Minutes 2023
Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00am on Monday 4th December 2023 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
Baker(R), Bree, Casserly, Clarke, Connolly, Fox, Gibbons, Gilroy, Healy, MacSharry, Maguire(R), Mullaney, Mulvey, O’Boyle O’Grady, Queenan, Taylor and Walsh.
(R) = participated in the meeting remotely
(C) = participated via County Hall Video Link
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr. Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
- Ms. Emer Concannon, A/Director of Services
- Mr. Seán Martin, A/Director of Services
- Ms. Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
- Mr. John Moran, A/Director of Services
- Mr. Conor McCann, Senior Executive Engineer
- Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
- Ms. Mairead O’Hara, Executive Planner
- Ms. Ruth Hanniffy, Biodiversity Officer
- Ms. Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
- Ms. Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer
- Ms. Karen McMahon, IS Technical Support Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Gerard Mullaney, presided.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:
The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting, including a group of 3rd Year CSPE students from Sligo Grammar School, who were present to observe the meeting.
1. Minutes of Meeting of Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on 26th April 2023:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Meeting of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on 26th April 2023.”
2. Minutes of Meeting of SPC 1 Group (Housing & Corporate) held on 13th June 2023:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Meetings of SPC 1 Group (Housing & Corporate) held on 13th June 2023.”
3. Minutes of Meeting of SPC 3 Group (Planning, Community & Economic Development, Arts & Culture) held on (A) 30th March 2023, (B) 28th June, and (C) 13th September 2023:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Meetings SPC 3 Group (Planning, Community & Economic Development, Arts & Culture) held on (a) 30th March 2023, (b) 28th June, and (c) 13th September 2023.”
4. Minutes of Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District held on (a) 18th September and (b) 22nd September 2023:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To note the minutes of Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District held on (a) 18th September and (b) 22nd September 2023.”
5. Minutes of Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 18th September 2023:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 18th September 2023.”
6. Minutes of Meeting of SPC 4 group (Climate Change) held on 19th September 2023:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Meeting of SPC 4 Group (Climate Change) held on 19th September 2023.”
7. Minutes of Special Meeting of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on 2nd October 2023:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Special Meeting of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on 2nd October 2023.”
8. Minutes of Budget Meeting of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on 9th October 2023:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Budget Meeting of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on 9th October 2023.”
9. Minutes of Budget Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District held on 31st October 2023:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Budget Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District held on 31st October 2023.”
10. Minutes of Budget Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 1st November 2023:
Proposed by Councillor M. Connolly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Budget Meeting of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District held on 1st November 2023.”
11. Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 6th November 2023 at 10.00 am:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 6th November 2023 at 10.00am.”
12. Minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 6th November 2023 at 2.00 pm:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 6th November 2023 at 2.00pm.”
13. Set date for January 2024 Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To convene the January Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council on Monday 15th January 2024 at 10.00am.”
14. Appoint Member to the Sligo Drug & Alcohol Task Force Committee (REACT):
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To appoint Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady to the Sligo Drug & Alcohol Task Force Committtee (REACT) following the resignation of Councillor Marie Casserly.”
15. Consider correspondence from Uisce Éireann with regards to setting a meeting date for a Water Services workshop with Elected Members:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To consider correspondence from Uisce Éireann with regard to setting a meeting date for a Water Services workshop with Elected Members.”
Following a brief discussion, it was agreed to contact Uisce Éireann and suggest a date for the workshop of either 15th January 2024, following the January Ordinary meeting, or 12th February 2024, following the February Ordinary meeting.
16. Disposal of Lands at Bellaghy, Co. Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor M. Connolly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of lands at Bellaghy, Co Sligo to Lorna Normanly.”
17. Lease of Grange Courthouse, Grange, Co. Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of property and forecourt known as Grange Courthouse, Grange, Co Sligo to Grange & Armada Development Association.”
18. Cas Loan to CENA – 38 Rathbraughan Park, Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance in the form of the Capital Assistance Scheme Loan in the amount of €179,944 to CENA Culturally Appropriate Homes Company Limited by Guarantee in respect of No. 38 Rathbraughan Park, Sligo.”
19. Lease of former Garda Station, Cliffoney, Co. Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of the former Garda Station, Cliffoney, Co. Sligo to Cliffoney Men’s Shed.”
20. Lease of property at Finisklin Road, Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of property at Finisklin Road, Sligo to L.M.S. Fuels Limited.”
21. Consider material contravention to the Sligo County Development Plan 2017-2023 (PL.23/60226):
“Having considered the Chief Executive’s Report prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 34(6)(a)(iiia) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), in relation to the Proposed Material Contravention of the Sligo County Development Plan 2017-2023 (as varied and extended up to 2024) in respect of PL 23/60226, it is hereby resolved:
To approve the Material Contravention of the Sligo County Development Plan 2017-2023 (as varied and extended up to 2024) in accordance with the recommendation of the Chief Executive’s Report to grant permission to the proposed development of 127 residential units at Second Sea Road, Sligo (PL.23/60226).”
Following a discussion on this item, a vote was called by the Cathaoirleach.
The result of the vote was as follows:
FOR: Councillors Bree, Casserly, Clarke, Connolly, Fox, Gibbons, Gilroy, Healy, Mullaney, Mulvey, O’Boyle, O’Grady, Queenan, Walsh (14)
AGAINST: 0
ABSENT: Councillors Baker, MacSharry, Maguire, Taylor (4)
The Cathaoirleach declared the vote carried and the Material Contravention approved.
22. To note the 2023/2024 Winter Maintenance Plan:
“To note the 2023/2024 Winter Maintenance Plan.”
This item was noted by the Members.
23. To note the preparation of County Sligo Biodiversity Action Plan 2024-2030/establishment of a Sligo Biodiversite Working Group:
“To note the preparation of County Sligo Biodiversity Action Plan 2024-2030 and establishment of a Sligo Biodiversity Working Group.”
This item was noted by the Members.
24. Housing Development at Geldof Drive and Benson Court, Sligo:
“To note, pursuant to the requirements of Section 2 of the 179A of the Planning and Development Act as amended, whereby:
The Chief Executive of the local authority shall inform the members of the local authority in relation to the development and shall provide documents, particulars or plans relevant to the development to the members,
Notice is hereby given that Sligo County Council proposes to carry out a housing development at Geldof Drive and Benson Court Cranmore, Sligo, as set out in attached report.”
This item was noted by the Members.
25. Group Housing Development – 3 no. dwellings at Glenview Park, Ash Lane, Sligo:
“To note, pursuant to the requirements of Section 2 of the 179A of the Planning and Development Act as amended, whereby:
The Chief Executive of the local authority shall inform the members of the local authority in relation to the development and shall provide documents, particulars or plans relevant to the development to the members,
Notice is hereby given that Sligo County Council proposes to carry out a Group Housing Development of 3 no. dwellings at Glenview Park, Ash Lane, Rathquarter TD, Sligo, as set out in the attached report.”
This item was noted by the Members.
26. Draft County Sligo Heritage Strategy 2023-2030:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“To consider the Draft County Sligo Heritage Strategy 2023-2030.”
27. Placenames proposals:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To consider and approve the following Placenames Proposals:
- That the proposed new local authority housing development at Grange, Co. Sligo (15 units) as per the map attached be named:
Irish - Cúirt Uí Airt
English – Harte’s Court
- That the proposed new local authority housing development at Rathellen Phase 1, Finisklin, Co. Sligo (30 units) as per the map attached be named:
Irish - An Droim
English – The Ridge.”
28. Monthly Management Report for November 2023:
“To note the Monthly Management Report for November 2023.”
The Members agreed to note this item.
29. Meeting with Minister O’Brien regarding the Housing Crisis in County Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo Co Co writes to Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien asking for a meeting regarding the housing crisis in County Sligo.”
30. Update from Minister for Housing on the Defective Block Scheme:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Clarke, was deferred until the January Ordinary meeting.
At this point in the meeting, with the consent of the Cathaoirleach, it was agreed to take Item 37 next.
37. Inclusion of Sligo in the Defective Blocks Scheme:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council and the Irish Government to take notice at a recent meeting held on Thursday 23/11/23 a group of concerned homeowners met to discuss the ongoing concerns with Pyrite defective blocks in their homes they were very angry at the pace in which Co Sligo is at regarding the inclusion in the defective blocks scheme. The Sligo Pyrite action group are calling on Sligo County Council, the Government and all local representatives to once and for all have Sligo included onto the scheme. The homeowners across this county feel that they are being discriminated against and also feel that their concerns are not being listened to or addressed.”
Members were advised in a report circulated in advance of the meeting that following the appointment of a consultant by the Council in November 2022, 16 expressions of interest were received from homeowners, via the Sligo Pyrite Action Group, nominating their properties to be considered for further investigation and 5 of these properties were subsequently shortlisted for a condition survey and core sampling. The final report was issued by Sligo County Council to the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) on 12th May 2023 for their consideration.
The Housing Agency, who are managing the defective blocks issue countrywide on behalf of DHLGH, appointed a consultant to review the report submitted by Sligo County Council in September 2023 and over the last number of weeks, the consultant has visited the 5 properties identified within Sligo County Councils report and carried out building condition assessment reports (a visual non-invasive review of the properties both internally and externally).
It is expected that a report and recommendation as to whether Sligo County Council should be accepted onto the defective blocks scheme will be issued by the Housing Agency to DHLGH over the coming weeks.
The Members welcomed members of the Sligo Pyrite Action Group to the meeting. It was agreed that Sligo should be included in the defective blocks scheme as a matter of priority and that the anguish and financial difficulties affected families are facing, particularly at this time of year, is completely unacceptable. The Members accepted that Sligo County Council has done all in its power to progress this matter, but deemed it unacceptable that Sligo’s inclusion in the scheme has been delayed for so long. The view of the Members was that there should be a national scheme to cover all affected properties throughout the country and all counties should be treated equally in relation to this crisis problem.
Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, stated that Director of Services, Mr Molloy, since he joined the Council, has pushed for the pyrite agenda with central government. The Executive of this Council is anxious to deal with and progress this issue but there is a process in place which the Council must follow, in order to subsequently ensure that Sligo is included in the scheme. It is important, Mr. Lydon concluded, to make the distinction here today between what the Council does have responsibility for and what it does not have responsibility for.
31. Call on Government to Stop Proposed Categorising of Disabled Persons for Welfare Payments in Ireland:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council calls on the government to stop proposed categorising of disabled persons for welfare payments in Ireland.”
32. Grounds for Refusal of Domicilliary Allowance:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Social Protection and ask why people are being refused domiciliary allowance even after multiple medical reports.”
33. Meeting with Minister in relation to N17 Project:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to Minister Ryan and request an urgent meeting between the Minister and a delegation from Sligo and Mayo local authorities and the various stakeholders in the region to highlight the urgency of releasing capital funding to expediate the upgrade of the N17. Can this motion be sent to all Government TDs in Sligo and Mayo.”
It was agreed that the Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney, will contact the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council and request a joint Meeting with Minister Ryan and the two local authorities.
34. Return of Catering Facilities on Sligo-Dublin Train Services:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to Irish Rail to request that the catering facilities be reintroduced on all Sligo Dublin train journeys as soon as possible. Can we also request that a 'Quiet Carriage' be introduced for passengers with sensory issues and those wishing to work in a quiet environment”.
35. Inclusion of Sligo in New Counselling in Primary Schools Programme:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Casserly, was deferred until the January Ordinary meeting.
36. Additional Intercity Services on the Sligo to Dublin Line:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Irish Rail to add additional intercity services on the Sligo to Dublin line and to put a lot more focus on the needs to developing a daily service from Longford to Sligo and improve rail service in the North-West.”
38. Provision of Rapid EV Charging Stations throughout Co. Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to TFI and Bus Éireann for a report on customer satisfaction. Given the amount of routes and services that have failed to be delivered in Sligo, what action is being taken to restore confidence in their service?”
39. Housing Vacancy and Dereliction Problem in the Housing Crisis:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To call on this local authority to ask the government to take seriously the issue of housing vacancy and dereliction at this time of this housing crisis.”
Members were informed in a report previously circulated that the County Council are developing a programme of work focused on addressing and resolving dereliction and vacant properties in the county using the various measures and schemes announced by government to tackle dereliction and bring back properties into residential use, which include the Croí Conaithe Scheme, , the Repair and Leasing Scheme (RLS) and the Ready to Build Scheme. Details were provided in the report on the current status of these schemes within the county.
40. Lack of Funding for Mental Health Services:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That this local authority calls on this government to take seriously the funding of mental health services.”
41. Applications for Adaptation Works to Local Authority Houses:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Bree, was deferred until the January Ordinary meeting.
42. Concern Around Events in Dublin//Collapse in Policing in the City on 23rd November:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Horrified by the brutal and senseless attack on children and their carer outside Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire, Parnell Square, Dublin, on Thursday 23rd of November, and appalled by the subsequent violence and looting fuelled by the far right in pursuit of a racist agenda; this Council expresses its concern with the unacceptable and unprecedented collapse in policing on the night, and further expresses its deep concern with the failure of government to challenge the activities of far right extremists who are orchestrators of hate, constantly ratcheting up people's fears and deliberately scapegoating minorities.”
43. Investment in League of Ireland and Soccer Clubs Across Country:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council call on the FAI‘s Board of Management to get its act together and to start investing in the League of Ireland and soccer clubs across the country.
In addition, that we encourage the Minister for Sport to appoint a member to the FAI Board of Management and to begin a phased investment in soccer.”
44. Review of Legal Aid System in Relation to Free Legal Aid:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To call on the Minister for Justice to undertake a complete review of the legal aid system in this country to ensure those who continuously commit offences do not obtain monies from the exchequer towards their legal costs;
To note that Criminal Legal Aid expenditure amounted to €81.2 million in 2022 for offences that included or could have included Murder/manslaughter, Rape, Theft, Fraud, Assault, Road traffic offences, Offences against the state.”
45. & 47. Update on Dangerous Junctions on Co. Sligo Roads / List of Work in Progress (WIP) Schemes on National Roads in Co. Sligo:
As items 45 and 47 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 D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to provide an update on all dangerous junctions on national primary and secondary routes in county Sligo.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council members are provided with a list of the 10 No. Work in Progress (WIP) Schemes on the National Roads Network within County Sligo and to include when they will be completed as we have been previously told that they must be closed out prior to looking at any new safety scheme proposals.”
In two reports circulated, Members were updated on the location, status and expected timelines for completion of the 10 Work in Progress (WIP) schemes to be prioritised before any new Safety Schemes proposals on national roads will be considered. Once these WIP schemes are successfully closed out, TII will provide a list of High Collision Locations (HCL’s) that will be prioritised for the next round of Safety Schemes. SRDO expect to receive this list in early 2024.
Funding for Safety Schemes is dependent on TII approval, and it is important to note that there is very limited funding available nationally for such schemes.
In response to queries from the Members, Acting Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, advised that the three WIP schemes in the report at N/A status indicates that these particular schemes will not be progressing. In relation to the two schemes on the list that are ‘on hold’, these two schemes are still on the list. The first one, the N59 at the Fiddler’s Elbow, is on hold due to legal issues around land acquisition. The second one, the pedestrian crossing in Grange village, is on hold as the plan is to progress these works as part of a wider Active Travel project being proposed for Grange village. In relation to the five remaining schemes on the list, works will be completed in 2024.
In relation to the issue of placing speed ramps on national roads, it was pointed out that Longford have ramps in place on a national road at Newtownforbes and that ramps should also be placed on national roads in this county where required as a matter of safety for road users and pedestrians.
Ms. Concannon advised that Safety Schemes are small interventions on national roads with minimal funding allocations available from TII. If there are land acquisition issues in relation to these schemes, TII will not fund the CPO process. In relation to speed ramps on the national road in Longford as discussed by the Members, Ms. Concannon stated that while she is not in a position to comment on individual speed ramps, it may be the case that speed limits determines placement of speed ramps but all such works are carried out in conjunction with national guidelines. This Council works in partnership with TII, who are the Council’s funders for national roads projects and design works are carried out on behalf of the TII by the Council.
It was agreed that more funding is required from TII for Safety Schemes on our roads, particularly in light of the increased traffic on all roads.
46. Provision of European Funding Officer for Every Local Authority:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the EU and The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to request that every Council in Ireland is given a European Funding Officer to provide the specialist skills required to ensure that every Council gets balanced regional funding from the EU.”
48. Report on Special Areas of Conservation in County Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council Members are provided with a list of the Special Areas of Conservation within County Sligo and to identify what benefits have been achieved by such designation and if changes need to be made to protect these areas and also to allow for the large numbers of visitors who may be causing damage to these special areas of conservation, and how we best manage the visitor impact.”
A report circulated to the Members provided details of SACs as contained in the designated nature conservation sites listed in Appendix D of the recently published Draft County Development Plan 2024-2030. Responsibility for designation, conservation and ensuring the ongoing management of these SACs rests with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
Since the introduction of the Habitats Directive in 1992, the Department have been actively designating sites and publishing conservation objectives for each site. However, the need to progress the preparation of site specific management plans for each of our SACs is well recognised. The purpose of these Management Plans is to identify the various pressures and threats a site is coming under and propose measures to minimise their impact. As most SACs contain land in private ownership, considerable resources will need to be applied to stakeholder engagement as part of the plan preparation process.
Sligo County Council is responsible for ensuring that, in exercising our consent functions or in adopting plans, an assessment (i.e. An Appropriate Assessment AA) is undertaken to determine the likely impacts on a designated site. A plan or project can only be approved by Sligo County Council where it can be demonstrated beyond reasonable scientific doubt that it will not negatively affect the integrity of a Special Area of Conservation. The AA process ensures that the protection of these designated areas informs the formulation of all our plans’ policies / objectives and any decision made in relation the implementation of these plans.
49. Insurance Scheme for Local Community Groups:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Government to set up an insurance scheme for local community groups. This would be a vital service to keep playgrounds and community services in place.”
It was further agreed that this motion would be shared with all local authorities in support of the motion.
50. Sligo County Council Proposals to Increase Shipping in Sligo Port:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with a report outlining the Councils proposals, if any, to increase shipping in the port of Sligo.”
51. Calls to Shop Local at Christmas:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“In light of the many businesses that are struggling to keep the doors open, I call on this local authority to urge the communities of Co. Sligo to shop local this Christmas and give our local businesses a fighting chance to carry on trading into the future.”
52. Provision of Car Parking Spaces North and South of Sligo Town and Shuttle Bus to Town Centre:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox
AND AGREED
“To call on the Director Services for Infrastructure to investigate the possibility of providing car parking spaces north and south of Sligo Town with a shuttle bus to the centre.”
In a report circulated in advance of the meeting, Members were informed that the Draft Sligo Local Transport Plan (LTP) proposes new Park & Ride locations on main radial routes into Sligo town, which includes access from both north and south of the Town. The chosen locations are to be far enough outside the Town for parking spaces to be readily available, and along existing public transport connections. The Council shall implement the proposed Park & Ride options throughout the lifetime of the LTP, subject to statutory procedures and available funding.
53. Update on Provision of New Driving Test Examiners for Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council should write to the Minister Eamonn Ryan and Junior Minister Jack Chambers seeking an update on new driving test examiners for Sligo due to recent figures showing that 716 people are currently on the waiting list to sit their driving test. Some young people are having to wait months for a driving test.”
54. Update on Provision of Armed Support Unit Base for County Sligo:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council call on the Garda Commissioner to provide an update on the provision of an Armed Support Unit base for County Sligo.
That this motion be relayed to the Minister for Justice, the Chief Superintendent in Sligo, Leitrim and the 4 Oireachtas members.”
Following a discussion on this motion, an amendment was proposed to the motion, and it was:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council call on the Garda Commissioner to provide an update on the provision of an Armed Support Unit base for County Sligo and to provide every Garda in the state with a taser.”
That this motion be relayed to the Minister for Justice, the Chief Superintendent in Sligo, Leitrim and the 4 Oireachtas members.”
Activities which support increased harbour and shipping activities are ongoing at Sligo port ranging from improvements in docking facilities, ensuring compliance with marine/port onshore standards including ongoing upgrade works to the navigation system lights and perches along the extents of the channel in recent years to aid safe shipping manoeuvres throughout the extent of the Harbour, from the port dock area to the outer extents at Raughly. The report detailed opportunities being pursued to increase shipping and other activities at the port.
55. Votes of Sympathy:
Votes of Sympathy were recorded.
Councillor O’Grady proposed a vote of sympathy to Dympna Mannion and the Mannion family on the untimely death of Aidan Mannion. Aidan was remembered as an intelligent and engaging gentleman who was a great ambassador for Sligo and epitomised what it is to be a proud Sligo man. Aidan was dedicated to his beloved Sligo Rovers for many decades and was involved in the setting up of a Heritage Group honouring those involved with Sligo Rovers, evidence of which can be seen in the Showgrounds. Sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to the Mannion family on their loss. The vote of sympathy was seconded by Councillor Gibbons, who remembered Aidan as a great character and a fountain of knowledge on his beloved Sligo, who extended the hand of friendship to many, including visiting Ambassadors, through the Sligo Rovers platform, showcasing Sligo’s jewel in the crown to many visitors with pride. The Members also wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy to the Mannion family.
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney wished to remember our late colleague, Majella Sweeney Noone who recently passed away. Majella was part of the Environment section from 2006, moved to Water Services in 2015 and returned to the Environment section in 2018. Majella will be remembered as a very friendly, dedicated and helpful person and colleague, who will be missed by all her work colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing her. The Cathaoirleach expressed his sympathies, and the sympathies of this Meeting, to Majella’s family, her friends and work colleagues who are deeply saddened at her untimely passing. The Members also wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy to the Majella’s family, friends and colleagues.
Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, on behalf of the staff of Sligo County Council, stated that while Majella worked in the Environment section, her loss is felt throughout the entire Council. It is always difficult to lose a colleague and Majella’s loss is profoundly felt by her family, who spoke so bravely and eloquently about her life, at her funeral. The thoughts and prayers of Majella’s Sligo County Council family are with Patrick, Majella’s son Thady and the extended Sweeney and Noone families at this difficult time.
56. Votes of Congratulations:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Owenmore Gaels on reaching the Junior Finals. They conceded the finals by four points but the spirit with which they played with was second to none. It is a very special honour to represent your local Club at County level.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councilor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Drumcliff Community Games Choir who won the National U-13 Community Games Choir competition, held in Carlow, for the second year in a row, and who sang at the recent Christmas Lights switch on in Carney.”
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Eastern Harps on winning the U20 Championships at the weekend.”
57. Conferences / Training:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To approve the Conferences/Training events list as circulated.”
58. Summary of Proceedings of Conferences:
It was agreed to note the items under this heading.
59. Correspondence:
The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.
60. Matters Arising from Minutes:
No matter was raised under this heading.
61. Any Other Business:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney, and the Members and Executive, welcomed Mr. Tom Kilfeather to the meeting. The Cathaoirleach invited Mr. Kilfeather to sit at the top table. The Cathaoirleach and Members paid tribute to Mr. Kilfeather on his upcoming retirement from Sligo County Council in December. Mr. Kilfeather will, the Cathaoirleach stated, long be remembered as an extraordinary public servant, and a gentleman, who was always courteous, professional, approachable and fair in all of his dealings with the Members, staff and the general public alike. He always showed a high regard for the Members during his years of service with the Council, was always very supportive and helpful to them, which was very much appreciated by the Members. Mr. Kilfeather has played a vital role in securing funding for and delivering on various projects in Co Sligo over the years including the Western Distributor Road. This Council, and the people of the county are indebted to him for all his hard work with staff, Members and local communities throughout the county. He has always represented this county with enormous pride to the best of his ability and has made a significant contribution to the development of County Sligo. The Members wished Mr. Kilfeather well on his retirement and wished him many years of health and happiness to enjoy with his family.
The Cathaoirleach and Members thanked Councillor Gilroy, Mr. Kilfeather’s personal friend, for arranging and facilitating this tribute to Mr. Kilfeather today.
Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, welcomed Mr. Kilfeather back to the Chamber and thanked him for his many years of loyal and distinguished service to this Council. Mr. Lydon described Mr. Kilfeather as loyal, respectful, compassionate and a man who has always delivered for his beloved Co Sligo. Mr. Lydon wished Mr. Kilfeather a long and happy retirement with his family.
Mr. Kilfeather thanked Councillor Gilroy for arranging this opportunity to speak with the Members today and thanked the Members sincerely for all the kind words spoken about him, which are greatly appreciated. Mr. Kilfeather stated that he has always strived to be fair in all his dealings with staff, Members and members of the public, and to help out in any situation he could to the best of his ability. Mr. Kilfeather expressed a sincere and heartfelt thanks to all in this Council, adding that his experiences with the Council have made him a better individual.
Mr. Kilfeather remembered some councillors who are no longer with us, including Councillors Padraig Branley, Boxer Conlon, Leo Conlon, Gerry Murray, his neighbour Patsy Barry and his good friend Margaret Gormley, who will always be remembered and from whom he has learned so much.
There have been some hard days in the Council, Mr. Kilfeather continued, and one of the saddest days during his time with the Council was in August 2015 when we lost a colleague on the N4 road, and that same day, we also lost Councillor Seamie O’Boyle, father of sitting Councillor, Gino O’Boyle. Mr. Kilfeather also remembered our colleague, Majella Sweeney Noone who sadly passed away in recent weeks at a young age.
Mr. Kilfeather once again thanked the Members for their kind words to him today and wished them all well for the future, both those contesting the Local Elections on 7th June 2024, and those who will be retiring from their role as Members of Sligo County Council, and he wished everyone a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney, wished all the staff and Members a very happy and restful Christmas and best wishes for 2024.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 2.00 p.m.
Meeting Date 04/12/2023