Mr. Shane Tiernan presented the Cemetery Improvement and Maintenance Scheme 2019 for noting by the members. The sum of €35,000 was allocated to 90 committees/groups.

The members welcomed the scheme but raised the following:

·         Scheme had a budget of €150,000 many years ago and should be substantially increases starting with next year’s budget.

·         Acknowledged the excellent and substantial work done by the voluntary cemetery committees throughout the county

·         Members mentioned works required in some cemeteries around the county.

·         Request that the CPG assess the funding when considering the Draft Budget

·         Where there is a protected structure in a graveyard, who is responsible for damage if it falls?

·         Who is responsible if branches of trees fall in cemeteries and damage headstones?

·         Can the allocations be confirmed earlier in the year?

·         Why is there an unequal distribution of funds per amount and MD?

The Director of Services confirmed that this is the amount as allocated in the Budget and it can be reviewed next year and the County is very appreciative of the work done by graveyard committees. He will revert to members regarding protected structures and cover for damages.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Connaughton

SECONDED by Cllr. Shanagher

It was AGREED to have a survey of all cemeteries completed in relation to emergency works required. The report to be submitted to the Council for consideration

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Cummins

SECONDED by Cllr. Crosby

It was AGREED to approve the Cemetery Improvement and Maintenance Scheme 2019

Mr. Martin Lydon presented for consideration of the members the Draft Traveller Accommodation Programme effective for a period of five years from 1^st July 2019 to 30^th June 2024. The report was prepared in accordance with the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998 programme. He outlined the consultation process, including the public consultation and details of the two submissions received. The Draft plan was considered by the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee and the Housing Strategic Committee on a number of occasions and is now recommended for approval by the Council.

In the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Cummins

SECONDED by Cllr. Crosby

It was AGREED to adopt the Draft Traveller Accommodation Programme 2019-2024

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor McDermott

SECONDED by Councillor Shanagher

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 No 10 comprising 0.2043 hA (0.5048 acres) at Ballyboughan Industrial Estate, Ballyboughan Td. Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

The person(s) from whom the land was acquired: Eircom Ltd., Harcourt Centre, 52 Harcourt St., Dublin 2.  Joseph Kelly, Tremane, Co. Roscommon

The person(s) to whom the land is to be disposed of:Figvale Ltd.

The consideration proposed in respect of the disposal: €35,000 plus VAT

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Cummins

            SECONDED by Councillor Murphy

It was AGREED to adopt the Roscommon County Council Draft Annual Report 2018

Mr. Martin Lydon informed the members that the Council is required to adopt a Scheme of Priorities for Affordable Dwelling Purchase Arrangements.

Mr. Greg O’Donnell, A/Senior Executive Officer gave the members an overview of the scheme of priorities and the methodology that will be applied to determine the order of priority to be accorded to eligible households where the demand for such arrangements exceeds the dwellings or resources available. In summary, the rankings on the priority list is dependent on type of dwelling deemed to adequately cater for accommodation needs. Where the number of applicants exceed the number of dwellings for sale, the local authority will give priority based on income, distance of travel to education and to work and finally the order in which the application was made.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Keogh

SECONDED by Cllr. Ward

It was AGREED to adopt the Draft Scheme of Priority for Affordable Dwelling Purchase Arrangements.

That Roscommon County Council declares a climate and bio-diversity emergency and establishes a committee to oversee the creation of a county climate and bio-diversity action plan which facilitates engagement from key community stakeholder groups, individuals and organisations who are active within the county and have a pertinent contribution to make to such a plan.

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply:

This motion requires a resolution of the Council

Cllr. Kilduff spoke on the motion and urged the Local Authority in Roscommon to take a lead in declaring the emergency as proposed in the motion. The importance of establishing a committee that to be effective will rely on the competencies of key community stakeholders who are experts in the area and the creation of an action plan owned by the community. The fact that this is a joint motion reflects the seriousness of the issue of climate change and the need for action now.

Cllr. Leyden said that the need for action is no longer a choice but a necessity and future generations have a right to a healthy environment. It is the duty of the Council to act in unison and declare a climate change and biodiversity emergency in County Roscommon and set about devising a constructive action plan. Cllr Leyden also spoke about the need to increase native tree planting in the county and proposed that the Council affiliate to the Tree Council of Ireland.

The members welcomed the motion and its considerable importance at this time. 

The Director of Services Liam Bergin welcomed the motion and proposed that the committee be set up as a sub-committee of the Environment SPC. He informed the members that the Draft Climate Change Adaptation Strategy would be soon presented to the Council for consideration.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Leyden

SECONDED by Cllr. Naughten

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council affiliate to the Tree Council of Ireland which will support Roscommon with increased native tree planting.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Kilduff

                SECONDED by Cllr. Leyden

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council declares a climate and bio-diversity emergency and establishes a committee to oversee the creation of a county climate change  and bio-diversity action plan which facilitates engagement from key community stakeholder groups, individuals and organisations who are active within the county and have a pertinent contribution to make to such a plan.

Funding for provision of Wifi

Mr Shane Tiernan referring to his announcement of funding of €15,000 for the provision of free wifi in Boyle at the previous meeting, informed members that additional funding had been granted for the provision of free wifi in 3 more towns in the County.

Boyle Town Clock.

Councillor John Cummins thanked Mr Michael Conlon and staff for the repair and restoration work which had been carried out on the Clock and the Clock Tower.

Funding for N5 Tulsk and N61

Councillor Valerie Byrne, referring to her previous representations seeking funding for improvement works West and North of Tulsk, requested an update on funding. Mr Michael Conlon stated that Transport Infrastructure Ireland was not providing funding this year for the locations mentioned, but had provided funding for improvement works on the N4 at Hughestown between Boyle and Carrick on Shannon. He suggested that funding may be available in 2020.

Road Works Programme 2019

Councillor Rachel Doherty complimented the Boyle MD staff on the volume of work carried out to date on the Road Works Programme for 2019 and lauded the fact that so many rural Local Roads were getting much needed attention.

Local Election May 24^th 2019

Members were unanimous in their good wishes to Councillor Rachel Doherty who was not contesting the forthcoming Local Elections on May 24^th.  Members thanked outgoing Councillor Doherty for her dedicated service to Boyle and Roscommon during her years as a Public Representative and lauded her talent, ability and genuine interest in working for the betterment of her constituents at all times.

Councillor Doherty thanked the members for their kind accolades and wished them well in the Elections on May 24^th.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor John Cummins

            SECONDED by Councillor Rachel Doherty

 It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of the Boyle MD meeting of 22^nd March 2019.

Votes of Sympathy.

Members passed a vote of Sympathy with the Brennan family, Fourmilehouse, Roscommon on the sad passing of Tracy Brennan.

Votes of Congratulations

Members congratulated Roscommon Herald and wished them continued success in their new offices in Roscommon Town.

Votes of Sympathy

Members expressed their sympathy with the Brennan Family, Trien, Castlerea on the death of Joseph Brennan, father in law of Christina Mc Hugh, Roscommon Herald.

Boyle Area Engineer Vacant Post.

In reply to enquiries from Councillor Valerie Byrne on when the vacant position of Area Engineer in Boyle would be filled, Mr Shane Tiernan said the position would be filled by June.

Rooskey Asylum Centre.

Members thanked Mr Shane Tiernan for his efforts to arrange a meeting with Department of Justice officials to discuss the situation regarding the Rooskey Asylum Centre.

They expressed dissatisfaction with the Department of Justice handling of the Rooskey Hotel/Asylum Centre situation and expressed their solidarity with the people of Rooskey who had been frustrated and mis-represented during the whole unfortunate debacle.

Mr Shane Tiernan acknowledging that the matter was sensitive and complicated said that it was nevertheless outside the remit of Roscommon County Council.

Boyle Town Improvements.

Members welcomed announcements by Mr Shane Tiernan of funding for projects as follows –

Streetscape Improvements Main Street, Boyle €140,000 secured under the Historic  Towns Initiative from Department of Rural Affairs.

EU Wifi Initiative - €15,000 with matched funding from Department of Communications for delivery of free Wifi and to be rolled out within nine months.

He also informed the meeting that design works were well underway on the Cycleway connecting Lough Key Forest Park and the old Royal Hotel site. He also stated that the Asbestos from the Royal Hotel site had been removed and that demolition works were expected to commence shortly on the rear of the building as outlined in the Boyle 2040 Plan.

In reply to enquiries from Councillor John Cummins Mr Shane Tiernan said that remedial works were in hand for the restoration of the Boyle Town Clock and Tower.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Rachel Doherty

            SECONDED by Councillor John Cummins

  It was AGREED to adopt the Minutes of the Boyle MD meeting held on 18^th January 2019

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Rachel Doherty

            SECONDED by Councillor John Cummins

  It was AGREED to adopt the Minutes of the Special Boyle MD meeting held on 21^st February 2019

Mr Eugene Dwyer, Senior Engineer presented the Boyle Municipal District Draft Road Works Programme for 2019

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor John Cummins

            SECONDED by Councillor Rachel Doherty,

It was   AGREED  to adopt the Road Works Programme 2019 as presented.

In Discussing the Draft Programme Councillors welcomed the wide spread of locations listed for either road re-surfacing or road restoration/strengthening and thanked the Engineering staff for their input to the Presentation.

Councillors then proceeded to highlight other various issues for consideration as follows:-

Councillor Valerie Byrne –

Referred to the condition of the N5 Jones to Scotts Pub section in need of urgent attention and requested clarification on the allocation of funding for same.

She welcomed the information that work was ready to proceed in Tulsk village when weather conditions were suitable.

Parking facilities and safety measures at Frenchpark National School.

At Michael Coyles, Kilglass lake, Rooskey - road is raised and needs attention.

Low cost safety measures needed at Ballyarden Cross roads – no sight line to Strokestown.

Entrance to Elphin from Shankhill needs speed controls as there is a school and 2 housing estates there.

Councillor Rachel Doherty –

Welcomed the allocation of funding for various roads especially in the Arigna and Gloria areas.

She referred to representations she had received for

(a)provision of a pedestrian crossing at Station Road, Cortober and

(b) Examination of sight lines at entrance to Tobar Phadraig Housing Estate, Termon Road, Boyle.

Councillor John Cummins –

Requested resurfacing of roads in the Plunkett Avenue and Termon Road, Boyle areas, and the Boyle to Ballyfarnon Road.

He expressed concern at the condition of the old fishing stand beside the Wooden Bridge, Boyle which it was agreed should be removed and replaced once ownership and responsibility for the structure can be established.

Councillor Liam Callaghan –

Raised the issue of the ownership of the access road to Kilcooley Cemetery and

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Valerie Byrne

            SECONDED by Councillor Liam Callaghan

It was AGREED that the road to Kilcooley Cemetery would be taken in charge by Roscommon County Council.

Cllr Callaghan also referred to representations he had received regarding safety issues to do with poles in the Grange Manor Estate.

He raised the matter of the need for parking facilities to be provided for School goers and Parishioners at Killina National School and R C Church.

Councillor Joe Murphy –

Requested that application for funding would be made under the Low Cost Accident or Clár Funding Schemes for improvement works on the road at Scramogue Church in the interests of road safety.

He called for re–alignment works to be carried out at Bumlin Bridge and the N5 at Scramogue.

He referred to sections of the old N5 which require hedgecutting and requested that this work would be carried out as soon as possible.

Councillor Michael Mulligan –

Referred to the problem of indiscriminate illegal dumping and suggested that the full force of the Litter Laws should be applied to the perpetrators to highlight the problem.

He requested that measures would be put in place to ensure that the Sewerage Disposal Lorries using the Cloonshanville Road should exit onto the N5 and not via Cloonshanville Road in the interests of road safety.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Joe Murphy

            SECONDED by Councillor Valerie Byrne

  It was AGREED to Declare Public the road located within the housing estate “Park Court”, Lisroyne, Strokestown, Co Roscommon pursuant to the provisions of Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Roads Regulations 1994, Part 2 and the Planning & Development Act 2000(as amended), Section 180.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Rachel Doherty

            SECONDED by Councillor John Cummins

  It was AGREED to Declare Public the road located within the Housing Development at “The Marina” Boyle, Co. Roscommon pursuant to the provisions of Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Roads Regulations 1994, Part 2 and the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended), Section 180.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Michael Mulligan

             SECONDED by Councillor John Cummins

It was AGREED to seek an urgent meeting with Department of Justice Officials to clarify its alleged  plansfor the accommodation of Asylum Seekers in a direct provision centre in the former Shannon Key West Hotel, Rooskey.

 It was also unanimously agreed that Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District members would be invited to attend the meeting when arranged.

Mr Shane Tiernan undertook to contact Department Officials with a view to securing a meeting as soon as possible as members re-iterated their concern at the urgency of the situation.

N5 UPGRADE WORKS

On the PROPOSAL  of Councillor Joe Murphy

              SECONDED by Councillor Valerie Byrne

It was AGREED to request that safety measures should be included in the design at Scramogue Cross. Councillor Valerie Beirne suggested that roundabouts should be considered for the Tulsk and Scramogue junctions.

PUBLIC LIGHTING

In response to an enquiry from Councillor John Cummins regarding replacement of amber public lights,  Mr Tiernan informed the meeting that RCC, with the assistance of grant aid of 30% per fitting from Transport Infrastructure Ireland, were in the process of gradually replacing the public lighting with LED fittings.

WINTER MAINTENANCE PROGRAMME.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Rachel Doherty

              SECONDED by Councillor Michael Mulligan,

It was AGREED to request the County Council to review its Winter Maintenance Gritting programme and to consider extending it during severe weather conditions.

 Mr Tiernan advised that the Winter Maintenance Programme had been adopted and thus the public could be sure of and aware of what roads are gritted, and it was not feasible to extend the gritting due to funding constraints.

Councillor Doherty suggested that Grit boxes could be deposited, by agreement with the local offices, at particularly steep locations for local use during inclement weather spells.

Councillor Valerie Byrne agreed and also requested that the Croghan/Elphin Road should be included in the gritting programme.

Roads

On the Proposal of Councillor Joe Murphy

             Seconded by Councillor Valerie Byrne

It was AGREED to request that signs would be erected on R371 in Kilglass near the football field to alert approaching traffic to the temporary congestion on match days.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Liam Callaghan

              SECONDED by Councillor Valerie Byrne

It was AGREED to request that the overlay works would be carried out as soon as possible on the Frenchpark/Tulsk road.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor Valerie Byrne

              SECONDED by Councillor Rachel Doherty,

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council should hire more staff if required in order to ensure the Road Works Programmes are completed by year end.

Shannon Key West Hotel, Rooskey.

Members expressed their dissatisfaction with the choice of location for accommodating large numbers of Asylum seekers where very limited services are available and decided to seek further information from the Department of Justice on the matter.

ROYAL HOTEL BOYLE.

In response to enquiries from Councillor John Cummins, Mr Shane Tiernan informed the meeting that the project was receiving full attention, that the normal timeline had to apply in appointing consultants, that Asbestos removal works would commence in the next few weeks and Demolition contractors would be appointed imminently.

Members welcomed this progress and agreed that the development was vital for the towns revival.

BOYLE WSS EXTENSION TO GRANGEMORE WSS.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor John Cummins

              SECONDED by Councillor Rachel Doherty

It was AGREED to seek re-instatement of the roads, in the Knockarush and Grange area, to an acceptable standard once the scheme is completed.

On the PROPOSAL of Councillor John Cummins.

             SECONDED by Councillor Valerie Byrne.

It was AGREED to adopt the Minutes of the Boyle Municipal District meeting of 12^th December 2018.

All of the members spoke and thanked the people who had voted for them, their campaign teams, and families. They expressed they sympathy to Cllr. McDermott and Byrne on their recent losses of their parents. They wished the incoming Cathaoirleach and Leas Cathaoirleach well in the coming term. They welcomed new faces on the Council and paid tribute to outgoing Councillor Connolly.

Other issues were raised as follows:

·         Disappointment of the Independent group that they were unable for lead the Council for the next five years, despite having ten non-party councillors elected by the people of Roscommon

·         66% of the vote in the county is represented by the Alliance

·         Need to listen to the issues that were raised on the doorsteps while canvassing

·         Concern about the conditions of the €100m Brexit beef bailout fund

·         Well done to the Returning Officer and staff of Roscommon County Council on how well the election process and count was managed.

·         Thanks to the local media for their coverage of the election.

·         Important that progress is made on the Fire Station and Rosalie Unit in Castlerea

·         Important for members to support the Cathaoirleach at events

·         Looking forward to the launch of the new tourism brand in King house in a couple of weeks

·         Welcome the inclusion of small towns and villages in a funding process

·         Of major concern is the decline of Rural Ireland.

·         The FF/FG alliance should be aware that there was a full government Department to come to Roscommon in decentralisation of government departments

·         Immediate areas to be addressed by the new council is job creation and innovation hubs

·         The Alliance programme does not include for increasing the numbers of outdoor staff in the Council

Cllrs. Marty McDermott and Valerie Byrne thanked everyone for their sympathies on their recent losses.

Cllr. Leyden stated that the Alliance, as part of their manifesto, will be bringing a motion to the June meeting to declare a climate and bio-diversity emergency and establish a committee to oversee the creation of a county climate and bio-diversity action. Cllr Kilduff stated that he has already submitted this motion for discussion.

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Waldron

           SECONDED by Cllr. Dineen

That a special meeting is convened to discuss bringing investment and jobs to county Roscommon and the decline of Rural Ireland.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Waldron be appointed a delegate to the Annual Conference of the Library Association of Ireland

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Fitzmaurice

          SECONDED by Councillor Crosby

And   RESOLVED that Councillor McDermott be appointed a delegate to the Annual Conference of the Library Association of Ireland.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Callaghan be appointed a delegate to the Annual Conference of the Library Association of Ireland.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Keogh

SECONDED by Cllr. Dineen

It was AGREED to nominate all of the elected members of Roscommon County Council to attend the Induction Seminar organised by the Association of Irish Local Government which will take place on Thursday 11^th July in Mullingar Park Hotel.

It was PROPOSED by  Councillor Cummins

          SECONDED by Councillor  Fallon

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Keogh be elected to the Udaras na hOllscoile Governing Authority, National University of Ireland Gaillimh.

The Cathaoirleach declared Councillor Keogh to be elected to the Udaras na hOllscoile Governing Authority, National University of Ireland Gaillimh

It was PROPOSED by  Councillor Fallon

          SECONDED by Councillor  Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Crosby be elected to the Western Inter County Railway Committee

The Cathaoirleach declared Councillor Crosby to be the elected member of the Western Inter-County Railway Committee.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Shanagher

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Dineen be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Shanagher, Kilduff and Connaughton

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Ward be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Dineen and Waldron.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Naughten

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Callaghan

          SECONDED by Councillor Keogh

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Naughten be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Murphy

          SECONDED by Councillor Callaghan

And   RESOLVED that Councillor McDermott be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Leyden

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Crosby be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee

The Cathaoirleach declared the following members be nominated to the Standing Orders Committee:- Councillors Ward, Dineen, Cummins, Naughten, McDermott and Crosby.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Shanagher

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Kilduff be nominated to the Rural Water Monitoring Committee

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Murphy

          SECONDED by Councillor Crosby

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be nominated to the Rural Water Monitoring Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor McDermott

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Callaghan be nominated to the Rural Water Monitoring Committee

The Cathaoirleach declared the following members be nominated to the Rural Water Monitoring Committee:- Councillors Kilduff, Cummins and Callaghan.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Waldron be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Kilduff be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Shanagher be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Dineen be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Ward be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Leyden be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Naughten be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Fitzmaurice be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Callaghan be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

The It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Murphy be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Crosby be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Fallon be elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee

Cathaoirleach declared Councillors Waldron, Kilduff, Shanagher, Dineen, Ward, Naughten, Fitzmaurice, Callaghan, Cummins, Fallon, Crosby, Leyden, and Murphy elected to the County Roscommon Joint Policing Committee.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Murphy

          SECONDED by Councillor Callaghan

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be nominated to the Roscommon County Council Audit Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Crosby

          SECONDED by Councillor Keogh

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Fallon be nominated to the Roscommon County Council Audit Committee

The Cathaoirleach declared the following to be nominated  to Roscommon County Council Audit Committee:- Councillors  Cummins and Fallon.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Naughten

And   RESOLVED that Councillor McDermott be elected to the Roscommon Comhairle na nOg Steering Committee.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Fallon

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Crosby be elected to the Roscommon Comhairle na nOg Steering Committee.

The Cathaoirleach declared Councillors McDermott and Crosby to be the elected members of the Roscommon Comhairle na nOg Steering Committee.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Waldron be nominated to the Road Safety Together Committee.

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Naughten

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Murphy be nominated to the Road Safety Together Committee.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Fallon

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Naughten be nominated to the Road Safety Together Committee.

The Cathaoirleach declared the following members be nominated to the Road Safety Together Committee:- Councillors Waldron, Murphy and Naughten

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Dineen

          SECONDED by Councillor Shanagher

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Ward be appointed to the Regional Health Forum West

In accordance with the Grouping System of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor McDermott

          SECONDED by Councillor Callaghan

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be appointed to the Regional Health Forum West

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Leyden

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Crosby  be appointed to the Regional Health Forum West

The Cathaoirleach declared the following members appointed to the Regional Health Forum West: Councillors Ward, Cummins and Criosby.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Shanagher be appointed to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.

In accordance with the Grouping System of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Fitzmaurice

          SECONDED by Councillor Callaghan

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be appointed to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Fallon

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Crosby  be appointed to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee.

The Cathaoirleach declared the following members appointed to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee:-  Councillors  Shanagher, Cummins and Crosby

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Connaughton

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Kilduff be appointed as a member of the Local Community Development Committee

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor McDermott

          SECONDED by Councillor Callaghan

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Fitzmaurice be appointed as a member of the Local Community Development Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Keogh

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Fallon be appointed as a member of the Local Community Development Committee

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Fallon

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Cummins be elected to the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA)

The Cathaoirleach declared Cllr. John Cummins to be the elected member of the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA).

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Callaghan be elected delegate to the Annual General Meeting of the Library Association of Ireland.

The Cathaoirleach declared Councillor Callaghan to be the elected delegate to the Annual General Meeting of the Library Association of Ireland.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Naughten

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Keogh be elected to represent Roscommon County Council at the Annual General Meeting of the Board of Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances Ltd.

The Cathaoirleach declared Councillor Keogh to be elected to represent Roscommon County Council at the Annual General Meeting of the Board of Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances Ltd.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Creaton

          SECONDED by Councillor Connolly

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Shanagher be nominated to the Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board.

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Cummins

          SECONDED by Councillor Crosby

And   RESOLVED that Councillor McDermott be nominated to the Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Keogh

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Fallon be nominated to the Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board.

The Cathaoirleach declared the following members nominated to the Galway/Roscommon Education & Training Board:-Councillors Shanagher,  McDermott and Fallon.   

It was PROPOSED by  Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor  Fallon

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Joe Murphy be elected to the County Roscommon Heritage Forum.

The Cathaoirleach declared Councillor Joe Murphy to be the elected member of the County Roscommon Heritage Forum.

It was PROPOSED by  Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor   Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Orla Leyden elected to the Northern and Western Regional Assembly.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

And   RESOLVED that Councillor John Naughten elected to the Northern and Western Regional Assembly.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

           SECONDED by Councillor  Waldron

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Connaughton be the voting delegate at the Annual Conference and also be a  permanent delegate to the Standing  Policy Council of the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) for the full five year term.

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Keogh

           SECONDED by Councillor  Crosby

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Orla Leyden be the voting delegate at the Annual Conference and also be a permanent delegate to the Standing  Policy Council of the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) for the full five year term.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

           SECONDED by Councillor  Fallon

And   RESOLVED that Councillor Liam Callaghan be the voting delegate at the Annual Conference and also be a permanent delegate to the Standing  Policy Council of the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) for the full five year term.

The Meetings Administrator stated that the following new Strategic Policy Committees are proposed for the 2019-2024 scheme and the chairs would be confirmed for each committee by the Corporate Policy Group.

·         Economic Development and Enterprise Support including Tourism, Culture and the Libraries.

·         Housing and ICT

·         Roads, Transportation and Emergency Services

·         Planning, Environment, Corporate and Governance.

It was  PROPOSED by  Councillor  Ward

                SECONDED  by Councillor  Waldron

And  RESOLVED  that  Councillor Nigel Dineen be elected as Chairperson of a  Strategic Policy Committee in accordance with the new SPC  Scheme.

In accordance with the grouping system of Councillors Ward, Connaughton, Shanagher, Waldron, Kilduff and Dineen.

It was  PROPOSED by  Councillor Cummins

                SECONDED  by Councillor  Keogh

And      RESOLVED  that Councillors  Orla Leyden  be elected as Chairperson of a Strategic Policy Committee in accordance with the  new SPC  Scheme.

It was  PROPOSED by  Councillor  Leyden

                SECONDED  by Councillor  Keogh

And      RESOLVED  that Councillor John Cummins be elected as Chairperson of a Strategic Policy Committee in accordance with the  new SPC  Scheme.

It was  PROPOSED by  Councillor Leyden

                SECONDED  by Councillor Keogh

And      RESOLVED   that Councillor John Naughten  be elected as Chairperson of  a Strategic Policy Committee in accordance with the  new SPC  Scheme.

The Cathaoirleach invited proposals for the position of Leas-Cathaoirleach

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Naughten

          SECONDED by Councillor Cummins

That Councillor Liam Callaghan be elected Leas-Cathaoirleach.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Waldron

  That Councillor Donal Kilduff be elected Leas- Cathaoirleach.

A vote was taken on the election of Cathaoirleach which resulted as follows:-

VOTING FOR THE ELECTION OF COUNCILLOR CALLAGHAN:-  Councillors Callaghan, Crosby, Cummins, Fallon, Fitzmaurice, Keogh, Leyden, McDermott, Murphy, Naughten (10)

VOTING FOR THE ELECTION OF COUNCILLOR KILDUFF: Councillors Byrne, Connaughton, Dineen, Kilduff, Mulligan, Shanagher, Waldron, Ward (8)

Cllr. Liam Callaghan was deemed elected as Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council by the Cathaoirleach.

Cllr. Callaghan thanked his proposer and seconder and will work closely with the Cathaoirleach to ensure that the Council is led with honour and dignity. He said he is honoured to be elected to this position and is looking forward to working with his fellow Councillors and the Executive to deal with issues raised on the doorsteps by the people are listened to and make sure their needs and expectations are met.

The Chief Executive invited proposals for the position of Cathaoirleach

.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Ward

          SECONDED by Councillor Dineen

  That Councillor Kathleen Shanagher be elected Cathaoirleach.

It was PROPOSED by Councillor Leyden

          SECONDED by Councillor Fallon

 That Councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice be elected Cathaoirleach.

A vote was taken on the election of Cathaoirleach which resulted as follows:-

VOTING FOR THE ELECTION OF COUNCILLOR SHANAGHER:-  Councillors Byrne, Connaughton, Dineen, Kilduff, Mulligan, Shanagher, Waldron, Ward (8)

VOTING FOR THE ELECTION OF COUNCILLOR FITZMAURICE:-  Councillors Callaghan, Crosby, Cummins, Fallon, Fitzmaurice, Keogh, Leyden, McDermott, Murphy, Naughten (10)

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice was deemed elected as Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council by the Meetings Administrator.

Cllr. Fitzmaurice thanked his proposer and seconder for the nomination and said he was very proud to be voted by his fellow councillors as first citizen of the county. He represents a new Alliance in the Council that has agreed a programme of works for the coming five year term that will focus on economic development, communities and enterprise.  He outlined a number of different areas that he would prioritise during his term of office as Cathaoirleach including:

·         Addressing the replacement of storage heating in local authority housing

·         Prioritising the funding of roads that are in most need of repair

·         Economic Development bringing jobs to the county and progress on the innovation centres in Roscommon town and Monksland

·         The development of tourism

·         Planning and the need to allow the building of housing in rural areas of the county

·         The introduction of bye-laws to deal with illegal dumping

·         The reopening of Castlerea Fire Station

·         The retaining of the Rosalie Care Unit as a care home in Castlerea

Finally the Cathaoirleach thanked his family for their support, the members and the executive of the Council as he looks forward to working with everyone for the betterment of the County  in the year ahead.