Minutes 2019
Minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting Of Sligo County Council held on Monday, 11th November, 2019
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Baker,
- Councillor Bree,
- Councillor Casserly,
- Councillor Clarke,
- Councillor Connolly,
- Councillor Fox,
- Councillor Gilroy,
- Councillor Healy,
- Councillor MacManus,
- Councillor MacSharry,
- Councillor Maguire,
- Councillor Mullaney,
- Councillor Mulvey,
- Councillor O’Boyle,
- Councillor O’Grady,
- Councillor Queenan,
- Councillor Taylor,
- Councillor Walsh.
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Mr. Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive
- Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Director of Services
- Mr. John Reilly, Head of Enterprise
- Ms. Margaret McConnell, Acting Director of Services
- Ms. Marian O’Callaghan, Acting Senior Architect
- Mr. Frank Moylan, Senior Planner
- Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr. John Moran, Senior Executive Officer
- Mr. Kevin Colreavy, Meetings Administrator
- Ms. Donna Gilmartin, Clerical Officer
- Ms. Jo-Anne McGonigle, Assistant Staff Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Tom MacSharry, presided.
1. MINUTES OF BALLYMOTE-TUBBERCURRY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING HELD ON 29TH JULY, 2019:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District Meeting held on 29th July, 2019.”
2. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 7TH OCTOBER, 2019:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 7th October, 2019.”
3. SECTION 183 OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – LEASE OF PROPERTY AT BALLAST QUAY, SLIGO TO ‘METAL MARINERS’:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the proposed lease of property at Ballast Quay, Sligo to the Metal Mariners CLG.”
4. SECTION 183 OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 53 PARKLANDS, TUBBERCURRY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of property at 53 Parklands, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo to Ellen Walsh.”
5. SECTION 183 OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 2001 – DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AT 22 RUSHEEN CRESCENT
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“To approve, pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, the disposal of property at 22 Rusheen Crescent, Caltragh, Sligo to Dominick O’Connor.”
6. FESTIVALS AND EVENTS STRATEGY FOR COUNTY SLIGO 2020-2024:
With the approval of the Cathaoirleach, this item was deferred to the December Ordinary Meeting Agenda:
“To approve the Festivals and Events Strategy for County Sligo 2020-2024.”
7. 2019 WINTER MAINTENANCE PLAN:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To note the 2019 Winter Maintenance Plan.”
8. TAKING IN CHARGE OF ESTATE KNOWN AS “OAKLAWNS”, CORNAGEEHA:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council commence the process of taking in charge the development known as “Oaklawns”, Sligo by instigating the necessary procedures under Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993 to declare public the road serving the development.”
Councillor O’Grady welcomed the commencement of this process and wished to acknowledge the work of the residents in this Estate. In particular, Mr. Seamus Somers had worked intensively to bring the Estate to this point.
In response to a query from Councillor Gilroy, the meeting was advised that clarity would be sought in relation to the correct name of the estate
9. STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE SCHEME 2019-2024:
Mr. Moran SEO presented a report on the proposed configuration of the Council’s four Strategic Policy Schemes and outlined details of the submissions received during the period of public consultation.
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“To adopt the Strategic Policy Committee Scheme 2019–2024.”
10. ROAD TRAFFIC (SPECIAL SPEED LIMITS) BYE-LAWS 2019:
Mr. Kilfeather, Director of Services, outlined the background to this proposal and the necessity for same.
Councillor O’Grady asked, on a point of information, whether further consideration had been given to speed limits in estates not yet taken in charge. The Director of Services confirmed that this matter would be re-examined.
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“To defer the commencement date of the ‘Road Traffic (Special Speed Limit) Bye-Laws 2019 from 1st November, 2019 to 28th January, 2020. The Road Traffic (Special Speed Limit) (County of Sligo) Bye-Laws 2014 to remain in effect until 27th January, 2020.”
11. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 2019:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Baker
AND AGREED
“To note the Monthly Management Report for September 2019.”
12. REDUCTION OF V.A.T. RATE ON TOURISM:
With the approval of the Cathaoirleach the following item, as listed by Councillor Queenan, was deferred to the December Ordinary Meeting Agenda:
“To call on the Minister for Finance to reduce the V.A.T. rate to 9 per cent on Tourism for the 2020 season.”
13. UPDATE ON ESTABLISHMENT OF SLIGO OLDER PEOPLE’S COUNCIL:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council will provide an update on the status of the establishment of the Sligo Older People’s Council.”
Councillor Maguire outlined the background to the listing of this item on the Agenda.
Ms. McConnell presented a report and it was agreed that it would be circulated to the Members.
14. SEABIN PROJECT:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council will engage with the Seabin Project to examine the possibility of installing one off the Sligo Coastline”.
Mr. Kilfeather reported that the Environment Section would engage with the Seabin Project early in 2020 to examine the possibility of installing the piece of infrastructure. It was suggested that perhaps the most appropriate location to trial the project in Sligo was on the Garavogue river before the water course entered the sea.
15. COLUMBARIUM FOR ROSSES POINT CEMETERY:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council will renew my call for a Columbarium for Rosses Point cemetery.”
The meeting was informed by Mr. Kilfeather that discussions had taken place with community representatives regarding the installation of a Columbarium in the Graveyard to provide for the respectful storage of cinerary urns. This was not as an alternative to the provision of a new burial ground but to offer some opportunity to allow the Rosses Point community to continue to avail of St. Columba’s Cemetery. It was intended to include the work in the Council’s 2020 Work Programme.
Councillor Maguire welcomed the report and referred to the installation of a Columbarium in Sligo Cemetery having been successful.
Councillor Gilroy agreed and added that this was an option that should be looked at for other areas.
In concluding the discussion, the Cathaoirleach welcomed the report and noted that the lack of a Burial Ground in Rosses Point was still to the fore.
16. NEARLY ZERO ENERGY BUILDINGS (NZEB):
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“In view of the upcoming NZEB and the introduction of Technical Guidance Document Part L – Conservation of Fuel and Energy – Dwellings (2019) on November 1st 2019, can Sligo County Council report on
- How many new houses were completed in County Sligo in each of the years 2017 and 2018.
- How many new houses completed in County Sligo in each of the years 2017 and 2018 had a BER Certificate published as required by PART L – CONSERVATION OF FUEL AND ENERGY – DWELLINGS (2011).
- How many new houses completed in County Sligo in 2018 had a BER Certificate published that showed full compliance with as required by PART L – CONSERVATION OF FUEL AND ENERGY – DWELLINGS (2011).
Can this information be provided in writing in advance of the Council Meeting on November 4th so that Members can absorb the figures. These figures should be available from Sligo County Council’s own resources and from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.”
Mr. Moylan responded to the queries raised as follows:
- The number of new dwellings (including houses and apartments) that completed a Certificate of Compliance on Completion for 2017 was 31 and for 2018 was 44. Please note that this does not include those one off houses which opt out of the BCMS System.
- Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is the issuing Authority responsible for the administration of the BER System. From the National BER Research Tool on the SEAI website, it was ascertained that 46 dwellings completed in 2017 and 53 dwellings in 2018 had a BER published with SEAI.
It is noted that the publication of a BER is not a requirement of Part L of the Building Regulations. It is, however, a requirement of the European Union (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations, 2012 which the SEAI have responsibility for.
- In 2018, there were 53 BERs published for houses completed in County Sligo. This information was also ascertained from the National BER Research Tool on the SEAI website.”
- Is consideration been given for a different access route to the identified site during either during or after development of the site so as to alleviate traffic volume in the existing Maugheraboy Estate;
- If no such new access route is identified, will there be any upgrading works on the existing road network, including the junction on the Maugheraboy Road at the Post Office and approach roads to the development to ensure access for pedestrians, especially the elderly and physically disabled;
- Is consideration be given as to how to incorporate the existing enclosed all-weather pitch area, adjacent to the site but in serious disrepair, into Stage 2 as an enhanced recreational facility?”
Councillor Gilroy sought clarification on elements of the report and this was provided by Mr. Moylan.
17. TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON NEWGRANGE ROAD IN GRANGE VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That traffic calming measures be considered on the Newgrange road in Grange Village between the new school car park and Glenview housing estate in order to slow down traffic on that very busy road.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported that Sligo County Council will review the matter and determine the most appropriate and cost effective solution. There is no funding available for these works. Councillors’ proposals could possibly be used to fund the scheme once costs are determined.
In response to a query from Councillor Casserly, Mr. Kilfeather advised that, due to staff shortages, he was not in a position to confirm when they would be able to address this issue
18. REMOVAL OF CLIMBING LANE ON N15 SOUTH OF GRANGE VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To request a report on the possibility of removing the climbing lane heading south from Grange on the N15 re. issues raised over the past number of years in relation to road safety concerns, and to request that funding be provided for resurfacing that section of road out of the village as it is need of urgent attention.”
Sligo County Council’s Road Design Section had completed a feasibility study for the removal of the climbing lane in Grange due to local representation and to update the road layout in the area. The study had been submitted to Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s Safety Section and their review was awaited. The Scheme would require detailed design and auditing prior to receiving funding, the meeting was informed by Mr. Kilfeather.
19. & 26. PARKING IN BALLISODARE VILLAGE:
The Cathaoirleach said that, as both items 19 and 26 referred to this matter, he would take the two items at this time.
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to investigate the possibility of introducing short stay parking on Ballisodare main street coupled with residents parking permits to alleviate long term parking issues being experienced by main street dwellers and to also look at a suitable location for disabled parking.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
"To ask the Roads Section to consider the introduction of Parking Bye-Laws on Main Street, Ballisodare that would restrict Parking times to a maximum of 2 hours. There is a difficulty with finding parking in the Village which is impacting on Businesses in the Village. And, also, the need to provide Residents Parking Permits and the need to provide a disabled car park space on the main street.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported that the introduction of short stay parking i.e. 2 hours parking would involve the introduction of parking bye-laws, installation of signage/parking meters and most important enforcement by way of Traffic Wardens. Parking restrictions are only implemented in Sligo Town and in no other town in the County. Given the small area involved it would seem that Infrastructure, maintenance and staffing costs of such a proposal would far exceed the financial return to the Council. No consideration to such a Scheme has been factored into any Budget 2020 proposals.
The Area Engineer has been in discussion with residents and businesses on the street and has identified a location for a disabled parking bay which shall be lined and signed in the coming weeks.
20. ROAD RESURFACING WORKS IN HILLVIEW DRIVE ESTATE, BALLYMOTE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
“To ask Sligo County Council to allocate funding for road resurfacing works to be carried out in Hillview Drive Local Authority Estate, Ballymote.”
The Director of Services informed the Meeting that the surfacing of the roads in Hillview Drive will be considered for funding along with the other roads in the county under a future Restoration Improvement Programme. A Multi-Annual Restoration Improvement Programme for 2019 – 2021 has been agreed and the surfacing of the roads in Hillview Drive is not included in this.
21. LAND/PLOTS IN SLIGO HARBOUR AREA:
Councillor MacManus requested that the following item would be listed on the December Agenda. The Cathaoirleach consented to this request.
“That the County Council list all the lands/plots in the Sligo harbour area that were transferred from Sligo Harbour Commission to Sligo County Council in 2006 or had at any stage been previously owned by the Harbour Commission.
Further, to detail whether such lands are currently subject to leasehold or freehold; who the current leasee or freeholder is; the commencement and length of the lease or the year and value of the sale.”
22. REVERSE VENDING MACHINE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To explore the possibility of obtaining a reverse vending machine for the City of Sligo, such as the one recently launched in Monaghan. The vending machine allows people to bring their clean and empty plastic bottles for recycling, and then gives out vouchers worth 10 cent.”
Mr. Kilfeather informed the meeting that this initiative was launched in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan four weeks ago and has exceeded all expectations with over 27k bottles collected to date. Following discussions with those involved in this pilot, the outright cost of providing this service over a 12 month period is approximately €18,000. This is a local Tidy Towns project with support from three sponsors i.e. Monaghan County Council, a local recycling company and Supervalu. Due to the level of interest they have received to date, they plan to hold a seminar in early 2020 to provide further information to those interested in rolling out this initiative in their local area. Discussions are also ongoing with Repak and the DCCAE. Currently, Sligo County Council does not have a budget for the current roll out of this initiative; however, the Environment Section will monitor progress of this project and will attend the proposed seminar in 2020.
Councillor Casserly thanked the Director of Services for the positive report.
Councillor Maguire also welcomed the report and referred to her motion which had been agreed by the Members at the July Ordinary Meeting supporting the introduction of the GLAN (Green Local Area Network) initiative in Sligo in conjunction with Clean Coasts and An Taisce.
Councillor Gilroy added that he had spoken with two Supervalu Shop Owners who were willing to get behind the initiative.
23. KAZELAIN HOUSE, FINISKLIN:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to prepare an up to date report on Kazelain House, Finisklin Road, Sligo.”
The meeting was informed by Mr. Murphy, SEO, that the Council is actively exploring a number of options and is also in discussions with an Approved Housing Body to see if the building can be used for social housing. The building is still in the ownership of Finisklin Housing Association Ltd.
Members put forward possible uses for the 16 bedroom premises known as “Kazelain House” and these were noted.
24. PUBLICATION OF CLEAN AIR STRATEGY:
Proposed by Councillor S. Maguire
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council calls on the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment Richard Bruton to publish before the end of the year the cross-Governmental Clean Air Strategy and introduce a prohibition on the sale, distribution and use of bituminous coal across the country, including all of County Sligo.”
25. SAFETY ASSESSMENT OF JUNCTION ON MAIN COOLANEY TO COLLOONEY ROAD (L2101) AT GLEN:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to complete a safety assessment of the junction along the main Collooney to Coolaney Road, L2101 (at Glen) at the crossroads for Bella, Collooney and to provide a report on the same.”
Mr. Kilfeather informed the meeting that, as resources allow, Sligo County Council would inspect the location with a view to determining if there were any improvements that could be made at the junction.
Councillor Walsh acknowledged the content of the report and said it was an extremely dangerous crossroads. He had also spoken with the Area Engineer and the Roads Policing Unit in An Garda Síochána and asked for their assistance. Councillor Healy supported the motion and said this had been brought to the attention of the Council.
27. ST. NATHY’S CEMETERY, COLLOONEY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council for a report on the amount of burial plots available in St. Nathy’s Cemetery in Collooney and is Sligo County Council seeking to extend the cemetery grounds in the near future.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported that there were approximately 25-30 new plots left in the new Cemetery in Collooney.
The Council would be open to progressing with the Local Community options in terms of identifying a piece of ground preferably adjacent to the existing Cemetery to meet longer term needs.
Councillor Healy confirmed that these were the concerns that had been brought to his attention. Councillor Walsh supported the motion and said this was the same situation as had arisen in North Sligo
The Director of Services confirmed that the Council had to bear some costs for purchasing and preparing lands. It would probably fall back on Council resources unless there was a landowner who was prepared to be generous. This was proving to be a very difficult area to meet demands of communities. The Council had drawn down a loan in 2008 of €750,000 for Burial Ground improvements. Some of that money had been spent in the current year on the extension of cemetery in Sligo. This matter was going to be a challenge going forward.
Councillor Healy confirmed that he would continue to work with the community on this matter.
28. DESIGN FOR JUNCTION OF ROADS R284 AND L-3605-0:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
“To ask Sligo County Council’s Roads Department to design a drawing on the R284 to address the sight lines at the junction which connects R284 with the L/3605/0 as a number of accidents have occurred at this junction and to apply for funding under the low cost accident schemes.”
The Meeting was informed by Mr. Kilfeather that the application for the 2020 Low Cost Accident Schemes has been submitted. Consideration will be given to including this location in the 2021 application. However, it is considered that the maintenance and reduction in height of roadside hedges by adjacent landowners may improve visibility at this junction.
29. REQUEST FOR O.P.W. TO PURCHASE PREMISES IN TUBBERCURRY FOR GARDA STATION:
Proposed by Councillor M. Connolly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to write to the Minister for the O.P.W., Kevin Boxer Moran, to strongly encourage his Department to purchase the vacant office building that has now come on the market for a new Garda station in Tubbercurry.”
30. AWARDING OF CONNACHT FLEADH 2020:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Noting that Sligo town has been awarded the Connacht Fleadh for 2020; and further noting that over three decades have passed since Sligo town last hosted the provincial fleadh in 1986; this Council acknowledges with thanks the decision of the Connacht Council of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann to award the Connacht Fleadh to Sligo and assures Comhaltas that Sligo County Council will support the event in so far as resources allow.”
Members referred to support in the region of €25,000 having been sought and asked that the Council would provide as much resources as possible to those hosting the Connacht Fleadh.
31. SOCIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN MAUGHERABOY:
Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Recognising that Sligo County Council are in the process of preparing a submission to proceed to Stage 2 of the proposed 62 no. social housing development in Maugheraboy, to ask:
LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH:
The Leas-Cathaoirleach took the Chair at 2.35 p.m. as the Cathaoirleach had to leave the meeting for a short time. The Cathaoirleach resumed the Chair at 2.40 p.m.
31. SOCIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN MAUGHERABOY:
Ms. O’Callaghan reported as follows:
Work is underway on the preparation of designs and costings for a Stage 2 submission to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG) for the Maugherboy scheme. It is proposed to utilise the existing road network to access this site, both during the construction and on completion. Traffic management strategies will be required as part of the contract to limit disturbance as much as possible.
A request for a budget to upgrade the existing all weather pitch, was included as part of the stage 1 submission to the department, but was rejected in the DHPLG Stage 1 outline budget approval, with the associated comment ‘Costs associated with Play areas omitted as such works are not ordinarily considered to be eligible for funding under Social Housing Investment Programme.’
The Council will continue to endeavour to seek funds to provide for the upgrade of the play area, as it would be a welcome addition for the local community.
Councillor MacManus expressed his disappointment that there was not going to be an alternative access to the new development. This would require upgrading of the road and sought clarification of the precise location in relation to Maugheraboy Post Office. This could mean an additional 80-80 vehicles using the junction every day.
Further disappointment was expressed about the needs of the local community not being taken into account by upgrading the disused recreational facilities already in the area.
32. PROTECTION OF QUEEN MAEVE’S CAIRN:
Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor S. Maguire
AND AGREED
“To ask what progress has been made regarding the matter of protecting Queen Maeve’s Cairn since the matter was raised at the January 2019 Monthly Meeting.”
Mr. Moylan advised the meeting that the responsibility for the ongoing preservation, protection and management of the Monument was a matter for the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in partnership with the Office of Public Works. Sligo County Council’s role in that regard was to facilitate and support the actions proposed by the Office of Public Works and the Department to secure the long term protection and appropriate management of Queen Maeve’s Cairn.
The meeting was further informed by Mr. Moylan that it was his understanding the Office of Public Works was going to advertise for consultants to prepare the Plan. This would be discussed at the upcoming meeting with them.
Councillor Maguire noted that she had been actively involved in this area for some time. Despite signage having been erected at several locations, difficulties were encountered by those attempting to point out to visitors that the Cairn should not be climbed or tampered with.
Councillor Gilroy stated that a Management Plan was required for the Cairn and that the Heritage Forum should have an involvement in the process.
33. PAVEMENT UPGRADE FROM MUNNINANE TO CASTLEGARRON:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
“To call on Sligo County Council in light of the recent decision by TII not to proceed with resurfacing this year between Munninane and Castlegarron and instead to do a full Pavement upgrade from Grange to Castlegarron in 2020 as advised recently to carry out a detailed safety audit on every junction and entrance from the 50KM speed limit South of Grange to L3304 at Castlegarron.
and
To ensure that this once in a generation opportunity to get the pavement, road alignment and lane layout finished to the safest possible standards is taken at the most cost effective and opportune time.”
Mr. Kilfeather advised the meeting that:
TII is now proposing to fund a significant overlay project from Grange to Castlegarron in 2020 rather than carrying out a much smaller scheme in the Munninane area at the end of 2019. This large overlay scheme will require to be surveyed and designed and its implementation will be subject to staff resources being available to design and manage same. It should be noted that a large overlay scheme costing about €2.5m is to commence on the N15 in the Cliffoney area and will be completed in early 2020. These overlay projects are intended to renew and strengthen the road surface and structure and are not intended for carrying out realignments of the road.
TII have recently completed a survey of the N15 under their HD17 Programme in an effort to identify any locations which may benefit under Low Cost Safety Improvement Works. Such works may include ie improvement of visibility at junctions, etc. Sligo County Council will review this survey and will be identifying Low Cost Safety Improvement works that may be appropriate along the route. Sligo County Council will include in the large pavement overlay contracts any Low Cost Improvement works where it is deemed appropriate and expedient to do so. These works will depend on staff resources being available to do same in 2020.
Councillor Gilroy thanked the Director of Services for his report. In response to queries from Councillor Gilroy in relation to accessing information in the TII report, Mr. Kilfeather advised that clarified that the document referred to was a work in progress and once the report was published, it would be circulated.
34. ADVANCEMENT OF ZONE OF NORTH SLIGO/LEITRIM (BEN BULBEN AND HINTERLAND) AS NATIONAL PARK/
RECREATION AREA:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
“To call on Sligo County Council To support the advancement of the zone of North Sligo / North Leitrim (Ben Bulben and its hinterland) as potential National Parks/National recreation area’s and to enable collaboration in this regard with stakeholders including NPWS, Local Authorities, Department of Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht, Local Communities and Landowners.
This proposal is part of the RSES and could deliver untold benefits to not only the National Park / National Recreation area from the Atlantic to the Borders with Donegal Fermanagh and Cavan but also to the Urban Area of Sligo that will benefit through increased tourist numbers for Accommodation, Food and Shopping.”
Mr. Moylan outlined the details in response to this motion and informed the Members that the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the North and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) had not yet been completed. Material amendments to the draft RSES went to public consultation stage between 4th August and 11th October, 2019.
The NWRA was considering the submissions received relating to the Material Amendments. A report would then be prepared and would go to the Assembly for an ultimate decision on whether or not to include MA16 as part of the RSES. It would, therefore, be considered premature for Sligo County Council to support the objective pending the finalisation of the RSES.
Notwithstanding the above, there would appear to be a significant absence of clarity on the process of designating such parks. There would not appear to be any governing legislation, which presents significant questions in relation to the process involved and the role of Sligo County Council in supporting any such process. Furthermore, all six of the existing National Parks in Ireland were fully owned and managed by the State through the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). Given that most of the lands around Benbulben were in private ownership, it was difficult to see how plans to designate the area as a National Park could be advanced as envisaged by the motion, Mr. Moylan concluded.
35. ACCESSING FUNDING FROM EU:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“To call on Sligo County Council in light of the impending departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union to Assign an Appropriate staff member to work full time on accessing funding from European Institutions such as INTERREG and INTERACT (ERDF Funds)
Other Local Authorities in the NWRA Region have already this person in place and Sligo will once again be left behind if we do not source this funding directly ourselves as there is no interest or advantage to National Government or Institutions to do this on our behalf
Cross Border funding will also become available to support a region on the border of a “Third Country” and a group of Irish and therefore EU Citizens living in Northern Ireland will be disenfranchised from EU Funds and all applications will have to be made through Local Authorities in the Border Region. This will reverse the previous situation where Cross Border funds were administered from the other side of the border. This opportunity should not be missed.”
Councillor Gilroy outlined the reasons behind his listing of this motion. While understanding the appointment would be an Executive decision, he was hopeful it would be considered. This was supported by Councillor Bree. Councillor Maguire noted the funding drawn down through ICBAN in the last 20 years. Ms. McConnell presented a report setting out details of the E.U. and Cross-Border funding process. Among the details set out were also lists of projects which had received funding through two different E.U. programmes – the Atlantic Area Programme and INTERREG Europe.
The Local Enterprise Office was a member of the Enterprise Europe Network which assisted businesses to internationalise and grow. Its predecessor, the County Enterprise Board, was involved in securing INTERREG, IFI and Peace funding for several workspace projects around the county.
Significant staff resources were required to ensure a continuous pipeline of potential projects that could be submitted for E.U. funding Programmes and to implement projects and service associated reporting and audit requirements where funding would be made available. The emphasis by the E.U. in relation to the various funding programmes available was more on the development of policy interventions and promotion of best practices across the E.U. with minimal funding provided for direct capital interventions.
36. IMPROVEMENT OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Recognising:- (a) the negative impact of Climate Change (b) the councils responsibility to reduce and mitigate its impact on a changing climate; this meeting requests the Chief Executive to provide a report on the efforts of the Council to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
Councillor Bree outlined details from the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (N.E.E.A.P.) which had set out several obligations on public bodies, including County Councils, to lead the way in relation to energy efficiency. According to the most recent report on the performance of public bodies (Annual Report 2018), Sligo County Council had the second worst record in the country in terms of local authority energy efficiency performance at 7.7%
The Chief Executive said that the points raised were a matter of fact, but in the context of the challenges presented by our legacy debt, the Executive had addressed the issue proactively and positively and were leading out with some good initiatives. He called for the Members’ support for the various projects, including the air quality venture with Cranmore Steering Committee. He was currently involved in leading an initiative with Electricity Suppliers and Generators on behalf of Sligo County Council and other local authorities, and means of improving the efficiency of swimming pools was also being explored.
In response to further queries, the Chief Executive said he would welcome any proposals put forward in this regard by Councillor Bree.
37. & 47. PROVISION OF A BOAT PARK IN ROSSES POINT:
As Items 37 and 47 both referred to this matter, the Cathaoirleach dealt with both at this time.
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox
AND AGREED
“That the Council indicate its support for the carrying out of a feasibility study to investigate the options of further developing boating facilities including the provision of a boat park in Rosses Point.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to support the Rosses Point Development Association Feasibility Study Application for the development of Sligo community boat park which would enhance commercial, tourism and marine berthing facilities based in Rosses Point.”
Ms. McConnell SEO informed the meeting that from discussions that were held with representatives of Rosses Point Development Association (RPDA), it appears that RPDA are currently engaging with the Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG – Fisheries LEADER Programme) on funding for the feasibility of developing a boat park in Rosses Point. The location (as previously identified by Sligo County Council) is to the west of existing pier towards Jackson’s Pier-direction of Yacht Club. They are proposing to expand the remit of the study to include both commercial and leisure craft.
RPDA are currently seeking support from Sligo County Council so they can leverage up to100% of the FLAG funding available for feasibility studies. Our office has been advised that no cash contribution is being requested from the Council to support the project application. Sligo County Council would have no issue with supporting such a worthwhile project and will advise and support RPDA in any way possible during the feasibility study process.
38. DRAINAGE WORK ON RIVER ALONG R293 STONEPARK, BALLYMOTE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
“To ask Sligo County Council to allocate funding to allow for drainage work on the river along R293 at Stonepark, Ballymote due to flooding concerns of local residents.”
In reply to this resolution, Mr. Kilfeather informed the Meeting that Sligo County Council were not responsible for the maintenance of rivers or streams and, therefore, were not in a position to carry out drainage work along this area.
39. APPOINTMENT OF SPEECH THERAPIST AT ST. CECELIA’S SCHOOL, CREGG, CO. SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To request the urgent appointment of a Speech Therapist at St. Cecelia’s School, following interviews held earlier this year”.
Members present added their support to this resolution and set out the resultant difficulties from this vacancy not being filled for Students and their Carers/Families.
40. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT BRAIN INJURY UNIT IN TONAPHUBBLE:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry
AND AGREED
“To request an update on the provision of the Pedestrian Crossing at the Brain Injury Unit in Tonaphubble.”
A Walkability Audit was undertaken on July 3rd last involving Disability Organisations, the Local Residents Association and SCC Engineering staff. Arising from this a submission for a Pedestrian Crossing at 2 Racecourt Manor, Tonaphubble has been included in our 2020 Low Cost Safety Improvement Works Application to the Department of Transport Tourism and Sport, Mr. Kilfeather advised the Meeting.
Councillor O’Grady welcomed the report and thanked the Director of Services for the commitment. The Cathaoirleach also reiterated the need for the crossing and referred to having participated in the Walkability Audit in recent months.
41. PROVISION OF FOOTPATH FROM HOLY WELL ROAD TO TONAPHUBBLE:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To request an update on the provision of a footpath towards the Holy Well Road from Tonaphubble.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported that the provision of a footpath at this location would involve land acquisition, and associated works including public lighting and surface water drainage works etc. Such improvement works will require a significant budget and unfortunately there is currently no funding available to carry out a scheme of this nature.
However this scheme will be considered further as staffing and funding resources become available.
Members added their support for this development and also enquired whether this would be a proposal the Department should be providing due to the number of facilities in the area together with traffic from Dromahair and Ballintogher. Mr. Kilfeather responded that all the applications would be a matter for Government Agencies and any works would complement the Scheme.
The Cathaoirleach said he was aware that there were ongoing discussions with landowners in the area and it was hoped that this would yield fruit in the next year or so.
42. FUNDING FOR PROVISION OF A WALKWAY ON THE NORTHERN SIDE OF THE GARAVOGUE RIVER:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council put a plan in place and seek funding for the provision of a walkway on the northern side of the Garavogue River.”
Ms. McConnell SEO presented a report setting out how Sligo County Council was investigating the potential to achieve a dedicated recreational access along the northern bank of the river between Ardaghowen Lane and Hazelwood (known locally as the Lady Ann Walk). This would support further recreational enhancement in the area if prior successful negotiation and agreement with the local Landowners could be secured.
LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH:
As the Cathaoirleach had to attend a prior engagement, Councillor O’Boyle, Leas-Cathaoirleach took the Chair at 3.55 p.m.
43. HOUSES AFFECTED BY PYRITE IN COUNTY SLIGO:
With the agreement of the Cathaoirleach, the following motion as listed by Councillor Queenan was deferred to the December Agenda:
“To call on the Minister for Environment to include houses in County Sligo for compensation regarding pyrite defects in their property.”
44. TAKING IN CHARGE OF HOUSING ESTATES IN ENNISCRONE:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“To ask the County Manager to outline what plans he has to take in charge Housing Estates in Enniscrone that are constructed over 20 years.”
Mr. Moylan reported that under Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 as amended Sligo County Council can only initiate the Taking in Charge of an Estate under Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993 where requested by the person who carried out the development or by the majority of the owners of the houses involved. Where this occurs the Planning Enforcement Section opens a Taking in Charge file on the estate and arranges for inspections to take place to ensure the estate has been completed to a satisfactory standard and to the satisfaction of the Planning Authority in accordance with the permission and conditions to which the permission is subject. Each application is looked at on an individual basis.
It is the policy of Sligo County Council not to take in charge holiday home developments of residential developments used entirely for short-term lettings or apartment developments as these are maintained by management companies.
In noting the report, Councillor Queenan said this involved eight estates with approximately 250 houses, some built over 20 years ago. Residents in these homes paid their Local Property Tax. Most of these houses were no longer holiday homes and Sligo County Council had bought houses in one of the Estates referred to. Bonds had been returned to the developers by Sligo County Council and now there was no funding to put street lighting in the estates. Sligo County Council would have to make an effort to try and take them in charge.
Councillor Clarke noted that Sligo County Council would have to be more proactive in resolving the difficulties encountered by residents in the estates affected.
45. UPGRADING OF BROADBAND SUPPLY IN CASTLEBALDWIN VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Baker
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“To contact Eir to get an update regarding the upgrading of the broadband supply in Castlebaldwin village. 90% of the work appears to have been carried out so can they advise when this will be completed”.
46. ASSESSMENT OF ROAD SURFACE AT URLAR, CARNEY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to assess the road surface at Urlar, Carney and provide a report on same.”
The local road referred to is L-34021 which is a Local Tertiary road. This road is not included in the 2019-2021 Multi Annual Restoration Improvement programme and given that it is a Class 3 road it is unlikely to be considered for resurfacing works in the near future as the priority will be given to Class 1 and 2 roads with the limited funding resources available. However it will be included in the pothole maintenance programme, Mr. Kilfeather informed the Meeting.
48. SAFETY ASSESSMENT OF SPEED LEVELS IN BALLYGAWLEY VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to carry out a safety assessment of current speed levels in Ballygawley Village and to make application for the provision of safety measures to address concerns.”
Mr. Kilfeather reported to the Meeting that significant Traffic Calming and resurfacing works were carried out through the village of Ballygawley in recent years. However, Sligo County Council will as resources allow, assess speed levels to determine the extent of speeding through the village.
49. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Peggy Gillen and family of Aughagad, Grange on the death of her husband, Michael.
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Carmel and Hugh Clancy of Cloonacrin, Grange on the death of Carmel’s sister, Claire McMorrow.
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Maria Cox of Jinks Avenue, Sligo on the death of her mother, Peggy.
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Jim Feeney of Kintogher, Sligo on the death of his wife, Una.
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Tomás McGloin of Newtownward, Grange on the death of his wife, Anne.
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Pat and John Barry of Mullaghmore on the death of their mother, Philomena.
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Siobhán O’Brien of Grange on the death of her mother, Ann (Nan) McMahon.
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Paddy Hennessy of Kiernan Avenue, Collooney on the death of his wife, Vivienne.
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Sean, Padraig and Marie Collery of Ballygawley on the death of their father, Jim.
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the Perry Family of Cloonameehan, Bunninadden on the death of their mother, Mary.
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Myriam Leyden of Ard-na-Veigh, Sligo on the death of her husband, Michael.
50. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Clodagh Quinn of Castlegal and Sligo County Council on completion of the Dublin City Marathon 2019.
Proposed by Councillor C. MacManus
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND RESOLVED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Basil Harte of Riverside, Sligo on receipt of a National Bravery Award relating to his actions of saving three individuals in February 2017 adjacent to the Riverside Hotel who got into difficulty in the Garavogue.”
51. CONFERENCES AND TRAINING:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND RESOLVED
“To approve Conferences/Training listing as received.”
52. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND RESOLVED
“To note the summary of proceedings of conferences attended in accordance with Section 142(5) (f) of the Local Government Act, 2001.”
53. CORRESPONDENCE:
The Members noted the correspondence received.
54. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
No matter was raised under this heading.
55. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
Councillor Walsh referred to Item 6 on the Agenda which was being deferred to the December Meeting Agenda:
“To approve the Festivals and Events Strategy for County Sligo 2020-2024.”
He enquired as to level of consultation to date and asked if there would be a public consultation process. Ms. McConnell, Acting Director of Services, advised that all Festival Promoters were asked to participate and that had informed the draft coming before the Members. If there was someone the Member was aware of that had not been contacted, there were a number of weeks remaining in the process.
Councillor Walsh confirmed that he would be in contact with Ms. McConnell’s office in this regard. Councillor Gilroy added that he would also like to be included in the consultation process as he was aware of some further Community Groups in the process of trying to establish some Festivals/Events.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the meeting concluded at 4.10 p.m.
Meeting Date 11/11/2019