Minutes 2024
Minutes of October Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00 am on Monday 7th October, 2024 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Bree,
- Councillor Brennan,
- Councillor Casserly,
- Councillor Clarke,
- Councillor Cosgrove,
- Councillor Gallagher,
- Councillor Gibbons,
- Councillor Gilroy,
- Councillor Healy,
- Councillor MacSharry, T.,
- Councillor McSharry, E.,
- Councillor Mullaney,
- Councillor Mulvey,
- Councillor Nealon,
- Councillor O’Boyle,
- Councillor Queenan,
- Councillor Taylor and
- Councillor Walsh.
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr. Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
- Mr. Jim Molloy, Director of Services
- Ms. Marie Whelan, Director of Finance
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
- Ms. Emer Concannon, Acting Director of Services
- Mr. John Moran, Acting Director of Services
- Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
- Ms. Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
- Mr. Francis Conboy, IS Technical Support Officer
- Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Declan Bree, presided.
1. MINUTES OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP MEETINGS HELD ON A) 8TH JULY 2024 AND B) 6TH AUGUST 2024
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To note Minutes of Corporate Policy Group Meetings held on a) 8th July 2024 and b) 6th August 2024”
2. MINUTES OF THE SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 15TH JULY, 2024
The Members noted the Minutes of the Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District Meeting held on 15th July, 2024.
3. MINUTES OF THE BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 29TH JULY, 2024
The Members noted the Minutes of the Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District Meeting held on 29th July, 2024.
4. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 9TH SEPTEMBER, 2024
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 9th September, 2024.”
5. SECTION 183 – LEASE OF CONLON HOUSE, HUMBERT STREET, TUBBERCURRY TO FORÓIGE
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant, to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of Conlon House, Humbert Street, Tubbercurry to Foróige the National Youth Development Organisation CLG.”
6. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF LAND AT BELLADREHID TD., BALLYSADARE TO CARTY CONTRACTORS LIMITED:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of land at Belladrehid TD, Ballysadare, Co. Sligo to Carty Contractors Limited.”
7. SECTION 6 – PROVISION OF ASSISTANCE TO ICARE HOUSING COMPANY LIMITED IN RESPECT OF PROPERTY AT NO. 6 TEMPLE MANOR, BALLINACARROW:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance in the form of CALF Loan in the amount of €41,250 to iCARE Housing Company Limited by Guarantee in respect of property at No. 6 Temple Manor, Ballinacarrow, Co Sligo.”
8. PRESENTATION BY NBI
The Cathaoirleach welcomed Mr. Joe Lavin, Chief Commercial Officer and Ross Shone, Communications Executive from National Broadband Ireland.
Their Presentation, delivered by Mr. Lavin, was entitled “NBI – Delivering the National Broadband Plan on time and on budget.”
The Meeting was advised that the National Broadband Plan, , aims to ensure that every home, farm and business in Ireland, regardless of how remote or rural, has access to high-speed broadband.
The Members were provided with an overview of the National Broadband Plan which would
- provide 146,000 kilometres of fibre,
- over 2,000 skilled jobs across Ireland,
- stretch across 96% of Ireland’s landmass and
- 1 million people would have access to high-speed fibre broadband.
Details were also given relating to the progress of the Programme to the end of September 2024 and Mr. Lavin charted the Network Design and Build Process.
Under the heading of “Working together in support of the NBP”, Members were advised that Sligo County Council was seeing significant activity from NBI and their sub-contractors in terms of licence applications, leading to build and subsequent connections. The consistency of approach from national guidelines was critical to efficient processing of licences and timely connection of premises so citizens would have access to the high-speed broadband.
The role of Broadband Officers in each Local Authority was highlighted as playing a key role in support of project delivery. Both Mr. Lavin and the Elected Members acknowledged the role that Nigel Carter of Sligo County Council had played.
Other areas referred to in the Presentation were
- Broadband services offered by NBI
- County Sligo – Fibre to the home update
- County Sligo Overview
- Coney Island build works
- Ready for service – Deployment Areas - Sligo
- Network build in progress - Deployment Areas – Sligo
- Broadband connection points, Broadband Connection Points and Schools update
The Members were then advised how members of the public could find their broadband connection status and how to get connected.
In concluding his presentation, Mr. Lavin outlined the website details (www.nbi.ie) and contact details relevant to the Elected Members. Following the presentation, several Members raised concerns and questions relevant to the subject matter.
The Cathaoirleach and Members thanked Mr. Lavin for the presentation and appreciated the replies given to them on queries raised.
9. LOCAL PROPERTY TAX
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
“This Council, under the Local Property Tax (Local Adjustment Factor) Regulations 2022 (S.I. 358 of 2022), and having regard to the lifetime of this Council, hereby set out the adjustment factor of +15% for the period of 5 years as specified in this resolution, set the Local Adjustment Factor to the Local Property Tax of the period from 1st of November 2024 to 31st October 2029.”
A vote was called on this resolution which resulted as follows –
FOR: Councillors Brennan, Casserly, Clarke, Cosgrove, Gallagher, Gilroy, MacSharry, T., McSharry, E., Queenan and Taylor (10)
AGAINST: Councillors Bree, Gibbons, Healy, Mullaney, Mulvey, Nealon, O’Boyle and Walsh (8)
Summary: 10 votes in favour with 8 votes against, deemed the resolution carried.
A further resolution was brought before the Meeting –
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That this local authority calls on the Government to abolish the L.P.T. (Local Property Tax).”
10. DATES FOR BUDGET 2025 MEETING AND MUNICIPAL DISTRICT BUDGET MEETINGS:
The Members agreed to hold meeting as follows:
- Budget Meeting to take place on Friday, 22nd November, 2024 at 10.00 a.m.
- Sligo-Drumcliff M.D. Budget Meeting – Tuesday, 29th October
- The Chairs of the other Municipal Districts would discuss suitable dates and revert to the Director of Finance.
11. APPROVAL TO BORROWING BY WAY OF TEMPORARY OVERDRAFT (1ST JAN TO 31ST DEC. 2025):
Proposed by Cllr. J. Queenan
Seconded by Cllr. P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To seek approval to borrowing a sum not exceeding €15m by way of temporary overdraft for the 12 months from 1st January 2025 to 31st December 2025.”
12. APPOINTMENT TO “THE MODEL”:
The Members agreed to defer this item to the Agenda of the November Ordinary Meeting.
13. REPRESENTATIVES ON THE LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:
Proposed by Cllr. G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Cllr. A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To appoint Traveller Representatives to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.”
14. QUARTERLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR Q3 2024:
The Members noted the Report as circulated.
15. ESTABLISHMENT OF A VICTIMS OF CRIME COMPENSATION FUND:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, Cllr. MacSharry withdrew this motion from the agenda:
“That Sligo County Council call on the Government to establish a victims of crime compensation fund in the interests of Justice.”
16. SCHEME FOR OWNERS OF HOMES AFFECTED BY PYRITE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien, to seek immediate action on providing application forms for Sligo's homeowners who are affected by Pyrite, and to provide Council staff to ensure those applications are dealt with in a timely fashion.”
Cllr. Clarke and Cllr. Queenan referred to the difficulties being encountered by local owners of homes affected by Pyrite and the seriousness of the issue.
In response to a query regarding the current stage of the scheme and whether further Ministerial approval was required, Mr. Molloy informed the Meeting that the Council’s understanding of the current situation was that it had been passed by Central Government. It now had to be passed by the Dáil and it was awaiting their approval. Depending on when the General Election was called, this would dictate what Acts and Legislation would be passed. The hope had been that this Legislation would have been passed in June 2024 but that had not happened. Once passed, the Regulations would have to be examined to ensure that Sligo County Council was set up to deliver on the basis of what was passed and what Sligo County Council was approved for. As soon as the Legislation is passed, the Executive would be meeting with the Department of Housing to ensure that the Council were ready to go as quickly as possible.
Several Members supported this motion and outlined the further frustration and upset being caused to the families affected by the delay.
17. INCLUSION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSES IN HOUSING SCHEMES:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister of Housing to include affordable houses in any housing scheme where we are building social housing on local authorities land in the county as this is not the case at present.”
18. OVERHAUL OF CAMHS:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Health and Taoiseach asking why we are still waiting on an overhaul of CAMHS.”
19. BACKLOG OF APPLICATIONS IN SEAI WARMER HOME SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“I ask Sligo County Council to write to Eamonn Ryan T.D. Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications to deal with the backlog of applications in SEAI with the Warmer Home Scheme.”
20. REQUEST FOR SHUTTLE BUS FROM BROOMBRIDGE TRAIN STATION:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County write to Irish Rail and/or Dublin Bus to request the introduction of a direct and dedicated regular shuttle bus from the new Broombridge train stop, timetabled to the Sligo/Dublin/Sligo train service, to facilitate passengers travelling on the Sligo Dublin line by shortening journey times from the Northwest to Dublin Airport. Such a service would encourage greater use of the rail service.”
21. CLASSIFICATION OF ROADS ON THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council add a new classification of roads that ensures there is adequate funding for maintenance of roads that form part of the Wild Atlantic Way and that the roads to viewing points are maintained in a way that allows safe movement of Tourists, Farmers and local traffic throughout the year.”
The Members had been advised that Sligo County Council do not have the legislative authority to add a new classification of roads.
The allocation of maintenance funding to specific roads such as those highlighted in the notice of motion can be considered by the Elected Members as part of the annual schedule of road works.
In noting the contents of the report, Cllr. Gilroy said that rather than a classification, he was seeking some additional care to be given to these roads. This would facilitate farmers at busy periods, coinciding with busy Tourist traffic, to have space on these roads for both. This was not a motion about the surface of the roads. The success of the Wild Atlantic Way was to be welcomed and it was to find a solution for both parties. A further suggestion was put forward that Fáilte Ireland might be able to assist Sligo County Council with targeted funding to carry out small improvements that would make a big difference to the communities living along the routes, farmers and tourists visiting the area.
Cllr. Clarke confirmed that what was needed along the routes were safety measures. This would ensure that locals and tourists are safe. The huge success of the Wild Atlantic Way was again highlighted, and he noted that it continues to deliver for the northwest. An initial project suggested was a hedge cutting programme at the roadsides which would facilitate camper vans and assist those living along the routes.
As Councillor Casserly had another commitment, the Cathaoirleach sought the Members’ consent to deal with her motions at this time and this was agreed.
23. RELEASE OF ACCIDENT DATA BY ROAD SAFETY AUTHORITY (R.S.A.) TO TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE IRELAND (T.I.I.):
As this had been agreed at Municipal District level, Cllr. Casserly was now listing it at the Plenary Meeting. Due to GDPR issues, local authorities are not able to view data on any road collisions which had happened in Ireland in recent years. Prior to that, information originating from the Garda Pulse system had been provided and uploaded onto a detailed, interactive map. This could be accessed by the Roads Engineering Teams in the various local authorities. In November 2023, the L.G.M.A. requested that the RSA stop uploading details due to legal advice regarding GDPR. At that time, the old data was also removed from the mapping system. Roads Engineering staff now cannot access the pre-2019 data. This data had been used to analyse where and when concerning collisions were arising. This was now affecting important Road Safety projects as the exact, correct data was not available to them.
In supporting the resolution, Cllr. Gilroy said that at their Meeting it had been agreed that a request would be sent to the RSA to come before the Council to make a presentation. This recommendation would go to the Corporate Policy Group initially. The people on the ground, working on Road Safety, should have access to the data. It was statistics, not personal data that was being sought.
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That the RSA be requested to release accident data to the TII in order for local authorities to have access to this through a change of legislation.”
Cllr. Gibbons then asked if Item 30 could also be taken at this time. Senator Frances Black and Senator Eileen Flynn were in the Public Gallery. They were attending the meeting to hear the discussion on Item 30 and hoped to be there to see its approval by the Elected Members. Due to their time constraints, Cllr. Gibbons asked that the matter be dealt with at this time.
The Cathaoirleach consented that, following Cllr. Casserly’s motions had been dealt with, he would then take item 30 on the agenda.
28. CHRISTMAS MARKET IN QUEEN MAEVE SQUARE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“Given the great success of the recent Taste of Sligo Food Festival, can the Dept of Community and Enterprise actively work on a Christmas Market in Queen Maeve Square in December 2024.”
Ms. Clarke, Director of Services, reported to the Members that Sligo County Council would liaise with Sligo B.I.D. in relation to the scheduling of Christmas activities in Queen Maeve Square in December 2024.
Cllr. Casserly outlined the background to the resolution and noted the contents of the report.
Cllr. Walsh referred to a recent allocation of €50,000 from the Department of Planning and Local Government for Sligo County Council and sought clarification as to how it would be broken down and allocated.
Ms. Clarke advised the meeting that Sligo County Council had to return documentation to the Department for approval by Friday, 4th October. A copy of the documentation would be circulated to the Members following the meeting.
Cllr. MacSharry added his support to the motion and referred to the success of the Food Festival earlier this year. Christmas Markets in Ireland and across the world were a huge draw and would bring people into the urban core which was required.
30. ENACTMENT OF OCCUPIED TERRITORIES BILL
The Cathaoirleach said he wished to acknowledge the presence of Senator Frances Black and Senator Eileen Flynn at the Meeting. Senator Mark Daly had also visited County Hall earlier that day.
Councillors Bree and Gibbons set out their reasons for listing this motion and their understanding of the situation from information available in the public arena.
This was supported by Councillors O’Boyle and Healy
Several Members added their support and Cllr. Gilroy noted that, as it was not political but factual, he and many other Members would also have added their names to the motion on the agenda.
At the end of the discussion, Cllr. Clarke said he wished to pay tribute to the Cathaoirleach as, for over 30 years, he had stood with the people of Palestine and had highlighted that they were living in an ‘open jail’ on the West Bank.
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND UNANIMOUSLY AGREED
“That this Council, in light of the recent ruling by the International Court of Justice on the illegality of Israeli settlements in Occupied Palestinian Territories, calls on the Government to enact the Occupied Territories Bill, to cut Irish trade ties with Israeli goods and services produced in theses illegal settlements.”
The Cathaoirleach said he wished to acknowledge the comments made by Cllr. Gilroy and all the Members. He was very proud of the fact that, over the decades, Sligo County Council had consistently, across the Party divide, supported practically every Motion that came in in solidarity with the people of Palestine.
ADJOURNMENT FOR LUNCH
The Meeting adjourned at 12.40 p.m. and resumed at 1.15 p.m.
As items 22 and 41 were linked, the Cathaoirleach indicated that he would take both items at this time.
22. AND 41. FUNDING FROM UNPAID TAXES COLLECTED FROM “APPLE INC.”:
The Cathaoirleach said he would take items 22 and 41 together at this time and read both Motions to the Meeting.
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the government to make sure that a percentage of the 13 billion from the Apple tax is invested in Capital project infrastructure like the railway from Claremorris to Collooney N59, N15, and the N17, and housing as a matter of urgency as we are a region in transition.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“Noting (a) the €13 billion in unpaid taxes collected from Apple Inc; (b) the consistent underinvestment in critical enabling infrastructure in this region (c) the fact that this region now ranks 218th out of 234 regions in terms of infrastructure in the 27 countries which make up the European Union; this Council calls on the Taoiseach and the Government to provide the necessary funding for the re-opening of the 47 mile section of the Western Rail Corridor linking Claremorris with Collooney, and the upgrading of our road network including the N16 to Enniskillen and Belfast; the N17 to Galway and the N15 to Letterkenny.”
The Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Bree and Cllr. Healy set out the reasons behind the listing of their motions on the agenda and the projects that could be delivered, should that funding be made available.
Cllr. Taylor said it would look better, when going to Government for funding, to show that Sligo County Council was trying to help itself. When trying to be a positive, progressive Council, it had been shown in the vote taken earlier in the meeting relating to the Local Property Tax that they were prepared to make tough decisions. He felt that not everyone was prepared to make the tough decisions and while agreeing with the sentiments of the motions, it should be shown that Sligo County Council was progressive when seeking the funding.
Cllr. McSharry supported the motion and referred to the metrics presented to the meeting regarding Sligo being in a region in transition. A catching up initiative was required in the region.
Cllrs. Cosgrove, Clarke, Gibbons, Gilroy, Walsh and Mulvey also added their support to the motions and outlined the numerous projects in the area requiring funding.
24. STATE PENSION FOR TRADESPEOPLE
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“I call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Social protection to address the issue of many trades people involved in the construction industry who are suffering with ailments such as bad backs, Hips, Arthritis etc yet have to continue working until 66 to draw a state pension.
The contributory State pension is only paid to people from the age of 66 who have made enough (PRSI) contributions during their working life. The non-contributory State pension is paid out to people who do not qualify for a contributory pension or who only qualify for a reduced contributory pension based on their PRSI contributions. It is means tested and is paid out from the age of 66.
The State Invalidity pension is ONLY payable to individuals who satisfy the necessary PRSI contribution conditions and have been incapable of work for at least 12 months and are likely to be incapable of work for at least another 12 months or are permanently incapable of work again or are over age 60 and have a serious illness or incapacity. Some of these trade people cannot afford to work part time and if a scheme were in place to allow them to draw even a partial pension and reduce their work hours this would be a great help to them.”
25. ESTABLISHMENT OF COURT FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES TO FAST-TRACK DEBT RECOVERY:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“I call on this Government to support the establishment of a new court for Small Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to fast-track debt recovery. Many small businesses across the country frequently struggle with the costly burden of pursuing outstanding payments owed to them - an issue that can make or break a small business. Unpaid invoices and late payments can have a crippling effect on them. The current legal system fails to provide an efficient and cost-effective means for small businesses to recover smaller debts. For instance, the Irish Small Claims Court does not even handle debt claims and caps awards at a mere €2,000.”
26. INSTALLATION OF COMPOSTABLE TOILETS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council install Compostable Toilets and encourage the use of Compostable Toilets by amenity providers (Coillte, Leader etc.) at selected locations throughout County Sligo where traditional waste disposal is currently facilitated by Portaloo’s and Chemical Toilets.
These toilets are useful as an alternative to flush toilets particularly in off grid locations.
These would ultimately lead to cost savings in the cost of rental and servicing and all the waste is composted away in a short time with the composted materials being used as fertilizer that could be used to replace chemical fertilizers.”
The Members had been advised by the Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, that Sligo County Council would investigate the feasibility of installing composting toilets in lieu of “portaloos”.
27. APPEALS PROCESS FOR CROI CÓNAITHE GRANT SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council detail to members the appeals process for any Croi Cónaithe Grant applicants that are initially rejected/refused by the Vacant homes Officer and further rejected on Appeal.”
A report had been issued to the Members confirming that the Vacant Homes Team have processed appeals received in respect of decisions on Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant applications in a manner which is consistent with the above guidance.
29. EXTENSION OF FUEL ALLOWANCE SCHEME:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“This local authority calls on the Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys to extend the fuel allowance scheme to family in receipt of the working family payment.”
31. BUDGET FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FESTIVALS IN QUEEN MAEVE SQUARE:
Cllr. Walsh informed the Members that he had recently joined the Voluntary Board of Sligo Summer Festival. A hugely successful Food Festival had taken place in Queen Maeve Square, funded by a very small budget. This was a family friendly Festival and it was hoped to run further Festivals during the Bank Holiday weekends in May, June and August 2025.
The benefits to Sligo and its businesses were outlined by Councillor Walsh. Among those benefitting were Transport Providers, Taxi businesses, Hotels, Bars, Restaurants, Cafes and Retail businesses. For the Festival to expand, the Board had engaged with the Local Enterprise Office. Work was in train on a Strategy and Development/Business Plan for the next three years. There was no income from the Festival as it averaged between €70,000-€80,000 expenditure. If Queen Maeve Square was to be developed into what it should be, everyone would have to give a little, including Sligo County Council, the businesses and people attending the Festivals. Cllr. Walsh referred to the following report received by the Members -
Sligo Summer Festival Limited is one of a number of Festival Promoters who have organised Festivals in Queen Maeve Square. Council funding for Festivals and Events is provided for under (i) the Contribution to the Arts Scheme and (ii) Community & Voluntary Grants Scheme (Tourism/Community/Commercial Festivals), both of which are advertised at the beginning of each year (subject to a grant allocation being provided in each year’s budget).
The application process for both grant schemes is by way of a competitive bid. Provision will, as in previous years, be made in the 2025 Draft Budget for Festivals and Events which Sligo Summer Festival Limited will be able to apply for (subject to the Draft Budget being adopted by the Members at the Budget Meeting).
Members had discussed the schemes mentioned in the reply and Cllr. Walsh referred to sums available from those schemes and from Fáilte Ireland.
A Festival and Events Committee had been due to be established by Quarter 3 of 2024 and Cllr. Walsh concluded by asking the Director of Services for an update on that Committee and to advise the Members who was managing Queen Maeve Square, a key piece of infrastructure; who should be contacted to arrange an event in the Square and what Protocols and Governance was in place.
Cllr. O’Boyle, in supporting the motion, said that with the investment involved and the time taken to put the facility in place, events should continue to be held there. These should be something the people wanted, and it should not be left lying idle due to its ideal location right in the city centre and at the heart of the town. Clarification on Membership of the Queen Maeve Committee was also sought by Cllr. O’Boyle.
In terms of the motion, Cllr. Nealon said he would have concerns about a baseline fund being given to a Limited Company in a non-competitive process and felt that it was a dangerous precedent to make. He had concerns regarding the governance of the Sligo Summer Festival and wanted to examine how grant money would support festivals and a possible monopoly for local businesses in the Square. Numerous food and hospitality businesses had contacted Cllr. Nealon on the issue and he stated that all were not seeing the benefit, and many said they had suffered losses. Quieter weekends and the shoulder season were suggested as an option to bring in extra business. More businesses needed to benefit from the Council’s investment in the Square. The recent “Taste of Sligo” event had benefited eight local food stalls, with six local Chefs and Restaurants represented, all promoting Sligo and the northwest. Cllr. Nealon asked that the Council have a fair and open tender process for the running of the festival itself and the festival bar. He would also discourage the larger festivals being under the control of the largest business in the Square and there should be independent governance to maintain its integrity. The Council could consider a mechanism whereby they could support festivals operating at less busy times. This would assist all businesses in town and a holistic approach should be taken to promote the fair usage of the Square.
Cllr. Taylor, in noting the points made by Cllr. Walsh, said Sligo did need festivals. However, his understanding from discussions prior to the launch of the Square, what that when all was up and running Sligo County Council was not going to have to finance after it thereafter. While he could see where the motion was coming from, and the sentiments of same, that was the impression he had been under and sought clarification around this financing.
An investment of €4.5 million by Fáilte Ireland in Queen Maeve Square was highlighted by Cllr. Gibbons. If the project was not given the go-ahead at its location, that funding would have gone elsewhere, he advised the Meeting. Clarification was sought by him as to whether there was a difficulty with the various, local businesses selling alcohol just because their business was located in the “right” place. If so, he felt that this was wrong. Cllr. Gibbons was aware of other businesses in Sligo town that had advantages due to their location and gave the example of businesses being in the vicinity of the Train and Bus Stations.
In concluding, he said that his main concern was that whatever decision was made in relation to the running of Queen Maeve Square, the County Council should retain control of it. Any event taking place in the Square had a knock-on effect for the rest of the town. His biggest concern was who was going to oversee the running of those events.
Ms. Clarke responded by advising the Members that, had this notice of motion been listed on the November Agenda, it might be clearer at that time. A lot of work is taking place in the Directorate in relation to festivals and events, preparation of a Strategy, Queen Maeve Square and an Operator Model. The Director did not want to bring an incomplete proposal to the Members. This work involved a lot of collaboration and discussion with Fáilte Ireland, Operators, etc. and had been ongoing for several months. In relation to the response to the notice of motion, there was a Festivals and Events Grants Scheme. It was funded quite significantly under the Contribution to the Arts Grants Scheme. The amount referred to by Cllr. Walsh was funded under the Community and Voluntary Grants Scheme. In recent years, that Scheme had been reviewed to ensure that commercial, non-commercial, community and tourism event organisers and promoters could apply under the scheme. It was not recommended that anyone would get priority without having to apply to the grant scheme. It was not proposed to change that for 2025 but that would be a decision for the Members.
In the case of Sligo Summer Festival, they had applied for grant assistance in the past and had been successful with their application. For 2025, it would be recommended that they follow that route and apply for whatever funding would be provided in the 2025 Budget.
Some time ago, there had been a proposal to establish a Festivals and Events Committee. A draft proposal in relation to this was almost complete. A proposal would be brought to Members at the November meeting outlining the role, purpose and what that Committee would be involved in. One of the specific items, Members had requested was that they would have an oversight role on the Queen Maeve Square and Cleveragh Performance Space. All of that was being incorporated into a proposal for the role of the Committee. It was hoped that this would be presented to the full Council in November.
In relation to Queen Maeve Square, the Executive were liaising with Fáilte Ireland in relation to their conditions. The Director of Services confirmed that €4 million of an investment had been received. The bulk of that had been received from Fáilte Ireland but also from the URDF and Sligo County Council. There were specific grants conditions around an Operator Model. It was anticipated that Queen Maeve Square would serve a dual role – first and foremost as a public space and secondly as an Events space. The Operator Model being examined would be specifically for the operation and administration of programming, festivals and events. The monitoring role for the festivals and events would be tied in with the Committee. The Executive was also liaising with Sligo BID Company who may be able to fulfil the Operator role. All of this would be documented in the report being issued to Members in due course.
In response, Cllr. Nealon said he wished to reiterate that there had been a €4 million investment in prime Real Estate and there was a monopoly to sell alcohol. He did not have a difficulty with the businesses there, in a great location, but it was a monopoly situation and Sligo County Council had to be very careful in terms of the organisation and potential conflicts. Oversight and proper integrity were required over the Festival Committee. The Square should not be given away and then grant funding also allocated.
Cllr. Walsh thanked the Members for their input but said he wished to distance himself from comments made in relation to names and any commentary around a monopoly. Sligo Summer Festival had been founded and run as a family event, as had most of the festivals. Most events also had been free to access. In thanking the Director of Services for her reply, he welcomed the update in relation to the oversight role, operator role and Festivals and Events Strategy.
In relation to the Operator model, Cllr. Walsh said that Ms. Clarke had alluded to Sligo BID. He was unsure if that role had been advertised by the local authority. In relation to Sligo Summer Festival, there were several new Board members, including Cllr. O’Boyle, and it was their hope to expand the festival. Comments had been made in relation to taking over the Square. The whole piece around the operating model and governance would be that the Square could be booked. The model would include details regarding insurance, the capacity, risk assessments, safety statements and security. The model was not in place and that was what was being sought. The festival got sponsorship from some local businesses, there had been a small charge on the gate. This paid the acts, the insurance through Sligo BID who invested in the festival. Other sources also invested in Sligo Summer Festival and the family friendly event for 4,500 people, at little to no cost, which probably would not happen if they did not invest.
Cllr. MacSharry said it was important that a positive message went out from the meeting. As with the winter markets, the Taste of Sligo Food Festival had been a massive attraction. Three festival weekends could be considered in Queen Maeve Square, and this was a positive initiative. Sligo County Council was very supportive of the initiative because they brought in crowds. These people, drawn in for the festivals, then spent money in Sligo. Having spoken with a number of people following the events, they were delighted as a lot of money had been spent. Pubs that were normally quiet, were busy and hotels also gained business. Members who had voted earlier in the meeting for an increase in the Local Property Tax had put €100,000 extra for Tourism into the Council’s budget.
In concluding the discussion, the Chief Executive informed the Meeting that the operating model was an Executive Function. This was why the Executive were negotiating in relation to that model. Having listened to the discussion, he felt it was important that Sligo County Council were managing the process and ensuring good governance. Sligo County Council had an independent minded Executive and the correct decision would be made for Sligo from an economic perspective and that was what the Square was about – bringing economic progress to Sligo town and county. Members could rest assured that when the operating model was resolved, there would be that independence and each body that came forward with a proposal would be judged on its merits, as should happen. This was not making anything personal but was about doing the right thing for Sligo and that was what should be done. In agreeing with points made by Cllr. MacSharry, the Chief Executive said that the Square only opened in May 2024. It is a fantastic amenity to have, and it was intended to use it to its fullest so that Sligo reached its potential. That needed to be borne in mind. If various organisations were prepared to put their shoulders to the wheel and invest, and it took a lot of investment to organise a festival or event, then the Council would absolutely be supportive as they recognised the benefits for the whole of Sligo.
In noting the wording of the motion, the Cathaoirleach said that this could be considered at the Budget Meeting. Unless the Council decided to change the system of Grant Schemes as set out in the Director’s report, that stood. It was suggested that when the Members had the draft operating model put before them at their next meeting, a further discussion could take place around Queen Maeve Square and festivals, the question of governance and management. As that would be in advance of the Budget Meeting in November, that would be of assistance to the Members. The discussion at the meeting had been good with issues raised and addressed in the Council Chamber. This was a step in the right direction as the amount of misinformation, especially with social media, was incredible.
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to consider allocating a baseline fund in the next budget to Sligo Summer Festival Ltd in order for it to develop 3 diverse festival weekends in Queen Maeve Square in 2025 for the benefit of our town centre economy and our county.”
32. UPDATE ON PROVISION OF OUTDOOR WATER BASED ACTIVITY CENTRES:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council provide at update on the provision of the funded outdoor water-based activity centres.”
Members had been advised that preparation of tender documents for the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team for the Outdoor Centres proposed for Enniscrone and Rosses Point was underway. Tender documents were substantially complete and it was anticipated that the competition would be advertised via eTenders circa mid-October 2024.
33. SALE OF COUNCIL LANDS TO A.T.U. SLIGO:
As Items 33 and 40 both related to sale of Council lands to the A.T.U. Sligo, the Cathaoirleach dealt with both motions at this stage.
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
“That this Council requests an update from both Sligo ATU and the Local authority on the current progress of the sale of Council lands to the ATU for student accommodation purposes.”
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
“To ask Sligo County Council what plans have they in place to support and ensure the provision of student accommodation in Sligo town.”
The Members had been advised by Mr. Moran, Acting Director of Services, that the Council has been in discussions with the ATU for some time regarding the potential development of student accommodation on Council-owned land at Ardaghowen, Sligo. The ATU has informed us that they expect a decision soon on their funding application to the Higher Education Authority and are now ready to move forward with acquiring the land from the Council. This topic is set to be discussed at the Corporate Policy Group meeting on Monday, October 7th, 2024, with a view to bringing the proposal to the Council’s November Plenary meeting for further consideration.
Following the report and a brief discussion on the matter, it was then
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To write to the Minister of Higher Education to request that the sale of Council lands to the A.T.U. Sligo is expedited as a matter of urgency.”
At the request of Cllr. Queenan, and with the consent of the Cathaoirleach, items 34, 35 and 36 on the agenda were deferred to the November Ordinary Meeting:
34. “To ask the Director of Services to give update report on RRDF projects in the county.”
35. “To ask the Director of Housing to report how many social houses have commenced construction 2024 and will in 2025.” and
36. “To ask the C. E. what plans have Sligo County Council for tourism in 2025.
37. PROVISION OF CUSTOMER SERVICES CONTACT FOR DOMESTIC REFUSE COLLECTORS:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this local authority calls on the Minister of the Environment to initiate the following, as part of the licensing condition for Domestic refuse collectors that all waste collection companies would be required to have a local Direct complaints and enquiries phone service to accommodate genuine public concerns from their customers and the local community.”
38. OPERATIONAL FUNDING FOR SLIGO AIRPORT:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council to write to Minister of Transport Eamon Ryan and the Minister of State for Transport, James Lawless to request support for the submission made by Sligo Airport seeking operational funding. The airport is the nominated base for 24hours Safety and Rescue services and requires funding for mandatory safety training.”
39. REINSTATEMENT OF SERVICES ON SLIGO-DUBLIN TRAIN:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council to write to the Minister of Health to inform him that the primary care Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) Service for CHO1is operating at 50% of its staff quota. The regional health forum west has reported the 7 vacant positions have not been filled since the lifting of the embargo and there are no plans to recruit while the waiting lists for initial assessment and ongoing treatment has risen by over 200% in the last year. To request that the Minister intervene with the CEO of the RHFW to rectify this unacceptable situation as a matter of urgency.”
42. PUBLIC ACCESS TO NEOLITHIC MONUMENT ABOVE FOX’S DEN ON CAIRNS (CARNS) HILL:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“Cognisant of the fact that the Council adopted a motion at its meeting in February this year asking the Executive to seek a meeting with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Office of Public Works with a view to investigating the possibility of developing public access to the Neolithic monument located above the Fox’s Den on Cairns (Carns) Hill, this meeting requests an update and progress report on the matter.”
The Members had been advised by Ms. Clarke that, following the adoption of the notice of motion relating to lands at Cairns Hill, the Council wrote to the NMS in Dept and were informed that the Monument in question was in private ownership and that any discussion on the matter between the Dept and the Council would be entirely inappropriate without the consent of the owner.
However, a meeting between the NMS and the Council on heritage matters which would have allowed for the Cairns Hill lands to be raised was to take place on 28th Feb 2024. This meeting was subsequently postponed. While a further meeting has not taken place a significant number of discussions have taken place over the phone in relation to the site.
We have since been advised that the OPW did investigate the purchase of the Cairns Hill lands but expressed concern that only 2/3rds share of the land holding were being put up for sale rather than the entire landholding. In that event, we were also advised that it is unlikely that the state would purchase the land under these circumstances at this time.
The Department have indicated that they will keep in touch with the OPW in relation to the lands should the situation change. I believe that the lands have now be withdrawn from sale.
43. PREVENTION OF FUTURE CLOSURES IN EARLY YEARS AND SCHOOL-AGED CARE SECTOR:
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council establish a response team to work with Sligo County Childcare Committee in order to identify and, where possible, prevent future closures in the Early Years and School-Aged Care sector.”
Following a discussion on this matter, Ms. Clarke advised the Meeting that Sligo County Council did not have any role in the provision of childcare. This was the sole responsibility of the County Childcare Committee, and Members noted the points made. Cllr. Cosgrove asked that the item would be deferred for further consideration at the November Ordinary Meeting.
44. TIME FRAME FOR PAYMENTS TO SECTION 39, 10 AND 56 AGENCIES:
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County council write to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth requesting the time frame of when Section 39, 10 and 56 agencies will receive into their bank accounts the guaranteed 8% pay agreements for workers for 2024”.
45. INTELLIGENCE INFORMATION IN RELATION TO OPERATION NEWHAM:
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
“2024 marks the 50th year of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings. May 17th, 1974, was the single worst day of the Troubles where 34 people were killed, including an unborn baby. 258 people were also injured that day.
Anne Marren from Sligo was one of those killed on the day in Dublin while she was on the way to catch a train back to Sligo. No one has been charged in connection with the bombings. Relatives of the victims, and many others, believe the killers were assisted and protected by members of the British security forces.
There are two investigations into the Glennane Gang, the notorious loyalist group which has been linked to more than 120 murders during the 1970s. The first is Operation Denton headed up by Independent English police officers and Gardaí have provided intelligence material to assist in this inquiry.
The second enquiry Operation Newham is headed up by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland. To date An Garda Síochána have not responded to several requests for the same intelligence material from the Police Ombudsman for NI who is investigating allegations of collusion and failings in RUC investigations into killings linked to the Glennane gang.
I am requesting that Sligo County Council write to the Taoiseach Simon Harris and to the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee to ask the reason why An Garda Síochána has failed to provide intelligence information in relation to Operation Newham”.
46. STUDENTS IN TRANSITION YEAR VOTER REGISTRATION:
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor L. Brennan
AND AGREED
“That this Council writes to the Minister for Education requesting that it would be included in the curriculum that students would be encouraged to register their votes in transition year.”
47. INVESTMENT IN COLD CASE FILES AND D.N.A. DATABASE:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Justice and Taoiseach to invest in Cold Case Files and a DNA database.”
48. REQUEST FOR BAN ON FOX AND CUB HUNTING:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Agriculture to bring in a law banning fox hunting and cub hunting.”
Councillors Mullaney and Walsh wished to be recording as dissenting from this resolution.
49. COMMUNITY PARAMEDIC TEAM FOR COUNTY SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the HSE, the Saolta Regional CE, the Minister for Health, the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste to ask them what plans are in place for a community paramedic team for the county of Sligo.
That this motion be copied to the 4 Oireachtas members in Sligo, Leitrim, South Donegal.”
50. ILLEGAL PARKING AT SCENIC AREAS, SCHOOLS AND ON CYCLE LANES:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council assign a member of the traffic Warden staff to cover illegal parking in rural areas and urban areas outside the Sligo Town Centre to deal with illegal parking at Scenic areas, Schools and on Cycle lanes.”
Ms. Concannon had reported to the Members that the primary responsibility of Sligo County Council Traffic Wardens is to enforce car park and parking places bye-laws in Sligo town.
The enforcement of illegal parking is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána.
51. SUBMISSIONS TO DRAFT SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher
AND AGREED
“To ask this Council to question some of the submissions made to the Development Plan from Uisce Éireann, OPR and the OPW and to explore the accuracy of such submissions and report back with particular attention to the submissions on PAZ – 63.”
52. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Votes of Sympathy were recorded.
53. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Votes of Congratulations were recorded.
The Members noted that Mr. Donal Ryan of Ocean FM was present at the Meeting. Mr. Ryan had recently won an IMRO Award.
Proposed by Cllr. M. Casserly
Seconded by Cllr. N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Donal Ryan of Ocean FM Ireland, Collooney Business Park on winning a Bronze Medal at the recent IMRO Radio Awards for Sports Broadcaster of the Year.”
54. CONFERENCES / TRAINING:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To approve the Conferences/Training events list.”
55. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:
The Members noted the summary of proceedings of conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5)(f) of the Local Government Act, 2001.
56. CORRESPONDENCE:
The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.
57. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
Allocation of funding for Christmas lights:
At the Ordinary Meeting on 9th September, Cllr. T. Walsh submitted the following resolution which was agreed:
“That Sligo County Council explore the automatic allocation of Christmas lights funding to each town and village across Sligo instead of Community Groups completing unnecessary amounts of paperwork and seeking unnecessary quotations for amounts below public procurement guidelines.”
In response, Ms. Clarke circulated a report to the Members advising them that it was envisaged that allocations could be ring fenced and made directly to the 29 groups who were allocated funding in 2023 without the making of individual applications. This would be made, subject to a Letter of Offer issuing to the group with relevant conditions which would be signed by two members of the group (Chair and one other). This would enable a level of best practice, oversight and good governance to be in place in the disbursement of public monies in the absence of specific applications.
The options available were set out and the Members were asked for their decision on which method to proceed with in the allocation of the Christmas lights fund.
The Members agreed to proceed with the proposal, as set out in the resolution, for 2024 for review in 2025.
58. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
Signage re. Lyme Disease
In response to an enquiry from Cllr. Gilroy, Ms. Concannon confirmed that figures would be provided to the Members at the November Meeting.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 4.10 p.m.
Meeting Date 07/10/2024