Ballymote-Tubbercurry Minutes 2014

Minutes of Meeting of The Municipal District Of Ballymote-Tobercurry held on Monday, 15th September, 2014 at 11.30am in Meeting Room 1, Teach Laighne, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo.


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Martin Baker (Chair)
  • Councillor Michael Clarke
  • Councillor Margaret Gormley
  • Councillor Jerry Lundy
  • Councillor Dara Mulvey
  • Councillor Joe Queenan
  • Councillor Paul Taylor

 

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
  • Ms. Marie Leydon, Head of Finance
  • Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
  • Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer
  • Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
  • Mr. Seamus O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Mr. Michael Carty, Senior Executive Engineer
  • Ms. Sinéad Branley, Staff Officer

 

APOLOGIES:

  • Councillor Eamonn Scanlon

 

CATHAOIRLEACH:

The Cathaoirleach Councillor M. Baker presided and welcomed all those present to the meeting.

 

REQUEST TO SUSPEND STANDING ORDERS:

Councillor M. Gormley asked for standing orders to be suspended to discuss the impending closure of the government offices in Tubbercurry.  This was agreed by the Cathaoirleach Councillor M. Baker and the members present. 

 

Following further discussion on the matter it was:

 

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“Recognising that the closure of the Government Offices will have severe consequences for the local economy and employment in the area, this Council now calls on Deputy Perry, Deputy McLoughlin, and Taoiseach Enda Kenny to take the necessary steps to have the Government Offices retained in Tubbercurry, and furthermore we request the Taoiseach to meet with a Council deputation to discuss the crisis as a matter of urgency”

 

1. MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 10TH JULY, 2014:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Special Meeting of Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District held on 10th July, 2014.”

 

2. MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF BALLYMOTE-TOBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HELD ON 16TH JUNE, 2014:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District held on 16th June, 2014.”

 

3. MATTERS ARISING:

None were noted

 

4. STRATEGIC ISSUES:

Mr. C. Hayes, Chief Executive outlined his vision for Sligo to 2020.  He sought the Members views on the priorities as outlined and having regard to the stated priorities, advised that they should inform the agenda for the new Municipal District Committee.

He stated that the Ballymote-Tobercurry MD should have a relationship with the Sligo MD in order that members views can be taken into account on how to jointly advance Sligo over the coming years.

The Chief Executive’s presentation covered the following areas:

  • Social and Community Development
  • Tourism
  • Economic Development
  • Arts and Culture
  • Environment

Councillor M. Clarke thanked the CE for the presentation and stated that more often than not the Council are judged on the state of the roads rather than on their contribution towards tourism.  He welcomed the opportunity for the Council to become more involved in this area.  Councillor M. Gormley thanked the CE for the presentation and said it gave all those present food for thought.  She welcomed the members of the Executive to Teach Laighne and stated that this was an opportunity keep services in Teach Laighne and expand on them where possible. She also stated that she felt it was important that the farming community would have involvement in the Strategic direction of the County. 

Councillor J. Queenan supported the CE’s presentation and agreed with Councillor Clarke’s comments on infrastructure.  Funding would also be vital to the success of any plan.  Councillor J. Queenan also raised the issue of SPC’s.  He asked if agriculture could be included in one of the SPC’s given its importance to the county. 

Councillor M. Baker thanked the CE for the presentation and stated that it is up to the local representatives to speak up and say what’s on their minds.  He stated that the music scene was pivotal to the success of promoting the County.  He also referred to the contribution of the Tidy Towns groups.  He stated that adequate funding was crucial going forward.  Councillor P. Taylor asked if it was possible for the Council to ascertain from Government what decisions would be forthcoming in order to be fully informed.  He also felt that the area of tourism was important for the County.  Councillor J. Lundy stated that the CE’s presentation gave the members alot of points to consider and queried the Municipal District Committees exact role and how it feeds in to the full Council.  He also stated that the tourism sector was an area of personal interest to him and was delighted with the success of the Wild Atlantic Way.  He stated that more signage would be required at the border areas to capture the tourists imagination.  Councillor D. Mulvey said the presentation gave those present food for thought and he fully supported the previous Councillors comments. 

The Chief Executive Mr C. Hayes thanked the members for their positive comments and emphasised the need for all groups to work together.  He used the example of the Council working with the Tidy Towns and Fleadh Committees.  He stated that with regards to national decisions the Council wont always know in advance what decisions are forthcoming.  However he stated that Sligo needs to focus on its strengths and tourism and the precision engineering sectors were crucial to this.  Mr. Hayes stated that the agricultural sector would not be forgotten.  He went on to say the Council now have to develop a Corporate Plan and all the items raised would feature. 

 

5. DRAFT ENNISCRONE LAP 2014-2020:

Mr. F. Moylan, Senior Planner read a report to the meeting regarding the Draft Enniscrone LAP 2014-2020.  Councillor J. Queenan thanked Mr. Moylan for the work done and queried a road route mentioned in the plan.  Mr. Moylan responded accordingly and then advised those present that once the plan is adopted the proposals contained within it can then be commenced. 

It was

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor Michael Clarke

AND AGREED

“Having considered Draft Local Area Plan for Enniscrone, the associated SEA and AA Reports, the Proposed Amendments and the Second Chief Executive’s Report dated 1 September 2014; it appeared to the members of the Planning Authority that the Draft Plan should be adopted in accordance with the Second Chief Executive’s Report, without further modifications.  The Enniscrone Local Area Plan 2014-2020 is hereby deemed to be made”

 

6. SIGNAGE ON THE N59:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the Council to provide a report on signage on the N59, a number of signs need to be replaced.”

Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated that “the signs along the N59 will be examined and any deficiencies will be made know to the National Roads Authority.  No extra funding is available in the current budget and it will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works”.

 

7. FUNDING FOR CLASS THREE ROADS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“To call on the Council to provide more money for Class Three Roads.”

Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated that “No extra funding is available in the current budget and it will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works”.

Councillor Lundy stated that Community Involvement Schemes were a good way of addressing roads issues but it was unfair to ask people to contribute from their own pockets.  Mr. Brennan stated that the CIS schemes were not a replacement for Class Three funding.  The Chief Executive stated that determining the funding for Class Three Roads is part of the budgetary process of the Municipal District.  It is up to them to consider how discretionary funding should be spent when deciding on the Schedule of Municipal District Works.  Councillor M. Gormley queried how best to determine the amount of funding.  The Chief Executive responded by saying this was a matter for the SPC to determine the best method.  The Cathaoirleach Councillor M. Baker stated that it should be done on a needs basis.

 

8. RESURFACING MAIN CROSSROADS IN MONASTERADEN:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“I will ask Sligo County Council to investigate the possibility of re-surfacing the main crossroads in the village of Monasteraden.”

Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated that “the possibility if resurfacing the crossroads in Monasteraden can be discussed in 2015 when consideration is being given to the 2015 Road Works Scheme”. 

 

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor M. Baker indicated that he had to leave the meeting early to attend a funeral and with the agreement of the meeting he would deal with motions 17 and 18 at this point.  This was agreed.

 

17. FOOTHPATHS AT ARDKEERAN, RIVERSTOWN:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to provide funding for footpaths at Ardkeeran, Riverstown.”

In response Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated “no funding has been available from the Discretionary Improvement Grant for footpaths in recent years.  The matter can be included in your proposals for consideration for the 2015 Roadwork’s program”. 

Councillor J. Queenan stated that this state of affairs cannot continue and could the Council investigate the possibility of obtaining funding under the new Leader Scheme and LCDC’s.  In response Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services stated that she could not guarantee that this would happen as the Rural Development Programme is not finalised and is dependent on EU Funding.  Cllrs Baker, Clarke, Mulvey and Gormley all agreed that the state of the footpaths were an issue in rural areas.  Councillor M. Clarke queried if the money the Council will receive from the Local Property Tax could be used for this purpose.  In response the Chief Executive said there are ongoing discussions with the Department and he will revert to the Members and the CPG Group regarding the finances in due course.

 

18. PLANS FOR PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL WALKS AND CYCLE WAYS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council what plans are in place to provide more walks and cycle ways in the following areas: Ballymote, Tubbercurry and West Sligo, in order to attract more tourists.”

In response, Mr M. Carty, Senior Executive Engineer stated the Sligo County Council is currently working in a number of areas throughout County Sligo regarding product development of recreational infrastructure.  In addition, marketing developments include

  1. The development of a dedicated website www.sligowalks.ie which highlights all walks in County Sligo
  2. Ongoing promotion on www.sligotourism.ie
  3. Relaunch of Miner’s Way walking booklet. 

Sligo County Council in collaboration with walking groups, Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership, Sligo Leader Partnership and Sligo Tourism etc. is actively engaged in the promotion of the County’s natural assets in combination with recreational opportunities to attract visitors to the area.  Mr. Carty also distributed a Sligo Walking Guide booklet to the meeting.

At this point Councillor M. Baker, left the meeting and Councillor J. Lundy took up the position of Chair.

 

At this point Councillor P. Taylor asked that with the agreement of the meeting his motion no. 13 be taken with Councillor Gormley’s motion no. 9.  This was agreed.

 

9. EMERGENCY ROAD WORKS ON THE R293, R294, R296 AND CRD 494 AND SURFACING WORKS ON THE MOYDOO AND CULFADDA ROADS:

It was then

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“9.(a) Over the past number of months undulations have occurred in the following roads which are a  danger to all road users R293 at Donegans, R294 at Annagh R296 at Cloonahinsin and Bunninadden village CRd 494 Carrentemple. In the interest of road safety I am calling on the council to carry out emergency works.

9.(b) When is it proposed to carry out surfacing works on the Moydoo and the Culfadda roads both part of the 2014 road work scheme?”

 

13. MIDOO ROAD, GURTEEN:

13. “To ask Sligo County Council if and when the Midoo Road outside Gurteen village will be resurfaced.”

In response Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read the following reports to the meeting:

9(a) “No funding exists for work at these locations in the current Budget and it will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works”.

9(b) “These works are programmed for completion this week”

13. “These works are programmed for completion this week”

 

10. CONNOLLY PARK:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“That we get an update report on Connolly Park.”

Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services read a report to the meeting advising the Council is in ongoing discussions with the Department regarding the housing scheme and its future.

 

11. CLEAN SIDE ROADS AND OPEN UP WATER TABLES:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

AND AGREED

“That the council put plans in place to side clean roads and open up water tables in the interest of safety and to protect roads.”

In response Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated “side cleaning of roads and opening up of water tables is already ongoing in so far as funding allows”.

 

12. TULLYCUSHEEN MORE CROSSROADS:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to investigate the possibility of removing an area of ground at Tullycusheen More crossroads outside Tubbercurry in order to ensure safety for pupils and parents walking from the above crossroads to Drimina National School and would also provide adequate site lines exiting the above crossroads.”

Mr. Tom Brennan read a report to the meeting which stated that no funding is available in the current budget to permit the purchase of lands and to carry out the required drainage and fencing works associated with this project but the matter could be given consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works”.

 

14. PLAYGROUND IN TUBBERCURRY:

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

AND AGREED

“The playground in Tubbercurry has been closed and is of no benefit to the children of Tubbercurry as it stands. I will ask what measures can be taken to have this very important facility re-opened again for the children of the area and their parents.”

Ms. Dorothy Clarke read a report to the meeting which stated “the playground in Tubbercurry is the responsibility of the Tubbercurry Family Resource Centre and it is the Council’s understanding that a decision has been made by them to close the playground on H&S grounds.  The Council currently does not have resources available for remedial works in such playgrounds.

 

15. LOCAL ROAD 511C CHAFFPOOL, TUBBERCURRY:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“I will ask the Council if funding has been granted to improve and make safe Local Road 511.C in Chaffpool, Tubbercurry, where local families were marooned last winter due to flooding on this public road for 10 weeks.”

Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated “to date no funding has been forthcoming from the Department of Transport nor the OPW to alleviate the flooding problem”.  Councillor Lundy asked that the Council contact the Department again on this matter.

 

16. ESTATE ENHANCEMENT WORKER:

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

AND AGREED

“I will ask if a worker has been appointed to help residents of council owned housing estates maintain and enhance these estates, for example, Mountain View Housing Estate, Tubbercurry.”

Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services read a report to the meeting which stated “a recommendation was formulated by the housing section last year to develop a team of workers for this type of work to be located throughout the county through the Gateway Labour Activation Scheme to carry out environmental works in Council estates.  It was considered that 5 area based workers if aligned to the 5 Area Engineers could possibly be combined with Roads and other local assigned duties.  To enable this to progress issues such as supervision, base, and other facilities that such staff would need has to be established.  If this structure can be agreed then a process of recruiting these workers can commence. Correspondence is ongoing in relation to this matter in-house and it is hoped to make progress shortly.  The selection process has been carried out for estate workers in the Sligo Urban area and this programme should be up and running within the next month”

 

19. ACTIVATION OF BYE-LAWS TO REGULARISE THE PARKING OF CARAVANS ALONG THE SEA FRONT AT BUNNINA, EASKEY:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Chief Executive to commence the process of activating bye-laws on Road 79 Bunnina, Easkey to regularise the parking of caravans along the sea front.”

Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated “before this process can be commenced the Area Engineer will have to examine the extent over which the coastline needs to be controlled i.e. how many kilometres and how far back from the sea etc.”

 

20. SECTION OF ROAD OFF THE R297 FROM HOLLOW, ENNISCRONE TO THE COUNCIL CAR PARK:

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

AND AGREED

“To ask the Director of Services to commence the process of making the road public, off the R297 from Hollow, Enniscrone to the council car park.”

Mr. Tom Brennan, Senior Engineer read a report to the meeting which stated “Sligo County Council’s finances are such that it is not proposed to take over this road at present.  It will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works”.

 

21. COLLAPSE OF CATTLE PRICES:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan

“To call on the Minister for Agriculture, Simon Covney to intervene in the collapse of cattle prices, which is causing great hardship in the farming community”

This was deferred to the next full meeting of the Council.

 

22. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

None noted

 

 

The business of the meeting ended at 1.50 pm.

 

 

 

 


Meeting Date 15/09/2014