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New Council Elected for Sligo Borough Council

 

Sligo Borough Council Member 2009 - 2014

North Ward

East Ward

West Ward

Newly Elected Council for Sligo County Council

 

Sligo County Council Members 2009 - 2014

Sligo - Drumcliffe

Dromore West

Sligo - Strandhill

Tubbercurry

Ballymote

Peace III Programme Update

‘To reinforce progress towards a peaceful and stable society and to promote reconciliation.’

EU Flag Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Partnership Committee has been working hard over the past number of months implementing a range of indicative actions within the Sligo Peace Plan.

To date 8 of 13 Indicative actions advertised through public procurement have been approved by the Peace Partnership and Sligo County Council, as lead partner for the Partnership, is in the process of issuing contracts to the preferred bidders.

The following project actions have been agreed;- Urban Peace Project, Women and Peace, Culture/Arts/Heritage, Diversity Training, Inter-Faith Programme, Political/ Historical Perspectives, Youth Education and Conflict Resolution and Mediation Training. The contracts awarded will total €727,000.

Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Partnership Committee are confident that the contracts agreed represent the peace building needs of County Sligo and will deliver a project which addresses issues related to sectarianism and racism and develops positive relations between minority and majority communities and across the border.

Further Information:-

Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Action Plan is available to download from www.sligococo.ie

Or contact Bridie Sweeney, Development Officer, Peace III Programme 071 91 11821 Email  bsweeney@sligococo.ie

Eastern Garvoge Bridge Project Gets the Go Ahead From An Bord Pleanala

An Bord Pleanála has recently approved the above project under Section 51 of the Roads Act 1993 including an environmental impact statement, with conditions and have also confirmed the Compulsory Purchase Order, with amendments.

Eastern Garvoge Bridge from a distanceThe scheme on the southern side of the river essentially involves utilising the existing road network and a portion of green space, and permanent physical encroachment into private gardens is limited to three properties only. The unique delicate single arch bridge is included in the approval.

This project is one of the key schemes for the development of Sligo into the future and is an integral part of the planned pedestrian and vehicular conduits for the Gateway.

The objective of scheme is to provide an integrated, sustainable transportation link between the SE and NE quarters of the City that serves all users with a logical, short and time saving alternative to the current situation. The route is not intended to be a town bypass.

The granting of planning approval by ABP acknowledges that there is no feasible, environment or economic alternative further east wards ie towards Lough Gill. Additionally, the river crossing location and connectors has been in consecutive development plans, continuously, for at least the past 35 years.

Benefits of the scheme include:

In approving the scheme An Bord Pleanála stated that subject to the conditions it imposes on the scheme the proposed road development would not adversely affect the integrity of the Lough Gill candidate Special Area of Conservation, would not result in significant adverse effects on the environment or on amenities in the area and would be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

The conditions imposed by the Bord include the following:

Eastern Garvoge Bridge up closeIn particular the Bord has omitted the noise barriers that were proposed by the Borough Council south of the river, in the Doorly Park, Martin Savage Terrace, Garavogue Villas, Hazel View, Crozon Promenade and Cranmore Road areas and has conditioned the provision of low noise road surfacing throughout the entire scheme. These proposed noise barriers were the subject of much controversy during the scheme’s development.

It is also significant to note that in approving the Compulsory Purchase Order the Bord has reduced the amount of permanent acquisition of part of the front gardens of a number of houses on Cranmore Road and therefore reduces the impact on these properties.

An Bord Pleanála has made a significant decision in approving the development of this scheme with specific conditions. It is now essential that the scheme is allowed to progress without delay in the interests of the overall economic and social development of Sligo and the surrounding area.

Major Investment in Water and Wastewater Services Programme

Sligo Local Authorities are responsible for the management of thirty wastewater treatment plants throughout the county. Sligo County Council’s Water Services Project Office has responsibility for Project Management and Administration of all Water Services infrastructural development projects.

€110 million programme

During the past ten years Water Services personnel in Sligo County Council have managed the construction of 25 new treatment plants and over 180Km of new pipelines involving a total investment of €110M. It is Sligo County council’s policy to “Bundle” suitable schemes in order to deliver best value for money bases on the principles of economies of scale. The bundled Operation and Maintenance contract will deliver a value for money solution to ensure that all plants in the region are operated and maintained to the highest standards and that all final effluent discharges are in compliance with National and EU regulations. The projects are funded by -

  1. Water Services Capital Programme,
  2. Development Levy Schemes (funded entirely by Sligo County Council).
  3. Service Land Initiatives
  4. Rural Water Programme

Substantial investment

Wastewater Treatment Plant in Enniscrone
- Recently opening Wastewater Treatment Plant in Enniscrone

Wastewater Treatment Plant in Dromore West
- Wastewater Treatment Plant in Dromore West

Investment in water services infrastructure has been primarily driven by two factors, namely increased capacity required for new developments and statutory regulations. The past decade has seen increased demands in both these areas resulting in substantial investment in new infrastructure. Some of the main wastewater treatment projects which have been completed over the last ten years are as follows:

The future is equally demanding for Water Services in Sligo, with an investment programme estimated in excess of €200M required to deliver the necessary infrastructural improvements.

New Schemes

Contracts are ready to be signed for the bundled Tubbercurry, Grange, Strandhill and Ballinafad Sewerage Scheme’s project.

Sligo County Council is currently awaiting the granting of loan approval from the Department (DEHLG) to meet the Councils contribution to the cost of this DBO contract. Immediately on receipt of loan approval Sligo County Council will be in a position to sign the contract and proceed to the construction phase.

Kilsellagh Empounding Resevoir
- Kilsellagh Empounding Resevoir

A further 17 schemes are currently in the planning phase, including Lough Talt Water Supply Scheme and North Sligo Water Supply Scheme’s as well as sewerage schemes at Carraroe, Cummeen, Ballinacarrow, Cliffoney, Ballintogher, Bunninadden and Ballymote amongst others.

At Sligo County Council’s monthly meeting on 6th July it was confirmed that Sligo County Council considers the Tubbercurry Scheme a priority, and the Council is in regular contact with the Department of the Environment regarding loan approval for the scheme.

Challenges

This programme of investment in Water Services is much needed, however it does pose significant challenges for Sligo County Council, in particular the funding required for the nondomestic marginal cost element of capital projects. Similarly, the costs for operating and maintaining these modern new facilities to the highest standards will increase their annual budgetary requirements. For example the estimated Operation and Maintenance costs for Sligo Main Drainage and the Enniscrone bundle, in 2009, are almost €2M. Nonetheless, Sligo County Council is committed to working with all stakeholders in order to deliver this programme in a cost effective and

Sligo Main Drainage Wastewater Treatment Plant 
- Recently Completed Sligo Main Drainage Wastewater Treatment Plant

Council Focus

Sligo Local Authorities have teamed up with local radio station Ocean FM to produce a programme of news and information which is broadcast as part of the radio station’s regular schedule. The fifteen minute programme, Council Focus, will be broadcast on the second Sunday of every month at 9.00am and is repeated the following Wednesday evening at 6.40pm. New editions of the programme are recorded monthly and it is also available as a Podcast on www.sligococo.ie and www.sligoborough.ie

Junior Achievement Volunteers Honoured

Junior Achievement Ireland logoThe volunteers who assisted the Junior Achievement Programme have been honoured at an Awards ceremony in County Hall. Junior Achievement is a voluntary organisation which works with public and private bodies throughout Ireland, delivering a range of science and enterprise programmes for students aged 5-18 years.

The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Gerry Murray welcomed the fact that 12 staff members of Sligo County Council have taken an active role in the current phase. ‘As well as learning about science and enterprise, the programme is also very important in terms of personal development. There is a welcome focus on inter-action and team work throughout the programme, and this helps build self-confidence and develop social skills. When we talk about the role of the local authority in the community, this is the sort of project we should try and encourage, as it has very real benefits for the students taking part. The Junior achievement programme provides a great foundation for the future, and the skills acquired by the students will serve them well in the years ahead.’ Cathaoirleach also commended the volunteers who serviced the programme. ‘Our volunteers embraced the Junior Achievement model with great enthusiasm, and their contribution is greatly appreciated by the students.’

The Mayor of Sligo Councillor Jim McGarry feels that ‘This initiative has shown remarkable progress in recent years, and great credit is due to the many volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver the programme in schools around our county. In my view there was never a greater need for initiatives such as Junior Achievement, as it dovetails the class-room experience of teachers with the practical work experience of participating staff members. Today’s students face a number of challenges, especially as they come to a stage where they have to make important carer choices. Anything we can do to help them in this process is to be welcomed, and given the success of this year’s programme, it is fair to assume it will be expanded in the year’s ahead. The economic landscape means that the workplace is becoming an increasingly challenging environment, and we should focus our attention on providing any support, guidance and encouragement we can.’

Junior Achievement Awards group
- Back Row Left to Right - Siobhan Kelly Junior Achievement Ireland, Rita McNulty Director of Services, Junior Achievement Volunteers Bernie Flynn, Eamon Fox, Dolores McDonagh, Siobhan Gillen, Eimear O’Sullivan and James Haugh.
Front Row Left to Right  - Della Clancy, Junior Achievement Ireland, Cathaoirleach Councillor Gerry Murray, Caroline Collery Sligo Local Authorities and Patricia Friel

Sligo Local Authorities’ staff who took part in the 2009 Junior Achievement Programme accept their Certificates from Cathaoirleach Councillor Murray.

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to Bernie Flynn 
- Bernie Flynn

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to Caroline Collery
- Caroline Collery

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to Dolores McDonagh
- Dolores McDonagh

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to Eamon Fox
- Eamon Fox

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to Eimear O Sullivan
- Eimear O'Sullivan

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to James Haugh
- James Haugh

Junior Achievement certificate awarded to Siobhan Gillen
- Siobhan Gillen

‘Non Principal Private Residence’ Charge Introduced

Non Principal Private Residence logoThe 2008 Budget sought the introduction of a €200 annual charge on secondary residences. This charge will be payable to the local authority in whose area the property concerned is located. Below are a list of questions and answers to help explain the details of this new charge.

What types of properties are liable for the NPPR charge?

The Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 starts from a position where it applies a charge to all owners of all residential property but goes on to exclude certain property or buildings from the definition of "residential property" and it also provides certain exemptions from the concept of ownership.

The most significant exemption is for a property which is the sole or main residence of the person who owns it. Residential property that has never been either sold or used as a residence is also exempt as is certain social housing. There are also limited exemptions where a person is moving house and, in the process, owns two houses for a relatively short period. Other exemptions deal with local authority housing, shared ownership housing (with a housing authority), some heritage buildings and, in certain circumstances, joint ownership of a property after a divorce or separation agreement. Residential property liable for commercial rates is also exempt (although few instances of such properties are anticipated).

The Act should be consulted about these exemptions. The main types of residential property that are liable for the charge are private rented property, vacant property (except new but unsold residences) and holiday homes.

How much is the charge?

The charge is set at an annual level of €200 with a late penalty of €20 per month applicable.

How do I pay?

It is payable to the city or county council in which the residential property liable for the charge is located or you can pay it electronically at www.nppr.ie. or in person at your local authority. You will need a credit or debit card to pay the charge using the web-site but you can also pay by cheque.

Cash will not be accepted. You must also make a declaration of ownership of the property in question.

What do I need to pay my NPPR property charge online?

To pay your NPPR charge online you will need

  1. Your PPS number
  2. The address of your NPPR property(s)
  3. Your laser card or credit card details.

Can I pay for multiple properties?

Yes, you can pay for multiple properties in the online system.

When does the charge apply? What is a liability date?

Liability to pay the charge is determined on the basis of ownership of the property in question on a single day each year. This date is called the "liability date". 31st July has been set as the liability date in 2009. The charge must be paid within two months of the liability date -30th September in 2009.

I own a mobile home. Is this liable for the charge?

A mobile home is not liable for the €200 charge.

I no longer own an NPPR – what should I do?

If you no longer own an NPPR that you previously registered in the system then you may remove your association with the particular NPPR. This may be done on the NPPR details page.

Please note that the requirement for a local authority to be able to provide a certificate upon request means that your historical association with that NPPR will be maintained but it will not show up in your currently registered NPPRs.

I own an apartment/bedsit. Am I liable for the charge?

Apartment and bedsits are liable for the charge. Unless one of the exemptions apply in your case e.g it's your principal private residence, you will be liable for the charge.

I'm moving house and own two properties on a temporary basis – do I still need to pay the charge?

The exemption in respect of a principal, private residence applies in respect of one property only but the Act does permit the payment of a refund in certain circumstances where a person owns two properties on a liability date. The refund may apply where a person, in the course of moving house, owns two properties for a temporary period.

As stated, only one property can be a person's principal private residence at any given time, and a charge must be paid where a person owns a second property on a liability date even where this has been acquired as part of the process of moving house. A refund can be applied for where the second property was acquired within the year previous to the liability date in question and where the first property is disposed of with six months of the liability date in question.

I'm divorced/separated - am I liable to pay the charge?

If a person is divorced or separated, judicial separation agreement having been granted they will not be liable to pay the charge where they reside in what used to be the family home as their existing principal private residence. Where the other party to the divorce or separation agreement does not reside in the original family home but retains an interest in the ownership of the property on foot of the divorce or separation agreement, the Act provides that this person will not be liable for the charge in respect of the interest that they retain in what used to be the family home.

What's a declaration and what information must I provide?

You must also declare your liability for the charge when you are making the €200 payment. This declaration can be made through the web-site or in writing on the approved form, as part of the payment process in either case. In summary, you must provide the:

A tax reference number for a company can be either a reference number on any return of income form or notice of assessment issued to the company by the Revenue Commissioners or the registration of the company under the Companies Acts.

What is a "late payment fee"?

The Act provides that that, if a charge is not paid within a month after the last date for payment, a late payment fee will apply for every month or part of month that the €200 charge remains unpaid. For 2009, this means that the late payment fee will apply to all payments made after 31 October 2009. The late payment fee amounts to €20 per month or part of a month. The late payment fee will continue to roll up as long as the charge remains unpaid and the amount involved can be substantial.

What happens if I don't pay?

A person who does not pay a charge within the relevant two month period leaves themselves open to prosecution by the local authority to whom the payment is due. A late payment fee will also arise if payment is not made within the one month grace period - see above.

Furthermore, both the €200 charge and any accumulated late payment fee will be a charge against the property concerned. This is likely to lead to difficulties in selling the residential property as the person buying it would become liable for any charges and fess outstanding in respect of the property concerned.

Who pays the charge where a property liable for the charge is owned jointly?

Liability falls on all co-owners but payment by any one co-owner discharges the liability of all co-owners.

What if I'm selling my house - how do I prove that I have paid the charge?

You can request the local authority to give you a certificate to this effect. This will be evidence of payment, and will formally discharge any liability in law for payment of the charge.


If you require any more information please see full details in the News section of our websites - www.sligococo.ie and www.sligoborough.ie

Gum Litter Campaign Competition


Sligo County Council Crest 2            Sligo Borough Council Crest                                      

Competition Time

Design your own poster, logo or slogan in conjunction with Sligo Gum Litter Campaign.

Age limit under 16 years.

Please post all entries including your Name, Address, Contact number and Age to the following address:

Environmental Services Section,
Sligo County Council,
Unit 9, Cleveragh Business Park,
Sligo.


Closing date is Tuesday, 8th September 2009.


www.gumlittertaskforce.ie

Bin your Gum poster                              Bin your Gum poster

Tidy Towns Local Competition Results 2009

CATEGORY 1:   Best Kept Housing Estate

A 1-30 Houses in Estate

B 31-60 Houses in Estate

C 61+ Houses in Estate


CATEGORY 2:   Best Kept School

National School


CATEGORY 3:  Best Kept Shop Front/Business


CATEGORY 4:       Best Waste Management Initiative

Recycling Bring Bank


CATEGORY 5:    Best Kept Street


CATEGORY 6: Open Space/Green or Riverside Area


A Grant will be awarded to Committees who have entered the National Tidy Towns Competition, in recognition of the valuable contribution they have made to their Communities.

Further information is available from Community and Enterprise Office, Sligo County Council Development Centre, Cleveragh Road, Sligo. Telephone 071 9111800.