Minutes 2025

Minutes of February Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00 am on Monday 10th February, 2025 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT: 

  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Brennan,
  • Councillor Casserly,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Gallagher,
  • Councillor Gibbons,
  • Councillor Gilroy (R),
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor MacSharry, T.,
  • Councillor McSharry, E.,
  • Councillor Mullaney,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor Nealon,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor Queenan,
  • Councillor Taylor 
  • Councillor Walsh

(R) = participated in the meeting remotely

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Director of Finance
  • Mr. Jim Molloy, Director of Services
  • Ms. Emer Concannon, Acting Director of Services
  • Mr. Dónal Tinney, Acting Director of Services
  • Mr. Conor McCann, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Ms. Patricia Keane, Acting County Librarian
  • Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
  • Ms. Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Laura Durkin, Clerical Officer
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

 Cathaoirleach, Councillor Declan Bree, presided.

 

SENATOR NESSA COSGROVE

Prior to commencing the formal business of the meeting, the Cathaoirleach said that Members were aware that their colleague, Nessa Cosgrove, had been elevated to the position of Senator and wished her luck in her term in Seanad Éireann.  While she had only been on Sligo County Council for a period of approximately seven months, she had made a very positive contribution and the Council’s loss was Seanad Éireann’s gain.  In conclusion, on his own behalf and on behalf of all present, he wished Nessa well and had no doubt that they would be working together, even though she would not be in the Chamber.  The Council always had a good relationship with Members of the Oireachtas, whether Dáil Deputies or members of the Seanad, and he hoped that the tradition would continue. 

The Cathaoirleach then afforded Senator Cosgrove an opportunity to speak to those present.  In thanking everyone, she said that she had really enjoyed her time on Sligo County Council and looked forward to working with the Members as she carried out her new role and that she would be doing everything she could to support Sligo.

 

FORMAT FOR MEETING

In noting that there was a lengthy agenda, the Cathaoirleach said that it was his intention, with the agreement of the Council, that the presentation (item 22 on the agenda) would be taken at the outset.  Following the conclusion of the presentation, the issue of the recent Storm Éowyn would be then dealt with as there were a significant number of notices of motion on the agenda relating to the storm.  This was agreed by the members.

 

22. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NETWORK (PPN) SLIGO PRESENTATION

Ms. Swift on behalf of the PPN Secretariat, thanked the Members for the opportunity to present at the meeting.  She outlined that some Members were already familiar with the PPN due to their participation on Committees.  They also attended various PPN events.  However, ten years on from the legislation setting up Public Participation Networks, there was potential to explore how representative democracy and participatory democracy could collaborate as sometimes they ran along parallel lines. 

“Sligo 2030 – one voice, one vision” offers several pointers for areas for collaboration. 

The current PPN membership is 663 member groups and, nationally, 24,000 member groups.

Ms. Swift proceeded to outline the structure and role of the Public Participation Network and directed Members to the website for Sligo PPN – www.sligoppn.com for anyone wishing to source detailed information.

In relation to collaborating and adding value, Ms. Swift spoke about

  • Covid 19 Community Call
  • Vision for community wellbeing
  • Community group insurance
  • Community transport forum
  • Engaging with local Democracy
  • Community Housing Papers
  • Navigating ordinary things
  • Disability and inclusion and
  • Community inventory
  • Supporting Sligo County Council to achieve targets and how the PPN were already working in tangent with them
  • Power to change – Ms. Swift said this was extremely interesting and referred to the Memorandum of Understanding between A.T.U. Sligo and the PPN. Details of this are available on a dedicated website – sligoppn.com/the-power-to-change
  • The PPN had been involved in the development of an inclusive guide to community participation
  • Some ideas the PPN had included Community outreach, Representatives Support, Housing symposium, County wide Street Feast in June and Regional training event had taken place recently.

The collaborative nature of their relationship with Sligo County Council was recognised.  However, it was felt that there was a role for a more formal relationship with the Executive.  She also outlined how the PPN’s submissions on the SPC Scheme appeared to lack feedback. 

In conclusion, Ms. Swift asked that their activities would be included in the next information sheet issued by the LECP Sligo (Local Economic and Community Plan) in relation to the Development of Sligo 2030 ‘One Voice One Vision’ as some of the PPN’s work linked with those goals. 

Ms. Swift thanked the Elected Members for their time and wished them a good meeting.

The Cathaoirleach asked that Ms. Swift might respond to any queries Members might have and Councillor Nealon, on behalf of the L.C.D.C. Committee, thanked Ms. Swift and the staff for both the presentation and the work they do.  In referring to the Participatory Democracy, he said he had worked on projects in Cork City and Fingal County Councils where they worked collaboratively.  The headline figure of 663 member groups was significant.  Members needed to do their bit as bureaucracy can seem impenetrable for marginalised groups in Sligo in terms of access to decision makers.  The fact that the PPN could communicate with 663 groups and over 24,000 members was something very powerful.  If there were issues with collaboration, he asked that Members and the Executive would reach out to the PPN to address the situation. 

Councillor Casserly thanked Ms. Swift and her Team and acknowledged the thousands of hours given by volunteers on the PPN and everyone who feeds into it.  It was important that this was recognised.  Practical and useful solutions had been provided which the Members had all been seeking.  Councillor Casserly referred to her recent notice of motion seeking a one stop shop for information in relation to health, social welfare, etc.  The fact that the PPN have a funding support page for the different events and a step by step easy to use guide is what people appreciate.  They understood the process of looking for funding, closing dates and application forms.  All that experience was being applied into supporting the new pages.  Reference was made to insurance supports where fundraising for insurance is really difficult for voluntary groups.  Particularly in the case of Tidy Towns and playground groups as there had not been a funding stream for insurance.  The successful Street Feast initiative was excellent for integrating people, e.g. families who had moved into the area and was creating new communities.

Ms. Swift thanked the Members for their comments and said she was conscious that there was a full agenda for the meeting.  If anyone else wished to contact the PPN, they were welcome to do so.

In remarking on points made by Councillor Nealon, the Cathaoirleach referred to the 663 member groups, composed of volunteers working in the community, representing thousands of volunteers.  Given the role of the PPN in terms of providing a link between the local authority and all those volunteers it was important, on behalf of the Council, that he acknowledged with thanks the voluntary work of so many people.  In noting what Ms. Swift felt were some shortcomings, it was hoped that they could be overcome in the coming year. 

 

FORMAT FOR MEETING

The Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he would now take some headed items to get matters such as Minutes of meetings dealt with and then would move on to the discussion on the notices of motion.

 

1. MINUTES OF CORPORATE POLICY GROUPS MEETINGS

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Corporate Policy Group (CPG) Meetings held on a) 9th September, 2024 and b) 4th November, 2024.”

 

2.  MINUTE OF MEETINGS OF SLIGO-DRUMCLIFF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of meetings of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District a) 29th October (Budget Meeting) and b) 29th October, 2024.”

 

3.  MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of meeting of the Municipal District of Ballymote-Tubbercurry held on 11th November, 2024.”

 

4. MINUTES OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETINGS

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Borough District of Sligo Municipal District meetings held on a) 18th November, 2024 and b) Special Meeting held on 9th December, 2024.”

NOTICES OF MOTION REGARDING STORM ÉOWYN ON 24TH JANUARY, 2025:

The Cathaoirleach referred to the significant number of notices of motion relating to this matter and listed them as follows:

Item 37 from Councillor B. Gallagher
Item 39 from Councillor G. Mullaney
Item 40 from Councillor T. Walsh
Item 42 from Councillor M. Clarke
Item 44 from Councillor P. Taylor
Item 45 from Councillor P. Taylor
Item 48 from Councillor E. McSharry
Item 54 from Councillor T. Healy
Item 59 from Councillor L. Brennan and
Item 62 from Councillor M. Casserly.

The Cathaoirleach felt that it was best to prioritise these items and deal with them at this time if that was agreeable to the Council.  Councillor Mullaney mentioned to the Cathaoirleach that Councillor Walsh was not present, and his motion was one of those included.  The Cathaoirleach confirmed that he had received apologies from Councillor Walsh who hoped to attend the meeting as soon as possible.  The Cathaoirleach then asked Members if they wished to leave the discussion until he arrived.  It was agreed to continue with the agenda and decide further on the discussion at a later time.

 

5.  MINUTES OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETING

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To note Minutes of Sligo County Council Audit Committee Meeting held on 20th November, 2024.”

 

6. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 13th January, 2025.”

 

7. DEVELOPMENT OF ACTIVE TRAVEL FACILITIES IN BALLYGAWLEY

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, having considered the Chief Executive’s Report prepared pursuant to Section 179 of Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) on the proposed development of Active Travel Facilities from Ballygawley Village to the Castledargan Resort, County Sligo, in the townlands of Ballydawley & Carrigeenboy (E.D Collooney), to include:

  • Remove existing roadside boundary and create new boundaries to facilitate the construction of a 2m wide footpath.
  • New road markings and traffic signage.
  • Remove the existing utility poles and overhead wires.
  • Provide and construct underground utility network.
  • Upgrade & extend existing surface water drainage network.
  • Provide new public lighting along the new footpath.
  • Provision of pedestrian crossing facilities in Ballygawley Village.
  • Provision of junction tightening measures at the junction of the R284 & R290, in Ballygawley.
  • Associated site development works & services.

approve the carrying out of the proposed development in accordance with the recommendation of the Chief Executive and subject to additional modifications agreed by resolution at this meeting and attached herewith.”

 

8. DEVELOPMENT OF ACTIVE TRAVEL FACILITIES IN COOLANEY

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council, having considered the Chief Executive’s Report prepared pursuant to Section 179 of Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) on the proposed development of Active Travel Facilities from Coolaney to Rockfield, County Sligo, in the townlands of Carrownacleigha & Shancough, to include:

  • Remove existing roadside boundary and create new boundaries to facilitate the construction of a 3m wide active travel facility.
  • New road markings and traffic signage.
  • Remove the existing utility poles and overhead wires.
  • Provide and construct underground utility network.
  • Upgrade & extend existing surface water drainage network.
  • Provide new public lighting along the length of the scheme.
  • Provision of pedestrian crossing facilities along the route.
  • Associated site development works & services.

approve the carrying out of the proposed development in accordance with the recommendation of the Chief Executive and subject to additional modifications agreed by resolution at this meeting and attached herewith.

 

9. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF LAND AT CULLAGH MORE TOWNLAND, CARNEY

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry

AND AGREED

“In accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001 the disposal of freehold interest in the ESB sub-station site and associated cable wayleaves to ESB Networks, (€1 nominal fee) subject to contract, is approved.”

 

10. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF DWELLING HOUSE AND LANDS AT ANNAGH, TOURLESTRANE

Proposed by Councillor B. Gallagher
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of dwelling house and lands at Annagh, Tourlestrane to Adrian McSteen and Grainne McSteen.”

 

11. DEVELOPMENT AT ST. FARNAN’S DRIVE, KNOCKACULLEEN TOWNLAND, DROMORE WEST

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To proceed with the proposed development at St. Farnan’s Drive, Knockaculleen Townland, Dromore West, Co. Sligo consisting of:
The construction of 18 no. new dwellings over 2 storeys, comprising 6 no. 1 bedroom apartments, 6 no. 2 bedroom houses, 4 no. 3 bedroom houses and 2 no. 4 bedroom houses and all associated site development works including site access, site boundaries, drainage, associated earthworks, roadworks, public open space, utilities and services connections, car parking and ancillary site  and landscaping works.
In accordance with the Chief Executive’s Report and pursuant to Section 179(3) and 179(4) of Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as Amended).”

 

12. DEVELOPMENT AT WOODLAND CRESCENT, ADERAVOHER TOWNLAND, EASKY

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To proceed with the proposed development at Woodland Crescent, Aderavoher Townland, Easky, Co. Sligo consisting of:

The construction of 8 no. new dwellings over 2 storeys, comprising 4 No. 1 bed apartments and 4 No. 2 bed houses and all associated site development works including site access, site boundaries, drainage, associated earthworks, roadworks and road junction realignment, public open space, utilities and services connections, car parking and ancillary site and landscaping works.

In accordance with the Chief Executive’s Report and pursuant to Section 179(3) and 179(4) of Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as Amended).”

 

13. SECTION 183 – DISPOSAL OF FREEHOLD INTEREST IN ESB SUB-STATION SITE – CAMROSS AND CARROWNANTY TOWNLANDS

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher

AND AGREED

“In accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001 the disposal of freehold interest in the ESB sub-station site and associated cable wayleaves to ESB Networks, (€1 nominal fee) subject to contract, is approved.”

 

14. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL CORPORATE PLAN 2024-2029

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To adopt Sligo County Council Corporate Plan 2024-2029.”

 

15. AUDIT COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2024

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“To note the Audit Committee Annual Report 2024.”

 

16. AUDIT COMMITTEE CHARTER 2024

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“To approve the Audit Committee Charter 2024.”

 

17. AUDIT COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME 2025

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“To approve the Audit Committee Work Programme  2025.”

 

18. REPORT OF ETHICS REGISTRAR

The Members noted the report of Ethics Registrar under Section 174(b) of the Local Government Act, 2001.

 

19. CREATIVE IRELAND OPEN CALL 2025

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“To note the recommendations of the Sligo County Council Culture and Creativity Team under the Sligo Creative Ireland Open Call 2025.”

 

20. DELEGATION TO ATTEND ST. PATRICK’S DAY ENGAGEMENTS IN NEW YORK

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher

AND AGREED

“That a delegation from Sligo County Council attend St. Patrick’s Day engagements in New York.”

 

21. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR JANUARY 2025

The Members agreed to note the Monthly Management Report for January 2025.

 

23. DRAFT AIR POLLUTION BILL

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“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.”

Following comments from Councillor Healy and Councillor Gibbons, Mr. Molloy stated that there may be a need for a re-think on some of the policies following Storm Eowyn.  However, they had to be cognisant too that the more particulates put into the air, it does cause problems, and the air had to be kept clear as much as possible.  The concerns raised would be addressed with the Department, partly as feedback from the storm but also through Housing policy.  A new Air Quality Action Plan is imminent and it was hoped to table it at a meeting of the Climate and Infrastructure S.P.C. There are targets which have to be achieved and the only way that could be changed is if the policies themselves change.   

In reply to further comments from Councillor Healy, the Director of Services reiterated that Sligo County Council will not be searching properties. 

 

24. EXAM ARRANGEMENTS FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Education to grant students with learning disabilities extra time in second level state exams.”

 

25. BAN ON NO-FAULT EVICTIONS

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Housing and put in place a stop on all no fault evictions.”

A vote was called on this item which resulted as follows:

FOR:    Councillors Bree, Gibbons, Healy and O’Boyle (4)
AGAINST:       Councillors Brennan, Gallagher, E. McSharry, Mullaney, Mulvey, Nealon and Taylor (7)
ABSTAINED:   Councillors Casserly, Clarke and Queenan (3)
ABSENT:         Councillors Gilroy, T. MacSharry and Walsh (3)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the motion LOST.

 

26. PROPOSAL TO INCREASE V.A.T. RATE ON ELECTRICITY COSTS

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“That this local authority calls on the government to desist from increasing the V.A.T. of 9% to 13.5% on electricity costs that is planned to come into effect from May 2025. A copy of this motion to be forwarded to all local authorities within the state.”

 

27. CARBON TAXES

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“That this local authority calls on the government to abolish any plans of introducing further Carbon Taxes for the foreseeable future. A copy of this motion to be forwarded to all local authorities within the state.”

 

28. REINSTATEMENT OF TENANT IN SITU SCHEME

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“That this local authority calls on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to reinstate the Tenant in Situ scheme and increase the financial threshold limit in line with the current housing market prices in County Sligo. A copy of this motion to be forwarded to all local authorities within the state.”

Mr. Murphy advised the meeting that this scheme was included in the Programme for Government and it was expected that it would be reinstated.  The allocation for Sligo County Council was awaited.  There had been approximately 25 Tenants in situ in 2024.  It had been a very successful scheme and would be welcomed.  There was no issue with prices in Sligo and the Department worked with Sligo County Council on a case-by-case basis for approvals.  The local authority had no control in cases where a landlord changed their mind at the last minute.  For Sligo, he reiterated that it had been very successful and they were hoping to get a similar number in 2025.  It had a benefit on the number of people ending up in Homeless Services and would be a welcome addition to the Council’s measures in 2025.

Councillor Gibbons welcomed the report from Mr. Murphy and hoped that it could even be expanded and availed of more.  In situations where income exceeded the limit for the Housing list but was insufficient to secure a loan, applicants could secure a local authority house.  While he would rather see the local authority build houses, this was a means to an end for some families.

 

29. HOME ADAPTION GRANTS

Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

“That this Council writes to the new Minister of Housing and Minister of Finance requesting an increase in the allocation of funding for home adaption grants.”

Following a discussion on this matter, Councillor Nealon agreed to revise the wording of his resolution and submit it to the Cathaoirleach.

 

30. REQUEST FOR BUS SERVICE FOR CALTRAGH, CARRAROE AND HINTERLAND

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry

AND AGREED

“To ask that Sligo County Council write to the NTA asking them to provide a new bus route servicing the Carraroe, it's hinterland and Caltragh area of Sligo town and to thank them for providing the new long awaited S3 Bus service.”

 

31. ASSISTANCE FOR RETAILERS TO DEAL WITH SHOPLIFTING, THEFT AND CRIME

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, T.D. to help Retailers with the frightening increase in shoplifting.

Shoplifting, theft, and crime figures are rising all the time among small businesses. It is not just the thefts that are concerning but the associated incidents, such as assaults, hateful comments being made to staff, and public order offences. A staggering 94% of Retailers have been impacted by shoplifting in the last year, a recent survey has found, also revealing that 100% of Retailers have faced some form of crime in the last 12 months, including shoplifting, violent robbery, and break-ins.

Retailers and SMEs are the backbone of our communities, yet they are facing unprecedented levels of crime that threaten their livelihoods.”

 

29. HOME ADAPTION GRANTS (Continued)

Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“That this Council writes to the new Minister for Housing and Minister for Finance requesting an increase in grant limits for the housing adaption grant for people with a disability from €40,000 to €60,000 in line with inflation in construction sector.”

 

32. INCLUSION OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ON EMERGENCY TELEPHONE LINES

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

AND AGREED

“That this Council would write to the new Minister for Mental Health and Older People seeking the inclusion of mental health services as part of the emergency 999/112 telephone services.”

 

33. NETWORK OF BUS SERVICES IN SLIGO TOWN

As Councillor Walsh was not present at this time, the Cathaoirleach agreed to defer this item until later in the meeting.

 

34. COMPULSORY HI-VIZ CLOTHING

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to write to the RSA (Road Safety Authority) and the Department of Transport calling on them to start the process whereby it must be compulsory to wear Hi Viz clothing if you are walking or cycling after dark on public roads. Serious injury or loss of life can be prevented by simply making oneself visible to motorists. From 2019 to 2023, 164 pedestrians died and 1,436 were seriously injured on our roads.”

 

RESOLUTIONS REGARDING STORM ÉOWYN

The Cathaoirleach advised the Members of the options open to them in terms of their discussions on the matter.  It was agreed that each item would be taken in turn with the proposer speaking on their item.  All other items on the agenda would be dealt with following the conclusion of the discussion.

The following items were then taken at this time – Items 37, 39, 42, 44, 45, 48, 54, 59 and 62.  A further resolution had been submitted by Councillor Queenan and this was also dealt with at this time. As Councillor Walsh was not present, item 40 was deferred until later in the meeting.

 

Agenda item 37

Proposed by Councillor B. Gallagher
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to contact the Taoiseach, Tanaiste, Minister for Agriculture and Uisce Éireann immediately regarding the below issues and put a plan in place that these cannot and will not happen again.

  1. For the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Martin Heydon to meet with all forestry owners throughout Ireland but especially in Connacht and that a law be put in place that each owner must now cut back the trees to a safe distance so that they will not fall down and take out power lines as what happened during storm Éowyn. Going forward no plantation should be allowed where power cables are running through it unless power cables would be either buried or re directed around the perimeter of the plantation a safe distance away form the plantation. Also that all trees along roadsides be cut down also. 
  2. It to be mandatory for Irish Water to have backup generators permanently fixed at every plant they look after and maintain throughout Ireland.”

 

Agenda item 39

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That this council request a presentation from the ESB Networks on how they propose to upgrade the network to a standard where it will withstand a severe storm.”

 

Agenda item 42

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“Given the widespread water and electricity failure and outage, causing severe hardship to older people and sick people depending on live supporting equipment. This Weather event was well flagged 2 weeks in advance and yet the Government failed to put a plan in place and refused to recall the Dail while the people suffered alone. I call on Sligo County Council to write to the Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD expressing the outrage of the People of Northwest, and look for answers, who will be held accountable for decay of the electricity and Water Network and will there be changes in top management, what action will be taken to reduce the impact of further weather events.

Given the widespread damage caused to property on farms and SME premises in the North west, I propose Sligo County council write to Minister Darragh Calleary to provide an emergency easy accessible humanitarian fund to carry out necessary emergency repairs.”

 

Agenda item 44. 

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“There have been several storms over the last two years (some of them listed below).  Experts tell us that these storms will be more frequent.  At this point our utility service providers should have the necessary arrangements in place to be storm ready.  Based on the last two storm events this does not seem to be the case.

 I call on Sligo County Council to request a report from the ESB, Eir, Coillte, Irish Water as follows as regards the area of County Sligo setting out:

  1. Contingency arrangements and plans that are in place to ensure as much as possible we have business continuity
  2. The state of readiness to deal with storm Éowyn.  This event was well flagged.  What arrangements were in place to ensure efforts to restore services could happen as quickly as possible.  In relation to the ESB why did we have to wait several days before crews from outside the country were engaged.  Please indicate exactly what date foreign crews were deployed in force to assist with the fallout from Storm Éowyn. 
  3. Report from Coillte in terms of their supports to the other utilities in restoring services.
  4. What arrangements were put in place by Irish Water to have back up power options in place to ensure business continuity.
  5. What survey works have been done to identify forested lands that were encroaching on power lines and Eir lines and what if anything was done to contact all the landowners where issues were identified.
  6. Are sufficient stocks of material in place so that they can be accessed quickly to fast-track emergency repairs.  Provide detailed report on replacement stock management system that is in place.
  7. How often is the ESB/Eir network assessed and surveyed to ensure for example cables and poles and other equipment are in good condition.  Provide report on such assessments carried out over the last two years.
  8. Was there a debrief of staff at national, regional, and local level to learn from storm Darragh.
  9. What mistakes were made in dealing with storm Darragh and Éowyn and how are these being captured at national, regional, and local level so that learnings can be taken from such mistakes.
  10. Provide report on plans to enhance or improve on each of the items listed in 1-8 above so that we can be better ready to deal with storms going forward.

Lastly, ESB, Eir, Coillte, Irish Water should present on the items listed above at the next meeting of this County Council.

That this motion be forwarded to the Minister and Secretary General for Housing, Local Government and Heritage of Ireland, the Minister and Secretary General at the Minister at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with Special Responsibility for Forestry, Horticulture and Farm Safety and the CEOs of ESB, Eir, Coillte, Irish Water.

List of storms in last two years (non-exhaustive)

2024: 21st January, 4th February, 15th April, 20th October, 25th October, 30th October, 23rd November and 6th December.
2025:  11th January and 24th January.”

 

Agenda item 45. 

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to contact the relevant departments to make grants available for homes and businesses to upgrade properties to include resources which will allow homes and businesses to use and alternative power sources during major weather outages and future storms. The upgrades should include conversion of electricity to generators etc to ensure fridges basic lighting and medical devices can continue to operate.”

 

Agenda item 48. 

Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council  write to the Minister of Health and the Minister of Social Protection Rural and community development to request that their departments collaboratively work together and set up a task force to develop actions plans in the event of electricity outages to ensure enough generators are available for  primary care health facilities, services and people living in the community who require health care services and interventions such as nebulisers , mobility hoists and other motorised equipment.”

 

Agenda item 54. 

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 funding available to install a number of generators in different hubs around the county and to make sure that these hubs are provided with the necessary supplies, food, and water and camping gas stoves in case of such storms occurring again.”

 

Agenda item 59. 

Proposed by Councillor L. Brennan
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“Following on from previous motions, I call on Sligo County Council to write to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) to demand that forestry corridor widths are widened to avoid the power outages caused by Storm Éowyn. I also ask that Sligo County Council seeks clarification of who is responsible for ensuring that these guidelines are maintained.”

 

Agenda item 62. 

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

The Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he had received a resolution from Councillor Queenan and this was also taken at this time.

 

REQUEST FOR MINISTER DARA CALLEARY TO ADDRESS SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“In the light of recent storms and devastating impacts on rural Ireland, we request that this Council invite Minister Dara Calleary to address a future Council meeting.”

 

ADJOURNMENT

Following the discussions on Storm Éowyn, the meeting was adjourned at 12.45 p.m. and resumed at 1.15 p.m.

As items 35 and 58 both related to the Mica/Pyrite Redress Scheme, the Cathaoirleach dealt with both items at this time.

 

Agenda item 35

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor L. Brennan

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update on the defective concrete block scheme which now has included Sligo.

Can you please answer the following questions in relation to this –

  • Has Sligo been given the resources and staff and necessary funding to set up the scheme in Sligo?
  • Time frame for when households can make an application?
  • Time for the process of the application?
  • How will the grouping work for example?
  • Demolishment, outer leaf of block work or any other work 
  • When will Sligo County Council hold a meeting to inform anyone affected by pyrite in Sligo and how the scheme will work?”

 

Agenda item 58

Proposed by Councillor L. Brennan
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“I ask Sligo County Council for an update on the mica and pyrite redress scheme for affected homeowners in County Sligo, with clarification on how and when applications can be made.”

The Members had been furnished with reports from Ms. Concannon outlining the current situation

We are currently developing an IT system to enable applicants apply to Sligo County Council and we expect it will be up and running within 3-4 weeks.  A webpage will be created on the Council website to explain the documents and reports required to be submitted in support of the application.

The grant scheme covers 100% of the costs of the remediation works approved subject to an overall grant cap of €462,000.

There are five remedial options available under the grant scheme ranging from complete demolition and rebuild to rebuilding the outer leaf of affected walls only.  The specific amount granted will vary from home to home depending on the determination by the Housing Agency of the appropriate remediation option.

Once the on-line application system is operational, we will then consider what further information sessions are necessary to assist people with the making of applications.

The funding necessary to set up and administer the scheme, and the recruitment of additional staff, will be made available by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

 

33. NETWORK OF BUS SERVICES IN SLIGO TOWN

This item listed by Councillor Walsh, which had been deferred earlier in the meeting, was taken at this time.

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“Following correspondence issued from the National Transport Authority on 6th October 2023 where I was advised “The Authority is also at an advanced stage in progressing revisions to the network of town bus service within Sligo Town. Carraroe Retail Park will be served by one of the routes within the revised network and details of this will be available soon. Implementation is planned for early in 2024”,

That Sligo County Council request the NTA to meet with this Council and ask 1. Why only partial of the planned new S3 route has been implemented? and 2. When will the revision and additions to S1 and S2 take place to service the Carraroe and Caltragh area in Sligo town.

Furthermore, that this motion be relayed to the Minister for Transport and the Secretary General at the Department of Transport.”

 

36. UPDATE ON SCHEMES EXPECTED TO PROGRESS IN 2025

At the request of Councillor Walsh, the following motion was deferred to the agenda of the March Ordinary meeting:

“That Sligo County Council gives an update on all medium to large scale schemes expected to progress in 2025 and associated timeline for same.”

 

38. INPUT INTO PLANNING APPLICATIONS BY MEMBERS AND PUBLIC

Proposed by Councillor B. Gallagher
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

“To call on this Government and the OPR to give the elected members of each County & City Council more input and say into planning applications submitted within their county.

For anyone to object to a planning permission in a county they would have to be living in the area of the development looking for planning and also a fee of €250 would have to be paid.”

Ms. Concannon had reported to the Members that in accordance with the provisions of Art. 168 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), the fee for the making of a submission on a planning application does not apply to a member of a local authority acting in his or her capacity as such member.

With regard to third party objections, the statutory fee of €20 is prescribed by the Planning Regulations and there is currently no restriction on who may make such submissions on a planning application.

Following comments from Councillors Gallagher, Taylor, Clarke and Walsh in support of the motion and difficulties being encountered with pre-planning, the Cathaoirleach indicated that he had a significant problem with part of the motion, i.e. the second paragraph.  He had always believed that the process of public consultation and participation in the planning process is important, as far as it is allowed. Part of this public process is to allow every citizen the right to make a submission on every planning application.  He outlined his understanding that the introduction of the fee to cover administration costs many years previously.  The motion on the agenda regarding the imposition of a fee of €250 to make a submission was penalising the vast majority of citizens and was out of order and he would not be voting for it.

Councillor Taylor said the problem with submissions was that they were being made repeatedly by the same people which he referred to as “serial objectors”.  Councillor Gallagher added that it was in rural Ireland he had the issue and said he could name the same six to eight people making submissions.  In some cases, this was delaying an application for a further three months.  It was his opinion that if someone had an issue with a planning application they would find the €250 to make their submission. 

The Chief Executive asked for Members to furnish specific examples to the Director of Services of where pre-planning had taken place and the information had not been passed through correctly or applicants were not given the advice required. He did not have a problem meeting in relation to Housing. 

He referred to the Development Plan process and stated that at no time during the process did the Members raise the issue of the criteria for Rural Housing.  He outlined that hours had been spent on discussing the zoning of various portions of land, but the actual wording of the policy was never commented on.  The Members had an opportunity at that time to question the wording.  He reiterated that he wanted to be supportive of people living within the county.  Therefore, if there are issues, the Executive needed to know and they would try and deal with them with the Members.  It is important that people who wished to live in Sligo could do so if they meet the criteria. 

In responding, Councillor Taylor agreed that the Chief Executive always made himself available to meet with the Elected Members on such matters.  During all the meetings which had taken place with the Members and the Planning staff, they had always discussed one-off rural housing.  In agreeing that the recent Development Plan had turned into a zoning issue, particularly towards the end of the discussions, he felt that it had always been said by Members that when applications are coming in for rural housing that they would be looked at in every way possible and that was not happening.

The Chief Executive again asked that Members would furnish the Director of Services, Ms. Concannon, and himself the relevant details.  Mr. Lydon confirmed that he already had one example which he was looking into with a Councillor.  If what was being said was right, the Executive would try to resolve the issue. 

Following further discussions and opinions raised on the matter of the fee payable to make a submission on a planning application, it was agreed to revise the wording of the resolution as follows

 

Proposed by Councillor B. Gallagher
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To call on this Government and the OPR to give the elected members of each County & City Council more input and say into planning applications submitted within their county.

For anyone to object to a planning permission in a county they would have to be living in the area of the development looking for planning and also a fee would be reviewed.”

 

40. REVIEW FOLLOWING STORM ÉOWYN

Councillor Walsh asked that this item would be deferred to the agenda of the March Ordinary Meeting:

“In light of the recent storm and red weather warning, the length of time it took for power to be restored to homes, water to return, access to be restored; Sligo County Council now requests that a full review be carried out by the authorities of 1. The preparedness of the agencies (ESB, EIR, Local Authorities, Coillte) for the storm and its aftermath, 2. How the agencies managed and coordinated activities 3. The learning from the event and 4. A report be commissioned to review our critical energy infrastructure in order to improve and safeguard it.

That this motion be relayed to the Minister, Secretary General at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the CEO of the ESB.”   

 

41. REQUEST FOR MINISTER FOR HOUSING TO ADDRESS SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

“Given that the Government has missed its housing target by 10,000 houses in CSO figures with just 30,330 delivered in 2024. Sligo missed target is one of the worst in Ireland. Mitchell McDermott Expert Construction Consultants expects national housing delivery to remain at 32,000 at most over the next three years, citing insufficient land zoned, Uisce Éireann failure to service land and Governments failure to bring forward a proper National Planning Framework policy. I call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Housing, James Browne T.D. to come to Sligo address the Council.”

 

43. QUERY TO UISCE ÉIREANN REGARDING MANGANESE RESULTS IN CORK WATER SUPPLY

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to Uisce Éireann in relation to the Water issue in Cork regarding manganese results. Has there been any concerns raised in consultation with the HSE whether consumers in Sligo are required to be notified.”

 

46. IMPLEMENTATION OF EVICTION BAN

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“It is evident now that this government is incapable of delivering its own yearly housing targets, and the number of families living in emergency accommodation is increasing by at least 16% per year with an estimated 4,000 children homeless in Ireland. I am once again calling on the Government to implement an eviction ban, only in cases where the Tenant are abiding with the letting contract, this would protect both Tenant and the landlord. A copy of this motion to be sent to all Council within the state.”

 

47. PENALTIES FOR SALE OF E-LIQUIDS, VAPE KITS OR NICOTINE PRODUCTS

Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

“This local authority calls on the government to initiate a fixed penalty fine of €10,000 on any retailer or person who sells or provides children under the age of 18 with e-liquids, vape kits, or nicotine-containing products.  A copy of this motion to be sent to all Council within the state.”

Following a discussion on this matter, a revised resolution was submitted to the meeting which was agreed as follows

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“That this local authority calls on the Government to initiate a fixed penalty fine of €10,000 on any retailer or person who sells or provides children under the age of 18 with e-liquids, vape kits or nicotine containing products.  To also ask that the HSE create an awareness campaign to highlight the dangers of vaping and to request a copy be sent to all Councils within the State.”

 

49. FUNDING FOR ROADS ON LOCAL LINK BUS ROUTES

Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Transport Climate Environment and Energy to request that the Department provide additional funding to Sligo County Council to ensure all roads (including local roads) on Local link bus routes are treated during inclement weather.”

 

50. RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION OF HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council write to the Minister of Health to request that at policy level initiatives are implemented to recruit and retain Nurses, Dentist, Doctors, Speech therapists, all other health care professionals to address shortages and inability to recruit staff into our health services.”

 

51. PROVISION OF SURGICAL HUB FOR SLIGO AND THE NORTHWEST

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“That this Council expresses its deep disappointment and concern at the failure of the new government to commit to the provision of a surgical hub for Sligo and the North-West, particularly taking into consideration that it has given a commitment in the Programme for Government to establishing six new surgical hubs nationwide (two in Dublin, one in Cork, one in Limerick, one in Waterford and one in Galway).” 

 

52. PROPOSED CYCLE LINK CONNECTING SLIGO TO CALRY AND A.T.U. ST. ANGELA’S

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“To ask if there is any indication as to when funding might be approved for the proposed new cycle link connecting the Sligo urban area with Calry and ATU St Angela’s.”

Mr. Molloy had reported to the Members that this project is currently at the Preliminary Design stage.

Once the preliminary design has been completed the project shall move to the stakeholder consultation in Q2 2025. We will then seek funding approval to advance the project.

 

53. ACCESSIBLE BEACHES IN COUNTY SLIGO

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with a report indicating (a) the beaches in the county which are currently wheelchair accessible and where beach wheelchairs are available (b) the proposals which the Council has to improve access to beaches for people with limited mobility in the current year.”

The Members had been advised by Mr. Molloy as follows:

(a) There are beach wheelchair & wheelchair mats available for both Enniscrone and Mullaghmore Beaches. The Beach Mats are laid out at start of season and taken in before the Winter, weather dependent. However there have been issues with high tides covering them, and they are bulky and difficult to manage. Wheelchair users can use their own wheelchairs on the mats.

Wheelchair users can also book a County Council wheelchair by completing an online booking form (at least 2 days in advance), the Environment Section then passes the booking info to the relevant key holder.

  • the Pier Head Hotel in Mullaghmore
  • or the Surf Sligo in Enniscrone.

The 1st beach in Rosses Point is accessible by a ramp.
Dunmoran and Streedagh have no suitable access at present.

(b) The year we will explore options to improve the access for people with limited mobility to both Dunmoran and Streedagh beaches.

 

56. PROCESSING OF ‘ACRES’ APPLICATIONS

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon

AND AGREED

“That the Council write to the Minister for Agriculture and request that urgent priority be given to the processing of ACRES applications where payment is late. In some cases, I am aware of delays of up to two years in receiving payments on foot of applications correctly made, which is not acceptable by any standards. And that the Council further ask that the Minister appoint an official in his Department to oversee not only the streamlining of the processing and payment of all farm payments but to initiate a culture of the use of common sense and normal language in respect of all interactions with the farming industry.”

 

55. SEARCH AND RESCUE AND H.E.M. (HELICOPTER EMERGENCY MEDICAL) SERVICES

Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To ask the Minister of Transport to confirm that the 24hr search and rescue and HEM service will be fully operational from its Sligo base by February 14th as per contract.”

 

57. MEDIA NOTICES RE. MAINTENANCE OF HEDGEROWS ALONG PUBLIC ROADS

Proposed by Councillor L. Brennan
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“I ask that Sligo County Council creates media and social media graphics that explicitly ask landowners/occupiers to maintain hedgerows along public roads and that similar explicit reminders are placed on local radio stations. Current graphics refer to the ‘Roads Act 1993’ and the responsibilities of landowners/occupiers is not clear enough for the general public.”

A report to the Members from Mr. Molloy, Director of Services had advised them that advertising of notices occurs every January and September online and in print media. Notices were placed in the Sligo Champion on January 29th & Sligo Weekender on 30th January. 

A copy of the notice was also furnished to the Members.

The Cathaoirleach added his support to the suggestion for the use of graphics rather than text only in some of the relevant advertisements.  The Council also had to be conscious of the level of literacy among the general public and people might just switch off from material available on social media. 

The Director of Services confirmed that a more graphical approach would be examined going forward.  If not ready for this session, it would be ready for the autumn. 

 

63. BAN ON CHIMNEYS IN NEW DWELLINGS

As Councillor Gilroy was not present at this time, the Cathaoirleach agreed to defer the following motion to the March Ordinary meeting agenda:

“Can Sligo County Council confirm if there is any planning permission or building regulation that bans chimneys from new dwellings.”

 

64.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY

Votes of sympathy were recorded.

 

65.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS

Votes of congratulations were recorded.

 

66. CONFERENCES/TRAINING

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons

AND AGREED

“To approve the Conferences/Training events list.”

 

67.  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.

 

68.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

The Cathaoirleach drew the Members’ attention to letter dated 31st January, 2025 from the Embassy of the State of Palestine, Dublin enclosing letter from the Acting Mayor of the Al-Bireh Municipality. 

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“That we welcome and acknowledge with thanks the correspondence from the Deputy Mayor of Al-Bireh and that we confirm and initiate the process of developing a town twinning relationship with Al-Bireh Municipality.”

Councillor Nealon confirmed that the matter would be brought before the next meeting of the Town Twinning Committee for consideration.  The Cathaoirleach noted that he had also received correspondence from Sicily and the Mayor of Crozon (regarding a visit in June).  Both matters would also be discussed at the Town Twinning meeting.

 

69.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No item was raised under this heading.

 

70.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

END OF MEETING:

The business of the Meeting concluded at 2.55 p.m.


Meeting Date 10/02/2025