Minutes 2022
Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo Held on Monday 18th July 2022 at 10.00 a.m. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Quay Street, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Declan Bree
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons
- Councillor Tom MacSharry (Mayor)
- Councillor Sinéad Maguire (virtually)
- Councillor Gino O’Boyle
ABSENT:
- Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Frank Moylan, Acting / Director of Services
- Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer
- Mr. Jude Mannion, Staff Officer (Meetings Administrator)
- Ms. Marian O’Callaghan, Executive Architect
MAYOR:
The Mayor, Councillor Tom Mac Sharry presided and welcomed all present to the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 16th MAY 2022:
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 16th May 2022”.
2. MATTERS ARISING:
There were no matters arising
3. TO CONSIDER REPORT ON TEMPORARY MODULAR ACCOMODATION FOR UKRAINIAN NATIONALS:
FOR NOTING
Ms. Marian O’Callaghan, Senior Executive Architect delivered a report to the members outlining the legislative background to the national initiative to provide temporary accommodation for Ukrainian Refugees and the new planning regulations that have come into effect (23 June 22) to support it. The OPW in collaboration with the Department of Equality, Children, Disability, Integration & Youth requested all Local Authorities to identify possible sites for temporary modular accommodation for Ukrainian Nationals fleeing the conflict for the duration of the crisis. The former Doorly Park Maisonettes site has been identified as an option for further consideration by the OPW as a potential pilot location. The site will revert back to Sligo County Council for housing development when the site is no longer needed for humanitarian purposes. Further reports will be made available to the members as the process evolves.
The Mayor thanked Ms. O’Callaghan for the report and invited the members for their comments. Councillor Gibbons asked for clarity on the specific nature of the units, i.e. will these be prefabricated structures, military tents etc. Councillor Gibbons also suggested that the introduction of the additional planning regulations be extended so as to allow for use with dealing with the existing domestic housing crisis, but was anxious to stress that he was not trying to ‘dilute’ the present specific situation as regards the displaced Ukrainian Nationals. Councillor O’Boyle sought details on the number of units to be provided on site and clarity on the ‘temporary’ nature. Councillor Bree enquired as to whether any other sites were considered by Sligo County Council and queried as to whether this particular site selection would delay plans to ultimately provide Local Authority housing on the site. Councillor Bree also enquired as to whether the ‘exempted’ status of this temporary accommodation proposal as provided for by the new regulations would mean no public consultation is prescribed, and finally Councillor Bree asked is the proceeding with this proposal an Executive or Reserved function. Councillor Maguire declared it was a very progressive step given the recent occurrences of refugees having to sleep on the floor in the Airport Terminal, Councillor Maguire also enquired as to the numbers of individuals overall that it was hoped to accommodate on this proposed site.
In response to the member’s queries, Ms. O’Callaghan emphasised that this is still an evolving situation. The OPW may ultimately not proceed with this proposed site, but should the development proceed, it is envisaged that a total of approximately 20-30, 2-Bed units could be accommodated on the site, with each unit having a capacity to accommodate 4 persons.
Ms. O’Callaghan advised that the type of modular accommodation was still to be determined, there were a number of modular housing systems available to the market. Three sites were offered for consideration to the OPW by Sligo County Council: the site at Doorly Park, the Fairgreen on Temple St and a site adjacent to the Men’s Shed at Cranmore Road. The latter two have been discounted by the OPW. Ms. O’Callaghan advised that none of the 3 sites offered for consideration are included in Sligo County Council’s current Housing Delivery Action Plan 2022 – 2026. The delivery of LA Social Housing will not be impacted by the offer of these sites for Ukranian Temporary Accommodation. The Temporary Modular Housing Initiative is to be developed separately, overseen nationally by the OPW. The Doorly Park Site was not in the first round of sites identified by the OPW for development. Ms. O’Callaghan advised that there is no provision for public consultation in the new regulations governing this initiative. The new Regulations only provide for adherence to environmental considerations.
In response, the Mayor, whilst welcoming the proposal, stressed that a community engagement and consultation process would be extremely important in this specific instance given the demographic of the Doorly Park area. Councillor Bree agreed and recounted of how difficulties elsewhere in the Country have been experienced, where accommodating asylum seekers did not involve any local consultation. Ms. O’Callaghan advised that it was not within the terms of this initiative to provide for a consultative process, but that information could be shared with the Members, as it became available to Sligo County Council.
4. BROOKLAWNS LAWN ESTATE T.I.C
Proposed by Councillor R. O ‘Grady
That Sligo County Council commence the Taking in Charge of Brooklawns Estate
In Councillor O’ Gradys’ absence, this was deferred to the next meeting.
5. SPEED SIGNAGE FROM SLIGO SPORTS COMPLEX TO TONAPHUBBLE JUNCTION
Proposed by Councillor T. Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
"To Sligo MD engineering staff erect speed signage at the back avenue in Cleveragh in particular at the top corner going from Sligo Sports Complex to the Tonaphubble Junction
Councillor Mac Sharry in putting down this motion complimented the works carried out recently further back at the retail Park and Industrial Units. However, he had received representations in respect of 7 No. houses beyond the Sports complex towards the Tonaphubble junction.
Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer in response advised that there are two vehicle actuated speed signs already in place along this specific 950 metre stretch and advised that a balance must be struck to ensure there is not a proliferation of signage. Councillor Mac Sharry suggested that his own Councillors proposal allocation be considered to provide for 1 No. ‘Non flashing’ sign on the Left side and that Engineering Staff might examine and revert to him directly. Councillor Gibbons in seconding the motion highlighted the need for a footpath at the location to provide for the ‘Sligo LETS’ organic farm along this stretch.
6. RESURFACING AT DOORLY PARK
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
"That Sligo MD engineering staff carry out resurfacing works at Doorly Park
Councillor Mac Sharry in putting down this motion complimented the recent works to the footpaths in the area, however the road surface itself, particularly at the front is in poor condition and has the appearance of ‘peeling’ in places. Councillor Gibbons in supporting the motion complimented the residents for the manner in which they maintain and upkeep the estate and that nothing is required from the Council other than to address the ‘tired look’ of road surface which would complement the efforts of the Residents Association.
Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer in response advised that this is not provided for in this years’ work programme but that it may be considered when formulating future years programmes of work.
7. REPAIRS TO JETTY AT LOWER QUAY STREET:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That the Council repair the jetty at Lower Quay Street
Councillor O’Boyle in putting down this motion advised that he had been approached by a number of fishermen concerning a number of holes in the jetty itself and consequently the difficulty in getting boats in and out.
Mr. Brian Flynn in the response to the Notice advised that the slipway itself is cleaned 3 times per annum and as recently as a fortnight ago and that no obvious damage was recorded on that occasion, but that if Councillor O’Boyle could bring any specific area to his attention, he would arrange a further inspection.
8. UPDATE ON PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT CHURCHILL
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That the Council provide an update on the pedestrian crossing at Churchill.
Mr. Brian Flynn, Senior Executive Engineer in response advised that Due to other priorities and commitments, Roads Department personnel have not had the opportunity to examine the need for an additional pedestrian crossing at Church Hill. This item can remain on our schedule of schemes for consideration and examination.
9. BUS EIREANN SERVICE ISSUES
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That the Council writes to Bus Eireann over service issues.
Councillor O’Boyle in putting down this motion outlined the growing problems recently with both delays and cancellations on Bus Eireann routes and with the college calendar year recommencing shortly, it would be important to have these issues addressed as soon as is possible. The Mayor concurred and advised that correspondence from the Council will issue
10. CLEARING OF LEAVES FROM FOOTPATH ON LARKHILL ROAD
Proposed by Councillor R. O ‘Grady
That the Council remove the leaves and debris that has accumulated at the End of the footpath on the Western side of the Larkhill Rd adjacent to the traffic lights
In Councillor O’ Gradys’ absence, this was deferred to the next meeting.
11. RESURFACING OF ROSEHILL
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
That the Council provide a commencement date for the road re-surfacing of Rosehill Estate
In Councillor O’ Gradys’ absence, this was deferred to the next meeting.
12. REPAINTING & UPGRADING OF CITY HALL
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
That the Council put in place a plan for the painting and upgrading of City Hall
In Councillor O’ Gradys’ absence, this was deferred to the next meeting.
13. MAINTENANCE OF CAIRNS ROAD - PEARSE ROAD PEDESTRIAN LINK
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
That appropriate measures be taken to ensure that the pedestrian link to Pearse Road, the green area and the rear access lane in Cairns Drive are properly maintained
Councillor Bree in putting down this motion advised that on a recurring basis, he puts down a similar motion and that the work concern does subsequently get done, but that he is now asking that it be placed on the annual programme of works proper. Previously much of these works would have been undertaken voluntarily by the residents themselves, but now that many are now elderly, he is looking to the Council to assist in this regard.
At this juncture the Mayor interjected and suggested that Item No.16 put down by Councillor Gibbons be heard simultaneously.
Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer in response to Councillor Bree Notices advised that The Roads Department will timetable an inspection of the laneways in the coming weeks and as resources permit. Should it be determined that routine maintenance works are required, e.g. weed control / sweeping, these works may be added to the Council schedule of works. Maintenance of the green area remains the responsibility of the Residents / Residents Committee.
In response to Councillor Gibbons request that this laneway undergo some resurfacing works to complete an element that was carried out by Eircom as part of a body of work it completed recently, Mr Flynn advised that the costs of any amount of resurfacing now is significant and that there is no available funding in the current year, but if a number of members wished to explore using Councillors Allocation Resources, then it could be discussed further.
Councillor Bree clarified the green area element of his Notice concerned just the pathway through it. The Mayor added that this path was moss covered and that its removal by Engineering Staff would be hugely beneficial to the voluntary efforts of the Residents in their overall care of the estate themselves.
14. CALLS FOR THE RESTORATION OF TOWN AND BOROUGH COUNCILS
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
That this Borough District reiterates its call for the restoration of Town and Borough Councils, and we further call for a genuine devolution of powers to local government
Councillor Bree in putting down this motion declared to members that the abolition of Sligo Borough Council eight years ago stripped Sligo of an important element of its Heritage as local government had existed in the town for over 400 years. He referred to the Council of Europe criticisms of Ireland’s lack of constitutional protection for the system of Local Government. Councillor Bree also highlighted to members a recent call by the Country’s largest Trade Unions for a reintroduction of a system of Urban Councils to include for directly elected Mayors.
The Mayor in supporting the motion stated that members from all 5 former Borough Councils are in agreement that their Urban Cores have suffered in the years since abolition and that their abolition has not resulted in cost savings. Councillor Gibbons agreed with both Councillor Bree and the Mayor and said the ordinary people of Sligo felt hurt at its abolition. Councillor Gibbons also felt the loss of the specific Borough budget was a huge loss.
15. TRAFFIC CALMING AT ST ANNES TERRACE
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
That traffic calming cushions/ramps be restored on the newly resurfaced road in St. Anne’s Terrace.”
Councillor Bree in putting down this motion complimented the Engineering Department for the recent resurfacing works and mentioned the late Martin Forde who highlighted this issue. Councillor Bree feels that there always a small minority of motorists who use the opportunity that new and improved road surfaces present, to actually increase their own speed with little regard to pedestrians or other road users and so is calling for traffic calming measures at this location.
Councillor Maguire wished to be supportive of the motion and paid tribute to the late Martin Forde who was a great advocate for the area. The Mayor echoes these sentiments.
Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer in response advised that following recent resurfacing works at St. Anne’s Terrace, it was decided to refrain from immediately reinstating the speed ramps along this roadway in order to ascertain if such traffic calming interventions were still a requirement along this narrow and quiet street. Rather than moving to reinstate ramps in the immediate term, the roads department are monitoring traffic through this area for a period of time and will continue to liaise with the residents on same.
16. RESURFACING OF PEDESTRIAN LANEWAY BETWEEN CAIRNS DRIVE AND PEARSE ROAD
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
That this Council calls on the roads department to carry out the full resurfacing of the pedestrian Laneway that connects Pearse Road and Cairns Drive house estate.
Refer to Item 13 above.
17. SEATING ALONG N4 FROM HUGHES BRIDGE TO CARTRON CROSS
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
That this Council start the process of having a number of seats installed along the route of the N4 from Hughes Bridge to the junction of Cartron Cross.
NB. Councillor Gibbons presented and amendment to this when the motion was called, namely;
‘And that the green area at the shore front to the entrance of Mud Lane Cartron will be developed into a universal access picnic area with picnic benches and summer seating, a recreation area for the residents of Harbour View Apartments, Catron, Ballytivnan, Forthill and the general public
Councillor Gibbons in putting down this motion declared that the Cartron area is now a well matured development and accordingly the population is now aging and the walk in and out of town which wouldn’t have been an issue some years back may now be for some residents and that providing seating would have the result of providing resting spaces on the route for such residents, and also in doing so might in fact also encourage more people to walk.
Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer in response advised that in the current year unfortunately no funding opportunity exists, but that the Executive will keep abreast of developments in this regard in relation to the seating specifically and highlighted that there was a scheme in 2021 but it was a once off. The amended element will require a greater deal of planning he advised.
18. SAFETY REVIEW AT BALLINODE T-JUNCTION
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
In light of the number of road accidents at the T Junction at Ballinode that connects Molloway Hill, Ash Lane, the N16 and Hazelwood Road R286, that this Council calls on the roads department to carry out the necessary safety Study to see how we can improve this junction in the interest of health and safety.
Councillor Gibbons in putting down this motion described a recent near accident that he witnessed and commented on the absence of a filter light form Ash Lane turning up to town. As an approach road to town, for visiting motorists it is particularly dangerous. Councillor O’Boyle in supporting the motion enquired as to whether a review of the existing traffic light sequencing be in order to provide for longer intervals.
Mr. Brian Flynn Senior Executive Engineer in response advised The Roads Department will undertake a review of Road Collision Data for this junction at Ballinode, which will inform the need for any further study.
19. CORRESPONDENCE
Response received from the office of the Minister of Finance in relation to correspondence issue by the Executive on foot of Item No 12 on the Agenda of the meeting of May 16th concerning the retention of the 9% VAT Rate
Correspondence received via Corporate Services from the Hawks Well Theatre with a request to present to the members on its Capital Programme
20. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Councillor Bree proposed that discussion on the latter be deferred until a later meeting when Councillor O’Grady will be in attendance, and this was agreed to by all.
There was no further business.
The Mayor thanked Members for their co-operation during the meeting.
The business of the meeting concluded at 11.40 a.m.
Meeting Date 18/07/2022