Agenda and minutes

Minutes of meeting held on 13th December 2021,

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Frank Dolan 

SECONDED by Cllr Mary Bohan

It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of meeting of 13th December 2021.

Members noted correspondence from HSE in relation to the provision of services at the Health Centres in Glenfarne and Kiltyclogher.

The correspondence outlined that the Health Centres would not be attended by a GP currently as due to Covid-19, the centres’ layouts do not lend themselves to providing a safe place for both patients and staff.

The correspondence also detailed that the broadband connections at both sites are unstable, and that Hygiene/Infection Control upgrades are required at the Kiltyclogher Health Centre.

Cllr Sean McDermott noted the correspondence and expressed his desire to see the Health Centres reopened shortly.

Ms. Mary Quinn, Director of Services, informed members that an acknowledgement email had been received from the Department of Health in relation to this matter, and that it had been referred to the HSE for response.

Cllr Justin Warnock expressed his concerns that the Health Centres in Glenfarne and Kiltyclogher might not reopen, and that the situation must be monitored. Cllr Mary Bohan agreed with this sentiment, and that a respective timeline in relation to the reopening should be sought from the HSE. Cllr Gurn stated that he would bring the matter up at the next HSE Forum.

Cllr Felim Gurn informed members that the HSE have confirmed funding for aftercare services for a number of people with intellectual disabilities whose housing need will be met under a voluntary housing project to be delivered by Newgrove Housing Association. All members welcomed the announcement.

I ask the Area Office to review sections on the Manorhamilton side of the R280 at Gortinar, Hope and Benson. The sign coming into the bad bend ahead is too late for drivers using the road. There is also too much of a drop down from the road when accidents happen, a crash barrier is needed to warn drivers of the bad bend ahead and to prevent fatalities. A number of accidents happened over a 3-week period including a young driver, an ESB worker and a postal worker. Urgent preventative work is needed.

"I ask the Area Office to review sections on the Manorhamilton side of the R280 at Gortinar, Hope and Benson. The sign coming into the bad bend ahead is too late for drivers using the road. There is also too much of a drop down from the road when accidents happen, a crash barrier is needed to warn drivers of the bad bend ahead and to prevent fatalities. A number of accidents happened over a 3-week period including a young driver, an ESB worker and a postal worker. Urgent preventative work is needed."

Report by Roads - General

"The bend in question, is on the R280 Gortinar, is on an 80kph section of the road. There have been some accidents recently. Signage will be increased to see if this will help to reduce speed at this location.

The Council shall also pipe a section of the roadside drain. There is a very narrow road margin along the drain. This will allow us to increase the margin and form an earth mound off the road edge."

Cllr Felim Gurn outlined the issue with the bend, and the recent accidents that have taken place at the location. Cllr Gurn welcomed that the issue would be tackled.

Cllr Justin Warnock and Cllr Frank Dolan supported the motion.

January sees a lot of people taking up walking in our towns and villages and it is important to have as much street lighting as possible for walkers, many of whom during the day are at work and go out at night for a walk and in many cases are using the demonstration stretch of SLNCR. With that in mind when funding becomes available for the entire SLNCR project I ask that lighting be put in place from the town boundary on Ramooney to the bridge at the Carrick Road. This is very important for the health and wellbeing of all users.

"January sees a lot of people taking up walking in our towns and villages and it is important to have as much street lighting as possible for walkers, many of whom during the day are at work and go out at night for a walk and in many cases are using the demonstration stretch of SLNCR. With that in mind when funding becomes available for the entire SLNCR project I ask that lighting be put in place from the town boundary on Ramooney to the bridge at the Carrick Road. This is very important for the health and wellbeing of all users."

Report by Roads - General

"Currently the public lighting extends as far as the 50kph speed limit R280 Carrick Road. As part of the footpath works carried out last year, the existing public lighting will be upgraded as part of the under grounding of overhead power lines. It would not be uncommon from a road safety aspect to extent the public lighting if funding was available to the start of the 60kph speed limit zone. This would be approx. 300m, it would take another 250m to go as far as the bridge, but this would not serve the road. There are several existing walking routes within the town that are served by public lighting and footpaths that walkers can use over the winter months that are safe."

Cllr Felim Gurn stated that extra lighting on the demonstration stretch would make it safer. Cllr Sean McDermott supported the motion.

I ask what is the Local Authority's responsibility with regard to surface water from public roads flowing on to private lands or in and around private dwellings.

"I ask what is the Local Authority's responsibility with regard to surface water from public roads flowing on to private lands or in and around private dwellings."

Report by Roads - General

"Under the Roads Act 1993, Section 76, A road authority may—

a)      construct and maintain drains in, on, under, through or to any land for the purpose of draining water from, or preventing water flowing onto, a public road,

b)      use any land for the temporary storage or the preparation of any gravel, stone, sand, earth or other material required for the construction or maintenance of a public road.

In general, surface water from public roads is directed to the local drainage system. Due to changing weather pattens, some of the existing drains must be increased in size or extra gullies or openings constructed. The drainage systems require constant maintenance and upgrading. This is normally carried out with the roads programme."

Cllr Padraig Fallon welcomed the response.

I propose that Mary Quinn, Director of Services Housing, Corporate Services, Community and Cultural Services, give a brief overview of changes as per the circular with regard to Tenant Purchase Scheme to members of this Municipal.

"I propose that Mary Quinn, Director of Services Housing, Corporate Services, Community and Cultural Services, give a brief overview of changes as per the circular with regard to Tenant Purchase Scheme to members of this Municipal."

Report by Director of Services, Housing and Community, Corporate Services, Cultural and Emergency Services

"The Housing (Sale of Local Authority Houses) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 which come into effect on 1 February 2022 include changes to (a) minimum income criteria for applicants and (b) the period of time applicants must have been receiving social housing support to be eligible under the scheme. The amendments come into effect from 1st February 2022.

Specifically, the changes are as follows –

1.                  Minimum income requirements: The minimum income required for an appliacant to be eligible to apply under the scheme has been revised downward from €15,000p.a. to €12,500 p.a.

This change will ensure persons whose pension is their primary source of income can now apply under the scheme. The change only applies to pensions – other social welfare payments may only be regarded as secondary income.

2.                  Time receiving social housing supports: The period of time tenants will be required to be in receipt of social housing support to be considered eligible under the scheme has been changed from one to 10 years.

In the case of joint tenancies, both tenants must be in receipt of social housing support for at least 10 years before being eligible to apply."

Ms. Mary Quinn, Director of Services, informed members that further guidance in relation to the scheme is expected and that the matter would also be discussed at the Housing SPC scheduled for the 9th February.

Ms. Mary Quinn, Director of Services, outlined the changes in relation to income thresholds for the scheme, and in circumstances where a pension is the primary source of income for a household, 15% of household income is no longer required to come from employment.

Ms. Mary Quinn, Director of Services, proposed that the matter be further discussed at the Housing SPC, as there are further issues under the Tenant Purchase Scheme which require discussion.

Cllr Padraig Fallon welcomed the changes to the minimum income thresholds.

Cllr Mary Bohan, welcomed the changes in relation to people who are receiving pensions, however outlined that it is still quite restrictive in relation to people receiving other social welfare payments.

I again raise the issue of the green bollards with white stripes along the N16 at road exit locations. These bollards are very important to drivers for exit points but they are easily damaged especially at grass and hedge cutting times. Could I ask the Area Office to review what’s in place and ensure the bollards remain visible at all times.

"I again raise the issue of the green bollards with white stripes along the N16 at road exit locations. These bollards are very important to drivers for exit points but they are easily damaged especially at grass and hedge cutting times. Could I ask the Area Office to review what’s in place and ensure the bollards remain visible at all times."

Report by Roads - General

"Repairs will be logged to the National Roads Signage Maintenance Contract."

Cllr Sean McDermott outlined the issues with green bollards, and the importance they play in road safety.

I ask for an update on the taking in charge of Rockview Drive, Housing Estate, Manorhamilton.

"I ask for an update on the taking in charge of Rockview Drive, Housing Estate, Manorhamilton."

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

"The Council has not yet determined the number of estates that it proposes to take in charge this year. In determining the estates that are to be taken in charge the Council has to have regard to both its own resources and those of Irish Water and discussions on the available resources and capacities of both organisations have yet to be concluded. In addition to the resource capacities, issues relating to any necessary wayleaves that also have to be obtained will also have to be finalised in respect of any estates that are to be considered for taking in charge before they can be finalised. As a consequence, the Council will not be in a position to advise the exact number of estates that may be taken in charge until such time as it is in a position to initiate the statutory declaration of public roads public consultation process for the estates, which should take place at the end of the year. While the Rockview Drive estate will be considered, the Council can give no guarantee that it will qualify for inclusion in the estates that may be advertised at the end of the year."

Cllr Sean McDermott expressed his concern in relation to the proposed timeline for taking in charge of Rockview Drive, Housing Estate.

All members supported the motion.

Covid19 has had a devastating impact on many of our rural communities but none as profound as in the village of Kiltyclogher, including the closure of a number of businesses and local services e.g. the library, health centre etc. Therefore, I ask our CE Lar Power with his executive to facilitate and participate in an in-person meeting with our four Oireachtas members, the Councillors for the Manorhamilton MD and the local community of Kiltyclogher as a matter of urgency now that Covid restrictions are being lifted.

"Covid19 has had a devastating impact on many of our rural communities but none as profound as in the village of Kiltyclogher, including the closure of a number of businesses and local services e.g. the library, health centre etc. Therefore, I ask our CE Lar Power with his executive to facilitate and participate in an in-person meeting with our four Oireachtas members, the Councillors for the Manorhamilton MD and the local community of Kiltyclogher as a matter of urgency now that Covid restrictions are being lifted."

Report by Director of Services Housing, Corporate Services, Community and Cultural Services

"There has been significant investment in Kiltyclogher over the past 15 years under various funding programmes such as PEACE, Interreg, and Leitrim County Council investment in relation to projects such as access to Sean MacDiarmuida homestead and annual Sean MacDiarmuida Summer School. The impact of Covid 19 on all communities across the County including Kiltyclogher is fully acknowledged by Leitrim County Council.

With regard to the request for a special meeting with the Kiltyclogher community, it is considered this request is premature. Leitrim County Council will in in 2022 be commencing preparation of the next 6 year Local and Economic Community Plan which will involve a significant consultation opportunities and engagement with all communities. Furthermore under the PEACE Plus programme a Local Action Plan will be prepared and again this will be based on a community consultation process to identify actions/projects to be implemented under the programme. It is considered that both consultation processes will provide every opportunity for local communities including Kiltyclogher to engage with the members and the executive. Members of the Oireachtas will also be advised of the consultation processes and will also have the opportunity to participate should they wish to do so."

Cllr Justin Warnock expressed his dissatisfaction and disappointment with the response. Cllr Warnock stated that a proposed plan is not sufficient to ensure the survival of the village, and that the issues facing Kiltyclogher needs further action. Cllr Warnock outlined the historical significance of the village, and its prominent connection to Seán Mac Diarmuida. Cllr Warnock stated that if the school closes in Kiltyclogher it will be the death knell of the village.

Cllr Sean McDermott informed members of his personal connection to Kiltyclogher, and while acknowledging that there is always room for improvement, Cllr McDermott highlighted some of the actions that Leitrim County Council have taken to support Kiltyclogher, namely:

1.                  In 2007, Leitrim County Council purchased artifacts belonging to Seán Mac Diarmuida.

2.                  In 2008, Cllr Sean McGowan proposed that a summer school be held in Kiltyclogher, with the support of fellow council members. The following year the Summer School opened.

3.                  In 2012, negotiations commenced to purchase three acres of land around Seán Mac Diarmuida’s homestead.

4.                  A plan was drafted for a Heritage Centre, improvements to local roads, and a car park. Works were completed by 2016.

Cllr McDermott outlined the effort that was required by himself and the  ...  view the full minutes text for item MMD.9.22

A number of families in Kinlough on the Council's housing waiting list have been served notice to vacate their rented accommodation in the coming months. Therefore, I ask Leitrim County Council to purchase more houses in Kinlough in the interim until such time as they have sourced land to build their own houses.

"A number of families in Kinlough on the Council's housing waiting list have been served notice to vacate their rented accommodation in the coming months. Therefore, I ask Leitrim County Council to purchase more houses in Kinlough in the interim until such time as they have sourced land to build their own houses."

Report by Director of Services, Housing and Community, Corporate Services, Cultural and Emergency Services

"Over the past three years Leitrim County Council have purchased four properties through direct acquisitions and a further 5 properties through a Turnkey Acquisition in Kinlough to meet the general need based on the Housing List.

Circular 20/2021 which has been recently issued by the DHLGH indicates that the delegated sanction allowing local authority to acquire properties without prior approval from the DHLGH no longer applies. Acquisitions in 2022 and going forward will therefore now require prior DHLGH approval and must be focussed on the following priority areas:

•                    One-bedroom units to deliver on Housing First and meet the short supply in this category

•                    Other properties that allow persons/families to exit homelessness

•                    Specific housing required for/suitable for individuals with a disability or other particular priority needs

Notwithstanding this restriction on acquisitions Leitrim County Council Housing section is committed to delivering additional properties in Kinlough that meet the both above the above criteria and the needs of those on the Housing List in the Kinlough area.

Leitrim County Council is acutely aware of the need to develop an appropriate landbank in Kinlough on which future social housing projects can be developed. An Expression of Interest seeking the provision of zoned land suitable for residential development including for Kinlough was advertised locally and on e-tenders in July 2021 but unfortunately no potential lands were submitted for Kinlough. A further Expression of Interest seeking land in the Kinlough area will be advertised in February 2022 and the council will remain proactive in its effort to secure land in Kinough for direct build projects."

Cllr Justin Warnock outlined that a number of people have received notice to quit their leases within Kinlough and they are not in a position to move to another area. Cllr Warnock stated that there are not enough suitable properties for rent within Kinlough.

Ms. Mary Quinn, Director of Services, outlines the proposals under the recently announced Housing for All Plan, in relation to housing solutions for Kinlough. Ms. Quinn stated that anyone who has been given notice to quit should make immediate contact with Housing Section to receive support.

Cllr Mary Bohan stated that any family who receives a notice to quit should contact the Housing Section of Leitrim County Council immediately, to see what supports are available.

Cllr Felim Gurn gave details of the difficulties in securing rented accommodation within Manorhamilton.

Cllr Padraig Fallon supported the motion, and acknowledged the difficulties in securing rent accommodation throughout North Leitrim. Cllr Fallon reiterated the point that when a person received a notice to quit, they must contact Housing Section as a  ...  view the full minutes text for item MMD.10.22

Again I ask that public lighting be put in place from McCormack’s filling station out to the bridge, it is extremely dark and a very poor entrance to a town the size of Manorhamilton.

"Again I ask that public lighting be put in place from McCormack’s filling station out to the bridge, it is extremely dark and a very poor entrance to a town the size of Manorhamilton."

Report by Roads - General

"As you are aware LCC discussed this matter previously with the TII safety section to extend the public lighting from the 50km/hr speed limit to the Bridge and LCC were informed that given the fact that it is not serving a residential area no funding would be provided. As this does not qualify for TII maintenance funding either, the Design Office are currently preparing a detailed TII Lighting Assessment application for permission to provide public lighting along this section of Road to the Departures section of the TII. If this departure is approved, funding will be then sought for provision of the Public Lighting."

Cllr Frank Dolan stated that this Public Lighting along this road is a necessity, and that it is a dangerous health and safety situation, and it must be resolved.

All members supported the motion.

Mr Sean Rynn, District Engineer, stated that the main issue in relation to the proposal is funding but it would continue to be sought.

I ask that some routine maintenance be carried out on part of the Fawnlion Road, this section of the road seems to get potholed every year.

"I ask that some routine maintenance be carried out on part of the Fawnlion Road, this section of the road seems to get potholed every year."

Report by Roads - General

"The road will be surveyed, and maintenance works carried out as required."

Cllr Frank Dolan welcomed the response, however he stated a more permanent solution to the issue must be sought.

Cllr Felim Gurn supported the motion.

Mr Sean Rynn, District Engineer, stated that the situation would be examined further.

I propose that the Council carry out repairs and make the footpath safe at the entrance to Drumlease housing estate off Drumlease road.

"I propose that the Council carry out repairs and make the footpath safe at the entrance to Drumlease housing estate off Drumlease road."

Report by Roads - General

"The footpaths at the junction of Local Roads L-4165 and L-8165 have been identified for cleaning. Works have been added to the works list."

Cllr Mary Bohan queried when the work would be completed. Mr. Sean Rynn, Area Engineer, informed members that the work had been scheduled for commencement week commencing 24^th January and would be completed by the end of the week. Cllr Bohan welcomed the update.

I propose that the Council take immediate steps to prevent flooding at the Wood’s residence at Aughamore . This is caused by excess water coming off the R280.

"I propose that the Council take immediate steps to prevent flooding at the Wood’s residence at Aughamore. This is caused by excess water coming off the R280"

Report by Roads - General

"Some drainage maintenance works have been carried out along this section of R280. Extra works have been planned and will be carried out as part of other works in the area."

Cllr Mary Bohan queried when the work would be completed. Mr Sean Rynn, Area Engineer, informed members that a crew was currently onsite. Cllr Bohan welcomed the update.

•                    Cllr Justin Warnock queried whether there was an update on the new Council Building. Ms. Mary Quinn, Director of Services stated the matter was being progressed and would update when in a position to provide same.