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

MEMBERS PRESENT:

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

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

• Mr H. Kearns, County Manager
• 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 J. Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
• Mr S. O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer
• Ms. E. Concannon, Senior Executive Engineer
• Mr Declan Cawley, Executive Engineer
• Ms F. Loughlin, Staff Officer
• Mr F. Mac Nabb, Meetings Administrator
  

CATHAOIRLEACH:

• The Cathaoirleach, Councillor G. Murray presided.
  

1. MINUTES OF THE  NOVEMBER ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 9TH NOVEMER, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the November Ordinary Meeting held on the 9th November, 2009”

2. MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 2ND NOVEMBER, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Special Meeting held on 2nd November, 2009”

3. MINUTES OF THE DROMORE WEST AREA MEETING HELD ON 21ST SEPTEMBER, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Dromore West Area Meeting held on the 21st September, 2009”

4. MINUTES OF THE SUB-COMMITTEE MEETIMNG HELD ON 16TH NOVEMBER, 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To confirm the minutes of the Sub Committee Meeting  held on 16th November, 2009

5. TAKING IN CHARGE OF HOUSING ESTATE ‘CLOONDARA’, BALLISODARE, CO SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

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

6. WATER SERVICES INVESTMENT PROGRAMME – NEEDS ASSESSMENT 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“To note the Water Services Investment Programme – Needs Assessment 2009 report”

7. TO ELECT ONE MEMBER TO THE BOARD OF THE SLIGO VOLUNTEER CENTRE:

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To elect Councillor I. Henry to the Board of the Sligo Volunteer Centre”

8. TO ELECT FOUR PERSONS TO THE COUNTY SLIGO VEC:

It was agreed to defer this item until 3pm.

9. DEVELOPMENT CHARGERS LEVIED ON RURAL HOUSES:

This item was withdrawn by the Proposer with agreement of the meeting.

11. PROJECTS FUNDED BY FÁILTE IRELAND:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the Meeting.

13. CARRY OUT WORKS AT ROSSES POINT PROMENADE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Lyons
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

“To ask the Director of Services to have the following works carried out at Rosses Point Promenade:

• Complete kerbing around the green areas at the Promenade and Village Road
• Erect green and white poles to indicate the entrances from the Promenade to the village
• Remove tree stump from area known as Kelly's Garden at the Promenade
• Replace broken wooden fences in the village”

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

1. The completion of kerbing around the green areas at Rosses Point while desirable cannot be carried out due to lack of funding. The Area Engineer will prepare an estimate for the work for your consideration at the next Sligo/Drumcliffe Electoral Area Meeting.
2. Suitable delineator posts can be erected at the entrances to the Promenade from the village and the Area Engineer will examine the situation on site so as to proceed with the work.
3. The Area Engineer will examine the tree stump to determine whether it lies on public property and to examine the feasibility of its removal.
4. The broken wooden fences will be examined and repaired as soon as possible.

It was agreed that items 14, 41 and 46 be taken together.

14. HAZELWOOD HOUSE:

Proposed by Councillor M. Lyons
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

“To ask the Director of Services, what progress has been made following the latest meeting with the Planning Department and the Foresthaze company regarding the essential works to be carried out on Hazelwood House, as laid out in the Section 59 order that has been imposed on the company.”

41. HAZELWOOD HOUSE:

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

“To ask this Council for an update on the process of ensuring that the repairs to Hazelwood House are carried out”

46. HAZELWOOD HOUSE:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor  T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“To ask the County Manager if the works as required in the Notice issued under Section 59 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, in respect of Hazelwood House have been carried out and to ask what is the current position relating to the matter.”

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

The company in question made a submission to the Council on 6th November 2009 in relation to a schedule of works to be carried out in response to the Section 59 Notice. 

This submission has been agreed with the Council and a new Section 59 Notice was served on the company on 26th November 2009.  The company has been given 8 weeks to carry out the works, under the supervision of a suitably qualified person.

Notwithstanding the above, the file is to be sent to the Council’s legal advisor for failure to comply with the earlier Section 59 Notice.
Members asked for an update report at the January, 2010 meeting.

It was agreed that items 15, 16, 24 and 40 be taken together.

15. JOB LOSSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Healy McGowan,
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“To empathise with the loss of 250 jobs at Stiefel in Sligo”

16. JOB LOSSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor P. McGrath
Seconded by Councillor M. Lyons

AND AGREED

“Due to the recent spate of job losses in County Sligo, to call on the Government to start addressing the problem of the retention of existing  jobs both locally and nationally”

24. JOB LOSSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor G. Mullaney
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms Mary Coughlan to set up a high level specific task force to examine employment options in light of the recent job losses in Sligo”

40. JOB LOSSES IN COUNTY SLIGO:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council seek an urgent meeting with the Minister for Trade and Employment and IDA representatives to address the recent job losses in Sligo”

A general discussion took place on these items, it was then

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council write to our EU Representatives to immediately seek to amend the regulations of the European  Globalisation Fund to include the B.M.W. Region so as to assist Sligo in accessing these funds”

Proposed by Councillor T. McLoughlin
Seconded by Councillor M. Gormley

AND AGREED

“That the Minister, Ms Mary Coughlan T.D, be invited to address Sligo County Council regarding the job losses in the Sligo Region and also that IDA Representatives be asked to meet with Sligo County Council Representative and Enterprise Ireland”

10. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PUBLISH THE NATIONAL CARERS STRATEGY:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council call on the Taoiseach and Minister for Social and Family Affairs to publish the National Carers Strategy as committed to in the Social Partnership Agreement - Towards 2016 and in the Programme for Government, as a matter of principal”

12. SUPPORT MOTION REGARDING MORTGAGE AND REPOSSESSION SCHEME:

Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council supports the Labour Party’s private Member’s motion calling on the Government to bring forward a Moratorium Scheme that would provide for a minimum period of 24 months from the time that mortgages first go into arrears, before repossession proceedings can be taken where a borrower makes reasonable efforts to meet their obligations to pay the Mortgage on a principal private residence.”

17. PROVIDE A 25-YEAR LEASE TO BALLYMOTE COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE:

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

“That Sligo County Council would grant a 25 year lease of the property known as the Abbey Cinema, Teeling Street, Ballymote to Ballymote Community Enterprise Limited at a nominal rent. The property will be restored by Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd and held in trust for the benefit of the local community. The centre will be used for the purpose of promoting and developing theatre, cinema, music, arts, and culture in the community and local schools. A detailed feasibility study has been carried out by the Enterprise Company, together with costings (see attached document), and an assessment of the ability of the Enterprise Company to raise the necessary finance has also been completed. Once the lease with the council is in place the funding for the project will be ratified. The restoration project will take 12 months to complete. Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with charitable status, (register number CHY11108.)”

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

The Abbey Cinema building was purchased by the Council some years back for the purpose of establishing a branch library there.  As the new library facility is to be established at another location the cinema building is no longer required for this purpose.

The Feasibility Study is being considered at present.  If the feasibility study is satisfactory and if the required funding can be sourced by the Community Company, a formal proposal under Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 can be brought before the Council in the New Year recommending that a 25 year lease be approved for Ballymote Community Enterprise Company Ltd.

21. IMPROVE SIGNAGE IN STRANDHILL AREA:

Proposed by Councillor J. McGarry
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

“That Sligo County Council commits to improving signage in the Strandhill area to make it more accessible to Tourists and to draw attention to all the amenities the area has to offer”

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

The Area Engineer will examine signage in the Strandhill Area with a view to improving tourist accessibility. An estimate will be prepared for discussion at a meeting of the members for the Sligo/Strandhill Electoral Area.

However, no funding is immediately identifiable for this purpose.

22. PROVIDE PLAYGROUND FACILITIES AT STRANDHILL:

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

“That Sligo County Council investigates the cost of providing Playground facilities at Strandhill to add to the Recreational Amenities which already exist there. This will also enhance it’s desirability as a tourist location for families”

In response, Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated the following:

Sligo County Council has undertaken an initial investigation in line with Notice of Motion and the cost of introducing playground facilities at Strandhill adding to the recreational amenities which already exist there introduces a number of issues, namely;

Site

1. The site of the current facilities, incorporating football pitches and an all weather astro surface is owned by the Strandhill Community Park Ltd. Their consent would be required to allow a playground to proceed.
2. Adjacent land to the west is zoned community facilities, owned by Sligo County Council, and currently negotiations are underway with various stakeholders to achieve resolution of all issues, to deliver recreational facilities on the site. The Strandhill/Coolera Sports and Community Development Group, a sub-committee of the Strandhill Community Development Association continue to work in partnership with Sligo County Council to deliver facilities on this site.
3. Adjacent lands to the South of the existing recreational facilities are owned by the Strandhill Tourist Development Association, with a caravan and camping facility on their site.

Cost

Typical costs for the delivery of a playground range from €100-200,000 depending on site development costs, extent of facilities provided e.g. incorporating a MUGA (multi utility games area) which exists at Doorly Park.

Other issues include Planning, Environment and community consultation. Playground facilities primarily respond to community demand and may conflict with tourism objective regarding site location and community usage.

23. PROVIDE SAFETY MEASURES AT BALLYFREE, CARROWKEEL:

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

“To ask the County Manager what safety measures do Sligo County Council intend putting in place at Ballyfree Carrowkeel, in light of all the accidents that have occurred there over the last number of years”

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

It is proposed to improve this junction by providing and erecting extensive signage, installing lining and road markings on the road surface and enhancing the road surface itself to provide greater skid resistance at the location, using funding from the Low Cost Accident Scheme.

25. PROVIDE TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON R284:

Proposed by Councillor S. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor J. McGarry

“That Sligo County Council would provide traffic calming measures to the R284 Carraroe/Ballygawley road adjacent to Jinks Cross, Drumiskibole. Such works would include traffic islands, all necessary signage and appropriate road markings”

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

This crossroads will be examined with a view to improving safety there. The measures suggested by Councillor McManus will all be examined and an estimate shall be prepared for resultant recommended works. This can then be discussed at an Area Meeting so that the relevant funding, if any, can be identified.

29. PROVIDE IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT DUNALLY JUNCTION ON N16:

Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

“That this Council prioritise improvement works on the N16 at Dunally Junction with the NRA on health and safety grounds and ask engineering staff of the council to prepare a supporting report”

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

Works were carried out here, under a Low Cost Accident Scheme a couple of years ago resulting in improved signage, provision of anti-skid surface and improved sightlines. The Road Design department will carry out a further examination of the area in conjunction with the NRA to see if anything further can be done within the constraints of the current financial situation.

30. REDUCE RISK OF FLOODING ON OWENMORE RIVER:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure if this Council made an application to the OPW for funding to carry out works on the Owenmore River to reduce the risk of flooding?”

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

The funds currently available for the Owenmore Drainage Scheme in the Ballymote and Tubbercurry Areas come from our own resources and excellent work has been carried out over the last number of years. It is hoped to continue this work next year.  No special funding has recently been sought from the OPW to carry out any major works however.

Mr H. Kearns, County Manager indicated that funding was available through the OPW for flood relief schemes already approved by the Government. Mr T. Kilfeather advised that the OPW would be contacted again in relation to seeking funding.

31. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE GARDA STATION IN STRANDHILL:

This item was deferred with the agreement of the meeting.

32. PROVIDE CRASH BARRIERS ON R294:

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

“To request the Council to erect crash barriers and more Chevrons on R294 east of Lough Talt in the interest of road safety”

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

The erection of crash barriers and chevrons along the R294 east of Lough Talt can be included in your proposals for consideration under the Discretionary Improvement Grant 2010.

33. RE-EXAMINE ALL SAC’S ALONG RIVERS:

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

“To ask that all special areas of conservation (SAC’s) along rivers be re-examined in view of the recent heavy rainfall and severe flooding and that all rivers in the county be drained and deepened”

It was agreed that items 34 and 36 be taken together.

34. BOTHAR FUND RAISING FESTIVAL IN TUBBERCURRY:

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

“I will ask the Director of Services for Community and Enterprise to provide funding in the 2010 estimates for a major tourist/walking festival to be held next August in Tubbercurry and Sligo”

36. BOTHAR FUND RAISING FESTIVAL IN TUBBERCURRY:

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

“Bóthar are a major charitable organisation who propose to organise a 3-day fundraising walk in South Sligo next year, which can become an Annual Tourist attraction for the area.  I request that this project be financially supported by Sligo County Council by including €5,000 in the Estimates”

In response to both motions, Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated the following:

Sligo County Council is aware of the recent proposal by Bóthar to deliver a fundraising walking festival event hosted in the Tubbercurry area in August 2010. A request for €5,000 was sought in support of the festival event, which is expected to receive national media attention.

The event will attract 60/70 persons who will walk in three locations around Sligo;

• The Ox Mountains
• The Dartry Mountains (also Knocknarea)
• The Curlews Mountains

The event is expected to fundraise approx. €90,000 for Bóthar.

Bóthar is a charitable organisation founded in 1991 and which uses livestock in its Development Aid Projects.

Sligo County Council works closely with the Ox Mountain Development Company, situated in South Sligo, Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership, The National Trails Office, Sligo Leader, Sligo Walks Advisory Group (S.W.A.G) and Fáilte Ireland to promote and encourage recreational walking along the popular way-marked routes, The Sligo Way and The Miner’s Way, amongst other walking locations.  Sligo County Council will support the Bóthar fundraising walking festival in conjunction with the relevant agencies above.

There is no provision in the Community and Enterprise Department budget for funding of walks/festivals, other than a small amount for maintenance of some trails.  However, the Community and Enterprise Department can prioritise support marketing of the event through its existing Fáilte Ireland match funding allocation proposals for 2010.

Any allocation would introduce a new budget line in 2010 and there is no scope for new areas of expenditure in the draft estimates.  The adoption of the estimates is a matter for the elected members.

35. REQUEST IARNROD EIREANN TO PROVIDE ONLINE TICKETS AT BALLYMOTE STATION:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on Iarnrod Eireann to honour the commitment made by Mr Barry Kenny to have online ticket facilities available at Ballymote Station”.

26. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT  TO TRANSFER RIVER MAINTENANCE TO LOCAL AUTHORITY:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the Minister for Environment to transfer the responsibility for maintenance of all the rivers in the county to the local authority and allocate funding on a yearly basis to finance the up keep of these rivers”

27. ALLOCATE FUNDING FOR VILLAGE ENHANCEMENT SCHEMES:

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

“To ask the County Manager to allocate funding in the 2010 Estimates for Village Enhancement Schemes”

In response Ms. R. McNulty, Director of Services stated the following:

The Urban and Village Renewal Programme funded by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in the past is no longer in operation.  Funding for Village Enhancement is provided by the Rural Development Programme through the Sligo LEADER Partnership Company (SLPCo).

The Community and Enterprise Department in Sligo County Council is working with the SLPCo. in delivering all relevant aspects of the Rural Development Programme, including village enhancement.  Sligo County Council can provide support by way of in-kind contributions to village enhancement schemes.  No funding line is currently in place for village enhancement. 

In the preparation of the 2010 estimates, cuts have been applied in an attempt to manage the budgetary situation.  However, the adoption of the estimates is a reserved function.

28. IMPROVE WATER PRESSURE IN EASKEY AND KILGLASS:

Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor J. Devins

“To ask the Director of Services to indicate when will the water pressure improve in Castle Heights, Easkey and at Ballyglass, Kilglass”

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

The water supply pressure in Castle Heights, Easkey is in accordance with recommended levels, however, localised restrictions in the water distribution network in the area result in reduced flows at the consumers’ tap. The Council is carrying out a program of air pressure scouring on the network to alleviate this problem. This work will continue over the coming weeks until acceptable service levels are restored.

The management of the water supply pressure in Ballyglass, Kilglass is being affected by a number of faulty air valves in the local distribution network. These air valves are programmed for replacement and it is anticipated that this work will be completed in the coming weeks.

18. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO CONDEMN PLANS FOR NUCLEAR REACTORS ON IRISH SEA:

Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“To call on the Council to write to the British and Irish Governments condemning and opposing  British Government plans to build 7 Nuclear reactors on their west coast on the Irish Sea”

45. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR SURVEY OF LEAD PIPES:

Proposed by Councillor V. Cawley
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council apply for funding to the Department of the Environment to fund the carrying out a full survey on drinking water lead piping on houses throughout Sligo City and other areas of the County that have lead piping”

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

Sligo County Council has completed a desktop survey of lead piping in Sligo City and County based on available records and local knowledge of the water distribution network. The results of this survey are currently being mapped and will be published on the Council’s website in accordance with the recommendations from the Environmental Protection Agency.

The Environment section of the Council have carried out targeted water quality monitoring based on this desktop survey and all compliance monitoring samples now taken on public water supplies are also checked for the lead parametric value as outlined in the Drinking Water Regulations. Relevant consumers have been notified of any exceedances of the lead parametric value in accordance with the advice received from the Health Service Executive. This advice has also been posted on the Council’s website.

 The Council has submitted an application to the Department for funding to replace lead service pipes on the public water supply network. The Department has advised in the 2009 Needs Assessment Circular L6/09 that the issue of replacement of lead piping in the public water supply network is to be considered in the context of funding for Water Conservation Stage 3 – Mains Rehabilitation works.

The Environment Protection Agency has also issued a lead guidance circular which defines responsibility for the public and private elements of lead service connections. This circular also recommends the implementation of an action programme to remove lead service connections in the public water supply network. The Council has proposed an element of funding in the Draft Budget 2010 in order to commence this action programme during 2010.

8. TO ELECT FOUR PERSONS TO COUNTY SLIGO VEC – TWO MALE, TWO FEMALE:

It was agreed that item 8 be taken at this time and that the election be carried out by secret ballot with Mr T. Kilfeather, Director of Services and Mr F. MacNabb, Meetings Administrator acting as Tellers.  The meeting agreed to take the vote to elect the two females members first.

The result of the ballot was as follows:

15 for Sharon Boles, 13 for Mollie Lee, 12 for Patricia O’Malley, 8 for Marian Farrell-Moore, 2 for Breffini Gorman.
The result of the second vote was as follows:

16 for Seamus Kilgannon, 13 for Paul Conmy, 10 for Daniel McGarrigle, 9 for Seamus Dolan.

The Cathaoirleach declared Sharon Boles, Mollie Lee, Seamus Kilgannon and Paul Conmy elected to the County Sligo Vocational Education Committee.

19. REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT NOT TO CUT SOCIAL WELFARE:

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

AND AGREED

“To call on the County Council to write to the Minister for Finance and demand that he does not cut social welfare payments in the budget”

20. REQUEST REPORT ON THE N59:

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

“To call on the Council for a report regarding the N59

1. What funds was spent in 2009
2. What funds can we expect to receive in 2010
3. What visible improvements will we see on the ground in 2010”

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

1. The following works have been carried out on National Route N59 this year:-

   N59 Annual Resurfacing at Dromore West and Ballymoghany	€57,735
   N59 Pavement Improvements	€200,000
   N59 RSRM Ballisodare	€40,000
   N59 Upkeep	€116,070
   N59 Winter Maintenance	€48,000
   N59 Bridge Maintenance	€18,800
   N59 Route Lighting	€13,600
   Total	€393,905

2. It is expected that funding for N59 in 2010 will be somewhat less than 2009.
3. Visible improvements on N59 in 2010 may consist of some more surface improvements especially in areas where there are undulations, poor skid resistance etc.
   

37. OPPOSE THE PLANNING BILL 2009:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council opposes the planning bill 2009 being introduced by the Minister for the Environment in the Houses of the Oireachtas and call on TD’s and Senators to amend sections of the bill aimed at centralising decision making, thus reducing the power of local government”

38. CARRY OUT IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON R294:

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

“To request the N.R.A. and Minister for Transport to allocate funding in the 2010 roads programme to carry out improvement works on road R294 and 448.2 at Gorterslin including drainage of surface water”

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

The R294 at Gorterslin is included in the Regional Road Restoration Program and is likely to be funded in 2010.

Local Road L47022 however is unlikely to be funded in 2010 and the drainage problems there relate largely to the poor shape on the roadway. The Area Engineer will do his best to keep the road in reasonable condition in the meantime.

39. PRIORITISE DRAINAGE:

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

“In light of the recent flooding and persistent rainfall that this Council would prioritise the cleaning of roadside drainage in partnership with householders and landowners”

In response, Mr S. O’Toole Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:
During the recent period of heavy and persistent rainfall, our roads staff have been extremely busy solving as many drainage problems that they can on public roads throughout the county.  We will continue to do so, but there are some situations that are not easy to resolve and we have to wait until water levels subside.

42. ROAD SAFETY AT JUNCTIONS:

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

“That this Council take immediate measures to make safe junctions on Road 19 with N59 and Road 20 with the N59”

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

These two junctions will be examined by our Road Design staff with a view to identifying safety measures to improve the situation and preparing an estimate for any proposed works.

43. LIST OF ROAD WORKS APPLICATIONS MADE TO NRA:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for Infrastructure to provide the list of applications made to the NRA for 2010 low cost safety remedial works and Specific Improvement Grants on National and Non National Roads”

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

Under the 2010 National Roads Low Cost Safety Remedial Works proposal, the following schemes have been submitted for funding following the usual consultations with the NRA Inspectorate:

In relation to Specific Improvement Grants 2010 and after consultations with the NRA Inspectorate the following schemes have been submitted:

Under the 2010 Non National Roads Low Cost Safety Remedial Works proposals, the following schemes have been submitted for funding following the usual consultations with the NRA Inspectorate:

44. RESURFACE ROAD IN LOWER KIERNAN AVENUE, COLLOONEY:

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

“To call on the Director of Infrastructure to resurface the road in lower Kiernan Avenue, Collooney and to take immediate action to have the water gullies unblocked”

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

The Area Engineer will examine the need for any resurfacing of the road in lower Kiernan Avenue and this can be considered further at a Ballymote Electoral Area Meeting. Any blocked gullies will be cleaned out very soon.

47. UPDATE REPORT ON STRANDHILL SEWAGE SCHEME:

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

“That the Council be provided with a report on the current situation regarding the upgrading of the Strandhill Sewage Scheme and to ask if loan approval has been granted by Government for the scheme.”
In response Mr D. Harrison, Acting Senior Engineer stated the following:

The upgrade of Strandhill Wastewater Treatment Plant is included in a bundled DBO Contract including Tubbercurry, Grange, Ballinafad, Carney and Gurteen. The planning and procurement phases of the scheme have been completed and a preferred bidder has been selected.

Sligo County Council are currently awaiting the granting of loan approval from the Department to meet the Councils’ contribution to the cost of the scheme. We are in regular contact with the Department on the matter of loan approval and this particular scheme has been highlighted as a priority for this Council. The scheme has been included in the 2009 Needs Assessment report to advance as part of the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 - 2012.

48. ENERGY AUDIT ON SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. MacManus

“To ask the County Manager whether an energy audit has been conducted on the operations of the Council and to indicate what savings if any, have been identified as a result of the audit.”

In response, Ms. E. Concannon, Senior Executive Engineer stated the following:

A preliminary energy audit has taken place on the operations of the Council. As well as some potential long term savings, this audit identified some immediate energy sayings that could be made in Riverside in relation to lighting and heating. A programme of lamp replacements, light sensor installations, thermostatic heating controls and cavity wall insulation has recently taken place with funding from Sustainable Energy Ireland SEI. For a capital investment of €36,000, the annual savings are predicted to be €15,800 per annum, with an energy saving of 18%. This work is ongoing.

49. UPDATE REPORT ON SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN BALLINTOGHER VILLAGE:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council for update report on sewerage system in Ballintogher Village”

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

The upgrade of Ballintogher Wastewater Treatment Plant was proposed by a developer as part of a planning application for a housing development in the village. Sligo County Council is in ongoing consultation with the developer to agree funding details for the proposed upgrade. The scheme has been included for part funding under the 2009 Small Schemes element of the Rural Water Programme. A Design Review Report has been completed for the scheme and Part 8 planning documents are currently being prepared. It is anticipated that the scheme will be advanced subject to agreement on the necessary funding.

50. RURAL SOCIAL SCHEMES:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker,
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney

“To ask the County Manager to examine the possibility of using workers employed under Rural Social Schemes to carry out work such as opening of culverts, cleaning gullies, etc, in light of the reduction to Council Outdoor Staff”

Following discussion, it was agreed to amend the motion by adding the following  “and to ask the Minister for Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs to lift the embargo on recruitment on rural social schemes”

51. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Annie M. Burke on the death of her husband, Joe Burke.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mairead McCormack on the death of her father, Joe Burke.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Evelyn Gordon on the death of her brother, Jim McCoy.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Claire Surlis on the death of her sister, Joan Varley.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Alice McIntyre on the death of her mother, Mary Margaret McGloin.”

 “that a vote of sympathy be extended to John Colleran on the death of his mother, Bea Colleran.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Don Conlon on the death of his sister, Nuala Colleran.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Martin Cahill on the death of his brother, John Cahill.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Ray Morrissroe on the death of his son, Gerard Morrissroe.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Rosaleen Hanrahan on the death of her husband, Patrick Hanrahan.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Conrad Wright on the death of her mother, Katherine Wright.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Billy Donahue on the death of her mother, Nora Donaghue.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Noreen Colleary on the death of her mother, Nora Ruane.”

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Liam Mullen on the death of his brother, Tony Mullen.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Claire Surlis on the death of her sister, Joan Varley.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Noreen Colleary on the death of her mother, Nora Ruane.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to John McLoughlin on the death of his mother, Kathleen McLoughlin.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Billy Donoghue on the death of his mother, Nora Donoghue.”

 “that a vote of sympathy be extended to Don Conlon on the death of his sister, Nuala Colleran.”

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Henry and family on the death of her husband, Pat Henry.”

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Anna Maye on the death of her husband, Joe Maye.”

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

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Patricia Coffey on the death of her mother, Eileen Coffey.”

Proposed by Councillor M. Lyons
Seconded by Councillor T. McLoughlin

AND AGREED

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs Cunningham on the death of her husband, Michael Cunningham.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Ann Togher on the death of her husband, Martin Togher.”

“that a vote of sympathy be extended to Anna Maye on the death of her husband, Joe Maye.”

52. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to John Cavanagh on his retirement from An Garda Síochana.”

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to Peter Horan on the conferring by the National University of Ireland, Galway for his contribution to traditional Irish music.”

Proposed by Councillor T. Collery
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“That a vote of Congratulations be extended to The Ballintogher Hall Committee for achieving their target on fund raising efforts.”

53. CONFERENCES:

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

AND AGREED

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

54. CORRESPONDENCE:

Correspondence was noted by the Meeting.

55. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES:

There were no matters arising.

56. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Ms. Rita McNulty, Director of Services gave the following report.

The Council agreed at November Council meeting to seek the introduction of a commemorative plaque honouring Constance Markievicz as a founding member of Na Fianna Éireann.

The following issues have been considered.

1. Plaque Type

The size and type of plaque considered are as follows:
Brass, Bronze, Brushed Steel. Initial Proposal: Bronze type, approx 600x600mm, with associated procurement cost likely to be €600 incl vat.

2. Wording

To be agreed.

3. Site

1. Sligo County Council have contacted Countess Markievicz Commemorative Statue Committee members who achieved the introduction of the current statue sited at Rathcormac, Co. Sligo. The Committee is considering the siting of a commemorative bronze plaque attached to the existing site. Dialogue is ongoing, no agreement has been achieved to date. They have signalled a positive response to the siting of a bronze plaque, however the form and nature of the plaque remains to be determined, with the request that it be decorative, possible with artistic involvement. This would introduce an additional cost element.
2. An alternative site which is also under consideration is harbour wall at Markievicz Road, Sligo. This wall is a protected structure and may require consent from DoEHLG

4. Costs

• Labour, Plant and Materials incl. plaque €800
• Publicity, promotion and event management €400
• Artistic features €1300
• Total €2500

There is no budget in the 2009 Estimates to achieve the proposal. Should the Members wish to have an additional specific public lecture, the likely hosting cost would be approx €1500 and this would have to be provided for in the 2010 budget. 

During the period October 2009 – September 2010, Sligo Arts Service is delivering a Political/Historical Peace III project entitled ‘The Legacy of Belief’.  As part of a series of workshops for which we are currently recruiting participants, one of the workshops taking place in January 010, facilitated by Sinead McCoole, will be entitled Countess Markievicz – Person and Politics.

The meeting ended at 4.45pm.