There were no Disclosures of Conflict of Interest declared by Members.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Fallon

            SECONDED by Cllr. Callaghan

It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of the Annual Meeting of 22.06.2026.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Conboy

            SECONDED by Cllr. Kelly

It was AGREED to adopt the minutes of the Plenary Meeting of 22.06.2026.

There were no matters arising.

·        Management Report for Q2 2026 noted.

Noted as circulated in advance of the meeting.

·         Section 22 of the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998 as amended - Making of Appointments to the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee (LTACC)

Director of Services, Mr. Chris Flynn, advised that the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee (LTACC) is a statutory consultative committee established under the Housing Traveller Accommodation Act 1998. The Committee's role is to advise the Council on matters relating to the provision and management of accommodation for members of the Traveller community, including the preparation, implementation and review of the Traveller Accommodation Programme. The LTACC also serves as an important forum for liaison and consultation between members of the Traveller community, Elected Members and Council officials.

Mr. Flynn requested Members’ approval for the appointment of Council officials and representatives to serve on the committee.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Crosby

            SECONDED by Cllr. Byrne

It was AGREED to approve the following members and representatives:

·         Chris Flynn, Director of Services

·         Ann McHugh, Senior Executive Officer

·         Vincent Walsh, Senior Executive Engineer

·         Martina Flanagan, Administrative Officer

·         Jeanette Dolan, Housing Liaison Officer

·         Gail Murray, Project Co-ordinator Roscommon Traveller Health Project

·         John Ward, Representative of the Traveller Community

·         John McDonagh, Representative of the Traveller Community

The Annual Service Delivery Plan 2026 was noted.

·        Update on migration to Voter.ie

Director of Services, Ms. Caitlín Conneely, introduced a presentation on the implementation of Voter.ie, the new national electoral registration system established under the Electoral Reform Act 2022. She advised that this represents the most significant reform of electoral registration in recent years.

Administrative Officer, Ms. Karen Hanley, informed Members that the new system modernises the voter registration process through online applications, stronger identity verification measures, pre-registration for 16 and 17-year-olds, and the creation of a single national electoral registration platform.

Ms. Hanley outlined the significant preparatory work undertaken by staff since January 2025 including extensive data cleansing, the removal of duplicate and deceased electors, and the standardisation of address and polling information.

Registration activity in 2025 resulted in 1,455 new electors being added to the register, 1,133 elector records being updated, and 2,253 records being removed as part of ongoing data quality improvements.

Ms. Hanley also noted the range of voter registration awareness initiatives carried out across the county, including school registration events, fieldworker engagement, library information days, direct communications and social media campaigns.

She advised that Roscommon successfully migrated to Voter.ie in July 2026 as part of the national rollout programme. The new system provides improved services for voters, enhanced data quality controls for local authorities, and more accurate and consistent electoral registers.

It was noted that the focus will now be on maintaining register accuracy, supporting ongoing voter registration activity, and continuing public awareness campaigns to promote the new Voter.ie platform.

Members thanked Ms. Hanley for the comprehensive presentation and raised a number of queries and observations, including:

·         The significant improvements delivered by the new system.

·         Complements to all staff involved for the significant amount of work undertaken.

·         Whether the electoral register could be linked to death registration records to prevent polling cards being issued to deceased persons.

·         Clarification on registration deadlines in advance of electoral events.

·         Concerns regarding inaccurate address information on the register.

·         The reasons for the high number of elector records removed during the update process.

·         Whether there was potential for collaboration between the electoral register and An Post Geo Directory.

·         Whether the new system would make first-time voter registration easier.

·         Whether the introduction of Voter.ie could lead to electronic voting in the future.

In response, Ms. Hanley advised that:

·         The system is linked to death registration data to identify potential deceased electors; however, all removals must be verified by staff.

·         Registration deadlines in advance of electoral events are determined nationally and will apply across all local authorities.

·         Register accuracy is monitored on an ongoing basis, and electors are encouraged to keep their details up to date.

·         The high number of records removed reflects the extensive data cleansing undertaken prior to migration, including the removal of duplicate and deceased records.

·         Electoral register data may only be used for electoral purposes, and the local authority has no authority to require data-sharing arrangements with external organisations.

·         The new system simplifies voter registration while retaining paper-based application options.

·         Electronic voting is a national policy matter and is outside  ...  view the full minutes text for item 104.26

·        Proposed acquisition of property in Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon to meet the social housing applicants’ needs.

Director of Services, Mr. Chris Flynn, advised that Roscara Housing Association CLG are seeking a loan of €268,500 for the acquisition of a 4-bed detached bungalow at 8 The Oaks, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon for the purpose of assisting the provision of housing accommodation under Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992. He requested Members’ approval for the loan to allow the project to proceed.

Members welcomed the proposal and noted the importance of securing suitable accommodation for persons with disabilities, given the limited availability of such housing.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Fitzmaurice

           SECONDED by Cllr. Callaghan

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council approve the making of a loan of €268,500 to Roscara Housing Association CLG, Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Town pursuant to the provisions fo Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992 and in accordance with the terms of Circular/Memorandum VHU2/02 and Circular 11/25 for the acquisition of 4-bed detached bungalow at 8 The Oaks, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon to meet needs of social housing applicants with a disability.

That Roscommon County Council calls on the Minister for Social Protection and Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to review the current eligibility criteria for CE Schemes, with particular regard to age limits, to allow participants to remain on CE Schemes up to the age of 70 years where they wish to do so.

That Roscommon County Council calls on the Minister for Social Protection and Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to review the current eligibility criteria for CE Schemes, with particular regard to age limits, to allow participants to remain on CE Schemes up to the age of 70 years where they wish to do so.

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply: This motion requires a resolution of the Council.

Cllr. Byrne outlined the importance of CE Schemes to towns and villages throughout the county and expressed concern regarding the potential impact of a reduction in participant numbers. She stated that the cost of extending the age limit would be relatively low and would deliver significant benefits. While a review of CE Schemes is currently underway, she considered that this issue should be prioritised to avoid the loss of experienced participants.

Members expressed broad support for the motion and highlighted:

·         The difficulty in recruiting and retaining participants for CE Scheme positions.

·         The low rate of pay associated with the schemes.

·         The vital role CE participants play in maintaining public realm projects and community amenities, including Tidy Towns initiatives and cemeteries.

·         The benefits of allowing older participants to remain active, particularly as life expectancy and health continue to improve.

·         The need for CE Scheme eligibility to align with legislation permitting individuals to work until the age of 70.

·         The positive contribution of CE Schemes in addressing rural isolation and supporting labour activation.

·         Calls to extend similar provisions to Rural Social Scheme (RSS) participants.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Byrne

           SECONDED by Cllr. Fallon

It was AGREED to call on the Minister for Social Protection and Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to review the current eligibility criteria for CE Schemes, with particular regard to age limits, to allow participants to remain on CE Schemes up to the age of 70 years where they wish to do so.

That Roscommon County Council, in consultation with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, undertake a review of directional signage throughout County Roscommon to provide clear and consistent signing to Ireland West Airport, recognising its strategic importance to the economic, tourism and transport development of the region. The review should also identify opportunities to provide heritage and tourism signage on route leaving the airport along the old N5 corridor, highlighting key visitor attractions including Rathcroghan, Percy French’s birthplace, the National Famine Museum, and Tarmonbarry on the River Shannon, thereby encouraging visitors to explore and support the towns, villages and businesses along this important route.

That Roscommon County Council, in consultation with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, undertake a review of directional signage throughout County Roscommon to provide clear and consistent signing to Ireland West Airport, recognising its strategic importance to the economic, tourism and transport development of the region. The review should also identify opportunities to provide heritage and tourism signage on route leaving the airport along the old N5 corridor, highlighting key visitor attractions including Rathcroghan, Percy French’s birthplace, the National Famine Museum, and Tarmonbarry on the River Shannon, thereby encouraging visitors to explore and support the towns, villages and businesses along this important route.

The Meetings Administrator read the following Reply:

Roscommon County Council recognises the strategic importance of Ireland West Airport, Knock to the economic, tourism and transport development of Roscommon, the western region and internationally.

Similarly, the importance of cultural heritage and other tourist attractions to the economic, social and community development of the County cannot be underestimated.

The provision of tourism and destination, directional and confirmatory/ information signage along both national and non-national roads is a matter that merits consideration in Roscommon and in most counties.

Roscommon County Council, with our partners in Transport Infrastructure Ireland and other organisations including the Department of Transport, Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Failte Ireland, will seek funding to review the current position regarding signage to Ireland West Airport and the principal tourist destinations with a view to updating current signage as appropriate.

Signage, in accordance with the Traffic Signs Manual and the Policy on the Provision of Tourist & Leisure Signage on National Roads, is included as part of the new N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road Project and includes for Knock Airport and the main tourist attractions along and near the route.

Cllr. Crosby reiterated his motion, stating that the proximity of the county to an international airport presents a significant opportunity for tourism growth and that improved signage could be delivered at relatively low cost while having a substantial positive impact.

Members expressed strong support for the motion and highlighted its potential benefits for tourism, particularly with the progressing N5 road project.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Crosby,

           SECONDED by Cllr. Frain

It was AGREED to support the motion.

I am calling on Roscommon County Council to write to Uisce Éireann requesting a review of water pressure valves recently installed in parts of the county. This is causing significant disruption to household technology and resulting in increased costs on households due to low water pressure. 

I am calling on Roscommon County Council to write to Uisce Éireann (UE) requesting a review of water pressure valves which were recently installed in parts of the county. This is causing significant disruption to household technology and resulting in increased costs on households due to low water pressure. 

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply: This motion requires a resolution of the Council.

Cllr. Kelly advised that the issue is affecting a number of areas in South Roscommon and has resulted in excessive pressure on plumbing systems, leading to damage to household appliances. She noted that while pressure readings recorded during Uisce Éireann inspections often fall within acceptable ranges, longer term monitoring indicates that water pressure levels are frequently below what is required. She further stated that the issue appears particularly prevalent where water supplies are shared with farm connections.

Members supported the motion and raised the following points:

• Consideration should be given to providing redress where appliances have been damaged as a result of low water pressure.
• Concerns were expressed regarding the effectiveness of Uisce Éireann's centralised reporting system, particularly in dealing with smaller-scale emergencies in rural areas.
• The age and condition of existing water infrastructure was highlighted, with members noting the need for ongoing repairs and investment.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Kelly

           SECONDED by Cllr. McDermott

It was AGREED to call on Roscommon County Council to write to Uisce Éireann requesting a review of water pressure valves which were recently installed in parts of the county. This is causing significant disruption to household technology and resulting in increased costs on households due to low water pressure. 

Notice of motion calling on the Government and Minister for Housing to fully fund the purchase of houses under 'the cost rental scheme' by local authorities . The cost rental scheme is available to local authorities at present to help individuals and Families above the income threshold get rental accommodation but unviable under its current terms and conditions. 

Notice of motion calling on the Government and Minister for Housing to fully fund the purchase of houses under 'the cost rental scheme' by local authorities. The cost rental scheme is available to local authorities at present to help individuals and families above the income threshold get rental accommodation but unviable under its current terms and conditions. 

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply: This motion requires a resolution of the Council.

Cllr. Fitzmaurice advised that a cohort of individuals and families earn above the income threshold for social housing support but continue to face significant difficulties accessing affordable housing. He noted that while the Cost Rental Scheme is intended to assist households on moderate incomes, uptake by local authorities has been limited due to the requirement to partially finance acquisitions through borrowing, unlike social housing developments which are fully funded by Government. He queried how many local authorities have availed of the scheme.

Members expressed support for the motion and highlighted:

• The anomaly whereby households above the social housing income threshold continue to experience significant housing affordability challenges.
• Concerns that the current system may discourage employment progression.
• The increasing difficulty faced by households on modest incomes in securing suitable accommodation.
• The potential of the Cost Rental Scheme to address housing need if fully funded.
• The wider challenges within the housing market and the need for comprehensive reform.

Cllr. Fitzmaurice thanked Members for their support and requested that correspondence to the Department include a query on the number of local authorities that have availed of the scheme. He also requested that the motion be circulated to all local authorities.

Director of Services, Mr. Chris Flynn, advised that he was unaware of the number of local authorities directly participating in the scheme outside of arrangements involving Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs). He noted that significant risks associated with the current funding model would need to be addressed before Roscommon County Council could consider direct delivery of cost rental housing, although the Council remains open to working in partnership with AHBs in this area.

Nothing further for discussion.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Callaghan

            SECONDED by Cllr. McDermott

It was AGREED to adopt the list of payments for training and conferences as circulated.

Congratulations were extended to the Mayo senior football team on their All-Ireland success.

Sympathies were extended to the Allen family, Strokestown, on the passing of John and the Moylan family, Ballinlough, on the passing of Ann.

North West Regional Assembly (NWRA)

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Duffy

           SECONDED by Cllr. Conboy

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council write to NWRA to request a presentation of their work, in particular on the Regional Spatial Economic Strategy.

Local Democracy Task Force

Cllr. Brennan advised Members that the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) had recently highlighted the publication of the Local Democracy Task Force Final Report and Implementation Plan. He encouraged Members to attend the upcoming AILG webinar and Autumn Seminar, at which the report and its recommendations would be discussed and Members would have an opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session.

Castlerea Rose Festival

Cllr. Fitzmaurice invited Members and the public to attend the Castlerea Rose Festival, which was taking place during the week.

Local Link – South Roscommon

Cllr. Callaghan advised Members of discussions at a recent Local Link meeting regarding the lack of public transport services in parts of South Roscommon. He noted that a proposal is being considered for a new three or four-day return service linking Roscommon, Athleague, Four Roads, Ballyforan, Dysart, Brideswell and Athlone. He encouraged Members to raise the proposal with Ministers and senior public representatives to support its progression.

Standing Orders Committee

Cllr. Crosby advised that he would be requesting a meeting of the Standing Orders Committee to discuss issues relating to third party reporting of Council meetings.