Agenda and minutes

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Padraig Fallon

             SECONDED by Cllr Justin Warnock

It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of the Manorhamilton Municipal District Meeting of 15^th May 2023

Members noted the response received from the ESB in relation to recent outages in the Killargue area. Cllr Mary Bohan expressed her dissatisfaction with the response and requested that an internal contact be sought from the ESB so arrange for a comprehensive reply to be provided. Ms Mary Quinn referred to difficulties in getting a regional contact however the matter will be pursued.

Members noted the response from the Minister for Finance, Mr Michael McGrath TD regarding an extension to Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme which  will be extended until the 31^st July 2023.

Members noted responses received from Northern Ireland Water and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency regarding pollution in Lough Melvin from an unfinished estate in Garrison, Co. Fermanagh. It was noted that no response was received from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Mary Bohan

             SECONDED by Cllr Justin Warnock

It was AGREED to write a reminder letter to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council regarding the pollution of Lough Melvin from an unfinished estate in Garrison, Co. Fermanagh, requested that the matter be addressed.

Cllr Justin Warnock stated that the issue is not being taken seriously enough outlining  that a number of dogs have died recently and there are growing fears regarding the quality of the water in Lough Melvin.

When a utility provider like the ESB or Bord Gáis cut off a business struggling with the rise in utility bills it can take up to 6 months to 2 years to get a reconnection at a fee of €1000 to €3000 payable to the provider. Surely it can be done faster, otherwise the business is gone and staff and suppliers will lose out. We should look at saving the business and the jobs in unprecedented times. I ask this MD to write to the ESB and Bord Gáis with regard to this issue.

"When a utility provider like the ESB or Bord Gáis cut off a business struggling with the rise in utility bills it can take up to 6 months to 2 years to get a reconnection at a fee of €1000 to €3000 payable to the provider. Surely it can be done faster, otherwise the business is gone and staff and suppliers will lose out. We should look at saving the business and the jobs in unprecedented times. I ask this MD to write to the ESB and Bord Gáis with regard to this issue."

Cllr Felim Gurn highlighted that businesses are currently stuck in limbo due to the lengthy delays in getting reconnected for gas and electricity. The current waiting time for reconnection is 6 months to two years and in that time the business is gone forever. Cllr Gurn stressed that businesses that get caught in this waiting period need to be assisted.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Felim Gurn

             SECONDED by Cllr Justin Warnock

It was AGREED to write ESB and Bord Gáis on the issue of delays regarding reconnection times for businesses.

The sewerage system in Rossinver is and has not been connected to a new system by Irish water, as a result waste is being collected and deposited into the sewerage system in Manorhamilton at weekly cost to taxpayers for the last 8 to 10 years. Surely it makes more sense to invest in the sewerage system and not run the risk of it flowing into Lough Melvin causing contamination of the water supply for residents in Kinlough and Glenade. I ask this Municipal to write to Irish Water to seek clarity on what is possible in Rossinver.

"The sewerage system in Rossinver is and has not been connected to a new system by Irish water, as a result waste is being collected and deposited into the sewerage system in Manorhamilton at weekly cost to taxpayers for the last 8 to 10 years. Surely it makes more sense to invest in the sewerage system and not run the risk of it flowing into Lough Melvin causing contamination of the water supply for residents in Kinlough and Glenade. I ask this Municipal to write to Irish Water to seek clarity on what is possible in Rossinver."

Report by Head of Finance & Water Services

"Leitrim County Council has prepared a feasibility study, including a design for a new wastewater treatment system in Rossinver and has sought funding for the construction of this system from the Rural Water Section of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. We await a decision on whether our funding bid has been successful. The existing wastewater treatment system in Rossinver does not pose a risk to public health or the environment."

Cllr Felim Gurn urged Leitrim County Council and Irish Water to start putting a plan in place to address this issue. Irish Water have a duty of care to the residents. A similar issue exists in Skreeny Manor where tankers are paid to collect wastewater on a regular basis.

Ms Mary Quinn stated that the current plant in Rossinver is in a natural flood zone and requires an upgrade. The Rural Water Department have applied for funding under the Multi Annual Rural Water Programme to deliver a new treatment plant for the residents and local community. Leitrim County Council are currently awaiting a decision on this funding application.

Cllr Justin Warnock highlighted that there are approximately 14 houses and a community centre reliant on the current treatment plant.

Cllr Sean McDermott stated that during the boom period contractors across the county had plans to build sewerage systems to service housing estates but during the recession these plans fell through, leaving lots of estates with inadequate wastewater treatment systems.

Cllr Padraig Fallon supported the motion.

Further to my previous motion, correspondence and inquiries, I wish to ask how works at Aughavohill Kinlough are progressing - Proposed Cattle Grid to stop livestock coming down.

"Further to my previous motion, correspondence and inquiries, I wish to ask how works at Aughavohill Kinlough are progressing - Proposed Cattle Grid to stop livestock coming down."

Report by Capital Projects Office

"A site visit took place with both Cllr Fallon and Cllr Warnock separately to assess a suitable location for the cattle grid. The road is a recognised cycle route and some consultations were carried out recently with cyclists as well as an engineer installing a cattle grid at Lukes Bridge in Sligo, it has been determined that the installation of a cattle grid on the L-21081 in Aughnavohill is unsuitable as it will introduce a hazard to motorists and in particular increase the risk of injury to cyclists, there are currently no plans to install a cattle grid at this location."

Cllr Padraig Fallon expressed his dissatisfaction with the response, outlining that  the issue of travelling livestock as a serious road safety issue.

Cllr Justin Warnock outlined that Seamus McGowan of the North Leitrim Glens Cycling Club has reviewed the site of the cattle grid and has outlined no issues with the location.

Cllr Padraig called on Leitrim County Council to review this issue again.  Sheep are coming down onto the main road from commonage and are a danger to motorists and cyclists.

Mr. Eric Gilroy agreed he would revisit the proposal of a cattle grid. However, he also confirmed that he had spoken to cyclists that were not in favour of a cattle grid on this road and it may be unsafe.

Cllr Padraig Fallon also requested that simple signage alerting cyclists to the dangers of livestock could also be erected to make cyclists aware.

Mr. Eric Gilroy confirmed that signage has been installed at Luke’s Bridge Sligo and can be reviewed for this location at Aughnavohill. He also queried the feasibility of fencing the commonage to prevent sheep from straying onto the main road.

Cllr Justin Warnock informed the members that the area cannot be fenced as it is part of an agricultural scheme.

Further to a previous motion seeking railing and fencing at the play area on the Carrick Road Drumkeeran, I again propose safety measures be put in place here.

"Further to a previous motion seeking railing and fencing at the play area on the Carrick Road Drumkeeran, I again propose safety measures be put in place here."

Report by Capital Projects Office

"There is no source of funding in the roads budget for installation of a new boundary at this location. Alternative sources of funding can be explored through the economic development unit."

Cllr Padraig Fallon outlined that the playground is well used and is a popular amenity in Drumkeeran. He called on Leitrim County Council to install fencing as dangers exist for young children.

Cllr Mary Bohan paid tribute to the Drumkeeran Tidy Towns on the development of the Drumkeerin Viewing area at the entrance of the town outlining that the group are also developing a biodiversity garden and fencing is required at the lower end of the site where most of the activity takes place.

Mr. Eric Gilroy confirmed that the current funding used to develop the viewing area would not cover the cost of fencing. The cost of high-quality permanent fencing required would be substantial. He stated he would explore the cost of fencing.

I am raising the issue of the Glenboy/Glenfarne Group Water Scheme which is close to collapsing. This water scheme has over 435 connections. In April 2021 Leitrim County Council lodged an application to Irish Water for this scheme to be taken in charge, progress has been so slow that each passing month is bringing this scheme closer to collapsing. The committee which is made up of volunteers are very worried for the scheme’s continuation. I ask for an update on the progress of this scheme.

"I am raising the issue of the Glenboy/Glenfarne Group Water Scheme which is close to collapsing. This water scheme has over 435 connections. In April 2021 Leitrim County Council lodged an application to Irish Water for this scheme to be taken in charge, progress has been so slow that each passing month is bringing this scheme closer to collapsing. The committee which is made up of volunteers are very worried for the scheme’s continuation. I ask for an update on progress this scheme."

Report by Head of Finance & Water Services

"Leitrim County Council are continuously contacting Uisce Eireann for information in relation to the progress of the taking in charge of Glenboy / Glenfarne GWS. However, responses from Uisce Eireann as to what is impeding the completion of the taking in charge of this GWS have been vague.

In June 2023, Leitrim County Council again contacted Uisce Éireann about the situation with Glenboy / Glenfarne GWS and Uisce Éireann confirmed that they do not have the resources and won’t be taking this scheme or any other scheme in charge until they recruit additional staff.

Cllr Sean McDermott highlighted that the Glenboy Glenfarne GWS had two main sources of funding up until 2019 – Funding from Leitrim County Council through the Annual Subsidy and contributions €150 per year from every household on the scheme. The scheme are no longer permitted to charge households for domestic water usage and therefor the loss of income has destroyed the ability of the scheme to cover its costs. The scheme has a number of pumping stations, and the cost of electricity has skyrocketed. The scheme is now on the brink of collapse due to lack of funds. The scheme made an application through Leitrim County Council to have their scheme taken in charge by Uisce Eireann in 2021 and yet the scheme has not been taken in charge.

Cllr Mary Bohan supported the motion, and paid tribute to the effort of volunteers that run group water schemes on behalf of their local community.

It was noted that  Uisce Eireann have confirmed that they do not have the resources to take on any larger group water scheme or schemes that have assets such as pumping stations.

Cllr Felim Gurn proposed that a letter from Leitrim County Council is written to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage regarding the issue with the taking in charge of the Glenboy Glenfarne GWS.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Felim Gurn

             SECONDED by Cllr Sean McDermott

It was AGREED to write to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage regarding the taking in charge of the Glenboy Glenfarne GWS by Uisce Eireann.

I ask the area engineer if traffic calming measures can be introduced on the regional road R283 on the approach from Rossinver into the town of Manorhamilton as some of the traffic is travelling at speed. There is a lot of traffic exiting and entering on to this section of road which is very dangerous.  

"I ask the area engineer if traffic calming measures can be introduced on the regional road R283 on the approach from Rossinver into the town of Manorhamilton as some of the traffic is travelling at speed. There is a lot of traffic exiting and entering on to this section of road which is very dangerous."

Report by Capital Projects Office

"This location will be assessed for consideration in low-cost safety applications made towards the end of the year."

Cllr Sean McDermott welcomed the reply and highlighting the speed of traffic travelling on the road.

Cllr Frank Dolan supported the motion and agreed that the road is extremely busy with cars travelling at high speeds that have the potential to cause a serious accident.

I ask the Chairman of the Manorhamilton MD, Cllr Frank Dolan to arrange a meeting for us with the ACRES Breffni Co-Operation Project Team regarding progress being made for the New ACRES Scheme in this Municipal District.

“I ask the Chairman of the Manorhamilton MD, Cllr Frank Dolan to arrange a meeting for us with the ACRES Breffni Co-Operation Project Team regarding progress being made for the New ACRES Scheme in this Municipal District."

Cllr Justin Warnock stated that a meeting is being organised with the Department of Agriculture  to discuss the scheme.

Cllr Frank Dolan confirmed that he has spoken to the project team, and he will schedule the meeting in the near future.

I ask Shane Mulvey, Housing, with responsibility for the Croi Conaithe scheme, a) how many applications have been received for the town scheme and for the rural scheme and b) how many applications have been approved for both these schemes in the Manorhamilton Municipal District.

"I ask Shane Mulvey, Housing, with responsibility for the Croí Conaithe scheme, a) how many applications have been received for the town scheme and for the rural scheme and b) how many applications have been approved for both these schemes in the Manorhamilton Municipal District."

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

"In total 51 applications have been received to date for the Croí Cónaithe Refurbishment Grant of which 22 have been approved with 3 more scheduled for inspection. Whilst the scheme was extended in November 2022 to include rural areas there is no distinction between applications received for towns or rural areas. Within the Manorhamilton Municipal District 14 application have been received to date and 5 have currently been approved. Additional supporting documentation has been sought on the remaining 9 applications.

Cllr Justin Warnock stated that this grant has opened up opportunities for  people to renovate old houses for long-term letting.

Cllr Felim Gurn highlighted the need to allow funding to be delivered up front to applicants rather than payment of all costs up front to claim the grant, outlining that applicants would require a bridging loan to meet the costs of refurbishment before the grant is awarded.

Cllr Padraig Fallon stated he expected more applicants from this municipal district, and he expects that more applications will be received once further bridging loans are approved.

Cllr Mary Bohan highlighted that the costs of construction have risen significantly.

Ms Mary Quinn outlined that applicants under the  Croí Cónaithe Refurbishment Grant Scheme can also apply for  SEAI grants in relation to energy improvements.

Cllr Felim Gurn queried whether a grant of €7,500 is also available for derelict buildings. Ms Mary Quinn confirmed that this grant is only available for farm buildings under a specific heritage category.

I ask what is the Council’s position regarding works under the Safe Routes to School at Drumlease National School? I propose that Leitrim County Council call on the Department of Education as a matter of urgency to approve emergency funding under the Summer Works programme to improve the main front access and the school yard in the interest of student safety.

"I ask what is the Council’s position regarding works under the Safe Routes to School at Drumlease National School? I propose that Leitrim County Council call on the Department of Education as a matter of urgency to approve emergency funding under the Summer Works programme to improve the main front access and the school yard in the interest of student safety."

Report by Capital Projects Office

"Works under the safe route to school program are well progressed, works include front of school improvement works & permeability link to Stone Bridge Estate & Drumlease Estate. Outstanding works including the Buff high friction surface and road markings will be completed when the school is closed for summer holidays. Additional funding is being sought for Driver Feedback signs which were requested from the school on 3rd May, these were not part of the original Scope of works.

Cllr Mary Bohan highlighted that a wall has collapsed at the school and emergency funding is required to repair the wall as it is a health and safety issue for staff and students. The wall has a poor foundation and risks further collapse.

Cllr Frank Dolan supported the motion and stated that there are issues affecting the progress of works to the front of the school as a landowner is not willing to cooperate. There are no objections to works at the back of the school.

Cllr Padraig Fallon supported the motion and has spoken to the Senior Executive Engineer in the Active Travel Department. He also confirmed that Minister for Education, Norma Foley has confirmed the matter would be assessed.

Cllr Sean McDermott requested that a digitised sign be installed on the approach to the school.

Mr. Eric Gilroy confirmed that there are three types of works involved –

 1. The Safe Routes to Schools works which are significantly completed;

 2. Works to install a footpath to a nearby housing estate are in discussion with landowners and will be reviewed, however the progress of these works will depend on landowner agreement.

3. The works to repair the wall at the school are not under the remit of Leitrim County Council and the school can seek funding from the Department of Education to complete these works.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Mary Bohan

             SECONDED by Cllr Frank Dolan

It was AGREED to write to the Minister for Education seeking emergency funding under the Summer Works Scheme for Drumlease NS.

I propose that Leitrim County Council and Irish Water take immediate action to rectify the situation at the sewerage plant at the Radairc an tSeipeal housing estate in Drumkeeran.

"I propose that Leitrim County Council and Irish Water take immediate action to rectify the situation at the sewerage plant at the Radairc an tSeipeal housing estate in Drumkeeran."

Report by Head of Finance & Water Services

"The Wastewater Pump Station located at Radharc an tSéipeál, Drumkeeran is Operated and Maintained by Uisce Eireann and the Local Representative should refer the issues raised to Uisce Eireann through the LRSD avenue for their comments accordingly."

Cllr Mary Bohan outlined that numerous complaints have been received by residents in the Radairc and tSeipeal regarding the smell of sewerage. The treatment plant was put in place to service 60 houses, however, the plant is operating at a much lower level and causing issues.

Ms Mary Quinn advised that numerous communications have been made with Uisce Eireann. Their advice was to log all issues as evidence and submit the log to Uisce Eireann.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr Mary Bohan

             SECONDED by Cllr Padraig Fallon

It was AGREED to write to the Uisce Eireann regarding the wastewater treatment plant in Radharc an tSeipeal, Drumkeerin. 

I ask Leitrim County Council to examine the bump on the R278 at Moragh, while this is not a major issue it is causing difficulties and proving dangerous for motorists using this road.

"I ask Leitrim County Council to examine the bump on the R278 at Moragh, while this is not a major issue it is causing difficulties and proving dangerous for motorists using this road."

Report by Capital Projects Office

"The Roads section will assess this issue for consideration in future roads programmes or for low-cost safety works if deemed necessary."

Cllr Frank Dolan stated that the problem is getting worse, and cars are being forced to swing across the road to avoid this.

Mr. Eric Gilroy confirmed that the issue will be reviewed.

Now that the O'Rourke's Table Trail has been upgraded there is a need for extra signage because of the interest and publicity it is receiving, I am asking Leitrim County Council for assistance in this matter.

"Now that the O'Rourke's Table Trail has been upgraded there is a need for extra signage because of the interest and publicity it is receiving, I am asking Leitrim County Council for assistance in this matter."

Report by Capital Projects Office

"Roads will assess the existing signage layout to determine if additional signage or upgrading of the existing signage is required. In addition, it has been noted that Google Maps is directing traffic from Sligo to the wrong location causing some difficulties with residents on a private lane behind the amenity, Roads is investigating a resolution to this issue."

Cllr Frank Dolan highlighted that O’Rourke’s Table is ready for opening and will be attracting a lot more visitors and tourists. At the moment, google maps is redirecting visitors to the wrong location. He requested that additional signage be installed to ensure that visitors find their way to the site.

Mr. Eric Gilroy stated he would look into updating google maps to the correct route for O’Rourke’s Table.

This concluded the business of the meeting at 15:40 p.m.

All members wish to extend their thanks to Bryan Fennell, outgoing Rural Recreation Officer for Leitrim and express their best wishes to him in his new role. The members requested a letter of thanks be issued to Bryan.