Minutes: October 2004
October 20th, 2004MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS OF MONTHLY MEETING OF LETTEREKNNY TOWN COUNCIL HELD IN THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE, NEIL T. BLANEY ROAD, LETTERKENNY ON MONDAY 18TH OCTOBER, 2004 AT 7.00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cllr. D. Larkin, Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. C. Brogan, Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. V. Fisher,
Cllr. N. Clarke, Cllr. J. Lynch, Cllr. G. Mc Monagle and Cllr. J. Harte
OFFICIALS PRESENT:
M. Mc Loone, County Manager
P. Doherty, Town Clerk
J. Harley, Senior Planner
F. Sweeney, Area Manager (Planning)
P. Gillespie, Area Manager (Roads)
J. Kelly, Roads
F. Friel, Asst. Town Clerk
ADOPTION OF MINUTES
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch the Minute of In-Committee Meeting held on 13.09.04 were adopted by the Council.
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan the Minutes of Monthly Meeting held on 13.09.04 were adopted by the Council.
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Lynch seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan the Minutes of In-Committee Meeting held on 27.09.04 were adopted by the Council.
On the proposal of Cllr. V. Fisher seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch the Minutes of Re-convened Monthly Meeting held on 27.09.04 were adopted by the Council.
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. G. Mc Monagle the Minutes of Re-convened Monthly Meeting held on 04.10.04 were adopted by the Council.
MANAGER’S ORDERS
Orders made by the County Manager since the date of the last meeting were noted by the Council.
CORRESPONDENCE
The Town Clerk informed the Members that the Department had recently announced an allocation of €200,000 to Letterkenny Town Council under the Central Heating in Local Authority Rented Dwellings Programme 2004.
The Town Clerk informed the Members that following the Council’s request to meet with the ESB a response was received asking that an initial meeting be set up with a representative from Leterkenny Town Council to discuss the issues.
The Town Clerk informed the Members of a Conference entitled “Policy Making in Local Government, Responsibilities and Implications for Councillors� being held in The Carraig Hotel, Main Street, Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Tipperary. The Members having been informed of the cost of attending agreed that 2 Members should attend and that the names be drawn by lot. The names drawn on this occasion were Cllr. G. Mc Monagle and Cllr. D. Larkin.
The Town Clerk informed the Members of a Conference entitled “Eco Business ‘ hosted by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce to be held on 20th & 21st October, 2004. The Members having been informed of the cost of attending agreed that 2 Members should attend and that the names be drawn by lot. The names drawn on this occasion were Cllr. C. Brogan and Cllr. J. Crossan.
Cllr. Jimmy Harte left the meeting at this stage.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Planning applications received since the date of the last meeting were noted by the Council.
Mr. Jim Harley again advised the Members that in light of the current planning application received for development at Ashlawn/Ballyraine (Ref L100/04) that in the event of the Planning Officials giving favourable consideration to the application that same would be brought before the members as a material contravention of the development plan.
MAYOR’S BUSINESS
The Town Mayor Cllr. D. Larkin wished the Oireachtas all the best and congratulated Caitlin Ui Chochlainn, Co-ordinator on her great work.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin notified the Members of his attendance at the 150th Anniversary Celebration of Loreto Convent and asked that a civic reception be afforded to Loreto Convent on their 150th Anniversary.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin notified the Members of his attendance at the recent ADC of the Rockhill District Committee, PDFORRA.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin notified the Members of his attendance at the Launch of “Shopping LK� and wished the Chamber every success with their new venture.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin wish the delegation from Latvia an enjoyable stay while in Letterkenny.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin paid tribute to Mrs. Denise Blake at the recent launch of her new poetry book and it was agreed that a letter of congratulations be sent in this regard.
ELECTION OF DELEGATES TO THE V.E.C. (2)
Cllr. V. Fisher proposed that P.J. Blake be appointed as delegate to the V.E.C. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan.
Cllr. D. Blake proposed that Cllr. C. Brogan be appointed as delegate to the V.E.C. Committee. This was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher.
As there were no other proposals it was agreed that P.J. Blake and Cllr. C. Brogan be appointed as delegates to the V.E.C.
TAXI FARE – REVISED PROPOSAL
On the proposal of Cllr. V. Fisher seconded by Cllr. D. Blake the Members agreed to the new fare increase as circulated with the Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin asking that this new fare structure not be reviewed for at least 18 months.
JUNCTION AT GORTLEE/RAMELTON ROAD
TRAFFIC LIGHTS - ASHLAWN
In answer to their questions Cllr. J. Harte and Cllr. V. Fisher were advised that the Council had prepared Gortlee junction to take the traffic control in Spring 2004. Donegal County Council subsequently had problems with their lights at Ashlawn and wanted to connect same to the Gortlee traffic lights control. These works were carried out in Summer 2004. The contractor installing the lights then requested changes to what was previously agreed. Due to work programs same could not be done until last week. All works shall be complete this week by the Council and we are awaiting the contractor to install the lights.
TRAFFIC CALMING - ASHLAWN/SYLVAN PARK JUNCTION
In answer to his question Cllr. J. Harte was advised that a design has been carried out to improve vision lines and reduce speed at this area of town as part of a development at Gortlee.
WINDYHALL ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. C. Brogan was advised that works are currently on-going at Windyhall and are due for completion this week.
ILLEGAL ENCAMPMENT AT LISNENAN
In answer to his question Cllr. C. Brogan was advised that the matter has been referred to the Council’s Solicitor to seek and Injunction under the Planning & Development Act. It is hoped that the matter will be brought up before the next sitting of the Circuit Court.
SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN BEECHWOOD AND HIGHFIELD
In answer to his question Cllr. J. Lynch was advised that a blockage has been removed from the sewerage system at Beechwood which has now alleviated the problem. In relation to High Field a sewer overflow was created over 2 years ago which alleviated the flooding with only one incident in the past 2 years due to a blockage. The current new sewerage system being put in place in the town will alleviate any further problems.
PLANNING – FURTHER INFORMATION
In answer to his question Cllr. J. Lynch was advised that Under Article 35 (1) (c) of the Planning & Development Regulation 2001 the applicant is required to publish a notice in an approved newspaper station that significant further information has been received.
SECTION 13 – PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000
In answer to his question Cllr. J. Lynch was advised that Section 13 of the Planning & Development Act 2000 sets out the procedure for the variation of a Development Plan.
HOUSING LIST
In answer to his question Cllr. N. Clarke was advised that there are approximately 1000 applicants currently on the housing list and it was agreed that a breakdown of applicants would be given.
HOUSING ALLOCATIONS
In answer to his question Cllr. N. Clarke was advised that it is anticipated that the next houses will become available in March 2005.
PLANNING APPLICATION L.60/03
In answer to his question Cllr. N. Clarke was advised that the entrance to L.60/03 meets the requirements of the Development Plan in terms of vision lines. In the event of an accident in any part of the town same will be a matter for the Gardai to determine responsibility.
WOLFE TONE PLACE
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Blake was advised that works agreed with residents at Wolfe Tone Place included the filling of potholes on back lane. This was done some time ago. A light has been requested on the back lane. This order is currently with the ESB. A second light has been requested and same will be considered as part of the 2005 Roadworks Programme.
BALLYBOE/GLENCAR
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Larkin was advised that Tenders are currently being assessed and it is expected that a Contractor will be appointed before the end of the month.
WORKS ON KILTOY ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Larkin was advised that resurfacing, public lighting, footpath and drainage works are currently ongoing and will be due for completion in the coming weeks. Further allocation will be required in 2005 to complete this section to existing footpath.
SPEER’S LANE
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Larkin was advised that Speers Lane was made one-way on the direction from Council Members and following request from residents consultation took place with the Gardai and the “No Entry� was implemented as per regulations.
LOWER MAIN STREET
In answer to his question Cllr. V. Fisher was advised that bricks at Lower Main Street have been removed.
POTHOLES – ROSEMOUNT TERRACE
In answer to his question Cllr. V. Fisher was informed that Donegal County Council have advised that they hoped to resurface the area in the coming week.
RE-LINING
In answer to her question Cllr. J. Crossan was advised that the Council have an ongoing program of renewing roadmarkings in the town. A significant number of roads were re-lined in the past two weeks.
TOP DRESSING ON ROADS
In answer to her question Cllr. J. Crossan was advised that Lismonaghan junction, Kiltoy/Middle Road junction and New Line Road had defective surfacing. The Contractors have removed same and re-layed the new surface at their own cost.
OLD FIRE STATION
In answer to her question Cllr. J. Crossan was advised that Donegal County Council have advised that they have not yet finalised its proposal for the building and that the Council are reviewing their assets portfolio with the old Fire Station being examined in this context.
DOUBLE YELLOW LINES
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. D. Blake it was agreed that the Council place double yellow lines from the LYIT to ALDI on the Ramelton Road.
Cllr. C. Brogan also asked that double yellow lines be placed on New Line Road to alleviate the problem of cars parking.
CASUAL TRADING AREA
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Lynch seconded by Cllr. D. Blake it was agreed that consideration be given in view of the increase of chip vans and pending National Fleadh, that we control and designate a casual trading area.
ADVISORY MUNICIPAL POLICY COMMITTEE
Cllr. J. Lynch and Cllr. N. Clarke proposed that this Authority set up an advisory Municipal Policy Committee. The Town Clerk, P. Doherty advised the Members that the Council are currently awaiting guidelines from the Department on this matter.
YOUTH CLUB
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Lynch seconded by Cllr. V Fisher it was agreed that this Council call a meeting of interested people who want to set up a Youth Club.
Cllr. J. Harte returned to the meeting at this stage.
SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL, CINEMA, PARK, ETC
Cllr. N. Clarke proposed that this Council develop safe routes to School, Cinema, the Park etc. On proposing the motion Cllr. N. Clarke outlined that a number areas in the town were currently pedestrian unsafe. A brief discussion followed with all members supporting the motion. Cllr. N. Clarke’s motion was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Cllr. N. Clarke proposed that in the event of hazardous materials such as asbestos being part of any demolition or renovation that as part of planning permission a legal contract be put in place for its proper disposal. This motion was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher. Mr. Jim Harley, advised the Members that there is currently legislation in place under the EPA.
CIVIC RECEPTIONS
Cllr. D. Blake proposed that the Council establish a committee to set criteria for the awarding of Civic Receptions. On proposing the motion Cllr. D. Blake asked that a policy be set in place for the awarding of Civic Receptions. This motion was seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan who suggested that an annual event take place and that awards be presented under different categories. The Town Clerk, P. Doherty suggested that 3 Members be nominated to form the Committee. Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that Cllr. D. Blake be nominated to the Committee. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan. Cllr. J. Harte proposed that Cllr. J. Lynch be appointed to the Civic Reception Committee. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan. Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that Cllr. V. Fisher be appointed to the Civic Reception Committee. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan. As there were no other proposals it was agreed that Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. J. Lynch and Cllr. V. Fisher be appointed to the committee for the hosting of Civic Receptions.
TWO WAY SYSTEM ON PEARSE ROAD
Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that this Council engages a public consultation process prior to re-introducing the two-way system on Pearse Road. Cllr. C. Brogan queried the legality of the motion under the Standing Orders. A lengthy discussion followed with the Members showing their support for the motion. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch.
INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS
Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that this Council send an invitation to the new Minister of Environment, Dick Roache to meet with the Town Council, representatives from the County Council, County Development Board, Chamber of Commerce, I.D.A. and Enterprise Ireland to discuss the infrastructure needs of Letterkenny as a gateway town. A brief discussion followed with the Members supporting the motion. Cllr. D. Larkin’s motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch. The County Manager, M. Mc Loone advised the Members that the Link with Derry was also a very distinguishing feature of our gateway town and that this item could also be put on their agenda.
LITTER WARDEN
Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that this Council employs its own litter warden. This motion was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher with all Members supporting the motion. The County Manager, M. Mc Loone advised the Members that this matter would be considered at the forthcoming Budget Meeting for 2005.
RE-LINING
Cllr. V. Fisher proposed that the Council sort out the dangerous exit to main road at Mc Morrow’s family home in Kiltoy. The motion was seconded by Cllr. D. Larkin and it was agreed that the Town Engineer would visit the site and report back.
RE-LINING
Cllr. V. Fisher proposed that the Council sort out the dangerous exit to Main Road at Collin’s family home at Sallaghagrane. The motion was seconded by Cllr. D. Larkin and it was agreed that the Town Engineer would visit the site and report back.
RE-LINING
Cllr. V. Fisher proposed that the Council sort out the dangerous exit left by the re-lining of the road at Michael mc Cole’s house. The motion was seconded by Cllr. D. Larkin and it was agreed that the Town Engineer would visit the site and report back.
SCHOOL WARDEN
Cllr. J. Crossan proposed that this Council employ a Lollipop person for the entrance to the Gael-Scoil Ailigh in the morning and at lunch-time to assist the students crossing this busy and dangerous road. On proposing the motion Cllr. J. Crossan advised that at present there was only a warden present at the evening and felt that a warden should also be made available for the morning and mid-day as this was a very busy stretch of road. This motion was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Crossan seconded by Cllr. G. Mc Monagle it was agreed that this Council investigate the responsibility of the suppliers of traffic lights particularly those which are constantly going out of action. A brief discussion followed and it was agreed that a report be brought back to the Members.
LONG LANE
Cllr. J. Harte proposed that the Council widens the junction at the bottom of Long Lane to incorporate an extra lane. Cllr. G. Mc Monagle asked that this extra lane not be considered until after traffic calming measures are put in place. A brief discussion followed and it was therefore agreed that Cllr. J. Harte’s motion be amended to read that “following the installation of traffic measures that the Council widens the junction at the bottom of Long Lane to incorporate an extra lane. This motion was seconded by Cllr. D. Larkin.
PRIMARY SCHOOL FACILITIES IN GORTLEE AREA
Cllr. J. Harte proposed that the Council call on the Minister for Education to locate primary school facilities in the Gortlee area where the land is zoned educational. Mr. Jim Harley again advised the Members that in light of the current planning application received for the site in question that in the event of the Planning Officials giving favourable consideration to the application that same would be brought before the members as a material contravention of the development plan. Cllr. J. Harte welcomed this decision.
TOWN BUS
The Town Clerk, P. Doherty asked the Members that a committee be set up in relation to the establishment of the Town Bus Services comprising of 3 Members, an official from Roads Section, Planning Section and Letterkenny Town Council. Cllr. D. Blake proposed Cllr. J. Crossan which was seconded by Cllr. G. Mc Monagle. Cllr. J. Crossan proposed Cllr. C. Brogan which was seconded by Cllr. N. Clarke. Cllr. J. Lynch proposed Cllr. N. Clarke which was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher. As there were no other proposals it was agreed that Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. C. Brogan and Cllr. N. Clarke be the representatives from Letterkenny Town Council on the committee for the establishment of the Town Bus Service.
This concluded the business of the meeting.