Minutes 2025

Minutes of March Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00 am on Monday 3rd March, 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,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor Higgins*,
  • Councillor MacSharry, T.,
  • Councillor McSharry, E.,
  • Councillor Mullaney,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor Nealon,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor Queenan,
  • Councillor Taylor 
  • Councillor Walsh

*(Cllr. Higgins was co-opted as per item 2 below)

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
  • Ms. Marie Whelan, Director of Finance
  • Ms. Emer Concannon, Acting Director of Services
  • Mr. Dónal Tinney, Acting Director of Services
  • Mr. Paul O'Rourke, Acting Director of Services
  • Ms. Margaret McConnell, Senior Executive Officer
  • Mr. Aidan McCormack, Tourism Officer
  • Ms. Aisling Quinn, Festival and Events Co-Ordinator
  • Ms. Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
  • Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

 Cathaoirleach, Councillor Declan Bree, presided.

 

1. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL

Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 10th February, 2025.”

 

2. CO-OPTION OF ANN HIGGINS TO VACANT SEAT ARISING FROM THE ELECTION OF COUNCILLOR NESSA COSGROVE TO SEANAD ÉIREANN

The Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he had a proposal before him

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

AND AGREED

“To co-opt Ann Higgins to vacant seat arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

Councillor Gibbons welcomed Ann’s husband Martin, daughter Lianne, son Andrew and family to the Chamber.  He then welcomed members of the Labour Party and Senator Nessa Cosgrove who was also in attendance.  Councillor Gibbons spoke of Ann’s familiarity with politics as a daughter of the late Labour Councillor, Thomas Higgins, who had served on both Sligo Corporation and Sligo County Council from 1967 to 1991.  Thomas had been Mayor of Sligo on three occasions, a Freeman of the Borough and a staunch Trade Unionist.  Originating from Treacy Avenue, the Higgins family were very much to the forefront in the community.  Councillor Gibbons, therefore, had no doubt that Ann’s parents were looking down with pride to witness the youngest member of their family following in her dad’s footsteps.  He had no doubt, that Ann in her own right would be a very formidable Councillor with her life/work experience as Head of Tourism, Marketing and Sport in ATU Sligo.  He outlined his great sense of pride in nominating Ann, his friend and former neighbour, to be co-opted to the vacant Council seat arising from the election to the Seanad of Senator Nessa Cosgrove and he asked Members to support the nomination.

Councillor O’Boyle said he was delighted to second the co-option of Ann Higgins to Sligo County Council, taking the place of Senator Nessa Cosgrove.  This was a well-deserved appointment and a testament to her dedication, leadership and commitment to public service.  Her new role would be a continuation of the proud family legacy with her late Dad, Tommy Higgins, having been a respected Labour Councillor and former Mayor in 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.  His contributions to the community and tireless work for the people of Sligo undoubtedly laid a strong foundation for Ann’s journey in public service.  It was inspiring to see Ann carry forward the tradition of excellence and commitment to the betterment of the community with the possibility of her son, Andrew, also becoming involved. 

In her professional capacity as Head of Tourism, Marketing and Sport in ATU Sligo she had already demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision.  These skills would, undoubtedly, serve her well in her new role on the Council.  Her understanding of the local economy, particularly in the areas of Tourism and Sport will be invaluable as she works to address the needs and aspirations of the people of Sligo.  Councillor O’Boyle said he had no doubt that she would bring the same passion, integrity and dedication to Sligo County Council as she had in all her endeavours.  The appointment was a positive step forward for the community the Council serves.  He then extended his congratulations on the significant achievement and a marvellous day for her family, wished her every success in her new role and assured her of his help.

The Cathaoirleach said it gave him great pleasure to declare Ann Higgins co-opted as a Member of Sligo County Council.  All those present then gave Councillor Higgins a standing ovation on her appointment.

Given Ann’s experience as an academic as Head of Department for Tourism, Marketing and Sport, the Cathaoirleach said he had no doubt that she would make a significant contribution to the work of the Council in the years ahead.  As had been referenced, as the daughter of the late Councillor Tommy Higgins, she would be familiar with and aware of the heavy workload of a local public representative.

The Cathaoirleach said that, over the years, he had the privilege of serving with Tommy Higgins as a Member of Sligo County Council, Sligo Corporation and many other statutory authorities.  They had also worked together on numerous local campaigns and committees. Tommy had been extremely helpful to the Cathaoirleach, particularly in his early days in public life, providing him with advice and supporting him on many issues in both Council Chambers.  Tommy had been a lifelong and committed Trade Unionist, always concerned for the rights of working people, their families and the marginalised.  The Cathaoirleach had no doubt that his daughter, Ann, would continue in his footsteps and spoke of the pride her parents would have on her taking the seat on Sligo County Council.  He congratulated Councillor Higgins and said he and looked forward to working alongside and with her.

The Members present said they wished to echo the tributes from the previous speakers in relation to the co-option of Councillor Ann Higgins.  They also wished Senator Cosgrove well in her new role. 

In response to the many comments, Councillor Higgins thanked the Cathaoirleach and said it was a very proud day for her and her family to have the Higgins name representing the Labour Party in the Chamber.  To be co-opted as a Member of Sligo County Council as a Labour Party Councillor was an honour and a privilege which had been bestowed upon her by the local branch.  This was one she took very seriously and was grateful for.  Thanks were extended to her fellow Councillors, Councillor Gibbons and Councillor O’Boyle for proposing and seconding the resolution to co-opt her onto Sligo County Council.  Their very kind and touching tributes were appreciated, and she knew that it would be felt by her family too.

Councillor Higgins said she looked forward to working with every one of her fellow Councillors and the staff of Sligo County Council to collectively work in the best interests of Sligo.  As had been said, that was what they were all there for.  Councillor Tom MacSharry had spoken of the “jerseys” being put to one side and she agreed that everyone should work together for the betterment of Sligo.  Members were assured that this was also her motivation.  Councillor Higgins was committed to being a public representative that placed the Labour Party values of integrity, respect, solidarity and inclusivity at the centre of all of her actions.  Her skills, expertise and passion would be brought to advance the future of Sligo.  This was to nurture local pride and build on existing excellent initiatives already in place.  It would foster a culture of stakeholder engagement and constructively address the challenges facing Sligo. By every metric it was an under resourced region.  For that reason, her priorities would be housing, health, transport infrastructure and tourism.

It was a fitting coincidence that the Council were joined by Students of ATU Sligo in the public gallery and she welcomed and acknowledged their presence. While her permanent role is Head of Department of Marketing, tourism and Sport at ATU Sligo, she was currently seconded to work as the ATU Sligo Integration Project Manager. 

As had been said by Councillor Edel McSharry, three legacy Institutes (GMIT, IT Sligo and Letterkenny IT) had been brought together to form one University in the region.  Councillor Higgins had worked very closely with Councillor Edel McSharry to advance the incorporation of St. Angela’s into the University.  The whole principle around establishing the ATU was to have a first-class University in Sligo and the wider region.  This would provide greater opportunities for all learners, of all ages and all backgrounds, to have a world class University experience on their doorstep without having to leave the region.  ATU Sligo acts as a key driver for regional development and is an anchor Institution.  Sligo was very fortunate to have several organisations on both sides of the Garavogue – Sligo County Council, ATU Sligo, St. Angela’s Sligo and Sligo University Hospital.  These organisations are filled with creative, talented and passionate staff.  It was important that this talent and drive was harnessed collectively to create a thriving Sligo within a thriving region. 

Councillor Higgins said that as she took up the seat vacated by Senator Nessa Cosgrove, who was present in the Chamber, she wished to extend her heartiest and sincere congratulations to Senator Cosgrove.  Sligo was very fortunate, as had been said, to have a Public Representative with her talent serving on a national platform.  With a specific focus on rural and community development, the Gaeltacht and Workers’ Rights, she looked forward to working collectively with the Senator to address the key challenges facing the people of Sligo and the wider region. 

In conclusion, she thanked her family who were present at the meeting – her husband Martin, children Lianne and Andrew, siblings Gerard and Adrienne and Gerard’s wife, Valerie.  Her brother Brian was joining via live stream from New York and her sister Marie in Dublin and her brother, Thomas. They had actively encouraged her to step up and honour the Higgins and Labour Party legacy.  It was her hope that she would make them and the people of Sligo proud.

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

AND AGREED

“To deal with items 3 to 11 on the agenda en bloc.”

 

3. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO CASUAL VACANCY ON BOARD OF HAWK’S WELL THEATRE

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on the Board of the Hawk’s Well Theatre arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

4. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO NORTHWEST REGIONAL DRUG & ALCOHOL TASK FORCE

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on Northwest Regional Drug & Alcohol Task Force arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

5. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO ATU SLIGO DRUG AND ALCOHOL COMMITTEE (REACT)

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on ATU Sligo Drug & Alcohol Committee (REACT) arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

6. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO SPC 4 PLACEMAKING

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on SPC 4 Placemaking arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

7. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO DISABILITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on Sligo County Council’s Disability Consultative Committee arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

8. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO SLIGO LOCAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (LCDC)

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on Sligo Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

9. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO SLIGO LOCAL TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE (LTACC)

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on Sligo Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee (LTACC) arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

10. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO CULTURE TEAM

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on the Culture Team arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

 

11. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER TO NORTHWEST HOMELESSNESS CONSULTATIVE FORUM

“To appoint Councillor Ann Higgins to fill the casual vacancy on Northwest Homelessness Consultative Forum arising from the election of Councillor Nessa Cosgrove to Seanad Éireann.”

The above appointments were unanimously agreed by the Members.

The Cathaoirleach advised the Meeting that Councillor Higgins would be replacing Senator Cosgrove on two further Committees - the Arts Assessment Panel and Sligo County Council’s PEACE Plus Partnership Committee.  This would occur at Municipal District level at their meeting in City Hall.

 

VISIT BY STUDENTS FROM ATU SLIGO

The Cathaoirleach added his welcome to the Sociology and Politics students from ATU Sligo in the public gallery and hoped that they would find the meeting of interest and benefit to them.

 

12. DRAFT FESTIVALS AND EVENTS STRATEGY FOR COUNTY SLIGO 2025-2029

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry

AND AGREED

“To consider and agree draft Festival & Events Strategy for County Sligo 2025-2029.”

Councillor Walsh noted that this was the first Festivals and Events Strategy in the county.  It had been sought for some time and had almost been completed prior to Covid.  It had effectively been rewritten.  While not perfect in terms of resources, it was a very welcome step.  He acknowledged the role of the Consultants, Bane Mullarkey and the staff of Sligo County Council involved.  There had been a great level of consultation and engagement with the sector over recent months. A lot of work had gone into the document, and he felt that the sector would warmly welcome its finalisation and adoption at the meeting.  It was hoped that it could be delivered over the coming years. 

In agreeing with the comments made, Councillor MacSharry noted that the Consultants had made an outstanding presentation to the Corporate Policy Group prior to this meeting.  It was worth noting that, out of all the local authorities in Ireland, Sligo was seen as one of the most progressive.  It was the eighth highest in terms of investment by Fáilte Ireland. This was a reflection on the great work that the team undertook locally.  He felt that this was something that would go from strength to strength with the numbers of events attracting tourists. Tourism is Sligo’s best asset and there was a lot to sell.

Councillor O’Boyle said he also wished to be associated with the Members’ comments.

 

13. PUBLIC LIGHT ENERGY RETROFIT SCHEME

Mr. O’Rourke outlined details of the scheme as per the report previously circulated to the Members and replied to queries raised.   It was then

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the raising of a loan of €4M in respect of the Public Lighting Energy Retrofit Scheme in Sligo.”

 

14. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2025

The Members noted the Monthly Management Report for February 2025.

 

15. UPDATE ON MEDIUM TO LARGE SCALE SCHEMES

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

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

The Members had been furnished a detailed report by Director of Services, Mr. Jim Molloy. 

Details in the response were covered under the following headings

  • Major national road realignment schemes
  • Minor national road realignment schemes
  • Sligo Borough road schemes
  • Greenway and active travel schemes
  • Active travel pathfinder
  • Pavement asset repair and renewal schemes (National roads)
  • National road safety improvement scheme
  • Urban regeneration development fund (URDF) schemes
  • THRIVE
  • Regeneration projects
  • Community centre investment fund and
  • Bus stop enhancement programme.

Further queries raised by Members were responded to by Ms. Concannon and Mr. O’Rourke.  In relation to the design of bus shelters, the Members were informed that Sligo County Council was not actively involved in the design.  Road safety audits had to be carried out and they had to achieve the standards set down. 

In terms of locations, as had been pointed out, it was not just a case of installing a bus shelter.  Consideration had to be given to adequate space for the shelter and they were then prioritised.  What was before the Members at the meeting was the list due for completion in 2025.  There was also a rolling programme for 2026 and 2027 containing additional bus shelters and TFI poles.  There could be reviews and recommendations forwarded to the NTA, if necessary.

In response to a query regarding the Public Realm Action Plan, Ms. Concannon confirmed that it was still on course to go to Tender for construction by the end of quarter one.

Councillor Walsh raised further queries and Mr. O’Rourke confirmed that the NTA were responsible for the designs in-house.  It appeared that they would also be contracting the work.  The local authority was only the conduit for managing it on the ground.  Therefore, any delays were with the NTA rather than Sligo County Council.  The information sought regarding costings was not available at the meeting, but he would revert to Members

Councillor Walsh suggested writing to the NTA as he was not happy with the pace of the rollout and to see if it could be expedited.  The installation of poles, he felt, was an overnight task. The local authority owned the footpaths and, in most cases, they are two metres wide.  This should facilitate at least one bus shelter in every town and village.

 

STORM ÉOWYN

The Cathaoirleach noted that items 16, 26, 29 and 41 on the agenda related to Storm Éowyn and agreed to take them together at this time:

16. REVIEW ON PREPAREDNESS OF AGENCIES FOR STORM ÉOWYN

Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“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.” 

 

26. LOSSES FOR FARMERS AND FORESTRY OWNERS DUE TO RECENT STORMS

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Forestry Michael Healy-Rae, T.D., and to the Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD, to address the crisis that has hit Irish farmers and small private forestry owners that have suffered catastrophic losses due to storm Darragh and Eowyn. Immediate action is required to ensure that those forests are cleared and restored to ensure Ireland continue to achieve climate action planation goals. The action required are. 1. Suspend all biomass imports. 2. A base floor price set. 3. All timber sold by volume price. 4. Suspend all clear-fell licence requirements. 5. As most forests affected are not at maturity, transport, harvesting and replanting needs substantial subsidisation. 6. 4 million tons of timber have to be taken out on to the road network in the Northwest. Government must provide funding to all local authorities to repair the damage this will cause to the road network.”

 

29. SPECIAL MEETING RE. STORM ÉOWYN

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to hold a special meeting requesting that the ESB, Eir, Coillte, & Uisce Éireann send a representative to address the concerns of this region affected by Storm Éowyn and to outline what emergency process they have now put in place and that Sligo County Council seek funding from the government for emergency hubs in the county.”

 

41. SUPPORT FOR STORM DAMAGED FARM BUILDINGS

Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Agriculture to request the setting up of a grant scheme to support storm damaged farm buildings as the humanitarian aid grant does not cover losses farmer have incurred.”

Further to matters raised at the February meeting and again at this time, the Members agreed to invite Representatives from the E.S.B., EIR, Coillte and Uisce Éireann to a Special Meeting of Sligo County Council.  To allow sufficient time for those agencies to arrange for attendance, this would be held on Monday, 26th May, 2025.

 

17. REGULAR COMPETENCY TEST FOR ALL DRIVERS

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

“That Sligo County Council write to the RSA and the Minister for Transport to ask that a regular competency test be but in place for all drivers to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads. Vehicles have required regular safety checks for many years, and it is now time for drivers to be regularly checked.”

Members had varying opinions on the implementation of the competency test, the timeframe involved and those it was applicable to.  Councillor Gilroy indicated that he would withdraw the motion from the current agenda and defer it to the April Ordinary meeting agenda for further consideration.

 

18. PLANNING PERMISSION FOR REMOVAL OF TREES ON PRIVATE LAND

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

AND AGREED

“Can Sligo County Council confirm if planning permission is required to cut down individual trees on private land and if so, what is the process of receiving such permission.”

Ms. Concannon, A/Director of Services, had advised the Members that generally, planning permission is not required to cut down trees on private land unless the retention of the tree(s) was required as a condition of a previous planning permission. 

However, subject to certain exemptions, a tree felling licence is required to be sought from the Forest Service prior to the felling of any tree.

Councillor Gilroy thanked Ms. Concannon for the report and welcomed the contents of same.

 

19. BUILDING REGULATIONS REGARDING CHIMNEYS ON NEW DWELLINGS

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

AND AGREED

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

Councillor Gilroy said that the response to his motion should be widely publicised.  Ms. Concannon had informed the Members that while the Building Regulations promote better energy efficiency in the building of all new dwellings, they do not contain a ban on the installation of chimneys.  The Planning Regulations do not contain any standards with regard to the construction of new homes.

Councillor Gilroy continued that new developments are not including a chimney in the houses.  This was a choice Developers made, based on costs.  The installation of a chimney in a new build is a personal choice and is not banned.

 

SLNCR GREENWAY

Two items on the agenda, 20 and 38, related to the SLNCR Greenway and the Cathaoirleach agreed to take both items at this point in the meeting.

20. REQUEST FOR REPORT ON SLNCR GREENWAY FROM COLLOONEY TO ENNISKILLEN

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide an update report on SLNCR Greenway from Collooney to Enniskillen.”

 

38. PROGRESS REPORT FOR SLIGO SLNCR GREENWAY

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council be provided with a progress report on the planned Sligo SLNCR Greenway, linking Sligo with Enniskillen.”

In response to items 20 and 38, Ms. Concannon had reported to the Members that this project is being progressed through Phase 2 Options Selection in accordance with Transport Infrastructure Irelands Project Management Guidelines.  An Emerging Preferred Route is expected to be published for public viewing and comment in Q2 2025.  The project which goes through the counties of Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan and Fermanagh is being led by Leitrim County Council.  Sligo County Council are providing the services of a Project Liaison Officer for the Sligo section of the route.

The Chief Executive advised the meeting that there was a meeting of Chief Executives involved in the project scheduled for later in the week.  Should any further information come to hand from that meeting, he would inform the Elected Members.

Further to that point, Councillor Walsh asked the Chief Executive to enquire about their Working Group/Steering Committee which was in place.  Councillors Walsh, Casserly and Healy represented Sligo County Council on that Group. It had not met in some time.  It was hoped that details of the next meeting could be provided to the Members.

 

21. FEASIBILITY STUDY – DEVELOPMENT OF RAIL LINE BETWEEN COLLOONEY AND CHARLESTOWN

Councillor Casserly sought the Cathaoirleach’s consent to defer this item to the April Ordinary Meeting agenda and this was agreed.

“That this Council requests the relevant government departments, including the Department of Transport, the National Transport Authority (NTA), and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), to commission a feasibility study on the development of a new rail line between Collooney and Charlestown along the proposed new N17 route.”

 

22. VACANT HOME MATCHMAKER SCHEME

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

“I ask Sligo County Council to establish a Vacant Home Matchmaker Scheme similar to other counties. 

The Matchmaker Scheme helps connect owners of vacant properties and potential buyers. The aim is to match vacant property homeowners who would like to sell their property with people who may want to purchase a vacant property.”

Ms. Concannon had reported to the Members that the Vacant Homes Team will consult with the other local authorities that have introduced such schemes to determine whether they will complement the existing Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme.

The Chief Executive confirmed that contact would be made with Mayo County Council regarding the scheme.  The scheme, which he felt was simplistic for such a complex issue, is in operation there.  They would ascertain from that local authority how successful it has been.  However, Members should bear in mind that when the Executive spoke with property owners, there were several different reasons why they were not selling.  They also could not put resources into that issue until a lot more was known.  Expectations should not be brought to a level where it was felt that the Council would be able to share data with people regarding individual properties.  This information, if publicly available, could be found through Land Registry.  The Chief Executive was unsure of the scheme being the success everyone felt it had been in other local authorities.  The Executive dealt with property owners all the time and found that the story behind each property differed.

In reply to further comments from Councillor Mulvey regarding the Vacant Homes Register, the Chief Executive said that rather than being seen to do something, the local authority had to do something. Sligo County Council was doing something, and the Members were then informed that 400 Croí Cónaithe grant applications were being processed. It was not possible to achieve something if engagement did not happen.  For anybody engaging with the Council in relation to the schemes available, work was happening.  It was up to each individual owner what they wished to do with their property.

 

23. ROUTE FOR SLIGO GREENWAY PROJECT

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

“That Sligo County Council support the Sligo Greenway project on whatever route is decided as a result of public consultation and the TII process as has been agreed by Sligo County Council over the past decade.”

The Members referred to previous discussions regarding the Greenway.  The Cathaoirleach advised the meeting that he had a concern about the notice of motion being in order.  The motion referred to the TII process.  There is, however, no such things as a “TII process”.  At the January Ordinary meeting, the Director of Services had advised the meeting that the Regional Design Office were reviewing the submissions from the public consultation process. Ms. Concannon had suggested that the Members would wait until the full report was completed, including all the submissions and consideration of them.  That would be available in the next couple of months, i.e. before the end of March.  The report had not yet been completed.  This meant that the County Council was now being asked to agree a report which had not been completed without anyone having read it.  The Cathaoirleach then asked how they could be expected to act in such a fashion.  The Cathaoirleach asked Councillor Mulvey to consider withdrawing the motion.

Further discussions followed with two proposals put forward

 

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

“That Sligo County Council consider supporting the Sligo Greenway project on whatever route is proposed following public consultation No. 3 as has been agreed by Sligo County Council over the past decade.”

 

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon

“That Sligo County Council support the Sligo Greenway project as has been agreed by Sligo County Council over the past decade.”

Councillor Gilroy indicated that he would withdraw the motion put forward by Councillor Clarke and himself.

At the conclusion of the discussion on the matter, it was

 

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council support the Sligo Greenway project as has been agreed by Sligo County Council over the past decade.”

Councillor Casserly asked to be recorded as dissenting from this resolution.

 

24. RESPONSIBILITY FOR BOUNDARY FENCES/WALLS IN HOUSING ESTATES

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update report on what level of funding is available to address boundary fence and walls in estate taken over or owned by the local authority who is responsible for carrying out this work as at present there is no clear indication who is responsible for this.”

Mr. Molloy had reported to the Members that the details relating to taking in charge of housing estates are contained in the Taking in Charge Policy of Sligo County Council.

The Housing Department is responsible for the maintenance of the boundaries between Local Authority owned housing, and in conjunction with the adjacent private property owner where the Local Authority property borders that private property.

The Roads Department is responsible for the maintenance of any road taken in charge. Where works are required on a boundary between Local Authority owned lands, this work is carried out by the Roads Department.

Where the road borders private property the proposed works are determined in conjunction with the adjacent private property owner. Funding is then sought, and works are carried out where funding is successfully secured. 

Mr. O’Rourke responded to further issues raised by the Members in this regard.

The Chief Executive advised the meeting that there is finite funding available and no funding available for this area.  However, as part of the Members’ 2026 budget discussions, they could divert funding if they wished to fund initiatives such as this.

The Cathaoirleach suggested that Councillor Healy might wish to put in a motion asking the Department to provide funding for this area.  Councillor Healy confirmed that he would do so at the April meeting.  Councillor Gilroy sought further clarification regarding ownership of a boundary, and this was clarified.

 

25. STRUCTURAL SURVEY ON ROOF OF SLIGO TRAIN STATION

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council writes to the Department of Transport and Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) requesting that a structural survey be conducted on the derelict roof at Sligo’s Seán Mac Diarmada Train Station. Furthermore, we urge that, based on the survey’s findings, the necessary funding be committed to facilitate the roof’s restoration, ensuring the preservation of this vital transport hub and historical landmark for the benefit of passengers, staff, and the wider community.”

 

ADJOURNMENT

The Meeting was adjourned at 12.30 p.m. and resumed at 1.00 p.m.

 

CABINS AND MODULE HOMES

As both item 27 and 28 related to this matter, they were taken together:

 

27. PLANNING LEGISLATION FOR CABINS AND MODULAR HOMES

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council support the proposal that Planning rules on cabins and modular homes in back gardens should be relaxed as part of efforts to tackle the housing crisis.

As it stands, extensions of up to 40sq/m to a home can be built without planning permission. However, approval must be sought if structures of the same size are not attached to the home itself.”

The Members had been advised by Ms. Concannon, regarding this matter, that it is important to balance the increasing of housing supply with the need to protect the residential amenities of neighbouring properties.

 

28. SUSPENSION OF ENFORCEMENT ACTION ON CABINS AND MODULAR HOMES

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

AND AGREED

“To call on Sligo County Council to suspend all enforcement action on cabins and modular homes on family property until the government bring it guidelines on exceptions on those developments, and that this Council write to Minister John Cummins T.D. to increase the exemption size from 40 sq. meters to 60 sq. meters for such exceptions.”

In relation to this motion, Ms. Concannon had informed the Members that the Enforcement section will await the publication of these planning guidelines / regulations before making any decisions on their implications for open enforcement files.

 

30. PROHIBITION OF USE OF COUNSELLING AND THERAPY NOTES

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Minister for Justice to immediately prohibit the use of counselling and therapy notes in all cases of gender-based violence. Survivors must be able to seek support without fear that their private records will be used against them. Protecting their confidentiality is essential for ensuring justice and safety.”

Councillor O’Boyle also added his support for this resolution.  After a discussion on the matter, it was further agreed to circulate a copy of the resolution to all local authorities.

 

31. RESPONSIBILITIES FOLLOWING DEPARTURE OF COUNTY VETERINARY INSPECTOR

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council give details of how, based on the movement of the County Veterinary Inspector to the Department of Agriculture, who will be responsible for issues regarding Wild Animals, Birds and Sea Creatures found dead within the Area of the Authority on either public or private property and how these will be dealt with and what out of hours service will be available to members of the public who may find dead, distressed or diseased creatures. 

That the members are also given details of what veterinary support will be given to the Dog Warden service within the county.”

Mr. Molloy had reported to the Elected Members that with the move of the Veterinary inspector to the Department of Agriculture, Sligo County Council are currently investigating what veterinary supports are required, and how best they can be procured.

In the meantime, the council will respond to each case as it presents itself, through the relevant Area Office. Issues on private property are a matter for the property owner. 

The Dog Warden Service is provided under contract and any veterinary supports required are sourced by the contractor. 

Councillor Gilroy referred to the report and complimented Conall Calleary on his recent advice and assistance, even though he had left Sligo County Council.  This is an important area of work, and he felt it may have to be revisited.

 

32. EXTENSION OF RENT PRESSURE ZONES

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council report on what impact the extension of rent pressure zones within the county will have on tenants within the added areas who are in existing long term rental properties. What effect it will have on existing short term (Airbnb) holiday rentals and any planned short term (Airbnb) rental properties.”

Having noted the contents of the report from Ms. Concannon which had advised the Members that a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) is a designated area where rents cannot be increased by more than general inflation, as recorded by the Harmonised Index of the Consumer Price (HICP), or by 2%, if inflation is higher.  This rent increase restriction applies to new and existing tenancies.

The Sligo-Strandhill Local Electoral Area has been designated as a rent pressure zone since December 2019.  On the 4th of December 2024, the rent pressure zone was extended to include the Local Electoral Area of Sligo-Drumcliff. 

Under the 2019 Planning Regulations, where a person owns a property in a rent pressure zone which is not their principal private residence and intends to let it for short-term letting purposes, s/he will be required to apply for a change of use planning permission unless the property already has a specific planning permission to be used for tourism or short-term letting purposes.  It is recommended that any person who is operating a short-term rental, or intends to operate one, within a rent pressure zone should contact the planning authority for advice on the planning requirements, Councillor Gilroy referred to the Sligo-Drumcliff area’s inclusion in the rent pressure zones.  It was his concern that many residents were not aware of that fact.

 

33. CONVERSION OF DOMESTIC DWELLINGS TO HEALTHCARE RESIDENTIAL UNITS

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council develop planning requirements for conversion of domestic dwellings to small scale HSE/Healthcare Residential units. These units are in reality a place of work where the HSE operates its services/business.

These premises would have in the region of 10 times the amount of traffic per day as a domestic dwelling causing increased traffic on roads not designed for such traffic numbers. The constant heavy traffic of delivery and service vehicles on unsuitable roads. The control of waste products where all these premises should not only have large commercial Domestic, Recycling and composting bins but would also have a requirement for clinical waste disposal.

The extra cost of upgrading the roads where these premises exist is having a major impact on the condition of roads and traffic numbers.”

Ms. Concannon had reported to the Members in reply to this motion.  The report had advised them that the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) set out various classes of development which do not require planning permission i.e. are exempted development.  Class 14(f) provides an exemption for the change of use of a dwellinghouse to use as a residence for persons with an intellectual or physical disability or mental illness and persons providing care for such persons.  The Regulations limits the number of persons with an intellectual or physical or mental illness living in any such residence shall not exceed 6 and the number of resident carers shall not exceed 2. 

It is not open to Sligo County Council to remove such a planning exemption which has been prescribed in national legislation.  It is also not possible for a planning authority to impose restrictions/requirements on the application of this exemption.

Councillor E. McSharry said she had a difficulty with the motion and referred to inclusion by community living.  Residents had been moved to congregational settings rather than living in Institutions.  People, therefore, had to travel to those homes to support them.  Councillor McSharry said she was, however, in agreement in terms of the state of the roads in those areas.

 

34. REQUEST FOR UPDATE ON TEXTILE BANKS

At the request of Councillor Healy, the Cathaoirleach had agreed to defer consideration of this matter to the agenda of the April Ordinary meeting:

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update on the textile banks throughout the county.

Where is Sligo County Council on the current tenant with the textile company and 

Is that company still going to continue the service as there are major changes coming in the textile industry.”

 

35. PROVISION OF FREE H.R.T.

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the government to fulfil their promise of free HRT for all.”

 

36. TREATMENT FOR PROSTATE CANCER

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council writes to the Minister for Health asking that they make the treatment called Pluvicto available to all patients with prostate cancer.”

 

37. BEREAVED PARTNERS PENSION BILL

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

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Government to

1. Publicly commit to fast-tracking and passing the Bereaved Partners Pension Bill within the first six months of the new Dáil
2. Ensure the Bill includes all cohabiting partners, with or without children, and provides backdated payments to eligible families.”

 

39. PROVISION OF MOORING FACILITIES AT INISHMURRAY ISLAND                       

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

AND AGREED

“To ask what progress, if any, has been made in regard to the provision of mooring facilities at Inishmurray Island.”

Having noted the contents of the report furnished to the Members by Mr. Molloy, Director of Services:

In 2022 Sligo County Council finalised a design for a new landing stage at Inishmurray Island. 

The development of this landing stage requires An Bord Pleanála (ABP) consent, as the Island is a designated Special Protection Area under the Birds Directive. 

In early 2023, at a meeting with OPW and NPWS officials, concerns were expressed that increasing visitor numbers to the island would affect birdlife. 

Concerns were also raised that increased visitors would raise the chances of either accidental or deliberate damage to the island’s monuments. 

The advice from these statutory bodies was that a formal application to An Bord Pleanála would not succeed.

Given that advice, Sligo County Council decided not to advance the project.

It was agreed to contact Minister Moran seeking his assistance on the matter.

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

AND AGREED

“That the Council write to Minister of State, Boxer Moran, T.D., requesting that the OPW consider applying a quota system to allow members of the public to visit Inishmurray Island using commercially operated boats.”

 

40. PROVISION BY E.S.B. OF DIRECT CONTACT FACILITIES FOR COUNCILLORS

Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council to write to the ESB and request that they set up a Councillors’ direct representative line so that Councillors can contact a local ESB agent to answer their queries on behalf of their constituents particularly during power outages. Similar to the representative phone line and email Uisce Éireann and NBI provide.”

 

42. PARKS DIVISION FOR SLIGO-DRUMCLIFFE AND BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Council executive why there is no parks division with a specific budget to maintain parks and housing estates for the towns and villages in the two Municipal districts of Sligo Drumcliffe and Ballymote Tubbercurry similar to the Parks division that maintains Sligo Strandhill Municipal district.”

 

43. STATISTICS FOR PLANNING PERMISSION IN COUNTY SLIGO FOR 2024

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

AND AGREED

“To ask this County Council how many new houses were granted planning in 2024, and how many commencement notices were received in the same year by this local authority. Are there any grounds for confidence that this local authority will see any significant improvement in relation to the supply of new homes in this county for 2025 and if so for what reasons.”

 

44. WAGE THRESHOLD FOR APPRENTICES

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor L. Brennan

AND AGREED

“As the minimum wage has increased to €13.50 per hour since January 1st, the Government should increase the wage threshold of apprentices from €7.41per hour to €10 for a 39-hour week.

Therefore, I call on the Minister of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to review the rates, to keep young apprentices in this economy instead of going abroad once qualified. Newly qualified apprentices should work within the Irish economy for a mandatory 2 years to kickstart our construction industry.”

Councillor Higgins asked to be recorded as dissenting.

 

45. RIGHT TO HOUSING

With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item was deferred by Councillor Gibbons to the April Ordinary meeting agenda.

“Noting that a home is a moral human right, this local authority calls on the Government to start the process to have the right to housing enshrined in the constitution.  A copy of this motion to be sent to all local authorities within the state.”

 

46. PROVISION OF SCHOOL PLACES FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS

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

AND AGREED

“That this local authority calls on the Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee, and the Irish Government to bring in legislation to ensure that every child with additional needs has a place in their local Primary and secondary school. A copy of this motion to be sent to all local authorities within the state.”

 

47. IRELAND’S MILITARY NEUTRALITY

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

“Cognisant of the exceptional and proud tradition members of our defence forces have played serving abroad as peacekeepers under the auspices of the U.N., this Council calls on the Government to ensure that all overseas operations will continue to be conducted in line with Ireland’s position of military neutrality and will be subject to the triple lock of U.N., Government and Dáil Eireann approval.”

The Members discussed this matter at length and a vote was called which resulted as follows:

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

and Queenan (7)

The Cathaoirleach deemed the motion LOST.

 

48. IRISH UNITY WEEK

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

AND AGREED

“That this local authority calls on the Government to have an “Irish Unity week” in the Republic of Ireland’s Oireachtas which would see MLAs and Northern Ireland senior politicians contributing to debates.”

 

49.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY

Votes of sympathy were recorded.

 

50.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS

Votes of congratulations were recorded.

 

51. CONFERENCES/TRAINING

The Members agreed to approve the Conferences/Training events list.

 

52.  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.

 

53.  CORRESPONDENCE:

The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.

 

54.  MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:

No item was raised under this heading.

 

55.  ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Arts Officer – Ms. Averyl Dooher

The Cathaoirleach advised the Members that there was an opportunity for the members of the Arts Assessment Committee to meet the new Arts Officer, Ms. Averyl Dooher, after the conclusion of the meeting.

 

END OF MEETING:

The business of the Meeting concluded at 2.50 p.m.


Meeting Date 03/03/2025