5th February 2020

Sceidéal Cruinnithe

DÓ: GACH BALL DE CHOISTE CEANNTAIR TOGHCHANNACH NA GLEANNTAÍ

A Comhairleoir,

Please note the times for meetings that are scheduled on February 11th are as follows:

10.00 am Islands Committee Meeting

11.00 am Municipal District Meeting

14.30 pm CFRAM Workshop – Flood Relief Schemes

Mise le meas,

______Éamonn de Brún Area Manager Housing & Corporate Manager

MINUTES OF MEETING OF GLENTIES MUNICIPAL DISTRICT COMMITTEE

HELD ON 14th JANUARY 2020 IN DUNGLOE PUBLIC SERVICE CENTRE ______

MEMBERS PRESENT: Cllr. John Sheamais Ó Fearraigh (Cathaoirleach) Cllr. Noreen McGarvey (Leas Cathaoirleach) Cllr. Michael McClafferty Cllr. Michéal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig Cllr. Anthony Molloy Cllr. Marie Therese Gallagher

OFFICIALS PRESENT: Michael McGarvey, A/Director Water & Environment Eamonn Brown – Area Manager, Housing & Corporate Brendan McFadden – S.E.E. Area Manager, Roads & Transportation Charles Sweeney – Administrative Officer, Community Development Killian Smith – Planning Enforcement David Friel – Coastal Officer Michael Rowsome – SSO, Corporate & Housing Service

GMD 01/20 Vote of Sympathy

A vote of sympathy was extended to Cllr. Anthony Molloy and the Molloy family on the tragic death of Mary Ellen Molloy.

A minutes silence in memory of Mary Ellen was observed by all in attendance.

GMD 02/20 Minutes of Glenties Municipal District Meeting

On the proposal of Cllr. McGarvey, seconded by Cllr. Molloy, the minutes of the Glenties Municipal District meeting held on the 12th of November 2019 were agreed.

GMD 03/20 Workshops

The Committee noted the report from the Workshop held on the 12th of November 2019 in relation to Island funding.

GMD 04/20 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

4.1 Reports

Members noted the reports circulated with the agenda in relation to the following community development activities:

 Public Participation Network  Gaelfit  Ranganna Gaeilge  YOURS Project  Donegal Youth Council  Pride of Place

4.2 Donegal Choir of Ages – Ceol le Chéile

Cllr. Ó Fearraigh commended the success of the intergenerational choir which was established as part of the Donegal Age Friendly strategy. The Community Development Administrative Officer informed the Committee that the choir won a National Age Friendly Recognition award in November 2019 and have been shortlisted for an All Ireland Community & Council award to be held on the 15th of February 2020. 4.3 Development Fund Initiative 2020

The Community Development Administrative Officer informed Members that the closing date for receipt of completed applications is 4 p.m. Tuesday, 4th February 2020. The DFI Fund is available to support initiatives in various forms of development, including cultural, heritage, social and economic to benefit local communities, areas and groups throughout the county.

The Community Development Administrative Officer responded to Members queries in relation to the operation and administration of the Scheme and undertook to schedule a DFI workshop on the 10th of February.

4.4 Tourism

Cllr. Ó Fearraigh requested the Council to promote tourism and highlighted the necessity to boost tourism in the Creeslough area. Cllr. Ó Fearraigh informed the Committee of the upcoming anniversary of the Creeslough Viaduct Disaster and the necessity to mark this event with an appropriate project. Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig requested the Council to source funding to rebuild the viaducts as an iconic infrastructural structure.

The Community Development Administrative Officer undertook to relay the suggested recommendations to officials involved in the Letterkenny to Burtonport Greenway Project.

05/20 ENVIRONMENT

5.1 Waste and Litter Management

Members noted the reports circulated with the agenda from the Waste Awareness and Waste Regulation Officers in relation to: (1) Christmas Recycling Campaigns (2) Litter statistics (3) National Waste Enforcement Priorities 2020

In response to a query from Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig regarding the prevalence of dumping in the Glen in proximity to Pobal Scoil Ghaoth Dobhair, the Coastal Officer undertook to liaise with the Litter Warden in this regard.

Cllr. McClafferty requested the Council to increase the frequency of emptying of bring bank facilities particularly during holiday weekends.

Cllr. Mc Garvey asked for an update on recommendations to increase opening hours in the Dungloe Recycling Centre.

Cllr. Molloy expressed frustration at the ongoing delay in locating bring banks in Leitirmacaward.

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig requested an increased level of recycling service in the Industrial Estate in Gweedore, to accommodate communities outside the Rosses, and also requested provision of paper and plastic recycling facilities.

The Coastal Officer and Director of Environment informed the Committee that:  Paper and plastic recycling facilities are provided by private collectors and that current policy prohibits acceptance of plastic by local authorities.  The Council will liaise with Bryson regarding an extension of opening hours in Dungloe.  The Environment Service will prioritise the provision of recycling facilities in Leitirmacaward on agreement of a suitable site.

On the proposal of Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig, seconded by Cllr. Ó Fearraigh, the Committee agreed to write to the Environment SPC to amend current policy to reflect the requirements of communities seeking paper and plastic recycling facilities.

5.2 Coastal Management

The Committee welcomed the reports circulated with the agenda and presented by the Coastal Officer in relation to:

 Completion of upgrade works at the Arranmore Public Convenience  A clean coasts roadshow scheduled for 15.2.2020 in the Annagry Community Hall.  Completion of repair work to the beach access at Port Arthur.

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig and Cllr. Ó Fearraigh highlighted incidents of flooding at Magheragallen and Cotteen respectively.

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig requested the Council to seek additional funding to include above locations in the coastal erosion study.

The Coastal Officer also confirmed that the Council are currently working on the damaged boardwalk in Maghery as highlighted by Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig.

5.3 Dumped Tar

In response to concerns expressed by Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig regarding the proliferation of dumped tar throughout the County, the Environment Director requested the submission of relevant locations so that the Council can execute an anti-dumping initiative and prosecute offenders. The Roads Manager clarified that the Council do not deposit tar on roadsides on completion of roadworks.

Cllr. McClafferty recommended that the Council insert a specific clause in contracts with private roadwork contractors to prevent the roadside disposal of tar.

5.4 Irish Water

Cllr. Ó Fearraigh highlighted continual water line bursts in Curransport, Meenacladdy, Gweedore, Derryconnor and Glasserchoo and requested that Irish Water attend a Municipal District meeting. Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig emphasised the necessity for Irish Water to liaise with the Council in advance of any works. The Environment Director undertook to liaise with Irish Water to ascertain their 2020 work programme.

GMD 06/20 PLANNING SERVICES

6.1 Development Applications

Members noted the report circulated with the Agenda and presented by the Planner in relation to planning statistics for the period ended 30th November 2019. 6.2 Enforcement

In response to a query from Cllr. Ó Fearraigh regarding 172 no. outstanding enforcement cases on record since 2012, the Planner advised that the enforcement unit were under resourced for a lengthy period and that cases are often before the courts for a number of years.

6.3 Planning Clinics

The Planner informed Members that planning clinics are scheduled in the Dungloe Office on 29th January, 12th and 26th February and 11th and 25th of March 2020.

GMD 07/20 ROADS & TRANSPORTATION

7.1 National Roads Office

Members discussed the report from (Fergus Towey, SEE), circulated with the Agenda and presented by the Area Roads Manager in respect of:

 2020 PARR Programme – 3 km Crolly to Louganure.  Expected commencement of construction during 2020 of the N56 Dungloe to Cloghbolie.  Ongoing progression of detailed design and tender documentation for the N56 Letterilly to Glenties section.  Ongoing land acquisition in relation to N56 Dungloe to Glenties.  Development of a Dungloe traffic management plan.  N56 Cycle track progress.  Update on Arts funding for green area in Leitirrmacaward.

7.2 Road Maintenance

The Committee highlighted the following maintenance requirements throughout the MD:

 Safety Schemes  Bridge Maintenance  Potholes  Drainage and flooding  Hedgecutting  Signposting  Road Widening requirements  Gritting programme  Public lighting

The Roads Manager undertook to discuss all issues raised at the upcoming Workshop on 16th January 2020 in the context of expenditure of 2020 maintenance monies.

7.3 Island Works

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig requested the Council to: (i) write to Minister Kyne regarding the status of additional funding sought during the meeting held in Gaoth Dobhair on October 25th and (ii) status of the request to provide a new boat for Tory Islanders.

GMD 08/20 HOUSING AND BUILDING

8.1 Housing Grants

Members welcomed the report circulated previously and presented by the Housing Manager in relation to the status of the :  Housing Aid for Older People Grants  Housing Adaptation Grants  Mobility Aids Grants The Housing Manager informed the Committee that updated guidelines in relation to Housing Grants are awaited from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

8.2 Casual Vacancies

The Committee noted the report in relation to the status of casual vacancies as at the 6th of January 2020 circulated with the Agenda and presented by the Housing Manager.

8.3 Vacant Houses

Cllr. McClafferty recommended that the Council liaise with the owners of derelict houses to ascertain the possibility of acquisition and to return the vacant properties to productive use.

8.4 Clós Naomh Chonaill – Glenties

The Housing Manager updated Members in relation to ongoing work by the Director of Housing to resolve Health and Safety issues to expedite the appointment of a contractor to carry out necessary works.

8.5 Maintenance

In response to a query from Cllr. McGarvey, the Housing Manager clarified that the Council upgrade Windows and Doors in Social Housing units via a departmental retrofitting scheme.

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig suggested that all housing units should be soundproofed and the Housing Manager undertook to liaise with relevant officials in this regard.

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig requested the Housing Service to address:

 Pothole damage in Clós Naomh Dúigh, Annagry and  Flooding in the Cois Cuain estate.

8.6 HAP Scheme

In response to a query from Cllr. McClafferty regarding the refusal of landlords to accept tenants in receipt of housing assistance payments, the Area Manager advised that Landlords are legally obliged to accept HAP tenants and to submit relevant details to the Housing Service for follow up.

8.7 Capital Schemes

The Housing Manager informed Members that a response is awaited from the Department regarding the appointment of a contractor to advance the ‘Parents and Friends Scheme’ in Meenmore.

The Housing Manager undertook to liaise with Clúid and Respond, Approved Housing Bodies, in relation to provision of accommodation in Dungloe and confirmed that the closing date for receipt of tenders in respect of provision of 4 no. houses in Dunfanaghy is the 31st January.

Cllr. Gallagher expressed frustration and annoyance at the lack of information and progress regarding the status of the capital programme in the Municipal District. Cllr. Gallagher requested the relocation of Housing Capital Staff to the Dungloe PSC on a short term basis, the attendance of Housing Capital staff at the next Municipal District meeting and the scheduling of a special meeting to enable Members to express their concerns to relevant officials. Cllr. Ó Fearraigh requested information and an update on acquisition budgets and capital plans for 2020 and 2021.

The Housing Manager informed Members of a recent meeting with Housing Construction and agreed to liaise with the Divisional Manager regarding Members concerns.

8.8 Municipal District Meeting Schedule

Members agreed that Municipal District meetings will be held as follows:

Meeting Schedule 2020 Month Municipal Island District Committee February 11th 11th March (G-Teic 10th – Údarás) April 7th 7th May (AGM) 12th June 9th 9th (AGM) July 14th September 8th October 13th 13th November 10th

Cllr. Ó Fearraigh also advised Members that the March meeting will be held in G-Teic Gaoth Dobhair following an invitation from Údarás na Gaeltachta.

8.9 Economic Development Directorate

The Housing/Corporate Manager informed the Committee that senior members of the Directorate will on a cyclical basis, attend and report on the respective Economic Development Divisions activities.

8.10 Reception

On the proposal of Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig, seconded by Cllr. McClafferty, the Committee agreed to host a reception in honour of Pádraig Ó Baoghaill, a Ranafast native, historian and short story writer.

Cllr. Gallagher requested a Workshop to discuss the procedures in relation to the hosting of receptions.

Cllr. Mac Giolla Easbuig expressed contentment with the current arrangements and deemed a workshop as unnecessary. The Housing Corporate Manager clarified that budgetary resources can only facilitate one reception annually.

THIS CONCLUDED THE BUSINESS OF THE MEETING.

REPORT FROM WORKSHOP OF GLENTIES MUNICIPAL DISTRICT COMMITTEE HELD ON 14th January 2020 IN DUNGLOE PSC

Members present: Cllr. John Sheamais Ó Fearraigh (Cathaoirleach) Cllr. Noreen McGarvey Cllr. Michael McClafferty Cllr. Anthony Molloy Cllr. Marie Therese Gallagher Cllr. Michéal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig

Officials present: Michael McGarvey –A/Director Water & Environment Service Eamonn Brown – Area Manager, Housing & Corporate Brendan McFadden – SEE, Roads Manager David Friel – Coastal Officer Paul Kelly – Senior Executive Planner – Regeneration & Development Team Ruth Diver – Executive Planner – Regeneration & Development Team Monica O Donnell – Assistant Staff Officer – Regeneration & Development Team Sinéad McClafferty – Assistant Planner Michael Rowsome - S.S.O Housing & Corporate

Others in attendance: Greg Smeaton – MH Associates Colm McEldowney – MH Associates

1. Rural Regeneration and Development Fund

Members noted the report regarding the open call (Category 2) to the rural regeneration and development fund circulated previously and presented by the RRDF team. The Committee were advised of the following:  Aim of Rural Regeneration Fund  Work programme update  New open call  Primary focus and key eligibility criteria (of the call)  Potential Category 2 Projects/Opportunities

Members also noted that a public consultation event will be held in the Waterfront Hotel, Dungloe on the 28th January 2020 in relation to preparation of a Dungloe Regeneration Strategy.

2. Burtonport Harbour Redevelopment – Phase 2

The Committee were updated on proposals and plans for the redevelopment of Burtonport Harbour by Architects and Planners who responded to Members queries.

This concluded the Business of the Workshop Community, Enterprise & Planning Service

Planning Services Report

Glenties MD Meeting 11th February 2020

Item Update 1 Development Applications (1) Statistics County Totals Year to End December 2019:

Applications received 374 Granted 274 Refused 26 Deferred 109 Decided in under 2 months 207 Invalid 61

Applications to end December 2019

44 115 Invalid 111 61 72

150 237 Decisions < 56 days 214 207 212

50 128 Deferred 167 Stranorlar 109 103 Letterkenny

8 Inishowen 17 Refused 44 Glenties 26 27 Donegal

182 323 Granted 282 274 284

259 499 Apps Recd 504 374 407

0 100 200 300 400 500 600

Community, Enterprise & Planning Service

Planning Services Report

2 Enforcement Glenties MD December New Cases 0 Closed Cases 5 Outstanding cases on record 167 since 2012

3 Notes & Planning Clinics: Monthly  12th February Schedule  26th February  11th March

Please see website for further dates.

http://www.donegalcoco.ie/services/planning/planningclinics/ 4 Central Planning Unit (1) Continuing the ongoing programme of engagement between Letterkenny Planning Section staff and Members, the latest MD Workshop was scheduled for 4th February, 2020. The agenda for this Workshop was designed to provide a focus on relevant key strategic engineering issues with relevant engineering staff scheduled to attend.

In the meantime, ongoing Plan development work is continuing and includes, inter alia, the following areas of work:

~ finalisation by consultants, in consultation with the Council’s Planning and Engineering sections, of the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment for the town, which will be used to inform land-use zoning recommendations;

~ finalisation by consultants, in consultation with the Council’s Planning and Engineering section, of a review and update of the traffic modelling that was undertaken as part of the Letterkenny Integrated Land Use and Transportation Study (ILUTS) in 2009, with a view to informing an updated Local Transport Plan for Letterkenny; and

~ finalisation by Irish Water, in consultation with the Council’s Planning and Water Services sections, of a Wastewater Network Development Plan for the town, which Plan will set out how the town’s foul sewer network should be expanded to accommodate the growth ambitions for the town..

Other areas of work are also continuing including, inter alia, Community, Enterprise & Planning Service

Planning Services Report

continued engagement with: ~the Economic Development section with regard to the economic development strategy for Letterkenny and how this should inform the Letterkenny Plan; and ~ the Regeneration and Development Team to ensure that both areas of work dovetail appropriately .

(2) Buncrana ICLRD (The International Centre for Local and Regional Local Area Development), have commenced their 10 week project period Plan to prepare a comprehensive strategic study on the future direction and economic positioning of the town of Buncrana. ICLRD and Planning staff already had a very productive meeting with the Inishowen MD Members on 23rd January, 2020. A schedule of further detailed cross-sector stakeholder consultation events will be held during February (Members have already been advised separately regarding these detailed arrangements). The entire project is anticipated to complete towards the end of March 2020. The findings of the Study will be presented to the Inishowen Members during early Q2 2020. This Study will assist in informing both the Local Area Plan for the town and decisions around the future strategic positioning and direction(s) of Buncrana, in addition to potential future strategic regeneration funding applications.

Queens University of Belfast students conducted study visits to Buncrana and Moville as part of their studies in Masters course in Urban Planning on Thursday 30th January 2020. This is to complete their module in ‘Design in the Built Environment’ and their course director has selected the towns of Buncrana and Moville to use as their case studies.

The Central Planning Unit assisted the students during their study visits by way of facilitating and identifying site specific areas that might be of particular interest in terms of their work programme and course module. It is anticipated that the students will share their end work/results with DCC and the MD Members. More information in this regard will be forthcoming in due course. Please note that this Queens University project is a standalone and separate piece of work to that being carried out by ICRLD and whilst we hope to benefit from the end results and recommendations our role is to provide some local knowledge and assistance during the study visits only. (3) Bundoran Preliminary work has begun in relation to the targeted intervention measures previously discussed and agreed in principle with Members. Further details will be provided in due course.

Community, Enterprise & Planning Service

Planning Services Report

(4) County Wind Energy; and TEN-T Priority Roads Project Development The 2020 Work Programme for the Central Planning Unit Plan 2018- already includes the preparation of Variations in relation to the 2024 (CDP following key policy areas: 2018-2024) 1. Wind Energy; and 2. TEN-T Priority Roads Project

The requirement for the Wind Energy Variation has been accelerated following the publication of the Draft Revised Wind Energy Guidelines, December 2019. A link to this document was forwarded to Members on 13th December, 2019 and Members were advised that a detailed report on the Draft Guidelines was presented to the January 2020 Plenary Council Meeting. Following a request made at the Plenary meeting, Members were invited to forward comments to the Planning Section by Monday 10th February, 2020 so that they could be incorporated into the Council’s submission to the Draft Guidelines.

The requirement for the TEN-T Variation is also being advanced on foot of the publication of the TEN-T Preferred Route Corridors report in January, 2020.

Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy; and Two-Year Review The Work Programme also includes the preparation of either a single Chief Executive’s Report, or separate Reports in relation to the following:

a. A ‘2-year’ report on ‘the progress achieved in securing the objectives’ of the County Development Plan, as required under Section 15 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (As Amended); and b. Following the making of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly’s Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) on 24th January, 2020, consideration of the consistency of the Donegal County Development Plan, 2018-2024 as required under Sections 11and 27 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (As Amended).

Plenary Workshop on Foot Of Councillor C. Brogan Motion At the Plenary Council meeting of January, 2020 Councillor Brogan submitted the following motion:

"I propose that we as a Council review the County Development Plan as a matter of urgency so as to address the Community, Enterprise & Planning Service

Planning Services Report

challenges people are facing with planning at the moment".

The response to the Motion recommended that arrangements are made to discuss these matters with members at an agreed date to enable a full understanding of the issues raised by the motion and to allow for distribution of information relating to the issues and trends arising from the range of planning applications received by the Council.

The response also noted that this motion was timely in light of the statutory 2-Year Report obligation on the Planning Authority as referenced above.

It was agreed that a Plenary Workshop will be convened in April in the first instance. Members will be notified of detailed arrangements in due course.

(5)Town & Specialist Conservation Architect, Duncan McLaren of Village Dedalus Architecture is continuing the work to prepare the Renewal Ramelton Action Plan for Renewal and Regeneration Programme including identification of proposals for enhancement of civic (2016) and public space. It is hoped that a Draft Action Plan will have projects been published prior to the date of the next Letterkenny MD meeting on 11th February, 2020. A verbal update will be provided at that meeting. 5 Further Information • Weekly List of applications and decisions: Click on web http://www.donegalcoco.ie/services/planning/weeklyplannin links to glists/ access • Planning service email (to be used in correspondence with information. the planning service): [email protected] • Planning Webpage: www.donegalcoco.ie/services/planning/ • Planning Application Online Query – planning reference number required: www.donegalcdb.ie/eplan/internetenquiry/rpt_querybysurfor recloc.asp • File Retrieval Form – to be used for file retrieval and when requesting planning searches: www.donegalcoco.ie/media/donegalcountyc/planning/pdfs/fil eretrieval/File%20Retrieval.pdf

Community & Planning Directorate Community Development Division

Municipal District of Glenties 11 February 2020 ______

Community Development Division ______

CLÁR / AGENDA

1. Report on recent activity in the Community Development Division

1.1 Public Participation Network - PPN

1.2 Rural Development Programme/LEADER

1.3 Age Friendly – Older Persons Council

1.4 YOURS Project

Activity / Project Donegal Public Participation Network (PPN) Title Líonra Rannpháirtíochta Pobail Dhún na nGall

Project Link through which organisations from the community & voluntary sector Description/Activi have a voice on Council decision making bodies and other structures ty Budget (if €80,000.00 per annum applicable) Progress to date PPN membership now stands at 564 registered organisations. Donegal within the last two MD102, Glenties MD 135, Inishowen MD 104, Letterkenny MD 156, Stranorlar months inclusive of MD 67. The PPN have 39 Representatives on 22 different Committees and current status Boards.

The PPN Secretariat continues to meet on a bi-monthly basis to coordinate the functioning of the PPN in conjunction with the Resource Worker. Annette McGrenra has been appointed as the PPN Support Worker which is a very welcomed development.

Donegal PPN has purchased a Property Marking Machine and held its first th training Session for local Gardai & LA Staff on 27 January, 2020 in LKPSC. Community Groups will be invited to the second training session in a few weeks. Public workshops will take place in the Municipal Districts when

training is completed.

The first two training sessions for Representative Training took place on the 30th January, 2020 in Letterkenny PSC. The Role of the PPN Representative on Donegal County Council’s LCDC, SPC’s, JPC and other Committees is very important and the training provides information & support on the Role. The next two sessions are to take place on the 6th February, 2020.

PPN & Independent Living Movement Ireland (ONSIDE) will deliver a Disability Equality Workshop to Service Users in LKPSC on 12th February 10am – 2.00pm. The Workshop is now fully booked.

The first Workshops for a Donegal PPN Vision for Community Wellbeing will take place on 18th February in The Donegal Municipal District.

Re- Registration of PPN Groups will take place in February 2020 and groups will be asked to update their registration details.

Secretariat Elections will be held at the PPN AGM on 27th February, 2020.

Representative Training 6th February, 2020 LKPSC Project Targets for Disability Equality Workshop 12th February, 2020 in LKPSC the next bi- PPN Vision for Community Wellbeing Workshop 18th February monthly/quarterly* PPN AGM/Plenary 27th February 2020 reporting period Regional PPN Meeting 2nd March, 2020 in Castlebar, Co Mayo

Contact Person Mary Clyde / Annette McGrenra (to include telephone 074 9153900 number & e-mail [email protected] address)

Activity / Project Title Rural Development Programme/LEADER

Activity / Project Donegal Local Community and Development Committee are Description the Local Action Group for County Donegal, with responsibility

for the LEADER/Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 Budget €12,913,873 Note: Project costs €9,685,406, administration and animation costs €3,228,467 Progress to date within the There are 4 Implementing Partners within the county; Donegal last two months-inclusive of Local Development Company (DLDC), Inishowen Development current status Partnership (IDP), Údarás Na Gaeltachta and Comhar na nOileán, who are rolling out the LEADER programme on behalf of the LAG (Local Action Group). 161 projects in Donegal are

now approved by Pobal and Letters of Offer have issued/are pending granting LEADER funding to a value of just over €7.56m. Donegal has the highest approved project spend nationally for the LEADER programme to date. Project Targets for the next The next LCDC/LAG meeting will be held on 18th February 2020, bi-monthly reporting period with further projects coming forward for approval.

Monthly Evaluation Committee meetings are also being held in order to progress projects to LCDC/LAG stage and the development companies continue to engage with promoters on the ground to develop and assess potential applications and to

promote the LEADER programme. Contact Person Seamus Canning 074 9172597 [email protected]

Activity / Project Title Age Friendly

Project Older Persons Council Description/Activity Budget The Older Persons Council AGM was held on January 28, 2020. Progress to date within Cathaoirleach Cllr Nicholas Crossan opened the AGM followed the last quarter -inclusive by an update report of the Donegal Age Friendly programme of current status from Charles Sweeney, Donegal County Council. Chairperson Frank Campbell gave and an overview of the annual report. Mellissa Currid, HSE give a presentation on Falls Prevention & Bone Health for older adults. This was followed by an open discussion on the importance of Active Ageing campaign “get up, “get dressed and get moving”. Over 80 people attended what was a very informative and enjoyable event.

Project Targets for the The Older persons Council continue to have the voice of Older next quarterly reporting People in Donegal heard in local and National development period policy making.

Mairead Cranley Contact Person Staff Officer [email protected]

Activity / Project Title YOURS Project – Youth & Old, Understanding, Remembering & Sharing.

Project Intergenerational Project - PEACE IV Description/Activity

Budget €150,000

Progress to date within the Arts & Cultural Activity last two months/quarter* - inclusive of current status Status: Intergenerational Dance Group – Activity Complete

26 participants from both age categories came together for 26 hours of dancing and fun, a day trip on the Donegal Waterbus and, a

celebration/performance at the end. Huge benefits for older people that felt isolated and didn’t socialise much or have any contact with youth. Friendships were made and participants from different communities bonded. * Delete irrelevant reporting period

Addressing Stereotypes

Status: ‘Walk & Ponder’ – Activity Complete

A total of 51 participants came together weekly for a walk in two sites, a group in Ballyshannon and a group in Raphoe. Each walk was followed by a cuppa and occasionally a guest speaker, among which were, Jigsaw, Bill Vaughan (mental health) and a HSE Nutritionist. A healthy eating cooking demonstration was provided for the participants in each location. Ballyshannon participants took part in the recent ‘Walkability Audit’. Various workshops were held throughout the activity focusing on positive relations and cross community relationships. As an end to this activity, both groups enjoyed a day out in Lough Eske on 5th December. Several requests were received from participants in the Ballyshannon group to continue with the activity. This group in particular found it a very positive and an enjoyable experience. Participants who live alone and those recovering from an illness benefited hugely from the Walk and Ponder. Also the older participants looked forward to meeting the younger participants each week and talking about various matters of interest to both. Following a discussion with the Donegal Sports Partnership, it was agreed that the group in Ballyshannon could be facilitated again for a period early in 2020 (funded by the DSP). Photos taken and comments received throughout the activity display the positive impact such intergenerational activities have on participants.

Bridging the Generation Gap Status: ‘Pass it on’ – Male Active Programme – Facilitator selected.

Inishowen Development Partnership are the Facilitators for this activity in the South Inishowen areas of Burt, Bridgend, Burnfoot, Inch, Fahan and Newtowncunningham. Registration night was held on 3rd February 2020. 14 adults and 11 children joined which is the maximum and required number. A very extensive programme of activities will take part over the 26 hours to include; physical activity, cookery, health & well being, walking football, pilates, technology and a trip to FabLab in Derry.

Wellbeing & Physical Activity Status: – ‘Generations United’ - Social Soccer activity - Facilitator selected. Donegal Sports Partnership will be facilitating this activity in two sites in East Donegal. ‘Generations United’ will be developed in Letterkenny town and Raphoe/Convoy/Newtowncunningham targeting 40 over 55’s and 20 under 18’s. They will work with established community groups and football clubs and link in with local primary schools and TY students. It is hoped that this activity will commence in the coming weeks.

Personal Skills – Past & Present Status – ‘Carry on Crafting’ – Shared Skills – Activity commenced Craft classes commenced on Wednesday 29th January in the Finn Valley area following interest received from students in the Finn Valley College on the YOURS Project and intergenerational activity. 31 participants joined the class which was facilitated by Roisin Nelis, The Sewing Studio, Fahan. There has been huge interest in this activity and a list has been compiled of those interested in any future similar intergenerational activity. Crafts such as; decoupage, flower arranging and embroidery will be displayed as well as a focus on wellbeing, share of technology knowledge and basic sewing skills.

Shared Past Local History Status: To be developed – Possible Book Club/Drama Club

To include storytelling, poetry, possible ‘conversation cafe’, capture thoughts going from 2020 to 2021. Script writing, produce a play, ‘looking back on life’, make costumes and props. Liaise with the Central Library. Target participants – to be explored further. Contact Person Sharleen Tinney (to include telephone Project Co-ordinator number & e-mail address) [email protected] / 0870574901

This project is supported by the EU’s Peace IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)

ENVIRONMENT REPORT – February 2020

WASTE AND LITTER MANAGEMENT

Municipal District:_All

Activity / Tidy Towns Workshops on the National Tidy Towns Application Form Project Title

Project Description/ Following on from last years successful workshop in the Donegal MD, the Council has arranged Activity for a Workshop on the National Tidy Towns Application Form for each Municipal District. The workshops will be based on giving groups advice on how to complete the National Tidy Towns application form and will be delivered by National Adjudicator Debbie Nesbitt.

Dates and venues below:

Letterkenny MD: Monday 10th February 10am - 12pm Milford PSC Council Chamber

Glenties MD: Monday 17th Feb 10am - 12pm Dungloe PSC Council Chamber

Stranorlar MD: Monday 23rd March 10am - 12pm The Base Stranorlar

Inishowen MD: Monday 6th April 10am - 12pm Carndonagh PSC, Council Chamber

Donegal MD: Monday 20th April 10am - 12pm Donegal PSC Council Chamber.

Contact Suzanne Bogan, Waste Awareness Officer Person [email protected]

Activity / Green Schools: Project Title Project 2020 will be another very busy year for Green Schools. There are approximately 100 schools Description/ due to renew their Green Flags on a range of themes with the latest theme being Global Activity Citizenship Marine Environment. Renewal of a Green Flag takes place on a two yearly cycle. On occasion a school may defer a renewal for a variety of reasons.

Schools follow a seven step approach that includes;

1. Setting up a Committee 2. Environmental Review 3. Action Planning 4. Monitoring & Evaluating 5. Curriculum Links 6. Informing & Involving the wider Community 7. Green Code

Themes:

 Litter & Waste  Energy  Water  Sustainable Travel  Biodiversity  Global Citizenship Litter & Waste  Global Citizenship Energy  Global Citizenship Marine Environment

Contact Suzanne Bogan, Waste Awareness Officer Person [email protected]

Activity / Fine Imposed for Box Being Dumped at Bring Bank Project Title Project At a recent Court hearing for non-payment of a litter fine, the District Court judge was critical Description/ of the manner in which the recycling was carried out and said he could not understand why Activity people did not use the recycling centres properly. The Judge said he could not understand why members of the public did not use the facilities in accordance with the direction provided.

He said, “If I go to a recycling centre and it is full, I will bring my bottles home and I will bring them back on another day”.

The Judge imposed a fine and also awarded costs to the Council.

Contact Matthew Byrne, Waste Regulation Officer Person [email protected]

COASTAL MANAGEMENT/PUBLIC CONVENIENCES

Municipal District: All_

Activity / Clean Coasts Roadshow – 15th February Project Title Progress to date

Contact David Friel Person 087 7801596

Economic Development, Information Systems & Emergency Services Directorate

Report to Municipal District of Glenties

Content

1. Economic Development Unit 2. Tourism Unit 3. Research & Policy Unit 4. Local Enterprise Office 5. Information Systems 6. Emergency Services

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1. Division: Economic Development Unit

Project / Activity Report

Activity / Project Title Economic Development Unit New Economic Development Unit positioned within the Economic Development, IS & Emergency Services Directorate.

Outline of Work The Economic Development Unit is focusing on the following areas of work:

Economic Development Strategy: developing a 5-year

Economic Development Strategy for Donegal County Council that will provide a framework to guide the work of the Council enabling us the realise the ambitions set out the recently adopted Corporate Plan. The strategy will set key targets and performance indicators that will assist in monitoring and evaluating effectiveness. The preparation of this strategy will be informed and guided by the new Economic, Enterprise and Emergency Services SPC.

Tourism Strategy: this strategy will build on the excellent work undertaken by the Council over the last number of years in both marketing Donegal as a destination of choice and in developing the tourism product and visitor experiences. The Tourism Strategy will set out a clear direction on how we can build on our successes and work to continue to increase visitor numbers, spend and dwell time and extend the tourism season across the year.

Concierge Service: dedicated first point of contact for potential business start-ups or business expansion opportunities offering support and advice in terms of navigating the wide range of Council services and supports.

Property Solutions: including identification, marketing, option appraisal of Council owned property and land for economic development opportunities including provision of soft landing and second site location opportunities for business.

Proactive engagement: engaging with existing businesses

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across Donegal with the first event scheduled to take place on 4th March in Letterkenny during Enterprise Week.

Global engagement: proactively targeting potential FDI opportunities in the US market in collaboration with Derry City & Strabane District Council and working to create a Donegal / North West bias for businesses interested in exploring investment opportunities in the EU and UK. This includes compiling relevant baseline data and information profiling the offer available and providing essential data for location decisionmakers.

Branding & Marketing: developing a consistent branding and messaging strategy for Donegal as a great place to do business and invest.

Collaboration: Working with our colleagues in Community Development and Planning Services including the Regeneration and Development Team in progressing a range of strategic projects across the county and ensuring a strong economic development focus.

Atlantic Economic Corridor: working with Local authority partners along the western coast to progress mutually beneficial projects and initiatives.

Contact Person Ciaran Martin [email protected] (086)8261760 Rosita Mahony – [email protected] (087) 2510128

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2. Division: Economic Development – Tourism Marketing Unit

Outline of activity Bundoran Tourism Marketing Initiatives: Work underway includes: th  New 48 page brochure and regional visitor map launched on Tuesday 14 January at Bundoran Community Centre. Distribution underway. th th  Promoted Bundoran at Holiday World Show at the RDS from 24 – 26 January.  New 2020 Tourism marketing plan for Bundoran being prepared.  Preparation underway for St. Patricks Day celebrations in Bundoran with delegations from Netherlands, UK, Finland, Slovenia and Spain expected. Associated promotional activity including a promo video and live broadcast on Discover Bundoran Facebook.  Preparations underway for Big Week by the Beach in August (12th – 16th); Bia Bundoran Food & Drink Festival in September (18th-20th) and 10th Annual Cara Bundoran Challenge (13th/14th March).  Online digital marketing of Discover Bundoran brand via www.discoverbundoran.com and social media channels – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube.  Marketing of Waterworld and Bundoran Seaweed Baths in advance of season 29 opening on Good Friday 10th April.  Ongoing management of Bundoran Tourist Office.

Contact person: Shane Smyth, Bundoran Tourism Officer – 087 3737817 [email protected]

Online digital marketing of GoVisitDonegal brand: GoVisitDonegal.com provides information on accommodation, festivals, attractions, travel information etc. and is free for service providers to register and promote their business.

Website performance highlights:  Page views: Jan 2020 vs Jan 2019 - 22,050 vs 11,625 (+89.6%)  Users: Jan 2020 vs Jan 2019 - 8,225 vs 4,036 (+103.8%)  January 2020 website traffic came from 64 countries worldwide ranked as follows: US, Ireland, UK, Germany, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain.

Go Visit Donegal social media performance – Last 28 days: Facebook Page: 35,362 followers with top reach: 59,892 and Twitter: 13K followers, Tweet impressions: 302K, Profile visits 1,809

Last 7 days: Instagram: Followers: 14,605, Reach 13,816, Impressions:

69,542

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Trade resources page on the GoVisitDonegal.ie provides information for tourism providers including:  How to register in the Tourism Hub & get listed on the website  How to manage the Tourism Hub account  Submission of Festivals and Events  Donegal Tourism Associate Membership

Contact person: Iga Lawne, Community Tourism Officer: [email protected] / [email protected] T: 074-972 4475 Holiday World Show 2020 Donegal Tourism attended the Holiday World Show 2020 in Dublin for the fifth consecutive year. 27 tourism businesses from 10 different areas around the county attended the show under the Donegal Tourism umbrella, representing and promoting the following regions:  Donegal Airport,  Discover Bundoran,  Discover Ballyshannon,  Donegal East,  Donegal Self Catering,  Donegal Town,  Letterkenny,  Inishowen,  South Donegal/Gaeltacht,  Northwest/Gaeltacht This event creates a wonderful platform for the local tourism providers to help promote Donegal as a destination for the benefit of the whole county.

CAPITEN - a marine themed project funded via the Atlantic Area Programme and is a four year project that commenced in November 2017. This project is led by the Regional Council of Brittany. Website: www.capiten.eu

Donegal County Council is working with Emagine Media on the production of three VR films showcasing our signature discovery points on the Wild Atlantic Way at Sliabh Liag, Fanad Head and Malin Head and a range of marine activities in those areas.

Emagine Media worked extensively with local stakeholders in each of the

three regions to develop an authentic localised script and local people will

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provide the voiceover for the films in an authentic Donegal accent.

Pico VR headsets have been purchased for use in showing the VR films. 3 will be provided for each of the visitor centres at the three signature points and the other 3 will be retained by Donegal Tourism CLG for use in promoting Donegal at trade shows and other events.

The Pico VR headsets were used at the Holiday World Show in Dublin on 25th and 26th January 2020 to showcase County Donegal to visitors. The feedback was excellent.

Will be launched at the upcoming Tourism Conference on 13th February.

Contact person: Joy Harron, [email protected]

MalinWaters: Marine themed project funded by project partners. www.malinwaters.com

This project is funded by partners on an annual basis. The project promotes the shared maritime regions of North West Ireland (Donegal and Sligo) and Northern Ireland. Support has been provided for a number of events in the partner regions including 19 events in Donegal in 2019.

Marketing activity for 2019 included promotion of the website www.malinwaters.com, social media marketing, print advertising in Welcome Anchorages and Yachting Life, Google Ad Words, promotion at trade shows including Boot Dusseldorf and SeaFest.

A variety of maritime themed festivals and events received financial support and marketing assistance in 2019 via this project. All partners have been contacted to determine if they will financially support the project in 2020. Depending on this outcome and the budget, a marketing plan will be developed for the coming months.

Contact person: Joy Harron, [email protected]

WAOH! Route Project/Wildsea Europe Network/Heart Project Website: www.wildsea.eu

The “WAOH Route: A Dive into Adventure” is the first, European, Sustainable Diving Route and network connecting world-class diving sites

from the extreme south in Portugal and Spain to the far north, 6

encompassing Ireland and UK, which embody common European shared values & heritage.

WAOH! Route - Total Budget is €374,980 of which Donegal is €62,274

The final meeting of the WAOH! Route project Steering Committee took place in Porto on 12th and 13th November and was attended by the Project Officer from the European Commission. The Project Officer was very pleased with the project outputs and the positive partnership collaboration. The project has now concluded and the final financial and technical reports will be completed by the end of February 2020.

Wildsea Europe is the network of marine tourism businesses that has been developed as a result of this project. 29 Donegal businesses are listed on www.wildsea.eu A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Wildsea Europe network took place on 23rd January. WILDSEA Europe’s 1st International Networking & Knowledge Exchange meeting will take place in Q4 of 2020.

The Heart project is a further development of this project partnership and an application for funding has been submitted to the EU Commission. If successful this will allow us to fund a new training programme for tourism operators in Donegal.

Contact person: Joy Harron, [email protected]

FLAG North – this is a funding opportunity administered by BIM (Bord Iascaigh Mhara) in which Donegal County Council has representatives on the Board of Directors.

FLAG (Fisheries Local Action Group) North forms part of Ireland’s European Maritime Fisheries Fund Operational Programme 2014 – 2020, co-funded by the Exchequer and European Union.

In Donegal 33 projects received funding in 2017 and 37 projects received funding in 2018. This funding opportunity is open to public bodies, community groups, charities, businesses in the seafood and marine sector and those outside that sector. There is funding for festivals and events.

The most recent funding call closed on 31st January with project assessment taking place in February 2020. Projects are eligible if they are located within a 10km coastal strip around County Donegal, taking in much on west Donegal.

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Contact person: Joy Harron, [email protected] boot Dusseldorf 2020 Donegal County Council hosted a tourism stand at this exhibition in January. It runs over 9 days and is the world’s largest boat and watersports tourism show in the world. boot Düsseldorf 2020 made history again with 250,000 visitors from 106 countries and 1,900 exhibitors, who all came together at the trade fair, held at a gigantic exhibition arena measuring 2,5 million square feet.

 Situated in the Travelworld Hall in a central location along the central walkway which insured the stand was very busy.  20 minute presentation each day on Donegal at both the Holiday World main stage and the World of Paddling and Watersports stage.  Mobile virtual reality tours of Donegal and Sliabh Liag distilleries tastings were available.  Donegal Marine Tourism trade were also on the stand.

Contact person: Mary Fowley Daly, Tel: + 353 74 9724484 | Email: [email protected]

Donegal Tourism Brochure 2020: new 64 page full colour brochure to be launched on 13 February and will be distributed nationally and available for all marketing events.

Contact person: Mary Fowley Daly, Tel: + 353 74 9724484 | Email: [email protected]

Donegal Tourism Seminar – will take place on 13 February in the Villa Rose

Hotel, Ballybofey.

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‘Partnership through Tourism’ is the theme of the seminar this year and travel experts are set to share their expertise on sustainable tourism, tourism strategies and marketing techniques.

Guest speakers will include:  Niamh Slone - Digital Marketing Manager, Fáilte Ireland,  Geraldine Egan - Industry Liaison Officer, Tourism Ireland,  Dr. Cara Augustenborg – Sustainable Tourism Expert,  James Doherty – Founder and MD of Sliabh Liag Distillery,  Garry Martin – Director of Economic Development, IS and Emergency Services  Nick Hall- Founder and Managing Director, Global Think Tank

The event is free of charge and open to the public. Registration is open on eventbrite and an invite will be distributed to all members.

Contact person: Contact person: Sarah Nolan - [email protected]

Gaeltacht Tourism Officer: along with a number of other Donegal based businesses, the Gaeltacht attended Tourism Ireland’s first promotion of 2020 in Glasgow in January - Celtic Connections.

30 Irish tourism businesses took part in a B2B workshop and networking event with travel professionals from Scotland and the north of England. Tourism Ireland is rolling out a new ‘twinning’ initiative which will see overseas markets ‘twinning with a specific region in Ireland with Great Britain twinning with Donegal and Derry.

Contact person: Máire Ní Fhearraigh, Oifigeach Turasóireachta Gaeltachta / Gaeltacht Tourism Officer, Email: [email protected]

Donegal Town – Development Hub • Work with Donegal Chamber on various events including exploring the St. Patrick’s Day and extending the festival, assist in the submission of Failte Ireland Funding. • Foodie Destination Award – Donegal Town • Continue to work with Donegal Community Chamber on its annual calendar of events • Continue to work alongside Donegal Town Business Focus Group on its retail strategy

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Contact person: Mary Fowley Daly, Tel: + 353 74 9724484 | Email: [email protected]

Donegal showcasing at the Milwaukee Irish Fest 2020: Building on the festival’s strong relationship with Donegal, this year’s Donegal 2020 showcase will spread the word of Donegal as the number 1 destination in Ireland.

The event attracts an audience of over 120,000 people.

Our dedicated Donegal festival stage will host an impressive roster of musicians from Donegal throughout the weekend.

Donegal will have a booth at the Irish Destinations area so attendees can learn about all things Donegal. A Donegal Chef will hold various cookery demonstrations displaying the best of Donegal cuisine.

In the Cultural Pavilion, exhibits and displays featuring the art and history of Donegal will be on display. In the Hedge School pavilion, there will be presentations and storytelling by Donegal storytellers.

Local tourism businesses have been invited to showcase their business offering and we are finalising numbers for this.

Contact person: Sarah Nolan, [email protected]

North West City Marketing Plan: Donegal County Council and Derry and Strabane District Council are working on developing a Regional Tourism Programme that encompasses a co-ordinated destination campaign with associated marketing collateral that aligns with local, national and regional tourism strategies and will support the North West City Region where tourism has been identified as a key proposition. Activities include:  production of 6 videos showcasing the region and  the preparation of a suite of photography for use in promoting the region.

Contact person: Sarah Nolan, [email protected]

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3. Division: Economic Development Unit – Research and Policy

Project / Activity Report

Research & Policy Unit

‘To strategically guide policy decisions & investments in County Donegal through the provision of baseline data, research, policy, planning, monitoring and evaluation expertise’

Progress to date within  Contractualisation of Trail Gazers including all financial and legal the April – Dec 2019 matters upon which the subsidy contract & partnership agreements are based/ Liaison with Joint Secretariat, 9

Transnational Atlantic Partners etc ( Jan – April, 2019)  Organisation of first AEC Taskforce Meeting in Donegal, 17th June, 2019. Actively participated in all AEC Officer Network Meetings.  Developed Commercial Workspace App for Ballybofey Stranorlar Pilot/ Liaised with estate agents, development agencies, private

property owners etc/ mapped all space.  Monitoring and Evaluating the LECP - currently we have over 150 projects captured on our tailored monitoring system and we will be working on a 1-1 basis with all key stakeholders to ensure updates for the LCDC Meeting in December.  Assisted with the organisation & promotion of the ‘Careers Fair for Young People with Disabilities or Additional Support Needs ‘ in the LYIT 16th November 2019  Provided research support to finalise an ‘optimal locational choice model for sheltered housing’ in Donegal  Facilitated selection of optimal trail development options in central Inishowen e.g. Tip O Neill Trail, Doris Russo Trail etc  Provide statistical indicators for Review of Corporate Plan  Data to support presentations to potential investor (26th Sept, 2019), to Donegal Connect Business Breakfast (2nd October, 2019), to DBEI Funding Pitch for DAC Alpha Project (16th Oct 2019)  Report on Health Care Services, Businesses & Demographic Impacts, 15 March 2019  Statistics in respect of Korean Ambassador (17 Oct 2019).  Organisation of consultations between Western Development Commission who are coordinating the development of the new AEC Strategy on behalf of the DRCD & Key Officials in Donegal County Council.  Development of scoping paper for the capture of KPI Indicators for County Donegal

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Project Targets for the  Research on the Socio Economic Impact of Digital Hubs on Rural next bi- Communities in association with Kerry & Galway City & County Council monthly/quarterly*  Coordinate the Monitoring & Evaluation Report for LCDC meeting reporting period Feb 2020  Population of KPI Indicators  Ongoing management of requests for statistical information  Represent Donegal County Council on the CYSPE Economic Sub Group & provision of baseline data to inform new Children’s Services Plan.  Review of Economic Opportunity Sites in County Donegal.

Contact Person Loretta Mc Nicholas Tel| 087 9029307 E | [email protected]

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4. Division: Economic Development - Local Enterprise Office

Project / Activity Report

The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) as the “first stop shop” plays a major role in offering expertise, know-how and financial support to local small businesses, enabling them to grow and thrive. Supports can be categorised under 4 core pillars, notably Financial, Capability Development, Enterprise Promotion and Economic & Other initiatives.

1.0 Financial Support

 Start Up/Business Expansion

For existing companies and potential start-ups that meet eligibility criteria (such as manufacturing/added value/ internationally traded services, employing 10 or fewer people with the potential for growth and job creation), the Local Enterprise Office can offer three types of financial supports:

 Feasibility/Innovation Funding Up to 60% of the cost of undertaking a feasibility study on an innovative new product or service may be considered subject to a maximum of €20,000.

 Priming (Start Up) Grant Aid Our Priming Funding is designed to assist a micro-enterprise within the first 18 months of start- up. It covers 50% of eligible costs, subject to a maximum contribution of €80,000.

 Business Expansion Grant Our Business Expansion Funding is designed to assist a micro-enterprise that has been trading for over 18 months. It covers 50% of eligible costs, subject to a maximum contribution of €80,000.

In 2019, 41 grants to a value of €630,000 were awarded to local businesses.

Technical Assistance for Micro-Exporters (TAME) Grant The TAME grant supports clients to explore and develop new export market opportunities, such as participation in international trade fairs and development of export-related marketing materials and websites. With a focus on helping companies to diversify, this scheme is a matched-funding opportunity with up to €2,500 available.

Trading Online Voucher Scheme An initiative under the Government’s National Digital Strategy, the Trading Online Voucher

Scheme helps small businesses trade more online to boost their sales and reach new markets.

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This scheme is a matched-funding opportunity with up to €2,500 available, with training and further supports provided by the Local Enterprise Office. Funding can be used towards eligible costs such as digital marketing strategies, e-commerce websites or app development. This grant is available to all businesses operating for more than 6 months and employing less than 10 employees, including those in the retail and tourism sector.

Agile Innovation Fund The Agile Innovation Fund helps support product, service and process innovation to build competitive advantage. The new Agile Innovation Fund is open to eligible Local Enterprise Office clients and it allows companies to access up to 50% in support towards innovation projects with a total cost of up to €300,000.

Microfinance Loans (through Microfinance Ireland) The Local Enterprise Office can work with clients on their application to Microfinance Ireland (MFI) for small business loans of between €2,000 and €25,000 (unsecured). Loans for commercially viable proposals can be used to help fund start-up costs, working capital or business expansion.

Brexit Loan Scheme The new Brexit Loan Scheme, which was announced in the 2018 budget, will provide affordable financing to businesses that are either currently impacted by Brexit or will be in the future. The Scheme, which will be delivered by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) through commercial lenders will make €300 million available to eligible businesses with up to 499 employees at an interest rate of 4% or less.

Brexit Stimulus Package The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation has announced an additional budget allocation of €3m to the border LEOs in 2020 as a stimulus measure to mitigate any Brexit related slowdown. Full programme details will be announced shortly.

2.0 Capability Development

The Local Enterprise Office provides a broad suite of training, management development, mentoring and peer-learning programmes all aimed at increasing the capability of owner managers and their key internal staff. These include: Mentoring Under the Mentor Programme, clients work with an experienced mentor on a one-to-one basis to address key challenges within their business.

Brexit Mentoring Through the Local Enterprise Office, small companies can get one-to-one mentoring on issues affecting them around Brexit.

Profitnet

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Profitnet is a highly successful business development and support programme which has benefited 180 Donegal businesses to date. The programme runs for a period of up to 18 months and involves monthly group meetings with peer business owners, which are facilitated to ensure there is an exchange of innovative and creative business solutions. New groups are being formed in 2020.

Training A range of tailored training programmes are provided including Start your Own Business, Preparing for Customs and Small Business Accounts.

LEAN for Micro – a programme tailored to the needs of each business which aims to improve efficiencies and profitability.

Achieve - Business Coaching Programme for the Owner Manger. An 18 month programme aimed at owner managers of micro and small businesses that want to drive the development of their businesses through increased sales in the national or international markets, increase profitability and sustainability and in turn increase employment. Priority will be given to existing clients of the Local Enterprise office Donegal.

Gateway to Growth International Export Programme – Led by Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council, the programme comprises of export workshops, one to one reviews and a North West Trade Mission financed by The Executive Office and the Irish Government.

3.0 Enterprise Promotion Under the Service Level Agreement between Enterprise Ireland on behalf of the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, a key area of activity of the local Authority/Local Enterprise Office is the promotion of an enterprise culture and entrepreneurship within the county. Activities under this include:

Local Enterprise Week Local Enterprise Week 2020 will take place from the 2nd – 6th March 2020. 23 enterprise related events will be organised by the LEO with the support of a range of agencies offering brilliant advice, information and inspiration. There will be activity and advice across the County with a range of high profile speakers and local businesses taking to the stage to share their stories.

Business Information Session Every month we host a business information session, which offers the opportunity for those that are in business or thinking of setting up a business to learn about the supports and services of the Local Enterprise Office Donegal

Student Enterprise Programme

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The Student Enterprise Programme is currently delivered across 22 schools in the County, engaging over 1200 students. The county final is scheduled for March 19th 2020.

Enterprise Awards Donegal Enterprise Awards is an opportunity to celebrate the success, ambition and endeavour of small businesses in Donegal. Winners have enjoyed considerable success in recent years with many of the local winners going on to enjoy regional and national success.

4.0 Economic & Other Initiatives

The LEO is engaged in a wide range of other initiatives, including; The Food Coast – Donegal’s Good Food Initiative was developed by the Local Enterprise Office Donegal as a programme to support the development, growth and ambition of the Donegal food sector. There is a growing ambition of making Donegal famous for food. The Food Coast Network is made up of Donegal food businesses which have an active interest in being part of the evolving Donegal food story.

The Food Coast – Mark of Origin is an initiative which aims to celebrate those that make and grow food in the county and the outlets that champion Donegal producers.

The Creative Coast Under the Creative Coast initiative there are several creative industries programmes, training courses and sector-specific creative networking and promotional opportunities planned for 2020. Creative Coast has a Craft & Design training programme ongoing in association with the Design & Craft Council of Ireland and will continue to work with DCCI to develop new programmes.

Enterprise Europe Network Enterprise Europe Network based in the LEO, helps Irish businesses innovate and grow internationally and is delivered by a partnership between Enterprise Ireland, Cork Chamber of Commerce, Dublin Chamber of Commerce and the Local Enterprise Offices. LEO Donegal manages the delivery of the programme through the 31 LEOs.

Donegal Diaspora The Donegal Diaspora project was established within Donegal County Council to act as a resource for the economic, social and cultural development of Donegal through working in an innovative and collaborative way to connect Donegal with its global family. The objective of which is to create opportunities and networks to connect with the Diaspora and to showcase and promote Donegal widely.

EIS: The Everywhere International SMEs (EIS) project brings together nine partners from seven regions across Europe. The EIS project aims at promoting excellence in regional business support systems for internationalising SMEs by sharing and embedding best practices to enable

more SMEs to expand their business across borders.

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Co-Innovate: A programme supported by the European Union's INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, which helps SMEs to explore innovation practices and boost their bottom line. Support provided ranges from free workshops tailored to suit each individual business, to innovation audits and one-to- one expert mentoring.

NICHE - Building innovative food value chains in regions. The NICHE project addresses challenges arising from changes in the food sector and will explore the potential of using information technology to increase innovation in seven European regions where food is important for jobs and economic growth. NICHE aims to develop innovation among companies among the partnering countries. SinCE-AFC – The LEO is a partner in an EU Project aimed at involving SMEs in the Agri-Food chain in the Circular Economy.

PASSPARTOOL – LEO Donegal is also partner in an EU project aimed at developing key tools to assess and improve soft innovation i.e. non-R&D innovation, within SMEs. The Local Enterprise Office also engages in the Regional Enterprise Plan delivery and co- ordination, contributes to the LCDC and LAG in Donegal and to the project evaluation committees of DLDC and IDP and to the Creative Ireland sub-committee in Donegal County

Council

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LEO Donegal - Performance Metrics

Jobs: Output 2019 Target 2020 LEO Client Portfolio 239 251 Total Portfolio Employment (All Jobs, both FT & PT) 1,331 1,401 Net Jobs Increase (All Jobs created minus all Job Losses) 57 70 Measure 1( Grant Aid) Output 2019 Target 2020 Number of Clients Approved Funding: 41 60 No. of projected potential new jobs associated with 78 110 Approvals (Priming & Business Expansion) Measure 2( Non grant supports) Output 2019 Target 2020 Training/Development Programmes (All Training and Networking events) Total No. of All Programmes 69 60 (Training/Networking/Events/Seminars) Total No. of all Participants participating in above 2,532 2,000 Programmes Mentoring: Total Number of individual mentoring – (participants 106 140 availing of one to one mentoring – one to one engagement by a Mentor with one client) Schools Entrepreneurship: Output 2019 Target 2020 Number of Schools Participating (Secondary schools only 22 22 engaged in school enterprise programmes) Number of Students Participating 1,261 1,200 Trading On Line Vouchers: Output 2019 Target 2020 No. of Trading Online Vouchers approved 42 45 Export Enterprise Development Programme Output 2019 Target 2020 No. of clients undertaking Export Enterprise Development 9 32 Programmes in Enterprise Ireland Enterprise Europe Network Output 2019 Target 2020 Number of Firms attending events 10 15 Number of Brokerage Events 2 2 Number of firms at brokerage events 240 200 Number of ASO and PA 4 10 Donegal Diaspora Output 2019 Target 2020 Events 7 5 Newsletter issues 2 4 Number of business enquiries generated 3 6 International Committee meetings 2 2

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Contact Person Brenda Hegarty Assistant Head of Enterprise Local Enterprise Office

[email protected]

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5. Division: Information Systems

Activity/Project Update Activity / Project Title Information Systems The Information Systems Department provides core Infrastructure, Software, ICT Systems and Device support to Donegal County Council staff and Elected Members.

Outline of Work Scale: Donegal County Council’s Information Technology infrastructure serves 107 locations countywide and is one of the largest Local Authority networks in Ireland. The infrastructure comprises

 91 Servers  1,274 Desktop & Notebook Computers  428 Printers/Scanners/Plotters  263 Tablets  640 Mobile Phones  200 Other Data devices  11 PABX  900+ Telephone handsets and 1,800 Extensions

Together with this ICT infrastructure, a wide range of Council business systems and applications are managed on an on-going basis. In addition to operational support on the networks and applications, a comprehensive systems programme is implemented annually.

Infrastructure Upgrade: Over the Period 2020 – 2022 the Information Systems Department will be undertaking a major upgrade of its network to maintain operational efficiency in a rapidly developing environment. Upgrades will fall into the following main categories  Networking Improvements (Wide Area Network Upgrades/Government Networks Connections)  Storage Solutions  Backup & Business Continuity Solutions  Telephony Systems Replacements and Upgrades  Hardware Replacement and Upgrades  Information and Security Solutions

 Upgraded Corporate Applications 20

 Additional Council Buildings – Network Connectivity

Software Upgrades and Systems Development:

The systems programme is designed to support the Council’s Corporate Plan and Customer Services Action Plan. It assists business units in Donegal County Council to work more efficiently and effectively, as well as delivering improved customer service applications.

Key projects for 2020 include the following:

 Ongoing development of eCouncil system  Development of Mica Redress support system  Office Automation Software Upgrades  Upgrade of GIS Portal and mapping services  Management Reporting

Contact Person Daragh McDonough IS Project Leader 074-9172450

Activity/Project Update

Activity / Project Title WiFi4EU Activity / Project WiFi4EU is an EU sponsored initiative to create free public WiFi Description spaces within the Digital Single Market. Municipalities across Europe had the opportunity to apply for a max of 4 Vouchers. DCC were successful in winning 4 vouchers to the value of €60,000. The Department of Rural & Community Development will match fund each voucher +€60,000. DCC to invest additional €30,000 to create budget total of €150,000 or €30,000 per Municipal District. Propose to install 75 outdoor public WiFI access points throughout County Donegal to create centres of public connectivity. Budget (if applicable) €150,000

Progress to date within the Proposed Locations already agreed with MD members. last month-inclusive of Tender designed, published and awarded in November 2019 current status Sord Data Systems Ltd has been appointed as project contractor.

The selected towns in the Glenties MD are as follows: Annagary,

Ardara, Creeslough, Dunfanaghy, Dungloe, Arranmore, Falcarragh,

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Fintown, Glenties, Burtonport, Kilclooney

Project Targets for the next monthly reporting period Start Social Media campaign to publicise locations Start contacting business to agree host locations on a phased basis Commence ordering broadband lines when hosts agreed

SORD to commence installing equipment and connecting locations

Contact Person Daragh McDonough – Broadband Officer (to include telephone [email protected] number & e-mail address) 074 9172450

Activity/Project Update

Activity / Project Title NBP – National Broadband Plan Activity / Project The NBP was signed by Government in November 2019 and will Description deliver High Speed Broadband to all rural Premises as defined in the Amber areas of the National Broadband Plan Map. The NBP will invest €135m in fibre infrastructure in County Donegal over the 7 years of the rollout and will connect 32,130 premises. National Broadband Ireland (NBI) is the consortium which will deliver the network and the NBP contract is managed by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment. Liaison with NBI is through the Broadband Officer in Donegal County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development. Early implementation of the NBP in 2020 will see the rollout of Community Broadband Connection Points (BCP’s). These centres will act as locations where High Speed Broadband is available in a local community setting or strategic site until the NBP Fibre is implemented. During 2020 NBI will be carrying out route proofing and surveying in preparation for fibre rollouts commencing in 2021. Budget (if applicable)

Progress to date within the 12 BCP’s have been identified in County Donegal including the last month-inclusive of following three in the Glenties Municipal District ; current status Amharclann Gaoth Dobhair – indoor & outdoor wifi Tory Island Co-op – Space for small scale Digital working space, indoor & outdoor wifi Glenveagh NP – Internal and Outdoor wifi access points at the visitor

centre.

22

Project Targets for the next Drawdown €600 capitation grant for each BCP from DRCD monthly reporting period Facilitate Site surveys at BCP’s

Contact Person Daragh McDonough – Broadband Officer (to include telephone [email protected] number & e-mail address) 074 9172450

23

6.Division - Emergency Services

Data for November and December 2019 and Yearly Totals

Activity Number of Total for year

Fire Brigade incidents within County Donegal: 122 819

Mobilisations (by Donegal Fire Service Brigades): 139 971

Mobilisations into Donegal (by NI Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS)): 13 92

Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) applications received: 37 189

FSC applications waiting to be assessed: 10 10

FSC applications assessed and waiting for Further Information: 31 31

FSC decisions made: 18 152

Applications for Dangerous Substance Licences received: 0 8

Dangerous Substance Licences issued: 0 2

Form of notice received under the Explosives Act, 1875: 0 12

Inspections and auditing carried out: 24 253

(Fire Services Act 1981 & 2003, Annual Licensing, DSA 1972, Explosive Stores, Pyrotechnics, BCA 1992 & 2007)

Fire Safety complaints received: 1 14

Fire Safety complaints dealt with: 1 14

During Performance Inspections (DPIs) carried out: 0 0

Notable Activities / Projects

24

Capital Investment Water Tanker Water Tankers are used to ferry water to fire brigade incidents where water supplies may be limited or non-existent. At the moment there are no water tankers operating within Donegal Fire Service. A specification is currently being drafted for a new 10,000l water tanker and the project is expected to go to tender sometime in 2020. Incident Command Vehicle Incident Command Vehicles are used to provide a physical space on the incident ground where large-scale incidents can be managed by the Incident Commander and their support staff. In 2019 Donegal Fire Service procured a pre-owned vehicle from another Fire Authority and the specification for the fit-out of this vehicle is currently under way. It is expected that the vehicle will go into operation later on in 2020. New Class B Appliance The Council took delivery of a new Class B Appliance (fire engine) in July 2019 which was allocated to Gaoth Dobhair Fire Brigade. The new appliance is based on the Scania P320 chassis which has an integrated crew-cab and individual seating for up to eight fire-fighters. The new appliance cost approximately four hundred and fifty thousand Euros and was fully funded by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government under its 2018 – 2020 Fire Service Fleet Renewal Programme.

Severe Weather Events Donegal County Council formally established a Severe Weather Assessment Team (SWAT), headed up by the Director of Emergency Services, in early 2019. The role of this team is to assess incoming weather forecasts, weather warnings, flood alerts and other such metrological and hydrological information to ensure that the Council is well informed to enable it react efficiently to severe weather events. This team was last activated for Storm Brendan on the 12th and 13th January 2020. Advance measures were put in place, particularly along the south coast of the county where coastal flooding was expected. Thankfully the storm passed without causing too much damage as the impact of the storm wasn’t as severe as it could have been.

Centenary Medals All members of Donegal Fire Service who served in 2016 are to be presented with special medals to mark their contribution to the 1916 Easter Rising centenary commemorations. These medals have now been distributed to all fire authorities in the State and plans are underway within Donegal to arrange for a single presentation event for eligible Donegal Fire Service personnel, both

serving and retired, to receive their medals.

25

Contact Person Kevin Mc Garvey [email protected]

26

GLENTIES MUNICIPAL DISTRICT MEETING 11th FEB 2020

Roads & Transportation Agenda

1. Follow up to Issues raised at last MD Meeting. Report has / will issue in advance of the MD Meeting to the Member that raised the query.

2. DNRDO Update

3. Proposal to Dispose of Lands At Ards,Creeslough.

4. 2020 Allocation Summary Sheet

5. Adopt 2020 Restoration Improvement Programme

6. Agree Date for Roads Workshop 2, Week Commencing 17th February to discuss the following outstanding Programmes:-

 Surface Dressing 2020  Community Involvement Schemes 2020  Bridge Strengthening 2020.

7. AOB

Proposal to Dispose of 2.11 Acres of Land at Ards, Creeslough to NPWS

Dear Members,

During the severe storms of January 2014, the Sea Defence at Ards, Creeslough was substantially damaged.

As part of the repair solution, adjacent land was purchased to acquire circa 5,000 m³ of sand. These works were completed during Q4, 2014 and Q1, 2015.

Subject of Member Approval, it was always envisaged that upon completion of the Works, these lands would then transfer to National Parks and Wildlife Services.

The land in question is of high environmental importance. A Lake has formed within the area concerned and is shown on the attached recent photograph. A map showing the Boundaries is also attached.

GMD Member opinion is sought on the Disposal prior to submitting to HQ to commence a Section 183.

Brendan Mc Fadden Senior Executive Engineer 4th February 2020

Roads Areas Division Budget Distribution 2020

Totals Non-Roads Roads Areas Donegal Glenties Inishowen Letterkenny Stranorlar Areas Centrally MD MD MD MD MD Controlled Controlled Funding Funding € €€€€€€€ Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII)(Note 1) NP Ordinary Maintenance €293,292 €103,239 €20,237 €59,538 €110,278 NP Winter Maintenance €264,600 €264,600 NP Capital Maintenance (Note 3) €0 €0 NP HD 28 (Note 3) €1,000,000 €1,000,000 National Primary Total = €1,557,892 €0 €1,264,600 €103,239 €0 €20,237 €59,538 €110,278 NS Ordinary Maintenance €201,895 €38,360 €135,270 €28,265 NS Winter Maintenance €164,600 €164,600 NS Capital Maintenance (Note 3) €0 €0 NS HD 28 (Note 3) €0 €0 National Secondary Total = €366,495 €0 €164,600 €38,360 €135,270 €0 €28,265 €0 LA Support (Maintenance) 2020 €66,600 €66,600 LA Support (Winter Maintenance) 2020 €10,000 €10,000 National Secondary Total = €76,600 €10,000 €66,600 €0 €0 €0 €0 €0 Total TII Roads Areas Funding = €2,000,987 €10,000 €1,495,800 €141,599 €135,270 €20,237 €87,804 €110,278 Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport (DTTAS)(Note 4) Winter Maintenance (Note 5) €1,000,000 €1,000,000 Bridge Refurbishment €250,000 €250,000 Regional & Local Roads Disc Maintenance €3,926,000 €810,533 €742,408 €972,544 €847,464 €553,051 Discretionary Grant (DG) Total = €5,176,000 €250,000 €1,000,000 €810,533 €742,408 €972,544 €847,464 €553,051 Regional Roads Restoration Maintenance €1,278,480 €0 €208,811 €315,664 €293,967 €325,941 €134,096 Local Roads Restoration Maintenance €3,287,520 €699,425 €593,914 €822,920 €690,873 €480,387 Restoration Maintenance (RM) Total = €4,566,000 €0 €0 €908,236 €909,578 €1,116,888 €1,016,815 €614,483 Materials Testing €40,000 €40,000 Restoration Improvement €15,842,500 €3,270,725 €2,995,824 €3,924,486 €3,419,751 €2,231,714 Restoration Improvement (RI) Total = €15,882,500 €0 €40,000 €3,270,725 €2,995,824 €3,924,486 €3,419,751 €2,231,714 Community Involvement Schemes €1,440,000 €297,292 €272,305 €356,715 €310,837 €202,851 Specific Improvement Grants €1,880,000 €600,000 €780,000 €500,000 Strategic Regional & Local Roads €920,000 €420,000 €500,000 Leck Road Improvement Works €400,000 €400,000 PSCI: Survey Report €50,000 €50,000 Drainage Works (Note 8) €1,320,010 €272,519 €249,615 €326,991 €284,936 €185,948 Severe Weather (Note 9) €422,911 €422,911 Other Grants (SI) Total = €6,432,921 €0 €50,000 €1,589,811 €521,919 €1,886,618 €1,995,774 €388,799 Bridge Rehabilitation €325,000 €325,000 Low Cost Safety Improvements €396,000 €396,000 Traffic Calming Pilot (Note 10) €63,757 €63,757 Training Grant €114,500 €114,500 DTTAS Non-Roads Areas Total = €899,257 €899,257 €0 €0 €0 €0 €0 €0 Total DTTAS Roads Areas Funding = €32,956,678 €1,149,257 €1,090,000 €6,579,305 €5,169,730 €7,900,535 €7,279,803 €3,788,047 Training €30,000 €30,000 Scrim test & Materials Tests €50,000 €50,000 Lining & Road Studs €200,000 €200,000 Depots & Health & Safety €75,000 €75,000 Bridges (Preventative Maintenance) €270,000 €220,000 €10,000 €10,000 €10,000 €10,000 €10,000 Bridges (Advance Design)(Note 11) €50,000 €50,000 Safety Fencing €80,000 €80,000 Co-finance Capital €50,000 €50,000 Invasive Species Management €30,000 €30,000 Staffing Budget (Note 12) €400,000 €400,000 Contingency Reserve €500,000 €500,000 Former Town Councils Roads (Note 13) €800,000 €238,400 €241,600 €320,000 Former Town Council Street Sweeping (Note 14) €365,003 €65,003 €76,000 €224,000 MD Works Overheads €1,600,000 €344,794 €309,927 €356,416 €348,668 €240,194 Regional Roads Own Resources €1,049,172 €171,359 €259,046 €241,241 €267,481 €110,045 Regional Roads OR (Ineligible under Grants) €460,650 €75,237 €113,737 €105,920 €117,440 €48,316 Local Roads Own Resources €1,786,427 €380,065 €322,731 €447,172 €375,418 €261,041 Local Roads OR (Ineligible under Grants) €784,350 €166,872 €141,698 €196,336 €164,831 €114,613 Own Resources Roads Areas Total = €8,580,602 €300,000 €1,385,000 €1,451,730 €1,157,140 €1,674,685 €1,827,839 €784,208 Parks & Open Spaces (Note 15) €940,781 €68,648 €5,399 €140,148 €725,348 €1,238 Moville Green & Barrack Hill (Note 16) €90,000 €90,000 Car Parking €1,130,000 €150,000 €430,000 €79,000 €315,000 €156,000 School Wardens €71,000 €71,000 Burial Grounds €40,000 €2,800 €7,200 €4,800 €9,600 €10,800 €4,800 DCC Specific Funding Total = €2,271,781 €71,000 €152,800 €505,848 €10,199 €318,748 €1,051,148 €162,038 Total DCC Funding = €10,852,383 €371,000 €1,537,800 €1,957,578 €1,167,339 €1,993,433 €2,878,986 €946,246 TOTAL 2020 FUNDING = €45,810,048 €1,530,257 €4,123,600 €8,678,482 €6,472,339 €9,914,206 €10,246,593 €4,844,571

2020 Budget Distribution - 28 Jan 2020 Roads Areas Division

Budget Distribution 2020 - Municipal Districts Summary

Totals Donegal Glenties Inishowen Letterkenny Stranorlar MD MD MD MD MD € €€€€€ National Roads NP Ordinary Maintenance €293,292 €103,239 €20,237 €59,538 €110,278 NS Ordinary Maintenance €201,895 €38,360 €135,270 €28,265 Total National Roads Funding = €495,187 €141,599 €135,270 €20,237 €87,804 €110,278 Non-National Roads Regional & Local Roads Disc Maintenance €3,926,000 €810,533 €742,408 €972,544 €847,464 €553,051 Regional Roads Own Resources €1,049,172 €171,359 €259,046 €241,241 €267,481 €110,045 Regional Roads OR (Ineligible under Grants) €460,650 €75,237 €113,737 €105,920 €117,440 €48,316 Local Roads Own Resources €1,786,427 €380,065 €322,731 €447,172 €375,418 €261,041 Local Roads OR (Ineligible under Grants) €784,350 €166,872 €141,698 €196,336 €164,831 €114,613 Bridges (Preventative Maintenance) €50,000 €10,000 €10,000 €10,000 €10,000 €10,000 MD Works Overheads €1,600,000 €344,794 €309,927 €356,416 €348,668 €240,194 Former Town Councils Roads (Note 12) €800,000 €238,400 €241,600 €320,000 Former Town Council Street Sweeping (Note 13) €365,003 €65,003 €76,000 €224,000 Discretionary Road Maintenance Funding Total = €10,821,602 €2,262,263 €1,899,549 €2,647,229 €2,675,302 €1,337,259 Regional Roads Restoration Maintenance €1,278,480 €208,811 €315,664 €293,967 €325,941 €134,096 Local Roads Restoration Maintenance €3,287,520 €699,425 €593,914 €822,920 €690,873 €480,387 Restoration Maintenance (RM) Total = €4,566,000 €908,236 €909,578 €1,116,888 €1,016,815 €614,483 Reg & Loc Roads Restoration Improvement €15,842,500 €3,270,725 €2,995,824 €3,924,486 €3,419,751 €2,231,714 Restoration Improvement (RI) Total = €15,842,500 €3,270,725 €2,995,824 €3,924,486 €3,419,751 €2,231,714 Community Involvement Schemes €1,440,000 €297,292 €272,305 €356,715 €310,837 €202,851 Specific Improvement Grants €1,880,000 €600,000 €780,000 €500,000 Strategic Regional & Local Roads €920,000 €420,000 €500,000 Leck Road Improvement Works €400,000 €400,000 Drainage Works (Note 8) €1,320,010 €272,519 €249,615 €326,991 €284,936 €185,948 Severe Weather (Note 9) €422,911 €422,911 Specific Grants Total = €6,382,921 €1,589,811 €521,919 €1,886,618 €1,995,774 €388,799 Total Non-National Roads Funding = €37,613,023 €8,031,035 €6,326,870 €9,575,220 €9,107,642 €4,572,255 Specific Funding for Roads Related items Parks & Open Spaces (Note 15) €940,781 €68,648 €5,399 €140,148 €725,348 €1,238 Moville Green & Barrack Hill (Note 16) €90,000 €90,000 Car Parking €980,000 €430,000 €79,000 €315,000 €156,000 Burial Grounds €37,200 €7,200 €4,800 €9,600 €10,800 €4,800 Roads Related Items Total = €2,047,981 €505,848 €10,199 €318,748 €1,051,148 €162,038 Total Roads Related Iterms Funding = €2,047,981 €505,848 €10,199 €318,748 €1,051,148 €162,038 TOTAL 2020 FUNDING = €40,156,191 €8,678,482 €6,472,339 €9,914,206 €10,246,593 €4,844,571

2020 Budget Distribution - 28 Jan 2020 Roads Areas Division

Budget Distribution 2020 Notes: 1 TII allocations must be spent in accordance with the NRA Memorandum on Road Grants. 2 TII allocations announced to date do not contain any allocation for High Collision Locations or Crash Barrier repairs. It is expected that funding under these headings will be announced by TII aimed at specific locations on the national road network in the coming months.

3 The TII Capital Maintenance and HD28 allocations are aimed at specific locations to be identified by TII on the national road network. These locations have yet to be confirmed by TII and any funding has been held centrally pending receipt of this clarification.

4 DTTAS allocations must be spent in compliance with DTTAS Circular RW1/2020 and the Memorandum on Grants For Regional and Local Roads.

5 Winter maintenance budget is weather dependent and will be supplemented as necessary from the OR Contingency Reserve. The budget has been set at €1,000,000 for 2020 to reflect the likely expenditure.

6 In previous years LAs were permitted by DTTaS to use up to 15% of their initial Discretionary Grant for Local Improvement Schemes (LIS). As LIS is now provided through the Department for Rural and Community Development this facility is no longer available from DTTaS.

7 In 2018 DTTaS provided a two year funding programme for Community Involvement Schemes (CIS). Funding has again been provided for 2020 with a commitment from DTTaS to provide an equivalent grant in 2021.

8 DTTas have continued their Drainage Grant for 2020 with funding of €1,320,010 and is to be used to address locations with drainage problems on the road network.

9 €422,911 has been provided by DTTaS for the repair of damage to public roads infrastructure arising from the August 2017 floods. Works in Donegal, Stranorlar and Letterkenny MDs were completed in previous years. Remaining works are in Inishowen MD.

10 Following the introduction of the 30 kph speed limit and the 'Slow Zone' signage in housing estates speeding remains problematic in a small number of cases. DTTaS have provided €50,000 in 2020 to allow for new traffic calming measures to be ppgiloted in these housing estates.

11 It was noted in the Budget Book that there was a need to advance the design work on certain bridges and €50,000 has been set aside centrally to fund this work.

12 The increase in outdoor staff numbers has resulted in increased staffing costs for outdoor work gangs. Similar to previous years monies have been retained centrally for targeting at RSS areas where staffing costs cannot be met from existing maintenance funding. €400,000 has been retained for this purpose.

13 €800,000 has been allocated to those MDs now incorporating former Town Councils (FTC) to replace the FTC OR allocations made previously.

14 Specific provision has again been made in the Council's Budget 2020 for Street Sweeping. In previous years street sweeping was funded from roads general maintenance monies and only the former Town Councils made specific allocation. As such Donegal, Inishowen & Letterkeny MDs have received a specific amount for street sweeping and the remainder has been included in Roads OR. MDs may provide for street sweeping from their Roads OR as normal in accordance with their individual preferences.

15 Parks and Open Spaces budget provision for 2020 has been distributed in the same manner as recent years which was based on 2013 expenditure under this heading.

16 Moville Green has been separately budgeted as per historic commitments and a separate allocation has again been made in the 2020 Budget towards the management of Barrack Hill, Carndonagh.

17 It is expected that Roads Own Resources funds will continue to be spent as normal as per the following breakdown from Budget Book 2020:

Drainage Works on Roads 40% - 50% Road Surface Repairs 35% - 45% Verge Maintenance 0% - 10% Sign Maintenance 0% - 5% Bridge Inspections 0% - 5% Emergency RTC and Flooding Response 0% - 5% Street Cleaning 0% - 15%

2020 Budget Distribution - 28 Jan 2020 18 Where specific allocations are made to MDs on the basis of their having former Town Councils it is expected that these allocations will be spent in the former Town Council areas and will not be used to supplement budgets outside of these areas.

19 The 2020 road mileage percentages differ from previous years to take account of the transfer of the Manorcunningham DED from the Inishowen MD to the Letterkenny MD and the additional road mileage arising from estate takeover. The following is a comparison of the 2019 and 2020 percentages;

Municipal District National National Regional Local Non National Primary Secondary Total

2020 Donegal 35.2% 19.0% 16.3% 21.3% 20.6% Glenties 67.0% 24.7% 18.1% 18.9% Inishowen 6.9% 23.0% 25.0% 24.8% Letterkenny 20.3% 14.0% 25.5% 21.0% 21.6% Stranorlar 37.6% 10.5% 14.6% 14.1% 2019 Donegal 35.2% 19.0% 16.3% 21.3% 20.7% Glenties 67.0% 24.7% 18.1% 18.9% Inishowen 14.7% 23.0% 25.5% 25.2% Letterkenny 12.5% 14.0% 25.5% 20.5% 21.1% Stranorlar 37.6% 10.5% 14.6% 14.1%

2020 Budget Distribution - 28 Jan 2020 DRAFT Falcarragh RSS Area

2020 Restoration Programme - Falcarragh RSS Area

Width Road ID Description Treatment Length (m) Total Cost (m) 2020-1 R-251-14 Back of Errigal Bitmac + SD 800 7.0 €140,000

2020-2 R-256 Muckish Road Bitmac + SD 800 4.5 €72,000

2020-3 L-1332-1 Owencarrow Road - Owencarrow Bridge to small bridge Restoration + SD 950 4.5 €85,500

2020-4 L-1262-3 Kilmacloo Road towards Glassan (Continuation of 2018 Works) Restoration + SD 1000 4.0 €80,000

Ballyboes - N56 @ Errarorey Junction to Crossroads at Scoilt 2020-5 L-10131 Restoration + SD 450 4.8 €34,560 Road Murroe Road - From N56 at Fawnmore toward Murroe National 2020-6 L-3263-2 Restoration + SD 1000 3.7 €59,200 School Cashel / Baltony Road - From Bitmac at Community Centre 2020-7 L-1123-1 Restoration + SD 750 5.0 €60,000 towards Baltoney

2020-8 L-1013-1 Ballyboes - Grotto road between 2 N56 Jcts Restoration + SD 1100 4.0 €70,696

2020-9 L-1272-1 Marblehill Road - From Shandon Entrance towards Faugher NS Restoration + SD 900 4.0 €75,000

RESERVE L-1093-1 Killult - N56 at Depot heading towards Gortahork direction Restoration + SD 1200 3.8 €72,000

Total €748,956 DRAFT Gweedore RSS Area

2020 Restoration Programme - Gweedore RSS Area

Length Road ID Description Treatment Width (m) Total Cost (m)

2020-1 R257-5 Meenaclady - Dixons Pub towards Glasserachoo Bitmac & SD 600 5.2 €78,000

2020-2 R-259-8 Keadew (Reg) - Continuation thru Kincasslagh Village Bitmac & SD 600 5.2 €78,000 Glen/Corveen Road - Continuation towards Friels Bridge and 2020-3 L-1173-2 Bitmac & SD 700 5 €70,000 onwards towards Lunniagh 2020-4 L-5473-1 Knockastollar Road - From junction with Dore Road Restoration & SD 800 4 €51,200

2020-5 L-1513-1 Glenahilt to Arlans / Cloughglass Restoration & SD 900 3.5 €50,400 Lough an Oran Road, Ranafast (Fr Dans Road lower) - 2020-6 L-5593-1 Restoration & SD 850 3.75 €51,000 Continuation of 2018 Works 2020-7 L-1443-2 Main Meenbannad Road Restoration & SD 800 5.7 €91,200

2020-8 R-257-15 Derrybeg Straight - at Crannog Bitmac & SMA 600 6.5 €97,500

2020-9 L-1373-1 Carrickataskin Road - Continuation of previous bitmac scheme Restoration & SD 800 3.5 €44,800

2020-10 L-1413-1 Main Ranafast Road Bitmac & SD 550 6 €80,856

RESERVE L-11732 Derryconner Bog Road Restoration & SD 1000 3.5 €56,000

Total €748,956 DRAFT Dungloe RSS Area

2020 Restoration Programme - Dungloe RSS Area

2020-1 R252-13 From Millwheel towards Fintown Bitmac + DSD 600 6 €90,000

2020-2 R250-17 From Mill Wheel to Seamus Boyles Bitmac + DSD 700 6.5 €113,750

2020-3 L1743-1 Caravan Road from Main Street to Stone House Bitmac + DSD 700 7 €122,500

2020-4 L6393-1 Farragans Road (Tony Cannons middle section) Delay Set + DSD 900 3.2 €57,600

2020-5 L1783-4 Doochary Derrylaconnell at Joe McHugh's Bitmac + DSD 450 4 €45,000

2020-6 L1733-2 Martin Duddy's Lough Salt Delay Set + DSD 1025 3.2 €65,150

2020-7 L1543-1 Fairhill to the Angle Road Bitmac + DSD 280 8 €56,000

2020-8 Scheme R252-18 Dungloe-Doochary-Owenmarve Bitmac + DSD 1300 6.1 €198,956

€748,956 DRAFT Ardara RSS Area

2020 Restoration Programme - Ardara RSS Area Length Road ID Description Treatment (m) Width (m) Subtotal

2020-1 R253-13 Glen Road at the Old Graveyard to Lab diversion road Bitmac +SD 550 5 €68,420

2020-2 R261-7 Maas Clooney at Cashelgolan hill Bitmac +SD 700 5 €87,500

2020-3 L2793 Gaelic Field Link Road Ardara Bitmac +SD 590 4 €59,000

2020-4 L1515-1 Carrickacleave Road Bitmac +SD 700 5.5 €96,250

2020-5 L2563-2 Tullymore from 2018 work DS +SD 600 4 €52,800

2020-6 L7953-1 Glencowall Road from N56 DS +SD 790 3.4 €59,068

2020-7 L2573-1 Loughcrillan - towards Meenalargan DS +SD 800 3.2 €56,320

2020-8 L6363-1 Derryloaghan towards Line road DS +SD 790 3.4 €59,092

2020-9 L7513-1 Dawros Point - towards the main road DS +SD 800 3 €52,800

2020 -10 R230-11 Glengesh at thatched cottage Bitmac +SD 700 4.5 €78,750

2020-11 L2883-2 Owentesnagh towards border DS +SD 785 4.5 €78,956

€748,956

11th FEBRUARY 2020

HOUSING AGENDA

1. Progress Report – Grants

2. Progress Report – Casual Vacancies

1. PROGRESS REPORT SOCIAL HOUSING PROGRAMME AT 05/02/2020

(a) Grants

Housing Aid for Older People Grants

Year Total Approved Cancelled/ Applicant Referred Pending Refused Further Info to Eng 2019 63 53 8 1 1 2 2020 1 0 0 0 1 1

Housing Adaptation Grants

Year Total Approved Cancelled/ Applicant Referred Referred Pending Refused Further Info to Eng to OT 2019 25 6 3 10 4 2 16 2020 1 0 1 0 0 0 0

Mobility Aids Grants

Year Total Approved Cancelled/ Applicant Referred Referred Pending Refused Further Info to Eng to OT 2019 48 27 12 4 1 4 9 2020 3 0 0 1 1 1 3

2. PROGRESS REPORT – CASUAL VACANCIES AT 5th FEBRUARY 2020

Glenties Address Beds Vacant Current Status MD From Annagry Lochán Mhuire 3 bed scheme 09/12/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Clós Naomh Duigh 1 bed, bungalow 06/01/2020 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Ardara Drumaghey Park 2 bed 19/07/2019 Works due to be complete this week Burtonport Altán 2 bed, 2 storey 25/07/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Altán 3 bed, 2 storey 08/08/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February An Choill 3 bed, 2 storey 02/10/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Creeslough Ard Cois Locha 2 bed 28/02/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Lakeside 3 bed 07/08/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Massinass 3 bed 03/12/2019 Unit to be assessed to determine next stage. Doochary Radharc an tSeipéil 2 bed, bungalow 16/09/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Dungloe Croveigh (LTL) 5 bed 26/04/2019 To be tendered Ard Chróine, Quay Rd 1 bed, bungalow 21/08/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Ard Mór 3 bed, specially 27/01/2020 Currently seeking adapted quotations. Deadline for receipt of quotations is 7th February. Derrybeg Clós Naomh Mhuire, 2 bed, bungalow 15/08/2019 Currently advertised Stranacorkra seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February Dunfanaghy Eadán Mór (LTL) 3 bed 18/04/2019 Tender documents to be issued. Falcarragh Carrowcannon 3 bed 01/03/2019 Currently advertised seeking tenders. Closing date for receipt of tenders 17th February

Housing Capital Update Report Glenties Municipal District Meeting

11th February 2020

1. Social Housing Developments – Construction Schemes

Donegal County Council is currently progressing the following proposed Social Housing development in the Glenties Municipal District:

Location Status No. of Units Tender Stage Dunfanaghy Tender receipt deadline was 31st of January 4 2020. Tenders currently being assessed.

In tandem with the above proposed development, the Council is actively pursuing the acquisition of lands suitable for housing purposes, in towns and villages where there is currently not a social housing solution available. In this regard, the Council has identified suitable lands in Dungloe which are currently advancing through the conveyance stage.

2. House Acquisition Programme

Donegal County Council has acquired, or is in the process of acquiring, properties under the House Acquisition Programme. In the Glenties Municipal District during 2018-2020 a total of 12 properties were purchased under this programme. There are 20 further acquisitions currently in progress including the acquisition of 8 no. apartments at Dunfanaghy, which are currently going through the conveyance stage.

Following acquisition and prior to allocation to applicants on the approved social housing list, improvement works are carried out on the properties to provide high quality, sustainable homes to individuals and families throughout the county.

3 Buy and Renew

In an effort to bring existing, older, vacant properties back in to productive use as social housing, the Council is currently progressing the acquisition of properties under the Buy & Renew Initiative. This Initiative not only aims to provide high quality homes to approved social housing applicants, it also targets vacancy rates and utilises existing properties and helps tackle dereliction.

4 Social Housing through Turnkey Acquisition

Donegal County Council’s turnkey acquisition process is continuing throughout the county. This competitive dialogue procurement process will result in a major capital investment in social housing, with the initial projects in the county due for completion in quarter 1 2020. This is a very effective mechanism enabling the Council to feed into the design of the proposal so as to ensure that the end product is suitable for the needs of social housing tenants.

In order to the safeguard the nature of the process and bearing in mind the commercial sensitivities of the process as well as the extent of the approvals required, the Council will continue to provide Elected Members with detailed information of the proposals upon receipt of final departmental approval (i.e. stage 4). Notwithstanding this approval, proposals are subject to contract.

Final approval has been received from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG) for Phase I of a turnkey development at Falcarragh. The 6 no. three bedroom units are substantially complete at Staisiun an Chuirt, Falcarragh and the Council is currently progressing the contract in conjunction with our legal representatives.

Council officials are continuing to dialogue with Developers with regard to additional valid proposals for Falcarragh and Gweedore and Members will be fully informed of these proposals upon receipt of final departmental approval.