes of meetings of the County Sligo Placenames Committee held on (a) 20th April 2021, (b) 5th May 2021, (c) 9th November 2021 and (d) 23rd March 2022.”

 

12.  PLACENAME PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CO SLIGO PLACENAMES COMMITTEE:

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

AND AGREED

“To consider placename proposals as recommended by the County Sligo Placenames Committee.”

Councillor Maguire stated that Queen Maeve as a name would be more recognised nationally and internationally from a tourism perspective as a name for the Stephen Street Car Park/Cultural Plaza project in Sligo. Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor confirmed that this proposal has been agreed.

Councillor O’Boyle wished to be noted as being disassociated from this proposal.

 

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

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

Councillor Gilroy requested that a report on this issue be provided at the next meeting of Sligo County Council confirming that two locations for these burial grounds have been identified.

 

14.  DISPOSAL IN FAVOUR OF MINISTER FOR TOURISM, CULTURE, ARTS, GAELTACHT, SPORT & MEDIA – SITE AT WATERPOINT AQUA PARK:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal by way of registration of a charge in favour of the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media on the freehold interest in the site of the Waterpoint Aqua Park.”

 

15.  DISPOSAL OF DEMOUNTABLE DWELLING AT GORTAHEEN, CULLEENS, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of a Demountable Dwelling at Gortaheen, Culleens, Co. Sligo to Ms. Linda Boland.”

Councillor Queenan queried if demountable dwellings will become an option for social housing once again due to the Ukrainian Refugee crisis, the current housing crisis and the rising costs of labour and building materials.

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised that the Council is reviewing its options in light of the Ukrainian Refugee crisis and is waiting on further clarification from the Department in this regard, however the Council is not currently looking at reviewing its policy regarding demountable dwellings.

 

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

Director of Services Ms. Clarke advised that an advanced draft of the Festival & Events Strategy has been prepared but not yet finalised due to the severe impact of Covid 19 on the tourism and performance sectors. The Strategy will be finalised as soon as it possible to do so, and must reflect what it happening in the tourism, performance and cultural sectors at a national level.

The position of Festival and Programming Officer to support the Council’s ongoing work in this area is currently being considered. The post has been included in the Council’s Workforce Plan. Once the Workforce Plan is agreed by the Department, the Council will follow up and request sanction for the filling of the post. On receipt of sanction the post can then be advertised, and recruitment progressed. 

The completion of the draft Strategy will be pursued once the Festival and Programming Officer is in place, which will be Q3-Q4 2022 at the earliest.  Councillor Walsh requested that this matter be kept on the agenda going forward.

Chief Executive Mr. Lydon advised that the post of Festival and Events Manager is included in the Workforce Plan which was submitted to the Department a number of weeks ago for approval. When the Department revert on the Workforce Plan, a further discussion can then be held on the filling of the Festivals and Events Manager post and sanction sought at that stage. The Members will be kept updated on this matter. Mr. Lydon noted that the formulation of the Workforce Plan is an Executive Function, which must be agreed with the unions. Once agreed, the Elected Members will be informed of overall numbers. Ms. Clarke advised that the post is not a permanent post but rather a contract position, possibly for a period of 2 – 3 years.

 

17.  CAS LOAN TO FOCUS HOUSING ASSOCIATION FOR 66 CORNMILL PARK, BALLYMOTE, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
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 €134,206,for No. 66 Cornmill Park, Ballymote, Co. Sligo.”

 

18.  REQUEST FOR USE OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL CREST:

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

AND AGREED

“Request for use of Sligo County Council crest.”

 

19.  APPROVE ALLOCATIONS UNDER THE COMMUNITY & VOLUNTARY GRANT SCHEME 2022:

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

AND AGREED

“Approve allocations under the Community & Voluntary Grant Scheme 2022.”

 

20.  LEASE OF PROPERTY AT BALLAST QUAY, SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the Lease of Property at Ballast Quay, Sligo to WEB Supplies Ltd.”

Councillor Bree stated that this case relates to a unit in the Market Yard, Sligo, rented from Sligo County Council for 31 years. They were exemplary tenants for this period. In 2021 when Sligo County Council in partnership with Leitrim County Council and Sligo IT decided to use the Market Yard as a Digital Manufacturing Centre the tenants were asked to vacate the property within three months and subsequently served with a Notice to Quit, with no proper consultation or offer of compensation. Instead, Circuit Court proceedings were instituted by the Council against the tenant. Councillor Bree noted his disappointment with the manner in which the matter was handled by the Council and queried the legal costs incurred by the Council.

Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised that the legal fees to date are approximately €6,000. The Council had sought mediation with the tenant which did not materialise and the matter then progressed to legal proceedings, resulting in the proposal before the Members.  Mr. Molloy acknowledged that lessons had been learned from this matter.

 

21.  DISPOSAL OF DWELLING HOUSE AND ITS PROPERTY AT RAILWAY WALK, COLLOONEY, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of dwelling house and its property at Railway Walk, Collooney, Co. Sligo to Ms. Denise Lavin.”

In response to a query from Councillor Healy, Director of Services, Mr. Molloy advised that the money raised from the sale of this property will not be held in the Collooney area and will be assigned to the general housing fund. He further advised that renovating this property was not considered value for money and that the Council has other demands of a higher priority.

 

22.  ARRANGEMENTS FOR AGM OF A) SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AND B) MUNICIPAL DISTRICTS:

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

AND AGREED

“To make arrangements for Annual General Meetings of:

It was agreed to convene the Annual General Meeting of Sligo County Council on Friday 17th June 2022 at 10.00am.

It was also agreed to convene the Annual General Meetings of the three Municipal Districts at dates already agreed at the last respective meetings of the Municipal Districts, as follows:

Sligo-Drumcliffe MD               12pm Monday 20th June

Ballymote-Tubbercurry MD     2pm Monday 20th June

Sligo Borough MD                   10am Monday 27th June.

 

23.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR APRIL 2022:

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

AND AGREED

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

 

24.  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 June Ordinary Meeting.

 

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

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

 

26.  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 June Ordinary Meeting.

 

27.  RE-ESTABLISH COVID EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM AS RESPONSE TO UKRAINIAN REFUGEE CRISIS:

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

AND AGREED

“This Council will re-establish our Covid emergency response team with a view to responding comprehensively to the Ukrainian refugee crisis and will support the work of Rapid Response Ukraine including, if possible, the provision of a drop-in centre for refugees to reconnect and obtain necessary supports and information.”

The meeting was advised that the Department has established a local Interagency and Community Response Forum to provide a co-ordinated response to support refugees arriving from Ukraine. The model is under constant review. Meetings are taking place involving key stakeholders and the forum will be broadened out as necessary to include other agencies in response to the trajectory of needs of those who seek refuge in Sligo.

 

28.  REVISION OF PLANNING LAWS / REFURBISHMENT GRANT – PUTTING OLDER HOMES BACK INTO USE / REFURBISHMENT OF HOMES:

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

AND AGREED

“This Council will write to department of the environment urging planning laws to be revised to make it easier for people to bring older homes back into use, and for a €60,000 refurbishment grant to be put in place to help those willing to refurbish homes to an improved standard.”

 

29.  REMEDIAL REPAIR WORKS ON WALKING ROUTES BEFORE THE SUMMER SEASON:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council will undertake remedial repair works on walking routes before the summer season around the county. In particular to enquire if a better surface which would be mobility friendly could be placed to facilitate sea swimmers at Dorrins Strand.”

Director of Services Ms. Clarke advised the Members that remedial repair works on off-road walking routes will be carried out before the summer season, subject to resources and in compliance with restrictions. Many walking routes remain the primary responsibility of other agencies such as Coillte. Regular maintenance is carried out at the Sligo/Strandhill and the Cleveragh/Doorly Park areas.

A review of the existing Killaspugbrone Trail surface at Strandhill will be examined to determine how it can be further improved to enhance its mobility friendly condition throughout, including at Dorrins Strand. Any identified remedial works can be included in a future programme of works for consideration, subject to available grant funding and eligibility criteria.

 

30.  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 June Ordinary Meeting.

 

31.  RE-NAMING OF CLARION ROAD TO JACK B. YEATS ROAD:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Gibbons was deferred and to be listed as agenda item for the next meeting of the Sligo Borough District.

 

32.  SURVEY AND RE-MARKING OF ROAD ON N15 BETWEEN MONEYGOLD AND CLIFFONEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask that the section of road on the N15 between Moneygold and Cliffoney be surveyed by the RSA, TII and Sligo County Council and following on the results that this stretch of road be re-marked to include proper, clearly marked turning lanes to make this road safer for local residents and all road users until funding is designated for a new road.”

Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon advised that Sligo County Council will raise this issue with TII.

Councillor Casserly requested that the Members be informed when TII revert on this important issue and that an update be provided at the September meeting.

Councillor Gilroy requested details of a recent survey carried out at Carns and Castlegal schools be made available.

 

33.  DIVERSION SIGNS ON ALTERNATIVE ROUTE FOLLOWING RECENT ACCIDENTS ON N59 BETWEEN CORHOWNAGH AND LUGAWARRY, BALLISODARE:

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

AND AGREED

“That extra diversion signs be made available along the alternative route following recent road traffic accidents on the N59 between Corhownagh and Lugawarry, Ballisodare which was closed overnight. There was no signage at the Coolaney N59 Hungry Rock junction and some vehicles were going into Coolaney village.”

Members were advised that following the accidents, diversion signs were erected along the routes in both directions and the road closure was managed by Council personnel. While these measures were considered adequate, it was acknowledged that traffic may have entered Coolaney village before the diversion signs were erected.

It was agreed that this matter be referred to the JPC for further discussion.

 

34.  IMPROVED PEDESTRIAN CROSSING FACILITIES OUTSIDE COLLOONEY POST OFFICE:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council provide improved pedestrian crossing facilities outside Collooney Post Office.”

Members were advised that there is an existing uncontrolled pedestrian crossing point at this location. There is no funding in this year’s programme to upgrade to a controlled pedestrian crossing in the form of a zebra or pelican crossing.

Councillor Fox requested that these works be scheduled at the earliest possible opportunity.

 

35.  OPPOSITION TO GOVERNMENT DECISION TO GRANT PROSPECTING LICENCES IN NORTH LEITRIM:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan on his decision to grant prospecting licences affecting more than 40 townlands in North Leitrim, and how this decision will affect Sligo as well.”

 

36.  CALL ON GOVERNMENT TO REVERSE PROPOSAL TO BAN THE SALE OF TURF:

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

 

37.  FUNDING TO DEVELOP CYCLE AND WALKWAY ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY IN WEST SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke, Councillor D. Mulvey, Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to seek funding and put plans in place to develop a cycle and walkway along the Wild Atlantic Way in west Sligo, connecting Ballisodare, Dunmoran Strand, Aughris Head, Trawee beach, Dromore West, Easkey, Rathlee, Enniscrone onto Ballina.”

The Members were advised that the National Transport Authority (NTA) has appointed consultants AECOM to complete a Cycle Strategy for County Sligo. This strategy will examine possible cycle interventions along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Sligo.

 

38.  INSTALLATION OF EV CHARGING POINTS AROUND THE COUNTY:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Queenan was deferred and to be listed as an agenda item at the next Meeting of the Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District.

 

39.  REPLACEMENT OF MAIN WATER PIPES ON MAIN STREET ENNISCONE AND ROAD 94 KILGLASS:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach this item, as listed by Councillor Queenan was deferred and to be listed as an agenda item at the next Meeting of the Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District.

 

40.  FAVOURABLE CONSIDERATION OF PLANNING APPLICATIONS BY RETURNING IMMIGRANTS FOR PROVISION OF FAMILY HOME ON FAMILY OWNED LANDS:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Draft County Development Plan contains a provision for favourable consideration of planning applications by returning immigrants to provide a family home on family owned land.”

The Members were advised of the requirements for returning emigrants seeking planning permission in rural locations. It is expected that returning emigrants will be requested to demonstrate a social need to live in the areas where their original family homes are located, and therefore continue to comply with the rural housing policy requirements of the (Draft) Sligo CDP 2023-2029.

 

41.  REVIEW OF ILLEGAL PARKING:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council review the issue of illegal parking.”   

Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon advised the Members that Sligo County Council will liaise with the JPC regarding the issue of illegal parking.

The Members welcomed the fact that this matter will be referred to the JPC for discussion and added that more planning, campaigns to create greater public awareness and stricter enforcement are required together with multi agency supports being in place in the interests of public safety.

 

42.  FUNDING FOR EXTENSION AND UPGRADING OF THE RENAL DIALYSIS UNIT AT S.U.H.:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly requesting as a matter of urgency capital funding for the extension and upgrading of the Renal Dialysis Unit at S.U H.”

Councillor Gilroy advised that this issue is to be discussed at the next meeting of the Regional Health Forum and he will keep the Members updated on the matter.

 

43.  VOTE FOR THE THIRTY-NINTH AMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION (RIGHT TO HOUSING) BILL 2020:

Proposed by Councillor Bree, Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor Gibbons, Councillor Healy

AND AGREED

“Cognisant of the ever intensifying housing crisis and recognising that access to secure and genuinely affordable housing is increasingly out of reach for many people, Sligo County Council calls on government T.D.’s to vote for the Thirty-ninth Amendment of the Constitution (Right to Housing) Bill 2020.”

 

44.  APPLICATION FOR FORTHLAND EASKEY TO BE INCLUDED IN THE NEW GOVERNMENT SCHEME TARGETING WASTE WATER COLLECTION AND TREATMENT:

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

AND AGREED

“Given that the Minister for Local Government Darragh O’Brien has announced a new funding scheme of €50m targeting waste water collection and treatment needs of villages, 85% funded by government, I now call on Sligo County Council to apply for Forthland Easkey to be included in this scheme.”

Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon informed the Members that the Council is considering a number of settlements, including Fortland Easkey, for inclusion in the feasibility submission assessment, under the criteria and guidelines provided by the DHLGH, for this scheme.

Councillor Clarke stated that it is vital that Easkey is included in the new Scheme as the current facilities at this location will not be able to accommodate any extra usage.

 

45.  ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR IN LOCAL AUTHORITY HOUSING ESTATES IN THE COUNTY:

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

AND AGREED

“Call on this council to use all legal means and resources available to it to deal in a rapid fashion with the increasing number of complaints of anti-social behaviour in (Local Authority) housing estates in the county.

And that any intervention by Sligo County Council includes all state bodies with responsibility for child protection in particular Tusla. Communities within the county cannot be left victims of parents and guardians who can't or won’t take responsibility for those in their care.”

Mr Jim Molloy, Director of Services, presented a report detailing the number of complaints received by the Council in relation to anti-social behaviour, minor criminal damage, minor noise nuisance, trespass and estate management issues since 2019. The report noted that there had not been significant increases in anti-social behaviour, although there appeared to be a gradual increase in noise and estate management related issues based on the first quarter figures for 2022.

It was suggested that the training given to new tenants could be strengthened and that the Tenants Handbook be circulated to all Council tenants to emphasise that breaches of tenancy will be severely dealt with. 

It was noted that residents are often afraid to make a complaint due to intimidation from a minority of members of a community and there should be a safe and confidential forum where such complaints can be made and acted upon without delay.

Mr. Murphy SEO Housing, advised the Members that all complaints received, by any means, are followed up. When complaints proceed to court, the Housing Investigations Officer outlines the nature of complaints, and the identity of the complainant is protected. Each case is, however, evidence based and such evidence must be presented to the courts when the case is being heard. Eviction Orders can only be issued by the courts who must also consider the matter of homelessness for families being evicted, who will then have to seek emergency accommodation. Mr. Murphy also advised that the Council engage with TUSLA and the Gardaí on a regular basis where appropriate to address ongoing issues.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, stated that Sligo County Council does not accept or tolerate anti-social behaviour by its tenants and will recommend evictions in cases of serious breaches of tenancies, but added that this is a very complex issue. If there is sufficient evidence of anti-social behaviour, cases will proceed to court and it is the courts who rule on subsequent evictions. A multi agency approach is taken where appropriate and requires bravery from tenants giving evidence in order to get results. In response to a query, Mr. Lydon advised that if tenants are evicted for anti-social behaviour they may apply to access emergency accommodation.

 

46.  PROVISION OF WINTER SUITABLE LIFESAVING RINGS AT ALL BEACHES IN THE COUNTY:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in response to the increase in all year open water bathing provide winter suitable lifesaving rings at all beaches in the county. The design and number of these would be less than required during the summer months and these would need to be located where they would not be affected by winter storms.”

The Members were advised that the four designated bathing areas in Sligo are due to have their Risk Assessments renewed this year.  As part of the Risk Assessments, Sligo County Council will ask Water Safety Ireland to advise as to the best location for a permanent ring buoy at each of the bathing areas. In conjunction with the Area offices, suitable locations at other popular winter swimming locations will also be investigated, where ring buoys can be left in-situ over the winter months.

 

47.  STRATEGIC POLICY TO ASSIST IN THE PROVISION OF PRIVATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE COUNTY:

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

AND AGREED

“That the Housing SPC of Sligo County Council bring to the July 2022 meeting of Sligo County Council a strategic policy to assist in the provision of private housing developments to meet the housing needs of the county over the coming years.”

Councillor Gilroy requested clarity on whether this issue is pertinent to the Housing & Corporate or the Planning SPC and added that the issue around planning for private developments needs to be addressed urgently. Councillor Gilroy noted that there is still a huge shortage of houses and the Council must look at ways to attract more applications to build houses and define a rolling policy in this regard rather than the development of a County Development Plan every five to six years. Councillor Casserly suggested that a delegation from this Council meet with the Minister to discuss the issues in Sligo.

Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon stated that there are currently 436 live planning applications on hand and that market conditions are a factor in provision of houses and applications submitted. The County Development Plan will give guidance to developers regarding submission of planning applications for housing developments. It may be the case that consultation needs to take place with the private sector to understand the issues they have regarding submission of planning applications. These issues are not unique to Sligo. The next CDP needs to contain a provision that if lands zoned for housing are not developed, then such lands will be de-zoned.  The pressure will be on the Members to ensure that more lands in the county are zoned for Housing to meet population growth and density issues and it is the Executive’s job to advise the Members in this regard.

 

48.  AMOUNTS PAID TOWARDS COST OF ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL AND CHIRISTMAS LIGHTS:

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

“That payments or grants paid by Sligo County Council towards the cost of running St. Patrick’s Day Festivals and towards Christmas lights are divided equally between the three Municipal Districts of County Sligo.”

Director of Services, Ms. Clarke informed the Members that there is no specific grant scheme available for the funding of St Patricks Day festivals. However, applications for St Patrick’s Day activities are normally made to the Events category of the Community & Voluntary Grants scheme. The onus is on festival organising committees to make an application to the scheme. To date, the award of funding is based on the merits of the application, not by municipal district. 

The report also advised that the ‘Rural Towns & Villages’ Christmas Lights Grant Scheme, which is part of the Community and Voluntary Grant Scheme, has since its inception in 2019 delivered over €52,250 in funding across the county benefitting a total of 33 small towns and villages. As is the case with the St. Patrick’s Day festivals, the onus is on community groups to apply for the funding and to date, the award of funding is based on the merits of the application, not by municipal district.

Following a discussion on the motion it was agreed that the Director of Services would devise a policy on funding for Christmas lights in rural areas.

Councillor Gilroy agreed to amend his motion as follows:

“That payments or grants paid by Sligo County Council towards the cost of running St. Patrick’s Day Festivals and towards Christmas lights are divided on the basis of population centres in County Sligo.”

 

49.  REPORT ON AMOUNTS PAID TO PRIVATE LANDLORDS UNDER A) HAP  B) RAS  C) LONG TERM LEASING SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“That a report be provided indicating (A) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Scheme in 2021 (B) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) Scheme in 2021 (C) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Long Term Social Housing Leasing Scheme in 2021.”

A report from Director of Services, Mr Molloy detailed the amounts paid to private landlords under the HAP Scheme, the RAS scheme and the Long Term Social Housing Leasing Scheme in 2021.

Councillor Bree thanked the Director for the report, which, he said, confirms the colossal sums of public monies being paid to private landlords.  The HAP scheme has become the primary source of social housing in the country and HAP rates have not increased for tenants who have to pay top ups to landlords.  Councillor Bree added that the HAP scheme is of no long term value to the state and the solution is public housing building programmes and investment in affordable housing.

 

50.  INTRODUCTION OF A UNIVERSAL ONE-TIER HEALTHCARE SYSTEM:

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

AND AGREED

“Recognising the failure and the inequality of Ireland’s two-tier health system, this Council calls on the government to introduce a universal one-tier healthcare system which will guarantee access to medical care on the basis of medical need, not income.”

 

51.  PERMANENT HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION SERVICE AT THE GREENSTAR CIVIC WASTE FACILITY AT DEEPWATER QUAY, SLIGO:

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, and following a brief discussion, 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 

“To request that Sligo County Council begin discussions with Panda Waste t/a Greenstar Recycling to investigate the potential for a permanent Hazardous Waste collection service at their Civic Waste Facility at Deep Water Quay and, in the interim, that Sligo County Council would write to the Minister for the Environment to provide funding to organise Hazardous Waste collection days at a location within the Borough each year on an ongoing basis with at least 2 collection days to be held in 2022.”

The Members were advised that Sligo County Council has engaged with the operators of the Civic Amenity Site at Deep Water Quay over the last number of years regarding the provision of a household hazardous waste facility. The facility in question holds an IED Licence issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and as such Sligo County Council has no role at the facility. The operators at the site are continuing to investigate potential solutions which will allow the site to accept hazardous waste(s). Sligo County Council does provide a household hazardous waste collection at its Tubbercurry Civic Amenity site. In relation to a dedicated hazardous waste collection day in Sligo Town, Sligo County Council does not currently have any funding available to provide this service.

 

52.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Votes of Sympathy were recorded.

 

53.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Sligo U20 Gaelic football team, to Manager Mr. Dessie Sloyan and the Management Team, on their recent historic Connacht final win. The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Taylor requested that a Civic Reception in their honour be held in the coming months at a date to be agreed.

Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy

Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ms. Gráinne McCann and Management at Sligo University Hospital on the opening of the Diabetes Centre on Friday 6th May 2022 and to convey our congratulations to the staff and voluntary groups who have worked so hard to deliver this for the people of Sligo.

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh

Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Mercy College Soccer Team on winning the Connacht Final by defeating Presentation College Headford.  Congratulations to the Team and Coach Mr. O’Dowd.

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly

Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Sligo Minor Ladies team who won the Minor B title last weekend, and to Mr. Martin O’Hagan and the Management Team on their success.

Councillor Baker extended his congratulations to his Sinn Féin colleagues on the party’s result in the recent Northern Ireland Assembly elections.

The members extended their congratulations to Councillor Bree on the recent celebration of the marriage of his daughter.

 

54.  CONFERENCES / TRAINING:

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

 

55.  SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:

The Members noted the items under this heading.

 

56.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

 

57.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No matter was raised under this heading.

 

58.  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 and encouraged everyone to stay safe. 

The business of the meeting concluded at 12.55 p.m.

 


Meeting Date 09/05/2022