Cathaoirleach's Introduction

I am pleased to introduce Sligo County Council’s Annual Report 2001. It was a busy and exciting year for this Council, and it was encouraging to see many important initiatives brought to fruition. One of the key objectives of the ‘Better Local Government’ process is the provision of a quality, accessible service to customers.

- Cllr. Tony McLoughlin, Cathaoirleach

In 2001 work started on the ‘one stop shop’ facility in Tubbercurry, which will provide a range of services to the people of South Sligo – including new branch library and motor tax facilities. It will also house the Tubbercurry Area offices and will accommodate a range of other public services, including the North Western Health Board and Teagasc.

Another major development in 2001 was the opening of Strandhill Housing Scheme. A total of 27 houses were constructed which included 19 ‘affordable’ houses. One very positive facet of the project was the Council’s ‘Estate Management Initiative’, which encourages genuine participation of residents in the management of their estate. This is one of the first initiatives of its kind in the country, and it has generated a vibrant exchange of ideas and information between the Council and the new householders. I firmly believe that the key to the continuing development of Sligo and the Northwest is the provision of a proper transport infrastructure serving the region. Sligo County Council has ambitious plans for our road network, particularly on the National Primary Routes N4 and N17, and I hope that with the support of the Department of the Environment and the National Roads Authority, we can see progress in the short term. Our rail and air links are also of critical importance, and I and my colleagues will continue to advocate improvements to these essential services for the people of Sligo.