Minutes 2024
Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo Held on Monday 25th March 2024 at 10.00 A.M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Quay Street, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Declan Bree (Mayor)
- Councillor Sinead Maguire
- Councillor Tom Mac Sharry
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons
- Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady
APOLOGIES:
- Councillor Gino O'Boyle
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services.
- Mr. Thomas Kerins, Acting Senior Executive Engineer.
- Mr. Declan Noone, Senior Executive Engineer.
- Ms. Emer Concannon, Acting Director of Services
- Mr. Jude Mannion, Staff Officer.
MAYOR:
Mayor, Declan Bree presided and welcomed all present to the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 29th JANUARY 2024:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor S Maguire
AND AGREED
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 29th January 2024
2. MATTERS ARISING
No Matters Arising.
3. UPDATE ON THE CROI CONAITHE TOWNS FUND (VACANT PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT GRANT)
At the suggestions of the Mayor and with the agreement of the members, Item No. 6 tabled by Councillor O’Grady would be heard alongside this item. Mr. Declan Noone referred to the cover report, circulated previously and advised that of the 257 applications received to date, 66 of these are in the urban area. It is hoped to provide additional information to the members on future reports, now that the payments process has commenced. Councillor O’Grady welcomed the response given in respect to Item No. 6 and expressed a hope that the properties in question would benefit from the Croi Conaithe Scheme, but that surface water run off is an immediate issue. Councillor Mac Sharry in seconding the motion, expressed concern at the levels of dereliction around Sligo presently, but also expressed the view that initiatives such as Croi Conaithe Scheme would address this and support the City Living concept. Councillor Maguire enquired as to the reasons why an application might be refused. Mr. Noone advised that the property may not fall within the eligibility parameters. Councillor Gibbons in his contribution felt a staged payment for the grant release would be more suitable.
4.TO CONSIDER THE SCHEDULE OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT WORKS 2024 – INCLUDING DRAFT ROADS, TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMME.
The Mayor thanked the staff for the detailed reports circulated previously and welcomed the programme of works. Specifically, the Mayor enquired as to the status of the planned link road at the MCR, Burton St Junction across to Pearse Road. The Mayor noted that the 2023 allocation was €400,000 and the expectation was that this long delayed project would have commenced by the end of 2023. Now, it is noted that a sum of €75,000 has been provided in this year’s programme, the Mayor sought clarity on when the project would commence. In response, Acting Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon advised that this project would commence in 2024 and that she did not envisage any issue with the Department, should there be any shortfall in funding needed.
Councillor Maguire welcomed in particular the resurfacing at the Strand Road, Strandhill.
Endorsing of the report was proposed by Councillor O’Grady and seconded by Councillor Gibbons
5. ROAD MARKINGS KEVINSFORT
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That Road Markings be upgraded at Kevinsfort, Strandhill Road”.
Councillor O’Grady acknowledged the works done and thanked Mr. Thomas Kerins, Acting Senior Executive Engineer, but for clarity advised that there is no specific budget for such works and can only be considered on the merits of a case-by-case basis. In this instance, the works were facilitated by Councillors Allocation
6. DERELICT PROPERTIES HOLBORN HILL
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That an update be provided on the derelict properties on Holborn Hill”
7. ROADS & PATHS PEARSE CRESCENT
Taken with Item No. 3
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
” That a review of road and footpath surfaces at Pearse Crescent be carried out”.
Mr. Thomas Kerins advised that this will be undertaken for future programmes, in response Councillor O’Grady advised that Councillors Allocation would be made available for interim pothole repairs.
8. SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER ALLOCATION MODEL
Proposed by Councillor D Bree
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That this Council, aware of the concerns of Down Syndrome Ireland, AsIAm and Inclusion Ireland, requests the Minister for Education not to implement the proposals contained in Circular 0002/24 (The Special Education Teacher SET) allocation model and the calculation of the SET allocation for each school from the 2024/25 school year until further notice, until meaningful consultation takes places for those most effected by the proposals in the circular – students with additional educational needs, and their families”
Councillor Bree advised the members present that there are significant fears and concerns held by the above-named national organisations and parents of children with special needs on the proposed changes to the funding model. The circular advises that from September, funding will no longer be based on the number of children with identified complex needs in that the definition complex education needs is to be removed from the removed from the eligibility criteria. This has taken place without any consultation with the parent bodies and is in contravention of the UN Convention on the rights of people with disabilities.
All members present were in support and emphasised the need for consultation, Councillor Gibbons referred to the long standing phrase associated with the disability sector of ‘nothing about us, without us’.
9. DISABLED PERSONS PARKING BAY KEMPTON PARADE
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That a disabled Persons Parking Bay be provided on Kempton Parade”.
Councillor Bree in tabling this motion did so in the context of the Iona Dat Care Services having been relocated there recently from Cregg House. Mr. Thomas Kerins in response advised that an assessment will be carried out. Councillor Gibbons in supporting the motion asked that members look at the overall provision of such bays across the Borough and cited the example of where 2 bays at Lower Knox St have been lost, but agreed that overall numbers have been provided across the Borough
10. CLEAN UP OF AVONDALE
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
DEFERRED IN COUNCILLOR O’BOYLES ABSENCE
“That Sligo County Council clean up the green area in Avondale Park removing trees, bushes and rubbish and possibly have a dog bin put in place. Also, to enquire if there are any grants available to put in an area for kids to play
11. STREAM AT RATHBRAUGHAN
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
DEFERRED IN COUNCILLOR O’BOYLES ABSENCE
“That Sligo County Council clean up the stream in Rathbraughan”
12. FOOTPATHS AT ST JOHNS HOSPITAL
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
DEFERRED IN COUNCILLOR O’BOYLES ABSENCE
“That Sligo County Council assess the Footpaths outside St John’s Hospital
13. ROADS & PATHS MARYMOUNT
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council assess the Footpaths & Road at Marymount and repair as needed.”
Report circulated previously advised that the area will be surveyed for inclusion in future years programmes. Councillor O’Grady welcomed this as did Councillor Mac Sharry who advised that the concerns of residents conveyed to him include queries on the use of the property tax which they have paid. Mr. Thomas Kerins confirmed that the Footpath Enhancement Programme does receive a specific allocation from the LPT and that 6 locations in the Borough area will benefit from €80,000 in funding this year and Marymount could be included as a location in future years allocation.
14. SEAT AT PEARSE ROAD ADJACENT TO MARYMOUNT ENTRANCE
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council assess the seat on Pearse Rd adjacent to the entrance to Marymount and repair as needed.”
Councillor O’Grady welcomed the report which stated that both the Roads & Heritage Departments have been engaging with Sligo Tidy Towns with a view to doing this work. The seat, known as the Wailing Bench is an important part of Sligo’s Heritage Councillor O’Grady stated. Councillor MacSharry also expressed satisfaction on this development and noted the excellent result that had been achieved with Sligo Tidy Towns on the adjacent Cenotaph memorial.
15. ROAD SURFACES AT KEVINSFORT
Proposed by Councillor R O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council continue the upgrading of the road surface at Kevinsfort”
Councillor O’Grady acknowledged the report which advised that the roads will be surveyed and considered for future years’ programme, but reminded members that the estate is now over 30 years old and so the roads require attention. She will be happy to make Councillors Allocations monies available to assist such works.
16. SPEED RAMPS ARD NA VEIGH / LYNDALE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
““That this local authorities roads department carry out an overhaul of the speed ramps at Ard Na Veigh / Lyndale”
Councillor Gibbons in tabling the motion did so to express concerns at their overall height, which whilst not personally against, he feels may be damaging many of what are now low set cars. The edges on some are also fraying and this is contributing to development of potholes. He acknowledges however that the works he is referring too have to be considered on the context of planned developments in the area. Councillor O’Grady referred to these developments also and advised that residents have expressed concerns over increased vehicle traffic flow. Mr. Thomas Kerins advised that this development includes traffic calming measures at the Post Office junction.
17. HEDGING TO REAR OF 42-62 MAUGHERABOY
Proposed by Councillor A Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor R O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That this local authority writes to Iarnrod Eireann, requesting them to cut back the overgrown hedges and briers of their property that borders the rear of houses Nos’ 42 – 62 Maugheraboy Estate
Councillor Gibbons reminded members that this matter was raised previously and that Iarnrod Eireann were written too regarding the matter. Residents who have contacted him are very annoyed at the fact that despite how well they keep their rear gardens and boundaries, that growth from across the fenced is not kept in check. He acknowledges that nothing can be done until September due to the nesting season and that the hedgerows are important for wildlife. However, he added they also attract rodents. Councillor O’Grady also referred to the associated dumping that takes place as a consequence and ask that this be relayed to Iarnrod Eireann also, problem is particularly bad at the bridge.
18. CONSULTATION WITH RATHEDMOND RESIDENTS
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor R O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Municipal District would request that any modifications of the existing entry/traffic movement restrictions in the urban area of Rathedmond Estate would only proceed following full consultation and agreement with all residents directly impacted by any such proposed changes.
Councillor Mac Sharry in tabling this motion was relaying both his own concerns and that of the residents of a possible reintroduction of Through Traffic in Rathedmond. He reminded members of the long and ultimately successful campaign that the residents undertook over 20 years ago. However, since tabling this motion, he acknowledges and is appreciative of the fact that a meeting has taken place. The Mayor asked that the members be kept informed of the engagements that the engineering staff are having with the Residents Association. Mr. Thomas Kerins confirmed for the members that a reintroduction of through traffic is not being planned or considered and that the current proposals are enhancement in nature only.
19. RESURFACING WORKS IN CARTRON
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Municipal District Engineering Staff would undertake road resurfacing works along the bus route in Cartron, specifically on Seafield Avenue, Classiebawn Drive & Cartron Point
Councillor Mac Sharry wished to acknowledge the excellent bus service in place for Cartron and in particular wanted to thank all those involved in the installation of the shelter. However, the road surface is as a result, in receipt of greater wear and tear. Councillor Gibbons feels that the surface is detracting from the estate and giving the area a dilapidated look. Mr Kerins confirmed that it will be surveyed and considered for inclusion in future years programmes, but that there has been 6 separate surfacing jobs undertaken in Cartron in the last 5 years. All members wished to note the efforts of Councillor Gibbons in campaigning for the works to Mud Lane.
20. RESURFACING WORKS AT CALTRAGH, CROZON DOWNS, KNOCKNAGANNY
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by CouncillorR O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Municipal District Engineering Staff would undertake road resurfacing works at Caltragh Road, corner of Crozon Downs/Knocknaganny and adjacent to the old entrance at Marymount.
Councillor Mac Sharry acknowledged the report that these areas can be considered for future years programme and thanked Mr. Kerins for his efforts on this to date.
21. STAFFING AT SLIGO CEMETARY
Proposed by Councillor D Bree
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That we call on the management of the Council to take the necessary steps to have Council staffing levels restored to Sligo Municipal cemetery.
Councillor Bree in tabling this motion acknowledges that the day to day running of the councils operations including it staff is the responsibility of the management and not the members. However, he advised it is as an elected member that the concerns of many people in the public have been bought too him. It is 7 months now since he read a report in the Sligo Champion that 2 staff members have been suspended on full pay pending an investigation. As a former trade union member, Mayor Bree expressed surprise at how long it is taking to arrive at a conclusion.
22. BICYCLE STANDS AT O’CONNELL STREET
Proposed by Councillor A Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“When will the Bicycle stands that were removed temporarily to allow for the works on O’Connell St and associated areas going to be reinstalled.
Mr Kerins in his report advised that a new street furniture strategy is being developed and that he expects that some new stands will be installed this year. Councillor Gibbons acknowledged and welcomed this, but stressed the urgency as for example persons currently leaving their bikes parked against buildings such as the Post Office could prove to be an obstruction.
23. CORRESPONDENCE
Copy of letter from Corporate Services that was issued to the NTA as a result of its failure to reply to previous letters issued directly from this Municipal District.
All members deeply disappointed at the failure again of the NTA to reply. Mayor Bree declared that the NTA are effectively ignoring the elected members. Further correspondence to issue from this office.
24. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
The Mayor wished to acknowledge and thank Tony Fox who is retiring after many years of dedicated service as a Traffic Warden. The Mayor recounted his common sense approach as relayed to him by many members of the local retail community. All members wished to be associated with wishing Tony & family many years of happy and healthy retirement.
The Director of Services will liaise with the Mayor as regards the last scheduled meeting of this term of the Council, currently scheduled for May 27th, but the members would like to see this bought forward
The business of the meeting concluded at 11.15pm.
Meeting Date 25/03/2024