Agenda and minutes

Venue: Council Chamber, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon

Contact: Patricia Bohan  Email: pbohan@roscommoncoco.ie; 090 66 37172

Media

Items
No. Item

136.20

Sympathy to family of Roisin Costello

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Cathaoirleach expressed his sympathy on behalf of the members of Roscommon County Council to staff member Tina Costello and her husband John and family on the recent sad passing of their daughter Roisin. One minute of silence was observed as a mark of respect.

137.20

Adoption of Minutes

-       Minutes of Plenary Meeting held on 23.11.2020

-       Minutes of Budget Meeting held on 26.11.2020

Additional documents:

Minutes:

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Crosby

            SECONDED by Cllr. Ward

It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of the Budget Meeting of 16.11.2020

 

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. McDermott

            SECONDED by Cllr. Fitzmauruce

It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of the Plenary Meeting of 26.11.2020

 

 

138.20

Matters Arising

Additional documents:

Minutes:

There were no matters arising.

139.20

Presentation on Mid Shannon Biosphere UNESCO application

·         Cathryn Hannon, NPWS

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Ms. Catherine Hannon from the NPWS delivered a presentation to the members remotely by MS Teams on the proposed Mid Shannon Biosphere UNESCO application.

 

·         There are 669 Biosphere Reserves in 120 countries worldwide. They are internationally recognised, nominated by national governments and remain under sovereign jurisdiction of the country where they are located. They are also a network for Research, Environmental Education & Training.

·         Through consultation process the State submits a Nomination form to the International Co-ordinating Council of the MAB Program.

Biosphere Reserves have no legal standing - UNESCO assumes countries take measures to protect sites by ‘existing’ protection means (Local & Area Development Plans/Existing Planning Regulations/ Natura 2000 Network/Statutory Nature Reserves etc.)

·         UNESCO proposed Mid Shannon Biosphere & Environs is about active management of all the things we’re proud of.

·         There are two Biospheres in Ireland – Dublin Bay Biosphere Reserve and Kerry Biosphere Reserve.

·         BR’s are traditionally organised into three interrelated zones:

o   Core Zone – this zone prioritises conservation and biological diversity. In parallel to conservation, economic activities can also be developed such as environmental education, research, environmental conservation and rehabilitation activities, recreational and Eco-tourism activities. The Core Zone could be the existing Natura 2000 Network sites.

o   Buffer Zone – identified as areas connected to the Core Zone and can host activities that are compatible with the Core Zone. Can be essential for maintaining biological & cultural diversity.

o   Transition Zone – where sustainable resource management practices are promoted and developed.

·         3 Functions of Biosphere Reserves:

o   Conservation  - The importance of the site for conservation of biological and cultural diversity at Regional and/or Global scales.

o   Development – foster economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable

o   Logistic support –support for demonstration projects, environmental education and training, research and monitoring related to local, nation and global issues

·         Different from other Bio Reserves in Ireland, Mid Shannon & Environs BR based on Wetlands and their importance for Wildlife/role in Climate Change & Solutions/provision of eco-tourism/Carbon sequestration,/Education and Awareness/Research.

·         The proposed Preliminary Working Boundary of Mid Shannon & Environs BR is based on the logic which aligns with sub-catchments developed by EPA under the Water Framework Directive. This is a flexible preliminary boundary and is a good starting point.

·         Lough Ree, at the centre of the proposed BR, is surrounded by three sub-catchments of the Upper Shannon Catchment natural watershed demarcation.

·         The natural demarcation of the proposed boundary captures the northerly direction flow of water towards Lough Ree to its out flow point at Athlone.

·         Mid Shannon Biosphere & Environs: Total area is 2,081.87 Sq. Km and the

Combined Natura 2000 sites Core Zone is 169.62 Sq. Km

o   Roscommon: 908.82 Sq. Km (Core Zone Area of Natura 2000 Sites 69.03 Sq. Km)

o   Longford: 652.43 Sq. Km (Core Zone Area of Natura 2000 Sites 59.89 Sq. Km)

o   Leitrim: 375.10 Sq. Km (Core Zone Area of Natura 2000 Sites 0 Sq. Km)

o   Westmeath: 145.52 Sq. Km (Core Zone Area of Natura 2000 Sites  ...  view the full minutes text for item 139.20

140.20

Management Report

-       Management Report for November 2020

Additional documents:

Minutes:

·         Management Report for November 2020 noted.

 

The Cathaoirleach informed the members that signing of the contract took place last week for work to commence on the old Royal Hotel in Boyle and thanked Chief Executive and Director of Services for Regeneration Unit for their work in relation to the projects.

 

The Chief Executive advised the members that after a considerable amount of time,   Roscommon County Council now owns what the “Parkway Lands” a 21 acre site on the Old Tuam Road in Monksland. He noted this is a strategic piece of land, compliments other investments in the area and endorses Roscommon County Councils commitments there. It is particularly important, given Athlone’s designation as a strategic growth centre.

 

The Chief Executive also advised the members that a derelict site has been purchased in Elphin in the middle of Main St. It is a mid Terrace commercial property and will allow for the development of Elphin.

 

The Members welcomed the announcements:

·         The site in Athlone is of great strategic importance and will be significant for those wanting to invest.

·         Facilities for young people in this area need to be developed in addition to houses.

·         It is unfortunate that the Council have to buy derelict buildings and we need to be stricter in this regard.

·         Welcome the purchase of the building in Elphin.

 

 

 

 

141.20

Rescind Disposal of Land

-       Resolution 110.20 dated 23rd November 2020:

        Site Comprising 0.14 Ha at Killapogue Td. Croghan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Additional documents:

Minutes:

This matter is deferred to the next meeting

142.20

Disposal of Lands - Housing

-          0.14 Ha in the Townland of Killappoge, Barony of Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Additional documents:

Minutes:

This matter is deferred to the next meeting.

 

143.20

Disposal Of Land - Assets

-       0.028hA (0.069 acres) at Mockmoyne Townland, Boyle Co Roscommon

Additional documents:

Minutes:

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Cummins

SECONDED by Councillor Callaghan

It was AGREED that the Council consent to the disposal of property pursuant to the provisions of Article 206 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, Section 211 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended) and Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 of particulars of property which it is proposed to dispose of at the location in County Roscommon and to the persons set out in the schedule hereunder.  Particulars of the property which the County Council proposes to dispose:

 

The Property:  Site comprising 0.028 hA (0.059 acres) at Mockmoyne Td., Boyle, Co. Roscommon

The person(s) from whom the land was acquired: Not Available

The person(s) to whom the land is to be disposed of: Shane Clarke, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

The consideration proposed in respect of the disposal: €5,000

 

144.20

Section 106 of the Local Government Act, 2001 - Public Lighting

-          Loan Approval in sum of €2,070,000 for Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Director of Services, Mr. Liam Bergin informed the members of the work to be completed under the Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project. This is the final phase of the conversion of public lights to LED energy l wit approx. 4,000 to be completed at a cost of €500 per light. The Council has achieved 30% energy savings to date and our target is 33%. He recommended that the members sanction a loan for the project as our matched funding contribution and the savings in maintenance and energy costs will pay back the loan over time.

 

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. McDermott

SECONDED by Cllr. Crosby

It was AGREED in accordance with Section 106 of the Local Government Act 2001 to approve a loan in sum of €2,070,000 for Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project.

 

The members discussed the project as follows:

·         Old type lamps (globes) in Tarmonbarry were removed by the ESB and these should be retained where possible in all villages where they exist as the add to the atmosphere of the villages.

·         There should be an improved response to the repair of lights that are reported as out due to electrical faults. It is taking too long to repair some faults, sometimes lights are out for years.

·         This is a good investment and can the Director detail the projected savings when all of the LED lights have been installed.

 

The Director replied that we are learning as we progress and in relation to Urban Regeneration of our towns and villages that is happening now, the retention of old lamps is something that we are cognisant of but sometimes there can be a light pollution issue. We will follow up in relation to light repairs with the contractor. In relation to cost savings the current generation of lights are expected to last 15 years but may last 20 with 50 percent cost saving over 20 years and payback period of 10 years is the current estimate.

145.20

2019 Audited Annual Financial Statement and Audit Report and Audit Committee Report

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Mr. Martin Lydon, Director of Services presented the 2019 Audited Annual Financial Statement (AFS) and Audit Report and the Audit Committee Report on the AFS 2019 and the Local Government Auditors Report to the members for noting.

 

He highlighted the following from the Audit report:

·         The 2019 revenue account show a €10k surplus and accumulated surplus of €202k.

·         There is an overdraft facility of €6m that was not used in 2019

·         There was large amount of capital investment in 2019 in particular, the extension to the arts centre, the purchase of velocity patches and the acquisition of 28 housing units.  There was also to disposal of 15 housing units during that time due to the tenant purchase scheme and the sale of rural houses

·         The income collection for rates was 89%, a 3 percent improvement on the previous year and exceeded the target set by the CCMA of 87%.

·         The cash collected increased by €95,000 and debtors decreased by €0.5m

·         A provision of €500k for non-collection of rates was included in light of revaluation process and this has proved prudent due to Covid-19

·         Our rate collection rate was 91%, one of the highest in the country and we collected an extra €500k in cash due to the removal of the maximum rent ceiling

·         Loan collection increased from 55 % to 76% people repaid their loans

·         The bad and doubtful Debt provision for the council for 2019 is deemed adequate by the auditor

·         The capital account recorded a net credit balance of €22m and include time indifferences and will be spent on various housing projects and mainly road projects as well as in the Community and Enterprise area of regeneration.

·         Development contributions debtors decreased to €5.5m and is an ongoing process

·         12 Rebuilding housing loans issues and all performing well

·         Number of unfinished housing estates reduced for 149 to 117 in 2019 (equivalent 700 houses). Bonds of €4.2m drawn down in respect of 43 estates and €1.8m to be spent. Cash bonds in place for 23 estates to value of €800k.

·         95 % of all invoices were paid within 30 days

·         Roscommon Leisure centre had cumulative losses of €214k and Moylurg Rockingham showed a surplus of €66k.

·         Audit committee to meet quarterly

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Cummins

SECONDED by Cllr. Keogh

It was AGREED to approve the Audit Report on the Annual Financial Statement 2019

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Shanagher

SECONDED by Cllr. Ward

It was AGREED to approve the Audit Committee Work Programme

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Cummins

SECONDED by Cllr. Byrne

It was AGREED to approve the Internal Audit Plan 2021

 

 

146.20

Draft Annual Service Delivery Plan 2021

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Draft Annual Service Delivery Plan 2021 was noted.

147.20

Presentation on Just Transition Projects

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Ms. Majella Hunt, Director of Services updated the members on the Just Transition Fund and its origins and development to the current status as follows:

 

From a strategic and programmes point of view the ethos of Just Transition initiative is based on the European Union Communication on New European Green Deal 2019;  Europe Climate Neutral Continent 2050;  National Development Plan – Project Ireland 2040; Climate Action Plan 2019;  Regional Enterprise Plan 2020 (8 Regions); Regional Spatial & Economic Strategy (RSES); Regional Growth Centres and Growth Framework;  Just Transition Plans Strategic Framework and  Brown to Green Strategy (Bord na Móna)

 

Indicators of poor Economic Performance in Northern & Western Region:

       Commercial vacancy rates within the Northern & Western region are quite high relative to State average – High Vacancy Rate in 7 Counties.

       Disposable income per head of population remains quite low within the region, and is falling behind relative to the State average –  €35,098 V €42,524

       Northern & Western region is not capturing as much high skilled employment relative to the EU28 and State averages.

       In recent years, Productivity within the region has fallen back, relative to the State average.

Multiple factors are likely to have caused the region’s GDP to fall relative to the EU average,

however poor performances in these indicators are likely to have contributed.

 

The Future Focus is on:

       Infrastructure - Energy, Transport, Water, Digital, Smart Rural Areas, Housing, and Broadband and Urban & Rural Regeneration

       Economy & Employment - Recovery through Job Creation, New Skills, Regional Growth & Government, Investment and Regional Balance-remote working

       Environment – Protection of Environment, Climate Action-Carbon Reduction, Circular Economy and Biodiversity

       Quality of Life – Health Care, Justice, Arts & Culture, Education, Wellness, and Sport

 

Just Transition Fund 2020:

Applications were open to Business, Community & Local Authorities.

In Strand 1 a total of €1.2 million made to 16 successful applicants for Projects costing less than € 100,000.

In Strand 2 an allocation of €108m was secured by Bord Na Móna for the Peatland Restoration Project in the Midlands which will create 310 Jobs and a further 47 Projects to the value of €27.8M for projects costing more than €100,000.

 

The successful projects in County Roscommon in Strand 1 were

       Lough Ree Bay Boardwalk - Roscommon County Council

       Moore Hub – Community Project

       Ballyforan Trail – Community Project

 

In Strand 2 the successful projects are:

       Cloontuskert/Ballyglass Units - Roscommon County Council

       Feasibility Study for Greenway/Heritage Trail, Mount Dillon, Funding €212,000

       Midland Wilderness, Roscommon/Longford County Councils

       Park Greenway Funding €102,000 Feasibility Study for Landing Space, Start Up or Visitor Centre & Organic Farm Funding €212,000

       Ballyforan Greenway Loop – Community Project

       Lough Ree – Access for All, Tourist Product Funding €471,693

       Cross County Initiatives-18 Projects

 

The Cathaoirleach thanked the Director for the detailed presentation and stated that the success of the projects will be judged by the number of jobs created in the area and the jobs must be at  ...  view the full minutes text for item 147.20

148.20

Chief Executive Business

Additional documents:

Minutes:

There was no Chief Executives Business.

149.20

Appointment to NUIG Governing Board

Additional documents:

Minutes:

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Leyden

SECONDED by Cllr. Naughten

It was AGREED to appoint Cllr. John Keogh to the Board of the National University of Ireland, Galway.

150.20

Correspondence

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Replies to Resolutions from Roscommon County Council:

·         1st Dec, 2020 – Reply letter from The Minister for Social Protection Ms. Heather Humphreys TD ref Notice of Motion regarding removing the means test for Carer’s Allowance and the payment of full rate Carer’s Allowance to people in receipt of other social welfare payments. 

·         3rd Dec, 2020 – Reply letter from Daragh McKevitt, Defence Forces Ireland ref Notice of Motion - 131.20(a) - Letter re Jadotville Medals.

·         10th Dec, 2020 – Reply letter from Simon Coveney T.D., Minister for Defence and Minister for Foreign Affairs ref Notice of Motion - Letter re Jadotville Medals.

 

 

Resolutions from other Local Authorities:

·         1st Dec, 2020 - Resolution from Galway County Council

That Galway County Council write to the Taoiseach and Minister for Children, Disability, Integration regarding a number of matters concerning Mother and Baby Homes including a request to publish the Final Report of the Mother and Baby Homes Commission as soon as possible, that a full state response is provided, that new statutory information and tracing legislation be published without delay, that survivors are given access to their personal records & that their rights to personal data are protected, that a range of supports for survivors are put in place and that Government continue to engage with stakeholders to establish a national archive of records related to institutional trauma. 

·         16th Dec, 2020 - Resolution from Waterford City and County Council

That Waterford City and County Council:

o   sends its solidarity and support to the former Debenhams workers.

o   reaffirms the Council’s support for workers’ rights, collective bargaining and fairness and dignity at work.

o   calls on the Government to implement the Duffy-Cahill report and to legislate to protect workers.

o   calls for KPMG and Government to immediately engage with the workers.

 

151.20

Notices of Motion

-          20.20 – Planet Youth Initiative – Cllr. Leyden

-          21.20  - Fr. Flanagan Memorial Bridge – Cllr. Waldron

Additional documents:

Minutes:

There are two notices of Motion on the agenda.

151.20a

20.20 Planet Youth Initiative - Leisure Card

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Notice of Motion from Cllr Leyden:

 

“That Roscommon County Council calls on the Government to support the Planet Youth initiative by financing a Leisure Card as a pilot project to enhance the health and well-being of young people in the Western region and to address the risk of drugs and alcohol abuse”

 

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply:

This motion requires a resolution of the Council.

 

Cllr Leyden requested support for her motion for an initiative that started in Iceland that allows everyone to have an equal opportunity to participate in different sports or leisure activities. This is an extension of the Planet Youth Project that started in the Western Region in 2018 with a large number of secondary schools involved and provides an outlet for extra curricular activities.

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Leyden

SECONDED by Cllr. Shanagher

It was AGREED That Roscommon County Council calls on the Government to support the Planet Youth initiative by financing a Leisure Card as a pilot project to enhance the health and well-being of young people in the Western region and to address the risk of drugs and alcohol abuse

 

151.20b

21.20 Rededication of Fr. Flanagan Memorial Bridge

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Notice of Motion from Cllr. Waldron:

 

“That Roscommon County Council organise a rededication ceremony of the "The Father Michael Flanagan Memorial Bridge" over the River Suck in Castlerea during Heritage Week 2021”

 

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply:

 

A suitable event to commemorate Fr. Michael Flanagan can be included in the events of Heritage Week 2021, subject of Covid restrictions.

 

Cllr. Waldron outlined the importance of Fr. Flanagan in the history of Roscommon and should be considered one of the most important Irishmen of his time. He was a radical Republican and was at the forefront of community development working with locals and promoting local produce. His is a story that needs to be told as it is a story of ambition and progress. His legacy needs to be more widely promoted.

 

It was noted that Castlerea Festival commemorated Fr. Flanagan at its festival.

 

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Waldron

SECONDED by Cllr Dineen

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council organise a rededication ceremony of the "The Father Michael Flanagan Memorial Bridge" over the River Suck in Castlerea during Heritage Week 2021.

 

 

152.20

Any Other Business

-          Election to Údaras na hOllscoile

Additional documents:

Minutes:

There are two matters to be raised under Any Other Business. 

152.20a

100 Year Commemoration

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Cllr. Fitzmaurice requested that it be noted in the minutes that this time 100 years ago, many Roscommon men, including his grandfather, were taken from their homes and interred in Ballykinlar Camp, Co Down. He also requested that notwithstanding National Commemoration events to remember the signing of the truce on 21st July 1921, Roscommon County Council should also organise an appropriate event to mark the 100 year anniversary in July.

152.20b

Survey Planes in South Roscommon

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Cllr. Ward referenced an ongoing matter of survey planes on behalf of an energy company carrying out work in the South Roscommon area since March 2020 and if the work is now essential and can the Council do anything about it. It was noted that this is not a matter for Roscommon County Council

 

 

 

Original text