Agenda and minutes

Proposed by Councillor Caillian Ellis, Seconded by Councillor Gerry Dolan and UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED:

“That the Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Ballinamore Municipal District meeting held on Monday, 25^th July 2022 be adopted.”

A copy of the revised Standing Orders were issued to the members in advance of today’s meeting.

Ms. Sinead Flynn informed the members that because the meetings for Ballinamore Municipal District were now taking place in the Island Theatre, Ballinamore instead the of the Library Headquarters, Ballinamore, this change needs to be reflected in the Standing Orders pertaining to the Ballinamore Municipal District.

Proposed by Councillor Ita Flynn, Seconded by Councillor Gerry Dolan and UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED:

“That the Revised Standing Orders for Ballinamore Municipal District be adopted.”

A copy of the Part 8 proposal was circulated to all members in advance of today’s meeting.

Leitrim County Council is proposing to construct a footpath with public lighting on the R202 traversing the townlands of Commons and Glebe (Leitrim By.) in Fenagh.

Councillor Ellis said that while he welcomed the footpath and public lighting, he had serious concerns regarding the narrowing of the junction.  He said that he did not agree with it as it meant that a HGV has no choice but to go over the white line forcing traffic onto the carriageway.  He highlighted the issue of when he is driving a bus on this route and meets a HGV.  It is very hard for the two vehicles to pass in a safe manner.  He believes it is not wise to narrow the junction.  He said that an independent survey should be carried out.

Mr Dwyer responded that one of the conditions contained in the Part 8 states that “A Road Safety Audit shall be carried out by an Approved Road Safety Auditor to highlight and address any road safety issues.  The recommendations of the Road Safety Audit shall be implemented in full.”

Mr O’Boyle informed the meeting that the footpath and junction works were part of the NTA Active Travel.  Certain standards of work must be met for the project to be funded.   He said that the junction will have to be looked at to incorporate HGVs.  He said that he fully understood the concerns raised and said that he will look again at the design of this junction.

Councillor Barry supported Councillor Ellis in his concerns.  He said that vehicles are already slowing down in the village in order to take the junction safely.  He said that if the junction was tightened it would put severe pressure on trucks.  He suggested the possibility of widening the footpath without tightening the junction.

Councillor O’Rourke enquired as to the width of the footpath and how much road space would be lost with the proposal.

Mr O’Boyle stated that the width of the footpath was 2 metres however in circumstances whether there was a light pole it would be 1.6 metres.  He advised the members that any proposed change in prioritising the junction would have to be referred back to the NTA and possibly would be the subject of a separate Part 8.

He said that he will have to have look at this junction.  He advised the meeting that the works can’t deviate too far from the original works proposed in Part 8 because the funding is provided directly from the NTA for specific works.  The reason for these works is to safely tighten up this junction to make it safe for pedestrians to use and to reduce the speed of traffic.

Councillor Ellis enquired as to the parking at the school and whether there will be an area for drop offs.

Mr O’Boyle explained that there will be a reduction of 2 car parking spaces  ...  view the full minutes text for item BMD.113.21

Councillor Gerry Dolan enquired if any reply had been received regarding his motion on the Croi Conaithe Fund, which he raised at the July meeting.  Ms Flynn informed the meeting that a general acknowledgement had been received by email on 12^th September 2022 from the office of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage but no reply has been received on this matter.

Regarding this matter Councillor McGloin informed the meeting that he was at a recent meeting of the North West Regional Assembly a few months back with Minister Darragh O’Brien.  He said that he had discussions with the Minister regarding the proposals raised by the Ballinamore Municipal District Members and he said that the Minister was personally in favour of the suggestions.  He could see the merits of the proposals for fist time buyers and young people.   It would need to go back to his staff in the Department to be reviewed. 

I request that Ballinamore Municipal District call on the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue, to allow the rollover of Glas 3 contracts for 2023 which would be a 2-year extension similar to what was offered to Glas 1 and 2 Participants. Many farmers will lose out otherwise as it is not possible for advisors to prepare Acres plans for all those who will be looking to join, if a Glas 3 rollover is not available.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Brendan Barry;

"I request that Ballinamore Municipal District call on the Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue to allow the rollover of Glas 3 Contracts for 2023 which would be a 2 year extension, the same as was offered to Glas 1 and 2 participants.  Many farmers will lose out otherwise, as it is not possible for Advisors to prepare Acres plans for all those who will be looking to join if a Glas 3 rollover is not available."

Councillor Barry informed the meeting that all contracts are ending this year.  Glas 1 and Glas 2 had a two year roll over extension which ends this year.  Glas 3 only received a 1 year rollover also ending this year.

He said that the closing date for this scheme is 15^th November 2022, which is only 8 weeks away.  He informed the members that there were not enough of advisors to assist in the preparation of the required plans.  It can take an advisor 12 hours to prepare a plan.

Councillor O’Rourke supported the motion.  He said that the timescale is unrealistic.  There would be a number of people out of pocket for 2023 if they don’t have an environmental scheme.  This could result in people losing interest and there would be a lot of negativity.

Councillor Dolan seconded and supported this motion commenting that it was an important and timely motion.

Councillor Ellis commented that the conditions attached to the scheme are too restrictive for example you cannot mow your land until 1^st July.

Councillor McGloin supported the motion and stated that members were all in agreement to send a letter to the Minister for Agriculture seeking an extension to this scheme.

I request that repair works be carried out on the bridge beside Poll an Easa Waterfall in Aughnasheelin.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Brendan Barry;

"I request that repair works be carried out on the bridge beside Poll an Easa Waterfall in Aughnasheelin."

Report by Roads

"We will inspect & assess the bridge and will consider it as part of the 2023 bridge rehabilitation program."

Councillor Barry welcomed the reply and commented that the bridge had been hit on several occasions.

Mr O’Boyle informed the meeting that the council have an active Bridge Rehabilitation Works Programme and once assessed this bridge can be considered for inclusion on the list.  He said that these works go out to contract as they are specialised works when it comes to repairing bridges to make them structurally sound.

I ask that Ballinamore Municipal District carry out the necessary repairs to Road No: 55241 leading from Corrawallen past St. Columba’s Church of Ireland towards the town land of Cloonboygher.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Paddy O'Rourke;

"I ask that Ballinamore Municipal District carry out the necessary repairs to Road No: 55241 leading from Corrawallen past St. Columba’s Church of Ireland towards the town land of Cloonboygher."

Report by Roads

"We will dispatch the maintenance crew to this local road once our LIS and CIS programme is completed."

Councillor O’Rourke noted the reply.  He informed the members that there were a few houses on this road but that the area in questions was past the church toward a series of “S” bends.  He commented that he didn’t know why this road was not included in the 3 years roads programme.

Mr O’Boyle responded that the 3 year roads programme is a matter for the elected members to approve.

Mr O’Boyle informed the meeting that there is a CIS waiting list for next year and he does not know what the budget for next year will be until April.

Councillor McGloin enquired if the CIS was oversubscribed.

Mr O’Boyle said that the list comprised of expressions of interest only, there is no guarantee that they will pay the 10% required.

Councillor McGloin commented that this road merits a Community Involvement Scheme.

I ask that Ballinamore Municipal District make safe a depression in Road R204-9 in the townland of Gortahoose on the northbound carriageway of the road adjacent to the vacant house along the roadside. The depression poses a safety risk to all motorists using this road.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Paddy O'Rourke;

"I ask that Ballinamore Municipal District make safe a depression in Road R204-9 in the townland of Gortahoose on the northbound carriageway of the road adjacent to the vacant house along the roadside. The depression poses a safety risk to all motorists using this road."

Report by Roads

"The District Office will investigate this depression as it may be as a result of HGV damage to culvert. We will dispatch maintenance crew to this location."

Councillor O’Rourke informed the meeting that he was happy to report that some action has been taken.  Some tarmac has been applied at this location and while it makes it look a little better, he feels a more fundamental job needs to be done. 

Mr O’Boyle said the R204 is the least trafficked regional road in the county.  Ideally a Significant Improvement Grant is needed to widen this very narrow section of road, however his department haven’t got SIG funding in a long time.  In the short term he will look at alternative measures.

Can I ask for an update on works for footpath to Outeragh Graveyard in Ballinamore.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Ita Reynolds Flynn;

"Can I ask for an update on works for footpath to Oughteragh Graveyard in Ballinamore."

Report by Roads

"The Active Travel Scheme is commencing in October which will complete footpath to graveyard. A pedestrian crossing will also be constructed by the District Office to allow safe crossing of the Oughteragh Road from existing footpath to the proposed footpath."

Councillor Reynolds-Flynn said she was delighted with the reply.

Councillor Ellis and Councillor Dolan also welcomed this reply.

Is there any more funding available for Christmas lights? With the increase in energy costs, it is a concern for towns and villages.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Ita Reynolds Flynn;

"Is there any more funding available for Christmas lights? With the increase in energy costs, it is a concern for towns and villages."

Report by Director of Services for Economic Development, Planning, Environment and Transportation.

"In December 2021, a budget of €30,000 was secured by Leitrim County Council, through the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage, towards Christmas lighting costs and the promotion of towns within the County in the lead up to the Christmas and New Year period. The funding was allocated for a maximum of five towns within the County. Leitrim County Council subsequently selected Carrick on Shannon, Manorhamilton, Drumshanbo , Ballinamore and Mohill as the five successful towns and funding was awarded accordingly.  This funding allocation was in respect of 2021 only. The Council is not aware of any similar funding being made available in 2022 given the once off nature of the funding in 2021. Separately, some towns have carried out fund raising to allow the erection, running and removal of Christmas lights."

Councillor Reynolds-Flynn noted the reply.  She enquired was there any possibility of securing funding for this year.

Mr Dwyer informed the meeting that the payment made last year was a once off payment.  He did not think that there would be a payment this year. 

Councillor McGloin raised the issue of public buildings conserving energy by switching off lights early.    He said that the grant was a huge help to the commercial sector last year and in Drumshanbo the committee were able to purchase new lights.

Councillor O’Rourke said that the lights add a lot to an area.  He was when the council were likely to know if there was any funding available.

Mr Dwyer responded that it was late last year when the announcement was made.  He said that if the Councillors wished he would raise this matter.

Councillor Ellis said that the lights create a lovely atmosphere in towns and villages.

Councillor Barry supported the motion and comments made by fellow councillors.  He made the point that the money allocated last year allowed a lot of committees to upgrade their lights to more energy efficient lights.

Councillor Dolan also supported the motion.

Councillor McGloin concluded that the main issue for committees this year would be the fear of power cuts however he agreed with Councillor Barry that this grant allowed committees to purchase energy efficient lighting.

I call on Ballinamore Municipal District to clean out rocks and blocks that were deposited in the river in Fenagh, Co. Leitrim after a collision at the bridge.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Caillian Ellis;

"I call on Ballinamore Municipal District to clean out rocks and blocks that were deposited in the river in Fenagh, Co. Leitrim after a collision at the bridge."

Report by Roads

"The District Office will remove the damaged bridge parapets from the Fenagh river once our LIS and CIS programme is complete"

Councillor Ellis welcomed the reply.

I ask Ballinamore Municipal District for an update on when the proposed works at Greagh Crosswords (L1511/L1494) will commence.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Caillian Ellis;

"I ask Ballinamore Municipal District for an update on when the proposed works at Greagh Crosswords (L1511/L1494) will commence."

Report by Roads

"The Ballinamore District Office has completed the L-1511 this year and have allocated a budget for the L-1494 section under next year’s programme of works under the 3 year roads plan."

Councillor Ellis said that he was disappointed with this reply.  It was his understanding that the works would be completed this year.

Mr O’Boyle responded that the first leg would be completed this year and the second leg next year as per the 3 Year Road Works Programme.

I call on Ballinamore Municipal District to have the L1328 road from Drumdartin to Dernahincey Beg Road, Aughnasheelin, resurfaced.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Gerry Dolan;

"I call on the Ballinamore Municipal District to have the L1328 road from Drumdartin to Dernahincey Beg Road, Aughnasheelin, resurfaced."

Report by Roads

"The L-1328 at Drumdartin is not on our RIG/RMG programme of works. We can consider this section of public road for surface dressing scheme in 2023."

Councillor Dolan stated that this road is in very bad condition.  The amount of traffic on it is unbelievable.  He believes it would be ideal for a Community Involvement Scheme.

Mr O’Boyle responded that this road is not on the three year Road Works Programme.  He can carry out maintenance on this road.

He enquired from Councillor Dolan if residents would be interested in a Community Involvement Scheme.

Councillor Dolan said he would enquire this week from the residents concerned. 

Mr O’Boyle advised that if the residents were interested Councillor Dolan should send a letter to him.

Councillor Dolan enquired what other options were available if the residents were not  in favour of a Community Involvement Scheme.

Mr O’Boyle informed him that it is was structurally safe, surface dressing could be carried out.  If the structure was unsafe then it could be looked at for consideration on the next 3 Year Road Works Programme.

I call on Ballinamore Municipal District to carry out a safety assessment of Aughaslane Bridge on the Drumcong to Ballinamore Road as it may require upgrading.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Gerry Dolan;

"I call on the Ballinamore Municipal District to carry out a safety assessment of Aughaslane Bridge on the Drumcong to Ballinamore road, as I fear it is in need of upgrading."

Report by Roads

"The Aughaslane Bridge is placed on priority for bridge rehabilitation works this year. We are waiting for specialist contractors to carry out repair works to the downstream pier."

Councillor Dolan noted the reply and said that there was a fear that the bridge would go completely.

Mr O’Boyle shared his concerns.

Councillor McGloin supported this motion.

I urgently request that the footpath from the Dowra Road to the estate ‘Radharc and Bhaile’ which has a kerb in installed would be completed as a matter of urgency. More than 14 families use this route to walk into town and it is in a very dangerous condition.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Enda McGloin;

"I urgently request that the footpath from the Dowra Road to the estate ‘Radharc and Bhaile’ which has a kerb in installed would be completed as a matter of urgency. More than 14 families use this route to walk into town and it is in a very dangerous condition."

Report by Roads – General

"The proposed footpath along the regional road to the Radharc na Bhaile is scheduled on our Active Travel schemes for 2023. The NTA have agreed in principle to these works and we are awaiting Part 8 Planning Permission. Once this is achieved, we can commence works in 2023."

Councillor McGloin noted the reply.  He informed the meeting that there was kerbing installed but no other works carried out.  He said that there are a number of families with small children in this estate and that Leitrim County Council had purchased 10 homes in it.  There was a verge before the installation of the kerbing which allowed pedestrians to keep in from traffic.  He said that he has serious concerns regarding road safety.  He enquired if it would be possible to have some funding advanced to get this job done.  This is the main Drumshanbo to Dowra road and it needs immediate attention.

Councillor Dolan seconded and supported the motion.  He lives along this road and he said that the amount of traffic on it is unbelievable.   Before the kerbing was installed pedestrians were able to walk along the grass margin but now they have nowhere.

Councillor Barry also supported the motion.  He said that he hoped the works would be carried out sooner rather than later. 

Councillor McGloin enquired from Mr. O’Boyle when he expected the Part 8 to be prepared.

Mr O’Boyle responded that he couldn’t see any reason for Active Travel not to be working on it at present with the hope of having it put forward for consideration for next year.

Councillor McGloin asked could it be brought to the October or November meeting of Ballinamore Municipal District.

Mr O’Boyle said he would go back to them.  He explained that the kerbing went in as part of a road widening job, however, the footpath cannot go in without Planning Permission (Part 8).  He said he understood the requirement to hurry up the Part 8 process, but even with Part 8 approval works cannot be carried out until funding is received and this will probably become available in April/May of next year.

Councillor McGloin enquired if it would be possible to erect temporary warning signs for motorist.

Mr O’Boyle said that this road was within a speed limit zone.  He suggested that a temporary arrangement could be made with the landowners regarding a piece of land behind the food hub.  This could be looked at as an option for an alternative safe link road until the Part 8 is completed.

Councillor McGloin stated that this land was owned by the  ...  view the full minutes text for item BMD.125.21

I call on Ballinamore Municipal District to write to Vodafone Ireland regarding the significant loss of signal strength for customers in the Newtowngore area. It is important than in a modern era we have an explanation as to why a good mobile phone service would just diminish overnight.

To consider the following Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Enda McGloin;

"I call on Ballinamore Municipal District to write to Vodafone Ireland regarding the significant loss of signal strength for customers in the Newtowngore area. It is important than in a modern era we have an explanation as to why a good mobile phone service would just diminish overnight!"

Councillor McGowan said that he had been approached by several residents in this area.  He himself has written to Vodafone Ireland on two separate occasions but has not received a reply to date.  He recalled a few years ago Vodafone Ireland met a full meeting of Leitrim County Council when there was a county wide issue with coverage.  He commented that from a safety point of view he would urge Vodafone Ireland to investigate this matter.

Ms. Flynn said she would write to Vodafone Ireland.

Councillor Brendan Barry seconded this proposal.

1. Date of Next Meeting

Ms. Flynn informed the members that the date for the next meeting of Ballinamore Municipal District was scheduled for Monday 24^th October 2022 at 10.30 am.  She stated that the General Municipal Allocation will be on the Agenda for this meeting and the Chief Executive will attend the meeting.

2. Date of Proposed Meetings for October, November and December 2022

Ms. Flynn circulated a list of dates for the remaining meetings for 2022.

·         Monday 24^th October 2022 -The Island Theatre Ballinamore

·         Monday 28^th November 2022 – The Island Theatre, Ballinamore

·         Tuesday 13th December 2022 – Drumshanbo (venue to be confirmed).