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Minutes of September Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 7th September, 2009 in County Hall, Riverside, Sligo at 11am

MEMBERS PRESENT:

• Councillor Barrett,
• Councillor Barry,
• Councillor Bree,
• Councillor Cawley,
• Councillor Clarke,
• Councillor Collery,
• Councillor Fleming,
• Councillor Gormley,
• Councillor Healy McGowan,
• Councillor Henry,
• Councillor Keaney,
• Councillor Leonard,
• Councillor Lyons,
• Councillor McGarry,
• Councillor McGrath,
• Councillor Mullaney,
• Councillor Mulvey,
• Councillor Murray,
• Councillor O’Grady,
• Councillor Queenan
  

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

• Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
• Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services
• Ms D. Clarke, Director of Services
• Ms R. McNulty, Director of Services
• Ms P. R. Gallagher, Acting Director of Services
• Ms M. Leydon, Head of Finance
• Mr T. Brennan, Senior Engineer
• Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer
• Mr F. O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer
• Mr F. Moylan, Acting Senior Planner
• Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
• Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
• Ms. K. McTiernan, Senior Staff Officer
• Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
• Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator
  

CATHAOIRLEACH:

• The Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray presided.
  

1.  MINUTES OF THE  SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 5TH AUGUST, 2009:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Special Meeting of the Council held on the 5th August, 2009”

2.  MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEEETING HELD ON 20TH JULY, 2009:

 Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Special Meeting of the Council held on the 20th July, 2009”

3.  MINUTES OF THE JULY ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 6TH JULY, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the July Ordinary Meeting held on the 6th July, 2009”

4.  PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001 PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF THE N59 REALIGNMENT:

This item was adjourned to the October meeting with the agreement of the Members.

5.  PART 8 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT) REGULATIONS, 2001 PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF DEMOUNTABLE DWELLING AT DRUMRAINE TD, RIVERSTOWN, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in accordance with Part 8 (Article 81) of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 (as amended by the Planning and Development Regulations, 2006) proceed with the provision of a demountable dwelling and connection to existing septic tank and all other site services at Drumraine Td, Riverstown, Co. Sligo”.

6.  TAKING IN CHARGE OF HOUSING ESTATE -“THE CRESCENT, BALLISODARE, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge the estate known as “The Crescent, Ballisodare, Co. Sligo” by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act
1993 to declare public the road serving the estate”

7.  DECLARE ROADS PUBLIC UNDER SECTION 11(1) OF THE ROADS ACT, 1993:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council being satisfied of their general public utility declare the following roads as public roads in accordance with Section 11(1) of the Roads Act, 1993.”

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council take in charge the following:

1. The housing estate of “Teeling Grove” in the townland of Tubbercurry
2. The housing estate of “Mountain Park” in the townland of Coolaney
3. The housing estate of “Brookfield Close” in the townland of Cuiltylough, Riverstown”

8.  APPROVAL TO BORROW AN INCREASED SUM NOT EXCEEDING €10m BY WAY OF TEMPORARY OVERDRAFT:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“That pursuant to Section 106 of the Local Government Act, 2001 and subject to the sanction of the Minister of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Sligo County Council hereby authorises the borrowing of a sum not exceeding €10m by way of temporary overdraft for the period to 31st December 2009.”

In response to Members queries, Mr H. Kearns, County Manager outlined the Council’s continuing financial deterioration and the need to increase the Overdraft facility.  He indicated that the Council’s Income could be down €1m with a €2m deficit on the Revenue Budget this year.

9.  TO CONSIDER DRAFT STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE SCHEME 2009-2014:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve the Draft Strategic Policy Committee Scheme 2009-2014”

Mr F. MacNabb informed the meeting that

1. Ms Ann Taheny, President St. Angela’s College
2. Mr. Bill Walsh, former Principal Local Government Auditor
3. Mr. Aaron Forde, C.E.O. Connacht Gold

had indicated their willingness to continue as external  Members of the Committee and that the Council was now requested to appoint the Audit Committee by nominating two serving or retired councillors for appointment and to approve of the County Manager’s nominations to the committee.  It was then,

10.  TO ESTABLISH AN AUDIT COMMITTEE:

Proposed by Councillor J. Leonard
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“to agree to the County Manager’s nominations to the Council’s Audit Committee as follows:

• Ms Ann Taheny, President St. Angela’s College
• Mr. Bill Walsh, former Principal Local Government Auditor
• Mr. Aaron Forde, C.E.O. Connacht Gold

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor J. Leonard

AND AGREED

“To appoint Mr Leo Conlon, former member to the Audit Committee”

Proposed by Councillor P. Barry
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan

AND AGREED

“To appoint Mr Aidan Colleary, former member to the Audit Committee”

11.  TO CONSIDER TAKEOVER OF GROUP WATER SCHEMES:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“That we hereby approve of the County Manager’s proposal to takeover waterworks from the Group Water Schemes listed hereunder, whose members have submitted a formal request in accordance with Section 95 of the Water Services Act, 2007.

• Carrentubber Group Water Scheme
• Lackagh Group Water Scheme
• Carrowcushacly  Group Water Scheme
• Cuilmore Group Water Scheme
• Ballyogan Group Water Scheme
• Newline Group Water Scheme

The takeover of the schemes is subject to submission of all the necessary documentation and payment of all outstanding water charges. The relevant take-over dates are to be agreed between the County Council and the relevant schemes”

12.  TO ADOPT THE HIGHER EDUCATION GRANT SCHEME, 2009:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

AND AGREED

“To request the Minister for Education to provide funds for Higher Education Grants to Sligo County Council so that applications for Grants can be paid at an early date”

43.  REQUEST THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION RE: ASSESSING H.E.G. APPLICATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“to adopt the Higher Education Grant Scheme for 2009”

It was agreed to take Item 43 at this time.

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“to ask the Minister for Education, Mr. Batt O’Keefe to allow accounts for the self-employed for 2008 to include an estimate of income for 2009 based on the experience of the first six months when assessing applications for Higher Education Grants in the current year.”

Councillor P. Barry asked to amend the motion to include “by showing comparable figures for the first six months of 2008 and 2009”.  This was agreed.

13.  NON PRINCIPAL PRIVATE RESIDENCE CHARGE:

Proposed by Councillor P. Mc Grath
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

“To note report on the implementation of the NPPR (Non Principal Private Residence Charge).

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager informed the meeting the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 introduced a €200 annual charge on non principal private residences, payable by the owner(s) of the NPPR to the Local Authority in whose area the property concerned is located and the onus was on the owner of the premises to determine whether they are liable to pay the charge. Further, that a late payment fee incurs after the 31st October, 2009. The Members asked for a report at the October Meeting outlining the % of monies coming into Sligo Local Authorities as compared to the national average.

14.  PROVIDE TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES  ON ROAD LEADING TO STRANDHILL AIRPORT:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan

“That the Council provide speed ramps and/or other traffic calming measures on the road linking Strandhill village with the Airport, particularly on the stretch of road adjacent to Lar Easa Cove housing estate”.

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There are no funds to carry out either traffic calming measures or speed ramp installation here in the current year.  This can be considered further at a relevant Sligo/Strandhill electoral area meeting.

It was agreed that item 20 be taken at this time.

20.  PROVIDE TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON BURMA ROAD, STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor J.McGarry
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

“That Sligo County Council agrees to install Speed Ramps and/ traffic calming measures on the Burma Road, Strandhill. This will ensure that the road becomes much safer for both motorists and pedestrians”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

In recent years a roundabout with traffic calming was installed at the top of the Burma Road which results in traffic calming there. At the bottom of it, there are ramps and a pedestrian crossing point.

The road also benefits from a footpath down along one side and there is also public lighting along it.

Any further works can be discussed at a Sligo/Strandhill Electoral Area Meeting within the context of the severe financial restrictions we are enduring at present.

15.  LICENSES ISSUED UNDER WATER POLLUTION ACTS:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

“To ask the County Manager how many licenses have been issued by the Council under the Water Pollution Acts in respect of the discharge of trade effluent and/or sewage effluent, and to ask what level of monitoring the Council has in place and what charge is sought by the Council as a contribution towards the cost incurred in monitoring the discharge, and to ask the Manager if he is satisfied with the level of monitoring that the Council carries out and if it complies with accepted standards and regulations”.

In response, Mr F. O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:

1. Number of Licences Issued To Date
   Number of Discharge Licences Issued under the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act 1977 as amended by the Local Government (Water Pollution)(Amendment) Act 1990.

   • Number of discharge to waters licences (issued under Section 4 of Water Pollution Act 1977 & 1990) - 28 licences issued to date.
   • Number of trade effluent discharge to sewer licences (issued under Section 16 of Water Pollution Act 1977 & 1990) – 69 (issued or in the application process).
   • A number of licences(22) issued by Sligo Borough Council in 2002/2003 are also currently on a Sligo Borough Council Discharge Licence Register. This work has been transferred over to the Environment Section of Sligo County Council. Some of these licences have been reviewed and new licences issued replacing the existing licences. 

   
   Sligo County Council (Environment Section) maintain a register of discharge to waters licences and discharge to sewer licences issued to date, in compliance with national regulations.
2. Application Fee
   The standard application fee for a discharge to sewer licence and discharge to waters licence is 380 euros and is set out in national regulations.
3. Monitoring Costs
   Discharge to sewer and discharge to waters licences contain a schedule of conditions relating to effluent discharges from the premises. Each licence contains a condition to cover or recoup local authority costs involved in monitoring the discharge licence.
   Monitoring costs for each licence are site specific.
   The local authority include a standard annual monitoring charge of 200 euros for commercial premises such as restaurants, petrol service stations, hotels, nursing homes etc discharging to the local authority sewer. Larger commercial premises where more frequent monitoring inspections are envisaged are conditioned to pay increased monitoring costs, again based on frequency of monitoring and the environmental risk associated with the development.
   The minimum monitoring charge conditioned in a discharge to water licence is 200 euros.
   Monitoring fees are charged having regard to the expenditure incurred.
   Licensees are invoiced on an annual basis and if no monitoring is carried out, the licensee will not be invoiced for any costs.
4. Monitoring Programme 
   Any inspections that are carried out are to accepted standards, however, the level of monitoring currently undertaken is not satisfactory due to limited resources available. 

16.  REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR HOUSING GRANTS:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“Recognising that the Government has no difficulty in providing billions of Euro in grant aid to the private banks, this Council calls on the Government and the Department of the Environment to provide sufficient funding to allow the Council to process and pay Housing Adaptation Grants for People with a Disability, Housing Aid for Older People Grants and Mobility Aids Grants, to eligible applicants”.

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services indicated the Council’s ongoing communications with the Department outlining the need for more funding which is under constant review.

Following discussion, it was;

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

AND AGREED

“That a deputation led by the Chairman of Sligo County Council meet with Minister Finneran in relation to housing adaptation grants”

17.  CARRY OUT SURVEY ON SEWERAGE LINE ON CHARLESTOWN ROAD, TUBBERCURRY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

“Due to the ongoing problems that exists on the sewerage line on the Charlestown Road, Tubbercurry at the Rectory that the sanitary services section carry out a detailed survey to establish the cause and take the necessary steps to have it rectified”

In response, Mr F. O’Driscoll, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:

Sligo County Council has inspected the public sewer network along the Charlestown Road in Tubbercurry and it is currently operating satisfactorily. The investigation of a blockage incident at the Rectory in 2008 resulted in the removal of sewer rods from the private sewer connection to this property. This investigation also indicated that this private sewer connection did not have sufficient self-cleansing gradient. The Council will continue to monitor the operation of the public sewer network at this location on an ongoing basis.

18.  COUNTY COUNCIL OWNED PROPERTY:

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

“To ask the Director of Services to give a brief outline on how much property Sligo County Council own in the County, i.e. Land and Buildings

In response, Ms. Marie Leydon, Head of Finance stated the following:

The most comprehensive information relating to property owned by Sligo County Council can be obtained from the Councils fixed asset system.
Outlined below are values of fixed assets owned by Sligo County Council as at the 31st December 2008. These values are derived from Note 1 – Fixed Assets of the Annual Financial Statement for 2008. The values listed below are for the following categories of fixed assets:

• Housing
• Buildings
• Land
• Road Network
• Water and Sewerage Network

Housing

Accumulated Costs @ 31st December 2008 €107,126,684
Number of houses in Sligo County Councils Housing Stock     996

Buildings

Accumulated Costs @ 31st December 2008 €104,205,434
Buildings owned by Sligo County Council can be categorised as follows:

• Office Accommodation
• Fire Stations
• Courthouses
• Libraries
• Museums and Art Galleries
• Machinery Yard and adjoining stores

Land

Accumulated Costs @ 31st December 2008   €15,795,751
These accumulated costs relating to land can be categorised as follows:

• Car Parks
• Burial Grounds
• Land for future use

Road Network

Accumulated Costs @ 31st December 2008 €1,129,130,000

Water and Sewerage Network

Accumulated Costs @ 31st December 2008 €247,432,244

19.  SOCIAL HOUSING IN DROMORE WEST:

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

“To ask the Director of Services to indicate when Social Housing in Dromore West will be ready for allocating”

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

The 12 No Social Houses currently being constructed at Dromore West are due to be complete at the end of September 2009. The Houses will be allocated directly after this date.  We are currently awaiting Department Approval in relation to transferring some of our affordable houses into social housing stock.  It was then

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

AND AGREED

“That the Children of Dromore West National School be given the opportunity to name the New Housing Estate in Dromore West, and that the School Principal be informed of this”

Before this motion was moved, the Cathaoirleach informed the Meeting that he was ruling the motion out of order having got legal opinion that this item should not be discussed.  It was then

21.  LISADELL HOUSE:

Proposed by Councillor McGarry
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

“To ask the County Manager for an update on the High Court case taken against the Council by the Owners of Lissadell, and to ask the County Manager why the Council Defence was not ready on 20th April in the High Court, so that the Judge indicated that the Council had delayed the proceedings, when we were told at the Council Meeting of 6th April, that the Council had a strong prima facie defence, and that the defence would be filed?”

Councillor McGarry asked to be circulated with the legal advice, indicating he did not think his motion was out of order.

Following discussions, the Cathaoirleach adjourned the meeting until 2pm.  Following the resumption of the meeting, legal advice was circulated to the Members.  The meeting agreed to respect the ruling of the Cathaoirleach and proceeded to the next item on the Agenda.

22.  STAFFING LEVELS AT SLIGO GENERAL HOSPITAL:

Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commits itself to fully supporting the Nurses of Sligo General Hospital in their campaign to increase staffing levels, since 2007 Sligo General Hospital has lost 65 Nurses and is now expected to operate and function with a serious staffing deficit.  This needs to be addressed so that the best care and attention can be provided to patients by front-line staff”

23.  IMPROVE JOYCE’S CROSS JUNCTION ON N59:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to improve the junction on the N59, turn off for Dromore West National School, Tubbercurry known locally as Joyce’s Cross, and to incorporate a separate lane for traffic turning right coming from the Ballina direction”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

This matter is being examined by the Area Engineer and can be further discussed at the next Enniscrone Electoral Area Meeting within the context of the severe financial restrictions we are enduring at present.

24.  IMPROVE ROAD SAFETY AT SKREEN/DROMARD COMMUNITY CENTRE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

“To call on Sligo County Council to improve road safety at Skreen/Dromard Community Centre and to provide yellow rippled road makings, flashing amber lights and speed cameras”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There are no funds available at present to carry out any further work at this location. Signage and lining were put in place here some time ago.

25.  REPLACE FOOTPATHS AT ABBY DRIVE, BALLISODARE AND CASTLE HEIGHTS, EASKEY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

“To call on Sligo County Council to replace footpaths at Abby Drive Ballisodare and Castle Heights Easkey”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

A small amount of funds are available this year for some footpath work at Ballisodare but no funds are available for works at Easkey, which can be considered next year.

28.  REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO REVERSE CLOSURE OF REPS 4 DECISION:

Proposed by Councillor M. Barrett
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That this Council call on the Minister for Agriculture to reverse his decision to close REPS 4 to all new applicants as well as those completing their current 5-year REPS contract”

29.  CONSIDER REDUCTION IN COMMERCIAL RATES IN 2010 ESTIMATES:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan
Seconded by Councillor I. Henry

“To ask the County Manager, in light of the current economic difficulties facing the small and family business that the Manager and the Executive of Sligo County Council consider a reduction in the commercial rates in the 2010 book of estimates”

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager indicated that this was a matter for the Members and should be considered at the Budget Meeting.

30.   REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT THE FAMILY RESOURSE CENTRE IN SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“Sligo County Council calls on the Government to support the Family Resource Centre Programme and, in particular, the four Family Resource Centres based in County Sligo. We support the three campaign principles of the Family Resource Centre National Forum, which are:

• The Family Resource Centre programme delivers a value-for-money support for families across Ireland.  At times of financial hardship, the services of Family Resource Centres will be needed more than ever. Rather than considering closing or reducing the FRC programme, it should be developed and expanded.
• The Family Resource Agency is the best vehicle to deliver the Family Resource Centre programme and the Agency should be maintained.
• If any changes are to be made to the FRC programme or Family Support Agency, the Family Resource Centre National Forum must be consulted on the way forward.”

31.  DEVELOPMENT CHARGES LEVIED ON RURAL HOUSES:

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

“In relation to development charges levied on rural dwellings being constructed, which are not connected to water or sewerage services provided by Sligo County Council, that those developments be exempt from the charges relating to provision of community services including libraries, lighting, footpaths etc”.

In response, Mr J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer stated the following:

The background to this motion is as follows.

The Enforcement Section is currently dealing with a number of requests from developers to write-off contributions in respect of developments where well bores are now being proposed in lieu of connecting to the public water supply. Well bores are being proposed because of savings envisaged in the cost of boring a well (estimated €2000 – €3000) as against payment of the development contributions –average €6,500 per house.

The write-off request is based on the following section of the Development Contributions Scheme.

“Where neither public water supply nor public waste water facilities are available to service a development no financial contribution will be payable”.

My interpretation of this Section of the Scheme is that it is not applicable in cases, where connection to the public supply is available, but where the developer chooses not to avail of it. In such cases the water facility element of the development charges has been written off and I have continued to seek payment in respect of
a) the Town/Village Improvements, car parking/roads, b) the Libraries, Museum and Community/Cultural development elements.  These elements account for 50% of the development contribution levy.  The Council would not be in favour of the wording proposed by Cllr Fleming for a number of reasons.

1. It would result in a substantial loss of income to the Council on an ongoing basis, average of €6,500 per house, as developers would bore wells in lieu of connecting to the public water supply.
2. there is already a shortfall in funding, especially in relation to funding for community projects.
3. there would be concerns as the water supply is unregulated with no way of ensuring a supply of safe drinking water to the premises and also the possible future contamination of wells.

Following discussion, it was;

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

“That the system that existed up to now whereby applicants in the rural areas who opt to drill a well for their own water supply are exempt from development contributions”

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager asked the Members to defer the motions to the next meeting of the Council to allow the Council time to obtain legal advice in relation to the matter.

It was then agreed that both motions be deferred to the October meeting.

32.  REQUEST GOVERNMENT TO ROLLOUT BROADBAND IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“Broadband Service in County Sligo can provide much needed benefits to individuals and communities.  I request Sligo County Council to request Minister Eamonn Ryan to confirm a plan for the rollout of the service for Sligo, including timescale, service providers, etc”

In response, Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated that there is a working group comprising of Enterprise Ireland, VEC and the Local Authorities currently in contact with the Department of Communications in relation to the rollout of Broadband in Sligo and in particular any concealed blackspots in the County.

33.  TO REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO FUND COUNTY ROADS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor M.Gormley

AND AGREED

“In the light of current budgetary constraints, to request the Minister for the Environment and Transport to allocate the maximum funding possible to maintain County Roads”

34.  REPLACE PIPES IN THE MONASTERADEN AREA:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor G. Murray

“Due to the ongoing disruptions to the water supply to the Cloonloo, Gurteen, Monasteraden and surrounding areas due to deficient pipes in the Monasteraden area, that this Council take immediate steps to have these pipes replaced”

In response, Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer  stated the following:

The watermains in the Gurteen, Monasteraden and Cloonloo areas were assessed as part of the Sligo Water Conservation and Network Management Project and a prioritized schedule of mains rehabilitation works has been compiled and submitted to the Department for funding approval. A section of watermain along the R294, Gurteen to Boyle road has received advance funding from the Department to facilitate the completion of road works at this location. The replacement of this section of watermain is now substantially complete.

The water in the Gurteen, Monasteraden and Cloonloo areas of south Sligo is supplied by Roscommon County Council from the North Roscommon Water Supply Scheme. The recent disruptions to the South Sligo Water Supply have been as a result of bursts on the rising main from the county boundary to the storage reservoir near Monasteraden. The Council have carried out modifications to the pumping arrangements for this supply as a result of initial investigations and we are continuously monitoring the water supply into the South Sligo area. A detailed assessment of the existing water supply infrastructure in this area will be completed in the coming weeks and additional remedial action will be instigated if required.

35.  DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTIONS OFFSET AGAINST WORKS OVER PAST FIVE YEARS:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

“That the Council be provided with a full report on all developments in the past five years where the County Manager agreed to off set development contributions against works carried out by developers, including the planning file numbers; the amount of development levies offset in each case; the work undertaken by the developer and to ask if quotations were sought from other contractors in respect of the works, and further to ask if the allocation of monies collected from development levies is a reserved function of the elected Council or an Executive function of the County Manager.”

Members were circulated with a copy of the report as follows:

The cost of the works was agreed with the developer in each case, and, in lieu of direct payment to the developer, the costs were set off, in part, against Development Contributions owed by the developer to the Council.  

The developer, in relation to PL 04/520, sought tenders for laying the storm water pipe-line.  The lowest tenderer was awarded the contract.  The costs associated with the contract were approved by the relevant section and the costs were proportioned on the development potential benefiting both the developer and Sligo County Council. 

This set off figure above is based on certified costs to date in respect of these works.  A final certificate is awaited and an additional sum may also be set off when the final costs are agreed.  

Finally, the adoption of a Development Contribution Scheme is a reserved function of the Members.  The level of Development Contributions is set out in the Scheme and includes the % of the contribution to be applied to the various classes of public infrastructure and facilities.  The allocation of the Development Contributions to the various capital projects being undertaken by the Council which the Members would have approved is thereafter an executive function.  Members are to note that a report on the Development Contribution Scheme is provided to them each year with the Draft Budget. 

26.  UPDATE ON BALLYMOTE AREA OFFICE/LIBRARY AND H.S.E. FACILITIES:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update regarding the Ballymote Area Office/Library and the HSE facilities”

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

Work is progressing on the delivery of these facilities –

• Area Office /HSE Facilities - Final drawings and layouts have been prepared and are currently being priced.  This will go to HSE for their final approval.  Progress is subject to final agreements/approvals being put in place with the HSE and landlord.
• Library - Sligo County Council has sought expressions of interest for Contractors to go on an approved tender list for the 12 weeks work to fit out the library building.  This tender list will close on 8th September.  The proposed layout for the library is now finalised and the project design team are in the process of preparing tender documentation in respect of same.  The Part 8 process is underway and the closing date for receipt of submissions/observations is the 23rd September.  This will go to Members at the October meeting. 

27.  PROPOSED NEW FIRE STATION AT BALLYMOTE:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“To ask Sligo County Council for an update on Ballymote Fire Station.”

In response, Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Services stated the following:

Tenders were sought for Ballymote Fire Station with a closing date of 24th August.  The original schedule of tenders was opened on 25th August.  28 submissions were received.  An appraisal of the Contractors Suitability Assessment Questionnaires has commenced.  Following completion of the Tender Report approval of the tender will be sought from the Department.

36.  RAPID RESPONSE VEHICLE IN SOUTH SLIGO:

This item was withdrawn with the agreement of the meeting.

37.  REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT THE FAMILY RESOURSE CENTRE IN SLIGO:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

38.  ABSENSE OF AMBULANCE BASE IN SOUTH SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“Due to the absence of an ambulance base in South Sligo that this Council calls on the HSE to have the Rapid Response Vehicle Retained in the area”

39.  PROVIDE FUNDING FOR FOOTPATHS AND LIGHTING AT ATHVALID, BALLINTOGHER, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“I would like to ask Sligo County Council to provide funding for 200 metres of footpaths, plus provision of street lighting at Athvalid, Ballintogher, Co. Sligo”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There are no funds available in the current year for the provision of footpaths and street lighting at Altvelid, Ballintogher.  This motion can be considered at the Ballymote Electoral Area Meeting prior to the adoption of the Roadworks Scheme, 2010.

40.  REQUEST COILLTE TO ERECT DEER FENCE AT GLENAGOALS:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“I would like to ask Sligo County Council to make enquiries with Coillte to erect an 8ft high deer fence from the Gleanagoals towards Ballygawley area”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

It is proposed as requested to consult Coillte in relation to this matter to examine the feasibility of carrying out the work.

41.  PROVIDE FUNDING TO ALLEVIATE FLOODING AT KIERAN AVE, COOLOONEY:

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“I would like to ask Sligo County Council to allow funding for 60 metres of piping plus 3 grates at Kieran Avenue, Collooney to stop house flooding”
In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There are no funds available to carry out this work at present but the Area Engineer will examine the area in relation to possible flooding of a house.

42.  REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PAY SINGLE FARM PAYMENT EARLY:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Brendan Smith to bring forward the Single Farm Payment to October 1st in light of the severe financial and weather related difficulties being experienced by farmers.”

44.  PRIORITISE ROADS REMOVED FROM THE 2009 ROADS PROGRAMME:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

“To call on the Director of Services for Infrastructure to prioritise the roads that were removed from the 2009 Programme for immediate attention in 2010.”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The roads to be funded for restoration and improvement in 2010, depends on what funding will be provided in 2010. The roads that were not included in the 2009 program will receive priority and will be discussed at Area Meetings prior to the adoption of the 2010 Road Works Scheme.

45.  REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT NOT TO ESTABLISH NATIONAL ASSESTS MANAGEMENT AGENCEY (NAMA):

As there was no seconder for this item, the Motion fell.

46.  RE-OCCURING WATER MAINS PROBLEMS IN SOUTH SLIGO:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

47.  PROVIDE FUNDING FOR TRAFFIC CALMING AT WOODBROOK HEIGHTS, BALLISODARE, CO SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

“To ask the Director of Services if funding will be provided as a matter of urgency for the provision of traffic calming measures in Woodbrook Heights Estate in Ballisodare in the interests of the safety of its residents”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

No funding is available in the current year for traffic calming measures at Woodbrook Heights in Ballisodare but the matter can be discussed further at an Electoral Area Meeting in due course.

48.  WIDEN BRIDGE BETWEEN COOLANEY VILLAGE AND ROCKFIELD:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke

“To ask Sligo County Council if there are any plans in place to have the bridge widened on Road No. 4, between Coolaney Village and Rockfield in the interests of the safety of pedestrians and motorists, and that the work could be carried out as a matter of urgency”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

There are no funds available to widen this bridge on Co. Road 4 adjacent to Coolaney Village. However, our Bridge Design section will examine it and prepare a report.

49.  PROVIDE FUNDING FOR TRAFFIC CALMING IN FORT HAVEN ESTATE, COOLANEY:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

“To ask the Director of Services if funding will be provided as soon as possible for the installation of traffic calming measures in Fort Haven estate in Coolaney, due to the dangers imposed on the residents by speeding cars in the estate.”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

The issue of speeding cars is really a matter for An Garda Siochana. This particular estate has not yet been taken over by Sligo County Council.

50.  REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO RETAIN RURAL GARDA STATONS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Minister for Justice to retain and upgrade rural Garda Stations”

51.  PROCEED WITH WORKS ON ROAD 290:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

52.  PROVIDE STREET LIGHTING AT CHURCH OF IRELAND, BALLYSADARE, CO. SLIGO:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

53.  CUTBACK HEDGES/GRASS VERGES ON SECONDARY ROADS:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

54.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Proposed by Councillor M. Fleming
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to John & Chris Heneghan on the death of your son, Padraig.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Susan Heneghan on the death of her husband, Padraig”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Sean P. Gallagher on the death of his Mother, Jean”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Henry on the death of her brother, Kevin McDonnell”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Geraldine Doohan on the death of her brother, John Waters”

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor T. Collery

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Bernadette Owens on the death of her husband, Eamon.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tom & Tony Gallagher on the death of their mother, Kathleen”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tony Clancy on the death of his father, Michael James”

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paula Farry on the death of her husband, Pat”

55.  VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor D. Healy McGowan

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to Marty Dufffy on being selected to Referee this year’s All Ireland Football Final”

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to James Cahill, on his recent retirement”

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Fleming

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to Coolaney Tidy Towns Committee on winning 1st place in the tidy towns awards for County Sligo”

Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor M. Barrett

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to Sinead McGill on representing County Sligo for the first time in the International Rose of Tralee Festival, 2009”

Proposed by Councillor G. Murray
Seconded by Councillor P. Barry

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to all the Sligo prize winners in Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in Tullamore recently”

56.  CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That the list of Conferences circulated for September at this meeting was unanimously approved”

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“to nominate Councillor G. Murray to visit the U.S. to meet representatives of the Sligo Associations and Sligo Communities with a view to increasing co-operation and mutual support.  The visit is also to explore ways of improving business, tourism and cultural links between Sligo communities at home and in the United States”

The meeting ended at 4.30pm.