Minutes 2023
Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council Held at 10.00am on Monday 6th March 2023 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Baker
- Councillor Bree
- Councillor Casserly
- Councillor Clarke
- Councillor Fox
- Councillor Gibbons
- Councillor Gilroy
- Councillor MacSharry(R)
- Councillor Maguire
- Councillor Mullaney
- Councillor Mulvey
- Councillor O’Boyle
- Councillor O’Grady
- Councillor Queenan
- Councillor Taylor
- Councillor Walsh
(R) = participated in the meeting remotely
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Martin Lydon, Chief Executive,
- Jim Molloy, Director of Services
- Emer Concannon, A/Director of Services,
- Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
- Marie Whelan, Head of Finance(R)
- John Moran, A/Director of Services
- Donal Tinney, County Librarian
- Sean Martin, Acting Senior Architect(R)
- Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
- Pamela Andison, Administrative Officer
- Jennifer Burns, Meetings Administrator
- Karen McMahon, IS Technical Support Officer
- Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach Councillor Michael Clarke, presided.
APOLOGIES:
Apologies were received from Councillors. Connolly and Healy.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:
The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting.
The Cathaoirleach also extended a welcome to a group of ATU students who were present in the Chamber to observe the meeting and to members of Cómhairle na nÓg who were due to give a presentation at the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP HELD ON 13TH JANUARY 2023:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To note the Minutes of Meeting of Corporate Policy Group held on 13th January 2023.”
2. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 13TH FEBRUARY 2023:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 13th February 2023.”
3. PRESENTATION BY COMHAIRLE NA NÓG:
Three members of Cómhairle na nÓG, Beth Candon, Alfie Barron and Áine McGowan addressed the meeting. The presentation focused on three main issues experienced by young people, as discussed at the organisation’s 2022 AGM, i.e. Mental Health, Shortage of Transport, and the lack of Youth Facilities.
The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Clarke, and the Members thanked Beth, Alfie and Áine for the comprehensive, consise and detailed presentation, which highlighted some important issues pertinent to our society today. The Members assured the speakers and Tara and Kate, who work with Cómhairle na nÓG, of their full support around the issues raised, which are regularly discussed at their monthly meetings and encouraged the organisation to make contact with them for any further supports or assistance required.
It is crucial, the Members added, that these issues continue to be brought to the fore and the stigma around mental heallth broken by this generation.
It was confirmed that a copy of the presentation would be forwarded to TII, Local Link and Bus Éireann to support the Council’s ongoing efforts to improve access to public transport in Sligo Town and County.
The Members commended the organisation members, their parents and teachers for their involvement in promoting the needs of young people in our society and for fighting for continued improvements to all services for young people.
Áine, on behalf of her fellow speakers and the Cómhairle na nÓg organisation, thanked the Cathaoirleach, Councillor Clarke, the Members and the Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon for the opportunity to speak at the meeting.
4. NORTH–WEST HOMELESSNESS ACTION PLAN:
As items 4 and 32 related to similar matters, the Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would take both items at this time.
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To adopt the North-West Homelessness Action Plan 2023-2028.”
32. REPORT ON HOMELESSNESS SERVICES:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with a report on homeless services and emergency accommodation for people on the Housing Waiting list who present themselves as homeless, the report to include: (A) details of emergency accommodation; (B) the number of persons who sought and were provided with emergency accommodation in 2022; (C) if there are plans to expand the homeless services in the current year.”
A report circulated in advance of the meeting provided details of emergency accommodation and those seeking emergency accommodation in Sligo, together with details of plans to expand homeless service provision in 2023.
The Members, noting the 2023-2028 North-West Homelessness Action Plan, acknowledged the housing crisis and the lack of accommodation in the region, and paid tribute to the housing staff, and to the staff in the homeless hostels for their work in the very challenging area of homelessness and in the preparation of the Plan, which overall a very positive Plan for Sligo and the North-West region.
In response to queries, the Members were advised as follows:
In relation to supports for rough sleepers, those who are deemed to be long term homeless and rough sleepers would immediately qualify for the Housing First programme, which works with clients to provide wraparound ongoing supports to them.
In relation to co-operation between the Council with the HSE and other agencies who assist homeless people and those in stepdown facilities, the Council works in close contact with colleagues in other agencies around the provision of assistance to clients who present as homeless, in addition to their need for accommodation.
In relation to Housing First targets, the Council has completed a three year programme, and is currently in an extension year which is a prelude to the commencement of another five year programme. Over the life of the next five-year programme, the targets will be expanded for the North-West region, i.e. Sligo, Donegal and Leitrim and will include those in long term homelessness and rough sleepers with a number of specific mental and physical health needs.
Regarding provision of assistance under the HAP Placefinder service, this programme is available to a wide range of clients and provides benefits to those at risk of homelessness who are in need of accommodation through Notice to Quit, overcrowding, leaving a hostel setting etc.
Those who present for hostel accommodation in Sligo Town, are required to present to the Council for assessment during office hours, which process is complex and can take up to one hour to complete. If someone presents to the Council and it is evident that they have been rough sleeping, a place will immediately be offered to them in emergency accommodation, depending on bed availability.
5. CIVIC RECEPTION FOR THE SLIGO ROVERS TEAM:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To consider holding a Civic Reception for the Sligo Rovers Team that won the League Cup of 1998 on their 25th anniversary.”
6. NOMINATE 4 SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO THE CULTURE TEAM:
It was proposed to nominate three Members to the Culture Team, in addition to the Cathaoirleach, Councillor Michael Clarke, as follows:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To nominate Councillor Declan Bree to the Culture Team.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To nominate Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady to the Culture Team.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To nominate Councillor Marie Casserly to the Culture Team.”
7. NOMINATE SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBER TO THE ‘BUILDING EUROPE WITH LOCAL COUNCILLORS’ NETWORK:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To nominate Councillor Donal Gilroy to the ‘Building Europe with Local Councillors’ network.”
8. DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC – SCÁTH NA SLÉIBHE & FAIRWAYS:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council being satisfied of their general public utility declare the Roads named below to be public roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993.”
Road No. Location and Terminal Points
L-35038-0 The road serving development known as
“Scáth na Sléibhe, Strandhill, Co. Sligo.
L-45036-0, L-45036-1 The Roads serving development known as
L-45036-2, L-45036-3 “Fairways”, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo.”
L-45036-4 and L-45036-5
9. DISPOSAL OF FREEHOLD INTEREST IN PROPERTY AT SHANNON OUGHTER, CO SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of the freehold interest in property at Shannon Oughter, Co. Sligo to Sonia Gilmartin.”
10. DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 23 WILLOW PARK, MAUGHERABOY, SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor G. G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 23 Willow Park, Maugheraboy, Sligo to Gerald Wynne.”
11. DISPOSAL OF FREEHOLD INTEREST IN PROPERTY AT 11 PEARSE CRESCENT, PEARSE ROAD, SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of the freehold interest in property at No. 11 Pearse Crescent, Pearse Road, Sligo to Gerard Forde.”
12. DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT CURRY, CO SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of Property at Curry, Co Sligo to Margaret Walsh.”
13. DISPOSAL OF LANDS AT ADELAIDE STREET, SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of lands at Adelaide Street, Sligo, to the Housing Agency.”
In response to a query from Councillor Gilroy on the rights of way for some property owners in the area from John St to the Adelaide Street car park, Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised that these rights of way are on the Housing Agency owned lands, and not on the small portion of land now being disposed of by the Council, and will, therefore, remain in place. He confirmed that the land being disposed of in this S.183 report refers to a small piece of land at the back of the Adelaide Street car park marked in orange on the map circulated, and is the portion of the car park that abuts onto the wall at the rear of the car park at the N4.
Mr. Molloy, in response to a query from Councillor O’Grady, further advised that the car park at Adelaide Street, owned by the Housing Agency and leased by the Council, will be converted to housing in the next 12 to 18 months.
14. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2023:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To note the Monthly Management Report for February 2023.”
15. REFORMS TO DISABLED DRIVERS & DISABLED PASSENGERS SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“That this local Authority Calls on the Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, The Greens & soft Independents Government (Dept. of Finance) to bring about much needed reforms to the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers scheme.”
Following discussion, a vote on the motion was called by the Cathaoirleach.
The result of the vote was as follows:
FOR: 3
AGAINST: 11
The Cathaoirleach declared the motion lost.
16. REPORT ON COUNCIL’S FIRST TIME HOUSING SCHEMES:
As items 16 and 19 related to similar matters, the Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would take both items at this time.
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on the Council’s first-time housing schemes.
How many applications were received in 2022? How many applications were approved?
To call on the Minister for Housing to give a breakdown county by county on approved applications.”
19. REPORT ON LOCAL AUTHORITY HOME LOANS:
“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare a report on Local authority home loans. How many was applied for? How many was granted in 2022? To be eligible for a Local Authority Home Loan you must: be a first-time buyer and be aged between 18 and 70 years, and to call on the Minister for Housing to give a breakdown county by county.”
In relation to item 16, Director of Services, Mr. Molloy advised in a report that the ‘First Home Scheme’, which is not a Council scheme, is making €400 million available to facilitate the purchase of 8,000 homes over a five-year period and that approval has been given to 750 applications since its launch in July 2022.
Mr. Molloy also advised in a report circulated, in relation to item 19, that 26 valid applications were received in 2022 under the Local Authority Home Loan Scheme, which was introduced on 4th January 2022. He also gave a breakdown of the various stages of those applications.
Following a discussion around the criteria for the housing loan scheme, Mr. Murphy, SEO, gave a brief background summary on the housing loan application process, from when an application is received, to the role of the Housing Agency in assessing and making recommendations to the Council on whether the loan should be approved, to the Council’s subsequent decision on applications, in line with its credit policy. Mr. Murphy also advised of the procedure for dealing with appeals following loan refusals, together with the various reasons for refusal.
17. PROGRESS REPORT ON UPGRADING THE LANDING FACILITY ON INISHMURRAY ISLAND:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To ask for a progress report on upgrading the landing facility on Inishmurray Island.”
A report circulated in advance of the meeting informed the Members that Sligo County Council has been advised by the NPWS that there are major concerns that the construction of a new proposed landing stage would result in increased visitor numbers to the island, which would have adverse effects on the integrity of this site and its birdlife, specifically the 4 birds of interest: Arctic Tern, Barnacle Goose, Shag and Herring Gull, and that this alone would mean that the refusal of any application to ABP would be highly probable. Members were advised that the OPW also expressed concerns of a greater chance of either accidental damage to or actual vandalism of important monuments on the island with increased human traffic and that the advice from the involved Statutory Bodies was that a formal application to ABP would not succeed.
Members were advised that, given the advice received, the Council has decided not to commit further resources in progressing this project as there is virtually no prospect of a successful application to ABP, and the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine (DAFM) has been advised that, due to the reasons outlined, Sligo County Council unfortunately cannot proceed with the proposed project and, therefore, will not be in a position to avail of the BALAMI grant funding for this project.
Councillor Casserly thanked the Acting Director of Services for the very detailed report, expressing disappointment at the outcome despite the large amount of resources that have been expended on this matter over the years and queried what the next steps could be in the matter. Councillor Casserly added that it is of vital importance that the OPW continue to maintain and conserve the island going forward. Councillor Gilroy suggested the seting up of an ‘Inishmurray Trust’ to secure the future of this monastic site which has huge tourism potential for the region and the country. Councillor Maguire suggested that this Council liaise with our Kerry County Council colleagues in relation to the Skellig Michael ancient monastic site which caters for rare bird breeds as well as tourists, to ascertain how issues similar to those on Inishmurray have been overcome.
Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, advised that the report issued to the Members on this motion had dealt with the matter raised, i.e. a progress report on the landing facility on the island, a decision on which was not made by the Council but rather by the relevant Government Department. Mr. Lydon suggested that, because of the importance of the issues outlined in the report, that a meeting could now be sought with the OPW and the NPWS, through the Heritage Forum, in an attempt to ascertain the next steps to move forward. This was agreed by the Members.
18. EXTENSION OF EVICTION BAN FOR TWO YEARS:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council calls on the government to extend the eviction ban for 2 years.”
20. NUMBER OF GHOST ESTATES IN COUNTY SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“How many ghost estates in Sligo County.”
In a report previously circulated, Director of Services, Ms. Clarke informed the Members that the National Survey by the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage in 2020 identified 3 No estates/developments in County Sligo as being unfinished or ghost estates.
In response to a query from Councillor O’Boyle on the use of the CPO process to get these estates back into use, Ms. Clarke advised that this can be considered but is dependent on a number of factors, which is not a simple process and will take some time.
Responding to a query from Councillor Gilroy on two further developments in the Grange area which are unfinished and may qualify to be listed as ghost estates, Ms. Clarke clarified that a ghost estate is an estate that may have some houses unsold and unfinished and that that some developments may fall under derelict sites or unfinished estates dependent on the criteria for qualification as a ghost estate which is independently determined by the Department.
Ms. Clarke asked that, if Members are aware of any such unfinished developments in the County, they should make contact with herself or Mr. Mark Cummins for follow up.
21. ADDITION TO NEW COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN – USE OF CERTAIN CHEMICALS:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To add this to the new county development plan:
The use of the following chemicals as a processing agent shall not be permitted as part of any proposed processing operation located above or adjacent to surface or ground waters, or which could potentially impact such waters regardless of their location - mercury, cyanide or cyanide compounds, breakdown products of cyanide, or sulfuric acid. These present an unreasonable risk of environmental harm due to the toxicity of such chemicals and their demonstrated potential to cause damage to the environment.”
In a report circulated in advance of the meeting, Members were informed that all processing operations using chemicals with a potential to cause water pollution are subject to a statutory licence from the Local Authority, Irish Water or the EPA, depending on the type of process involved and if the discharge is to water or to a sewer. This includes the chemicals listed in this Notice of Motion and that the inclusion of these in the next draft of the CDP would not be the appropriate mechanism to deal with this matter as the use of such chemicals are better governed by regulation and licensing.
Councillor O’Boyle, noting the report, requested that item be considered for inclusion in the new CDP.
22. REFORM AND RESOURCE OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES (CAMHS):
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
“To call on the Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, The Greens and the soft Independence to fully implement the recently passed Sinn Fein motion in the Dáil that would reform and resource Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. (CAMHS).”
Following a discussion, a vote on this motion was called by the Cathaoirleach.
The result of the vote was as follows:
FOR: 3
AGAINST: 8
The Cathaoirleach declared the motion lost.
23. EXPLANATION FOR €1BN UNDERSPEND ON HOUSING IN 2022:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Gibbons, was deferred until the April Ordinary Meeting.
24. INTRODUCTION OF MORTGAGE INTEREST RELIEF TO SUPPORT STRUGGLING BORROWERS:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Gibbons, was deferred until the April Ordinary Meeting.
25. IMPLEMENTATION OF UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION ON RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (UNCRPD):
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Casserly, was deferred until the April Ordinary Meeting.
26. TREES POSING DANGERS TO PASSING TRAFFIC:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“I ask Sligo County Council if a survey can be carried out on dangerous trees such as large Ash and Chestnut which are dying and are in danger of falling out on traffic passing by and these trees removed.”
A report circulated advised that it is a landowner’s responsibility to ensure that trees, hedges etc on their lands do not obstruct or interfere with the safe use of a public road or maintenance of a public road. Members were advised that the Roads Act 1993 allows for a Local Authority to serve a written notice on the owner or occupier of land, requiring action to be taken to remove a danger or potential danger e.g. to cut down a tree if the local authority is aware of a dangerous tree along a public road and that, in this regard, if there are any particular issues at any location, these should be brought to the attention of the Municipal District Manager or Area Engineer.
In response to queries on raising awareness of and provision of part funding to landowners to remove dangerous trees, Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concanon re-iterated that it is the landowners responsibility to ensure that trees and hedges abutting onto roads are dealt with to ensure the safety of road users. She advised that the Roads Department will be happy, on request, to provide landowners with information relating to their responsibilities.
27. FAILURE OF GARDA OPERATING MODEL:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To write to the Minister for Justice, The Policing Authority and the Garda Commissioner to seek explanations as to why The Garda Operating Model that was introduced as part of A Policing Service for the Future, which is the implementation plan based on the report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland, has failed to achieve what it set out to achieve and what evaluation had occurred to address this.”
It was agreed to bring this matter to the next JPC meeting for discussion.
28. SURVEY OF SPEEDS AROUND ALL NATIONAL SCHOOLS IN THE COUNTY:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this council will conduct a survey of speeds around all national schools in the county.”
In a report circulated in advance of the meeting, Members were informed that appropriate signage and lining has been installed on the approaches to and outside most National Schools in County Sligo and that the Council endeavours to address appropriate roads related issues within its capacity in the public road space outside schools. Members were advised that the carrying out of a survey of speeds around all national schools in the County is not within the Council's capacity but that, if there are any particular issues at any location, these should be brought to the attention of the Municipal District Manager or Area Engineer.
The Members noted that the next speed limits review is due to be carried out in 2025. It was suggested that factors such as reducing limits outside schools, particularly those on National Primary routes, would be considered for the next review in consultation with the TII.
29. AVAILABILITY OF THE CF MEDICATION KAFTRIO TO PATIENTS WITHIN THE STATE:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“This Council write to Minister for Health asking him to make the CF medication Kaftrio available to all patients who require it within the State.”
It was further agreed to circulate this motion to all Local Authorities in support of the motion.
30. ACTION TO REDUCE ALARMING RATES OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Maguire, was deferred until the April Ordinary Meeting.
31. EXTRA SUPPORTS TO SHEEP FARMERS:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That this Council write to the Minister for Agriculture requesting he provides targeted support of €30/ewe to sheep farmers by building on the supports already announced in the Sheep Improvement Scheme of €12/ewe for this year.”
33. REPORT ON FIXED CHARGE NOTICES AND FINES IN RELATION TO NORTHERN IRELAND REGISTERED VEHICLES IN 2021 AND 2022:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with a report including details on the number of Northern Ireland registered vehicles which received Fixed Charge Notices for illegal parking in 2021 and in 2022, and which failed to pay the parking fine; the number that were referred to the company which the Council engages to collect such fines, and the number which subsequently paid the fines.”
In a report circulated to the Members, Head of Finance, Ms. Whelan advised of the number of fines issued, and the status of such fines, for 2021 and 2022, in relation to foreign registered vehicles. The report noted that, to date, no fines have been collected from Northern Ireland registered vehicles, which is being investigated and that the Council will continue to follow up on this process and implement further procedures as appropriate.
Councillor Bree advised that he will submit a query for the next meeting in relation to such fines going back to 2017.
34. REPORT ON MONEY PAID TO LANDLORDS UNDER HAP, RAS & LONG – TERM LEASING SCHEMES IN 2022:
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 2022 (B) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) Scheme in 2022 (C) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Long-Term Social Housing Leasing Scheme in 2022.”
A report circulated advised of the monies paid to private landlords as queried in Councillor. Bree’s motion.
Following a discussion on this matter, Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon advised that the process of administering the HAP and RAS schemes, as laid out by the Department, is a complex matter and that the Council has a social housing refusal rate of between 23% - 24%, which adds to the complexity of this issue. He stated that the Council is working with developers to try to bring vacant properties back into use, but that this can be a lengthy process.
Councillor Bree, acknowledging the Chief Executive’s comments, stated that these schemes should not be the primary source of housing and that more funding needs to be provided by central Government for social housing developments.
35. SET UP OF FESTIVAL & EVENTS COMMITTEE:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, an amendment to this item was placed before the Members and it was:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“In light of our festival and events Strategy being at draft stage and the recruitment of our festival and events manager which is now imminent, that this Council write to the Fáilte Ireland CEO and ask the following:
- What funding has been allocated to each Council in the country for festival and events over the last five years?
- That Sligo County Council request a meeting with Fáilte Ireland regarding the lack of funding coming into Sligo for festival and events.
- That Fáilte Ireland increase the allocated funding for the Fáilte Ireland Regional Festivals & Participative Events funding scheme in Sligo.”
Members were advised that the recruitment of a Festival & Events Co-ordinator is currently underway and that, whilst the establishment of a stakeholder/advisory group for this sector would be welcome, it would be premature at this stage.
36. WITHDRAWAL OF FUNDING FOR NEW PILOT MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMME FOR ADOLESCENTS:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“A new pilot mental health programme for adolescents was commissioned by the HSE in Sligo, Leitrim. Resources including staff (psychologist, therapist, social worker, business support). Funding for the programme has now been withdrawn.
That this Council writes to the Minister for Health, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People and the CEO of the HSE for a direct response on the following:
Why was this funding withdrawn? Who made this decision? Where has this funding been moved too? What service is in place for those on a CAMHS waiting list in Sligo, Leitrim?”
37. ALLOCATION OF FUNDING FOR HOUSING GRANTS – MAINTENANCE OF COUNCIL STOCK 2023:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“Ask the Director of Services Housing how much funding is allocated for A housing grants - adaptation grants, older people and disability; B maintenance or Council stock 2023.”
Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, in a report previously circulated, updated Members on the 2023 allocations for housing grants and for maintenance/planned maintenance of Council stock.
In response to a query from Councillor Queenan, Senior Executive Officer, Mr. Murphy advised that, of the 2023 allocation received for maintenance of Council stock, painting and upgrade works to tenant’s houses may be carried out from time to time as the need arises.
Councillor Baker requested that a previous request by Members to the Department for an increase to the Older Person’s grant be followed up.
38. WITHDRAWAL OF CRITICAL SERVICES FOR CHILDREN IN ST. CECILIA’S & ST JOSEPH’S SCHOOLS IN SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council seeks answers as to why critical services for children in St Cecilia’s and St Joseph’s Schools in Sligo have been taken away. Services such as speech and language, occupational therapy, physio, therapeutic services. That these services be reinstated in the school setting or a fast-track referral system be put in place for children with additional needs.
That this council write to the CEO of the HSE, the CEO of the SAOLTA Group and the manager of the Childrens Disability Network Team for CHO.”
39. ADVERTISEMNT & APPOINTMENT OF CONSULTANTS TO CARRY OUT LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council report to members on what date the appointment of Consultants Jacobs Engineering to carry out the Local Transport Plan and how long after Variation No. 1 to the current County Development Plan this was advertised, and the Consultants appointed.”
In a report previously circulated, Members were advised that the Consultant competition for the completion of the Area Based Transport Assessment and submission of the Local Transport Plan was advertised on April 01st 2022 and that the consultants were appointed on 18th May 2022.
Following a brief discussion, Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon informed the Members that any delays in this process are mainly due to difficulties in the recruitment process for engineers over the last three years, with Departmental sanction being required for each post.
40. REPORT ON PERMISSION OF COUNCIL TENANTS TO KEEP DOGS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Based on the response to motion 28 at January 2023 meeting that tenants must apply in writing for permission to keep any dog. Can Sligo County Council report on
- How many Tenants have applied in writing for permission to keep a dog in each of the following years. 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.
- How many have been approved and how many have been refused permission.
What percentage of the total housing stock have the owners been given permission to keep a dog.”
Members were advised in a report that with regards to parts 1 and 2 of the motion, that the Council maintains records only as part of the tenant’s file and does not, nor is it required to, collate a record of the number of applications, or of the decisions made on those applications.
With regard to part 3 of the motion, Members were advised that, as the Council has no central record of the number of permissions granted, it is not possible to provide the information sought.
In response to Councillor Gilroy’s request that a report on dogs kept in Council houses, taken from a sample of properties, be prepared for next month’s meeting, Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, advised that applications for permission to keep dogs are placed on tenants’ files and that any complaints received are followed up by the Housing Department. He reiterated that, as stated in the report, maintaining a record of applications to keep dogs is not required and would not be the practice going forward.
41. REPORT ON ACTIONS BEING TAKEN TO PREVENT SUB-LETTING OF LOCAL AUTHORITY DWELLINGS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“Based on reports that local authority housing is being sub-let in a neighbouring council area. Can Sligo County Council report on what actions are being taken to ensure that no local authority dwellings are sub-let or used as a permanent place of residence by any person other than the person to whom the dwelling was awarded and their immediate dependants.”
A report circulated advised that the sub-letting of a Council property is forbidden, quoting the relevant excerpt from a Tenancy Agreement and that this is explained clearly to new tenants at their pre-tenancy course.
In response to a query, Director of Services, Mr. Molloy advised that, when the Housing department is alerted to such activities, the matter is followed up and appropriate action taken.
42. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Votes of sympathy were recorded.
Councillor Maguire offered her deepest sympathy to the family of the late Seamus McGoldrick, his wife Mary, sons Shane and Seamus, daughter Sineád, granddaughter Leanne, extended family, and friends, on his recent passing. Councillor Maguire described Seamus, a lifelong member of Fine Gael, as a family and community man, a keen political observer and a great believer in the democratic process. The Members wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy to Seamus’ family also.
Councillor Baker extended his sympathies to the family of the late Mr. Sean O’Dwyer who recently passed away, adding that Seán, a big Sligo Rovers fan, will be remembered as a dedicated community worker.
Councillor Gilroy wished to pay a special tribute to the late Mr. Michael Watters, ‘King of Inishmurray' who recently passed away. At Councillor Gilroy’s request, a minute’s silence then followed, in honour of Mr. Watters and those to whom votes of sympathy had been extended at the meeting.
43. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS
Proposed by Councillor's. R. O’Grady and M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor's. D. Gilroy and S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mark Brehony, Manager and the Summerhill A team who have reached the All-Ireland A final, a huge achievement. We wish them every success in the final, taking place on St. Patrick’s Day in Croke Park.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to all those involved in the delivery of the new Primary Care Centre, which opened in Grange today. We wish good luck and good health to all the staff and to all those who visit the new centre.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ms. Marie O’Byrne on her recent appointment as Director of the Glór Arts Centre and Theatre in Ennis and to thank her for her contribution to the Arts in Sligo during her twelve-year tenure as Director of the Hawks Well Theatre. Marie is passionate about promoting the arts and her extraordinary energy and dedication ensured that the Hawks Well Theatre is today recognised as one of the most successful performing arts venues in the country.”
44. CONFERENCES / TRAINING:
The Members noted the details as furnished to them in advance of the meeting.
45. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:
The Members noted the items under this heading.
46. CORRESPONDENCE:
The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.
47. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
No matter was raised under this heading.
48. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
No matter was raised under this heading.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the meeting concluded at 1.55 p.m.
Meeting Date 06/03/2023