Minutes 2024
Minutes of December Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00 am on Thursday 5th December, 2024 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Bree,
- Councillor Brennan,
- Councillor Clarke,
- Councillor Cosgrove,
- Councillor Gallagher,
- Councillor Gibbons,
- Councillor Gilroy,
- Councillor McSharry, E.,
- Councillor Mulvey,
- Councillor O’Boyle,
- Councillor Queenan,
- Councillor Taylor and
- Councillor Walsh.
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr. Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
- Ms. Emer Concannon, Acting Director of Services
- Mr. Jim Molloy, Director of Services
- Ms. Patricia Guckian, Financial Accountant
- Mr. John Moran, Acting Director of Services
- Mr. Dónal Tinney, County Librarian
- Mr. Thomas Kerins, Acting Senior Executive Engineer
- Ms. Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
- Ms. Karen McMahon, IS Technical Support Officer
- Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer
APOLOGIES:
Apologies were received from Councillor M. Casserly, Councillor T. Healy, Councillor T. MacSharry, Councillor G. Mullaney and Councillor F. Nealon.
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Declan Bree, presided.
GENERAL ELECTION 2024
The Cathaoirleach congratulated the four Deputies elected by the people of Sligo, Leitrim and South Donegal – Martin Kenny, Marian Harkin, Eamon Scanlon and Frank Feighan. He wished them well in their term of office and extended the Members’ commiserations to those who were unsuccessful on this occasion, particularly the five colleagues from Sligo County Council.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Members noted the Minutes of meeting of Sligo County Council Audit Committee held on 21st May, 2024.
2. MINUTES OF THE BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETINGS
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To note the Minutes of the following Meetings
a) Annual General Meeting held on 1st July, 2024
b) Meeting held on 15th July, 2024
c) Meeting held on 14th October, 2024 and
d) Budget Meeting held on 30th October, 2024.”
3. MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETINGS
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor L. Brennan
AND AGREED
“To note Minutes of the following Ballymote Tubbercurry Municipal District Meetings
a) Municipal District Meeting held on 23rd September, 2024 and
b) Municipal District Budget Meeting held on 4th November, 2024.”
4. MINUTES OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUP MEETING
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To note Minutes of Meetings of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) held on a) 9th September, 2024 and b) 7th October, 2024.”
5. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 4th November, 2024.”
6. MINUTES OF STATUTORY BUDGET MEETING
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Sligo County Council’s Statutory Budget Meeting held on 22nd November, 2024.”
7. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF THE FREEHOLD INTEREST IN PROPERTY AT 14 PEARSE CRESCENT, SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of the freehold interest in property at no. 14 Pearse Crescent, Sligo to Mary Reilly.”
8. DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council, being satisfied of their general public utility, declare the following roads as public roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993 –
Road serving development known as “Oyster Bay”, Rosses Point, Co. Sligo
Road Nos. L-73155-0, L-73155-1, L-73155-2, L-73155-3, L-73155-4.”
9. DECLARATION OF ROADS AS PUBLIC ROADS
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council, being satisfied of their general public utility, declare the following roads as public roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993
Road No. Location and Terminal Points
L-48012-0 Road L-48012-0 for a distance of162m commencing at junction with L4803-0, north and east to terminate at junction with road L4801-0 in the townland of Lislea, Aclare in the Barony of Leyny.
L-14043 Extension of Road L-14043 for a distance of 1.41km, commencing at the junction with L-3700 in the townland of Cloongad South West and South East to its termination point at L14043 in the townland of Lecarrow, Castlebaldwin.
L-22049-0 Road L-22049-0 for a distance of 705m commencing at the junction with L2204 north east and south east in the townland of Bunninna, Dromard.”
10. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF LANDS AT CURRY
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant, to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, disposal of lands at Curry, County Sligo (Part of Sligo County Council Folios SL9593F and SL7657F) to Mr. Brendan Walsh and Ms. Anna Marie Mulholland.”
11. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF “MC GUINNESS HOUSE”, ACLARE
Proposed by Councillor B. Gallagher
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant, to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, disposal of “McGuinness House”, Main Street, Aclare, County Sligo to Mr. Jack Walsh.”
12. SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – LEASING OF LAND AT DEEP WATER QUAY, SLIGO HARBOUR
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To approve pursuant, to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the leasing of land at Deep Water Quay, Sligo Harbour, Townland of Finisklin, County Sligo to ‘Clearway’, Hammond Lane Metal Company Limited.”
13. SECTION 6 OF HOUSING (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT, 1992 – 3 BRU NA HABHAINN, COLLOONEY
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance in the form of CALF Loan in the amount of €40,000 to iCARE Housing Company Limited by Guarantee in respect of property at No 3 Bru na Habhainn, Collooney, Co Sligo.”
14. NOAC LOCAL AUTHORITY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR REPORT 2023
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To note NOAC Local Authority Performance Indicator Report 2023.”
The Cathaoirleach said he wished to comment on this report and said that NOAC had been established ten years ago with the role of providing oversight of the Local Government sector. A summary report had been circulated to the Members and the Cathaoirleach thanked the Director of Services for the report.
Reference was made to indicators showing Sligo County Council’s improved performance. A very significant number of those indicators showed levels of performance by the Council exceeding the median performance of the other Level 5 local authorities. This was to be welcomed. In terms of the Council’s finances, the Cathaoirleach referred to figures showing a deficit on the revenue account and said that Sligo had the highest level of debt per capita of any local authority in the country. He continued by noting that the deficit was being reduced each year and felt that relevant sections of the NOAC report should be considered by each of the new Strategic Policy Committees
It was then agreed by the Members that this report, and the sections of it relating to the specific Strategic Policy Committee, would be brought before them for their consideration and input, once established in 2025.
15. APPOINTMENTS TO AUDIT COMMITTEE 2024-2029
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To approve report re. appointments to the Audit Committee 2024-2029.”
16. REPORT FROM AUDIT COMMITTEE ON AUDIT REPORT 2023
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To note the report of Sligo County Council’s Audit Committee on the Statutory Audit Report for the year ended 31st December, 2023.”
17. CORPORATE PLAN
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher
AND AGREED
“To approve the extension of timeframe to February 2025 to facilitate the preparation and adoption of the Corporate Plan, in accordance with Section 134 (4)(b) of the Local Government Act, 2001, as amended.”
18. SLIGO CREATIVE IRELAND OPEN CALL 2025
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To note the recommendations of the Sligo County Council Culture and Creativity Team under the Sligo Creative Ireland Open Call 2025.”
Councillor Walsh thanked Mr. Tinney and his team and welcomed the increase of €20,000 in this budget and the three allocations under the initial allocations. This fund had received over 70 applications which was a huge increase.
19. BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (BID) RATE OF LEVY AND COLLECTION CHARGE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“(1) To set the BID levy at 0.0143 times the rateable valuation of businesses in the BID area, to be applied in respect of the chargeable period 1st January 2025 to 31st December, 2025;
(2) That the BID levy collection charge payable to the Council by the BID Company be set at €11,000.”
In noting the detailed figures included in the report, Councillor Walsh welcomed two allocations in particular – a) €150,000 for existing Festivals and new town initiatives and b) €135,000 for new events/initiatives.
20. APPOINTMENT TO BOARD OF “THE MODEL”
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To appoint Councillor Arthur Gibbons to the Board of the Model.”
21. JANUARY ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the date for the January Ordinary Meeting would be set as 13th January, 2025.”
22. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT – NOVEMBER 2024
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher
AND AGREED
“To note the Monthly Management Report for November 2024.”
23. DRAFT AIR POLLUTION BILL
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach and Members item 23, as listed by Councillor T. Healy, was deferred to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda:
“To ask if this Local authority has received any communication from Government with regard to the draft Air Pollution Bill currently being finalised and if it has a view with regard to the search and seize powers contained in the bill and the possibility arising from of Local authority staff entering private dwellings and homes.”
24. STATE SUPPORTS FOR DISABLED DRIVERS AND
25. REPAINTING OF DISABLED CAR PARKING SPACES
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach and Members items 24 and 25, as listed by Councillor M. Casserly, were deferred to the January Ordinary Meeting Agenda:
“To request that the same state supports provided to disabled drivers in relation to the running of their ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles be extended to disabled drivers of electric vehicles on a like for like basis.”
and
“To request that all the disabled spaces in public car parks and on public streets in Sligo town and throughout the county be repainted as resources allow over the coming months.”
26. CRITERIA TO ACHIEVE REGIONAL ROAD STATUS
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor L. Brennan
AND AGREED
“I ask Sligo County Council what criteria is required to achieve regional road status. Many of our local roads are not receiving sufficient funding to make them safer. Traffic volumes have increased greatly in the past few years, yet busy local roads still have dangerous bends, are not wide enough to have road markings.”
Ms. Concannon had circulated a report to the Members advising them that, in general, the following principles apply to roads that are currently classified as Regional Roads:
- Roads serving as main feeder routes to the national road network,
- Roads serving as links between the national road network,
- Roads serving as connecting roads between principal towns in a county or between counties,
- Roads serving secondary ports, airports and ferries and
- Designated alternative routes to the national road network.
Councillor Mulvey spoke of representations he had received relating to the condition and width of several roads, particularly those experiencing a significant increase in volume of traffic. An example was given of road L2101 (Coolaney to Collooney). Comments from Councillor Mulvey were supported by Councillors. Brennan, Walsh, Gilroy and Taylor and they gave further examples of other roads they felt required upgrading.
In response, Ms. Concannon informed the meeting that traffic surveys could be undertaken on the routes referred to by the Elected Members. At the time of preparing the response, there were 15 regional roads in Sligo. The Director of Services advised the meeting that the status might not mean extra funding for those roads. The Council was dependent on central Government for funding to improve regional and local roads. As Members knew from the Roads Programme, this funding did not stretch to all the roads in Sligo.
27. UPDATE ON STORM BERT AND
28. MAINTENANCE PLAN FOR OWENMORE RIVER
As some of the Members felt these matters were related, the Cathaoirleach consented to a request to take both items at this time.
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“Can I ask Sligo County Council, please, to give an update on the recent Storm Bert and the flooding that affected many homes and roads.”
Ms. Concannon reported the details of works carried out over the weekend of Storm Bert. It was noted that crews attended approximately 140 incidents, predominantly on Saturday, 23rd November. Details of the works, locations and personnel involved were also outlined.
Councillor Mulvey and the other Members acknowledged the works carried out and paid tribute to all those involved.
Under item 36, Councillor Taylor had listed the following motion:
“What Maintenance Plan is in place for the next 3 years for the Owenmore River and what works have taken place over the previous 3 years.”
In reply, Ms. Concannon had reported to the Members that JBA Consulting prepared a plan on behalf of Sligo County Council for future maintenance of the Owenmore River in 2019/2020. Consultation took place with interested stakeholders. It was intended to carry out elements of the plan annually in consultation with the Owenmore Drainage Committee, Inland Fisheries and landowners along the river. However, due to ongoing Court proceedings there are no current plans to carry out works on the river in 2025. No work has been carried out in the last three years due to these proceedings.
Following a lengthy discussion with all Members present contributing, it was then
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey and Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To write to all Party Leaders and all 4 Elected Dáil Deputies in Sligo-Leitrim relevant to the required increase in funding to every local authority to support them with works around climate resilience in light of recent flooding throughout County Sligo.”
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to write to the Minister and Department with responsibility for flood relief and drainage of our rivers to meet a delegation from this Council to include members of the Executive and representatives from all Parties to discuss flooding issues throughout County Sligo.”
28. STRATEGY FOR DEALING WITH ABANDONED VEHICLES
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“I ask Sligo County Council what strategy it has in how to deal with abandoned vehicles that are left in carparks, roads and public spaces throughout our County.”
Ms. Concannon reported to the Members that Abandoned vehicles can be dealt with under Waste, Litter and Roads legislation, but the most practical is the Road Traffic (Removal, Storage and Disposal of Vehicles) Regulations. The Area Office is notified of the abandoned vehicle and, following some investigation, the Area Engineer organises its removal by an appropriately authorised waste collector.
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh, L. Brennan, P. Taylor, B. Gallagher and J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To suspend Standing Orders to discuss the Sligo County Development Plan 2024-2030 and the draft Ministerial Direction which has removed 20 parcels of land for development in Sligo against the wishes of the Elected Members of Sligo County Council.
That two page written motion submitted be forwarded to the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR), the Ministers in the Department of Housing, the four Dáil Deputies in Sligo-Leitrim and all Party Leaders.”
Standing Orders were suspended, and the following discussion commenced at 11.20 a.m.
DISCUSSION ON SLIGO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2024-2030
Councillor Gilroy advised the meeting that some Members wanted a submission regarding the County Development Plan to go from the Members as a Body to the Minister and the OPR. The timeline to do this had been quite tight. Question marks had been raised by the Members over some of the figures provided to them as part of the draft plan. They felt that this had an impact on the amount of land overall that needed to be zoned.
The submission they were proposing to forward to the OPR, as circulated by Councillor Walsh to the Members, indicated that there were some figures requiring change. There was no maximum on the amount of housing that could be developed. If the figures were incorrect, as the Members believed they were, this led the Members to make a decision which put a level on it that was too low.
In the making of his decision, the Minister should consider that these figures were flawed. As a result, he needed to include some, if not all, of the 20 sites that he proposed to remove in the draft Ministerial Order. In conclusion, he asked the Members to support the submission and to aim for at least the minimum as the targets had to be reached.
Councillor Walsh thanked the Cathaoirleach and Members for allowing the discussion on this matter. This had been moved on foot of consultation on the Ministerial Order with the closing date for submissions being Monday, 9th December. This was the final time that Members could discuss the matter. The Council had given a clear directive on the Plan and the Minister had over-ruled it in relation to 20 parcels of land, in agreement with the OPR, who had advised on removing 21 parcels of land.
It was Councillor Walsh’s opinion that three things would be required to solve the housing crisis
- Reducing the cost of building supplies
- Improving the labour market and
- Making land available for social, affordable and private homes was the key part in terms of the local authority’s mandate.
Councillor Walsh continued by detailing the background to the proposed submission and referred to Consultants having examined the tables. They believed that the baseline figure in the Core Strategy was inaccurate. He felt that some figures and statistics in relation to several areas needed to be addressed (as set out in the Members’ proposed submission). He was extremely disappointed with the OPR and their recommendations and did not know how the Council could move forward with the provision of housing and solving the housing crisis when there was an independent regulator overregulating the housing supply and housing targets by not allowing enough land to be zoned. This was also the case in other counties and local authorities. The reason given by the OPR for each parcel of land being removed was that it could not be serviced in the lifetime of the Plan. This was really a matter for Planning – that land was serviced or serviceable. It was his hope that Government policy, going forward, around housing would allow over-zoning of land in each local authority area by quite a margin. 16-18% of land zoned for residential use in the previous Plan was developed in County Sligo.
The Cathaoirleach responded to the Members stating that the Motion before the meeting was to suspend the Standing Orders to discuss the issue and asked if he could be advised what the submission was about.
Councillor Gilroy responded that the Members wanted the document to be their submission from the Elected Members. Each Councillor could do their own individual submission but there would be one that was voted through by the Members of Sligo County Council.
The Cathaoirleach sought clarification that Councillor Walsh was seconding the proposal to make the submission and asked if everyone had received a copy of the document. While the Members had agreed to suspend Standing Orders, he had a concern about a lengthy motion not being circulated and Members then being asked to vote on it without having read it. He commented that he would read it but it was not the way to do business.
Councillor Queenan complimented the Members who had prepared the submission, having carried out their research to do so, and had found that the figures provided to Sligo County Council were not accurate. The same Minister who had dealt with this, prior to the General Election, would still be dealing with it until a new Government was formed and felt that this would be a problem. It was unlikely that he would change what he had already decided.
Councillor Gilroy confirmed to the Meeting that the deadline for submissions was Monday, 9th December so this was the last opportunity to finalise it.
The Cathaoirleach asked if the Executive had sight of the proposed submission from the Members or if they had any comment on same. The Chief Executive confirmed that, while they had not, there was no need for them to do so as it would go straight to the OPR.
Further discussion took place on the relevant deadlines, figures in question, zoning of land and other details as previously highlighted.
The Cathaoirleach, as a Member and not in his role as Cathaoirleach, said to be handed the draft submission at such short notice was not acceptable and he would have preferred to have had the opportunity to get it a day in advance to examine the figures, etc. On that basis, he would not be voting for it.
Following the discussions, it was then
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
“Proposed submission by the elected members on the Consultation on Draft Ministerial Direction in the matter of Section 31 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
As stated in the special council meeting on the 30th September 2024 the elected members outlined errors in tables 3.2 Core Strategy Table and 5.2 Housing Demand. The errors were proposed to be changed at this meeting, but the members were informed this would not be a minor amendment. These errors do not change the quantum of zoned land proposed by the elected members at this meeting or previous meetings and correcting them alone is minor in nature. Correcting them alone does not result in a major amendment or additional zoning as it just reduces the % of additional provision available.
The proposed zoning amendments can be taken on an individual site-by-site basis, as proposed by the members, and the correction of the figures would facilitate the capacity for additional provision for which these zonings provide. Considering these proposed zoning amendments had already undergone public consultation, the consideration of whether to accept or reject them was the question at hand. The intention of the correction is that there is a clear justification for the additional zoning amendments proposed by the elected members as they are accounted for as additional provision.
As such the proposed submission, which was reluctantly withdrawn when put forward as an amendment on 30th September 2024, is hereby submitted as support and justification for the proposed zoning amendments as part of the public consultation process.
Item 1
It is essential to understand that these are actual errors and are not subjective or open to interpretation. The final Adjusted Total Plan Demand above feeds into Column 3 of Table 3.2 which shows quantum of zoned lands for each settlement. A mistake in Table 5.2 will lead to a mistake in the quantum of housing units required in Table 3.2 to meet demand.
These errors are as follows:
- Row B is a total of actual housing supply for years 2017-22 and an estimated figure for year 2023 & Q1/Q2 2024. These figures are:
- 940 (Years 2017 – 2022)
- 157.9 (yearly average for 2023 and Q1/Q2 2024, calculated as 940/6 = 157.9. Therefore 1.5 years is 235)
- = 1,175
- Row C should use the latest Homeless Report figure & 2016 Census Unmet Demand figure. The May 2024 Homeless Report[1] identifies 90 units for Sligo & the Census 2016 Unmet Demand is 9 units. This is a total of 99 units, compared to the now outdated figure of 59 in Table 5.2.
- The largest mistake occurs at Row E1. The actual 2017-19 housing supply of 418[2] units per the official HNDA Tool[3] is subtracted twice, once at row E1 and again at E4.
- Finally, row E2 uses a figure of 1315 for Projected Household Demand 2027 to Q2 2030 when the official HNDA Tool figure is 1438.
[2] Table 7 of the Sligo County Development Plan 2024 – 2030 Housing Strategy,
https://consult.sligococo.ie/sites/default/files/Housing%20Strategy%202023%20%28final%29%20-%2024%20August%202023.pdf
[3] https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/eaa99-housing-need-and-demand-assessment-hnda/
Overall based on the above, this sums to a cumulative underestimate of demand of 542 units. The adjusted total demand should read as 4,571 as opposed to 4,029
Item 2
As CDP did not commence until the 11th of November 2024 and not July 1st as initially intended, another Quarter’s undersupply should be included for July-Sept. The projected supply was 168 (4029/6 years/4 quarters) but the actual supply was only 40 (CSO Q3 figures 2024) leaving an additional undersupply of 128 units. This increases the total demand from 4,571 to 4,699.
It is essential that these errors are correct in Table 5.2, and feed into the housing allocation figures in Table 3.2.
Item 3
A rise of 1,560 people, on the original targeted population uplift, as outlined by NWRA at a household size of 2.6 persons requires 600 additional housing units, not the 137 units allocated. This leaves a 463-unit shortfall. This increases the total demand from 4,699 to 5,162.
These 3 items combined result in a demand for 1,133 units (5,162 – 4,029). At the average of 30 units per hectare (2024-2030 CDP average), these units require 37.76 ha of additional zoned land which provides the justification for the proposed residential zoning amendments by the elected members.”
[1] Table 7 of the Sligo County Development Plan 2024 – 2030 Housing Strategy, https://consult.sligococo.ie/sites/default/files/Housing%20Strategy%202023%20%28final%29%20-%2024%20August%202023.pdf
[2] https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/eaa99-housing-need-and-demand-assessment-hnda/
A vote was called with the following result:
FOR Councillors Brennan, Gallagher, Gilroy, Mulvey, Queenan, Taylor and Walsh (7)
AGAINST Councillors Bree, Cosgrove and O’Boyle (3)
ABSENT Councillors Casserly, Clarke, Gibbons, Healy, MacSharry, T., McSharry, E., Mullaney and Nealon (8)
The Cathaoirleach deemed the resolution CARRIED.
DISCUSSIONS ON AGENDA ITEMS RESUMED:
Members returned to items listed on the Ordinary Meeting agenda at 11.47 a.m.
29. AVAILABILITY OF CAR PARKING SPACES IN SLIGO TOWN
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to detail what car-parking spaces (they are in charge) are available today with locations of same and what car-parking places they envisage will or will not be available into the future, and what car-parking spaces (they were in charge) were available and locations of same in 2019.”
Ms. Concannon circulated a report to the Members detailing the location of approximately 2,481 public car parking spaces in the Sligo Urban Area (1,182 spaces in public car parks and 1,299 on-street parking spaces).
The main changes since 2019 were as follows:
- Stephen Street car park had been transformed into Queen Maeve Square and had resulted in a loss of 68 no. parking spaces and
- Car parks surrounding County Hall, Riverside were added under the 2024 Car Park Bye Laws and had resulted in the addition of 176 no. “Pay and display” parking spaces.
Members were further advised that any future projects in the Sligo Urban area would examine the creation or loss of car parking on a case-by-case basis.
30. PLANNING PERMSSION FOR VETERINARY LABORATORY IN DOONALLY
Proposed by Councillor L. Brennan
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this council write to the Office of Public works and request that they apply for planning permission for the new Regional Veterinary Lab at Doonally in conjunction with the application for the other Regional Veterinary Lab in Kilkenny so that both projects can be delivered simultaneously.”
31. PLANNING FOR NEW SCHOOLS AND EXTENSIONS FOR EXISTING SCHOOLS
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“With the increased population planned over the life of the new county development plan it is vital that we plan for new Schools and extension of existing Schools across the county.
With this in mind, can the executive confirm what applications or preplanning (if any) has taken place with Primary and Post Primary Schools across the county or the department of education or ETB with a view to providing such additional required school space. Please list any if applicable.
In line with this we write to the Minister for Education to instruct officials to begin consultation with this council about developing the required primary and post primary buildings to meet our planned population growth.”
A report was circulated to the Members advising them that Section 27.2 of the new County Development Plan includes several policies to ensure that education facilities can be provided to meet current and future requirements and examples of those were given.
The Department of Education and Skills had made submissions at each public consultation stage in the process to provide constructive observations on the content of the plan, with regard to future educational requirements.
There were no current planning applications relating to primary or post primary schools with the planning authority.
Councillor Gilroy outlined the background to the listing of this motion and agreed with comments from Councillor E. McSharry. It was agreed that a reference to provision of modular buildings as an interim measure would also be included in the correspondence being forwarded to the Minister.
ADJOURNMENT:
The Meeting adjourned at 12.20 p.m. and resumed at 12.50 p.m.
32. TEACHER-PUPIL RATIO IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To call on the incoming Minister for Education to examine and review the primary staffing schedule (teacher/pupil ratios) and the funding model for primary schools as a matter of urgency. That this motion be relayed to all 4 Sligo Leitrim Deputies, and the Minister for Education.”
33. UPDATE ON CLEVERAGH REGIONAL PARK MASTERPLAN
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on the Cleveragh Regional Park masterplan and outline the prospective planning process timelines for the skate park, pump track, car parking, basketball courts, learn to cycle and Muga courts.”
Ms. Concannon reported to the Members that a Masterplan was adopted by the Council in 2008. Significant elements of that plan had been delivered, including playing pitches, walking trails and car parking. Emergent additional recreational opportunities for the parkland had been identified warranting revision to elements of the plan.
Progression of the proposed recreational additions to the park require the carrying out of relevant screening assessments and submission of a Part 8 Planning application in 2025. Funding would be required thereafter to progress construction.
ITEMS 34, 35 AND 37
As Councillor Nealon was not present at the meeting, the Cathaoirleach consented to defer items 34, 35 and 37 to the Agenda of the January Plenary Meeting
35. ALLOCATION OF PITCH TO COOLERA-STRANDHILL G.A.A./L.G.F.A. AND CAMOGIE CLUB
“That this Council allocates a Council pitch to Coolera Strandhill GAA/LGFA/ Camogie club for use from April to September. Ideally the pitch should be inside the Coolera Strandhill area, or if not, then as close as possible to our area with adequate parking and toilet facilities.”
35. PROVISION OF BUS SERVICE BETWEEN RANSBORO AND STRANDHILL VILLAGE
“That this Council requests the NTA to provide a link bus service between Ransboro and Strandhill village, so that those living in the area can connect with existing bus routes (S2 and route 981).
The 981 from Coolaney through town out to I.T/Hospital and St. Angela’s is the busiest local links in country, carrying over 3.1k passengers per week- extending the loop through Strandhill or providing a connecting service would not only be a huge benefit allowing the aging population in the Knocknarea peninsula to access GP and other services but also there are many school kids here with no school bus route to either Ransboro or Strandhill schools.”
37. INCREASED COST OF BUSINESS GRANT
“Requesting an update from Sligo Co. Co. on the plan for efficient delivery of the increased cost of business grant.”
38. NATIONAL BAN ON GOLD MINING
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
"In solidarity with our neighbours and colleagues in Leitrim County Council that Sligo County Council write to the Dept of Environment, Climate and Communications to demand a National Ban on Gold Mining".
39. MODIFICATIONS TO DRIVING TEST ROUTES
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council write to The Road Safey Authority to request that that the RSA Sligo Driving Test Routes be re-examined in Sligo particularly in Cloondara Estate in Ballisodare due to the volume of small children playing in the area. As a possible solution, could the ‘left reverse’ aspect of the Driving Test happen at the Test Centre either at the start or at the end of the driving test.”
40. PROVISION OF A WOMEN’S REFUGE
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
“Sligo County Council give an update on a long-awaited women's refuge.”
Mr. Molloy reported to the Members that Sligo County Council was continuing to work with CUAN to identify potential sites for a women’s refuge in Sligo. The physical requirements for such a facility are challenging to meet. However, several sites were being examined. A number of meetings had been held with CUAN to advance the project, the most recent being on 25th November, 2024.
In conclusion, Mr. Molloy confirmed that as soon as a preferred site was agreed, the Council would be informed.
ITEMS 41 AND 42
At the request of Councillor O’Boyle, and with the Cathaoirleach’s consent, items 41 and 42 were deferred to the agenda of the January Plenary meeting.
41. EXAM ARRANGEMENTS FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES
“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Education to grant students with learning disabilities extra time in second level state exams.”
42. REVIEW OF NO-FAULT EVICTIONS
“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Housing and put in place a stop on all no fault evictions.”
43. ERECTION OF SIGNAGE FROM LYME RESOURCE CENTRE
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“Noting that the Lyme Resource Centre will provide the Council with unobtrusive outdoor signage displaying a QR code to HSE Information, free of charge, for display in public areas, will the Council now erect the signage in suitable locations on a phased basis.”
Members were informed, in a report from Ms. Concannon, that Sligo County Council would erect the signs provided by the Lyme Resource Centre at the public parks and beaches in the county, on a phased basis and as resources allowed. The costings for this work had been circulated to the Members at the November Plenary meeting.
44. REFERRAL OF QUERIES FROM SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL TO THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Noting that the HSE has failed to respond to queries from Sligo County Council on numerous occasions in the recent past, this Council now resolves to address all future queries to the HSE, directly to the Minister for Health so as the Ministers office can act as a conduit and ensure that the Council is responded to in an efficient and respectful manner.”
45. HOUSING ADAPTATION WORKS FOR COUNCIL TENANTS
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That a report be provided indicating the number of valid applications received from Council tenants for housing adaptation works in 2022, 2023 and 2024, the estimated cost of the works involved, the number of those cases where the adaptation works have been completed and the number of those cases where work has yet to commence.”
Members had been provided with a detailed report setting out the details sought and this was noted.
46. PROTOCOL FOR TASKING OF RESCUE HELICOPTER
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the National Ambulance Service and the marine rescue coordination service to ensure that a protocol is in place to ensure the nearest Rescue Helicopter with advanced Paramedic staff is always tasked to emergencies. This motion relates to instances where the Ambulance Helicopter has been tasked to events in Sligo when advanced paramedics were at the helicopter base in Strandhill and could have been on site 30 minutes sooner.”
47. VOTES OF SYMPATHY
Votes of sympathy were recorded.
48. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS
Votes of congratulations were recorded.
49. CONFERENCES/TRAINING
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To approve the Conferences/Training events list.”
50. 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.
51. CORRESPONDENCE:
The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.
52. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
53. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
Retirement of Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
The Cathaoirleach noted that Director of Services, Ms. Dorothy Clarke, had announced her intention to retire from Sligo County Council at the end of 2024. In paying tribute to Dorothy, the Cathaoirleach said she had been a dedicated Local Government official since taking up employment with the Council in 1999. She had held important roles in critical areas of Housing, Human Resources, Corporate, Community, Tourism, Economic Development, Planning, Libraries and the Local Enterprise Office. Dorothy had commenced work with Leitrim County Council in 1984 and had given 40 years’ service to Local Government in Ireland.
On his own behalf and on behalf of the Members and communities, he thanked Dorothy for her service to the Council and Local Government and wished her well in the next chapter of her life.
On his own behalf and on behalf of the Fine Gael Party, Councillor Walsh wished to be associated with the Cathaoirleach’s remarks and wished Ms. Clarke good health in her future and was sure that she would not be idle. Since being elected in 2019, he had found Dorothy to be approachable, she had always listened and responded to queries. She was an exceptional public servant with Leitrim’s loss being Sligo’s gain. Dorothy had been responsible for the delivery of many projects, together with huge investment, in Sligo. The legacy she was leaving behind her should be acknowledged and, in particular, Queen Maeve Square.
Councillor Taylor wished to be associated with the tributes to Ms. Clarke and agreed that she would be missed from Sligo County Council. In her role during this time, she had treated the county equally. The Department she had led in Sligo County Council would also miss her and her vast knowledge. In concluding, he highlighted the way Ms. Clarke had always worked with Councillors. He was aware of this on a personal level and from witnessing her work with others. As Councillor Walsh had referred to, Members’ queries were always responded to and every effort made to find a solution. As had also been stated, Ms. Clarke had given great service to Sligo and her successor would find her a hard act to follow. She had made so many acquaintances and friends during her time in Sligo and he counted himself as one of those.
Councillor Gilroy added his good wishes to those of the previous speakers. He referred to detailed responses provided by Ms. Clarke to queries raised by Members, those replies were appreciated and he wished her the best for the future.
Further good wishes were extended by Councillor O’Boyle who said Dorothy had been an asset to Sligo and could look back on her work with pride. He had found her to be approachable, kind, knowledgeable and always at the end of the phone and wished her well in her retirement
In noting that Dorothy had been encouraging and supportive to newly elected Councillors, Councillor Cosgrove thanked her. Both their roles in community work were closely linked and she wished her the very best, noting that both her personality and style would be missed at meetings.
Councillor Brennan concurred with all the good wishes for Ms. Clarke on her retirement. Having met her earlier in 2024, he felt like he had known her for longer. The void she would leave following her 25 years in Sligo would be huge and wished her good luck in the new chapter of her life
Councillor Edel McSharry was also sad to see Dorothy go and said she would have loved to see her there to support new Councillors, as she had done since they were elected. Dorothy had been a friendly face, a help and a guide. Having reached Executive level in a local authority made her a role model for women in leadership. There was no doubt that she had worked extremely hard to get there. This was also obvious from how she reported to Members. Having been that role model to lots of other women, Councillor McSharry hoped that Dorothy would continue to support and mentor others in her retirement and wished her the very best and an enjoyable retirement.
In echoing previous comments Councillor Gallagher noted that, since the Local Elections in June 2024, nothing was deemed too big to ask by Dorothy. He recalled her familiarising them with the Sections and, all the time, did so with a bubbly attitude towards everything and everyone. He had also wished to have had more time to work with her.
The Chief Executive said he would only make brief comments at this time as there would be another opportunity to do so in January. The words he most associated with Dorothy were resilience and loyalty.
With that resilience she helped the organisation through some of its most difficult times in its history in recent years. Dorothy had been a great confidante and team mate to everybody around at that time to help the organisation through that process. That led him to the other word of loyalty, not only to the organisation but to the county. Dorothy had wanted to ensure that Sligo progressed at the pace that it should and fought for funding to get things done.
As he had mentioned at the outset, there would be a further opportunity to say goodbye to Dorothy in the new year but there was no doubt in his mind that she would be missed by both the organisation and the county.
While saying it was an emotional afternoon for her, Ms. Clarke thanked the Cathaoirleach and Members for their very kind words. She recounted having initially met Councillors Joe Leonard, Joe Queenan, Rosaleen O’Grady and the current Cathaoirleach, Declan Bree, followed in later years by Members elected during her 25 years in Sligo – years, which she had really enjoyed.
Dorothy had gained great satisfaction from working in the areas that she had the opportunity to work in from Housing to Economic Development, Planning to H.R. and Corporate, the Fire Service and I.T. Working with all of them meant that you learned something new. As had been referred to by the Chief Executive, Sligo County Council had been through a lot of highs and lows, recessions and good times and there had never been a lot of money available. Yet, the Council managed to find external funding. In acknowledging her relationship with the Members, she said she had got on very well with them. It was her hope, through her friendship with Councillor Taylor, that she might even get a ticket for another All-Ireland, as several Members had referred to her support of Mayo football in their tributes.
With the Members and Executive working together, she had always felt that they could achieve so much. The last few years had been some of the best times for Sligo because a lot had happened. Sligo and attitudes in the county had transformed. There was so much good and so much potential within the Council and county to grow and develop. She had really enjoyed the area of tourism development and the whole tourism marketing element over recent years. Dorothy said she was delighted to have had the opportunity of working in Sligo and to contributing to some of the good times Sligo had experienced.
In conclusion, Ms. Clarke paid tribute to her colleagues on the Management Team, previous County Managers and Chief Executives and other Directors of Services who had been a great support, together with great people she had worked with in the organisation. All of those had worked hard to develop Sligo to what it now was. Thanks were extended to the Cathaoirleach, Members, Chief Executive and she said that their kind words were nice to hear. Dorothy was delighted to have had the opportunity to work and make her home in Sligo and looked forward to visiting her other home in Mayo and the beach in Enniscrone, one of her favourite places.
Final Plenary Meeting
As this was the final Plenary Meeting of 2024, the Cathaoirleach took the opportunity to extend good wishes, a Happy Christmas and New Year to the Members of the Council and their families, the Chief Executive, staff and the Press. He noted that all were fortunate to live in an island of peace and would be thinking this Christmas of those who lived in other lands in the Middle East, Eastern Europe and other parts of the world experiencing conflict and war.
Cathaoirleach’s Awards
Members were reminded of the Cathaoirleach’s Awards event in recognition of voluntary groups and individuals in the community, due to take place on Wednesday, 11th December in County Hall.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 1.50 p.m.
Meeting Date 05/12/2024