Minutes 2014

Minutes of September Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 8th September, 2014 at 11am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo


COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

  • Councillor Baker,
  • Councillor Bree,
  • Councillor Casserly,
  • Councillor Clarke,
  • Councillor Gormley,
  • Councillor Healy,
  • Councillor Keaney,
  • Councillor Kilgannon,
  • Councillor Lundy,
  • Councillor Maguire,  
  • Councillor MacManus,
  • Councillor Mac Sharry,
  • Councillor Mulvey,
  • Councillor O’Boyle,
  • Councillor O’Grady,
  • Councillor Queenan,
  • Councillor Scanlon and
  • Councillor Taylor.

OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:

  • Mr Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive (CE)
  • Mr Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services (DOS)
  • Ms Marie Leydon, Head of Finance (HOF)
  • Mr Bartley Gavin, Acting/Director of Services (A/DOS)
  • Mr Seamus O’Toole, Senior Executive Engineer (SEE)
  • Mr John O’Flaherty, Acting/ Senior Executive Engineer (A/SEE)
  • Mr Pat Doyle, Special Project Engineer
  • Mr Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer (SEO)
  • Mr John Moran, Meeting Administrator  
  • Ms Marian McGovern, Clerical Officer (CO)

  

1.  MINUTES OF JULY MEETING HELD ON 7TH JULY, 2014:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“To confirm the Minutes of the July Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council, held on 7th July, 2014.”

 

2.  MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 20TH AUGUST, 2014:

Proposed by Councillor T. Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor H. Keaney

AND AGREED

“To confirm Minutes of a Special Meeting of Sligo County Council, held on 20th August, 2014.”

 

3.  TAKING IN CHARGE WATERSIDE LANE, STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commences the process of ‘taking in charge’ Phase 1 of the development known as Waterside Lane, at Strandhill, Co. Sligo by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the development.”

 

4.  TAKING IN CHARGE KILLASPUGBRONE, STRANDHILL:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council commences the process of taking in charge a housing development of 3 houses, at Killaspugbrone, Strandhill, Co. Sligo by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 to declare public the road serving the development.”

 

5.  SECTION 183 – COMMUNITY CENTRE, CALTRAGH:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, a lease of the property known as the Community Centre, Caltragh, Cornageeha, Sligo by Sligo County Council to Sligo Leader Partnership.”

 

6.  SECTION 183 – 6 BALLYTIVNAN, SLIGO:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of property at 6 Ballytivnan, Sligo to Nigel McTernan as legal personal representative of James McTernan (otherwise Seamus McTernan).”

 

7.  SECTION 183 – BEARLOUGH, BALLYMOTE:

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

AND AGREED

“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the disposal of a dwelling at Bearlough, Ballymote, Co. Sligo”

 

8.  PART 8 – N17/R294 JUNCTION IMPROVEMENTS:

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council in accordance with Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations 2001, Part 8 (Article 81) (as amended by the Planning and Development Regulations 2006) proceed with the construction of the N17/R294 Junction Improvements 2014 as outlined in the report.”

 

9.  DIRECTORATE QUARTERLY REPORTS:

“To note Directorate Quarterly Reports.”

The meeting agreed to deal with each directorate separately.

In response to queries from the members on the report from the Directorate of Housing, Corporate, Emergency Services, Community, Enterprise, the Arts and Libraries, Ms Clarke, DOS stated the following;

  • In relation to units under a Part 5 there has been some issues with title deeds. Funds have been drawn down and the Council are hoping to finalise possession of same in the coming weeks..
  • A report will have to be prepared regarding RAS figures and how this impacts on the housing waiting list.
  • There are no plans to demolish the Gate Lodge at Doorly Park but a report will be prepared for the next meeting regarding same.
  • 7 Units at Old Quay Court require some minor works and legal documents need to be finalised.
  • There are currently 1,050 people on the Sligo County Council Housing list.

In response to queries from the members on the report from the Directorate of Infrastructural Services, Environment, Planning and Economic Development Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated the following;

  • The next steps for the N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin Scheme would be detailed design and land acquisition.
  • It is expected to appoint a contractor for the Hughes Bridge Widening Scheme in the following weeks and construction is expected to start next month. The works will take approximately 9 months.
  • The N16 requires significant design and is a longer term project for the Council.
  • Mr Kilfeather indicates that the N17 is on the council agenda at every meeting with the NRA.

 

The meeting agrees to take Item 50 at this time.

 

50.  HUGHES BRIDGE SCHEME:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for an update on the Hughes Bridge Widening Scheme.”

Mr Kilfeather gave the following report to the members:

Under the Government stimulus package announced in May, €2.85 million was awarded for construction works on the N4 Hughes Bridge Widening Scheme. This scheme involves the provision of two additional traffic lanes across Hughes Bridge by the removal of the existing footpaths on both sides of the bridge and the carrying out of strengthening works to the existing bridge. It includes the construction of two new dedicated pedestrian/cycle bridges outside of the existing bridge structure on both sides.

The Scheme is being Project Managed by Sligo County Council's Major Road Schemes Design Team. The detailed design of the scheme was completed in June and the Tender process for the appointment of a Contractor is nearing completion.  It is expected that a contractor will be appointed by the end of September and that work will commence in October. The duration of the contract is 9 months.

 

10.  MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORTS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Gormley
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“To note report on the preparation of Monthly Management Reports and to be circulated on the 28th of each month.”

 

11.  PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NETWORK:

“To note report on the establishment of a Public Participation Network and the preparation of a Framework for Public Participation in Local Government.”

Ms Clarke, DOS delivered a briefing to the members on the current formation of the Public Participation Network which would form part of the Local Community Development Committees and the Strategic Policy Committees.

The report was noted by the members.

 

12.  APPOINT 4 MEMBERS TO THE MODEL:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillors Tom Mac Sharry, Rosaleen O’Grady and Hubert Keaney to the Board of The Model.”

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Seamus O’Boyle to the Board of The Model.”

 

13.  APPOINT 2 MEMBERS TO THE BMWRA:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillors Martin Baker and Seamus Kilgannon to the Border, Midland and Western Regional Assembly.”

 

14.  APPOINT 3 MEMBERS TO THE AILG:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillors Paul Taylor, Rosaleen O’Grady and Thomas Healy to the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG).”

 

15.  APPOINT CHAIR TO LTACC:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“To appoint Councillor Martin Baker as Chair to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee, in accordance with Section 22 of the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998, from the 4 members previously nominated to the committee.”

 

16.  LPT MEETING DATE:

Ms. Leydon delivers a presentation on the Local Property Tax (LPT) Variation and Budget 2015 process. The main points of the presentation being;

  • The statutory deadline for submitting the variation of the LPT is 30th September.
  • Budget Strategy to be agreed in consultation with the Corporate Policy Group (CPG)
  • There will be consideration of the harmonisation of commercial rates between that of the former Sligo Borough Council and of Sligo County Council. A change in rating laws gives power to the members of local authorities to vary the level of rates refunds that apply in individual electoral areas.
  • Discretionary funding will be made available to the Municipal Districts for allocation in their draft budgetary plans.
  • A preliminary outline estimate of income must be submitted to the Department by 30th September.
  • The Municipal Districts must develop their Budgetary plans between the 1st and 10th October.
  • The draft budgetary plans from the Municipal Districts will be incorporated into the Draft County Council budget within the relevant service divisions.
  • The County Council Budget meeting must be held between 1st and 24th November.
  • Following adoption of the Budget a schedule of proposed works or maintenance and repairs will be prepared for each Municipal District under the direction of the Chief Executive and then to be considered and adopted by the Municipal District members.

The members had a discussion on the various dates and budget process and in response to their queries Ms. Leydon stated the following;

  • A review of the rate system is being carried out by the  Valuation Office but they have not indicated when rates in County Sligo will be reviewed for harmonisation. This will come in the next 5 years when there will eventually be one consistent rate through the whole County.

The CE, Mr Hayes asked the members to consider moving the Ordinary October meeting of the Council forward to accommodate the Municipal District draft Budget meetings. The following dates and times were agreed for upcoming meetings:

  • LPT Variation - Friday 26th September, 9.30am County Hall
  • Sligo MD Draft Budget – Wednesday 8th October, 9.30am City Hall
  • Ballymote-Tobercurry MD Draft Budget – Wednesday 8th October, 3.00pm City Hall
  • October Ordinary Meeting – Monday 13th October, 11.00am County Hall

 

17.  PROCEDURES COMMITTEE:

The members agreed the date for the Procedures Committee meeting as Wednesday 17th September at 2.30pm in County Hall. Councillor Mac Manus indicates that he will be unavailable for this date but is happy for the meeting to go ahead in his absence.

 

18.  TRAFFIC LIGHTS  AT JUNCTION OF FIRT SEA ROAD/STRANDHILL ROAD:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

“To ask for an up-to-date report on steps being taken to overcome the traffic problems experienced at the traffic lights at junction of First Sea Road/Strandhill Road.”

In response, Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated the following;

A report has been requested and completed by specialists in this area. The Report will now be examined and having regard to the 2015 Budget deliberations will inform the content of the Schedule of Municipal District Works to be considered and adopted by the Sligo Municipal District.

 

It was agreed to take Items 19, 44 and 45 together.

 

19.  FUNDING FOR SOCIAL HOUSING:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“Given the current crisis in the provision of housing for those families on council waiting lists across this State with 90,000 applicants currently waiting for accommodation, including 1,200 in Co. Sligo, this Council calls on the Minister for Housing to urgently implement a housing programme to tackle this matter using a combination of funding. Such funding sources would include the National Pension Reserve Fund, European Investment Bank, incentivised private pension investment and the capital budget to deliver social housing units through construction, purchase and renovation.”

 

44.  FUNDING FOR SOCIAL HOUSING:

Proposed by Councillor S. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

AND AGREED

“I, Councillor Seamus O’Boyle want to put forward a motion that Sligo County Council request funds from central government for social and affordable housing in Sligo as there has not been any local authority houses built in Sligo in recent years.”

 

45.  HOUSING WAITING LIST:

Proposed by Councillor S. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

“I, Councillor Seamus O’Boyle would like to propose a motion that the housing authorities give a report on the number of people that are on the waiting list in Sligo and also if possible a breakdown of categories of people waiting e.g. Single, Single parents, families etc.”

In response, Ms Clarke, DOS stated the following;

At the 4/9/14 there are a total of 1050 households (including transfers) approved for social housing support.  This is broken down as follows:

Households with 2 adults or more and dependents - 159

Households with one adult and dependents - 252 

(This includes single adults with access to children).

Households with no dependents on the list – 639

There are 639 households with no dependents on the list.  Approximately 40% of this figure is classified as having enduring health impairment. Some of these applicants are residing in HSE supported accommodation. Others may be in private rented and need to be on the list in order to secure rent supplement.

 

The meeting adjourned for lunch at 1.00pm.

 

20.  INSOLVENCY LAWS:

Proposed by Councillor S. Mac Manus
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council will to write to the Minister for Social Protection calling on her to urgently rectify the legal loophole that allows for the reckless practice of informal insolvency by rogue employers leaving workers unable to access their statutory entitlements.”

 

21.  UNIVERSAL SOCIAL CHARGE:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“To ask Sligo County Council to call on the Minster for Finance, in framing the 2015 Budget, to consider reducing or removing the Universal Social Charge; this will benefit the widest number of people and provide much needed relief to working families.”

 

It was agreed to take Items 22, 23 and 28 together.

 

22.  MAINTAIN 9% VAT RATE:

Proposed by Councillor T. Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council supports the call from the Restaurants Association of Ireland for the ongoing retention of the 9% VAT rate for the food, tourism and hospitality sector, that has helped create jobs in the economy, and that this Council ask the Minister for Finance to keep VAT at 9% into 2015 and beyond.”

 

23.  MAINTAIN 9% VAT RATE:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor T. Mac Sharry

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County supports the call from the Restaurants Association of Ireland for the ongoing retention of the 9% vat rate for the food, tourism and hospitality sector, that has helped create 25% of the jobs in the economy. This Council calls on the Minister for Finance to keep Vat @ 9% into 2015 and beyond.”

 

28.  MAINTAIN 9% VAT RATE:

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

AND AGREED

“That Sligo County Council supports the call from the Restaurants Association of Ireland for the ongoing retention of the 9% vat rate for the food, tourism and hospitality sector, which has helped create one in four of the jobs in the economy. That this Council ask the Minister for Finance to keep vat @ 9% into 2015 and beyond.”

 

24.  DREDGING AT SLIGO HARBOUR:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“Noting that the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government has issued a license under the Foreshore Act to allow the Council to undertake dredging works at Sligo Harbour; this meeting resolves that the Council now submit an application to the Environmental Protection Agency for a Dumping at Sea Licence.”

In response, Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated the following;

Now that the licence under the Foreshore Act allowing dredging works has been issued the next step would appear to be the submission of  an application to the Environmental Protection Agency for a Dumping at Sea Licence”

The cost of an application for a Dumping at Sea Permit/Licence for a major dredging scheme as is required in the Harbour would be in the region of €12,500.  Even this level of funding is not currently available within our 2014 Budgets and the matter may have to be considered in the context of the 2015 Budget deliberations.

Separately but equally critical is the need for some discussion as to how any major scheme of Dredging required will be financed. It is simply way beyond the resources of this Council to consider undertaking such a Scheme which is estimated as likely to cost €5M. Central Government has made it clear that the funding of Sligo Port is no longer on their Agenda.

A Dumping at Sea Licence/Permit for a maintenance dredging programme would cost approximately €2,500, with the estimated cost of a maintenance works of €85K. However such works will only resolve the problem for a short period and again the funding of even such a modest programme of works is an issue. Unless we can identify alternative sources of delivering such Schemes it could be considered wasteful to pursue a Licence/Permit application at this time.

 

It was agreed to take Items 25 and 46 together.

 

25.  VACANT COUNCIL HOUSES:

Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“That the Council be provided with a report indicating the number of Council houses which have been vacant for in excess of 6 months; the location of each house; the reason the houses have been left vacant for such a period; the proposals, if any, to make the houses available to applicants on the housing waiting list; the report also to include details of the number of applicants on the Council’s housing waiting list.”

 

46.  VACANT COUNCIL HOUSES:

Proposed by Councillor S. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree

“I, Councillor Seamus O’Boyle want to propose a motion that that the Housing Department do a report of how many vacant houses Sligo County Council have on their books and the possibility of them being released to people waiting on local authority housing.”

In response, MS Clarke DOS, stated the following;

In relation to the information requested in the notice of motion above it should be noted that some of the information requested has already been provided in the Quarterly reports circulated to members.

I would also like to emphasise that the ability of the Council to deliver  on turning around vacant property for reletting purposes for  people on our waiting list is very much dependent on having adequate funding available in our Maintenance Budget.  As most members would be aware this would have been severely restricted in recent years due to the Council’s financial position

At the 31st August 2014 the total number of housing stock in County Council ownership is 2087 units.  Of these there are 84 properties are vacant for greater than six months.

The vacant properties can be broken down into the following categories:

  • 68 are awaiting minor repairs.
  • 7 are waiting major refurbishment works.
  • 9 properties are available for letting. 
  • (Allocations in areas of high demand are progressed and offered to applicants on an ongoing basis as normal).

An analysis of the properties awaiting minor repairs and major Refurbishment is set out below (Total 75).

  • 26 properties have been approved for funding under the Department of Environment Initiative to return vacant properties to productive use.  It is envisaged that works will commence on these houses in October.
  • 5 of the properties have been included in the 2014 planned maintenance programme with works to start in October. 
  • 5 are included in the Cranmore Regeneration Major refurbishment Programme also to commence in October. 
  • 8 Plus 3 are included in the 2015 maintenance programmes.
  • 1 property will be coming available at the end of September (in Joe Mc Donnell Drive, Cranmore)

In relation to the remainder of the properties requiring repair,  27 of these  are located in areas of low demand and a decision has been taken, due to scarce resources, that pre letting works will not be carried out unless a specific tenant has been identified.  Many of these houses, if refurbished, would be at a high risk of vandalism and theft.  Areas of low demand include Tubbercurry (Mountain View and Tower Crescent), Cloonacool, Geevagh, Culfadda and Gurteen.

It should also be noted that within the City area the number of hard to let properties is minimal, with the exception of Apartments in certain areas of the city.

The Council’s efforts to secure tenants in areas of low demand are thwarted by the high level of refusal of reasonable offers.   For the year ended 31/12/2013 there were 49 refusals, which is 27% of all offers. 

The Council’s policy contains a provision to designate dwellings in hard to let areas as ‘Bid Dwellings’ under the Choice Based letting.  It is now proposed to proceed to designate bid dwellings in Tubbercurry, Gurteen and Cloonshanbally, Culfadda as Bid Dwellings in an effort to expedite the allocation of the vacant properties.  Known as Choice Based Lettings under the Policy, the vacant units will be advertised to qualified households on the housing list with the advertisements placed on the Councils website and through mail shots to existing applicants on the waiting list.    If there is more than one applicant expressing an interest for a particular property the final offer will be made to the applicant with highest priority of need.  All offers of accommodation will be subject to the usual estate management checks. 

There are 10 properties in Geldof Drive not included in the above as they are not available for letting and their future depends on the outcome of the Masterplan for Cranmore regeneration.

Information on: 

  1. the list of vacant houses, Appendix 1
  2. those that are listed for refurbishment, Appendix 2
  3. houses designated as being in areas of low demand Appendix 3
  4. those available for letting Appendix 4

will be circulated to members with a copy of this report. If members wish to have this detailed information included in the Quarterly reports it can be incorporated.

In previous briefings to the former Council, members would have been informed of the Council’s position in relation to the length of time it takes to turnaround a vacant property for reletting.  Based on the 2012 Service indicator report for 2012 (most up to date available) the length of time taken to relet a vacant property was 14.38 weeks.  This compares very favourably with other local authorities (which ranged from 6 weeks to 35 weeks).

Our ability to improve on a faster turnaround time is of course related to a number of factors already alluded to above which includes: 

  1. The high number of properties in hard to let/low demand areas,
  2. The high number of refusals by Sligo applicants and significantly
  3. The limited budget at our disposal for maintenance and repairs.  This highlights the importance to Sligo on retaining a credible revenue income source going forward in future to ensure that adequate budget can be set aside for our Housing Maintenance Programme.

It was agreed to circulate the various reports on Housing Items to the members.

 

26.  TAKING IN CHARGE BUENOS AIRES COURT:

With the agreement of the meeting Councillor Bree asked to defer this Item.

 

27.  NATIONAL BROADBAND SCHEME:

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

AND AGREED

“That this Council calls on the Government to reinstate the funding for the National Broadband Scheme and also that they honour their commitment which they made before the local elections to deliver high speed broadband to rural areas.”

 

29.  TUBBERCURRY JOBS:

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

AND AGREED

“I will ask Sligo County Council to contact the IDA and Enterprise Ireland to seek replacement jobs for Tubbercurry, following the decision of Aurivo to move their workforce of 50 from their head office in Tubbercurry to Sligo.”

Following a discussion by the members the CE, Mr Hayes indicated that the Council would be working on the Economic Development Plan and maybe it would be more appropriate to invite these agencies to address the members at a later date. As stakeholders, these agencies among others will be involved in the consultation process.

 

30.  SEPTIC TANKS:

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

“To ask the Director of Services for a report on the number of septic tanks that have been inspected in Co. Sligo to date and the number that have failed the test; will the owners get the maximum grant available or 100% of the upgrade costs?”

In response, Mr Kilfeather DOS stated the following;

Under the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency National Inspection Plan for DWWTS, Sligo County Council has carried out 28 initial inspections up to the end of August 2014.  To date, inspections have largely been concentrated in the source catchment areas of public water supply schemes. In total,  40 inspections must be completed by Sligo County Council by the end of 2014.

Inspections carried out to date;

Number of initial inspections carried out: 28

Fully Compliant Systems: 11

Non-compliant Systems: 17

(64% failure rate)

12 of the 17 may potentially qualify for the grant depending on satisfying the criteria of the means test.3 of the remaining 5 had not registered by the cut-off date of 1/2/2013 for grant qualification. The other two only required desludging and hence no grant available.

In addition, 9 verification inspections have been carried out to date. Verification inspections are carried out to check to ensure that remedial works as required by an Advisory Notice have been carried out.

National Grant Scheme

A grant scheme is available to assist owners of premises connected to domestic wastewater treatment systems with the costs of repairs to and upgrading of such treatment systems, where the works arise directly from an inspection carried out under the EPA National Inspection Plan. Desludging of DWWTS is not covered by the grant scheme.

Homeowners are entitled to avail of the grant scheme for remedial works subject to;

  • Satisfying the requirements of a means test.
  • the home owner must have registered the DWWTS by 1/2/2013.

The level of grant aid available is determined on the basis of gross household income and is either 50% or 80% of the approved costs of the works. The table below sets out the level of grant available based on the income of the previous tax year.

 

Household income% of approved costs availableMaximum grant available
Up to €50,000 80% €4,000
€50001-€75,000 50% €2,500
In excess of €75,000 No grant is payable No grant is payable

 

The grant scheme is administered locally by the local authority. Grants payable are recouped from the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. Works must be carried out as per advisory notice issued in order to draw down the grant. Two grant applications have been received to date.

 

31.  PIPE NETWORK IN BALLINTOGHER:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“To call on Sligo County Council to allocate funds towards the surface water pipe network in Ballintogher as the pipe network is poor and has caused flooding in the town.”

Mr Kilfeather, DOS indicated that the Area Engineer will examine the surface water drainage problems in Ballintogher with a view to identifying a solution. No extra funding is available in the current Budget and it will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the schedule of Municipal District works.

 

32.  HOUSING GRANTS:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council (a) to provide proper funds for Mobility, Disability and Older People Grants; (b) in order to provide for proper funds I call on Sligo to discuss and consider a 5% increase in the property charge if it deemed is required.”

Following a discussion by the members and in response to their queries Ms Clarke, DOS stated the following;

  • Over the last 3 years the Department allocation for grants has reduced from approximately €997,00 to €469,000.
  • A supplementary allocation was received in 2013 but there is no indication that this will be the case for 2014.
  • As had been previously agreed by the council priority is given to grants for Mobility and Disability, although the bulk of applications received were for the Older Persons grant.
  • Up to June 2014 approximately €10,000 was spent on grants for Older People.
  • The Housing SPC could look at the application process in the future.
  • The funding for Older Persons grants has expired for 2014 but in exceptional cases the members are advised to approach the Housing Section and  every effort would be made to secure funding from the Department.

 

It was agreed to defer the motion to the Annual Budget meeting

 

33.  WATER METRES:

Proposed by Councillor E. Scanlon
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

“Can the position in relation the water metres for commercial and agricultural connections been clarified.  Is it proposed that a standing charge will apply to these connections?  Is the standing charge payable by domestic users to Veolia to be abolished and if so from what date?”

Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated the the Council were no longer in a position to respond the water related motions and that Irish Water had to be contacted regarding same.

The Council would be having a meeting with Irish Water later this month and would try to gain clarity on some of these issues.

 

ITEMS 34, 35 and 36

The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Queenan asked, with the agreement of the meeting that these motions be deferred to the Ballymote-Tobercurry Municipal District meeting.

 

37.  LITTER WARDEN:

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

“To ask the Director of Services when the vacant litter warden position will be filled?”

Mr Kilfeather indicated that the position of Litter warden had been filled since 9.30am this morning.

 

39.  SPECIAL RESOLUTION FUND:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“To call on Sligo County Council for an update report on the three developments which received funding from the Department under the Special Resolution Fund (SRF) Has the work commenced and is there enough funds to complete these projects? Has any of the money been drawn down and what is the time frame for completion on all three developments?”

In response Mr Murphy, SEO stated the following;

Site Resolution Funding was approved by the Department for 6 number Unfinished Housing Developments in Sligo.  The current position is as follows;

Granary Drive, Grange: - €95,000.00

Works have commenced on this estate and should be completed shortly. 75% of the funding has been drawn down from the Department.

 

Davitt Court, Gurteen: - €22,280.00

The developer will not be in a position to carry out works on this estate until he is in receipt of a grant of planning permission in relation to a reduced development of 3 houses (originally 52 permitted). You are to note that the decision to grant planning permission issued on 2nd September, 2014 under PL 14/221.

 

Knoxville Manor, Bellaghy: - €41,570.00

The Council has served notice on the Bond Holder in relation to its intention to draw down the Bond, the funds of which will in addition to the Department allocation be also required to complete the development.  The Bond Holder has tendered for the outstanding works and will respond to the Councils claim later this month on receipt of tender prices.  It is expected that works will commence in October, 2014.

 

Dromroe, Castlebaldwin: - €250,000.00

The Council has served notice on the Bond Holder in relation to its intention to draw down the Bond, the funds of which will in addition to the Department allocation be also required to complete the development.  Costings in respect of the outstanding works will be finalised this month following which the Bond Holder is to revert to the Council.

 

Carraig Abhainn, Ballisodare: -€250,000.00

Tender documents on behalf of the developer have been prepared and will issue shortly.  It is expected that works will commence in October, 2014.

 

Avena Mills, Ballisodare: -€250,000.00

The allocation approved for this development involves the demolition of the property.  The Council now understands that this property has been sold (awaiting confirmation).  The Council has submitted an alternative proposal to the Department and their response is awaited.

All works must be fully completed and monies drawn down from the Department before the end of 2014 in respect of all approved developments.

It was agreed to circulate a copy of this report to the members.

 

38.  DERELICT HOUSE IN COLLOONEY:

Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“To ask Sligo County Council what is the current situation with the derelict house opposite the treatment plant in Collooney? Is this to be demolished to accommodate the new treatment plant, or what plan has Sligo County Council got in place for this property or is this now the property of Irish Water?”

In response Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated to following;

The property is located immediately adjacent to Collooney Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The possible upgrade of the Collooney Wastewater Treatment Plant is subject to a review by IW. It is our opinion that when that review is completed the recommendation will be an upgrade to the Plant. Until that review process is completed it is impossible to say if any additional lands will be required. Design and technology advances offer opportunities to minimise the amount of property required for Schemes.

No property can be disposed of without the approval of the Council. 

Following further discussion by the members Mr Kilfeather indicated that the motion was timely as the house is for sale on the open market and Irish Water may have to make a decision on the need for the land in question.

 

40.  TRAFFIC CALMING, COOLANEY:

Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor J. Lundy

“To ask Sligo County Council to put traffic calming measure in place along main street Coolaney as a safety measure.”

In response Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated to following;

Due to the absence of Discretionary Improvement Grant funding for some years it is not possible to provide any further traffic calming in Coolaney.

It will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works.

 

41.  FOOTPATH EXTENSION IN BALLYMOTE:

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

“To ask Sligo County Council has there been any update on the issue of a footpath extension from Ballymote to the 2 factory units at Carrownanty.”

In response Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated to following;

No extension of footpaths here are possible without funding under Discretionary Improvement Grant which does not exist at present.

It will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works.

 

42.  PULLADIVVA PIER:

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

“To call on Sligo County Council to provide emergency funds for damage caused to Pulladivva Pier prior to the winter storms.”

In response Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated to following;

Funding was requested from the department for repair of coastal damage some time ago and we are waiting to see what level of grant comes as a result of that application.

 

43.  DRUG AWARENESS:

Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey

AND AGREED

“I call on Sligo County Council to promote and support all of the services and relevant agencies that are working to promote the misuse of drugs and the awareness effort to reduce the impact of drug abuse.”

The members had a discussion on this issue and it was suggested by Councillor Mac Manus that the Joint Policing Committee be used as a forum for further discussion.

 

47.  HOLY FAMILY NS TRAFFIC ISSUES:

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

“I am calling on Sligo County Council in the interest of health and safety to

  1. provide flashing lights on R294 at Holy Family N.S., Tubbercurry warning motorists to reduce speed until such time as a safe parking area is in place;
  2. provide an up-date report on transfer of lands at Holy Family N.S from HSE to Council.”

In response Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated to following;

  1. Various signs and road markings already are in place at this school. The type of flashing reduce speed signs referred to are quite expensive and no funding exists for same. It will be a matter for the Municipal District Committee to give it consideration in the context of the 2015 Budget and the Schedule of Municipal District Works.
  2. In relation to the HSE lands adjacent to Holy Family N.S., a deed of transfer is being prepared at present.

Councillor Gormley asked that a costing be sought for the provision of flashing lights. This was agreed by the meeting.

 

48.  FREE SUNDAY PARKING:

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

“That Sligo County Council examine the feasibility of free parking in Sligo town on Sundays.”

Councillor Casserly indicated that she understands Councillor Kilgannon had a similar motion down for the July meeting of the Council but unfortunately she was unable to attend same and wished to highlight the issue again.

Ms Leydon, Head of Finance advised the members that introducing free parking on a Sunday would result in a reduction of income to the council and it would also impact on rate payers who run private car parks. If free parking were introduced parking rates would have to be looked at for the rest of the week.

 

49.  PUBLIC TOILETS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Mac Manus

“That Sligo County Council work towards providing public toilets in Sligo town.”

In response Mr Kilfeather, DOS stated to following;

I can inform Members that at the Sligo Borough Council Meeting of 1st July 2013, Members of the Council approved in accordance with Part 11 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended, and Part 8 (Article 81) of the local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations 2001 (as amended by the Planning and Development Regulations, 2006), the proposed installation of a Public Convenience at the Stephens’ Street Car Park. 

It is proposed that this matter be discussed further at the next Sligo Municipal District Meeting.

The members welcomed this report and Councillor Mac Manus acknowledged the work of former councillor, Matt Lyons in keeping the issue on the provision of public toilets in Sligo town to the fore.

 

51.  VOTES OF SYMPATHY:

Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor S. Kilgannon

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Eileen Gilmartin on the death of her husband, John Gilmartin.”

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Delia Fahy on the death of her husband, Pascal Fahy.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Jerry Dooner on the death of his father, Tom Dooner.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Brett on the death of her mother, Lillie McKim.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Clarke on the death of her mother Mary Finan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to George Faney on the death of his wife, Marian Faney.”

 

Proposed by Councillor J. Lundy
Seconded by Councillor E.

AND AGREED

That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kevin Maye on the death of his mother, Mary Kate Maye.”

 

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

AND AGREED

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to George Faney on the death of his wife, Marian Faney.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Donegan on the death of her husband, Sean Donegan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Imelda Killoran on the death of her sister, Sr. Assumpta Brehony.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kevin Egan on the death of his mother, Eileen Egan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Monica Wynne on the death of her father, Peter James Gallagher.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Kathleen Clarke on the death of her mother Mary Finan.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Margaret Maree on the death of her mother, Margaret Costello.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Jack Murtagh on the death of his wife, Geraldine Murtagh.”

“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mary Teresa Finan on the death of her mother, Mary Kate Maye.”

 

52.  VOTE OF CONGRATULATIONS:

Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor

AND AGREED

“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Conal McCormack on winning the 15 – 18 Bodhrán Competition at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2014.”

The members commended Bartley Gavin and the Fleadh committee on the successful running of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2014. The work of the Gardaí, the volunteers and the Sligo Tidy Towns Committee was also acknowledged by the members.

Mr Gavin thanked the members for their positive comments and accepted their congratulations on behalf of the entire team who worked on the Fleadh.

The CE, Mr Hayes advised the members that a report was being prepared on the running of the Fleadh and the benefits to the local economy and it is hoped to have it ready in the coming months.

 

53.  CONFERENCES:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“That the list of conferences circulated for September at this meeting, are unanimously agreed.”

 

54.  CORRESPONDENCE:

Proposed by Councillor S. Kilgannon
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady

AND AGREED

“To note the correspondence circulated with the agenda.”

 

55.  MATTERS ARISING:

None

 

56.  AOB:

Councillor Gormley thanked recently retired Sligo Champion journalist, Harry Keaney for his service at the Council meetings over the years.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery were conveyed to Kevin Colreavy, Administrative Officer in Corporate Services.

All the members asked to be associated with these comments.

 

END OF MEETING:

The meeting concluded at 4.55pm

 

Download Minutes of September Ordinary Meeting 8th September 2014 (PDF) - 71 kbs  

 

 

 


Meeting Date 08/09/2014