Minutes 2023
Minutes of Adjourned Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held at 2pm. on Monday 6th November 2023 in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
Baker, Bree, Casserly, Clarke, Connolly, Fox, Gibbons, Gilroy, Healy, MacSharry (R), Maguire(R), Mullaney, Mulvey, O’Boyle O’Grady, Queenan, Taylor and Walsh.
(R) = participated in the meeting remotely
(C) = participated via County Hall Video Link
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Martin Lydon, Chief Executive
- Fineen O’Driscoll, A/Director of Services
- Joe Murphy, A/Director of Services
- Marie Whelan, Head of Finance
- Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services
- John Moran, A/Director of Services
- Conor McCann, Senior Executive Engineer
- Seán Martin, Senior Architect
- Sinéad Branley, Meetings Administrator
- Pauline Lavelle, Staff Officer.
- Francis Conboy, IS Technical Support Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Gerard Mullaney, presided.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEETING:
The Cathaoirleach welcomed all present to the meeting. The Cathaoirleach also welcomed 1st Year ATU Business students to the Chamber, who were present to observe the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF SPC 1 GROUP (HOUSING & CORPORATE) HELD ON 21ST MARCH 2023:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Meeting of the SPC 1 Group (Housing & Corporate) held on 21st March 2023.”
2. MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF SPC 2 GROUP (ENVIRONMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE) HELD ON (A) 14TH MARCH 2023, AND (B) 13TH JUNE 2023:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To confirm Minutes of Meetings of SPC 2 Group (Environment & Infrastructure) held on (a) 14th March 2023 and, (b) 13th June 2023.”
3. MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF SPC 4 GROUP (CLIMATE CHANGE) HELD ON (A) 30TH MARCH 2023, AND (B) 19TH JULY 2023:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor M. Connolly
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Meetings SPC 4 Group (Climate Change) held on (a) 30th March 2023, and (b) 19th July 2023.”
4. MINUTES OF MEETING OF COUNTY SLIGO JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE (JPC) HELD ON 30TH JUNE 2023:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To note the minutes of Meeting of County Sligo Joint Policing Committee (JPC) held on 30th June 2023.”
5. MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE HELD ON 18TH JULY 2023:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of the Audit Committee Meeting held on 18th July 2023.”
6. MINUTES OF ORDINARY MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL HELD ON 2ND OCTOBER 2023:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Sligo County Council held on 2nd October 2023.”
7. MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER THE DRAFT COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2024-2030 HELD ON 2ND OCTOBER 2023:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“To confirm minutes of Special Meeting of Sligo County Council to consider the Draft County Development Plan 2024-2030 held on 2nd October 2023.”
8. PRESENTATION ON THE STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE MODEL:
“Presentation on the Strategic Plan for the Model.”
The Cathaoirleach welcomed Ms. Emer McGarry and Ms. Bláithín Gallagher from the Model Centre to the meeting. Ms. McGarry gave a presentation on the new Strategic Plan for the Model which sets out the Model’s vision, strategic priorities and aims over the next five years. The presentation also gave a brief outline of some of the projects currently in development in Sligo, in conjunction with local communities. A copy of the presentation was circulated to the Members after the meeting.
The Members thanked Ms. McGarry for the very comprehensive and detailed presentation and commended the staff for their work.
In response to queries/comments from the Members, Ms. McGarry advised as follows:
In relation to the Model’s income streams, it strongly identifies as a not-for-profit organisation and where possible, endeavours to keep many of the programmes free of charge. When the Niland collection tours to other venues a fee is applied. As there is already a well- established theatre in Sligo, the Model must be cognisant of not being in direct competition. A small number of weddings have been hosted in the Model, but such events are time consuming, and may impinge on the ability of the Model to fulfil its own remit.
The Model generates between €30,000 - €40,000 per annum through room/space hire. Ms. McGarry added that the Model is currently involved in a pilot programme with the Arts Council to develop late night events in Sligo. It is hoped that this can generate additional income if successful.
Ms. Bláithín Gallagher, Chair of the Model, thanked the Members for the opportunity to speak at today’s meeting and present an overview of the work done at the Model. Ms. Gallagher stated that, in order to break the disconnect between the local community and the Model, as noted by Cllr. Bree, it is important that the Members visit the Model and encourage their constituents to do so also, in order to showcase the work of the Model and embed it in the hearts and minds of the people of the North-west. Ms. Gallagher, in conclusion, stated that she is very appreciative of the Council’s support.
9. REPORT OF SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL’S AUDIT COMMITTEE ON THE STATUTORY AUDIT REPORT FOR YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2022:
AND AGREED
“To note the report of Sligo County Council’s Audit Committee on the Statutory Audit Report for year ending 31st December 2022.”
This item was noted by the Members.
10. LEASE OF LANDS AT DROMORE, CO SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001, the lease of lands at Dromore, Co Sligo to NBI.”
11. CAS LOAN TO SOPHIA HOUSING ASSOCIATION – 6 CARTRON COURT, CARTRON, SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“To approve in accordance with Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992, and Regulations thereunder, provision of assistance in the form of the Capital Assistance Scheme Loan in the amount of €121,954 to Sophia Housing Association Company Limited by Guarantee in respect of No. 6 Cartron Court, Cartron, Sligo.”
12. MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2023:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
“To note the Monthly Management Report for October 2023.”
13. SUPPORT FOR MACRA NA FEIRME EFFORTS TO ENSURE FUTURE FOR YOUTH IN RURAL IRELAND:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“Call on Government parties to support Macra na Feirme efforts to ensure that the youth will have a future in rural Ireland.”
14. MEETING WITH MINISTER TO DISCUSS THE HOUSING CRISIS IN COUNTY SLIGO:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor O’Boyle, was deferred until the December Ordinary meeting.
15. UPDATE ON FUTURE PLANS ON REALIGNMENT OF N16:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“Given the strategic importance of the N16 National Primary Route to County Sligo, I ask that an update be provided to members on any future plans to continue the realignment for the full length of the N16 in County Sligo.”
In a report previously circulated, Members were advised of the future plans in relation to the continued realignment of the N16 in County Sligo.
16. REFORM OF GOVERNMENT RETROFITTING PROGRAMME:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Councillor Healy, was deferred until the December Ordinary meeting.
19. CALL ON MINISTER TO AMEND CRITERIA FOR CE SCHEMES:
Proposed by Councillor M. Clarke
Seconded by Councillor J. Queenan
AND AGREED
"Given the importance of CE Schemes in every community and the difficulty finding suitable candidates to fill those positions, Sligo County Council calls on the Minister to (1) amend the criteria to either reduce or remove the qualifying period of time that must be spent on social welfare to qualify for the scheme; (2) extend the consecutive period of time a person can spend on CE from 3 to 6 years; (3) increase the CE rates to incentive social welfare recipients to apply for the scheme."
During a discussion on the motion, Councillor Connolly queried if the motion could be amended to include Pobal employees.
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney, added that many people not currently eligible to participate in CE schemes, such as Ukrainian refugees on Jobseekers Allowance, should be allowed to participate in such schemes and should be made aware of their existence.
Councillor Clarke stated that he will be raising this matter with the AILG, to request them to make representations with the Minister and requested that his party colleagues would also make representations to their Dáil party colleagues to raise the matter with the Minister.
20. UPDATE FROM HSE ON 42 BED MEDICAL BLOCK AT SLIGO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council contact the HSE relative to providing this Local Authority with an update on the construction start date and completion date on the urgently needed 42 bed medical block at Sligo University Hospital as outlined in the HSE Capital Plan 2023.
- (capital project number 11429) Sligo University Hospital Additional Bed Capacity: Provision of a 2 x 21 bed wards, single en suite rooms with ancillary accommodation.
That this council seeks an update from the Minister for Health and the CE of the Saolta Group.”
Following a discussion, it was further agreed that past correspondence received from the HSE in response to Members questions is unsatisfactory and the Members agreed a letter would issue to Mr. Bernard Gloster, CEO of the HSE, to bring this matter to his attention. The Members commended the staff at Sligo University Hospital for their professionalism and courtesy.
21. FORMATION OF FESTIVAL & EVENTS STEERING TEAM FOR COUNTY SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Fox
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council formally form a festival and events steering team for County Sligo made up of nominated stakeholders. That this Committee could have oversight on Queen Maeve Square and Cleveragh Outdoor Performance Space as well as feeding into local policy/strategies in the county. That this motion be moved to the CPG for further discussion and exploration.”
Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, in a report circulated, advised that the Council is currently reviewing its role and involvement in supporting and developing the Festival & Events Sector in the county, including consideration to the establishment of a Council led Festival & Events Steering Committee for the purpose of assisting with the development of a strategic plan and clear policy on matters relating to this area. Consideration can also be given to such a Committee having an oversight role in the operation of the two main performance venues, Queen Maeve Square and Cleveragh Regional Park which are nearing completion.
Councillor Walsh requested that, following a discussion at today’s CPG meeting on this matter, the timeline for the setting up of a Council led Festival & Events committee would be re-considered.
Councillor Taylor queried the function of the committee in relation to decision making and improving the night-time economy in Sligo town.
Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, in response, advised that before a committee is established, terms of reference must be put in place in relation to management of the Queen Maeve Square. The Council will have a large role to play in the Committee as, together with Fáilte Ireland, the Council are the main funders of this space. As part of the Council’s funding agreement with Fáilte Ireland, the committee will be responsible for the management of the Square as an entertainment space. Any requests to use the Square will be considered by the committee and a fee will apply for such usage. It is also hoped that the private sector can take the lead in some events taking place in this venue.
The €100,000 allocation, as discussed at today’s CPG meeting, is a once off measure, Mr. Lydon continued, and is specifically for the launch of the Queen Maeve Square and the Cleveragh auditorium, on the May Bank Holiday weekend in 2024. Following the launch, in June 2024, the newly formed committee will be responsible for decisions on the use of the Square as an entertainment space.
22. POLICY FOR REPLYING TO MEMBERS QUESTIONS/REPRESENTATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the Chief Executive of Sligo County Council provide members with details of the policy or strategy for replying to questions or representations from elected members sent to staff. Details should include if replies are to be sent to
- The elected member who asked the question only
- All members for the Municipal District
- Every member of the Council
If no policy is in place can a policy be agreed with either the procedures committee or the Corporate Policy Group to ensure that the member who asks the question or makes the representation is as a very minimum acknowledged in the reply and receive the reply a fair and reasonable time in advance of colleagues so that the reply can be provided to the people on whose behalf the representation was made.”
A report circulated informed the Members that there is no such formal policy or Strategy in place. If the members wish such a policy to be developed, it is suggested that the matter be referred to the Procedures Committee in the first instance for consideration.
Following a discussion, the Members agreed that replies to Members’ questions should, in the first instance at least, only be sent to the Elected Member who tabled the question. Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney confirmed that the matter will be referred to the Procedures Committee for consideration.
23. UPDATE ON WORKS CARRIED OUT UNDER THE COMMUNITY RECOGNITION FUND:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council provide details of what works have been carried out under the €1,424,596 Community Recognition fund and give an update on each of the 27 Projects detailing by project how much money has been spent to date, when works will be completed and who is carrying out the works. (Sligo County Council or the name of the Organisation Carrying out the work).”
In a report circulated in advance of the meeting, Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, provided details of the projects as requested in Councillor Gilroy’s motion, including the cost and status of the projects. The report concluded that all projects/works identified for funding under the Community Recognition Fund must be completed by 18th October 2024.
Councillot Gilroy thanked the Director of Services for the detailed report and requested the projects for completion in Q2 2024 in relation to verge widening and provision of public lighting columns on the road between Cregg House and the Rosses Point road be expedited due to the numbers of people walking on this road, particularly during the dark winter months.
Councillor Walsh requested that another round of funding be made available under the Community Recognition Fund.
Councillor Fox requested that the works to be carried out on the Calry road be prioritised as soon as possible as a lot of people use this stretch of road.
Ms. Clarke advised that in relation to the road safety and lighting proposals, she will speak to the Roads Department with a view to establishing if these matters can be expedited.
24. UPDATE ON DEFECTIVE BLOCK SCHEME FROM MINISTER:
With the consent of the Cathaoirleach, this item, as listed by Cllr. Clarke, was deferred until the December Ordinary meeting.
25. POLICY REGARDING FLOODING AND CLEANING OF RIVERS IN THE COUNTY:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor M. Clarke
AND AGREED
“Ask the Director of Services to outline Council policy regarding flooding and cleaning of rivers in the county.”
Members were advised in a report that works to rivers, including cleaning of rivers, must be carried out in accordance with applicable environmental legislation, along with consultation with relevant stakeholders including the OPW and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). Any works to rivers are considered on a case-by-case basis, as funding allows.
Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, in response to comments made, agreed that there is a need for a policy to be put in place in relation to rivers. A policy can be formulated, Mr. Lydon added, but private landowners will continue to be responsible for their own land, as is the case with the tree that has fallen into the Owenmore River, as advised by Councillor Healy at today’s meeting.
It was agreed that following today’s discussion, this matter will be referred to the relevant SPC Group as a Headed Item, for discussion on the formulation of a policy/management plan for all rivers in the county.
26. REPORT ON APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS FOR HOUSING AID FOR THE ELDERLY, MOBILITY, AND DISABILITY GRANTS 2023:
Proposed by Councillor J. Queenan
Seconded by Councillor P. Taylor
AND AGREED
“Ask the Director of Services for housing to give an update regarding the number of applications received, granted and paid out under Housing Aid for the Elderly, Mobility and Disability Grants 2023.”
A report circulated to the Members in advance of the meeting provided details as requested in the motion.
The Members paid tribute to the Housing staff for their work and for their assistance to the Members in relation to housing grants.
In response to a query from Councillor Taylor, Acting Director of Services, Mr. Murphy advised that there has been an incremental increase in the number of grant applications received.
27. CALL FOR 2024 ALLOCATION FOR PROGRESSION OF N17 KNOCK TO COLLOONEY PROJECT:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council unanimously calls for the required allocation of €2.5million in 2024, to allow our in-house Design Team at Sligo Regional Design Office continue their progress of the N17, Knock to Collooney project from Phase 2 Option Selection towards Phase 4 Planning.
That this motion be sent to The Taoiseach, The Tánaiste, The Minister for Transport, Minister of State at the Department of Transport and at the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications for reply and copied for the attention of the Mayo County Council CE and Members.”
It was confirmed that the correspondence to issue on this motion would be issued as soon as possible, in advance of the national budget announcement in the coming weeks.
28. PILOT SCHEME FOR PROVISION OF SALT BINS TO COMMUNITY GROUP IN AREAS NOT COVERED BY LA ROADS WINTER MAINTENANCE ROUTE SCHEDULE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“I call on Sligo County Council to pilot a scheme of providing salt bins to community groups in areas not covered by this local authority roads winter Maintenance route schedule.
In past winters during spells of snow and ice many residents found themselves stuck in their homes as the footpaths and roads around their areas were not on the salting routes.
Many local residents were contacting Cllrs stating their willingness to spread salt paths and estate exits to allow people to get to work if bunkers were left full during the cold spell.
Every winter this issue comes up and Cllrs are asking for extra roads and estate exits to be gritted but due to lack of funding and resources it is not possible. “
A report previously circulated stated that the priority roads & footpaths in towns and villages are treated by Council roads staff during spells of snow and ice. It is not feasible, the report added, to provide salt bins to community groups in areas not covered by the Council’s Winter Maintenance Schedule.
30. PROVISION OF AGE FRIENDLY SIGNAGE THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Fox
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council make the necessary arrangements for the provision of Age Friendly Signage that is suitable for older people throughout the County.”
Members were informed that the Age Friendly Alliance/Age Friendly team have no capital funding available for the provision of Age Friendly Signage throughout the county. However, the matter will be kept under review should any funding opportunity arise to provide such worthwhile signage in the future.
31. CHANGE OF COURSE IN APPROACH TO ISRAELI ATTACKS IN GAZA:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To implore the Taoiseach to call for the EU and our international partners to change course in its approach to the brutal Israeli attacks in Gaza.”
The following amendment to this motion was:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
“To implore the Taoiseach to call for the EU and our international partners to change course in its approach to the brutal Israeli attacks in Gaza and to further call on the Taoiseach to expel the Israeli Ambassador and demand that Israel immediately ends the barbaric military assault on Gaza and that it removes all obstacles to the supply of humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza.”
Following a discussion on the above amendment, a vote was called by the Cathaoirleach.
The result of the vote was as follows:
FOR: Councillors Bree, Gibbons, Healy, O’Boyle (4)
AGAINST: Councillors Baker, Clarke, Connolly, Fox, Gilroy, Mullaney, Mulvey, O’Grady, Queenan, Taylor, Walsh (11)
ABSENT: Councillors Casserly, MacSharry, Maguire (3)
The Cathaoirleach declared the amended motion lost.
32. MAKE PERMANENT SHORT-TERM MEASURES ANNOUNCED IN BUDGET TO ADDRESS CHILDREN’S NEEDS:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That this local authority calls on this government to make permanent the short-term measures announced to address children's needs in the recent budget.”
33. CALL ON GOVERNMENT TO REVISIT BUDGETARY PROVISIONS FOR DISABILITY SERVICES:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That this local authority Call on the government to revisit budgetary provisions for disability services.”
34. FURTHER MEASURES TO ALERT MOTORISTS TO DANGER OF DEER CROSSING ROADS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“I call on Sligo County Council to alert motorists to the danger of deer causing fatal accidents by bolting across roads, and urge motorists to be cautious, especially on rural roads in Sligo. While I welcome the warning signs on some roads throughout the County, many motorists have confirmed they are still encountering near misses, particularly at night, therefore, I ask if there are any further measures that can be put in place.”
A report advised that Deer Crossing warning signs were erected on some roads this year, and it is planned to erect further warning signs at additional locations before the end of the year.
Following a discussion, the Members agreed to write to the Minister for Agriculture.
Councillor Casserly joined the meeting at this point.
35. POLICY TO USE ARTICLE 20 / CHANGE IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT POLICIES TO MAKE FULL USE OF ARTICLE 20 OF THE PROCUREMENT DIRECTIVE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Noting that Article 20 of the EU Public Procurement Directive allows public procurers to reserve contracts to encourage the employment of disabled persons; and further noting that Scotland has an explicit policy that every public body should have at least one contract with a “supported business” (a business where the workforce is made up of at least 30% people with disabilities/disadvantages); this Council resolves to commence the process of developing a policy to use Article 20 and further we request the Government to change Public Procurement policies so that Ireland makes full use of Article 20 of the Procurement Directive.”
Members were informed that Sligo County Council will review Article 20 of the EU Procurement Directive and aim to incorporate it within future procurement policies.
36. UPDATE REPORT ON COUNCIL’S ACTIVE TRAVEL PROGRAMME:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with an up to date report on the Council’s Active Travel programme, the report to include (A) the current number of staff on the Active Travel Team; (B) progress on the development of the Local Transportation Plan for Sligo City and Environs; (C) progress on the Cycle Strategy for Sligo City and County; (D) details on the number of schools participating in the ‘Safe Route to Schools Programme’.”
Director of Services, Ms. Clarke, in a report previously circulated, updated the Members on the Council’s Active Travel programme, detailing the areas covered in the motion.
37. REGULATIONS TO ALLOW COUNCIL TO IMPOUND VEHICLES PARKED ILLEGALLY IN DISABLED PARKING SPACES:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To ask when the necessary regulations/bye laws will be introduced to allow the Council to impound vehicles which are parked illegally in disabled parking spaces.”
A report advised that the Sligo County Council Draft Parking Places Bye-Laws 2024 and Draft Car Park Bye-Laws 2024 are currently in the public consultation phase. These draft Bye-Laws allow for the removal of illegally parked vehicles in a Disabled Parking Bay, at the expense of the owner. It is anticipated that these Parking Bye-Laws will be adopted and come into force in Q1 2024.
38. RETURN OF PLENARY MEETINGS TO IN-PERSON MEETINGS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Ordinary meetings of Sligo County Council and Municipal District meetings of each Municipal District return to full in person meetings where members can contribute or be recorded as being in attendance by in person attendance only.
Exceptions to be facilitated in exceptional circumstances with the agreement of the Cathaoirleach in cases where:
- Members are unavoidably absent due to illness or travel to a maximum of two meetings in any year between Annual General Meetings.
- A national emergency such as an epidemic or pandemic.
- Any exceptional circumstances agreed by the Corporate Policy Group.”
Acting Director of Services, Mr. Moran, in a report, advised the Members that this is a matter for the elected members. If such a proposal is to be considered, it is suggested that the matter should be referred to the Corporate Policy Group.
The report added that a working group was established by the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage to examine and implement the non-pay related recommendations of the Moorhead Review, and the report included details of these recommendations. The Department recognises the enormous potential for the use of technology to strengthen local democracy, in particular to increase accessibility and transparency of local government in action. In this regard, and in advance of the 2024 local elections, the Department is to run a pilot scheme to support a number of local authorities in order to facilitate the running of hybrid meetings in their main council chamber/s.
Following a discussion on the motion, it was agreed that the matter will be brought to the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) for further discussion.
17. INFORMATION CAMPAIGN ON DANGERS OF SYNTHETIC OPIOIDS IN CIRCULATION:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the HSE to start a nationwide information campaign on the significant dangers of synthetic opioids that are circulating in the country, which have resulted in several deaths of drug users in recent years.”
18. PROVISION OF RAPID EV CHARGING STATIONS THROUGHOUT CO SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to ask the ESB and other EV charging station providers to install rapid EV charging stations throughout the town and county of Sligo.”
A report circulated to the Members advised that Sligo County Council are partnering with Donegal, Mayo, Galway and Clare County Councils to develop a Regional Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Strategy, with funding available from the ZEVI (Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland) Office in the Department of Transport. This Strategy will determine the numbers, locations and types of EV chargers that are required in each county to meet the needs of EV users. This is the first step in planning for the roll-out of EV infrastructure in County Sligo. Liaising with EV charging infrastructure providers regarding the installation of EV chargers will form part of the Strategy implementation.
29. PROVISION OF BUS SHELTERS AT DESIGNATED LOCATIONS THROUGH CO SLIGO:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Mulvey
AND AGREED
“For Sligo County Council to request the NTA to provide new bus shelters at designated locations throughout county Sligo in consultation with members, Local Link staff and area engineers. I am asking for this to be expedited as quickly as possible.”
39. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Votes of Sympathy were recorded.
Councillor Baker wished to propose a vote of sympathy to the Connolly family, to Mícheál, Padraig, Bridie and John Joe and extended family and many friends, on the recent passing of Anthony Connolly. Councillor Baker described Anthony as a great character who was known far and wide, a quality human being and an avid sports lover who will never be forgotten. Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney, seconding the vote of sympathy to the Connolly family, described Anthony as a unique character who breached the generation gaps and was one of nature’s true gentlemen. The Members also wished to be associated with this vote of sympathy.
Councillor O’Grady wished to propose a vote of sympathy to Maisie McNabola and to the McNabola family on the recent passing of John McNabola, former Town Clerk with Sligo Borough Council. Councillor O’Grady remembered Mr. McNabola as a true gentleman and a great friend to staff and Members alike during his many years of service to the Council. Chief Executive, Mr. Lydon, on behalf of the staff of Sligo County Council, wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy on the passing of Mr. McNabola. The Members also wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy to the McNabola family.
Councillor Fox wished to offer his sympathies to the Keaveney family, to Geraldine, Karen, Jason and Kenneth on the recent passing of John Keaveney, a great personality, who was deeply involved in his local community, and the North Sligo area.
Councillor Casserly wished to extend her sympathies to the Glancy family and to the friends and work colleagues of P.J. Glancy on his recent sudden passing. P.J. was a tutor in Ballinode College and was very well known in traditional Irish music circles.
40. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mullaney wished to propose a vote of congratulations to Councillor Martin Baker and his hardworking team on the Riverstown Tidy Towns Committee, on winning the title of Sligo’s tidiest town for 2023.
Proposed by Councillor D. Mulvey
Seconded by Councillor G. Mullaney
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Eamon Tighe, Station Road, Ballymote on winning an Irish Boxing Heavyweight National Championship title.”
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Laura McGuinn, Clogherevagh, Sligo who is travelling to Brazil as part of the Women’s Deaf Irish Football team to take part in the Deaf World Cup, which is a major achievement.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Coolera/Strandhill Senior Club on winning the Senior County Final 2023.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to ATU Sligo, and St. Angela’s College on the very successful amalgamation of both Colleges today to become the third largest University in the country.”
41. CONFERENCES / TRAINING:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To approve the Conferences/Training events list as circulated.”
42. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES:
Proposed by Councillor P. Taylor
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
To note the items under this heading.
43. CORRESPONDENCE:
The Members agreed to note the items of correspondence received.
44. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
No matter was raised under this heading.
45. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
In acknowledging a great day for Sligo today on the incorporation of St. Angela’s College into the ATU, Sligo, Councillor O’Grady requested that a letter of thanks issue to Sr. Marianne O’Connor and the Ursuline Sisters in Sligo from this Council for gifting the 80 acres of land that St. Angela’s College stands on, to the people.
Councillor Gilroy advised that Mr. Tom Kilfeather, Acting Director of Services with Sligo County Council, who is retiring from his position with the Council, will attend the Chamber at the end of the December plenary meeting scheduled for 4th December next, and will be an opportunity for the Members to pay tribute to Mr. Kilfeather on his departure.
Councillor Walsh wished to send good wishes to Sligo Tidy Towns and Ballygawley Village committees at the Pride of Place Awards taking place in Armagh on this Friday night, 10th November.
END OF MEETING:
The business of the Meeting concluded at 5.20 p.m.
Meeting Date 06/11/2023