Minutes 2024
Minutes of March Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00 am on Monday 4th March 2024 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Baker(R)
- Councillor Bree
- Councillor Casserly
- Councillor Clarke
- Councillor Connolly
- Councillor Fox
- Councillor Gibbons
- Councillor Gilroy
- Councillor Healy
- Councillor MacSharry
- 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
- Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
- Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
- E. Concannon, A/Director of Services
- John Moran, A/Director of Services
- Marian O’Callaghan
- Brian Flynn, Town Regeneration Office
- Donal Tinney, County Librarian
- Conor McCann, Senior Executive Engineer
- Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
- Jane Golden, Staff Officer
- Francis Conboy, IS Technical Support Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Gerard Mullaney, presided.
OTHER:
A delegation from the IFA and a group of students from ATU Sligo were present in the Council Chamber.
APOLOGIES:
There were no apologies.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:
The Cathaoirleach welcomed the delegation from the IFA and Ms. S. Barrins and the students from ATU Sligo to the meeting. Reports on Notices of Motions were circulated to members prior to the meeting.
It was then:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
To suspend Standing Orders to discuss the following:
Sligo County Council resolves to write to the President of the EU Commission, The Taoiseach and the Minister of Agricuture advising them that the Council has passed the following resolution:
“ Sligo County Council supports the IFA ‘enough is enough’ campaign. The Council recognises the significant contribution that farming, and the Agri-sector makes to the Irish and local economy. The Council acknowledges the income challenge on Irish farmers arising from the significant increases in the cost of doing business, regulatory costs and cuts in Basic Income supports for farmers.
The Council calls on Government to introduce no further egulations on farmers or any measures that may increase costs on farms without full negotiaition and agreement with the Irish Farmers Association (IFA). The Council calls on the European Union and the Irish Government to provide additional stand-alone funding, seperate to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), to support farmers to undertake climate and biodiversity measures”.
With the agreement of the meeting, the Cathaoirleach suspended Standing Orders and stated that 30 minutes would be spent on the discussion. It was also agreed that Item No. 35 would be taken at this point.
A warm welcome was extended to the IFA members present in the public gallery. Councillor T. Walsh stated that the level of red tape and bureaucacy was placing an unnecessary burden on farmers. Councillor M. Connolly stated that he undersood the level of frustration of farmers with regard to the regulations.
Councillor T. Healy’s Item No. 35 was then taken
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to expresses solidarity with the farmers protesting across the country and across Europe and to call on the government to do more to protect the family farm and their livelihood.”
Councillor T. Healy welcomed the IFA representatives to the meeting and highlighted the importance of farmers in the community. He stated that the rise in the cost of living had affected farmers as their incomes hadn’t changed and that farmers need to see a future in farming. Councillor A. Gibbons stated that no one wanted to see a family farm turned into an industry. He informed members that Chris McManus MEP had spoken on behalf of farmers in the EU.
Councillor J. Queenan stated that the urban/Dublin mindset was different to that of rural areas and that there were obstacles to the expansion of farms. Councillor T. Fox reported that he was aware of what rural families have to endure, it was not acceptable and he called on central government to support farmers more. Councillor S. Maguire stated that farmers are the answer to our biodiversity issues and are the life blood of the community and country. Councillor D. Mulvey welcomed the sentiments of his colleagues and said that farmers did not want to be regulated out of existence. Councillor M. Baker joined the meeting remotely and apologised for not being present in the Council Chamber as he was unavoidably detained. He stated that it was not all about income, it was about the love of the land also.
Councillor M. Clarke reiterated his long standing support for the farming community. Farmers are the people who will do the most for climate change but there is little incentive for young people and some see no future for their families on Irish farms. Councillor P. Taylor stated that farmers put a lot back into the local economy and that we have to stand together to do something about it, make representations.
Counicllor D. Gilroy stated that farmers were the custodians of the environment and that all farmers need to stand together, delays in the planning process and attacks on sheep/livestock were issues. Councillor M. Casserly said the deal with the EU Comission was concerning and being pushed through. Agricultural consultants were threatening strike action as a result of the level of bureaucacy involved.
The Cathaoirleach requested an extension of standing orders by ten minutes, this was then
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“ To further suspend Standing Orders by an additional ten minutes”
Councillor R. O.Grady stated that farmers are being asked to do more for less and that is was important that farmers could be present in the Council Chamber today as part of a democracy. Councillor T. MacSharry stated that regulations have no bearing on reality and that Councillors in Leitrim County Council shared the outrage. It was important that tradition could carry on.
Councillor D. Bree highlighted that the EU Commission was losing touch with the agriculture sector, new regulations were a burdern and consultation is required. Councillor G. O’Boyle stated that the cost of living was an important factor.
The Cathaoirleach reiterated that the IFA delegation had the support of everyone in the Council Chamber. The EU are bringing in policies that will reduce farming and policy is misguided. The campaign is important for rural Ireland and this way of life is disappearing. These issues will be raised with Deputy Frank Feighan and the Office of the Cathaoirleach with Ministers.
1. TO CONFIRM MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 12TH FEBRUARY 2024:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 12th February 2024”.
2. TO NOTE MINUTES OF MEETING OF TWINNING COMMITTEE HELD ON 4TH DECEMBER 2023:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To note minutes of Meeting of Twinning Committee held on 4th December 2023”
3. FUNDING OF THE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ARTS ASSESSMENT PANEL 2024:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly
AND AGREED
“To approve the recommended funding of the contributions to the arts assessment panel 2024”
Ms. D. Clarke highlighted that the small grants scheme had been reviewed in 2023 with grants for the arts and performance events being dealt with under the Contribution to Arts Scheme. Funding has been allocated through the revised scheme as agreed. All grant applications are online and dates may change from year to year. Information is available on the website and staff continue to take all calls and correspondence. Grants are allocated in a fair manner. Sligo County Council is obliged to provide assistance and support for venues re: The Arts Council. It was highlighted that an Events Officer and Tourism Officer have recently been employed.
Councillor T. Walsh thanked Ms. Clarke for her response and stated that events were at breaking point due to costs involved not being resourced. Five events had been cut out even though they met the criteria. Capacity needs to be increased. Councillor S. Maguire stated that it was vital that the Arts were properly resourced. This new process was problematic for smaller organisations who may not be looking at the website. Councillor T. Walsh stated his disappointment at the allocation of funding as he felt that it let the sector down and he abstained from the motion. Councillor S. Maguire also abstained from the motion stating that the funding had changed this year and had created difficulties within communities, particularly for small organisations.
Councillor M. Casserly and Councillor P. Taylor highlighted the need for more funding for events and that many events were being delivered by volunteers. This issue needs to be discussed as funding from elsewhere will have to be taken out for it to be put towards events.
Mr. M. Lydon stated that there would be a new Council, with a new Corporate Plan linked to the financial plan for the next five years. This is where decisions are to be made, rates increases may be necessary. Members agreed to review same in due course.
4. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001, DISPOSAL OF THE FREEHOLD INTEREST IN PROPERTY AT 1146 CLOONEEN, GURTEEN, COUNTY SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of the freehold interest in property at 1146 Clooneen, Gurteen, County Sligo to Michael and Margaret O’Connell”
5. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001, THE LEASE OF PROPERTY AT NO. 1A CRANMORE ROAD, SLIGO AND ADJOINING PLOT OF LAND TO CRANMORE COMMUNITY CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY LTD.
Proposed by Councillor R. O. Grady
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of property at No. 1A Cranmore Road, Sligo and adjoining plot of land to Cranmore Community Co-operative Society Ltd. by way of a three-year lease”
6. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001, THE PROPOSED DISPOSAL OF LANDS AT CARROWGOBBADAGH, COUNTY SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the proposed disposal of lands at Carrowgobbadagh, County Sligo”
7. PART 8 FOR THE PUBLIC REALM UPGRADES TO TUBBERCURRY TOWN CENTRE
Proposed by Councillor M. Connolly
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To consider the Chief Executive’s Report on the Part 8 for the Public Realm Upgrades to Tubbercurry Town Centre”
8. HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AT CARROWBUNNAUN TOWNLAND, STRANDHILL, CO. SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“ To note pursuant to the requirements of S179A (2) of the Planning and Development and Foreshore (Amendment) Act 2022, 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 Carrowbunnaun Townland, Strandhill, Co. Sligo”
9. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2024:
The monthly Management Report was noted.
10. UPDATE ON THE DEFECTIVE BLOCK SCHEME FROM THE MINISTER FOR HOUSING:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to seek an update on the defective block scheme from the Minister for Housing.”
Mr. J. Molloy informed members that he had met with the Department and that a draft report had been completed, to include Sligo. Once approved, procedures will be set up.
11. UTILISE LANDS WHERE PLANNING PERMISSION HAS BEEN GRANTED BUT NO WORKS HAVE TAKEN PLACE TO ERECT MODULAR OR PREFABRICATED HOUSING FOR THE NEEDS OF EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION
This motion was deferred with the agreement of the Cathaoirleach.
12. TII ROADS FUNDING
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to TII regarding funding that has been spent in the County to date on the following roads N59, N15, N17, N16, N4, all these are National roads and what investment is coming into our region? There is concern with the lack of funding spent on the N17, N59, N15, and has the budget for TII reduced over the last number of years in this region?”
13. ACTIVE TRAVEL DEFICIENCIES IN VILLAGES THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to TII to address active Travel deficiencies in villages throughout the County within the 60kph speed limit zones on all the national routes in the county in the interest of health and safety.”
14. SURVEY OF DANGEROUS TREES
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“In light of the recent storms, has Sligo County Council ever carried out a survey of dangerous trees in the county as we saw recently that many roads were blocked, and we were lucky there were no fatalities. Due to the recent storms, there are many large old dying trees that hang out over our local and regional roads that must be taken down safely and unfortunately this doesn't happen until there is a storm. Has correspondence ever been received back from government on possible assistance for landowners to cut back and remove these dangerous trees as the cost can sometimes be very high for this work to be carried out.”
Members agreed that an audit is required on dangerous trees, it is the government’s responsibility to remove them.
15. WOMEN'S REFUGE IN SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“Following my motion which was passed unanimously last year regarding this council supporting the establishment of a women's refuge in Sligo to address the increase in rates of domestic violence and provide this much needed facility in our county. This motion seeks an update be provided regarding the progress of the establishment of a women’s refuge for Sligo and a date set for the stakeholder meeting to ensure all necessary parties are fully engaged in this important facility.”
Councillor S. Maguire stated that she was delighted that Sligo County Council were working with CUAN and that it was important to support this. It was requested that a stakeholders forum be set up as previously agreed. The work of DVAS and An Garda Siochana’s Special Unit for Domestic Violence was commended. Members were in agreement.
16. DOG FOULING REGULATIONS
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council issue a report to members on how the Dog Fouling Regulations are enforced in County Sligo and what resources are available to deal with dog fouling in each of the Municipal Districts with regard to roadside, footpaths, walkways and cycle lanes”
Councillor D. Gilroy queried if the bye laws needed to be amended to deal with this issue, perhaps the rules needed to be changed at national level.
Councillor T. MacSharry stated that the fines were very low and that it was difficult to prosecute people in court. Enforcement is important. It is important to keep the issue highlighted, however, local authorities are limited in what they can do. Education and ongoing campaigns were important in schools and the wider community. Some stencilling needs to be refreshed and people need to be reminded that this is a health hazard. The work of the Litter Wardens was acknowledged. Councillor D. Gilroy thanked members for their support of the motion.
17. FINANCIAL SUPPORTS TO FAMILIES OF SECONDARY SCHOOL CHILDREN WHO HAVE TURNED 18 AND STILL IN FULL TIME EDUCATION.
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Co Co write to the Minister for Social Protection to make some financial supports available to families of secondary school children who have turned 18 and still in full time education. The supports that were announced in the budget do not come into effect until September 2024.”
Councillor M. Casserly welcomed the funding and members supported the motion.
18. SUPPORTS FROM THE DEPARTMENTS OF JUSTICE AND TRANSPORT TO MAKE MORE ROAD SAFETY WORKSHOPS AND CAMPAIGNS AVAILABLE TO EVERY SECOND LEVEL SCHOOL IN THE COUNTRY
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To request further supports from the Departments of Justice and Transport to make more road safety workshops and campaigns available to every second level school in the country by way of providing more resources to An Garda Síochána Roads Policing Units.”
Councillor M. Casserly stated that this was a huge issue, with 38 people losing their lives since January 2024. More resources are required and safety workshops are needed in school, particularly for TY students and young male drivers.
Councillor D. Gilroy highlighted the need for Lifelong education. Councillor T. MacSharry stated that more Go Safe vans are required along with An Garda Siochana being properly resourced. Pro Social Courses for young people are beginning to yield results.
With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Item No 19 was to be returned to later on in the meeting.
With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach Items 20 and 22 were taken together.
20. UPDATE RE PROPOSED EASTERN GARAVOGUE BRIDGE AND APPROACH ROADS SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with an up-to-date report in relation to the construction of the proposed Eastern Garavogue Bridge and approach roads scheme.”
22. EASTERN GARAVOGUE BRIDGE PROJECT:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To seek a progress report following on from the recent funding announcement to progress the Eastern Garavogue Bridge Project.“
Councillors Fox and Casserly welcomed the report and that the project is progressing to design stage.
21. PUBLICATION OF THE AISRR
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To ask the Minister for Transport to publish the AISRR as a matter of urgency.”
Councillor M. Casserly stated that projects throughout the country are not being funded quickly enough. The Sligo to Dublin train takes too long at three hours and twenty minutes. Councillor M. Casserly read out a response she had received from Irish Rail and asked for the strategic review to be published so that funds could be allocated. Members were in agreement.
23. COST OF PUBLIC CHARGING STATIONS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES.
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To call on the Department of Transport to ask electricity companies to reduce the cost at public charging stations to incentivise people to make the switch to Electric Vehicles. Government funding is being made available to fit new public charging stations, but this should be conditional on the electricity companies being much more competitive and reducing the charging cost at public charging stations”
Councillor M. Casserly stated that charges are currently twice that of other EU countries and conditions should be attached to funding provided to private companies that provide charging stations. It was requested that this issue be kept on the agenda for the next few months. Members supported the motion.
24. CASH TRANSACTIONS
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor R. O’ Grady
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Finance asking him to inform all state agencies to maintain systems which accommodate cash transactions between them and citizens, to avoid isolation of elderly people and counteract any move to cease cash transactions”
Councillor T. MacSharry highlighted that elderly people like to deal in cash and that a move towards a cashless society is wrong. Online fraud is an issue, with elderly people being scammed. This needs to be addressed. Councillor R. O’Grady stated that people should have a choice and the elderly are to be protected. Members supported the motion and it was agreed to send out a letter to the NDLS regarding their policy of dealing only in bank cards.
25. COASTAL EROSION AND FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT IN COUNTY SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor R. O’ Grady
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council would supply members with any Coastal Erosion and Flood risk management reports for any areas covered in County Sligo"
Councillor T. MacSharry proposed that the Executive make a presentation to members regarding this issue. Councillor D. Bree seconded this proposal. The Executive to revert regarding when the presentation will be given. Ms. E. Concannon confirmed that the report was available on the website and that there had been no restrictions on interventions. Two locations had been picked based on a priority basis. Interventions are very costly. The OPW will prioritise locations.
As Councillor T. MacSharry had to temporarily step out from the meeting, the Cathaoirleach agreed to take Item No 27 next.
27. CUTS IN FUNDING FOR WOMEN POST MASTECTOMY:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“That SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL write to the Minister for Health expressing our dismay and disappointment at the cuts in funding for women post Mastectomy”
Councillor R. O’Grady highlighted that these cuts effect the progress and care for women post mastectomy when obstacles should not be put in their way. The decision by Minister Stephen Donnelly to reverse the decision to cut this funding was welcomed. It was agreed that a letter be sent to Minister Donnelly thanking him. Councillor M. Clarke seconded the sending of the letter.
Councillor R. O’ Grady welcomed the turning of a sod on the 12 bed single bed unit at the North West Hospice by Minister Donnelly recently.
Councillor T. Healy proposed the Council write to the CHO1 area highlighting the members annoyance at the initial decision. This was seconded by Councillor S. Maguire and agreed. Councillor R. O. Grady suggested writing to the management of acute services in CHO1. Members agreed that the decision to cut funding was hitting the vulnerable and acknowledged that the Minister had responded as soon as he had become aware of the decision.
26. WRAP 11 PROGRAMME
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council would supply members with a brief report on the WRAP 11 programme which commenced in 2021, and given the huge success of Irish actors and Irish film will this programme extend beyond 2024"
Councillor T. MacSharry informed members that this was a well-funded scheme with €200,000 available and welcomed that it had been extended past April 2024. The media were asked to promote it. The Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon Executives were congratulated on coming together for this initiative.
With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Item No 19 was taken.
19. UPDATE ON FORMER MARKIEVICZ HOUSE BUILDING ON BARRACK STREET, SLIGO, (LISTED BUILDING)
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor Fox
AND AGREED
“Given the huge shortage of HSE office space, in multiple Departments, across Sligo, Leitrim currently, that this council contact the HSE Estates Office, the Minister for Health and our four Teachta Dála in SLWC and ascertain why the former Markievicz House Building on Barrack Street, Sligo, (Listed Building) continues to sit there idle. And that we be provided with an update on the expected Capital Submission - €100,000 for refurbishment of the building.”
Councillor T. Walsh informed members that this building was under review with a new capital submission by the HSE. It was agreed to contact the HSE Director General and CHO Group to enquire as to progress on this capital submission.
28. BACKLOG OF APPRENTICES TRAINING:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That this local authority call’s on this government to take urgent action to clear the backlog of apprentices training”
29. UNRWA. UNITED NATIONS RELIEF WORKS AGENCY:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That this local authority call’s on this government to intensify efforts to save UNRWA. United Nations Relief Works Agency”
Councillor A. Gibbons stated that the situation has not changed over the years and thanked the government for their continued support of UNWRA.
With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, Items 30 and 32 were taken together.
30. CIS APPLICATIONS
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“To request a report on the number of CIS applications in the system at present and the amount of grant aid required to complete them. That this Council agrees to write to the Minister for Transport requesting additional funding to complete those applications in the system”
32. CIS AND LIS SCHEMES
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“Ask the Director of Services to outline how many CIS and LIS schemes are awaiting funding and has Sligo County Council been allocated monies in 2024 for these two schemes”
Councillor G. Mullaney stated that there are €5.2 million worth of CIS applications are currently held on file within the Council, yet an allocation of only €384,000 was received for 2024. The government needs to provide more funding.
Councillor J. Queenan highlighted that the LIS Scheme required €1.4 million with €300,000 to €400,000 allocated. He called on the government to review the schemes and fund them properly. Councillor M. Clarke queried if funds had been diverted and allocated to the Active Travel Programme. Members supported the motion and highlighted the following
- Some people lived on roads that fell into both public and private categories
- It can be confusing explaining how these funds are allocated
- More funding is required – the Management Team were requested to ask for additional funding
- It is difficult for people living in rural areas to see how much is being spent on roads in urban areas
- CIS and LIS Schemes, when completed will last for twenty years
- The work being delivered by Sligo County Council roads staff was complimented
31. CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That this Council ask the government to act now, in regulating children’s mental health services which would drive improvements and help tackle waiting lists”
Councillor A. Gibbons spoke about the lack of resources and various issues relating to children’s mental health services, and the need for the regulation of CAHMS. Councillor T. Healy stated that early intervention is required. Councillor T. Walsh said this was a knock on effect from the two year pandemic and that online services had not worked.
33. UPGRADE OF N59
With the agreement of the meeting, item No. 33 was withdrawn by Councillor J. Queenan.
34. HYDROTHERAPY POOL
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That this Local Authority be provided with a further update on the HSE’s response dated 27/04/23, to the Council’s previous motion calling on it to immediately address the lack of a hydrotherapy pool in Sligo and Leitrim for service users who urgently need this vital resource, and that this motion be copied to the Taoiseach, Tánaise, Chief Officer HSE and Head of Disability Services”
Councillor T. Walsh stated that he was seeking an update from the owner of Cregg House regarding the use of the hydrotherapy pool and whether the HSE could engage with Cregg House regarding this matter. Councillor D. Bree informed members that the HSE had given an update at a Disability Forum meeting advising that they were interested in using the pool. Councillor R. O’Grady informed members that Friends of Sligo had fundraised for this pool and that it was not to be given away or sold. Councillor D. Gilroy informed members that Woodbrook Care will open the pool for 2 days per week during 2024. Councillor T. Fox supported the motion.
Ms. Sinead Branley read out an updated amendment to the motion as per Councillor T. Healy which was agreed by members. It was also agreed to send this correspondence to Ann Rabbitt, HSE.
The amended motion read as follows:
“That this Local Authority be provided with a further update on the HSE’s response dated 24/04/23 to the Council’s previous motion calling on it to immediately address the lack of a hydrotherapy pool in Sligo and Leitrim for service users who urgently need this vital resource. We are calling for the full reinstatement of a pre-existing service which could benefit the entire region”.
36. NATIONAL BROADBAND PLAN
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to seek an update from National Broadband Ireland (NBI) on the rollout of the National Broadband Plan in County Sligo. If we are to achieve the target of 96% of all houses and premises having access to fibre optic broadband connections by 2026, the rollout needs to be greatly accelerated”.
37. GAZA/ISRAEL CONFLICT
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’ Boyle
AND AGREED
“Aware: That over 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since Israel began its military operation four month ago; That 85 per cent of the population has been displaced, mostly to areas that have faced repeated bombardment from Israel by land, air and sea; That South Africa has initiated proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide ("the Genocide Convention"); this Council calls on the Government to demand that the European Broadcasting Union bans Israel from the Eurovision song contest, and further we call for a boycott of Eurovision should Israel be permitted to participate in the contest.”
38. SECOND BEACH AT ROSSES POINT:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with a progress report regarding the provision of a Boardwalk to allow 24 hour safe access to the second beach at Rosses Point.”
39. GLOBAL INVESTMENT FUNDS
Proposed by Councillor G. O’ Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council writes to the housing minister to stop global investment funds buying up entire estates and apartment blocks, depriving families and people of homes, and driving up prices”
40. U.S. MILITARY AND MILITARY CONTRACTED AIRCRAFT STOPOVERS AT SHANNON AIRPORT.
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Stop granting permission for U.S. military and military contracted aircraft, including troop carriers, to land in Shannon Airport. As a supposedly neutral country, we are actively supporting war by allowing these warplanes to land in Ireland while carrying troops, weapons, and potentially prisoners”
41. NATIONAL INDEPENDENT MATERNITY COMMISSION INQUIRY:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister of Health asking for a national independent maternity commission inquiry”
42. HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENT (HAP) 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 2023 (B) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) Scheme in 2023 (C) the sum of money paid to private landlords under the Long-Term Social Housing Leasing Scheme in 2023.”
Councillor D. Bree informed members that €8.4 million had been paid to landlords in County Sligo in 2023 through the HAP, RAS and long-term social housing leasing scheme. A public housing programme is needed to deal with the housing crisis.
43. DRAFT COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2024 – 2030
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“Draft County Development Plan 2024 – 2030
It has been brought to my attention that many landowners were unaware of changes proposed to the zoning of their residential lands in the Towns and Villages of County Sligo and the Sligo and Environs area, to the extent that many failed to make submissions to the review of the County Development Plan.
I wish to propose that the Planning Section of Sligo County Council prepare a report and map to be circulated to the members of the Council in advance of the next Council meeting to:
- Show clearly and outline any instances where the land use zoning density for residential areas in the Draft County Development Plan is proposed to be changed from the previous Development Plan for any of the Towns and Village Plans in the county and the Sligo and Environs area.
- The report and map should identify any situations where the proposed zoning is different to the current zoning, in terms of any zoning change where residential density has been reduced or increased under the draft plan - for example where the present R3 land use zoning is proposed to be changed to the new eRES proposed zoning.
- The description of the eRES residential land use zoning term in the draft Plan, as quoted in Volume 2, page 14 of the draft CDP Plan, is vague and unclear and needs to be clarified further in the report being requested for the Council members - see the description of eRES below.
- The eRES residential zoning term is stated in the Draft Plan as an “existing and infill residential use Objective” - what does the term “small-scale infill development” mean in the eRES objective?
- The report should also clarify if the National Guidelines on densities and layout apply to the draft Sligo CDP Plan and how the “Sustainable Residential Development and Compact Settlements Guidelines for Planning Authorities” published on 15 January 2024 by the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage will apply to the draft Plan
CDP Volume 2 page 14
eRES – existing and infill residential use Objective:
Protect and enhance the residential amenity of established residential areas and their communal or public open space and allow for small-scale infill development which is appropriate to the character and pattern of development in the immediate area.
The introduction of other compatible or ancillary uses, redevelopment and regeneration may also be considered in these areas, as long as the dominant use remains residential”
Councillor M. Clarke thanked Ms. D. Clarke for her update and clarification on the matter. A second CE Report containing reports and maps will be circulated to members around 22nd March, with workshops for members to follow around the second week in April. There will be a special council meeting in April to consider the plan.
44. ILLEGAL DUMPING
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council issue a report to members on what additional activity, if any, will take place in 2024 to deal with the increased prevalence of Illegal dumping throughout our county and how the Litter Wardens are being assisted to enforce the law with regard to illegal dumping”
Councillor D. Gilroy queried if additional resources were required and if this needs to be looked into for the next Council. Councillor R. O’ Grady supported the motion. Councillor D. Mulvey welcomed new legislation re: CCTV and its use to combat illegal dumping/littering. There are facilities in Sligo and Tubbercurry which are available for use by members of the public. Members agreed that the litter wardens were doing good work in tackling the issue. Mr. M. Lydon stated that the council were not the problem and that the problem lies with individuals in society. The public purse can educate and provide resources.
45. THRIVE TOWN CENTRE FIRST HERITAGE SCHEME
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council apply to have Sligo Gaol included in the THRIVE Town Centre First Heritage Scheme to renovate derelict buildings in Urban Centres”
46. BOYCOTT OF THE ISRAELI AND RUSSIAN EMBASSIES IN DUBLIN
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions to call on all Unions to boycott the Israeli and Russian Embassies in Dublin and all service providers to these embassies. This would include the delivery of fuel, food and other services so that the ambassadors of these countries have to logistically bring all their needs through diplomatic channels from their home countries. This will hopefully give them a very limited taste of what their governments are doing to the people of Palestine and Ukraine”
Councillor D. Gilroy asked that Trade Unions take part in these actions. Councillor D. Bree gave an overview of Trade Union procedures. Councillor D. Bree requested that the motion be amended to call on the government for the expulsion of the Israeli and Russian Ambassadors. This was seconded by Councillor G. O’ Boyle. Councillor D. Gilroy accepted the sentiment but could not agree with the expulsion of the ambassadors. Councillor M. Clarke stated that he could not support the amended motion as it was not taking a neutral stance.
The amended motion was read to the meeting:
“That Sligo County Council write to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions to call on all Unions to boycott the Israeli and Russian Embassies in Dublin and all service providers to these embassies. This would include the delivery of fuel, food and other services so that the ambassadors of these countries have to logistically bring all their needs through diplomatic channels from their home countries and further we call on the Irish Government to expel the Israeli Ambassador and the Russian Ambassador. This will hopefully give them a very limited taste of what their governments are doing to the people of Palestine and Ukraine”.
A roll was called on the amendment with the result as follows:
For – 2 (Bree, O’Boyle)
Against – 7 (Clarke, Fox, Gilroy, Mullaney, Mulvey, Taylor, Walsh)
Absent – 9 (Baker, Casserly, Connolly, Gibbons, Healy, MacSharry, Maguire, O’Grady, Queenan)
The Cathaoirleach declared the amendment to the motion lost.
47. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Votes of Sympathy were recorded.
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“A vote of sympathy be extended to the family of the late Mr. Joe Shannon RIP”
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“A vote of sympathy be extended to the family of the late Mrs Betty Hever RIP, mother of Sligo County Council staff members Pauline Lavelle and Mairead Clerkin”
All members wished to be associated with these votes of sympathy.
48. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Coolea Junior Girls on reaching the FAI Schools National Cup Final
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Damien Kelly, Sligo County Council on the Ireland Masters 50’s who won the Charlie Gallagher Cup.
Proposed by Councillor D. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Gurteen Ladies GAA Team on reaching the County Finals.
49. CONFERENCES / TRAINING:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To approve the Conferences/Training events list as circulated.”
50. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:
It was agreed to note the items under this heading.
51. CORRESPONDENCE:
The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.
52. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
No matter were raised under this heading.
53. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
Councillor G. O’ Boyle requested a response from Minister Heather Humphreys be followed up regarding the Mother and Baby Homes.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 2.40 p.m.
Meeting Date 04/03/2024