Minutes 2026
Minutes of July Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 10.00 am on Monday 6th July, 2026 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
Bree, Brennan, Casserly, Clarke, Gallagher, Gibbons, Gilroy, Healy, Higgins, Kilgannon, McSharry, Mullaney, Mulvey, Nealon, O’Boyle, Queenan, Taylor and Walsh®
® 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, Director of Services
Mr. Brían Flynn, Director of Services
Ms. Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
Ms. Sinéad Doherty, Asst. Staff Officer
Ms. Emma Horan, Clerical Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Dara Mulvey, presided.
1. DECLARATION OF INTERESTS / CONFLICT OF INTEREST
There were no conflicts of interest.
2. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
2.1 MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 8th June 2026”.
2.2 MINUTES OF STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE – HOUSING & GOVERNANCE (SPC 1)
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
“To note Minutes of meeting of SPC 1 Housing & Governance held on 11 March 2026”.
2.3 MINUTES OF TOWN TWINNING COMMITTEE
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To note Minutes of meetings of the Twinning Committee dated a) 24 November 2025 and b) 2 March 2026”.
2.4 MINUTES OF AUDIT COMMITTEE
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To note Minutes of the meeting of Sligo County Council’s Audit Committee dated 11th March 2026”.
3. HEADED ITEMS
3.1 UPDATE ON SPEED LIMIT REVIEW
Director of Services, Jim Molloy, advised Members that the draft proposed Speed Limit Review and associated Bye-Laws had been placed on public display. He explained that the current phase of the review relates to the reduction of speed limits from 50 km/h to 30 km/h in urban areas and confirmed that additional phases of the review would follow. Mr Molloy advised that the statutory public consultation period would run for one month following the public display, with the intention of bringing the proposals before the Council for consideration at the October meeting. He encouraged Members to review the proposals and raise any concerns or observations with him.
During the ensuing discussion, Members expressed concern that holding the statutory public consultation during August could result in lower levels of public engagement due to the holiday period. Councillor Gilroy proposed that the consultation instead take place in September.
In response, Mr Molloy advised that the consultation process and associated timelines are prescribed by statute and cannot be altered. Councillor Nealon sought clarification on the distinction between the statutory and non-statutory consultation processes. Mr Molloy confirmed that the August consultation constitutes the statutory consultation period but emphasised that all submissions received, whether during the statutory period or otherwise, would be reviewed and considered. He also clarified that no speed limit would be reduced directly from 100 km/h to 30 km/h and reiterated that the review is being undertaken in accordance with national legislation and Department of Transport guidelines, which Sligo County Council is required to follow. He assured Members that the Council would actively promote the consultation to maximise public awareness and participation.
Councillor Nealon initially indicated that he would second Councillor Gilroy's proposal if it enabled the consultation to take place during the school term, expressing concern that schools would be unable to participate during the summer holidays. Following further clarification from Mr Molloy that the statutory timelines could not be amended and that a later phase of the review would deal specifically with speed limits at schools, Councillor Nealon confirmed that he would not be seconding the proposal.
Councillor Gilroy acknowledged the clarification provided but expressed concern regarding the increasing use of temporary periodic speed limits, stating that, in his view, they were not being managed effectively. He advised that he would be dissenting.
3.2 UPDATE ON NEW ELECTORAL REGISTRATION SYSTEM
Ms. S. Branley provided an update on the new electoral registration system. The members welcomed the update provided and acknowledged the work undertaken by Sligo County Council staff.
3.3 DELEGATION TO ATTEND 75TH ALLGAU FESTIVAL WEEK IN KEMPTEN, GERMANY
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To approve delegation to attend the 75th Allgäu Festival Week in Kempten, Germany”.
3.4 APPOINTMENT TO THE LOCAL MUSIC EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP (LMEP) ADVISORY GROUP
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
“To consider the appointment of Councillor Fergal Nealon to the Local Music Education Partnership (LMEP) Advisory Group.
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
“To consider the appointment of Councillor Declan Bree to the Local Music Education Partnership (LMEP) Advisory Group.
3.5 DATE/VENUE FOR SEPTEMBER PLENARY MEETING
The members agreed that, should the retrofit works in the Council Chamber at County Hall overrun, the Council Plenary Meeting scheduled for 14 September 2026 would be held in either City Hall or Teach Laighne.
3.6 CAPITAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME LOAN
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“To approve in the form of a Capital Assistance Scheme Loan in the sum of €2,318,400.00 to Focus Housing Association CLG Ltd for the provision of 5 Turnkey units of housing accommodation at Mountain View, Kilboglashy, Ballisodare, Co. Sligo”.
Councillor Gilroy stated that he had no objection to this particular project but indicated that, going forward, he would dissent from any vote relating to the provision of housing by approved housing bodies, as he believed that such properties should instead be provided directly by Sligo County Council.
3.7 DISPOSAL OF FREEHOLD INTEREST IN THE ESB SUB-STATION SITE
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To consider and approve, 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, subject to contract at Pirn Mill Road, Sligo”.
3.8 DISPOSAL OF LAND AT BENSON COURT, CRANMORE
Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To consider and approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of land held by the Local Authority at Benson Court, Cranmore, Sligo to the ESB”.
3.9 DISPOSAL OF LAND AT ROBBERS LANE, MAUGHERABOY
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
AND AGREED
“To consider and approve, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of land held by the Local Authority at Robbers Lane, Maugheraboy, Sligo to the ESB”.
3.10 CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
AND AGREED
“To consider the Chief Executive’s Report and Recommendation to proceed with the proposed Social Housing Development at 39 High St., Magheraboy Td, Sligo, Co. Sligo pursuant to Section 179(3) and 179(4) of Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000”.
3.11 MANAGEMENT REPORT Q2 2026
The members noted the Management Report for Quarter 2 2026
4. NOTICES OF MOTION
Deferred:
None
New:
As Councillor Walsh was participating in the meeting remotely, the Cathaoirleach asked the members for permission to take Councillor Walsh's motions first, to which they agreed.
4.5 STREAMING OF GAA GAMES
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“This Council calls on the GAA to ensure that all inter-county senior football and hurling games from 2027 onwards are available for all to view on free-to-air television and, where required, through accessible online streaming platforms. Everyone should have the opportunity to watch their county team compete in the inter-county Championship.”
The motion received widespread support from the members.
4.7 SAFEGUARDS FOR EVENTS/FESTIVALS
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“Given the shocking and questionable way Oshi Software Limited T/A Tickets.ie has ceased trading over the June Bank Holiday 2026 and how it has left a number of events devastated by the monies they owe (Cowboys and Heroes, Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival and others) that this Council seeks the Minister at The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to urgently address what safeguards will be put in place in company law and legislatively to ensure this never happens again and that adequate safeguards are in place. Furthermore, that Sligo County Council writes to the Taoiseach, Tanaiste and Leader of the Independent Group, to ensure these events are supported by the state to ensure their continuation for 2027.
That this motion be copied to the 5 Oireachtas members in Sligo, Leitrim and every other Local Authority area”.
4.16 BUS STOP PROGRAMME
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“Following on from my motion in May, 2025, and in Jan, 2026, that Sligo County Council now give this Council an update on the Bus Stop Programme, the planned rollout in 2026 and in 2027, the identified location for shelters -v-T.F.I. poles and rationale for choosing shelters v poles at same and the expected timelines for delivery. Furthermore that this Council gives its projected expenditure on the programme for 2026.”
In response to the report circulated in advance of the meeting by the Director of Services, Jim Molloy, Councillor Walsh welcomed the progress outlined, noting that it was positive to see a plan now in place and confirmation that the €500,000 allocation would be spent during the current year.
However, Councillor Walsh highlighted that the report did not clearly specify the infrastructure to be installed at the designated locations. He requested greater transparency on the proposed works and asked that a detailed breakdown of the data arising from discussions with the NTA be provided.
Councillor Casserly seconded Councillor Walsh’s request, highlighting the length of time the process had taken and commenting that the involvement of multiple departments in relatively small county projects had contributed to delays.
In response, the Director of Services, Jim Molloy, confirmed that he would provide the requested information and circulate it to the Elected Members.
4.1 CAMPER/CARAVAN TOILET EMPYTING UNITS
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council seek to have designated camper and caravan toilet dump sites (Or Chemical disposal sites) available and clearly signposted at all campsites and other suitable locations to help ensure that these chemical toilets are properly disposed of and do not result in Portaloos at scenic locations being taken out of service by users using them to empty cartridges from Caravans and Campers”.
Councillor Gilroy thanked the Director of Services for the report circulated in advance of the meeting. While acknowledging that the matter was not a statutory responsibility of Sligo County Council and recognising the environmental constraints, he expressed the view that it would be of benefit to the county if the Council actively engaged with those that were in a position to provide these facilities.
4.2 EXPRESSWAY BUS BETWEEN BELFAST AND SLIGO
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“That this Council calls on Bus Éireann and the National Transport Authority to examine and introduce a direct Expressway bus service between Sligo and Belfast. Currently, passengers travelling from Sligo to Belfast must change buses in Enniskillen, resulting in long wait times and inconvenience for commuters, students, and other passengers. A direct service, like the existing Sligo to Derry route, would greatly improve connectivity between the northwest and Belfast, support economic and educational links, and provide a more accessible and sustainable public transport option for the growing number of people travelling between both cities”.
The motion received support from the members.
4.3 TREATMENT FOR VON HIPPEL-LINDAU (VHL) DISEASE
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“Notes that the Health Service Executive (HSE) is engaging in negotiations with Merck, Sharp & Dohme in relation to a treatment for Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease.
Recognises the serious and life-limiting nature of VHL disease and the urgent unmet medical need of patients in Ireland.
Calls on this Council to write to the Minister for Health and the HSE requesting them to ensure that the urgent clinical need for this treatment is fully recognised and prioritised in all ongoing negotiations and approval processes.
Calls on the HSE to expedite assessment and reimbursement processes to ensure timely access for eligible patients.
Requests a written update outlining the current status of negotiations and expected timeframe for patient access”.
During the discussion on the motion, Councillor Casserly requested permission to place the matter on the agenda for the Regional Health Forum’s September meeting. Councillor McSharry supported this proposal and also suggested that the issue be raised as a motion at the Forum’s next meeting. Councillor Mullaney welcomed the support expressed by his colleagues and thanked them for their willingness to bring the matter before the Regional Health Forum.
4.4 USE OF CHEMICAL HERBICIDES
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council reviews its current use of chemical herbicides, including glyphosate based products, for the control of weeds on streets, footpaths, public open spaces, parks and playgrounds, and that the Council actively considers and, where practicable, adopts natural and non-chemical alternatives (such as hot foam, hot water, steam and mechanical removal) in these areas, taking as templates the approaches already adopted by Dublin City Council, Cork City Council and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Furthermore, where the Council or its contractors continue to use chemical herbicides, that appropriate signage be erected at affected locations before and during spraying to inform members of the public, and that treated areas remain clearly identifiable for the recommended period after application”.
Councillor Nealon thanked the Director of Services, Jim Molloy, for the report circulated in advance of the meeting and welcomed the Council’s commitment to minimising the use of herbicides and pesticides across all operational activities. He acknowledged that hot water treatment and mechanical removal had already been trialled and that acetic acid was routinely used in public open spaces, where possible, commending the Council for the progress made in this area.
However, Councillor Nealon expressed concern that the report indicated herbicides would continue to be used in a controlled manner in certain areas and requested that their use be kept under regular review. While he accepted that erecting signage along many kilometres of roadway would be impractical and uneconomical, he suggested that signage should be provided in areas where the public congregate, including public amenities and residential locations. He proposed amending his motion to request that the Council adopt a proportionate signage protocol for such areas which was agreed by the meeting. Wording of amended motion read as follows:
“That Sligo County Council where chemical herbicides continue to be used, erects appropriate signage before and during spraying at amenity and recreational locations including parks, playgrounds, school environs, housing estates and all public open spaces and that the Council prioritises the rollout of non-chemical weed control alternatives at playgrounds and school areas as a first step. Also, the Council review the use of pesticides and herbicides on an annual basis.”
In response, the Director of Services, Jim Molloy, stated that the Council takes into account the nature and use of each area when determining the appropriate treatment and confirmed that the issue of signage could be considered. He added that the use of glyphosate is avoided, where possible, in areas frequented by children or animals, and that the Council would continue to explore alternative treatment methods and keep its practices under ongoing review.
4.6 SLIGO REFUGE CENTRE
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To request an update on the much-needed Refuge Centre for Sligo”.
The motion was widely supported, with a number of Councillors expressing concern at the length of time it is taking to identify a suitable site for a refuge centre.
In response, the Director of Services, Emer Concannon, reiterated that all stakeholders meet on a monthly basis to progress the establishment of a women’s refuge in Sligo. She explained that there are strict criteria governing the selection of a suitable site, including location, proximity to services and size. Ms Concannon outlined that Sligo County Council’s role is to assist in identifying potential sites and that it is not the decision-making authority in the process. She advised that the Housing Agency assesses the technical merits of proposed sites, while the Department is responsible for approving the associated funding.
Ms Concannon confirmed that there are a number of potential sites that Sligo County Council is putting forward for consideration by the stakeholder group. She expressed confidence that a suitable site would be identified while emphasising the complexity of the process and the role of the Council.
4.8 TAX BREAK FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS OF SECOND HAND HOMES
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Finance to give first time buyers of second- hand homes a tax break in Budget 2027. First time buyers should be exempt from paying stamp duty in order to knock thousands of euro off the cost of buying a second- hand home”.
This motion received broad support from the members.
4.9 RECOGNITION OF THE IRISH COUNTRYWOMEN’S ASSOCIATION (ICA)
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
“That Sligo County Council recognises the valuable contribution of the Irish Countrywomen's Association (ICA) and its local guilds in supporting community development, education, social inclusion and volunteerism, and calls on the Minister for Rural and Community Development to ensure that long-established grassroots organisations such as the ICA receive fair recognition and equitable access to funding and support programmes”.
During the discussion, Members in support of the motion highlighted the important role played by the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA) in society, particularly in rural Ireland.
4.10 REABLEMENT PROGRAM
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That this Council writes to the HSE requesting a rollout of the Reablement Program in Sligo”.
4.11 EVENT TO MARK THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF EVA GORE BOOTH
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council host an event to mark the 100th Anniversary of the death of Poet and Suffragette Eva Gore Booth”.
Councillor Gilroy thanked the Director of Services, Brían Flynn, for the report circulated ahead of the meeting and welcomed the planned event for September 2026.
4.12 PLUG IN SOLAR
Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this Council writes to Minister of the Environment Darragh O Brien calling on the government to introduce regulations to allow for the prompt deployment of plug in solar in residential properties across the country”.
4.13 INCREASE TO RAS/HAP PAYMENT LIMITS
Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this Council writes to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Brown calling on the Minister to include an increase to RAS/HAP payment limits as part of his department’s review on income thresholds for social housing supports and to develop a structured and frequent review process going forward to ensure that that the limits applied reflect current market and household income conditions”.
4.14 AUTOMATIC RETROFIT OF ALL COUNCIL OWNED OLDER HOUSING STOCK
Proposed by Councillor A. Higgins
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“This motion calls on Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Brown calling on the government to provide additional multiannual funding to Local Authorities to allow for an automatic retrofit of all council owned older housing stock, thereby removing the need for tenants to apply for inclusion in this scheme, while ensuring that all council owned housing stock are brought up to the most energy efficient standard”.
Whilst supporting the motion, Councillor McSharry suggested that an addendum be included to state that the retrofit would be voluntary and not automatic.
4.15 SAFETY AND RESTORATION WORKS AT THE TEELING MONUMENT, COLLOONEY
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council works alongside the newly formed Teeling Monument Restoration Committee to assist with the provision of funding towards the urgent safety and restoration works at the Teeling Monument, Collooney. Providing safe access and securing this nationally significant historical site and developing its potential as a visitor attraction for Collooney and the wider north-west."
A report circulated ahead of the meeting by Director of Services, Emer Concannon, welcomed the establishment of the Teeling Restoration Committee and recommended that the group seek the written support of the National Graves Association (the owners of the monument) and the registered private owner of the land on which the monument is situated to develop a scheme/management system to improve the monument. The report also outlined that funding for the scheme could be provided through the Heritage Council’s Community Heritage Grant Scheme.
4.17 TERMINATION OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONTRACTS WITHOUT PENALTY IF DISSATISFIED WITH SERVICE PROVIDED
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Communications and ComReg to introduce stronger consumer protection legislation to provide consumers with a statutory right to terminate telecommunications contracts without penalty where they are dissatisfied with the service provided”.
4.18 HIGH SPEED RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council calls on the Government to prioritise investment in modern, high speed rail infrastructure linking Sligo and the Wild Atlantic Way with Dublin and the other major cities and to accelerate the implementation of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review”.
Members expressed their support for the motion, noting that this is an issue which Councillors regularly raise.
As items 4.19, 4.23 and 4.26 all related to the same topic, the Cathaoirleach sought the consent of the Members to consider the three items together, which was agreed.
4.19 INISHMURRAY ISLAND
Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council would firmly commit to the future of Inish Murray Island. Define it in the Counties plan going forward and engage with all stakeholders”.
4.23 INNISHMURRAY ISLAND
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“To ask if any progress has been made in regard to the provision of mooring facilities at Inishmurray Island.”
4.26 INNISHMURRAY ISLAND
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to seek an update on access to Inish Murray”.
A report circulated prior to the meeting by Director of Services, Jim Molloy, outlined that Sligo County Council finalised a design for a new landing stage at Inishmurray Island in 2022. However, as the island is designated as a Special Protection Area under the Birds Directive, concerns were raised regarding the impact that increased visitor numbers would have on the birdlife and the island's archaeological monuments. The statutory bodies involved advised that a formal application to An Bord Pleanála would not be successful and, consequently, the decision was taken not to progress the project.
During the discussion, Councillor Bree, whilst acknowledging the concerns of the Office of Public Works (OPW) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) regarding the island's monastic heritage and its designation as a Special Protection Area, suggested that a compromise could be reached by capping visitor numbers and introducing a strict quota system for the local commercial boat operators. He suggested that this would protect the island while allowing safe, controlled access and requested that this proposal be formally put to the OPW and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
In the discussion that followed, it was highlighted that the island is privately owned and that Sligo County Council had invested significant time and funding in seeking a solution to progress the project. However, permission was not granted for the previously prepared plans.
In response, Director of Services, Jim Molloy, advised that any future progress would require a proposal from the Heritage Group, supported by the landowners, before engaging with the three Government Departments involved—the Office of Public Works, the Department of Housing, and the Department of Transport—to identify a suitable solution. He noted that the OPW requires access to the island and that the priority should be to assist in facilitating this. He concluded that any solution would require collaboration between the three Government Departments, Sligo County Council, the landowners, and the Heritage and Community Groups.
ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
The meeting was adjourned at 12.40 pm.
RESUMPTION OF MEETING
The meeting resumed at 1.15 pm.
4.20 SOCIAL HOUSING DELIVERY PLAN
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council's Housing Department provide Members with a report on the current status of the Council's social housing delivery programme in relation to the current number of vacant Council properties and those undergoing refurbishment to return them to use”.
Councillor McSharry welcomed the report circulated ahead of the meeting by Director of Services, Brían Flynn, and noted that it was encouraging to see the scale of work underway to increase the supply of social housing and the significant investment being made to address housing needs across the county. Councillor McSharry asked the Director of Services to advise on the average turnaround time for vacant properties, whether there was a particular stage where delays most commonly occurred and if any measures were being taken to reduce such delays. Councillor McSharry also asked the Director to outline how Sligo County Council planned to utilise the additional funding received through the National Voids Programme and implement the planned maintenance model, and what improvements were expected in the turnaround times for vacant homes.
Councillor Clarke, in support of the motion, welcomed the report and congratulated Mr Flynn on the delivery of homes. He also queried whether derelict sites and properties acquired through compulsory purchase orders were developed as housing stock or sold to developers.
Mr Brían Flynn responded to Councillor McSharry’s questions and advised that Sligo County Council’s current turnaround time was averaging 18–20 weeks. He outlined that the challenges being faced related to the availability of contractors required to undertake the works and that there could also be lengthy lead-in times for materials, with the delivery of doors and windows taking up to 8–10 weeks. Mr Flynn referred to Department Circular 08/2026, issued earlier this year, which placed significant emphasis on moving from a reactive maintenance approach to a planned maintenance approach in order to reduce turnaround times. Targets had been set for an 18-week turnaround time in 2027, reducing to 16 weeks in 2028, with the ultimate aim of achieving turnaround times of 12 weeks.
In response to Councillor Clarke’s query regarding derelict sites, Director of Services, Emer Concannon, advised that where sites were suitable for local authority housing, they would be retained and developed, and where they were not suitable, they would be put on the open market.
Councillor McSharry thanked the Director of Services for his response to her queries and acknowledged the positive move towards a planned maintenance approach. She also complimented the work being undertaken by the Director to meet current Government targets.
In response to Mr Flynn’s comments regarding the lack of availability of contractors to undertake works, Councillor Taylor queried whether the e-tendering platform on which contractors were required to register was always open for registration. Mr Flynn advised that it was and, in response to Councillor Taylor’s suggestion that greater awareness could be created around the platform, Mr Flynn suggested that information could be shared on social media.
4.21 SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON THE N17
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor B. Gallagher
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) seeking an update on any planned interim safety and maintenance improvement works on the existing N17 between Tubbercurry and Curry pending delivery of the proposed N17 upgrade.
The Council further requests that TII identify opportunities for interim measures including carriageway widening at constrained locations, pavement strengthening, edge strengthening, drainage improvements, resurfacing, enhanced road markings and other engineering works to improve road safety.
The Council also writes to the Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien TD, requesting that additional funding be made available for these interim improvement works, recognising the strategic importance of this section of the N17, the high volume of HGV traffic serving local businesses and industry, and the need to provide a safer route for all road users while the long-term N17 project progresses”.
In the discussion that followed in support of the motion, Councillor Gilroy sought clarification on what was included in the proposed 2026/2027 National Road Safety Improvement Programme. In response, Director of Services, Jim Molloy, agreed to forward the updated list to the Councillors.
Mr Molloy reiterated the contents of the report he circulated prior to the meeting and advised that eligibility for a safety improvement scheme was determined based on an assessment of collision data, road safety inspections and engineering evaluations undertaken by Road Safety Engineers on behalf of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). Locations are prioritised nationally based on the outcome of these assessments and the availability of funding. Mr Molloy advised that there was ongoing engagement with TII centrally to try to ensure sufficient funding to deliver all necessary improvements.
In response, Councillor McSharry queried whether a safety assessment had been carried out on this road and whether the Donegal Regional Design Office was responsible for putting proposals forward for funding, and if Sligo County Council had any input into this process. Mr Molloy clarified that the Donegal Regional Design Office was only responsible for the management of the white lines on this road, which was carried out in consultation with the other local authorities along the route.
Mr Molloy also advised that a safety audit would not be carried out on an entire road, but where incidents occurred, an assessment would be undertaken to determine whether engineering measures could be implemented to prevent future accidents or whether there was an underlying issue contributing to accidents. He advised that these safety assessments would be led locally through the Sligo Regional Design Office and asked that any areas of concern be submitted. Councillor McSharry suggested that an action arising should be to identify the areas where a safety audit was required.
Director of Services, Emer Concannon, interjected to advise that the safety schemes identified nationally were based on accident statistics. She explained that there was a relatively small national fund available for safety schemes and that very minor interventions were undertaken under these schemes. Where a more intensive intervention was required, it became a minor scheme, with these lists also being determined nationally.
Ms Concannon stated that there was a significant national list of minor schemes and, while there were locations on the N17 that Sligo County Council would like to put forward for a minor scheme, there were a significant number of locations nationally that would be ahead of them on the list. She advised that, therefore, Sligo County Council was focusing on the new N17, putting all available resources and funding into it, as this would provide the ultimate solution.
Ms Concannon also advised that the Regional Design Office in Sligo was in constant contact with TII regarding the needs identified by Sligo County Council and that these were reflected at every meeting with TII.
4.22 BABY LOSS RECOGNITION CERTIFICATE SCHEME
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Health to introduce a voluntary Baby Loss Recognition Certificate Scheme for parents who experience pregnancy loss before the current statutory threshold for stillbirth registration, recognising the profound grief experienced by families and ensuring equitable recognition across the island of Ireland”.
4.24 APPLICATIONS FROM COUNCIL TENANTS FOR HOUSING ADAPTATION WORKS
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That a report be provided indicating the number of valid applications received from Council tenants for housing adaptation works in 2023, 2024, 2025 and the first half of 2026, the estimated cost of the works involved, the number of those cases in each year where the adaptation works have been completed, the number of cases where work has yet to commence, and the funding allocation provided to the Council by the Department in 2023, 2024, 2025 and in 2026, to enable the Council to carry out such works.”
Councillor Bree welcomed the report issued ahead of the meeting by Director of Services, Brían Flynn, and noted the positive manner in which the Council was responding to Council tenants and households requiring housing adaptation works. He acknowledged the work undertaken by staff within the Housing Section in delivering the scheme.
Councillor Bree also highlighted the inadequate level of funding received from Government in relation to the scheme, which resulted in the Council being unable to facilitate all applicants, particularly those who are not Council tenants.
4.25 HOUSEHOLDS ON HOUSING WAITING LIST
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. ‘Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the Council be provided with a report on the number of households currently on the Housing Waiting list in each of the Municipal Districts; including a breakdown of the number of people in each household; the number of people in receipt of HAP: the number residing in RAS and other such accommodation; the number residing with family members; the number in emergency accommodation; the length households have been on the waiting list; and any other information which the Housing Department might consider relevant.”
In the discussion on the motion, Members thanked Director of Services, Brían Flynn, for the informative report circulated ahead of the meeting and highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the provision of social and affordable housing.
4.27 AIRLINE AND FERRY COMPANIES RETAINING DIGITAL COPIES OF PASSENGERS PASSPORTS
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
“Sligo County Council calls on this government to introduce legislation to ensure that all airline companies and all ferries retain digital copies of passengers Passports under GDPR to be available to the department of Justice”.
Following the discussion on the motion, during which a number of Councillors indicated that they would not support it, particularly in the absence of further clarity on the matter, Councillor Clarke requested permission to withdraw the motion.
The Cathaoirleach consulted the Standing Orders and confirmed that a proposer may withdraw a motion after it has been seconded and debated, provided a majority of the Members consent. As the majority agreed, the motion was withdrawn.
4.28 AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE CHILDCARE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
AND AGREED
“This Local authority calls on the Government to urgently deliver a comprehensive plan to make childcare genuinely affordable and accessible for all families, while ensuring fair pay, improved working conditions, and sustainable career pathways for the educators who are at the heart of the childcare sector.also This Council recognises that the high cost of childcare places significant financial pressure on families and that chronic underinvestment in the sector has contributed to staff shortages, low wages, and difficulties in accessing childcare services”.
4.29 SIGN LANGUAGE AT COUNCIL EVENTS
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That this local authority introduce sign language at council events such as civic reception and formal gatherings. this could start initially as a pilot basis and eventually introduced at council meetings”.
A report circulated prior to the meeting by the Director of Finance and Corporate Governance, Marie Whelan, and read to the Members by the Cathaoirleach, stated that Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreting services are already available on request. The report further noted that the Council recognises and supports the intention of the motion to further strengthen accessibility at civic receptions, formal gatherings and Council meetings, and that any expansion of these services would require a full assessment before implementation.
Councillor Gibbons expressed the view that the response did not fully commit to the request outlined in his motion and referred to the provisions of the Irish Sign Language Act. Councillors McSharry and Higgins voiced their support for the motion, with Councillor McSharry highlighting that members of the deaf community have access to specialist technology that enables text displayed on a screen to be read. She suggested that the Council explore the availability of free technology and voluntary services that could further enhance accessibility.
In response to Councillor Higgins' suggestion that ISL interpreting services should be provided on a need’s basis, Councillor Gibbons reiterated his view that such services should be available at all Council meetings and public events as a standard provision, rather than only when requested.
5. VOTES OF SYMPATHY
Votes of sympathy were recorded.
On behalf of Sligo County Council the Chief Executive extended his sincere condolences to the family of Joe Cullen, a member of staff of Sligo County Council who recently passed away.
6. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS
A number of Members congratulated all those involved in the highly successful visit of the Andalucía ship to Sligo.
Sligo County Council, Spanish Armada Ireland and Sligo Tourist Development Association
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended on the fantastic collaboration between Visit Sligo/Sligo County Council, Spanish Armada Ireland and Sligo Tourist Development Association, that brought the Spanish Armada replica galleon to Sligo. It has been a superbly coordinated initiative for both locals and visitors alike. The visit is shining a spotlight on Sligo’s unique Spanish Armada heritage while giving a significant boost to tourism and the local economy”.
Tara McGowan and the Cairde Arts Festival Team
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Cairde in the Park”.
Sligo County Council Environment Staff
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor A. Higgins
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Sligo County Council's Environment Staff on being awarded the Energy Management Award at the Ulster and Connacht Regional Optimising Power @ Work Awards”.
7. APPROVAL OF TRAINING/CONFERENCES/SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES ATTENDED
Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To approve the Conferences/Training events as circulated.”
and
“To note the summary of proceedings of conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5)(f) of the Local Government Act, 2001.”
8. CORRESPONDENCE
The Members agreed to note the correspondence received.
9. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES
No item was raised under this heading.
10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Councillor Queenan advised the Chamber that he had rejoined the Fianna Fáil Party. He thanked his fellow Councillors, both on the current and previous Councils, for their support over the past 10½ years. He also thanked the Chief Executive and staff of Sligo County Council.
Councillor Clarke asked the Chief Executive to consider having a headed item included on the agenda for the September Ordinary Meeting regarding changes to the Rural Planning Guidelines. Director of Services, Emer Concannon, advised that Sligo County Council had not received any information regarding a new National Planning Statement on Rural Planning Guidelines. She stated that, if and when such information was received, it would be considered and shared with Members as appropriate.
Councillor Clarke welcomed this response and queried again whether there had been any communication from Minister Brown, as indicated by the Taoiseach. The Chief Executive, Martin Lydon, confirmed that, while attending a recent Housing Summit, Minister Brown had mentioned the matter in his speech. He confirmed that nothing formal had been received and reiterated that, once the information was received, he would be happy to share it with Members and follow the same processes as previously undertaken when significant changes to planning were introduced.
The Cathaoirleach reminded Members of the visit of the Lithuanian Ambassador later that evening and encouraged as many Members as possible to attend the Civic Reception.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 2.45 pm.
Meeting Date 06/07/2026