(Public Pack)Agenda Document for Derry City and Strabane District Council, 26/09/2019 16:00

Meeting Pack Derry City and Strabane District Council

You are hereby summoned to attend the Monthly Meeting of the Derry City and Strabane District Council to be held in the Guildhall, Derry, on Thursday 26 September 2019 at 4.00 pm.

Yours faithfully

John Kelpie Chief Executive

AGENDA

1 Notice and Summons of Meeting

2 Member Attendance and Apologies

3 Webcasting Notice

4 Declarations of Members' Interests

Open for Decision

5 Chairperson's Business

6 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Meeting of the Derry City and Strabane District Council held on Thursday 18 July 2019 (Pages 1 - 42)

7 Matters Arising

8 Adoption of the Open Minutes of the following Committees

a Special Planning Committee held on Thursday 22 August 2019 (Pages 43 - 44)

b Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 3 September 2019 (Pages 45 - 96)

c Monthly Planning Committee held on Wednesday 4 September 2019 (Pages 97 - 118)

d Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 10 September 2019 (Pages 119 - 134)

e Monthly Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 11 September 2019 (Pages 135 - 158)

f Monthly Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 12 September 2019 (Pages 159 - 182)

9 Notices of Motion

Councillor McCloskey to Move:

This Council calls upon all elected MLAs to urgently set aside their differences on all other matters, and reconvene our devolved institutions, in order to prevent the removal of all legal protections from unborn children until the time of viability without the matter being legislated on by the Assembly.

The process which led to this section being passed into law by Westminster, although sought and lobbied for by some of our local MLAs, was deeply flawed, and has significant detrimental consequences for devolution, and for the people of Derry and Strabane District Council.

It undermines our already limited sovereignty, and the rights of people here to decide our own laws. It rides roughshod over the Good Friday Agreement, an international treaty, and makes a mockery of the democratic process.

And that this Council writes urgently to Secretary of State Julian Smith MP to indicate that this council opposes this legislation, calls for the legislation to be rescinded and demands that this issue be dealt with by the Assembly only.

Councillor R Barr to Move:

Derry City and Strabane District Council has a moral responsibility to protect public health and the local environment. Until there is more independent scientific consensus that 5G wireless radiation is harmless to humans and the

environment, Derry City and Strabane District Council adopts the precautionary principle and will not endorse the roll out of 5G.

Councillors Ferguson and McKinney to Move:

That this Council encourages and supports reconciliation in our community and congratulates the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and the Integrated Educations Fund on being nominated for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize.

Councillor Dobbins to Move:

That this Council expresses concern at the recent RQIA findings in the standard of care at Owen Mor Nursing Home.  Council recognises the concerns expressed by families at a recent public meeting.  Council opposes the privatisation of all social care services.  Council calls on Western Health and Social Care Trust to support staff and residents to ensure appropriate standards of care are met.  Council supports the families’ call for an enquiry.

Councillor McHugh to Move:

Go dtacóidh an Comhairle seo le tabhairt isteach reachtaíochta chun córas scar- rogha a thabhairt isteach do dheonú orgáin a leanfaidh treoir atá leagtha amach I dtabhairt isteach na reachtaíochta céanna sa Bhreatain Bheag (2015), in Albain agus I Sasanna (2020) agus a léirionn iarratais ón Aire Sláinte I ndeisceart na h’Éireann, Simon Harris TD, don reachtaíocht chéanna ansin.

This Council will support the introduction of soft opt-out organ donation legislation here in the North which will follow the example led by the introduction of the same legislation in Wales (2015), Scotland and England (2020) and the calls from the Minister of Health in the South of Ireland, Simon Harris TD, for the same to be introduced there.

Councillor Duffy to Move:

Roimh an chéad chruinniú eile den Chomhairle Eorpach ar an 17ú Deireadh Fómhair, an cruinniú mullaigh deiridh AE atá beartaithe roimh Brexit, d’fhonn aird a tharraingt ar an chontúirt do chearta saoránach, don eacnam uile-oileáin agus d’earnáil na talmhaíochta, i measc rudaí eile, iarrann muid ar Chomhairle Chathair Dhoire agus Cheantar an tSratha Báin árais na Comhairle a shoilsiú i mBuí agus Dubh ar an 16ú Deireadh Fómhair chun tacú le Pobail Teorann in aghaidh Brexit.

In advance of the next European Council meeting on October 17th, the last EU summit planned before Brexit, in an effort to highlight the dangers posed to

citizen’s rights, the all island economy, the agricultural sector among others, we call on Derry City and Strabane District Council to light up Council buildings in yellow and black on October 16th in support of Border Communities Against Brexit.

Councillor Harkin to Move:

Council supports real living wages, an end to zero hour contracts and the right to trade union representation in Derry and Strabane.

Council opposes Tory anti-trade union laws and encourages workers to join unions to demand respect and better terms and conditions.

Council celebrates the contribution workers’ rights campaigns have made to improve people’s lives past and present at work and in communities - and acknowledges the tremendous contribution and efforts made by campaigners from all backgrounds and communities across Derry and Strabane today in the pursuit of justice, equality and respect.

To this end, Council will host a ‘Workers Rights and Social Justice Week’ - the week preceding the May Day march and rally.

Councillor Durkan to Move:

This Council notes the contents of the Employers for Childcare NI’s 10th Annual Childcare Survey.

This Council recognises that childcare costs are creating barriers for working parents and their families.

This Council supports the Childcare for All Charter, calling for a universal, child- centred childcare system to meet the needs of children, parents, childcare providers and communities.

This Council calls for any restored Executive to prioritise legalisation for an affordable, accessible and high quality childcare system in its Programme for Government.

This Council resolves to write to political party leaders calling for support for 30 hours basic free childcare for working parents.

Tugann an Chomhairle seo an t-ábhar atá luaite sa 10ú Suirbhé Bliaintúil um Chúram Leanaí de chuid Fhostóirí le haghaidh Chúraim Leanaí o Thuaidh faoi deara.

Aithníonn an Chomhairle seo go bhfuil costais chúraim leanaí ag cruthú bacainní do thuismitheoirí atá ag obair agus dá dteaghlaigh.

Tacaíonn an Chomhairle seo leis an Chairt um Chúram Leanaí do Chách; éilíonn an Chairt go mbunófaí córas cúram leanaí atá uilíoch agus leanbhlárnach le riachtanais pháistí, thuismitheoirí, sholáthróirí cúram leanaí agus phobail a chomhlíonadh.

Iarrann an Chomhairle seo ar aon Fheidhmeannas ó Thuaidh a athbhunófaí le tús áite a thabhairt ina Chlár Rialtais do reachtaíocht um chóras cúraim leanaí ar ardchaighdeán atá inacmhainne agus inrochtana a chur ar fáil.

Socraíonn an Chomhairle seo ar scríobh chuig ceannairí na bpáirtithe polaitiúla chun tacaíocht ar son bhunchúraim leanaí 30 uair saor in aisce a chur ar fáil do thuismitheoirí a bhíonn ag obair.

Councillor J Barr to Move: This Council notes the huge contribution made to life in Strabane by Pat Gillespie, who died in August at the age of 102. This Council will agree that there will be no Grand Marshall at the 2020 St Patrick celebrations in Strabane in respect and honour of Pat Gillespie. This Council also agrees that the main stage for entertainment on St Patrick’s Day will be named the Pat Gillespie Stage.

Councillor McCann to Move:

Council supports the Day of Action on October 5th 2019 calling for an end to welfare reforms, the extension of benefit mitigation payments and the reversal of cuts to public services.

Council encourages people in Derry and Strabane from all backgrounds and communities to organise a people power movement to win these demands.

Council encourages the broadest support for and participation at the 3pm rally in Guildhall Square organised and supported by Derry Trades Union Council, Action Against Cuts, UNISON Community Branch, AEGIS, the Civil Rights for the 21st Century Committee, Alliance for Choice, Derry and Strabane Councillors and anti- poverty groups and campaigners.

Alderman Guy to Move:

That this Council notes recently published research from the charity CARE NI that found 445 attacks have been recorded on places of worship in Northern Ireland in just the last 3 years; notes with concern that 23 of these despicable attacks were

recorded in the Derry City & Strabane District Council policing area; unreservedly condemns all attacks on places of worship, no matter what faith or denomination, and upholds the important human right for individuals to be free to worship and live out their faith in this society. This Council also notes the operation of the Places of Worship Security Scheme in England and Wales and expresses regret that a similar scheme is not available in Northern Ireland; and therefore agrees to write to the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Office calling for the swift introduction of a similar scheme locally.

Councillor Harkin to Move:

Council opposes a Tory no deal Brexit.

Council opposes any attempt to impose a hard border in Ireland.

Council supports in full the call put forward by the Derry Trades Union Council in March 2019:

“As trade unionists we are opposed to any attempt to re-impose a hard border. This would represent a tremendous step backwards. We believe this reflects the opinion of the vast majority of people North and South and from all communities. A hard border would undercut workers’ rights and would threaten the interests of the vast majority of people here. As trade unions representing workers in border counties we understand the damage this would cause in people's day to day lives.

The Derry Trades Union Council is calling for the entire trade union movement across the island to join us in pledging to mobilise against any attempt to impose a hard border by using, if necessary, the best traditions of the labour movement - demonstrations, protests, strikes, walkouts and sit-downs. The trade union movement in its totality is the largest and most representative body across the island. This is the best way for us to voice our opinion on behalf of all ordinary people North and South.

More than one hundred years ago trade union leader James Connolly warned partition would create a 'carnival of reaction' on the island. For this reason he called on the labour movement to do all it could to mobilise against division. Today, we must not allow a hard border to become a source of renewed reaction and division. We want to go forward not backwards.

We urge trade unionists from all backgrounds and everyone in our communities to join us in pledging to oppose any attempt to impose a hard border that no one wants or supports."

Councillor Harkin to Move:

Following recent presentations to Council by representatives from the NI Housing Executive underlining the severity of the housing crisis in Derry and Strabane, that will be made worse by growing homelessness and the impact of welfare reform, Council reaffirms its support for the Housing Executive to have the ability to borrow in order to build new homes and to properly maintain and renovate its existing housing stock.

Further, Council calls upon all housing associations with properties in the District Area to declare the number of vacant properties in their ownership with the purpose of increasing the number of available and suitable homes in the area. Open for Information

10 Responses to Motions (Pages 183 - 246)

11 Resolutions from Other Councils (Pages 247 - 250)

12 Sealing List - September 2019 (Pages 251 - 252)

Confidential for Decision

13 Confirmation of the Confidential Minutes the Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on Thursday 18 July 2019 (Pages 253 - 260)

14 Confirmation of the Confidential Minutes of the Special Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on Tuesday 6 August 2019 (Pages 261 - 268)

15 Adoption of the Confidential Minutes of the Following Committees

a Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 3 September 2019 (Pages 269 - 270)

b Monthly Planning Committee Meeting held on Wednesday 4 September 2019 (Pages 271 - 276)

c Monthly Meeting of the Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 10 September 2019 (Pages 277 - 278)

d Monthly Meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 11 September 2019 (Pages 279 - 284)

e Month ly Meeting of the Health and Community Committee held on

Thursday 12 September 2019 (Pages 285 - 286)

16 Any Other Relevant Items

19 September 2019

Agenda Item 6

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Minutes of Monthly Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held in the Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Thursday 18 July 2019 at 4.00pm.

Present:- Councillor M Boyle (Mayor)(In the Chair); Aldermen Bresland Devenney, Kerrigan, McClintock, McCready and Warke; Councillors J Barr, R Barr, J Boyle, Burke, Carr, Cusack, Dobbins, Donnelly, Duffy, Durkan, Farrell, Fleming, Gallagher, Harkin, Hunter, Jackson, Kelly, Logue, McCann, McCloskey, McGuire, R McHugh, J McKeever, McKinney, McLaughlin, Mellon, Reilly and Tierney.

In Attendance:- Director of Business and Culture (Mr S Gillespie), Director of Environment and Regeneration (Mrs K Phillips), Lead Legal Services Officer (Mr P Kingston),Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer (Ms E Cavanagh), Democratic Services Officer (Mrs S Maxwell) and Committee Services Assistant (Mrs T Johnstone).

______

C180/19 Notice and Summons of Meeting

The Mayor read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.

C181/19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Director of Business and Culture completed the roll call and recorded apologies from Aldermen Guy, Bresland and Ramsey and Councillors Cooper and Ferguson.

C182/19 Webcast Announcement by the Mayor

The Mayor read the Webcast Announcement for the Meeting.

C183/19 Declaration of Members Interests

Councillor M Boyle declared an interest in Agenda Item 5 – Chairperson’s Business.

Open for Decision

C184/19 Suspension of Standing Orders – British and Irish Sign Language Charter

The Mayor welcomed members of the deaf community and a sign language interpreter who were seated in the public gallery. She stated

1 Page 1 that she wished to bring the agenda item forward to facilitate those who had been seated for quite some time. Councillor Reilly then proposed a Suspension of Standing Orders, Seconded by Alderman Devenney.

Alderman McCready also welcomed them in sign language.

Councillor M Boyle Proposed, Seconded by Alderman McCready

That standing orders be suspended to allow the notice of motion from Councillors Ferguson and McKinney to be brought forward.

After voting by a show of hands, the result was unanimous and the Mayor invited Councillor McKinney to address Members.

Councillors McKinney and Ferguson Moved, Seconded by Alderman McCready

That this Council signs up to the British/Irish Sign Language charter and that officers bring a paper to a future meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee regarding the relaying of Council meetings in British/Irish Sign Language.

After voting by a show of hands the result was unanimous and the Council

Resolved That this Council signs up to the British/Irish Sign Language charter and that officers bring a paper to a future meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee regarding the relaying of Council meetings in British/Irish Sign Language.

C185/19 Suspension of Standing Orders – Death of Mr Sammy Devenny

Councillor Donnelly Proposed a Suspension of Standing Orders, Seconded by Councillor Carr to allow consideration of a proposal.

After voting by a show of hands, the result was as follows:

For – 28; Against – 5; Abstentions 0.

The Proposal was carried and met the qualified majority threshold.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Donnelly to address the Chamber.

2 Page 2 Councillor Donnelly stated that a number of Elected Representatives had attended a service in St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of Mr Sammy Devenny. He stated that Mr Devenny died on 16 July 1969, three months after a brutal assault had been carried out on him and members of his family by the RUC at his home in William Street. He stated that the family maintain that Mr Devenny died as a result of the injuries he sustained during the assault. He stated that the results of an investigation carried out by the Metropolitan Police had not been fully released and that the decision to withhold certain files until 2022 was an obstacle to the Devenny family’s quest for justice. He proposed that Council add its’ voice to the growing call for the release of those files.

Councillor Donnelly Proposed, Seconded by Councillor Gallagher

This Council commends the courage and dignity shown by the family of the late Sammy Devenny in their campaign for truth and justice regarding the events that led to the death of their father. Furthermore this Council calls on the Metropolitan Police to release all files in relation to this case.

After voting by a show of hands, the result was as follows:

For – 28; Against – 0; Abstentions 5.

The Proposal was therefore carried and the Council

Resolved This Council commends the courage and dignity shown by the family of the late Sammy Devenny in their campaign for truth and justice regarding the events that led to the death of their father. Furthermore this Council calls on the Metropolitan Police to release all files in relation to this case.

Alderman Kerrigan joined the meeting at this point.

C186/19 Suspension of Standing Orders – Medical School at Magee

Councillor McCann Proposed a Suspension of Standing Orders, Seconded by Councillor Harkin to allow consideration of a proposal.

After voting by a show of hands, the result was unanimous and the Proposal was therefore carried.

3 Page 3 The Mayor then invited Councillor McCann to address the Chamber.

Councillor McCann stated that Lord Adonis had recently highlighted in the House of Lords, the great deal of disillusionment regarding university provision in Derry and stated that this was the result of discrimination from many years ago, which persisted to this day. He described as ‘unexpected’ the recent intervention by Lord Adonis when he successfully convinced the House of Lords to publish a report on university provision in the North and the establishment of a university whose principle campus would be located in Derry. He further stated that Lord Adonis noted the lack of action by the Ulster University.

Continuing, Councillor McCann refuted any suggestion that exploring alternative options would have a negative impact on Derry’s City Deal. He further stated that if a Medical School at Magee was approved it would still not reach the number of student intake required as promised by Ulster University. He stated that the motion would permit other ways forward for a sustainable university in the City and that other ways must be reviewed rather than depending on Ulster University bringing it to Derry.

Councillor McCann Moved, Seconded by Councillor Harkin

In light of the recent remarks of Lord Adonis on university provision in Derry and the North West and of the deepening disillusionment of many in Derry at the lack of progress on the promised delivery of a Medical School at Magee, Council believes all options for university provision in the North West should be explored, including the expansion at Magee and options put forward by other groups such as the Derry University Group.

After voting by a show of hands the result was unanimous and the Council

Resolved In light of the recent remarks of Lord Adonis on university provision in Derry and the North West and of the deepening disillusionment of many in Derry at the lack of progress on the promised delivery of a Medical School at Magee, Council believes all options for university provision in the North West should be explored, including the expansion at Magee

4 Page 4 and options put forward by other groups such as the Derry University Group.

Chairperson‟s Business

C187/19 Foyle Cup and Foyle Pride

The Mayor advised that the annual Foyle Cup event would commence on Monday 22 July 2019 with a parade in the City. She encouraged everyone to support the football teams taking part in the event.

She also advised that the Foyle Pride celebration would take place on 24 August 2019 and encouraged Members to show their support to the event.

C188/19 Tyrone win the Ulster U20

The Mayor extended congratulations on behalf of the Council to the Tyrone Under 20’s on winning the championship title at the weekend, particularly to Captain Ruairi Gormley who also played for Sigerson’s GAA Club. She stated that the team would be invited to a Mayoral reception to mark their prestigious win.

Councillor McGuire also extended his congratulations to the team, particularly Shay Gallagher who was a member of Aghyaran St Davog’s GFC.

C189/19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held in Thursday 27 June 2019

The Minutes of the Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on 27 June 2019 (C127/19-C171/19) were submitted.

Councillor Tierney Moved, Councillor J Boyle Seconded and the Council.

Resolved that the above Minutes be adopted, as a true record of the Meeting

Matters Arising

C190/19 Elected Member Support Services: Meeting/Workstation Facilities (C144/19)

5 Page 5 Councillor Harkin stated that Councillor Donnelly had attempted to submit a call-in regarding this item as he and other Members had not heard the recommendation being endorsed. However, the Lead Legal Services Officer had advised that the request had been submitted late and could therefore not be accepted. He stated that no discussion had taken place with Members of People Before Profit (PBP) regarding the allocation of rooms and furthermore, they had not agreed to the recommendation. He stated that in his opinion, the larger parties had been allocated rooms whilst the smaller parties and Independent Members were required to share office space.

In response, the Lead Legal Services Officer advised that the Democratic Services Directorate were currently in the process of making arrangements to ensure that meeting space would be made available on a booking basis for the Alliance, PBP, Aontú and Independent Members, as and when required.

Councillor Donnelly concurred with the remarks made by Councillor Harkin and stated that Members from the UUP, PBP and the Independent grouping believed that they had been within the appropriate time period to submit a call-in on the matter. However, they were advised that it was too late for submission. He expressed his disappointment on the matter and stated that in his opinion, there was an unwillingness by the larger parties to offer appropriate office space to the smaller parties. He suggested a rescinding of the proposal which required agreement from at least 12 Elected Members and asked for legal clarification on the matter.

In response, the Lead Legal Services advised that a rescinding motion had to be brought forward with prior notice, therefore it could be considered at the September meeting of Council.

Councillor Reilly stated that the matter had previously been deferred from the meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee on 4 June 2019. He stated that the larger parties had agreed at that meeting to defer until full Council so that all 40 Elected Members could discuss the matter. He described the suggestion that smaller parties were being forced out by larger parties as ‘nonsense’. He stated that at the Council meeting held on 27 June, the opportunity had arose for all 40 Members to discuss the matter and as the minutes from that meeting had indicated, Members agreed unanimously to endorse the recommendation for Appendix 2, Option 2. He stated that a number of options had been presented at the Governance and Strategic Planning

6 Page 6 Committee meeting and that Committee members had agreed that Appendix 2, Option 2 was the most suitable as it laid out the method of dealing with available office space in a way that would be most cost effective for the rate payer. He further stated that Members had two opportunities to brief themselves on the matter. However, having heard the previous remarks, he suggested that if it was of benefit and assistance to Members, that officers consider further options and present a report to the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting in September.

Councillor Duffy stated that a discussion had taken place on the matter and that she was confused as to how some Members had not heard it taking place. She further stated that the meeting papers had stated that the matter would be discussed at Council.

Councillor Gallagher stated he would make use of the Independent Members’ office, if and when he required it.

Councillor Durkan stated that as a Member of one of the larger parties, she had also not been aware of the matter being discussed and hoped that it was not a reflection of a lack of diligence on her part. She stated that larger parties should be part of the solution and that she did not think it satisfactory if Members would not have equal access to facilities.

Councillor McKinney concurred that all parties and Independent Members should have access to the same facilities.

The Mayor stated that Members had been given the opportunity to discuss the matter with party leaders and Council officials. She stated that in her opinion, it was not the case that larger parties were attempting to ‘lock’ Members from rooms. She stated that if Members had issues with the matter, there had been opportunities for them to raise it at the June meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee and at full Council. She stated that officers were dealing with the matter and that there was an opportunity throughout the recess period to resolve any issues. She further stated that Members needed to take responsibility on such matters going forward and to pay attention to business under discussion at Committees and Council.

Councillor Reilly concurred that if any Members had raised concerns to approach officers or indeed SDLP members on the matter over the summer period. He reiterated that if larger parties had been

7 Page 7 attempting to block smaller parties then the recommendation would have been endorsed at the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting and that the SDLP respected the mandate of all 40 Elected Representatives.

C191/19 Welfare Reform (C164/19)

Councillor Harkin referred to the Motion and asked for an update regarding the recommendation to convene a meeting with the relevant parties. He stated that it was a matter of urgency that the meeting be convened due to the repercussions of welfare reforms on the people throughout the City and District. He stated that he had contacted officers regarding the matter and was awaiting a response.

The Mayor advised that all the key partners had been identified and that Members would be notified of an agreed date for the meeting. She stated that officers would action this as soon as possible and for Members to make themselves available throughout the recess.

Councillor Donnelly asked that Members receive a list of those key partners that have been contacted on the matter.

C192/19 Correspondence from DfE on Mineral Prospecting Licensing Application Consultation Response (C150/19)

The Lead Legal Services Officer advised that the requested legal opinion regarding the above matter was received by Council on Tuesday 16 July 2019, therefore no ample opportunity was available to present a formal paper on the matter and that he would advise Members of the opinion in confidential business.

C193/19 Climate Change (C167/19)

Councillor Harkin referred to Councillor McCann’s Motion that had been passed and asked for an update regarding the proposal to set up a multi-agency team to tackle climate change. He stated that Members had also agreed to support the global strike to take place on 20 September 2019 and stressed the urgency of creating the multi-agency team.

In response, the Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that Officers where working on the matter. She referred to a further motion that had been passed in relation to climate change were it had been agreed that a working group be established. She advised that

8 Page 8 nominations had been received in respect of this. In the meantime officers were considering potential partners to become part of the multi-agency team and this would be presented at the Members Working Group for discussion and have it established as quickly as possible.

Councillor Harkin stated that whilst he appreciated the response, in his opinion some motions had been given priority over others and asked that more urgency be given on this particular matter. He asked that Members receive the list of bodies and organisations that had been contacted as soon as possible.

C194/19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Special Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held in Thursday 4 July 2019

The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on 4 July 2019 (SC31/19-SC37/19) were submitted.

Councillor Duffy Moved, Councillor J Boyle Seconded and the Council.

Resolved that the above Minutes be adopted, as a true record of the Meeting

Matters Arising

C195/19 Appointment of Members to External Bodies (SC36/19)

Alderman McClintock advised that Alderman Warke would replace Alderman Devenney on the Derry and Strabane Local Action Group.

C196/19 Special Environment and Regeneration Committee Meeting held on Wednesday 26 June 2019

The Minutes of the Special Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 26 June 2019 (SER6/19-SER10/19) were submitted.

On a matter of accuracy, Councillor Tierney stated that he had attended the meeting, however he was not recorded on the attendance list.

Councillor Jackson Moved, Seconded by Councillor McKeever and the Council

Resolved that the above minutes be adopted, as amended, as a true record of the Meeting

Matters Arising from the Minutes

9 Page 9 C197/19 To receive representatives from DfI (Roads Western Division) to discuss the 2019/2020 Annual Report-Spring (SER10/19)

Councillor Logue stated that the proposed parking scheme at the Rossville Street area of the Bogside has been postponed until 2020. She stated that it was a major problem for people residing in the Bogside and surrounding area and were patiently waiting for parking solutions from the Department. She stated that it was important for this pilot scheme to be implemented as soon as possible and proposed that a letter be sent to the Department for Infrastructure to request a meeting with Members on the matter.

In response, the Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that a letter would be sent to the Department for Infrastructure inviting them to speak to Members on the matter. She also suggested inviting local residents from the area to the meeting.

Councillor Reilly advised that the DfI had noted that parking schemes intended for other areas throughout the City and District were dependent on the results of the pilot scheme in the Bogside. He stated that it was important that other areas such as Chapel Road and the area around Ulster University at Magee were included in the letter.

Councillor Carr requested that he be kept informed of the situation as he is a resident of the area.

Councillor Logue Proposed, Seconded by Councillor Reilly

That this Council send a letter to the Department for Infrastructure to request a meeting to discuss the postponement of the proposed parking scheme at the Rossville Street area of the Bogside and also other areas throughout the City and District.

Members unanimously agreed and the Council

Resolved That this Council send a letter to the Department for Infrastructure to request a meeting to discuss the postponement of the proposed parking scheme at the Rossville Street area of the Bogside and also other areas throughout the City and District.

10 Page 10 C198/19 Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 2 July 2019

The Minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on 2 July 2019 (GSP76/19-GSP89/19) were submitted.

Matters Arising from the Minutes

C199/19 Elected Member Support Services: Meeting/Workstation Facilities (GSP87/19)

The Lead Legal Services Officer stated that a request should have been put forward that delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive to deal with any matters that may arise during recess in consultation with the Mayor and Chairs of relevant Committees as appropriate.

Councillor McGuire Proposed, Seconded by Alderman Bresland and the Council

Resolved That Council approve delegation powers to the Chief Executive (or his nominee) to act on behalf of Council when required to do so, during summer recess.

C200/19 Suspension of Standing Orders – Paramilitary Flags and Banners (GSP79/19)

Councillor Donnelly stated that he had reservations regarding the proposal carried at the meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee on 2 July 2019 regarding flags and banners. He stated that there were a number of banners erected in the Bogside area promoting a range of local businesses and expressed concern towards the repercussions towards this type of advertising if the proposal was passed.

Councillor McCann stated that the wording of the proposal should be carefully considered as in his opinion, Council would be handing over control to a government department regarding what banners and placards can be erected at particular locations. He further stated that banners deemed as offensive to any section of the community should be removed as this was a matter of principle and not aimed at a particular community.

11 Page 11 Councillor Jackson stated that Sinn Féin had supported the motion presented before the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee and continued to support it. He stated that the motion challenged the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to take action regarding flags and banners that caused division and hurt to people throughout the Council area. He further stated that he had been contacted on a regular basis by residents from the Waterside area who had felt intimidated by flags and banners erected outside their homes. He stated that the residents believed it was deliberate intimidation and that the DfI needed to take action on such matters. He further stated that the DfI response to the matter was unacceptable and that the motion goes some way in bringing a level of accountability to them.

Councillor Reilly reiterated his comments made at the meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee that the DfI routinely took action against local businesses advertising on their public street furniture, therefore why not uphold the law when considering paramilitary flags and items designed to offend. He stated that a banner advertising a concert was erected in the same spot as a Parachute Regiment flag at Caw Roundabout. He stated that the DfI would remove the sign advertising an event but would not remove the flag erected to create offence rather than promote events. He stated that small businesses throughout the City and District were feeling the impact of the actions taken by the DfI, yet those wanting to offend people were not.

Councillor Harkin stated that PBP would not be supporting the motion. He referred to section 2 of the proposal, ‘all banners without planning permission on Department for Infrastructure property, unless permission is granted with protocols that protect citizens.’ He stated that this did not solely attribute to Soldier F banners or Parachute Regiment flags that were erected to cause pain to the victims of that regiment. He stated that his party had clearly demanded that Soldier F banners and Parachute Regiment flags be removed.

The Mayor advised that the motion had been voted on and passed at the Council meeting held on 27 June 2019 and whilst she respected and appreciated comments on the matter, it had already been passed.

Councillor Harkin advised that the motion had been approved at the meeting, however it had not been agreed upon at Council.

12 Page 12 Councillor Duffy referred to the use of WebEx at a recent Special Council meeting and enquired if it could be used at future Council meetings.

The Director of Business and Culture stated that he would pass on the request to the relevant department.

At this point in the meeting, the Mayor reminded Members that vaping was not permitted within the Chamber.

Councillor Harkin Proposed an Amendment to the Motion, Seconded by Councillor McCann

This Council condemns the display of offensive banners and paramilitary flags across Derry, Strabane and the North. The recent erection of banners such as „Support Soldier F‟ and parachute regiment flags which give great offence to the victims of the parachute regiment

That this Council takes legal action against the Department for Infrastructure, enforcing them to remove:

Support for Soldier F banners, and other such materials which have served to retraumatise victims of the paratroopers that erected on DfI property.

This Council also notes that any legal obligations placed on the Department resulting from this legal action will be binding across all council areas in the six counties. In the meantime, Council considers what action it can take under the Clean Neighbourhood Act 2011.

Councillor Donnelly stated that he sought clarity from Councillor Harkin regarding banners that could cause offence and referred to posters and banners erected to notify people of events such as republican commemorative events and asked if these would be included.

Councillor Harkin stated that he took the comments raised on board and outlined that the motion related specifically to the Soldier F banners and Parachute Regiment flags. He then a requested a short recess to discuss the matter.

Members agreed and after a short recess;

Councillor Harkin Proposed an Amendment to the Motion, Seconded by Councillor McCann

13 Page 13 That this Council takes legal action against the Department for Infrastructure, enforcing them to remove:

Support „for Soldier F‟ banners, and other such materials which have served to retraumatise victims of the Paratroopers that erected on DfI property.

Councillor McKinney stated that the Alliance party felt that the erection of flags and banners should not be flown in shared spaces.

Councillor Reilly stated that his party would not be supporting the amendment as all reference to paramilitary flags had been removed. He stated that the motion presented at Governance and Strategic Planning included an all-encompassing text to show that regardless of background, anything put on a lamppost to create offence should be removed. He noted that Belfast City Council had agreed to take action against the DfI which will take place regardless of what was agreed at the meeting. He stated that this proposal would put a burden on the rate payer as Belfast had already agreed to take legal action against DfI and that any outcome of that legal action would have an impact on all eleven councils.

Alderman McClintock stated that there were many who would say that they were exercising their right to show support for Soldier F, however accepted that there would be different views from Members in the Chamber. She further stated that the Parachute Regiment flag was not paramilitary or illegal and described it as convenient for Councillors from the Waterside area of the City to refer to these flags whilst dissident republican flags were flown in the area known as the Top of the Hill. She added that she did not support the flying of paramilitary flags however reiterated that the flag of the Parachute Regiment was not a paramilitary flag.

Councillor Jackson concurred with the sentiments expressed by Councillor Reilly and stated that Sinn Fein would not be supporting the amendment. He stated that the proposal was initially presented because of the hurt and division caused by offensive material erected

14 Page 14 on lampposts and street furniture throughout the Council area and that the DfI had a responsibility to act accordingly.

Continuing, he referred to comments made by Alderman McClintock and stated that she was correct that people had the right to exercise support towards Soldier F. However, those particular flags and banners had been erected at particular interfaces throughout the communities to deliberately cause offence. Therefore he believed that only a small element were exercising their right as he had been contacted by residents of the Waterside area regarding the blatant intimidation shown by the flying of those banners and flags.

Councillor Reilly also referred to comments made by Alderman McClintock and stated that in relation to action taken by the nationalist community regarding flags and emblems erected in nationalist areas, that the SDLP along with others, actively worked to have them removed.

Councillor McCann stated that it was his belief that there was a specific difference in the Soldier F case in comparison to all other cases and that he would have been satisfied if the proposal had solely referred to the removal of Soldier F banners and Parachute Regiment flags. He referred to comments made by Alderman McClintock and concurred that people had a right to show their support. However the notion that the parachute regiment flag not being a paramilitary flag somehow made it more acceptable, did not withstand the examination of the record of the Parachute Regiment over the years throughout Northern Ireland. He referred to Mr Richard McKinney and Mr Robert Johnston who were killed by Paratroopers, including Soldier F, on 7 September 1972 on the Lower Shankill Road. Therefore the idea that support for Soldier F could be associated with one particular community was nonsense. He stated that Soldier F was no friend of the Protestant community and was an enemy of anyone from any background in the North of Ireland. He stated that the comments were made by Lord Savile and were privileged by law. He further stated that Lord Savile had remarked on the paratroopers involved in Bloody Sunday with the exception of Private T, ‘that all of the Paratroopers knowingly put forward false accounts in order to seek to justify their firing’. Concluding, he stated that he would happily agree that all charges be withdrawn against Soldier F and to all the Paratroopers who opened fire on Bloody Sunday if the senior officers who sent Soldier F and his comrades into

15 Page 15 the Bogside, knowing what was expected from them where held accountable.

Councillor Harkin Proposed an Amendment to the Motion, Seconded by Councillor McCann

That this Council takes legal action against the Department for Infrastructure, enforcing them to remove:

Support „for Soldier F‟ banners, and other such materials which have served to retraumatise victims of the Paratroopers that were erected on DfI property.

After voting by a show of hands on the Amendment, the result was as follows;

For – 5; Against – 27; Abstentions – 2.

The Amendment therefore fell.

In response to a query by Councillor Harkin, the Mayor advised that no vote would be taken on the original proposal as it had previously been endorsed at the meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee.

Councillor Gallagher remarked that a proposal could be put forward not to adopt that particular item within the minutes.

Councillor Gallagher Proposed, Seconded by Councillor Donnelly

That Minute item GSP 79/19 Suspension of Standing Orders – Paramilitary Flags and Banners does not be ratified as part of the minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting held on 2 July 2019.

Councillor Reilly stated that if the minute item was not ratified, as a result, Council were not taking any action in relation to the removal of paramilitary flags for the support of Soldier F. He stated that he could not support that Council take no action regarding this issue. He noted that members of the Bloody Sunday families had been present in the

16 Page 16 public gallery who were hurt by those flags in support for Soldier F being displayed across the City and District. He stated that the families had been satisfied that Members had agreed to take action on the matter at the meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee. However, Members were now considering a situation were no action would be taken. He stated that the SDLP could not support this decision as they were supporting the adoption of the minutes that had previously been agreed.

Councillor Donnelly stated that Councillor Harkin had just presented a motion that dealt solely with Soldier F flags and banners and that Councillor Reilly had voted against it. He stated that he had previously outlined his concerns regarding the original motion where it stated ‘all banners without permission.’

In response, Councillor Reilly stated that the outworking of the proposal not to ratify that minute item by Councillor Gallagher would result that the Council would take no action in relation to flags and banners in support of Soldier F and the Parachute Regiment.

Councillor Duffy concurred with the sentiments expressed by Councillor Reilly and stated that there was a proposal calling for the DfI to address the flying of offensive paramilitary flags and banners. He stated that Members had the opportunity to deal with the matter appropriately. She enquired if a particular item could be separated from the minutes to be voted upon.

Councillor Gallagher stated that non-adoption of minutes in the entirety or in part had been carried out on many occasions in the past. He stated that his call for this particular minute item not to be adopted was because of concerns regarding Council property, for instance the City Cemetery. He explained that flags were flown in the cemetery to commemorate events such as the Easter Rising and stated that families of the volunteers would be upset if these were removed.

Councillor Gallagher Proposed, Seconded by Councillor Donnelly

That Minute item GSP 79/19 Suspension of Standing Orders – Paramilitary Flags and Banners is not ratified as part of the minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting held on 2 July 2019.

17 Page 17 After a request by Councillor Donnelly for a recorded vote, the result was as follows:

For – Councillors Donnelly and Gallagher (2)

Against – Aldermen Bresland, Devenney, Kerrigan, McClintock, McCready and Warke; Councillors J Barr, R Barr, J Boyle, M Boyle, Burke, Carr, Cusack, Dobbins, Duffy, Durkan, Farrell, Fleming, Hunter, Jackson, Kelly, Logue, McGuire, McHugh, McKeever, McLaughlin, Mellon, Reilly and Tierney (29)

Abstentions – Councillors Harkin, McCann, McCloskey and McKinney (4)

The Amendment therefore fell.

Councillor Reilly Proposed, Seconded by Councillor J Boyle and the Council

Resolved that the above minutes be adopted as a true record of the meeting.

C201/19 Monthly Planning Committee held on Wednesday 3 July 2019

The Minutes of the Planning Committee held on 3 July 2019 (P72/19- P88/19) were submitted.

Councillor Kelly Moved, Seconded by Councillor J Barr and the Council

Resolved that the above minutes be adopted as a true record of the Meeting

Matters Arising from the Minutes

C202/19 Reconsidered Applications Deferred (P77/19)

Councillor Kelly stated that a number of reconsidered applications were deferred as a result of not having the required quorum in order to make a determination on those applications. He stated that it was no fault of the applicant that those applications had to wait until a quorum had been reached. He enquired if a special Planning meeting could be scheduled to deal with the matter in order for people to progress their building work before the winter months.

In response, the Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that the Chair of the Planning Committee had agreed with this recommendation and would be happy to have a date organised for as soon as possible.

18 Page 18 Councillor Gallagher stated that not all members of the Planning Committee could be called to consider the matter.

Councillor J Boyle concurred that not everyone on the Planning Committee had heard the applications. However the Planning Committee still required a quorum. He requested that the meeting take place sooner rather than later due to the holiday period.

The Lead Legal Services Officer advised that the summons for the meeting must be issued to all Members of the Planning Committee and it would be a matter for Members to decide if they could participate in the discussion. He stated that officers would make enquiries in advance to ensure the quorum committee would be able to attend.

C203/19 Planning Applications List with Recommendation for Decision (P83/19)

Councillor Tierney referred to LA11/2019/0152/F - Mobile unit of accommodation as a potting shed/workshop with a toilet and sink. Extended fencing and site curtilage. This proposal is associated with the existing site use at lands to the rear of Nos 21 to 28 (inclusive) Leafair Park, Derry.

He stated that Members had been handed a letter from concerned residents of Leafair Park regarding the above planning application that had been passed at the Planning Committee meeting held on 3 July 2019. He noted that the letter stated that the Planning Committee did not have access to their petition or hear their concerns prior to the approval of the proposal. He advised Members however that all information lodged with that particular application was available to Councillors when the decision had been made.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration confirmed that the Head of Planning had advised that a Planning Officer had re-read the planning report and the objection and petition referenced in the report which had been considered by Members.

Councillor Harkin stated that as a Member of the Planning Committee it was not a clear objection and people did not see the petition. He stated that it was his understanding that residents wished to address the Planning Committee on the matter but were not given the opportunity to do so.

19 Page 19 In response, the Lead Legal Services Officer stated that it was his understanding that the petition was specifically referenced within the report on this particular item.

Councillor McCann referred to protocols and procedures regarding planning applications and stated that the residents of Leafair Park, were very discontented at not being given the opportunity to relay their objections to the Committee. He suggested that Members and Officers meet with the residents regarding the matter.

Councillor Jackson stated that the information regarding that particular application had been available to all Members prior to the meeting. He stated that the resident’s concerns and the petition were included in the report and that Officers had went through each issue that had been raised as an objection and had made a recommendation. The Committee subsequently endorsed the officers’ recommendation. He requested legal advice on the matter as he was of the understanding that the decision of the Planning Committee was final.

In response, the Lead Legal Services Officer advised that in relation to planning applications, the Planning Committee had full delegated powers, therefore the decision made by the Committee did not fall for further consideration at Council.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration suggested that a meeting could be arranged between officers and residents if Members were in agreement.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration then advised Members that due to the short timeframe for the production of the Local Development Plan, it was envisaged that a Special meeting of the Planning Committee would take place on 23 September 2019. She stated that due to the close proximity of this meeting to the full Council meeting on 26 September, Members would not be issued with the minutes as per the normal advance notice period. She advised however that Standing Order 14 (1) allowed the shortened advance notice of the minutes in cases of extreme urgency which was required in support to the publication of the Local Development Plan.

C204/19 Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 9 July 2019

20 Page 20 The Minutes of the Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 9 July 2019 (BC85/19 – BC102/19) were submitted.

Councillor J Barr Moved, Seconded by Councillor Logue and the Council

Resolved that the above minutes be adopted as a true record of the Meeting

C205/19 Monthly Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 10 July 2019

The Minutes of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 10 July 2019 (ER126/19 – ER149/19) were submitted.

Councillor Duffy Moved, Seconded by Councillor Tierney and the Council

Resolved that the above minutes be adopted as a true record of the Meeting

Matters Arising from the Minutes

C206/19 Christmas Lights Update (ER145/19)

Councillor Carr stated that he had requested that a Christmas tree be provided in the Strathfoyle area this year but could not make a proposal as he was not a member of the Committee. He also extended his thanks to officers on their prompt response on the matter.

Councillor Carr Proposed, Seconded by Councillor Donnelly

That Council provide a Christmas tree at Strathfoyle this Christmas.

Members unanimously agreed and the Council

Resolved That Council provide a Christmas tree at Strathfoyle this Christmas.

Councillor Hunter left the meeting at this point due to Deputy Mayoral engagements.

Councillor Dobbins stated that the Culmore Road area at Muff was the main thoroughfare to Donegal and asked that a Christmas tree be considered for that area to welcome visitors from Donegal and beyond.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that officers would take those comments on board. However, budgets had been set

21 Page 21 for this financial year and that any additional decorations or lighting would incur an additional cost not available for this year. She advised that if Members wished to set aside an additional sum at the rates estimates process the budget could then be increased.

Councillor Logue noted that other small villages and settlements throughout the City and District had no provision for Christmas lights or decorations. She stated that it may be in the interests of equality that a report be presented at a future meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee for consideration.

In response, the Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that a report would be presented at a future meeting on the matter.

Councillor Carr referred to remarks made by Councillor Logue. He stated that a report on the matter had previously been discussed at the meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee which included villages and border areas throughout the City and District.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that it was her understanding that Members required a further report to include potential additional areas for consideration. She stated that officers would present a report to include costs for Members to consider at the Rates Estimates process.

C207/19 Monthly Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 11 July 2019

The Minutes of the Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 11 July 2019 (HC113/19-HC139/19) were submitted.

On a matter of accuracy (Ref HC115/19), Councillor Farrell stated that he did not declare an interest on the PCSP Board.

It was agreed that the minutes would be amended accordingly.

Councillor McHugh Moved, Seconded by Alderman Warke and the Council

Resolved that the above minutes be adopted, as amended, as a true record of the Meeting.

Matters Arising from the Minutes

22 Page 22 C208/19 Nomination of Political Members to sit on Shortlisting and Interview Panels for the Appointment of PCSP Independent Members (HC131/19)

Alderman Devenney (DUP) was nominated as a Political Representative to sit on the Shortlisting and Interview Panel.

Notices of Motion

C209/19 Animal Cruelty

Councillor Cusack Moved, Seconded by Councillor McLaughlin

That This Council condemns animal cruelty in all forms; notes the effective framework for punishing offenders and imposing appropriate sentences which serve as a deterrent to others; recognises the work of the USPCA in challenging cruel behaviour toward animals as well as supporting rehoming initiatives for those animals that have suffered abuse or neglect; further notes with concern that there is no central register of those convicted of animal cruelty offences and; resolves to write to the Permanent Secretary at the Department of Justice, and the British and Irish Governments to raise these concerns and propose a central all-island register for animal abusers.

After voting by a show of hands the result was unanimous and the and Council

Resolved That this Council condemns animal cruelty in all forms; notes the effective framework for punishing offenders and imposing appropriate sentences which serve as a deterrent to others; recognises the work of the USPCA in challenging cruel behaviour toward animals as well as supporting rehoming initiatives for those animals that have suffered abuse or neglect; further notes with concern that there is no central register of those convicted of animal cruelty offences and; resolves to write to the Permanent Secretary at the Department of

23 Page 23 Justice, and the British and Irish Governments to raise these concerns and propose a central all-island register for animal abusers.

C210/19 Foyle Pride Week

Councillor Duffy Moved, Seconded by Councillor McCann

That this Council recognises the huge positive contribution made by our LGBTQ+ Citizens right across the City and District.

To build on the support already shown by Derry City and Strabane District Council to the annual Foyle Pride Festival and in a show of solidarity to the LGBTQ+ community, this Council will light up the Council buildings, where this is possible, annually during Foyle Pride Week. Alderman McCready maintained that an agreed procedure was required in relation to the lighting up of buildings. He noted that those requests incurred costs and queried if there was a budget allocated. He requested that a report be brought to the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee. Councillor Harkin Proposed an Amendment, Seconded by Councillor McCann That this Council recognises the huge positive contribution made by our LGBTQ+ Citizens right across the City and District.

To build on the support already shown by Derry City and Strabane District Council to the annual Foyle Pride Festival and in a show of solidarity to the LGBTQ+ community, this Council will light up the Council buildings and display rainbow flags on Council buildings where this is possible, annually during Foyle Pride Week. Alderman Devenney referred to the Amendment and asked for legal advice regarding erecting flags on Council buildings.

In response, the Lead Legal Services Officer advised that the former Derry City Council had a flags policy and the former Strabane District Council had a slightly different policy in relation to that matter. He stated that as the positions were slightly different between the two

24 Page 24 former Council areas, the Amendment specified that the displaying of rainbow flags on Council buildings would be carried out in line with current policy and that Members would have an opportunity to have a broader consideration of the policy going forward.

After voting by a show of hands the result on the Amendment the result was as follows:

For- 27; Against – 7; Abstentions – 0; The Amendment was therefore carried and subsequently became the Substantive Motion. That this Council recognises the huge positive contribution made by our LGBTQ+ Citizens right across the City and District.

To build on the support already shown by Derry City and Strabane District Council to the annual Foyle Pride Festival and in a show of solidarity to the LGBTQ+ community, this Council will light up the Council buildings and display rainbow flags on Council buildings where this is possible, annually during Foyle Pride Week.

After voting by a show of hands on the Substantive Motion the result was as follows:

For – 27; Against – 0; Abstentions – 7;

The Motion was therefore carried and the Council

Resolved that this Council recognises the huge positive contribution made by our LGBTQ+ Citizens right across the City and District.

To build on the support already shown by Derry City and Strabane District Council to the annual Foyle Pride Festival and in a show of solidarity to the LGBTQ+ community, this Council will light up the Council buildings and display rainbow flags on Council buildings where this is possible, annually during Foyle Pride Week.

C211/19 Motor Neurone Disease Charter

25 Page 25 Councillor Kelly Moved, Seconded by Councillor McGuire

That this Council adopt the Motor Neurone Disease Charter.

Councillor J Boyle suggested that the Northern Ireland Motor Neurone Disease Association be invited to speak at the relevant committee to highlight issues regarding the disease.

After voting by a show of hands the result was unanimous and Council

Resolved That this Council adopt the Motor Neurone Disease Charter.

Alderman Bresland left the meeting at this point.

C212/19 Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee

Councillor McHugh Moved, Seconded by Councillor Mellon

That This Council calls on the Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee to divest the local government pension scheme from fossil fuel companies.

Further this Council calls on the Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee to bring forward an ethical investment policy and desist from investment in tobacco and arms companies.

After voting by a show of hands the result was unanimous and Council

Resolved That this Council calls on the Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee to divest the local government pension scheme from fossil fuel companies.

Further this Council calls on the Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee to bring forward an ethical investment policy and desist from investment in tobacco and arms companies.

C213/19 „Go Green for Mito‟

Councillor Mellon Moved, Seconded by Councillor McHugh

26 Page 26 That this Council approves the lighting up of our Council offices and Guildhall in tandem with other landmarks across the world from the 16- 22 September to “Go Green for Mito.”

This is a globally supported campaign that raises awareness, educates and supports those faced with mitochondrial disease.

In response to a query raised by Alderman Kerrigan regarding a policy in relation to the lighting up of Council buildings, the Mayor advised that a report would be presented to the relevant Committee.

After voting by a show of hands the result was unanimous and the Council

Resolved That this Council approves the lighting up of our Council offices and Guildhall in tandem with other landmarks across the world from the 16- 22 September to “Go Green for Mito.”

This is a globally supported campaign that raises awareness, educates and supports those faced with mitochondrial disease.

C214/19 Industrial Action by NIPSA

Councillor Harkin Moved, Seconded by Councillor McCann

That Council views workers‟ rights as intrinsic to a democratic and just society. The struggle for workers‟ rights unites rather than divides communities. In Derry and Strabane and elsewhere, poverty wages and disrespect for labour are widespread. Public and private sector workers, including civil servants, have had to rely on foodbanks to survive.

Derry City and Strabane Council stands in solidarity with civil servant members of NIPSA who have voted to take industrial action on July 26th.

Council agrees that the workers concerned should receive an above-inflation pay increase and pay restoration. Council opposes attacks on workers‟

27 Page 27 terms and conditions. Council supports NIPSA's demand for contract negotiations to be reopened.

Council calls for solidarity with the July 26 strike and with whatever further action the workers involved feel it necessary to take to secure their contract demands.

Council agrees to write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance to convey Council's support of these demands.

Councillor Harkin requested a Suspension of Standing Orders to permit a representative of NIPSA to speak to Members on the motion.

The Mayor stated that after seeking legal advice on the matter that this could not be permitted at a meeting of Council.

Councillor Harkin stated that it was his understanding that Members made the ultimate decisions within the Chamber and that no reference was given as to why a representative from NIPSA was not permitted to speak. He stated that he hoped Members would support him to allow the representative to inform Members on their proposed strike action.

The Mayor referred to section 8.2 and 8.3 of Standing Orders, ‘that public and press may attend in only those parts of the Council Chamber provided for their accommodation at meetings of the Council unless specifically excluded under the provision of Standing Order 9 or as required by the Council to comply with provisions in relation to fire safety or health safety. The admission of the public upon the understanding that they must continue at all times to be seated and that no expression of opinion or knowledge of any kind be allowed from them.’

Councillor Harkin stated that he called for the suspension of the relevant standing order to allow the representative from NIPSA to speak to Members.

The Mayor stated that after seeking guidance from the Lead Legal Services Officer, it was her decision on whether or not to permit a suspension of standing orders on the matter. Therefore, she would not accept the proposal for the Suspension of Standing Orders as she did not wish for a precedent to be set allowing members of the public making presentations at Council meetings. She stated that the

28 Page 28 representative from NIPSA could be given the opportunity to speak to the relevant Committee.

Councillor Harkin expressed his disappointment on the matter and extended an apology to the members of NIPSA seated in the public gallery.

Councillor McKinney Proposed an Amendment to the Motion.

The Mayor proposed a short recess to obtain legal advice on the Amendment.

After the recess Alderman McClintock agreed that representatives from NIPSA be invited to speak at the relevant Committee and suggested that the motion be deferred until after the presentation. She then requested legal advice on Council’s position regarding the proposed strike action.

In response, the Lead Legal Services Officer advised that there was nothing within Council’s rules or procedures to prevent Council from backing strike action.

Councillor McKinney Proposed an Amendment, Seconded by Councillor J Boyle That Council views workers‟ rights as intrinsic to a democratic and just society. The struggle for workers‟ rights unites rather than divides communities. In Derry and Strabane and elsewhere, poverty wages and disrespect for labour are widespread. Public and private sector workers, including civil servants, have had to rely on foodbanks to survive.

Derry City and Strabane Council stands in solidarity with civil servant members of NIPSA who have voted to take industrial action on July 26th.

Council agrees that the workers concerned should receive an above-inflation pay increase and pay restoration. Council opposes attacks on workers‟ terms and conditions. Council

29 Page 29 supports NIPSA's demand for contract negotiations to be reopened.

Council calls for solidarity with the July 26 strike and with whatever further action the workers involved feel it necessary to take to secure their contract demands.

Council agrees to write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance to convey Council's support of these demands.

We call for continued engagement to try to resolve the issues in a sustainable and fair way. We call on Government to act with sympathy for the situation of our employees. And we call on our political parties to reach effective agreement at Stormont immediately, so that the NI Assembly can legislate on this and other urgent matters without further delay.

After voting by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For the Amendment – 21; Against – 11; Abstentions – 0.

The Amendment was therefore carried.

Councillor Gallagher Proposed a further Amendment, Seconded by Councillor Carr.

Derry City and Strabane Council stands in solidarity with civil servant members of NIPSA who have voted to take industrial action on July 26th.

30 Page 30 Council agrees that the workers concerned should receive an above-inflation pay increase and pay restoration. Council opposes attacks on workers‟ terms and conditions. Council supports NIPSA's demand for contract negotiations to be reopened.

Council calls for solidarity with the July 26 strike and with whatever further action the workers involved feel it necessary to take to secure their contract demands.

That this Council addresses the anomaly with the wage structure within this Council since the merger of the two Councils whereby workers doing the same job are paid different rates of pay. That this Council will engage with unions forthwith.

Council agrees to write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance to convey Council's support of these demands.

After voting by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For the Amendment – 27; Against – 5; Abstentions – 0.

The Amendment was therefore carried.

Councillor Harkin Proposed a further Amendment, Seconded by Councillor McCann

Council views workers‟ rights as intrinsic to a democratic and just society. The struggle for workers‟ rights unites rather than divides communities. In Derry and Strabane and elsewhere, poverty wages and disrespect for labour are

31 Page 31 widespread. Public and private sector workers, including civil servants, have had to rely on foodbanks to survive.

Derry City and Strabane Council stands in solidarity with civil servant members of NIPSA who have voted to take industrial action on July 26th.

Council agrees that the workers concerned should receive an above-inflation pay increase and pay restoration. Council opposes attacks on workers‟ terms and conditions. Council supports NIPSA's demand for contract negotiations to be reopened. Council calls for solidarity with the July 26 strike and with whatever further action the workers involved feel it necessary to take to secure their contract demands.

Council agrees to write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance to convey Council's support of these demands.

Council notes this dispute can be resolved now by the Department of Finance. Therefore, this resolution is not contingent on the restoration of Stormont. On that basis we encourage workers in their decision to take action now.

After voting on the Amendment by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For the Amendment – 27; Against – 0; Abstentions – 6.

32 Page 32 The Amendment was therefore carried and subsequently became the Substantive Motion.

After voting on the Substantive Motion by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For – 27; Against – 5; Abstentions – 1.

The Substantive Motion was therefore carried and the Council

Resolved Council views workers‟ rights as intrinsic to a democratic and just society. The struggle for workers‟ rights unites rather than divides communities. In Derry and Strabane and elsewhere, poverty wages and disrespect for labour are widespread. Public and private sector workers, including civil servants, have had to rely on foodbanks to survive.

Derry City and Strabane Council stands in solidarity with civil servant members of NIPSA who have voted to take industrial action on July 26th.

33 Page 33 Council agrees to write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance to convey Council's support of these demands.

C215/19 Marriage Equality and Abortion

Councillor McCann Moved, Seconded by Councillor Harkin

That Council notes the recent vote in Westminster to extend Marriage Equality and the decriminalisation of abortion to the North.

Council supports the right to marry for same-sex couples and opposes all forms of homophobia and transphobia.

Council supports the decriminalisation of abortion.

Council commends the decades of campaigning by the LGBT+ community and their allies for equality in Derry and Strabane and elsewhere.

Council commends the decades of campaigning by Pro-Choice activists and their allies for equality in Derry and Strabane and elsewhere. Council agrees that these campaigns have been key to making our society more progressive, more tolerant and more equal.

34 Page 34

Alderman McCready stated that there were two separate, important issues within the Motion. He suggested that Councillor McCann withdraw the motion and have them presented as two separate items at a future meeting of Council to have them debated properly.

After a request for a recorded vote on the motion by Alderman Kerrigan the result was as follows:

For – Councillors M Boyle, Burke, Donnelly, Duffy, Farrell, Fleming, Gallagher, Harkin, Jackson, Kelly, Logue, McCann, McHugh, McKinney, McLaughlin, Mellon and Reilly (17)

Against – Aldermen Devenney, Kerrigan, McClintock, McCready and Warke; Councillors J Boyle, Carr, Dobbins, McCloskey and McKeever (10)

Abstentions – Councillors J Barr, R Barr, Cusack, Durkan and Tierney (5).

The Motion was therefore carried and the Council

Resolved That Council notes the recent vote in Westminster to extend Marriage Equality and the decriminalisation of abortion to the North.

Council supports the right to marry for same- sex couples and opposes all forms of homophobia and transphobia.

Council supports the decriminalisation of abortion.

Council commends the decades of campaigning by the LGBT+ community and their allies for equality in Derry and Strabane and elsewhere.

35 Page 35 Councillor Dobbins left the meeting at this point.

C216/19 Referendum on the Right of all Irish Citizens

Councillor Tierney Moved, Seconded by Councillor Farrell

That That this Council recognises the unique ability of people living in Northern Ireland to hold citizenship of Britain, Ireland or both, as a result of the Good Friday Agreement:

Welcomes the announcement from An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD and the Irish Government of their intent to hold a referendum on the right of all Irish citizens, including the diaspora, to take part in the election of Uachtarán na hÉireann;

and believes that this is an important opportunity to expand the democratic participation of people across Northern Ireland in the election of the President of Ireland.

After voting by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For – 22; Against – 5; Abstentions – 2.

The Motion was therefore carried and the Council

Resolved That this Council recognises the unique ability of people living in Northern Ireland to hold citizenship of Britain, Ireland or both, as a result of the Good Friday Agreement:

and believes that this is an important opportunity to expand the democratic participation of people across Northern Ireland in the election of the President of Ireland.

36 Page 36

C217/19 Holiday Pay for Overtime Hours

Councillor Harkin Moved, Seconded by Councillor McCann

That A recent court decision ruled workers in both the public and private sector can claim holiday pay for overtime hours. Council welcomes this decision.

Council supports public and private sector workers‟ holiday back pay claims. Council views this as money earned that must be paid.

Council calls for no time caps to be placed on holiday back pay claims. Council encourages council workers to claim holiday back pay they are owed and extends the same support to all workers in Derry and Strabane who are owed holiday back pay. Council stands in solidarity with workers forced to take action in pursuit of holiday back pay.

Councillor McLaughlin Proposed an Amendment, Seconded by Councillor J Boyle

That A recent court decision ruled workers in both the public and private sector can claim holiday pay for overtime hours. Council welcomes this decision. Council supports public and private sector workers‟ holiday back pay claims. Council views this as money earned that must be paid.

Council calls for no time caps to be placed on holiday back pay claims.

Council encourages council workers to claim holiday back pay they are owed and extends the same support to all workers in Derry and Strabane who are owed holiday back pay. Council stands in solidarity with workers forced to take action in pursuit of holiday back pay. That this Council looks forward to learning the outcome of the appeal in the Supreme Court. In the interim this Council calls on officers to prepare a

37 Page 37 report to outline the prospective legal exposure of this Council as agreed at the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting on 2 July. This Council agrees to uphold full employees pay entitlements under employment law.

After voting on the Amendment by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For – 24; Against – 6; Abstentions – 1.

The Amendment was therefore carried and subsequently became the Substantive Motion.

After voting on the Substantive Motion by a show of hands the result was as follows:

For – 28; Against – 0; Abstentions – 3.

The Substantive Motion was therefore carried and the Council

Resolved A recent court decision ruled workers in both the public and private sector can claim holiday pay for overtime hours. Council welcomes this decision. Council supports public and private sector workers‟ holiday back pay claims. Council views this as money earned that must be paid.

Council calls for no time caps to be placed on holiday back pay claims.

38 Page 38 legal exposure of this Council as agreed at the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting on 2 July. This Council agrees to uphold full employees pay entitlements under employment law.

Open for Information

C218/19 Sealing List July 2019 Councillor Tierney Moved, Councillor J Boyle Seconded and the Council

Resolved that the seal of the Council be affixed to the following documents Sealing List July 2019

Documents Sealed 17th June 2019

Deed of Variation in duplicate:- Northern Ireland Housing Executive ~and~ Derry City and Strabane District Council relating to Foyle Valley Railway Museum relating to Foyle Valley Railway Museum.

Documents Sealed 21st June 2019

Contract in duplicate:- Derry city and Strabane District Council and TD McKane and Son relating to Flood Damaged MUGA, Grass Pitch and Play Area, Donemana.

Documents Sealed 18th July 2019

Grant of Right of Burial in Ballyoan Cemetery

Mr Geoffrey McMullan, 46 Church Road, Altnagelvin, BT47 3QQ.

Grants of Right of Burial in City Cemetery

Mr Trevor Tracey, 79 Woodbrook West, Derry, BT48 8PZ. Mr John Kelly, 57 Ardgrange, Derry, BT48 0SF. Mrs Lily Brown, 38 Garden City, Derry, BT48 7SP.

39 Page 39 Ms Bronagh Elliott, 7 Woodland Close, Derry, BT47 2FG. Mrs Marzena Szewc, 278 Cornshell Fields, Derry, BT48 7UN. Mr Brendan Doherty, 29 Elmwood Terrace, Derry, BT48 9JQ. Mrs Fiona Downey, 10 Oakfield Avenue, Derry, BT48 9BD. Mr Gerald McKeever, 35 The Meadows, Derry, BT48 8RJ. Mr Michael Doherty, 4 Clagan Cottages, Claudy, Co. Derry. Ms Sharon O’Kane, 478 Carnhill, Derry, BT48 8BX. Mrs Philomena McAnee, 43 Lisnarea Avenue, Kingsfort Park, Derry. Mrs Susan Monaghan, 5 Marlborough Avenue, Derry, BT48 9BQ.

C219/19 Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 – Confidential Business

Councillor McKeever Moved, Councillor J Boyle Seconded and the Council

Resolved that in accordance with Section 42, Sub Sections (2) or (4) of the Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014, the press and members of the public be asked to withdraw whilst the Council discuss the following matters: (a) Adoption of the Confidential Minutes of the Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on 27 June 2019;

(b) Adoption of the Confidential Minutes of the following Committees

(i) Monthly Planning Committee held on Wednesday 3 July 2019. (ii) Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 9 July 2019.

40 Page 40 (iii) Monthly Environment and regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 10 July 2019. (iv) Monthly Health and community Committee held on Thursday 11 July 2019.

The Meeting then went into Confidential Business.

41 Page 41 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 8a

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Open Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Planning Committee held in the Guildhall, Derry on Thursday 22 August 2019 at 2.00pm.

______

Present: - Councillor C Jackson (Chairperson), Alderman McClintock; Councillors J Barr, Gallagher and McGuire.

In Attendance: - Head of Planning (Ms M Fox), Lead Legal Services Officer (Mr P Kingston), Head of Planning Performance and Improvement (Mr E Molloy), Business Services Officer (Mrs L McKean) and Committee Services Assistants (Ms N Meehan and Mr A Mullan).

______

SP6/19 Notice and Summons for Meeting

The Head of Planning read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.

SP7/19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Head of Planning completed the roll call. Apologies were received from Alderman Bresland, Councillor Kelly and Councillor Logue.

The Chair advised that the meeting was inquorate and suggested adjourning for thirty minutes to see if a quorum could be attained.

After a short adjournment the Chair announced that as it was unlikely that a quorum would be found, it would be appropriate to end the meeting at that point.

The Meeting terminated at 2.21pm.

Page 43 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 8b

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Minutes of Meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee (open) held in the Guildhall, Derry on Tuesday 3 September2019 at 4 pm.

______

Present:- Members of Committee - Councillor McKeever (in the Chair); Aldermen Bresland and McClintock; Councillors Boyle, Cooper, Fleming, Harkin, McGuire, McLaughlin, Mellon and Reilly.

Non-Members of Committee – Aldermen Guy and Kerrigan, Councillors Donnelly, Duffy, Farrell, Gallagher and McCann.

In Attendance:- Chief Executive (Mr J Kelpie), Director of Environment and Regeneration (Mrs K Philips), Lead Finance Officer (Mr A Dallas), Lead Assurance Officer (Mrs D McDonnell), Lead Legal Services Officer (Mr P Kingston), Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer (Ms E Cavanagh), Strategic Business Manager (Mrs R Craig), Senior Economist (Mr M Gallagher) and Committee Services Assistant (Ms N Meehan).

______

GSP90/19 Notice and Summons of Meeting

The Chief Executive read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.

GSP91/19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Chief Executive completed the roll call and apologies were recorded from Alderman McCready and Councillor McCloskey.

GSP92/19 Declarations of Members’ Interests

Councillors Boyle and Fleming declared an interest in agenda item 21 – City of Derry Airport London PSO Contract Award.

Open for Decision

Chairperson’s Business

GSP93/19 Welcome

1 Page 45 The Chairperson welcomed Members and Officers to the Meeting following the summer recess.

GSP94/19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 2 July 2019

Open Minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on 2 July 2019 (GSP76/19-GSP89/19) were signed by the Chairperson as correct.

GSP95/19 City Deal/Strategic Projects Update Report

The Chief Executive presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to (i) Recap on the principal considerations and recommendations of the detailed City Deal/Strategic Growth Projects update report presented to Committee in July; and (ii) Outline progress since and key issues in relation to funding, projects prioritisation, governance and process.

The Chief Executive then invited senior representatives from the Ulster University to give a presentation on the innovation projects and the proposed Medical School at the Magee Campus. A copy of the Presentation is attached at Appendix A.

The Committee then received Mr M O’Neill, Provost, Professors P Devine, T Bjourson, TM McGinnity and and Dr J Quinn who gave a joint presentation on Ulster University City Deal Innovation Projects as follows:

City Deal Overview:

CIDRA: Centre for Industrial Digitalisation, Robotics and Automation

CARL: Cognitive Analytics Research Lab

THRIVE:

NIGEMS: Northern Ireland Graduate Entry Medical School

NIGEMS

2 Page 46 City Deal: Innovation and Digital

Digital Skills

CIDRA - Centre for Industrial Digitalisation, Robotics and Automation

CIDRA Addresses Major Impending Challenges for Industry and Commerce and helps prepare for the next industrial revolution and impending Technological Change for Industry and Commerce. CIDRA encapsulates:

- Artificial Intelligence - Robotics - Automation - Industrial Internet of Things - Industrial Digital Technologies

Current Status

Across the North West region within each Council area 11% to 20% of all jobs are in manufacturing industry. Around 25,000 manufacturing jobs in the North West region and industry need digital, robotic and automation support to remain competitive.

What will CIDRA Do?

- A source of advanced expertise in the five core technologies in an industrial and commercial context for the benefit of NI industry. - A template model factory demonstrating agile manufacturing, integrating artificial intelligence, lloT, robotics, automation and digital communications into industrial manufacturing process. - A facility to allow industry to see, evaluate and gain hands-on experience in terms of what digital technologies can do for their company. - A facility for evaluation of designs, rapid implementation and testing of prototypes. - A facility for continuous professional development and skills upgrading for the existing workforce. - A testbed for research and development in industrial digitalisation, robotics and automation for manufacturing and commerce. - A Centre that builds upon the extensive expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics in the Centre of

3 Page 47 Excellence in Intelligent Systems at UU Magee campus (the Intelligent System Research Centre) - Addressed innovation challenges with the option for industry to be part of the delivery, thus accelerating new skills gained through accredited professional development. - A regional hub from where University-Industry partnerships can be grown. - A location for ongoing technological developments in partnership with industry and commerce – not just manufacturing industry.

CARL: Cognitive Analytics Research Lab

Introduction to CARL

Building upon Ulster’s strength of 15 year history in Artificial Intelligence at ISRC Magee CARL is an industry focussed research centre, applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics across multiple domains:

- Health - Financial Technology - Advance Manufacturing/Energy - Media - Civic Society and Public Policy

Strategically aligned with government policy

Why the hype over Data Analytics and AI?

50X Growth from 2010 to 2020

Alignment with Industry Needs

- Huge level of support and pull from industry in workshops/ meetings/visits. - Sector include: Healthcare; Fintech; Media; Advanced Manufacturing; Energy; Civic/Public (DfE DfC) - Founding partners include: Seagate; Allstate; Kainos; Analytics Engines; Fujitsu; United Healthcare/Optum; Pramerica.

Vision for CARL

4 Page 48 CARL will emulate the success Northern Ireland has seen in Cyber and Fintech to establish Northern Ireland as a global leader in the field of Data Analytics and AI.

THRIVE – Stratified Medicine Ulster University

Health Research Institute

Personalised Medicine – A Global Priority!

For Disease Prevention – Better Diagnosis – Better Treatment

Right Treatment – Right Person – Right Time

People Living Longer – Need to Live Well for Longer

Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine -Incorporating Centre for Personalised Medicine

A Driver for Precision Medicine……

What will THRIVE (HRI) do?

1. Spade-ready research centres of excellence and commercial projects

Innovation Research Centres for Sustainability

Business and Community Innovation for Sustainability

2. Spade-ready Taught Courses Integrate with NIGEMS Teaching and Skills Development for Sustainability……

Following the presentation Mr O’Neill referred to the huge impact that these projects would have on the City and District and stated that it would be worthwhile to visualise how this would materialise. He said these projects would prove transformational for the City and undertook to arrange a tour of the facilities available at the Magee Campus for interested Members.

Members then raised the following points:

5 Page 49 - Commended the Chief Executive on his comprehensive report and the presentation from UU on the innovation projects. - Members welcomed the progress and information regarding the four key projects. - Welcomed the fact that the City Deal money was almost in situ in terms of progressing the strategic growth projects. - Acknowledged the tremendous work carried out in recent months in terms of progressing the projects. - Referred to the significance of Ulster University in terms of realising the full potential of the City Deal. - Expressed concern at the response received from Mr Sterling, Head of the NI Civil Service and the sentiments expressed therein in regards to the delivery of a graduate medical school at the Magee Campus. - Acknowledged the importance of the various innovation projects in terms of job creation and providing opportunities. - Referred to the importance of Humanities courses as well as STEM subjects and the need for a varied university prospectus in order to increase student numbers at UU. - Welcomed the fact that given the ensuing funding through the City Deal and related match funding these projects could be fully realised. - Undertook to work to ensure that all financial commitments were secured. - Referred to a sense of increased expectation in regards to UU. - In regards to the clarity of the sentiments expressed by Mr Sterling referred to the need for a potential plan B to be explored. - Questioned the apparent level of commitment and progress from Ulster University in regards to the City and referred to the importance of aligning health science courses with this City and region. - Suggested that UU’s School of Health Sciences including such courses as physiotherapy and radiotherapy, should be relocated from Jordanstown to the Magee Campus, referring to the outstanding success of the Nursing School which was over- subscribed each year. - Expressed concern at the University’s reputation to date in terms of delivering for the City with expansion promises having been overlooked and the Magee Campus stripped of valuable courses. - Expressed concern that UU had failed on its past promises and had engaged in systematic dis-investment whilst virtually destroying the integrity of the Magee Campus.

6 Page 50 - Contemplated the potential impact that a thriving University would have on the City and region and sought a binding commitment from UU in terms of delivering for the City. - Enquired as to Council’s position should UU default of its current undertaking? - Acknowledged recent progress in regards to the expansion of the Magee Campus stating that any further delay in the delivery of a Graduate Medical School was totally unacceptable. - Referred to Council’s cross-party support for the expansion of the University. - Referred to growing doubt regarding the expansion of the Magee Campus and referred to the need to consider alternative options to expanding university provision in the City. - Welcomed that three of the projects were aligned to industrial needs but expressed concern that the Department would not sign- off on the Graduate Medical School in the absence of an Executive.

The Provost of Ulster University’s Magee Campus, Professor O’Neill explained that the University had been closely engaged with Council Members and Officers stating that alongside the Medical School there were three other significant projects based on international research and developed over a sustained period at Magee which it was hoped would be advanced as part of the City Deal Future Fund transformation. He continued that a considerable amount of work and thought had gone in to progressing these projects, with millions of pounds having already been invested by the University and millions more in the pipeline.

Professor O’Neill stated that these investments as part of the City Deal were absolutely transformational, not just for the Campus and the City but they were internally globally significant projects. In regards to the relocation of courses from Jordanstown to the Magee Campus, Professor O’Neill pointed out that no final decision had as yet been agreed. He stated that the University was extremely proud of the Nursing School at Magee and that its success had justified expansion to date, which he stated would include a range of courses and new facilities such as the Teaching Block and a Competency Centre. He pointed out that there had been tremendous growth in the stratified medicine and sport, physical activity and health courses at the Magee Campus, which, alongside the Nursing School, was placing the Campus in an incredibly strong position.

7 Page 51 In response to comments regarding UU’s apparent lack of commitment regarding the expansion of the Magee Campus and the delivery of a Graduate Medical School, Professor O’Neill stated that in many cases he shared Members’ sense of frustration, adding that the wider issue of the failure to raise the cap on student numbers in Northern Ireland was a major stumbling block to expanding university provision.

Professor O’Neill continued that the funding model for higher education was not fit for purpose and needed to be re-examined. He agreed with the need for increased student places in the City.

He again acknowledged the sense of frustration and stated that Members’ concerns were echoed by the University who shared their determination and strived for a more significant university presence in the City. In conclusion he gave assurances that UU’s intentions were genuinely pointing to the consolidation of IT courses at the Magee Campus and stating that each City Deal partner had to contribute 10% to its project meaning UU would be expected to provide a minimum of £10m.

Subsequently the Committee

Recommended that on the basis of this and preceding reports, Members note and endorse progress to date, acknowledge the many key issues highlighted and confirm their support to resolve.

The Members of the UU were thanked for their presentations and attendance and withdrew from the Meeting.

GSP96/19 Deputation – To Receive Representatives from Northern Ireland Housing Executive to Present the Housing Executive’s Investment Plan

The Committee received Mr Bailey, Chief Executive and Mr Doherty, Area Manager, NIHE to the Meeting to present the Housing Investment Plan (HIP) which addressed the following:

Purpose of the HIP

New HIPs replace District Housing Plans. They have two main purposes.

8 Page 52

1. The Housing Executive is statutorily required under the 1981 Housing Order to report to Councils on its past year’s performance and next year’s proposals. 2. The Housing Executive is a Community Planning Partner and the HIP provides an evidence base that will inform Community Planning.

Overview of the HIP

1. After consultation with a range of stakeholders the Housing Investment Plan provides an overview of the housing market in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area. 2. The HIP examines cross tenure housing issues and detailed social housing investment at a local level. 3. It is a 4-year plan with annual update in intervening years. This is the first year of the plan with yearly annual updates starting 2020. 4. The plan reflects Community Planning priorities.

Approach

Four high level outcomes related to housing and associated services have shaped the HIP:

1. Helping people find housing support and solutions; 2. Delivering better homes; 3. Fostering vibrant sustainable communities; and 4. Delivering quality public services.

Housing Executive Investment

Activity Areas - Actual Spend £M Projected Spend £M 2019/20

Total 124.72 33.12

Key Housing Issues for Derry City and Strabane

- An ageing population - Total housing stock is 8,799 units - Increase in housing stress applicants - 2,079 households presented as homeless – a 4% increase from 2018/19 – 1,315 accepted as homeless - 917 social housing allocations in 2018/19 - 225 new social homes complete

9 Page 53 - 1,242 social homes on-site

Future Housing Issues:

- 2,744 new social housing units are needed over next five years - 2019/2022 Social Housing Development Programme – 1.494 (gross) new social housing units programmed - Mixed Tenure Developments and affordable housing - Welfare Reform – 17,521 residents in receipt of Housing Benefit at March 2019

Next Steps

Progress against the HIP outcomes will be regularly monitored and will be reported on annually.

The Housing Executive Investment Plan, the Community Plan and the new Local Development Plan should all align and fit together. Housing Executive colleagues will continue to work with Council as a partner to provide evidence and agree outcomes.

Members from all Parties thanked the representatives from the Housing Executive for their presentation and commended the Area Manager and his staff on the commitment and enthusiasm with which they carried out their duties and on their constant hard work and efforts in trying to satisfy their customers.

Members then raised the following issues:

- Referred to the fact that from the figures presented it appeared that the Housing Executive was facing a housing crisis with the latest levels of homelessness since the formation of the Housing Executive and with demand outstripping supply. - Expressed concern at the significant increase in homelessness numbers and welcomed the Homelessness Consultation which was considered timely. - Expressed concern that the criteria for identifying an individual as “chronic homeless” was somewhat restricting. - In regards to the Homeless Consultation, suggested that the information collected could be used to identify the needs of vulnerable individuals to ensure the provision of required services, particularly in terms of chronic homelessness together with the provision of wrap around services.

10 Page 54 - Pointed out that Foyle had one of the highest waiting lists with prospective tenants waiting much longer than the average 12 months to be allocated accommodation. This was most apparent in Skeoge and Creggan were over 200 points were required to secure suitable accommodation whilst in other areas of the City only 120 points were required. - Referred to the ageing population and the increased number of disabled tenants and the subsequent need for additional bungalow accommodation. - Queried suggestions that the Housing Executive was preparing to re-establish its new-build programme. - Referred to the need to identify and secure additional land for housing purposes. - Referred to the need to break the cycle in regards to homelessness. - Expressed concern at the challenges being faced by those most vulnerable members of society with the proposed introduction of a standardized regional payment in regards to the Supporting People Programme and the need for this initiative to be vehemently opposed. - Expressed concern that the social housing points system was fundamentally flawed. Whilst acknowledging that there were genuine cases of intimidation, the current system did not assist in dealing with anti-social behaviour problems. - Expressed concern that whilst quality accommodation was being provided these were being allocated to tenants with a history of anti-social behaviour which was causing havoc and damaging new communities. - Expressed concern that Housing Associations were not providing the necessary supports in new developments to address the problem of difficult tenants which was impacting on the lives and well-being of all. - Referred to the fact that it was the corporate policy of Council to oppose the privatisation of the Housing Executive and call for it to be allowed to borrow money to build new homes. - Expressed concern at apparent variations in regards to Disabled Facilities grant-aid. - Queried the current level of Housing Executive stock in the Waterside area. - Expressed concern at the position adopted by Strategic Investment Board in regards to the eradication of social housing.

11 Page 55 The Housing Executive representatives thanked Members for their comments regarding the service provided by local staff. They responded to the issues raised as follows:

- It had become apparent that homelessness required a wide range of services and referred to the growing number of young adults presenting to the Housing Executive with more complex needs including various addiction and mental health problems. - It was intended to determine those services which were currently available to address this growing problem and identify areas where there was an apparent lack of necessary services. - Referred to the impending Welfare Reforms and the impact thereof on the Housing Executive. - Confirmed that over £80 million had been invested in building new social housing in Derry and Strabane during the past twelve months. - Pointed out that from those currently on waiting lists, approximately three quarters were in housing distress which was a 4 per cent decrease from the previous year. - Explained that of the 2,079 applicants who presented as homeless over the course of 2018/19, 1,315 were accepted as being so. - Referred to Housing Executive projections which suggested that the total need for the next five years would be 2,744 new homes in the City. - Acknowledged the need to ensure that there was adequate community infrastructure to cater for the development in the Skeoge area. - Confirmed that during the previous twelve months 60 cases had been presented to the Housing Executive of people claiming to be “under threat”. - Assured that the Housing Executive was endeavouring to update the current policy in this regard and had discussed with PSNI what they deemed to be a credible threat. - Acknowledged the difficulties regarding the award of points in cases of intimidation. - Pointed out that the threshold for removing tenants was considerably high and would require Court proceedings. The threshold of evidence was also considerably high and was required over a specific period of time. However, in the past, on occasion the right to evict tenants had been secured. - Confirmed that the Housing Executive had appointed additional staff to prepare for the expected impact of Welfare Reforms in regards to tenants struggling to pay rent.

12 Page 56 - Explained that locally the Housing Executive had 8,799 homes, with a large proportion being three bedroom properties. It was estimated that approximately one third of local Housing Executive tenants would be affected by the bedroom tax. - Mitigations secured for Northern Ireland in 2015 had largely prevented the tax being introduced here. However, these were due to expire in March 2020 and without the re-emergence of the Stormont Executive it appeared likely that the bedroom tax would be introduced. - Referred to the general lack of awareness regarding bedroom tax and the Housing Executive’s efforts to inform tenants and make preparation for the introduction of the tax if mitigations were not extended. - Explained that the introduction of bedroom tax could result in many tenants not be able to pay their rent and subsequently impact on the homelessness situation. The Housing Executive would endeavour to do all in its power to manage this sensibly and sensitively. - Acknowledged the need for the Disabled Facilities grant-aid to the updated. - Acknowledged comments in regards to the approach adopted by SIB.

In response to a query from Councillor Mellon in regards to the Housing Executive’s commitment to Local Community Planning, the Chief Executive assured that the Housing Executive had invested significantly in this Council area in regards to Community Planning and community cohesion and attracting EU/government funding which was then wisely invested. The Housing Executive were constantly trying to identify any available funding sources to address housing need. It also had a very active grants programme to assist individuals to develop and promote skills. They had also produced a business case which was passed by the Chief Executive’s Financial Committee and had approved a major investment programme and had arranged a Senior Management Away Day.

The representatives from the Housing Executive were thanked for their attendance and their presentation and they withdrew from the Meeting.

GSP97/19 BREXIT – Day One Readiness

13 Page 57 The Lead Assurance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was for Members to note and continue to endorse the work that is ongoing in relation to preparing the Council for Day One Readiness in the event of a No Deal Brexit specifically in relation to the delivery of Council services and functions.

The Committee

Recommended that Members note and endorse the work that is ongoing to preparing the Council for Day One Readiness in the event of a No Deal Brexit specifically in relation to the delivery of Councils services and functions; and that further updates and reports will be presented to the Committee for consideration and discussion in each of the coming months.

GSP98/19 Economic Outlook

The Senior Economist presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated to Members. He advised that the purpose of the report was to provide an update to the Committee on the economic outlook for Northern Ireland and the Derry City and Strabane District Council area. He said it was recommended that Members receive a presentation on this economic forecast and endorse the preparations underway to measure progress on economic wellbeing as an element of the Strategic Growth Partnership’s Statement of Progress due in November 2019.

The Senior Economist then gave a power-point presentation on Economic Performance and Outlooks in an Age of Uncertainty which highlighted the following:

The broader economic context

- Good news overshadowed by global uncertainties

- Strong jobs growth locally and falling unemployment

- Full-time/Part-time employment growth

14 Page 58 - Manufacturing and the productivity challenge

- Demographics present another challenge

- Real GVA Outlook – NI and UK

- UUEPC expects a tougher labour market

Recent Performance

- Population has grown in past two decades

- Strong employment growth in the recovery

- Unemployment falling to nearly half its peak in 2013

- While the labour market recovery has been strong, output has been slower to come back

Baseline Economic Outlook

- Total resident population projections

- Employment growth on an upward trend

- Sectoral Employment Change

- Resident employment rate (%)

- Resident ILO Unemployment Rate (%)

- A slight decrease in economic inactivity

Councillor McLaughlin thanked the Senior Economist for his presentation which she welcomed cautiously. She stated that whilst inroads had been made there was still a considerable degree of

15 Page 59 uncertainty regarding the future economic outlook and how this would impact on the City and region. She referred to the fact that the UK economy had been sluggish in recent years amid uncertainty regarding sterling which had experienced major fluctuations particularly given the ongoing situation regarding Brexit. She stated that whilst a disorderly Brexit had not been factored in, it should not affect the overall focus.

Councillor Cooper acknowledged the previous speaker’s comments regarding uncertainties surrounding Brexit. He stated that the manufacturing and agricultural industries would be affected most in the event of a No Deal Brexit, an issue over which Council had no control. He referred to the need for greater expansion of Ulster University. He acknowledged that progress had been made, however, not at the level necessary both in terms of the courses available and increasing student numbers. He referred to the negative economic impact of the “brain drain” on the City and region. He stated that whilst the City Deal funding was extremely welcome this was only a starting point and would not address the many economic problems and future uncertainties which would could possibly arise. He stated that regardless of a functioning Executive the same issues in regards to border control would have to be addressed. He stated that whilst the presentation had many positive aspects there remained the negatives which must continue to be focused upon.

Councillor Harkin referred to economic inactivity levels across the City and region which at 34% was higher than in the rest of the North. He stated that this was a matter of great concern. He queried the level of interest among the unemployed to secure employment; the availability of paid employment and whether terms and conditions were being deemed as unacceptable. He referred to a growing disparity between lower and higher paid jobs which would have an impact on both individuals and the fabric of the City. He queried the median wage and disagreed with suggestions that it would be possible to revitalise the area. He continued that the City Deal would not provide the answer nor would it provide the much needed solution to revitalising the local economy. Whilst acknowledging the tourism boom he expressed concern that the jobs being created were not well paid. He stated that when producing such reports it would be necessary to obtain a response from Trade Unions. He referred to a Motion passed by Council regarding Zero Hours Contracts and suggested that this be progressed without delay.

16 Page 60 The Chief Executive acknowledged the previous speaker’s comments regarding the median wage. He stated that it was always difficult in a Council area such as Derry/Strabane to suggest that there was positive job growth in the midst of such deprivation. However, this was positive news amid such grim reality. He stated that greater progress was being achieved in some areas compared to others and this report could not be considered in isolation of other considerations. He stated that the graph on employment growth showed an upward trend and he referred to the significance in terms of delivery on the Strategic Growth Plan. He stated that with continuing the current focus, the scale of trajectory would be positive and the level of investment showing was considerable. However, he acknowledged that the City Deal did not provide the answers to all the problems but stated that there were many other projects within the Strategic Growth Plan which had to be realised.

The Senior Economist explained that in terms of the median salary it tended to be the case that higher level jobs were taken by commuters and therefore the overall median salary of local residents was 15% lower. He referred to another peculiar factor within the City that full- time female wages tended to be higher. He stated that employers coming to the City were pitching their salaries at a significant rate, however, these related to higher skilled jobs. He referred to a mismatch between available positions and the necessary skills base. He stated that inactivity in itself was not always a negative thing as the figures presented included student numbers and a growing ageing population. It was necessary to analyse the figures and the various pertaining factors. He stated that the decline in numbers classed as inactive was due to the fact that some people were being moved onto the new benefit system and now thus classified as active. He referred to a mismatch which existed in regards to the skills base and available employment opportunities, an area which required intervention.

The Senior Economist acknowledged that progress had been made on a number of key economic issues since the establishment of the new Council but highlighted the importance of the delivery of the objectives set out in the Strategic Growth Plan and the City Deal if the City and District was to continue on this positive trend. Acknowledging the challenges facing the City and Region, he stated that a number of challenges had to be faced in regards to population growth, skills shortages and salary levels, however, much of these would be addressed within the City Deal core projects proposals.

17 Page 61 The Senior Economist also outlined to Members the need for the successful delivery of the key strategic projects in education and infrastructure, including the Magee Medical School which would act as a vital catalyst for growth. He continued that by working together with key partners, Council’s pro-active role in facing the challenges head-on and working positively to foster growth and prosperity in the North West was succeeding.

The Chief Executive explained that Council, through the Senior Economist, the Statistician and the wider team together with independent resources and other bodies had been collecting this data and were not depending on other agencies. He said it was hoped to provide Members with a taste of the type of information being collected which would be used to support business cases and funding applications and to promote requests to government departments to support business cases.

Alderman McClintock thanked the Senior Economist for his presentation. She welcomed the collection of data in-house.

Councillor McLaughlin queried what methodology, if any, had been agreed in regards to the collection of data from the Republic of Ireland in order that this could be embedded into the findings.

The Chief Executive acknowledged the significance of the Republic of Ireland in terms of an economic and social perspective and stated that Council fully subscribed to this as a cross-border region. It was also realised that any scenario where statistics presented were on a UK only basis were distorted and not beneficial and were somewhat skewed as the analysis was undertaken across two jurisdictions. He stated that the figures presented to Committee were considered to be higher in terms of the wider hinterland if the City were a single jurisdiction. He concluded that in addition Council was undertaking a joint piece of work with Donegal County Council.

The Senior Economist pointed out that the issue in regards to the Republic of Ireland had been recognised some years previously and a number of pieces of work had been undertaken specifically in regards to population and census figures in the Republic of Ireland which had proved extremely useful. However, the complexity was that the last census in the Republic was in 2016 and in the North in 2011. He stated that work was continuing with Maynooth College in this regard and an update thereon was currently awaited. He acknowledged the need for

18 Page 62 such works, particularly in regards to tourism, and as a member of the Demographic Statistics Advisory Group had voiced this opinion particularly in regards to individuals who worked in this Council area and lived in a cross-border area.

The Committee

Recommended that Members endorse the preparations towards the Statement of Progress for the Strategic Growth Plan due in November 2019.

GSP99/19 Establishment of an A5/N2 Cross-Border Committee

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ views in relation to a request from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to establish an A5/N2 Cross Border Committee.

The Chief Executive explained that if Members wished to advance this request it was recommended that the D’hondt system would be applied in regards to the nominations.

Councillor Boyle stated that in regards to the rolling application of the D’hondt in this instance he did not recall this process having been agreed previously.

The Chief Executive undertook to investigate this matter and report to the September Council Meeting.

GSP100/19 Quarter 1 Financial Out-Turn Update 2019/2020

The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was for Members to consider and approve Council’s Quarter 1 financial outturn and position at 30 June 2019.

The Committee

Recommended that Members approve the 3 month financial position and note the surplus of

19 Page 63 £279k generated for the first 3 months of the 2019/2020 financial year.

GSP101/19 Prudential and Treasury Management Indicators Actual Out-Turn 2018/2019

The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was for Members to approve Council’s Prudential and Treasury Management Indicators Actual Out-turn for 2018/2019.

The Committee

Recommended that Members approve Council’s Prudential and Treasury Management Indicators Actual Out-turn for 2018/2019.

GSP102/19 Annual Performance Report

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to invite Members’ consideration and approval of the draft Annual Performance Report 2018/2019.

The Committee

Recommended that Members approve for publication, the draft Annual Performance Report 2018/2019.

GSP103/19 Report on Meeting Times

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with information to inform consideration of the revised meeting start times for Council and Committee Meetings.

Members thanked the Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer for the in-depth research carried out.

20 Page 64 Councillor Farrell stated that he had proposed the original Motion. He suggested that in the future meeting times in respect of monthly Council and Planning Committee Meetings remain the same, however, monthly Committee Meetings begin at 6 pm.

Councillor Boyle agreed that it was worth considering a 6 pm starting time for Committee Meetings with the suggestion that after a six month period the situation be reviewed.

Councillor Boyle expressed concern at the extensive agenda in respect of this Meeting and suggested that a Special Meeting could have been arranged to receive one of the presentations.

Alderman McClintock confirmed that the DUP were satisfied with the current position in regards to the start time of meetings. She expressed her opposition to the suggested 6 pm starting time for Committee Meetings which, she felt, would prove most inconvenient for Members and staff from rural areas.

Subsequently the Committee

Recommended that the above matter be referred to the September Council Meeting for further consideration.

GSP104/19 Lighting of Council Facilities

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek elected Members views and agreement on a set of principles to inform a policy on the lighting of Council facilities.

Alderman McClintock suggested that all requests regarding the lighting of Council facilities be made in writing.

Councillor Boyle referred to the report and the fact that, subject to Mayor’s approval, costs could be met from the corporate budget. He disagreed with the suggestion of a “pop-up” Motion and agreed that all requests in respect of lighting of Council facilities be made in writing.

21 Page 65 Councillor Mellon referred to the role of elected Members in regards to representing their electorate. She suggested that given the minor cost involved it would be trivial to disregard requests for the lighting of Council facilities put forward by Members.

In response to a query from Councillor Harkin regarding a Motion passed by Council regarding Foyle Pride Week, and the display of rainbow flags at Strabane Council Offices, the Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer pointed out that the context of the Motion stated that “Council will light up Council buildings and display rainbow flags on Council buildings, where this is possible”. However, in this instance it had not been possible to carry out a consultation/screening exercise with staff over the summer period.

Alderman McClintock referred to the need for a clear process in respect of the lighting of Council buildings.

Councillor Boyle reminded Members that regardless of political perspective the Mayor was incumbent to act in accordance with Council’s viewpoint.

Councillor Duffy stated that this issue related to raising awareness of specific causes and she was totally opposed to any suggestion that Charities should be charged for the lighting of Council facilities. She stated that Council was a corporate body and, if approached by a particular cause, should be willing to raise awareness at no cost.

The Chief Executive explained that in regards to practical issues the only building which could be lit effectively was the Council Offices building on Strand Road. Any request regarding the lighting of this building could be provided free of charge.

Subsequently it was Proposed

That that bullet point three be removed from the report and any future requests to light up Council facilities be submitted in writing to the Mayor.

The Proposal on being put to the vote was declared carried their voting For – 4; Against – 3; Abstentions – 0.

The Committee

22 Page 66 Recommended that bullet point three be removed from the Report and any future requests for the light of Council facilities be submitted in writing to the Mayor and that a draft lighting policy is developed and subjected to equality screening.

GSP105/19 British and Irish Sign Language Charter

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to present Members with information on the British/Irish Sign Language Charter and options for the relaying of Council Meetings in British/Irish Sign Language (BSL/ISL).

The Committee

Recommended that in line with the Charter, Council should engage directly the D/deaf community and representative organisations to:

Explore options which best meet their needs in terms of accessing up-to-date information on Council business, and to inform the selection of the Charter Pledges and advance the signing of the Charter.

GSP106/19 Member Learning Development

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to approve the Member Learning and Development Programme 2019-2023, the updated Terms of Reference for the Member Development Group and the Elected Member Development Group Action Plan 2019-2020.

The Committee

Recommended (i) to approve the Member Learning and Development Programme 2019-2023;

23 Page 67

(ii) to approve the updated Terms of Reference for the Member Development Group;

(iii) to approve the Elected Member Development Group Action Plan 2019- 2020; and

(iv) to endorse recommendations from the Member Development Group not to offer an accredited Mentoring course to members of the Group; and not to participate at this time in the University Certificate for Councillors or the Adviser NI course.

GSP107/19 Local Democracy Week 2019

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of this report was to inform Members of Local Democracy Week 2019, to encourage the participation of all Members and to seek Members’ approval on budget allocation and the draft programme.

Councillor Boyle urged greater participation from Elected Members in this event.

The Committee

Recommended that all Elected Members (where practical) get involved in Local Democracy Week 2019 and that Members adopt the proposed programme and budget allocation of £2,500 from the Members Training and Development budget.

GSP108/19 Carrickreagh Gardens, Creggan Derry – Rectification of Boundaries

24 Page 68 The Chief Executive presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to obtain authority for the transfer of title to certain lands at Carrickreagh Gardens, Creggan, Derry to NIHE.

The Committee

Recommended that approval be granted for Council to execute a transfer of the lands known as No5 Pt2 of Folio 27454 Co Derry to NIHE for a nominal or zero consideration.

GSP109/19 City of Derry Airport London PSO Contract Award

The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to advise Members of the outcome of the recent tender process for the London PSO contract from City of Derry Airport which was awarded by the Chief Executive under delegated authority during Council recess.

The Chief Executive highlighted the enormity and complexity of the PSO process/EU procurement regime and commended the Officer team involved noting that the skills/competencies demonstrated were not readily available.

He advised that the medium/longer term funding issues were challenging and would require consideration and engagement with the NI, UK and RoI governments. The Chief Executive further advised that the City of Derry Airport Board would present to this Committee

Councillor Boyle advised that he had had the pleasure of being on the CoDA Board for a number of years and noted the complexity of the environment faced by the Airport. He noted that no one else could have manoeuvred the challenges and thanked the Chief Executive, Lead Finance Officer, Lead Assurance Officer and Lead Legal Services Officer for their efforts in securing the PSO.

Councillor Boyle welcomed a conversation about the future of the Airport and the support that could be provided by regional and national governments.

25 Page 69 Alderman McClintock also thanked Officers, noting the pressures and complexities addressed.

Councillor Cooper also commended the work carried out in securing the PSO.

The Committee

Recommended that Members note the award of the London PSO Contract by the Chief Executive under delegated authority during recess to Loganair who will operate the service to London Southend airport following the conclusion of the EU tender process.

Open for Information

GSP110/19 North West Regional Development Group – Minutes of Meeting

The Strategic Business Manager presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update on the meetings of the North West Regional Development Group.

Members noted the content of the report.

GSP111/19 Update on Strategic Growth Partnership – June 2019

The Business Support and Change Manager presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update on the most recent meeting of the Derry City and Strabane Strategic Growth Partnership (Community Planning Partnership - held on Thursday 27 June 2019.

Members noted the content of the report.

GSP112/19 NILGA Draft Corporate Plan and Outcomes Notes

The Business Support and Change Manager presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised

26 Page 70 that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update on the Northern Ireland Local Government Association:

- Draft Corporate Plan for 2019-2023; - Meeting of the Central/Local Government Political Partnership Forum; and - Executive Meeting held in August.

Members noted the content of the report.

GSP113/19 Appointment of Councillors to Board of Port and Harbour Commissioners

The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of the recruitment process for Councillors to the Board of Londonderry Port and Harbour Commissioners (LPHC).

Members noted the content of the report.

GSP114/19 Housing Council

Members noted the content of the report.

The Committee then went into Confidential Business.

27 Page 71 This page is intentionally left blank Page 73 Page 74 Page

City Deal Overview: • CIDRA • CARL • THRIVE • NIGEMS City Deal: Innovation & Digital

World Class Innovation

National Impact

Page 75 Page Complementary to Other City Deals INNOVATON

Critical Mass

Global Markets Centre for Industrial Digitalisation, Robotics

and 76 Page Automation (CIDRA)

Prof. T.M. McGinnity and Dr. J. Quinn CIDRA Addresses Major Impending Challenges for Industry and Commerce and helps prepare for Industry 4.0 – the next industrial revolution

Impending Technological Change for

Page 77 Page Industry and Commerce • Artificial intelligence • Robotics • Automation • Industrial Internet of Things • Industrial digital technologies. Current Status Across the North West region within each council area 11% to 20% of all jobs are in manufacturing industry

Around 25,000 manufacturing jobs in the North West

Page 78 Page region and industry needs support to remain competitive

Innovation and Productivity are the ultimate challenges and critical for company survival – CIDRA will facilitate companies to achieve this. What will CIDRA do? #1

• A source of advanced expertise in the five core technologies in an industrial and commercial context for the benefit of N.I industry

• A template model factory demonstrating agile manufacturing, integrating artificial intelligence, IIoT, robotics, automation, and digital communications into industrial manufacturing process

• 79 Page A facility to allow industry, to see, evaluate and gain hands-on experience in terms of what digital technologies can do for their company (a Digital Transformation Demonstrator)

• A facility for evaluation of designs, rapid implementation and testing of prototypes

• A facility for continuous professional development and skills upgrading for the existing workforce What will CIDRA do? #2

A testbed for research and development in industrial digitalisation, robotics and automation for manufacturing and commerce.

A Centre that builds upon the extensive expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics in the Centre of Excellence in Intelligent Systems at UU Magee campus (the Intelligent System Research Centre) Page 80 Page

Addresses innovation challenges with the option for industry to be part of the delivery, thus accelerating new skills gained through accredited professional development

A regional hub from where University-Industry partnerships can be grown

A location for ongoing technological developments in partnership with industry and commerce – not just manufacturing industry. CARL:

Page 81 Page Cognitive Analytics Research Lab

Peter Devine Head of Strategic Partnerships Introduction to CARL

Page 82 Page • Health

• Financial Technology

• Advance Manufacturing / Energy

• Media

• Civic Society and Public Policy Strategically aligned with government policy

2016 2017 2018 2019 Page 83 Page

Turing institute As part of a and Hartree competitive Centre selection process, £5m £30m CARL Process of Ulster selected to philanthropic Business plan • Turing Report review of AI Design Led join the BBC data Donation to Invest NI for research in NI workshops science research George Moore Industry lead June 2019 facilitated by partnership with 7 Chair in Data research • Hartree Catalyst Inc. other UK universities Analytics centre workshops and MoU October • Early 2017 • September 2017 • October 2018 • October 2018 2019

£4m Ulster New Courses £18m joint £22m SoC to Investment - • MSc Data Science application Derry City Deal Establishment Sep 2017 with CSIT and for CARL of CARL as NI's • Undergraduate CARL to capital build. first Data degree in AI Strength in Sep 19 CARL Belfast to Analytics places fund be based in Institute • July 2018 new Greater • March 2017 Belfast site • October 2018 Why the hype over Data analytics and AI? Page 84 Page

2010 2030 Alignment with industry needs

• Huge level of support and pull from industry in workshops/meetings/visits

• Sectors include: Healthcare; Fintech; Media; Advanced Manufacturing; Page 85 Page Energy; Civic / Public (DfE DfC)

• Founding partners include: Seagate; Allstate; Kainos; Analytics Engines; Fujitsu; United Healthcare/Optum; Pramerica Vision for CARL

Analytics Skills •Departmental PhDs •Industry Funded PhDs •Level 8 Apprenticeships •Skills Academies CARL will emulate the •STEM promotion

success Northern Ireland Commercialisation Analytics Training •MSC programmes •IP Licensing •Industry placements •Spin Outs •Entrepreneurs in has seen in Cyber and •Spin Ins Residence Page 86 Page Fintech to establish CARL Core Northern Ireland as a Research global leader in the field Team Tools & Infrastructure Industry Advisory of Data Analytics and AI •Open Access Tools •Standards •Proprietary Tools •Foresighting •Two Way Secondments •Common industry •Cross Sector problems Pollination Collaborative R&D •Contract Research •Grand Challenge •Deep Exploration •Common, applied problems THRIVE

Health Research Institute Partners:

Page 87 Page Ulster University Northern Ireland Graduate Entry Medical School (NIGEMS), Ulster University Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine, Centre for Personalised Medicine, Clinical Decision Making & Patient Safety; C-TRIC & WHSCT Professor Tony Bjourson (Ulster University) & Professor Aaron Peace (WHSCT) Setting the Context….. Personalised Medicine – a Global Priority ! For Disease Prevention - Better Diagnosis – Better Treatment Page 88 Page

Right Treatment - Right Person - Right Time People Living Longer - Need to Live Well for Longer

• Globally 30-50% Patients don’t respond to a given treatment • Elderly Globally – largest users of healthcare & prescription drugs • Number people over 85 could increase by 58% by 2020 • Number people over 75 could increase by 40% by 2020 - 30% of population could be concurrently on 5-10 medicines. • Prescribing cascade in the elderly (polypharmacy) – demands on healthcare rising GLOBALLY THIS IS NOT SUSTAINABLE – PERSONALISED MEDICINE IS A GLOBAL PRIORITY

16 Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified A Driver for Precision Medicine…… Medicine Incorporating Centre for Personalised Medicine • Where are we located? • Who we are?

• What have we achieved? £11.5M Centre of Excellence Opened - October 2013 Coleraine Altnagelvin Londonderry/Derry • >70 Ulster University Hospital Researchers based in C-TRIC

Page 89 Page Belfast Londonderry/Derry (15 Academic staff, 18 Post Doc Researchers,30 PhD Contract Research-students & support Research staff (e.g. GMI) • Magee Expansion- 100 Hospital- Stratified Medicine Bio- Undergraduate students Derry/LondonDerry Incubati NHS, Clinical on Trials • Coordinate £26M Personalised Medicine Research Grants currently. Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine C-TRIC Company Partnership Model • £ Multimillion Commercial (based at C-TRIC) Belfast contracts – Jobs Created What will THRIVE (HRI) do? The Research Arm of Medical School 1. Spade-ready research centres of excellence…. Based at: • Altnagelvin - C-TRIC Innovation Research Centers for Sustainability: - Secondary Care Focus • Magee: New Health Research • Centre for Pediatric Cancer (£10.5M) Dr Kyle Matchett -Primary & Community Focus • Centre for Neuromuscular Disease (9.5M) • Recruitment Clinics

Dr 90 Page Stephanie Duguez -Strabane-Derry GP Hubs • Mobile Clinic Vehicles • Centre for Personalised Medicine & Multimorbidity (£7.5M) Professor Tony Bjourson • Research & Innovation in Quality Improvement Institute RIQII (£9M) Dr Anne Kilgallen • Centre for Vascular Medicine (£9.8M) Professor Aaron Peace, Dr Victoria McGilligan • Centre for Neuropsyciatric Research Dr Elaine Murray, Dr Paula McClean • Personalised Medicine Data Analytics Centre (£5M) Drs Watterson, Shukla, Duddy, Zhang-Collaborative with CARL • Heath Improvement Products Development Centre (£5M) All NICSM Staff & Collaborative with CIDRA

Dark Hedges, County Antrim (Przemyslaw Zdrojewski) What will THRIVE do? 2. Spade-ready commercial projects….

Business & Community Innovation for Sustainability:

• Community-Owned Health Company Modelled on the financial services credit Union Page 91 Page • Genomics Medicine Ireland (GMI) Partnerships Genomic sequencing contract research • IT/Data Health Company Partnerships Pharma, Diagnostics, Data analytics, Healthcare Sectors • Company Creation & Spin-ins APP and decision tool development • New High-Value Jobs – contract research (Research-Teaching-Commercial) Train the next generation of Doctors & skilled staff in What will THRIVE do? personalised medicine, health data analytics, healthcare policy & economics 3. Spade-ready Taught Courses…. Integrate with NIGEMS Teaching & Skills Development for Sustainability……..

• Medical Degree (Graduate Entry-NIGEMS) (New Course 2021 intake?) • BSc(Hons) 92 Page Personalised Medicine (initiated in 2014) • BSc in Medical/Health Informatics (currently under development) • PgCert/Diploma/MSc Personalised Medicine • (initiated in 2014) • Physicians Associates Postgraduate Diploma (initiated in 2016-relocate to Magee Jan 2020) • Master’s in Medicine ( Psychiatry) (under consideration) Web: • MSc Integrated Community Healthcare & Leadership http://study.ulster.ac.uk/prospectus/course/201415/2911 (under consideration) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/personnalisedhealth

Twitter: https://twitter.com/StratMedicineNI Page 93 Page 94 Page 95 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 8c

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Open Minutes of the Planning Committee Meeting held in the Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Wednesday 4 September 2019 at 12 noon. ______Present: - Councillor Jackson (Chairperson), Aldermen Bresland, Kerrigan, McClintock and Councillors J Barr, Boyle, Dobbins, Durkan, Gallagher, Harkin, Kelly, McGuire, McKinney.

In Attendance: - Head of Planning (Ms M Fox), Head of Planning Performance and Improvement (Mr E Molloy), Lead Legal Services Officer (Mr P Kingston), Principal Planning Officers (Mrs A McNee, Mr P McCaughey, Mrs S McCracken), Senior Planning Officers (Mr K Donaghey, Miss S Barrett, Mr J Spottiswood, Mr M McCarron, Mr J McNee), Business Services Officer (Mrs L McKean), Committee Services Assistant (Mrs J Short). ______

P94/19 Notice and Summons for Meeting

The Head of Planning read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.

P95/19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Head of Planning completed the roll call and noted apologies for Councillor Logue.

P96/19 Declarations of Members’ Interests

Councillor Dobbins declared an interest in planning application LA11/2018/0848/F.

Open for Decision

Chairperson’s Business

P97/19 Expression of Sympathy

The Chair expressed his condolences to Alderman Bresland on the recent death of his wife Lila and to Councillor J Barr on the recent death of his grandmother Nellie Barr.

P98/19 Order of Business

1 Page 97 The Chair referred to the high volume of planning applications to be presented following the Council recess period. He suggested that Members consider only taking half of the applications today and the remaining applications would be deferred to a Special Meeting of Planning scheduled to take place later in the month. He said that this approach reflected a more efficient management of time and avoided speakers associated with the applications having to sit through the meeting for a lengthy period of time only to discover that their application would not be presented today.

Discussion ensued after which it was agreed that the following applications would be presented and the remaining would be deferred to a Special Planning Committee Meeting scheduled to take place on 23 September 2019.

. LA11/2018/0237/O . LA11/2018/0698/O . LA11/2018/0897/F . LA11/2017/1132/F . LA11/2018/0854/O . LA11/2018/0356/O . LA11/2018/0139/F . LA11/2017/0913/O . LA11/2019/0127/F . LA11/2019/0124/O . P99/19 Site Visit Deferrals

Members noted site visit deferrals for the following planning applications listed for decision:

. LA11/2017/0251/F . LA11/2018/0481/F . LA11/2018/1053/O . P100/19 Late Information Received

The Head of Planning reported that late information was received in respect to planning application LA11/2018/0686/F and the application would be deferred to allow for further consultation after which the application would be returned for consideration by Committee. Members noted late information received for the following applications:

2 Page 98 . LA11/2017/1077/F . LA11/2018/0356/O . LA11/2017/0251/F . LA11/2017/0913/O . LA11/2018/0481/F . LA11/2018/1191/F . LA11/2019/0127/F . LA11/2018/0686/F . LA11/2018/1038/O . J/2011/0082/F . LA11/2019/0075/F . LA11/2019/0099/O

P101/19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Planning Committee Meeting held on Wednesday 3 July 2019

The Open Minutes of Planning Committee meeting held on 3 July 2019 (P72/19-P88/19) were agreed and signed by the Chair of Committee.

Matters Arising

P102/19 Planning application: LA11/2018/0817/O

The Lead Legal Services Officer in response to Councillor Kelly confirmed that no legal advice was received to date.

P103/19 Deferred Applications

Councillor Kelly referred to those applications that be returned for further consideration/consultation and queried the time frame and how this impacted on statistics in going forward. The Head of Planning Performance and Improvement agreed to provide an update report at a future meeting.

P104/19 Planning Applications List with Recommendation for Decision

The Lead Legal Services Officer reminded Members that in line with Planning protocol, they are not permitted to contribute to the discussion or vote unless they were present for the entirety of an item. He noted that the Council had a responsibility to ensure that business was completed. The need for a quorum for reconsiderations could present a challenge to this. Reconsiderations should therefore be considered as the item being presented afresh and Members should

3 Page 99 consider the entirety of the documentation and the Minutes of the previous Meeting. Provided they had done so they could contribute to the debate and vote on reconsiderations.

Reconsidered Applications

LA11/2018/0237/O – Site for two storey farm dwelling and detached domestic garage at site 80 metres north of 5 Tagharina Road, Lower Tully, Newbuildings, Londonderry.

The Head of Planning presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an overview of the background to the application and advised that on further consideration of all points the professional opinion to refuse planning permission remained for reasons as outlined within the report. She further advised however, that if Members were minded to overturn the recommendation that conditions without prejudice were included in the report.

The Members received speaking rights from Mr Adrian Browne, agent. Councillor Kelly referred to the proposal being contrary to CTY 10 part (b) of PPS 21 in that two development opportunities having been ‘sold off’, being transferred to family members in the previous 10 years. He alluded to the fact that from DAERA perspective, they have encouraged farmers to off-load to family members in order to avoid huge inheritance tax, however Planning Policy contradicts DAERA’s advice and this caused him great concern and he sought clarification in that respect.

The PPO advised that whilst she acknowledged the concerns raised by Councillor Kelly her professional opinion was solely based on evidence provided by the applicant which had resulted in non-compliance with Policy CTY 10 (a) of PPS 21.

Councillor McKinney and Councillor Gallagher left the room at this stage.

Alderman Kerrigan joined the meeting at this stage.

Discussion ensued after which Councillor Kelly moved, seconded by Alderman McClintock not to accept the officer recommendation to refuse planning permission.

4 Page 100 The outcome of the vote: For 6, Against 0, Abstention 5. The proposal was carried.

For 6, Against 0, Abstention 5 – Proposal was carried.

The Committee

Resolved not to accept the officer recommendation to refuse planning application LA11/2018/0237/O and for planning approval to be granted with conditions attached.

LA11/2018/0698/O - Proposed erection of dwelling and domestic garage adjacent to and south-east of 61 Woodend Road, Strabane.

The Head of Planning presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an overview of the background to the application and advised that the original recommendation to refuse planning permission remained, however, if Members were minded to approve that conditions without prejudice were provided within the report.

The Members received speaking rights from Mr Les Ross, agent acting on behalf of the applicant. Councillor Kelly stated that, in his opinion, there was no test for visual linkage under the current policy and it was apparent to him that the only obvious location for the site was from the farm yard.

The Head of Planning clarified that visual linkage test existed and that was the reason for refusal.

Discussion ensued after which Councillor Kelly moved, seconded by Alderman Bresland not to accept the recommendation to refuse planning permission.

The outcome of the vote; For 5, Against 0, Abstention 6 the proposal was carried.

The Committee

Resolved not to accept the officer recommendation to refuse planning application

5 Page 101 LA11/2018/0698/O and for planning approval to be granted with conditions attached.

Councillor Dobbins joined the meeting at this stage.

LA11/2018/0897/F - Retention of change of use from home/dwelling to three self-catering cottages at 37A Upper Galliagh Road, Elagh, Derry.

The Head of Planning presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an update on the current status of the application that was presented for reconsideration and advised Members that if they were minded to not accept the recommendation to refuse that conditions without prejudice were provided.

Councillor Boyle expressed the view that he would be minded to support approval of the application on the grounds of economic consideration.

Discussion ensued after which Members unanimously agreed not to accept the Officer recommendation to refuse planning permission.

The Committee

Resolved that planning application LA11/2018/0897/F be granted planning permission subject to the conditions as provided.

LA11/2017/1132/F - Change of use from dwelling to 4 No. apartments at 24 Coshquin Road, Derry.

The Head of Planning presented the above application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an update on the current position of the application and, based on further review, consideration has been given to issues outlined in the report including discussions raised at previous Planning Committee, recent H2 housing approval close to this site and other recent built form has resulted in a change of character.

6 Page 102 The Members received speaking rights from Mr Adrian Heaney, applicant.

Discussion ensued after which it was agreed on the proposal of Councillor Boyle, seconded by Alderman McClintock to accept the Officer recommendation to approve planning subject to conditions as provided within the report.

The outcome of the vote; For 11, Against 0, Abstention 2.

APPLICATIONS RETURNED AFTER SITE INSPECTIONS

LA11/2018/0356/O - Site for dwelling and domestic garage at lands immediately south-west of 92 Camus Road, Douglas Bridge.

The PPO presented the above application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She reported that, having considered all material considerations and relevant planning policies, the recommendation to refuse planning permission remained for reasons as outlined within the report.

The Members received speaking rights from Mr Joe McCormick, agent and Mr Noel O’Kane, applicant.

The PPO advised Members that as outlined within the report the reason for refusal was based upon insufficient information provided by the applicant.

Discussion ensued after which Councillor McGuire moved, seconded by Councillor Boyle not to accept the officer recommendation to refuse planning permission.

The outcome of the vote was unanimous.

The Committee

Resolved not to accept the recommendation to refuse planning application LA11/2018/0356/O. The application would be returned for further consideration.

NEW APPLICATIONS

7 Page 103

LA11/2018/0139/F - Proposed additional bedroom unit attached to rear of No 86 Duncreggan Road, L'Derry already in HMO use at 86 Duncreggan Road, L'Derry.

The Senior Planning Officer presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. He provided an overview of the background to the application and, based on material consideration and in line with planning policies recommended not to grant planning permission for reasons as outlined within the report.

Members received speaking rights from Mr Christopher Neff, Agent.

Discussion ensued after which Councillor Dobbins moved, seconded by Councillor Gallagher to accept the Officer recommendation to refuse planning permission.

The outcome of the votes was unanimous.

The Committee

Resolved that planning application LA11/2018/0139/F be refused planning permission for reasons as outlined within the report.

LA11/2017/0913/O - Proposed site for dwelling and garage on a farm at site approx. 100m SE of 110 Urney Road, Strabane.

The Principal Planning Officer presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an overview of the background to the application and advised that further information and a set of accounts had been received regarding the application which she had issued to Members for their information. She further advised however, that if Members were minded to overturn the recommendation that conditions without prejudice were included in the report.

The Members received speaking rights from Mr Gourley, agent on behalf of the applicant.

Councillor McGuire enquired if the applicant owned any other land along the roadside and also asked for more clarity regarding the accounts for the farm.

8 Page 104

In response, Mr Gourley advised that there was a single field along the roadside with a track where there was access to the next set of fields and was habitually used by the owner.

Mr Gourley then outlined that receipts for the sales of round bales from 2010 to 2018 and associated costs were submitted and that sufficient evidence has been provided to demonstrate activity. He added that the owner was still actively managing the land to keep it in good agricultural condition.

Councillor Gallagher referred to the proposed building of flood defences in that area and asked if any access had been proposed.

In response, Mr Gourley advised that the Rivers Agency had agreed with the applicant to upgrade the farm track to a lane to enable access to carry out works for flood defences.

Councillor Gallagher asked the Planning Officer about an objection that had been received regarding flooding in that area.

In response, the Planning Officer advised that there would be no concerns regarding flooding in that area as a flood alleviation scheme would be carried out.

In response to a query by Councillor Harkin, the Planning Officer stated that the first set of accounts had not specified the sale of bales, just general sales. The second set of accounts had specified the sale of bales, however the information received in terms of receipts had been addressed to the applicant therefore, there was no clear evidence provided.

She further advised that the information provided was not new information as the receipts had been submitted in 2018. However, the agent had expressed concern that the information had not been uploaded onto the planning portal nor clearly referenced, therefore it had been provided as late information to prevent ambiguity on the matter. She stated that the information provided did not illustrate evidence of active farming.

Alderman Kerrigan stated that the vast majority of agricultural contractors did not always provide adequate or detailed paperwork in terms of sales or work carried out.

9 Page 105

Councillor McGuire stated that, in his opinion, the application was CTY10 compliant and proposed that Members did not accept the officer’s recommendation as the application met the criteria of CTY10 (a).

Councillor McGuire moved, seconded by Alderman Kerrigan not to accept the officer recommendation.

The outcome of the vote was unanimous and

The Committee

Resolved not to accept the Officer’s recommendation to refuse planning application LA11/2017/0913/O

LA11/2019/0127/F – Creation of 7 new residential units comprising of renovation and extension of existing courtyard to create 2 No. 1-bed self-contained supported living units. Demolition of garage and construction of 5 No. new build C1 (b) supported living units incorporating 3 No. 2-bed units, 2 No. 1-bed units, staff provision and shared communal workshop for social activities. Renovation and adaption of existing dwelling (including partial demolition and extension) to provide C1 (b) supported living provision for 6 residents. The proposals include replacement of a number of TPO tress and realignment of boundary wall along Curley Hill Road to improve access to the site and facilitate development. A separate outline application on adjacent land at 11 Curley Hill Road, Strabane BT82 8LP .

The Senior Planning Officer presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an overview of the background to the application and, on material consideration and in line with planning policy, recommended approval for reasons outlined within the report.

Members received speaking rights from Mr McMenamin regional Manager, Mencap.

Councillors Dobbins and Kelly stated that they wished to commend Mencap on all the work undertaken to provide supported living provision in the Strabane area.

10 Page 106 Discussion ensued after which Councillor Kelly moved, seconded by Councillor Dobbins to accept the officer recommendation and for planning permission to be granted subject to the conditions as outlined in the report.

The Chair commended the contribution from Mr McMenamin and wished Mencap all the best with the development.

The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.

The Committee

Resolved that planning application LA11/2019/0127/F be granted planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined in the report.

Councillor Kelly suggested that a post-site visit be organised for Members to view the development prior to the official opening.

The Lead Legal Services Officer advised that the invitation be extended to all Members of Council in due course.

LA11/2019/0124/O – Short term break accommodation in Use Class C3(a) for up to 7 residents with associated staff provision at 11 Curleyhill Road, Strabane BT82 8LP.

The Planning Officer presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. He provided an overview of the application and, based on material consideration and in line with planning policy, recommended an approval for reasons as outlined within the report.

Members received speaking rights from Mr McMenamin on behalf of the applicant.

Councillor Dobbins moved, seconded by Councillor Gallagher to accept the officer recommendation to approve planning permission.

The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.

The Committee

11 Page 107 Resolved to accept the officer recommendation to approve planning application LA11/2019/0124/O subject to the conditions as outlined in the report.

LA11/2018/0854/O – Erection of single storey dwelling and garage at lands 120m north-west of 74 Ligford Road, Plumbridge.

Councillor Kelly described the recommendation as harsh, and that whilst he understood the perspective of planning officers in terms of CTY6, however he referred to the Strabane Area Plan, particularly regarding rural housing applications which stated that, ‘a less restrictive planning policy will be applied throughout this area and applicants seeking planning permission for single dwellings will not have to demonstrate a need to live in the countryside.’ He stated that the application had been refused on the grounds of lack of demonstrable need, however the Strabane Area Plan clearly stated that anyone applying for single houses in that area would not have to demonstrate a need to live in the countryside.

The Chair stated that he attended the site visit at that location and described the area as being in a ‘remote location’ and concerns had been referenced regarding the caring responsibilities of the applicant. He stated that given those responsibilities in such a remote area that it was ‘site specific’ as it is some distance from a settlement or on the boundary of a settlement.

The Head of Planning advised Members that this was a particular policy which existed within PPS 21 currently and that only in exceptional circumstances with relevant evidence can it be applied. Members could be setting a wide precedent in the District if the application was approved.

Councillor Boyle concurred with the remarks made by the Head of Planning and stated that the report had outlined insufficient evidence in support of the applicant. He stated that, in his opinion, there was a danger if the recommendation was overturned that would ignore many

12 Page 108 of the planning policies pertaining to development and, therefore, he would not be supporting the proposal to accept the application.

Councillor Kelly stated that, whilst he understood the concerns regarding making a precedent, the Strabane Area Plan had clearly stated that it was perfectly acceptable and that decisions must be made in line with the area plan. He stated that it was quite specific within the rural remainder policy to address locations such as those outlined in the report.

Councillor Gallagher expressed concerns regarding the proposal made by Councillor Kelly. He stated that it was important to take the weight of the argument given by the planning officers and then the argument and experience of Councillors. However, if the argument was not provided in weight then Members had to be cautious before making a decision.

Councillor McKinney suggested that Members consider all the information and come back at a later date.

Councillor Boyle stated that the Strabane Area Plan was significantly out-of-date as was the Derry Area Plan. He stated that he could not support an application with a lack of sufficient information.

Councillor Kelly moved, seconded by Alderman Kerrigan not to support the recommendation to refuse planning permission as outlined in the report.

The outcome of the vote was as follows;

For – 8; Against – 2; Abstentions – 3. The proposal was therefore carried and the Committee

Resolved not to accept the officer recommendation to refuse planning application LA11/2018/0854/O.

The application would be considered further and returned to Committee.

LA11/2018/0848/F – Retention of 5 No. detached bungalows and garages (Proposed change of house type and reduction in density from previously approve scheme – A/2004/0897), Sites 187-191

13 Page 109 Oak Country Manor Housing Development, off Crescent Link, Londonderry.

Councillor Dobbins declared an interest and left the meeting at this point.

The Principal Planning Officer presented the above application, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. She provided an overview of the background to the application and, based on material consideration and in line with planning policy, confirmed that a recommendation to approve planning permission as outlined within the report.

Discussion ensued after which Alderman Kerrigan moved, seconded by Councillor Boyle to accept the recommendation to approve planning permission.

The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.

The Committee

Resolved to endorse the officer recommendation to approve planning application LA11/2018/0848/F.

P105/19 DAERA Consultation on Forestry Plan Scoping for West Tyrone

The Principal Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of this report is to advise Members that Council has been consulted on the scoping of a Forestry Plan for West Tyrone and, given that forestry and woodlands are a potentially important land use in the District, it is proposed that the Planning Committee considers and sends the attached response (Appendix 29) to DAERA Forest Service.

Councillor Dobbins stated that any proposed forestry plans should be welcomed. She stated that although the recommendations were ‘soft’ they were to be welcomed in an environmental capacity.

Councillor Kelly welcomed the letter and stated that some forests planted in his area did not seem to be connected to the wider landscape. He further stated that in his opinion, that approach would be detrimental to the aesthetics of the landscape and although

14 Page 110 addressed within the response, enquired if officers had considered this in the LDP. He stated that it was important when laying out their forestry that it was connected and followed the contours of the landscape rather than buying a farm and planting it with spruce trees. He suggested that native species of trees should also be considered rather than just pure spruce plantations which were not native trees to the area.

In response, the Principal Planning Officer concurred with the remarks made by Councillor Kelly. He stated that the wording of the considerations showed that they were being much more sensitive to all of those issues. He stated that the elements set out in the consultation did consider the visual impact to the landscape, softer borders with much more of a mixed forestry and more of a mixed nature of deciduous species particularly on the boundaries to give softer lines. He stated that the consultation was very positive and that officers emphasised those points in the response but it was important that we were not just bounding our District with forests which would be detrimental to the LDP objectives to sustain vibrant, rural communities.

Councillor McGuire recalled that in previous years, once forests had been cut down a lot of acreage in those areas was used as forms of renewable energy. He stated that it was important to have clarity on the matter and Members were consulted regarding future plans for those harvested areas.

In response, the Principal Planning Officer stated that the consultation had mentioned regenerating the forests in a different way, however there had been no mention of any alternative land uses or renewable energy applications. He stated that if Members were content that Council would like to be consulted on the matter and could be added to the response as a consideration.

Councillor Kelly enquired if mapping of the forestry land throughout the District be designated within the LDP.

In response, the Principal Planning Officer stated that forestry, like agriculture, would not be designated within the LDP, however it would be referenced in the background papers. He added that one of the aspirations in the plan was to increase biodiversity and tree cover, however it would not be illustrated within the document.

15 Page 111 Councillor Kelly asked how they were going to show that further forestry had been developed and protected within the plan timeline throughout the district.

In response, the Principal Planning Officer stated that annual monitoring and a five year review would be carried out, however this was largely outside of the planning remit as planning applications were not required to plant trees or fell trees. He stated that the Forestry Service had engaged more with the public, Councils and stakeholders.

The Head of Planning advised that in France certain agricultural areas were protected and preserved for the economy of a particular region. She advised that the matter had not been raised within the LDP.

The Chair asked if it was possible that a report be brought to a future Committee meeting to consider different options that may be available early on in the planning stages to afford that same level of protection.

In response, the Head of Planning stated that reference to this would have needed to be made at an earlier stage as matters could not be unexpectedly designated at a later state in the LDP process.

The Principal Planning Officer stated that the matter was not currently an issue, adding that land use and cover would be referenced within the LDP. He advised that forestry throughout the district would be monitored on an annual basis with a much greater awareness would be there to monitor the progress and the protection of biodiversity over the next five years.

Councillor Harkin stated issues such as forestry would be discussed and developed in the future to meet the needs in terms of climate change and that flexibility was important to change or include such issues within local development plans.

Councillor Kelly stated that there were issues in a broader context regarding forestry as forestry was protected in the district due to landowners receiving a subsidy. He stated that, if the payment of the subsidy ceased, a situation could arise where an area could be cleared resulting with swathes of forestry land disappearing with no repercussions. He stated that it was important for work to continue regarding forestry, particularly when the county was reported as the least forested part of Europe.

16 Page 112 The Committee

Recommended Members agree to Planning Officers responding to DAERA Forest Service with the letter as set out in Appendix 29 with the addition of highlighting issues regarding forestry.

P106/19 DfC Consultation on Affordable Housing Definition

The Principal Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members that the Department for Communities (DfC) is undertaking a public consultation on the proposed changes to the Definition of Affordable Housing and, given that affordable housing is an important issue in the District, it is proposed that the Planning Committee considers and sends the attached response (Appendix 30) to DfC.

Councillor Gallagher stated that other factors must be considered such as the bedroom tax and also matching families to the current available housing stock. He added that planning officers had to consider the matter of housing quality matching affordability.

In response to a query from Councillor Dobbins, the Principal Planning Officer stated debates had taken place around the pro’s and con’s and merits of right-to-buy and whether it should be considered as part of the definition. He further stated that such a debate was considered unnecessary within a planning definition, however it may be valid for housing authorities and associations.

Councillor Dobbins further enquired if an area would be zoned for affordable housing to allow the location of social housing if the need had been identified.

In response, the Principal Planning Officer stated that it was within the policy to promote affordable housing and similarly to allow for an exception to areas defined for social housing need. He advised that all housing should be developed on housing land, however where there was an area for social housing need an exception could be made. However, if the exception was made for affordable housing which is much more general, it could undermine the potential soundness of the LDP if that wider definition was adopted.

17 Page 113

Councillor Kelly asked if the response was made from a planning perspective rather than in a broader sense where Council could respond.

In response, the Lead Legal Services Officer stated that he was not aware of the matter being raised at any of the other Committees. However, any individual or party could respond as it is an open consultation.

The Chair advised Members that the consultation closed on 13 September, therefore this provided limited scope in terms of a broader response. The outcome of the vote; For 12, Against 0, Abstention 1.

The Committee

Recommended that Members agree to Planning officers responding to the Department for the Communities with the letter as set out in Appendix 30.

P107/19 Wind Farm Appeal to An Bord Pleanála against Refusal of Planning Application by Donegal County Council for Proposed Wind Farm Development at Momeen and Lettergull, Lifford, Co. Donegal

The Senior Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members of receipt of a letter from An Bord Pleanála dated 12 August 2019 and a consultation letter from DFI Strategic Planning Division dated 15 August 2019 in relation to application LA11/2018/0937/TBA for the erection of a wind farm in Co. Donegal (see attached Appendix 31).

18 Page 114

Councillor Boyle stated that Council should be supporting Donegal in relation to the appeal, particularly in respect of the plans for the transport corridor in east Donegal.

Councillor Kelly expressed concern that the company had still not supplied the additional information as requested.

The Principal Planning Officer advised that the information received recently had not differed within the environmental statement and that no additional visual information had submitted from An Bord Pleanála.

Councillor Kelly stated that such matters should to be brought to the attention of An Bord Pleanána. He emphasised that the plans for the transport corridor were an enormous project for the northwest infrastructure which must not be in any way prejudiced.

The Committee

Recommended that a visual interpretation must be submitted and also the impact on the northwest transport corridor to be included in the response.

Open for Information

P108/19 Appeals Update

The Principal Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to appraise Members on planning appeals currently in the system. A background table was enclosed in Appendix 33 showing the current status of any live appeals and any decisions made since the last Meeting.

Councillor Kelly enquired if costs awarded to Council regarding a recent appeal and asked if it had ever reached a conclusion.

The Lead Legal Services Officer advised that the matter of fees was currently under dispute. Members noted the content of the above report.

19 Page 115 P109/19 Enforcement Review April-June 2019 (1st Quarter)

The Senior Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the progress made by the Planning Enforcement section for the first Quarter of the business year 2019 - 2020.

Members noted the content of the above report.

P110/19 Consultation from DfI on Draft Development Plan Practice Note DPPN 10 – Submitting Development Plan Documents for Independent Examination

The Principal Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members that DfI Strategic Planning Directorate has issued a Draft Development Plan Practice Note, DPPN 10 - Submitting Development Plan Documents for Independent Examination. The Draft was received by Council on 22nd July 2019 and any comments were sought before 30th August, to allow the Department to publish in its final form in September 2019. A copy of the consultation letter and the Draft DPPN 10 are attached at Appendices 35 and 36 respectively. Planning Officers have considered the draft document and have provisionally issued the comments set out in the response letter at Appendix 37.

Members noted the content of the above report.

P111/19 Provisional Tree Preservation Order (pTPO) at Derry Road, Strabane

The Senior Planning Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members that Council has recently served a Provisional Tree Preservation Order (pTPO) on lands at 32 to 36 Derry Road, Strabane. The report advises Members on the reason for serving this pTPO and the procedure for carrying this Order forward. A copy of the Provisional TPO, including Map, is attached at Appendix 38.

The Head of Planning advised that only a temporary (Provisional) TPO was currently in place on the site and that the process for a permanent TPO was ongoing.

20 Page 116

Councillor Gallagher stated that he was aware of anti-social behaviour in that area and demolition had taken place recently on that site and asked for more information regarding the process.

In response, the Head of Planning outlined the process including advising on the submission with a report regarding the nature of the trees on the site and owners/those affected/interested parties having the opportunity to make representation at a future meeting. She further stated that Planning Department have delegated powers to make the provisional TPO, however the Committee must make the decision regarding a full TPO and all information regarding the matter would be returned and presented in a report.

In response, to a query from Councillor Dobbins, the Senior Planning Officer stated that any work carried on a protected tree without permission was a direct offence with quite substantial fines in the region of approximately £10,000.

The Lead Legal Services Officer then advised that the fine was theoretically completely unlimited.

Members noted the content of the above report and the attached copy of the Provisional TPO.

P112/19 List of Decisions Issued – July and August 2019

Members noted for information the List of Decisions issued during the months of July and August 2019.

The meeting went into confidential business.

The meeting ended at 7.50pm.

21 Page 117 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 8d

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Open Minutes of Business and Culture Committee Meeting held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Tuesday 10 September 2019 at 4.00pm.

______

Present:- Councillor McCloskey (in the Chair); Councillors J Barr, R Barr, Cooper, Duffy, Farrell, Kelly, Logue, McCann and McLaughlin.

Non-Committee Members: Alderman McClintock and Devenney

In Attendance:- Director of Business and Culture (Mr S Gillespie), Head of Business (Mr K O’Connor), Head of Culture (Ms A McCarter) PA to Director of Business & Culture (Ms J Galloway-Doherty) and Committee Services Assistant (Mrs J Short).

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BC105/19 Notice and Summons of Meeting

The Director of Business and Culture read the Notice and Summons for the meeting.

BC106 /19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Director of Business and Culture completed the roll call and recorded apologies received from Alderman Warke, Ramsey and Councillor’s Cusack and Carr.

BC107 /19 Declarations of Members’ Interests

Councillor Cooper declared an interest in Agenda Item: Presentation from Visit Derry.

BC108 /19 Deputation: Visit Derry

Mr Don Wilmont, Chairperson and Mr Odhran Dunne, General Manager of Visit Derry attended the meeting and provided an update on the roles and functions of Visit Derry.

Page 119 2

Mr Wilmont firstly paid tribute to the contribution that the Director of Business and Culture made in his role as Company Secretary and to Councillor’s Cusack and Cooper as Members of the Board. He also acknowledged the work of Alderman Ramsey who had subsequently retired from the Board in June 2019.

Both Mr Dunne and Mr Wilmont proceeded to make the presentation (a copy of which was previously circulated to Members) the presentation also included a video of key activities.

The Members noted the following:

About Visit Derry

 Visit Derry (formerly DVCB) is a not for profit public-private sector tourism partnership with a membership based delivery model and a company limited by guarantee  The partnership was established in 1995 by the Council as the first of its kind established in Ireland and modelled on the Boston Visitor and Convention Bureau  The Company was established to lead on destination marketing to promote the city and region to the national and international tourism markets and deliver visitor servicing through its gateway visitor information centre via a Service Level Agreement with DCSDC.  The membership of Visit Derry is open to any tourism related business and it currently attracts a membership of 280 businesses that support the companies efforts to grow tourism to the region.

Roles and Functions

 Destination marketing to national and international markets  Visitor servicing (delivery of an international standard gateway visitor information centre and associated services welcoming 100k visitors per annum)  Industry Engagement /Business Development  Influence and Advocacy of tourism proposition

Page 120 3

Re-location of Visit Derry

 New centre opening Spring 2020: - to create a new international standard state of the art Visitor Centre welcome experience that will service the needs of locals and international visitors

Our Vision for the Destination

 A recognised international tourism destination on the island of Ireland  A confident, vibrant, forward looking City and District that provides the best of all worlds, offering city, coastal and countryside experiences

 A destination recognised as:

- hosting Ireland’s only completely walled city - providing opportunities to spend time exploring areas of outstanding natural beauty in the region - a vibrant ‘city of culture’ that is friendly and welcoming with new stories to tell - Key Actions for Growth

 DCSDC to implement the findings of its Independent Review of Visit Derry commissioned in 2018 to support Visit Derry’s delivery of relevant Tourism Strategy targets and actions  The report findings ‘Clearly identified that Visit Derry is under resourced and there is a need to increase investment in order to reach the objectives set both by the Tourism Strategy and the Strategic Growth Plan  Increase the investment in tourism for the city region  Support the Strategic Investment and operational delivery of a new International Gateway Visitor Information Centre  Support key deliverables within the New Tourism Strategy  Deliver a successful public-private sector partnership for the benefit of both the city and wider region

The Deputy Chair invited Members to seek points of clarification if they so wished;

Page 121 4

Alderman McClintock thanked the representatives for their presentation. She referred to the video footage and said that it made one proud to be a citizen of the City and District. She said that the visitor numbers to the City was phenomenal and she was delighted to see the growth of the market product. She sought assurance that the tour guide offering was enough to cover all areas of the City tourist attractions.

Councillor McLaughlin thanked the representatives for the presentation. She said that she was encouraged by the significant increase in the number of bed night occupancy throughout the City and District. She also recognised the significant amount of work achieved by Visit Derry despite tight budget pressures. She praised the collaborative work achieved in bringing a major conference to the City next week. She also said that she would be keen to see more private sector investment as local businesses benefited economically due to the increase in visitors to the area.

Councillor Cooper thanked the representatives for the update. He concurred with the previous speakers comments. He added that there needed to be more development of the product in rural areas throughout the District. He referred to the connection to the Wild Atlantic Way for example that provided an opportunity to promote the District as a base for visitors to stayover. He referred to the major festivals planned in the City and District that attracted thousands of visitors to the area and would provide a much needed boost to the economy. He also referred to the development opportunity at the Ebrington site and he had every confidence that the targets set would be achieved by 2025. He wished Visit Derry continued success with the future delivery of its product to grow tourism throughout the national and international tourism markets.

Alderman Devenney thanked the representatives for the update. He referred to the video presentation provided at the Meeting and said that he was most proud to be associated with the City given the tourism attractions on offer. He added that he was encouraged to note that the rural areas were promoted as part of the tourism product by Visit Derry.

Councillor Farrell referred to his recent visit to Dubrovnik and how he had purchased a combined ticket to visit the numerous tourist attractions which proved most cost effective. He suggested that Visit

Page 122 5

Derry consider a similar tourism offering for site visits throughout the City and District.

Councillor Kelly referred to the Council’s Planning Committee wherein applications presented for tourism accommodation be recommended for refusal because of no demonstrable need for what was applied for. He queried if Visit Derry had any influence in the Local Development Planning (LDP) process so to address this issue from a tourism perspective. He also referred to tourism advertisements as seen on television and the lack of reference made to the tourism offering west of the band and in that regard would be keen to receive an update from Tourism NI.

Councillor McCann commented that the Derry Walls tourist attraction represented cutting edge European history and there was an opportunity to promote the Derry Walls as part of a tourist trail of walled cities right across Europe.

The representatives responded to Members comments/queries as follows:

 Visit Derry continued to encourage an increase in private sector funding towards the initiative.  Visit Derry is not a statutory consultee in terms of the Planning process but would be content to provide statistical information if requested.  Visit Derry was included in discussions in the development of a tourism project with North West partners funded by the North West Development Group. (Council Officers confirmed this).  Guided tours offer is generated by the private sector and community groups are also encouraged to become involved.  Visit Derry was currently working with the Council’s Tourism Development team on a Walled City Tourist Pass so to integrate the visitor experience, however the progress of the initiative was funding dependent at present.  Representation on the European Walled Network was confirmed.

The Deputy Chair thanked the representatives for their contribution to discussion and for providing points of clarification to Members.

The representatives left the meeting at this stage.

Page 123 6

Open for Decision

BC109/19 Chairperson’s Business

The Deputy Chair had no business.

BC110 /19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 9 July 2019.

The Open Minutes of the Business and Culture Committee Meeting (BC85/19-BC102/19) held on 9 July 2019 were agreed subject to the following amendment:

Councillor Cooper was not recorded as in attendance at the meeting.

BC111/19 Matters Arising

There were no matters arising from the minutes of the Business and Culture Committee Meeting held on 9 July 2019.

BC112/19 Angling Fair 2019

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to provide Members with an evaluation of the North West Angling Fair 2019 and to present options for the event moving forward.

Councillor Kelly welcomed the report. He acknowledged the difficulty that the inclement weather had caused at the Derg site in Castlederg during the event held in April 2019, that resulted in the relocation to the St Eugene’s GAA pitch. Notwithstanding that he would however support the relocation of the event in 2020 to Melvin Sports Complex and the outreach programmes in Castlederg and Newtownstewart prior to the event. He further queried if there was any scope to engage with DAERA in terms of funding availability towards the event.

Councillor McCann also welcomed the report. He referred to the need to develop angling as a tourism attraction and to encourage clean waterways throughout the District and North West. He referred to former celebrity singer turned environmental campaigner Feargal Sharkey, who was a keen fly-fisherman and had raised awareness of environmental issues and river pollution in particular and supported the

Page 124 7

River Faughan Anglers campaign and suggested that he be used as part of the promotional campaign for the event.

Alderman Devenney also welcomed the report. He referred to the locations of the outreach programmes and suggested that Plumbridge be considered.

Councillor J Barr concurred with previous speakers remarks in relation to the event.

The Head of Culture thanked the Members for their support with the move of location of the Angling Fair 2020 to Strabane. She assured them that all relevant locations were explored to facilitate the outreach programmes and Castlederg and Newtownstewart were deemed the most suitable to attract a wider rural benefit in the run up to the event.

The Committee

Recommended that Council notes the contents of the above report and approves the location of the event for 2019.

BC113 /19 Strabane BID Review & Implementation of Recommendations

The Head of Business presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the Mid-Term Review of the Strabane Business Improvement District and seek approval on elements requiring Council intervention.

Councillor McLaughlin referred to the establishment of the BID Company in 2016 and the time-period that had lapsed without any evidence of progress which in her opinion was primarily due to no Town Centre BID Manager in post to drive forward the BID Programme key recommendations endorsed by the Board as outlined within the report. She therefore supported wholeheartedly the appointment of a Manager and urged that the recruitment process be accelerated so that a physical presence was on the ground to communicate and engage with the retailers as a matter of urgency.

Councillor R Barr endorsed the previous speaker’s comments and supported the appointment of a BID Manager.

Page 125 8

Councillor Kelly commented that whilst there seemed to be a lack of focus with the delivery of the programme he had to acknowledge the work that had been achieved by Officers. He also hoped that the out workings of the review would not have a consequential effect on the rate payer. He agreed that it was imperative that a BID Manager was appointed as soon as possible and queried the anticipated timeframe.

The Head of Business in response to Members referred to the outcome of the review and the recommendation to recruit additional Directors to the BID Company; he clarified that over recent weeks 3 new Board Members were appointed, one of which was the Managing Director of O’Neills Sportswear. He said that the appointment would provide much needed strategic direction and value to the progression of the BID Business Plan in going forward. He also clarified that in relation to the recruitment time line for the BID Manager, that following endorsement of the recommendation by Full Council on 26 September 2019, the post would be advertised and hopefully the selection process completed by November 2019 and appointment made by January 2020.

The Committee

Recommended that Council endorse the contents of the report and approve the recruitment of a Town Centre BID Manager on a fixed term basis up to November 2021 with the potential for extension subject to the successful balloting of a second BID mandate.

BC114 /19 Christmas 2019 – Programming and Marketing Plans

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the programming and marketing plans for Christmas 2019.

Alderman McClintock welcomed the report. She referred to the Marketing Activities as outlined within the report and the ‘buzz’ style messages and asked that the word Londonderry be included as the word Strabane on the messaging examples as this provided inclusiveness for all citizens from the City and wider District.

Page 126 9

Councillor Duffy also welcomed the report and voiced support of the previous speaker’s suggestion. She expressed her excitement with the impending programme of events throughout the City and District and in particular the community events planned.

Alderman Devenney welcomed the report. He however sought clarification in regards to the allocation of £1k funding to the 3 specific communities as listed and queried why other areas didn’t avail of similar funding allocation.

Councillor Farrell referred to the location of the programme of events hosted at the Guildhall Square and queried if any consideration had been given to using the Ebrington site.

The Head of Culture in response to Members clarified that the £1k funding grant allocation to the 3 communities had been inherited from the former legacy Strabane Council and the existing budget or process did not allow for further funding allocation to other towns and villages throughout the new District Council area. She further advised that Officers intended to meet with the groups to discuss the funding and to review options for the future. She also clarified that it was decided to host the events at the Guildhall Square as this proved a great success in terms of encouraging footfall into the city centre in previous years.

The Committee

Recommended that Council approve programming and financial arrangements as outlined within the report.

BC115/19 Future Delivery of Off-Street Car Park Enforcement and Penalty Charge Notice Processing

The Head of Business presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek approval for Members to extend the existing Agency Agreement with the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) for the provision of the Off-Street Car Park Enforcement and Penalty Charge Notice Processing services for a further period of 3 years from 1 November 2019 until 31 October 2022.

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Councillor Logue welcomed the report. She referred to the key issue in relation to market testing to ensure Value for Money as outlined within the report and sought further clarification in that regard. She also alluded to the increased problem of car parking in residential areas throughout the City and queried if Council had any power to request the issue to be addressed by the relevant authority.

Councillor Farrell asked for clarification on the following queries:

 Indication of income from PCN’s  Access to William Street Carpark after hours  Management arrangements of the electric car charge points located within the carparks  Consider opening up the underground carpark at Ebrington site during the busy Christmas period.

The Head of Business clarified for the previous speakers that generally when an event is taking place they would be notified to extend the opening hours of the carparks. In terms of management of the electric car charging points this was the responsibility of a private sector company, ESB Group. He further clarified that in terms of income derived from PCN’s he did not have the figure at hand, however it was the intention to provide a report to Committee once the Off-Street Car Parking Strategy was completed and this would contain information on the location of carparks, current capacity and pricing model applied.

The Committee

Recommended that Council agree to extending the existing Agency Agreement with the DfI for the provision of the above services for a further period of 3 years from 1 November 2019 until 31 October 2022.

BC116/19 Creative Incubation Hub Pilot Programme (January 2020-August 2022)

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members about the establishment of a creative incubation hub and support programme in the Old Fire Station premises on

Page 128 11

Hawkin Street. This project will be delivered in partnership with the Ulster University and Urban Villages.

Councillor Cooper welcomed the report. He commented that a lot of good work had been achieved amongst the local communities and he was encouraged to note that subject to funding approval that a pilot programme would commence shortly and he hoped that the community organisations would make their facilities available.

Councillor McLaughlin welcomed the report. She said that she had no difficulty in supporting the creation of the incubation hub for the project, however highlighted the closure of Eighty81 office space at Ebrington and queried why this venue was not considered as a location for the catalyst programme.

The Head of Culture advised that the project was specific to new graduates and would complement the activity at Eighty81 building and the expectation would be that these graduate businesses would naturally migrate from Hawkin Street to Eighty81 building and other locations as they developed.

The Committee

Recommended that Council notes the establishment of a creative incubation hub and support programme in the Old Fire Station premises on Hawkin Street and the scheduling of monthly clinics featuring relevant arts and culture sector regional support organisations.

BC117/19 Food Tourism Update

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the delivery of the Local Food and Drink Strategy 2019-2025.

The Head of Culture in response to Councillor Kelly who welcomed the report, clarified that the wider City and District would be included in the concept of the LegenDerry Food Brand.

Page 129 12

The Committee

Recommended that Council agrees for Officers to proceed with procurement of a ‘Marketing & PR’ Programme to support with the launch of the LegenDerry Food Brand and online platform to the value of £25,000.00.

BC118 /19 Hire Charges for the Alley Arts Theatre and Strabane Community Library & Alley Programme Autumn 2019 Update

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to secure Member approval for an increase in charges for the Alley Arts Theatre and Conference Centre (The Alley) and an adjustment of charges for room hire in Strabane Community Library to be applied to all bookings from April 2020. To inform Members of the upcoming programme within the Alley for the Autumn/Winter 2019 season.

The Committee

Recommended that Council notes the content of the above report and programming arrangements and to approve the increase in charges for the Alley Arts and Conference Centre and the adjustment of charges for room hire in Strabane Community Library.

BC119/19 St Patrick’s Day/Spring Carnival 2020

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to highlight plans for the development of the 2020 St Patricks Day celebrations and to present recommendations as outlined within the report.

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Alderman Devenney expressed concern that not all citizens from the community had been consulted with and it was felt that the exclusion of the protestant community was intentional. He also referred to the backlash due to the display of flags by the protestant community over the summer period of celebrations despite no issue when flags are displayed by the catholic community prior to the St Patrick’s Day event. He said that conditions needed to improve in terms of inclusion for both sides of the community. . The Head of Culture in response to the previous speaker advised that the activity of the Carnival parade was open for all citizens to participate and that was the ethos of the North West Carnival initiative and in particular to deliver the parade in partnership with Council.

Councillor R Barr welcomed the report and supported inclusion of all citizens throughout the City and District. He referred to the St Patrick’s Day parade route in Strabane and confirmed that he agreed with the proposal for the parade to be reverted back to the previous route so to incorporate the participation of the residents in the Care Homes on the Melmount Road. Councillor J Barr seconded the proposal.

Councillor J Barr also proposed that there be no applications made for a Grand Marshall in honour of the late Mr Pat Gillespie who sadly passed away recently.

The Committee

Recommended that Council i) approve programming and financial arrangements as outlined within the report. ii) agree for the St Patrick’s Day parade route in Strabane to be reverted back to the previous route. iii) and for no applications for a Grand Marshall to be made in honour of the late Mr Pat Gillespie who passed away recently.

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BC120/19 ‘Stitch in Time’ and ‘Celebrate’ Public Artwork

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Member approval on the future of the Stitch in Time public artwork and for the adoption of the artwork entitled ‘Celebrate’ by artist Maurice Harron currently in the ownership of Creggan Enterprise Limited.

Councillor Cooper welcomed the report and agreed that the structural failure of the artwork needed to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

Councillor McCann expressed the view that the artwork lacked imagination and he did not see the point of the feature on a building that was closed down and he would also question the alternative location.

Alderman McClintock commented that she was of the opinion that the artwork was displayed in a prime location to be viewed from all over the City and it would be difficult to find an alternative site that would offer a similar viewpoint.

Discussion ensued after which the Committee:

Recommended that Council i) agree the decommissioning of the stitch in time artwork from the Rosemount Factory site subject to further consultation with the decommissioning company and the artist. ii) adopts the artwork entitled ‘Celebrate’ and undertake to complete any required ongoing maintenance requirements.

Aldermen McClintock and Devenny and Councillor R Barr left the meeting at this stage and did not return.

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BC121/19 Visit Derry Service Level Agreement

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to provide an update to Members on the amendment of the annual Service Level Agreement (SLA) arrangement to be adopted with Visit Derry.

The Committee

Recommended that Council formally adopts the updated SLA arrangement between Council and Visit Derry.

BC122/19 International Celebration of Persons with Disabilities

The Head of Culture presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Member approval for the proposed programme to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities being delivered under the Access and Inclusion project.

The Committee

Recommended that Council approves the proposed programme to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities being delivered under the Access and Inclusion project.

Open for Information

BC123/19 Business Boost Update

The Head of Business provided a progress update report on Business Boost up to August 2019.

Members noted the report for information.

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BC124/19 PEACE IV Update

The Head of Business provided an update on the implementation of the DCSD Council PEACE IV Programme .

Members noted the above report for information and if further information was required on the PEACE IV programme that they sign up via the webpage for monthly e-newsletters.

BC125/19 ESF Match Funded Projects Year 2 Quarter 1 Report

The Head of Business presented the above report for information to Members. The report provided an update on year 2 quarter 1 (April 2019 – June 2019) on five ESF projects; match funded by Council to deliver services to those who were unemployed/economically inactive.

Members noted for information the above report.

BC126/19 Museum & Visitor Services Compliments

The Head of Culture presented the above report for information to Members. The purpose of the report was to provide detail on the positive feedback received from outside organisations and individuals on their events and visits to the Guildhall and Tower Museum since 2014.

The Members noted for information the above report.

BC127/19 Update on Natural Connections: Peace Tourism Project

The Head of Culture presented the above report for information. The purpose of the report was to provide an update to Members on the project activity of the PEACE IV Natural Connections: Peace Tourism funded project being delivered by the Tourism Development Department.

The Members noted the above report for information.

The meeting went into confidential business.

Page 134 Agenda Item 8e

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Minutes of Meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee (Open) held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall on Wednesday, 11 September, 2019 at 4.00 pm ______

Present:- Members of Committee - Councillor Tierney (in the Chair), Aldermen Devenney, Burke, Dobbins, Duffy, Durkan, Ferguson, Hunter, Jackson, McCann and McHugh.

Non-Members of Committee – Councillors Guy and McKane.

In Attendance:- Director of Environment and Regeneration (Mrs K Phillips), Head of Capital Development and Building Control (Mr F Morrison), Regeneration Manager (Mr T Monaghan) and Committee Services Assistant (Ms N Meehan).

______

ER158/19 Notice and Summons for Meeting

The Director of Environment and Regeneration read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.

ER159/19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Director of Environment and Regeneration completed the roll call and apologies were recorded from Aldermen McCready and Ramsey.

ER160/19 Declarations of Members’ Interests

Councillors Ferguson and Hunter declared an interest in item 11 – APSE Energy Membership.

Councillors Tierney and Duffy declared an interest in item 27 – A2 Buncrana Road Scheme; and item 29 – Ballyarnett Country Park – Outer North Neighbourhood Partnership.

Councillors Burke, McCann and Tierney declared an interest in item 34 – Award of Tender – Street Cleansing Waste.

Page 135 ER161/19 Deputation – To receive Mr M Graham – Co-Ownership – to Present the Roles and Functions of the Co-Ownership Scheme

The Committee received Mr M Graham, Co-Ownership and Affordable Housing, to the Meeting. He gave a power-point presentation on the roles and functions of the Scheme highlighting the following:

About Us

- Formed in 1978 as a Registered Housing Association - Regulated and part funded by the Department for Communities - Charity registered by the Northern Ireland Charities Commission - Helped 28,000 households into home ownership - Over 8,000 homes co-owned - 1,015 joined the Scheme in 2018

Home Ownership and Millennials

Presented graph showing variations in the percentage of families owning their home in Northern Ireland since 1984

Housing Options

Social Housing Private Rented Shared Ownership Home Ownership

Affordability

Renting Co-Own Rent to Own Buying

The Customer Journey

Applicant ------Leaseholder ------Home Owner

Co-Ownership Customers Age Profile

<22 23-27 28-32 33-37 38-42 43-47 >48

Page 136 Household Composition

39% Single Persons 22% Couples 29% Couples with Children 9% Single Parents

Previous Homes

Social Housing Tenant - 1%

Living with Friends/Family – 50%

Rending from a Private Landlord – 49%

Impact of Co-Ownership

Impact on the Northern Ireland Housing Market 2018/19

Value of Properties Purchase - £128M 41% New Build 10% of First Time Buyer Market

Co-Ownership Purchases Across Northern Ireland

Property Locations Derry and Strabane Council 2018

Derry and Strabane Figures

- At the end of December 2018, there were a total of 364 Co- Ownership homes in Derry City and Strabane Council - Over the last 5 years, 101 households purchased a home through Co-Ownership in the Derry City and Strabane Council area - During 2018, the average purchase price was £133,741

Rent to Own

Who Property Rent Buy Funding

Page 137 Shared Ownership for Over 55s

>55 – Shared Ownership without a Mortgage

Affordable Housing Definition

Social Housing Affordable Housing Intermediate Housing

Local Development Plans and Affordable Housing

Access to Land Capture of Planning Gain Sustainable Communities

Members thanked Mr Graham for his presentation and commended him on the content. Members then raised the following points:

- Referred to the current housing crisis facing society with increasing numbers on housing waiting lists and homelessness being at its highest rate ever. - Referred to recent reports suggesting that it would take 22.5 years to provide sufficient housing to address the problem. - Welcomed the variation in housing availability. - Suggested that co-ownership was a viable way of getting onto the property ladder. - Referred to the considerably lower percentage of people participating in co-ownership in the Derry and Strabane Council area compared to other areas and enquired if this could be due to a lack of awareness. - Reiterated concerns regarding the regional imbalance. - In terms of the percentage share, enquired if a smaller share option was available and if there was flexibility should a change of circumstances arise. - Enquired as to what action could be taken to encourage greater participation in the scheme within this Council area.

Whilst being unable to provide a reason for the low uptake within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area, Mr Graham suggested that this could be mainly due to a lack of awareness. He stated that efforts had been made to arrange discussions between potential customers and Financial Advisors, Estate Agents and Banks to provide

Page 138 necessary information. He referred to the possibility of undertaking further initiatives to encourage greater participation in the Scheme, particularly in regards to this Council area. Whilst acknowledging a decline in the housing market in recent years, considered that this had now improved.

Mr Graham explained that the Department for Communities had agreed on a percentage share of 50% as it was felt anything lower would not attract greater numbers of customers as it would result in a mortgage rate which would not be considered worthwhile.

In response to a query from Councillor Durkan, Mr Graham confirmed that information events had taken place in the North West in partnership with local Banks. However, he undertook to consider arranging further events.

Open for Decision

ER162/19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 10 July 2019

The Open Minutes of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 10 July 2019 (ER126/19-ER149/19) were confirmed and signed by the Chairperson as correct.

Matters Arising From Minutes

ER163/19 Muff Glen Footbridge (Ref ER134/19)

In response to a query from Councillor Durkan, the Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that following the July Meeting of the Committee a letter had been sent to the Permanent Secretary regarding the matter. She stated that a response had been received suggesting that Council Officials meet with senior officials from DAERA to consider a possible partnership working arrangement. She advised that the meetings would be arranged following which a further report would be presented to Committee on the outcome thereof. She pointed out that partnership agreements did exist in other areas of Council. However, it would be necessary to consider all of the issues involved and what the Department would be offering by way of a partnership and if Council was agreeable.

Page 139 ER164/19 Deputation – To receive Mr J Wright (Head of Regulations) and Mr K Wells (Team Manager), North West Regulations Team NIEA to give a Presentation on Anaerobic Digesters (Ref ER133/19)

In response to a query from Councillor McCann, the Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that she had spoken to Keith Wells Team Manager, NIEA who had confirmed that he was willing to attend a meeting to discuss Anaerobic Digesters pending the receipt of questions from Councillor McCann.

Councillor McCann undertook to submit the questions to the Director of Environment and Regeneration following the Meeting.

ER165/19 Strathfoyle Greenway (Ref ER149/19)

In response to a query from Councillor Ferguson regarding an update in regards to Strathfoyle Greenway, the Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that correspondence had been sent to the Permanent Secretary of DAERA/DfI/DfC and DoF as requested and a response had been received from DoF advising that this had been referred to DfI. She further advised that officers had submitted a Business Case for the project to DfI in respect of their Greenway Programme. She advised that meetings would be arranged with DAERA, DfI and DfC officials to discuss the matter and she undertook to advise Members when such arrangements had been made.

Councillor McCann enquired if there was any explanation for the delay regarding the Strathfoyle Greenway. He pointed out that Planning permission had been granted five years previously and this was one of the most necessary Greenways throughout the Council area which would have a huge impact on the local community.

Councillor McCann urged caution in regards to the use of old railway lines for Greenways referring to considerable controversy surrounding this issue. He stated that if a former railway line was used for the purposes of developing a Greenway, the chances of any future operations as a railway line were immediately reduced.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration assured that Strathfoyle Greenway was a matter of high priority for Council and Officers had been progressing with this development and that the purchase of lands had not always proved straightforward. She stated that it had been possible to progress on a number of issues and proposals would be

Page 140 brought forward to the Capital Working Group in order to recommend proceeding with the purchase of lands. She referred to the significant cost involved in developing a Greenway with Council often seeking central government involvement in order to do so which was the case in this instance.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration pointed out that DfI had a Greenways Funding Programme in respect of which it was felt that Strathfoyle Greenway would be ideal. She stated that a Business Case had been prepared and submitted to the Department in this regard. She referred to the considerable time involved in regards to Greenway development particularly in terms of funding and land acquisition. She welcomed the fact that funding may be available through the Department’s Greenway Programme and it had been possible to progress land ownership and Planning permission and she anticipated that the development could progress in the near future. She referred to the North West Greenway Plan which had been adopted by the former Derry City Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council and the North West Regional Development Group had set aside funding for a development of a number of these projects. She stated that 90 km of Greenways had already been developed in the district with 50 km currently under construction. She stated that officers were progressing with further detailed feasibility in respect of a number of further potential greenways and that Council was mindful of the issue in regards to the preservation of former railway lines which would be considered in terms of network development. She stated that this Council area was much further ahead compared to other Council areas.

ER166/19 Castlederg – Green Infrastructure Masterplan (Ref ER135/19)

In response to a query from Alderman McKane, the Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that the Masterplan was issued to stakeholders and a village renewal proposal which was being progressed by the Design Team. She undertook to update Members on progress in due course.

ER167/19 Update – Park Pedestrian Bridge (ER148/19)

Alderman Devenney sought an update in regards to the Bridge at Park and referred to the possibility of forming a joint venture similar to that being considered in respect of Muff Glen.

Page 141 The Head of Capital Development and Building Control explained that a consultant was currently working on this site who was carrying out a Feasibility Study and cost analysis. When completed these would be considered together with the cost factors and possible options regarding funding or co-funding the project.

ER168/19 Street Naming and Property Numbering – Request for Development Name

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to gain Members’ consent to name new developments at Melmount Road, Strabane, Lismore Place, Sion Mills and Skeoge Link Road, Londonderry.

Councillor Dobbins welcomed the local School’s competition in regards to the naming of Mill Court and suggested that similar initiatives be used in respect of the naming of other developments in the future.

Subsequently, the Committee

Recommended (a) that approval be granted for the adoption of the name (i) Old School Court for the housing development at Melmount Road, Strabane (ii) Old Mill Court for the housing development at Lismore Place, Sion Mills and Beraghvale, Beraghvale Crescent and Beraghvale Park for the housing development at Skeoge Link, Galliagh, Londonderry.

(b) that local School’s competitions be organised in regards to the naming of housing developments throughout the Council area in the future.

ER169/19 Street Naming and Property Numbering – Requests for Installation of Bi-lingual Signage

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of the

Page 142 outcome of recent applications to provide bilingual signage at Carrick Strand, Strabane, The Branch and Thornhill Park.

In response to concerns expressed by the Chairperson regarding a survey carried out in Thornhill Park wherein differing views were expressed within one household, the Director of Environment and Regeneration assured that the survey allowed for differing views to be expressed by the residents of one property. There were therefore a different number of responses received from each individual household to facilitate multiple responses.

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control advised that the report reflected that the number of responses received was greater than the number of properties surveyed.

The Committee

Recommended that given the outcome of the four plebiscites, approval be granted for the erection of bilingual street signage at Carrick Strand, Strabane, The Branch and Thornhill Park, Derry.

ER170/19 Action Renewables Association

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He pointed out that the purpose of the report was to seek approval to renew Council’s membership of Action Renewables Energy Association (AREA).

The Committee

Recommended that approval be granted to renew membership of the Action Renewables Energy Association (AREA) as a Partner Member for an annual fee of £1,000 excluding VAT.

ER171/19 APSE Energy Membership

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She

Page 143 advised that the purpose of the report was to seek approval to renew membership of APSE’s Energy Association.

The Committee

Recommended that approval be granted to renewing membership of the APSE Energy Association at a fee of £2,000 excluding VAT.

ER172/19 Correspondence Received – Children’s Funeral Fund

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to advise and seek Members’ comments with regard to correspondence received from Carolyn Harris MP with regard to a Children’s Funeral Fund for Northern Ireland.

Councillor Dobbins welcomed the sentiments expressed in Ms Harris’ correspondence and suggested that Council express their support for the proposal. She enquired as to the definition of child.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration said she understood that child referred to a young person up to 18 years old. She explained that the fund would cover funeral and associated costs which Council had agreed to waive but not the cost of repatriation.

Councillor Ferguson expressed her wholehearted support for the proposal pointing out that this was a small gesture at such a traumatic time for those involved. She also suggested that Council write to the Permanent Secretary expressing its support for the proposal.

In response to a query from Councillor Jackson, the Director of Environment and Regeneration explained that she understood the recommendation was to write to the Permanent Secretary in the Department for Communities and the Secretary of State petitioning to have a similar scheme brought forward for Northern Ireland. She suggested that copies of this correspondence are forward to Carolyn Harris MP advising her of Council’s support.

Following some discussion the Committee

Page 144 Recommended that (i) Council write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Communities and the Secretary of State requesting that they bring forward a similar scheme as the Children’s Funeral Fund for Northern Ireland; (ii) that Carolyn Harris MP be advised of Council’s support for her proposal.

ER173/19 Derry City Centre – Proposed Design of Revitalisation Streetscape Enhancement Scheme

The Regeneration Manager presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members in relation to the proposed development of a Revitalisation Streetscape Enhancement Scheme for Spencer Road and Carlisle Road areas and to seek authority to proceed with securing external funding for the design and capital delivery phases.

Councillor Jackson welcomed the report. He stated that this was a much anticipated scheme for the Spencer Road area. He pointed out that he was in regular contact with traders from the area who acknowledged the success of the previous scheme. He looked forward to receiving a further detailed report on the progress of the scheme and stated that he had been engaging with City Centre Initiative in relation to the scheme and the much needed regeneration of the area in question. He pointed out that he had been contacted by traders from the area located in Chapel Road who were concerned that the scheme would not extend to their area.

The Regeneration Manager explained that the scheme would incorporate the bottom of Chapel Road and Dungiven Road as there were properties included in the area which required upgrading. He confirmed that the scheme would extend from Craigavon Bridge up to Dungiven Road.

Alderman Devenney also welcomed the scheme acknowledging the number of derelict buildings contained in this area. He also welcomed the refurbishment works carried out at Abercorn Road and Strabane town centre.

Page 145 The Chairperson said he understood the works referred to by the previous speaker were all nearing completion.

The Regeneration Manager advised that the Abercorn Road scheme was at the final stage with only a few remaining commercial properties awaiting completion. He pointed out that this scheme had been funded through the Urban Villages Initiative. He stated that the Strabane project was currently at design stage and work had taken place with traders in Butcher Street together with the appointment of an Architect and work would progress towards securing funding for the capital investment stage.

Members welcomed all of the schemes being carried out and acknowledged the impact on the surrounding area.

The Committee

Recommended that Members approve the ongoing development of funding applications for the development of Revitalisation schemes to Spencer Road and Carlisle Road and for Officers to undertake the necessary procurement of a design team and contractor for the respective phases – subject to receipt of external funding.

ER174/19 Green Infrastructure Plan Public Consultation Report

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to present Members with the updated Derry and Strabane Green Infrastructure (GI) Plan 2019-2032, following the public consultation process and the associated GI Public Consultation Report.

Councillor Duffy welcomed the report. She stated that the Green Infrastructure Plan was very impressive and acknowledged the considerable work involved of which Council should be proud. She referred to the economic benefits this could bring for the entire Council area.

Councillor Duffy then referred to a piece of work in which she had been involved with Derry Bee Keepers’ Association. She stated that the

Page 146 Association had been organising events with local Schools regarding their anticipated goals. She also referred to a considerable amount of work which had been carried out in other areas in regards to making Northern Ireland a Bee Conservation Area.

Councillor Duffy suggested that in terms of the Green Infrastructure Plan Council review Planning policy to ensure that all plants used throughout the Council area were Bee friendly plants and incorporate this into the Green Infrastructure Plan. She also requested that the Lead Legal Services Officers undertake to ensure that the work currently being carried out with Christ Church in regard to the acquisition of land are progressed. She stated that the Bee Keepers’ Association had aspirations for a piece of land for educational purposes in terms of the preservation of Bees. However, issues regarding ownership of the land in question had yet to be resolved. She also referred to the role of urban Bee keepers and requested a report on the issue.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration suggested, with Members’ agreement, to invite representatives of the Bee Keepers’ Association to address a future Meeting of Committee.

The Parks Development Manager referred to the importance of Bees for the environment and referred to lengthy discussions which had taken place with the Bee Keepers’ Association. He referred to a number of events organised by the Association who were very active and currently endeavouring to create a Bee Keeping facility at Brooke Park. He continued that in terms of strategic planning Council were very excited and specific in regards to the Green Infrastructure Plan and in particular the Pollenating strategy and how to care for Bees. He stated that in relation to land acquisition, work was ongoing with Christ Church. It was hoped that this would be expedited in the near future.

In response to a query from Alderman Guy regarding the provision of a Dog Run, the Parks Development Manager pointed out that his team were working pro-actively with Officers from Council’s Environmental Health Section who were considering the implementation of the Dog Control Orders which provided legislation regarding the management of dogs on Council sites. He pointed out that there was a Greyhound Dog Run in Ballyarnett specifically for Greyhounds.

In regards to the provision of allotments, the Parks Development Manager advised that there were currently 32 leased allotment sites in

Page 147 St Columb’s Park. He stated that work was ongoing with St Columb’s Park House in terms of the provision of growing spaces within the area.

In response to a further query from Alderman Guy, the Parks Development Manager referred to a recent request received that Council consider Kilfennan Valley Park as a possible site for the provision of a Dog Run. Following consideration thereof specific issues arose which might present problems for dogs and dog owners. He stated that Council had a considerable amount of green infrastructure where people felt confident to bring their dogs and remove their leads and allow them to roam.

Councillor Dobbins referred to the growing problem of dog fouling throughout the Council area referring particularly to Culmore Country Park where this was presenting a major problem. She said this problem was due to a lack of supervision and irresponsible dog owners. She requested that Officers were mindful of the fact that when a dog’s lead was removed responsibility was diminished. She acknowledged that there were designated areas where dogs were allowed to roam freely off their leads presenting no problem to the public and where the owner maintained control.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that Council’s Environmental Health Section were currently considering a Dog Control Strategy and the legislation in regards to Dog Control and she undertook to engage with relevant Officers from that Section to determine the current position in relation thereto. She said she understood this was being considered in conjunction with the parks and open spaces within the Council area. She undertook to request that a report updating Members on this matter be presented to a future Meeting of the Health and Community Committee.

Councillor Durkan enquired if a Pollenating Plan had been adopted by Council in regards to the protection of the native Black Bee. She referred to the need to review Council’s existing policy in regards to the use of pesticides by Council and its mowing patterns.

Councillor Durkan anticipated that the Northern Ireland Pollenating Plan could be adopted within the Green Infrastructure Plan and referred to the need to determine what this involved, the chemicals required, its cost effectiveness and benefits to nature.

Page 148 The Director of Environment and Regeneration advised that Council had started to implement a number of pieces of work informally without an agreed policy. She stated that all of these initiatives were moving towards encouraging bio-diversity and pollination and would in due course be formalised as Corporate Polices.

Alderman Devenney acknowledged the growing problem with dog fouling in recent years and the various strategies which had been considered to address the problem which had proved ineffective and suggested issuing fines which he believed would prove more effective deterrent.

The Chairperson reminded Members that the issue of dog fouling was within the remit of Health and Community Department.

The Committee

Recommended (a) that Members approve the updated Green Infrastructure Plan 2019-2032 following the public consultation and the Green Infrastructure Plan Consultation Report; and

(b) that this Council endorses the aspirations of the Bee Keepers’ Association to make this Council area a conservation area for the native Black Bee.

ER175/19 Nominations to Member Working Group on Graffiti

Following some discussion the Committee

Recommended that Aldermen Guy and McCready and Councillors Cusack, Ferguson, Logue and McCann be nominated to sit on the Graffiti Working Group.

Page 149 ER176/19 Maintenance of Trees – Marlborough Street

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Council authority to adopt the avenue of trees on Marlborough Street as part of Council Tree Management System.

Councillor Burke welcomed the report and given Council’s Climate Policy referred to the need for all necessary action to be taken to ensure the preservation of trees.

The Committee

Recommended that Council adopt the avenue of trees along Marlborough Street as part of their Tree Management System.

ER177/19 Natural Capital Account

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members approval to create a Natural Capital Account (NCA) for Council owned green and blue spaces. This is an action from the Green Infrastructure (GI) Plan 2019- 2032, which will assist Council to place a value on and to manage its green and blue spaces.

The Committee

Recommended that Members support the creation of a Natural Capital Account for Council owned green and blue spaces.

ER178/19 Audit of our Rural Heritage in the Sperrins and Faughan District Electoral Area

The Regeneration Manager presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to seek approval from Members to procure external consultants to carry out an audit of rural heritage in both the Sperrins and Faughan DEA’s. The audits will encompass the built, natural and cultural heritage assets and will identify the opportunities to

Page 150 sustainably develop and enhance our rural heritage. This is a pilot programme with the view delivering similar audits across the remaining DEA’s.

Various Members welcomed the report and the proposed Audit and acknowledged how this would maximise the potential of the rural area.

The Committee

Recommended that Members approve the request to commit a sum of £8,000 from the joint Derry City and Strabane District Council/Historic Environment Division budget to procure consultants to carry out the audits as part of this initial pilot initiative.

ER178/19 SMART Grid Ireland

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to seek approval to join SMART Grid Ireland Industry Collaborative Network.

The Committee

Recommended that approval be granted to joining the SMART Grid Ireland Industry Collaborative Network for a General Membership fee of £5,000 excluding VAT.

ER179/19 SONI – North South Interconnector Project

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members on correspondence received from SONI in relation to the North South Interconnector Project.

Councillor Jackson acknowledged Council’s support for the North South Interconnector Project. He referred to the impact of decarbonisation in terms of assisting climate change. He said it was

Page 151 Sinn Fein’s opinion that an all-Ireland electricity network would protect electricity supplies, particularly with the potential of Brexit. He referred to a number of consultation events highlighted by SONI and suggested that Council write to the Department for Infrastructure expressing Council’s support for these events and requesting that they place significant importance on the views and needs of those people living in the area surrounding the proposed interconnector.

Subsequently the Committee

Recommended that Council write to DfI requesting that they place significant weight on the views of residents living in the vicinity of the Interconnector.

Open for Information

ER180/19 Building Control Applications

The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to advise Members of applications processed under Building Regulations (NI) between 1 June 2019 and 31 July 2019.

Members noted the content of the report.

ER181/19 Update on the Implementation of the Circular Economy

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members with regard to actions taken to support the implementation of Council’s Circular Economy/Zero Waste Strategy.

Members noted the content of the report.

ER182/19 Climate Change Update

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members on progress with regard to activities across Council to address climate change.

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Councillor McCann Proposed, Councillor Durkan Seconded and the Committee

Recommended that (a) Council notes that the Trades Union Council at its annual Conference in Brighton this week declared support for the school students’ strike set for September 20th demanding drastic action to slash CO2 emissions and thereby help save the planet from climate breakdown;

(b) Council welcomes the initiative of school students in the Council area to organise local action as part of this wider mobilisation;

(d) Council encourages Council workers and other workers in Derry City and Strabane to take part in the September 20th action; and

(e) Council notes that the TUC has called for a half hour stoppage or meetings at lunchtime on the 20th or any stronger action which students or workers democratically agree on.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration pointed out whilst an earlier Notice of Motion passed by Council referred to proposed Strike action on September 20, Councillor McCann’s proposal provided greater clarity on the matter.

In response to a request from Councillor Durkan, the Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that as Members were aware all Committee recommendations must be ratified at the Monthly Council Meeting. However, the September Council Meeting would take place following the proposed day of strike action. She said it would be

Page 153 possible for management to advise staff of the events that were taking place in the district in respect of climate change on 20 September.

Councillor Burke welcomed the progress which had been made by Council following the initial meeting of the Climate Working Group which she considered most informative.

ER183/19 Proposed Provision of Disabled Parking Bays Across the District

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She pointed out that the purpose of the report was to advise Members of correspondence received in June and July 2019 from DfI Network Development Section regarding proposed disabled parking bays across the district.

Councillor Dobbins enquired if it would be possible to contact the relevant Department with regard to the possible introduction of heftier penalties in respect of unlawful parking in disabled parking bays. She stated that in the Republic of Ireland such offences resulted in a fine together with penalty points against the offender.

It was agreed that such a request to the Department be deferred until the Department present their Autumn/Winter Statement to Committee.

ER184/19 Play Plan Update

The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to present Members with an update of the development of the Play Plan 2020-2032 and receive a presentation from Alan Herron, Director of Service Delivery and Development, Playboard.

Mr Herron gave a power-point presentation addressing the following areas:

Agenda

1. Why Play?

2. Play Plan Development Process

Page 154 3. Policy Context

4. Play Value Audit

Ballyarnett Country Park Rossdowney

5. Next Steps

Members thanked Mr Herron for his detailed presentation and then made the following points:

- Welcomed the approach being adopted by Council in regards to play provision. - Referred to the number of areas which did not have any play provision. - Acknowledged the importance of play for both young and older children and the need for the provision of inclusive facilities which cater for the needs of both. - Referred to concerns regarding the presence of large groups of teenagers at children’s play facilities. - Referred to the need to encourage play for older children. - Welcomed the approach being adopted in terms of the consultation with local communities, residents and elected representatives to obtain the widest sample of views of what is required which was key to making the correct decision in terms of play provision. - Enquired as to what steps were being taken in regards to inclusive play provision for children with disabilities. - Welcomed the excellent work which had been carried out in regards to the delivery of play provision throughout the Council area. - Referred to the numerous outdated play facilities which required updating. - Expressed concern that the findings obtained by a public survey may not provide a wide representation of views. - Pointed out that in areas of high deprivation residents would welcome the opportunity to express their views through a public survey. - Welcomed the proposed consultation within the DEAs which would provide the public with an opportunity to voice their opinions on play requirements for their particular area. - Expressed concern at the lack of specific play provision in the rural area and referred to the possibility of providing one play park for a specific DEA rural area.

Page 155 - Referred to a possible health and safety issue in Council play facilities which had become outdated and ill-maintained. - Enquired if there was a procedure through which such facilities were deemed unfit for purpose. - Expressed concern that in many of the areas where there was currently no play provision, Council did not own land making it difficult to address the problem. - Referred to the need to consider the viability of purchasing land in respect of play provision. - Referred to concerns expressed by the residents of Prehen and Victoria Road regarding the lack of play provision in that area. - Expressed concern at the number of new private housing developments which had no play provision. - Enquired if the Board would be assessing future development proposals in terms of play provision and if these would be included in the overall Play Strategy. - Would assessment be carried out in respect of an entire area of a specific development? - Referred to a previous Residential Policy within which it was agreed that Council would accept responsibility for the management of all private play provision. - Expressed concern at the number of planning applications submitted in respect of private developments with no play provision. - Referred to the possibility of introducing a policy regarding the management of private play facilities by Council in conjunction with Planning Service.

Mr Herron responded as follows:

- Explained that one of the Board’s key objectives was to provide Council with recommendations in regards to play provision. - Referred to the need for all Council play areas to integrate key elements. - One of the Boards’ key recommendations would be that all facilities provide opportunities for children with a disability eg ground level roundabouts, wheel chair accessibility and ground level trampolines. - Pointed out that the play industry had caught up with the need for play provision to cater for those with a disability. - In regards to the maintenance of sites, pointed out that the Board carried out annual inspections which were considered as part of its Play Park Assessment. Safety checks were also carried out and any defective equipment was removed.

Page 156 - Referred to a significant cost element in regards to the provision of inclusive play facilities which could not be overlooked and the subsequent cost implications for Council. - Acknowledged that there was a significant problem in terms of a lack of land, the potential implications of which would be addressed within the report. If land could not be identified for the purpose of play provision it might be necessary to consider a joint development or the transfer of land from other agencies. - Pointed out that the Board would examine the role of private housing developers in regards to play provision and referred to a stipulation within Planning policy which was not being adhered to in relation thereto. - Advised that during the consultation process there would be an opportunity for Council and community groups to contact the Board directly regarding specific areas. - Pointed out that the Board would provide a clear strategic direction for Council to move forward in terms of play provision. - The Board was currently reviewing 83 sites on Council ownership. - Private development plans including play provision could be reviewed by the Board to ensure they reflected the needs of the area. - Pointed out that anyone providing play provision should engage with the local community to identify the needs of the area. - Acknowledged the likelihood of Council accepting responsibility for the management of private play facilities.

The Director of Environment and Regeneration pointed out that all Council’s assets were regularly inspected to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Any areas of potential danger were addressed immediately. Whilst acknowledging that there was deterioration in some older play facilities she assured that these did not present a danger. She confirmed that all health and safety works were carried out under Council’s Property Maintenance Programme.

The Meeting then went into Confidential Business

Page 157 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 8f

Derry City and Strabane District Council

Minutes of Meeting of the Health and Community Committee held in the Guildhall, Derry on Thursday 12 September 2019 at 4.00 pm

Present:- Councillor Fleming (Chair); Aldermen Devenney and Guy; Councillors Burke, Farrell, Ferguson, Gallagher, Hunter, McHugh, Reilly and Tierney.

Non-members of Committee:- Alderman McClintock and McKane and Councillors Duffy, Harkin, Logue and McCann.

In Attendance:- ; Director of Health and Community (Mrs K McFarland), Head of Community Development and Leisure (Mr B O’Hagan), Head of Health and Community Wellbeing (Mr S Donaghy), PA to Director of Health and Community (Mrs L Shields) and Committee Services Assistant (Mrs T Johnstone).

HC142/19 Notice and Summons of Meeting

The Director of Health and Community read the Notice and Summons of the meeting.

HC143/19 Member Attendance and Apologies

The Director of Health and Community took the roll call and apologies were received from Alderman Warke, Councillors Donnelly and Mellon.

HC144/19 Declarations of Members' Interests

Councillor Duffy declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 4 – Deputation from UNISON on the Supporting People Campaign.  Agenda item 10- Member Appointments to Internal Bodies.  Agenda item 15 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19.

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Councillor Tierney declared non-pecuniary interests in the following agenda items:  Agenda item 10 – Member Appointments to Internal Bodies.  Agenda item 15- Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19.  Agenda item 20 – Response to the Department for Communities Consultation on the Design Guide for Travellers’ Sites in Northern Ireland.

Councillor Farrell declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 10 – Member Appointments to Internal Bodies.

Councillor McHugh declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 15 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19.

Alderman Devenney declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 15 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19.

Alderman McClintock declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 15 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19.  Agenda item 10 – Member Appointments to Internal Bodies.

Councillor Reilly declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 11 – Technical Design for Glenview Community Centre. Councillor Harkin declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 4 – Deputation from UNISON on the Supporting People Campaign.

Alderman McKane declared non-pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items:  Agenda item 4 – Deputation from UNISON on the Supporting People Campaign.

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Alderman Guy declared non- pecuniary interests in the following Agenda items.  Agenda item 15 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19. Alderman Guy then informed the Committee that Alderman McKane would be replacing him as a member of the Health and Community Committee as he would be a member of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee.

The Chair advised that the matter would be raised at full Council on 26 September 2019.

HC145/19 Deputation: To receive Mr Niall McCarroll, UNISON to provide Members with information on the Supporting People Campaign

The Chair invited Mr N McCarroll, UNISON to give a presentation on the Supporting People Campaign.

Mr McCarroll then gave a presentation as follows:

Supporting People Programme

Supporting People Programme aimed to provide housing support to help the most vulnerable people in the community who may need personal or medical care, live as independently as possible such as;

 Homeless people  People with a learning disability  People with mental health issues  Older people  Those at risk of domestic violence  Young people at risk  People with drug and alcohol use problems  Offenders or people with a risk of offending  Other vulnerable people.

Mr McCarroll described the work carried out within those client groups as complex, challenging and varied.

Service Providers within the Supporting People Programme

Over 1,000 people are employed through the Supporting People Programme across the Derry City and Strabane District Council area and included the following service providers;

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 Apex Housing Association  First Housing Aid and Support Services  Simon Community  Women’s Aid  Leonard Cheshire  Praxis  Choice Housing  Mencap  Action on Hearing Loss  Methodist Mission

Mr McCarroll stated that the Supporting People Programme was a significant employer throughout the City and District due to the geographical area and the number of employees required demonstrated how much this service was needed and how it contributed to supporting and stabilising at risk individuals and their families. He further stated that there were numerous social and economic challenges faced by the frontline workers due the range of specialist work needed to assist the vulnerable people within society.

Frontline Workers – Health, Safety and Wellbeing

 Nightshifts  Physical abuse  Verbal abuse  Staff burn out  Work/Life balance  Health and Safety in the workplace  Emotional impact  Mental health impact.

Mr McCarroll stated that the majority of employers did not offer a company sick pay policy which has had a significant financial impact on any worker who had to take time off work due to sickness with some having to use foodbanks due to the terms and conditions of employment being unacceptable. He further stated that UNISON had attended a recent conference where the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) reported that they expected workers in Supporting People Programme to receive a Band 3 pay grade at approximately £10.71 per hour. However, many employers were paying just above the minimum wage whilst managers and officers were paid at a higher grade. He expressed concern that the programme was classified as a grant scheme with no recommendations or regulations regarding how

Page 162 5 the funding should be used. He stressed the importance of this failure being addressed to enable workers to receive the correct payment with entitlement to sick pay, holiday and overtime pay. He stated that professional, dedicated frontline workers were leaving the sector which is having an effect on service provision and also failing the recommendations within the NIHE strategic review. He added that those who work within the Supporting People Programme are of the opinion that the services being provided were just propping up public services due to the continuing austerity by the Conservative Government.

Continuing he outlined that one major issue which needed to be addressed was how the WHSCT and the Probation Board were referring clients to projects within the Supporting People Programme, however they were not financially contributing to certain projects. He stated that the majority of employers within the programme were anti-trade union which was extremely concerning as fair working terms and conditions of employment were not being implemented.

Mr McCarroll then proposed that those employers and statutory bodies be invited to a future meeting so that these concerns could be addressed as the frontline workers within the Supporting People Programme had not experienced any protection, employment rights and the agreed rate of pay.

In conclusion, he referred to a statement from the United Nations (UN) that ‘workers have a right to just and favourable conditions at work through the international convenant on economic, social and cultural rights’. He stated that the frontline workers within the Supporting People Programme were not experiencing those protections or rights.

The Chair thanked Mr McCarroll For the very comprehensive and articulate presentation regarding issues of concern faced by workers. He then invited comments from Members.

Members then raised the following points:

- Thanked Mr McCarroll for his comprehensive presentation. - Paid tribute to the frontline workers on the challenging work undertaken by them to help the most vulnerable in society. - Expressed concern that the employees within the Supporting People Programme were employed under inequitable terms and conditions.

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- Stated that clauses must be included into employee contracts to include sick pay, holiday and overtime pay. - Asked that the Mayor receive a list of questions from UNISON in order to challenge those employers and statutory bodies who did not provide suitable terms and conditions. - Expressed concern regarding the meagre terms and conditions that frontline staff had to endure which reflected a lack of value towards a very valuable service. - Members had a duty to ask those service providers why there was a lack of value being put into the work being carried out by their employees. - Members emphasised that change must happen as this was a crisis situation that needed to be addressed urgently. - Enquired what impact welfare reform had on the services carried out and also the issue of holiday back pay which has affected many of the workers who had not received a pay increase for many years. - Referred to the lack of government and that the Civil Service will say that a minister has to be in place regarding introducing policies and social clauses into the terms and conditions of employment. - Expressed concern that some employers within the Supporting People Programme were ‘anti-union’. - Undertook to work to ensure that frontline workers received equitable and fair terms and conditions of employment.

In response, Mr McCarroll stated that in regard to government returning to Stormont, an opportunity for things to improve had arisen when Stormont was in place, however the Department for Communities (DfC) already had a ministerial review were they stated that they would consider the concerns raised by workers to that review. He described it as a crisis situation which could not wait until the Assembly was reinstated. He referred to those organisations described as ‘anti-union’ and stated that there were no safeguards in place to appropriately manage and allocate the funding apportioned.

Continuing, he stated that in terms of welfare reform, the system was introduced to help families come out of poverty and bring them into the workplace whilst also streamlining the benefits system. However, this was not the case and that £760m per annum had been removed from the economy in the North of Ireland through welfare reform. He described the system as totally unfair and an ideological attack on working class people and those who needed help and services such as those provided through the Supporting People Programme. He

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referred to reports that the tourist industry was ‘booming’ in Derry, however he stated that the working class people living there were having a very different experience due to welfare reform and low wages.

Mr McCarroll then referred to the issue of holiday back pay. He stated that this arose when the PSNI lodged the case against their employer as they were not receiving their overtime allowance as laid out in the working time directive. He stated that after this case, some employers did pay the allowance however some employers chose not to do so as it was not legally binding in Northern Ireland.

In conclusion he stated that the DfC advised that any referrals to the Supporting People Programme only required intense support for two to three months. He expressed concern that once the support was reduced, the funding was decreased. He stated that continuous funding and support was vital in order to help those people overcome issues such as addiction and trying to get them into employment.

He stated that he believed there was sufficient money in the sector to give employees a decent wage, however this money was not being distributed equally due to no proper terms and conditions being in place. He expressed concern that this was having a detrimental effect on the health and well-being of staff who were asked to provide a valuable service when they are themselves suffering from mental health issues due to unacceptable working conditions.

The Chair and Members thanked Mr McCarroll and extended their support to the workers within the programme and to those seated in the public gallery.

Councillors Harkin, Logue and McCann left the meeting.

Chairperson's Business

HC146/19 Owen Mor Care Centre

With the permission of the Chairperson, Councillor Tierney referred to a public meeting that was scheduled to be held that evening, organised by families of relatives at Owen Mor Care Centre. He outlined that Owen Mor had two facilities, one based on residential care for the elderly and the other for respite care for adults with learning difficulties or disabilities. He noted that the care centre had been closed on two occasions by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA)

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and that families had met with the management who informed them that there were no concerns regarding the respite facility. However, the respite facility has been closed and was an invaluable service for families who use it. He said that a young adult who was booked for one week respite care at Owen Mor, had to use a facility in Castledawson. He stated that the facility was some distance away and was an old people’s home, therefore the staff did not have the understanding or training to deal with a young adult with complex medical issues which subsequently caused distress to him and his family. He proposed that Council write to RQIA to establish if there were concerns regarding the respite facility and the nursing home. He also proposed to write to the WHSCT to find out what they are doing to identify a similar facility for young adults with learning disabilities within the Council district.

Councillor Duffy enquired if there was any way to expedite the RQIA inquiry and contact WHSCT regarding identifying a suitable alternative facility.

Alderman Devenney concurred with the sentiments expressed by the previous speakers and suggested that a delegation from Council meet with representatives from the Trust.

Councillor Tierney suggested that it may be useful to wait until the outcome of the public meeting and asked that the issue be raised at the Council meeting on 26 September 2019 if there was no resolution from the public meeting.

The Committee

Recommended That subject to the outcome of the public meeting, the issue be discussed at Council on 26 September 2019.

HC147/19 Briefing Session on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Trauma Informed Practice

The Director of Health and Community advised Members on a forthcoming Briefing Session on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Trauma Informed Practice on 1 October 2019 at Stormont. She advised that the invitation was open to Councillors and noted that they must register directly with the Health and Social Care Trust if they wished to attend. Approval for Member attendance was approved.

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HC148/19 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 11 July 2019

The open Minutes of the Meeting held on 11 July 2019 (HC113/19 – HC139/19) were confirmed and signed by the Chairperson as correct. On a matter of accuracy, Councillor Farrell stated that his attendance at the meeting was not recorded.

HC149/19 Matters Arising

There were no matters arising.

HC150/19 Unicef Child Friendly Cities and Communities

The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the Unicef Child Friendly Cities and Communities Programme and seek Members’ approval in respect of the updated financial contributions required to continue the programme and to request Member nominations to become Unicef Champions.

Councillor Reilly thanked the Head of Community Development and Leisure and endorsed the recommendations within the report. He referred to recommendation 5.2 and asked if there had been any guidance in relation to the number of elected members fitting the criteria for the recommendation.

In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that in the previous programme, one Elected Member represented Council adding that further training opportunities would be available to Members.

Alderman Devenney suggested that the Mayor be nominated as it was such an important role.

Councillor Reilly Proposed, Seconded by Alderman Devenney

That Members endorse the recommendations in 5.1 and 5.3, however, recommendation 5.2 ‘That Members approve identifying political representation to Unicef Child Friendly Cities and Communities (CFCC) be

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deferred to the Council meeting on 26 September 2019.

Councillor Burke endorsed the recommendations and welcomed that UNICEF UK’s Child Rights Framework to improve services for children and young people was adopted within Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan.

The Committee

Recommended That Members (i) note the contents of the report and approve the updated financial contributions required to continue the programme with a commitment for 1 year and reviewed on an annual basis subject to budgets; (ii) Identifying political representation be deferred until Council on 26 September and (iii) commit to championing a Child Rights based approach in the Derry and Strabane District and support the active involvement and participation of young people through a variety of participation method.

HC151/19 Update on the Naming of the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and Felix McCrossan Pitch at Melvin Sports Complex

The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval to proceed with the naming of the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and Felix McCrossan Pitch at Melvin Sports Complex and to request funds to complete the naming at both of the sites and seek Members’ approval for an Opening Event, to officially recognise the naming of the two facilities.

Councillor Gallagher welcomed the report and endorsed the recommendations therein.

Councillor Tierney welcomed the report and the inclusion of the Mark Farren Stand within the proposals. He emphasised the importance of the stand being included in the official opening ceremony of the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

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He then referred to the highly anticipated Phase 2 of the development work at the stadium once the application process to the Sub Stadia Soccer Fund opened and Minsters were in place at Stormont. He felt that it was important that Phase 2 commenced as soon as it was possible as there were issues that prevented the stadium from being a top class ground throughout Ireland. He noted that there was no shelter on the left hand side of the Mark Farren Stand and also no scoreboard which needed to be addressed. He asked if officers had any plans regarding progressing Phase 2 of the development and added that he wished to take the opportunity to wish Derry City Football Club and Manager Declan Devine the very best for the League Cup on Saturday 14 September.

In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that officers had recently met with officials from the Department for Communities (DfC) who received a tour of the Stadium. He stated that they had discussed the programme and the possible funding of Phase 2 and explained that the programme was designed in 2011, therefore a number of elements had changed since then. He stated that DfC had stated that although many sporting grounds had been promised funding, the allocation of which would now be based on need. He outlined that DfC would consider criteria such as how clubs improved the visitor experience, how Section 75 groups could become more involved and how sporting grounds worked with local clubs. He advised that DfC would be considering the Phase 2 programme over the next few months and if the Executive at Stormont was reinstated budget potential could be explored.

Continuing, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that work at the Mark Farren stand to provide shelter would be a major construction project. He advised that officers could consult with the Capital Projects team with regard to a semi-permanent structure, however it would be a significant capital ask.

Alderman McClintock stated that as a member of the naming working group, she welcomed that the project had come to this final stage. She concurred with the remarks made by Councillor Tierney that it was vital that all 3 developments were included in the branding.

Alderman Guy stated that the UUP endorsed the recommendation and was pleased that the Mark Farren stand would be included in the proposals.

Page 169 12

Councillor Ferguson stated that the facility would bring pride to people of the area and beyond.

Councillor Tierney stated that he appreciated there were funding plans in place once the application process to the Sub Stadia Soccer Fund opened. However, if the funding application process did not open, he queried if Officers had considered alternative funding options.

In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure outlined that full planning permission was granted for phase 2 with costings in the region of approximately £4m. However, that figure was reached when the construction market was more stable, therefore it is believed that those costs would rise. He advised that if the Sub Stadia Soccer Fund was unavailable Council would have to explore other sources of funding to complete Phase 2 and stated that there was currently no budget in place.

Councillor Gallagher suggested that the matter be discussed at the next meeting of the Pricing Policy and Leisure Working Group to consider other funding options.

The Committee

Recommended That Members (i) approve the renaming exercise at both the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and Felix McCrossan 3G pitch at Melvin Sports Centre; (ii) approve funds of approximately £30,000 to complete the branding exercise at both sites including the Mark Farren Stand in line with Council’s branding guidelines for Leisure and Sport and (iii) approve fund of £3,000 to allow officers to proceed in planning opening events to officially recognise the naming of the two facilities.

HC152/19 Member Appointments to Internal Bodies

The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ consideration of proposed changes to the Elected Member representation on the internal bodies within the Health and Community Directorate on the following basis:

Page 170 13

 Member representation to 15 Council owned community managed centres  No requirement for Member representation on independently governed non-Council owned community centres  There is no long Elected Member representation required for the previous Joint Committee with EANI.

Alderman McClintock stated that there should be Council representation on all Council owned community managed centres. She enquired why there was a disparity in the number of representatives for example, Lincoln Courts, one of the smaller centres had 5 Elected Members.

Councillor Farrell concurred that any Council owned community managed centre should have Council representation. He stated that whilst he agreed with the recommendations in the report, he proposed that in terms of councillor representation, it should be implemented on a DEA basis, therefore each Councillor in the respective DEA was automatically a member of that committee.

Alderman McClintock felt that the proposal was ‘overkill’ and added that if all DEA Elected Members were nominated to every community centre committee it would be impossible to attend them all. She suggested that Members who were engaged with a particular community group or centre should sit on that committee.

Councillor Duffy stated that it was her belief regarding Ballyarnett DEA that all representatives could partake at meetings without formal nomination. She concurred that Council owned facilities should have council representation and in terms of non-Council owned community centres, conversations could be had with the management committees currently in place to see if they wished to have council representation.

Alderman Guy felt that further consideration to the proposal was required and asked that the matter be deferred to full Council.

Councillor Tierney seconded the proposal by Councillor Farrell. He noted that the proposal carried at the AGM on 20 May 2019, was that running D’hondt did not stop until all positions were filled. He advised that there were several more positions to be filled and asked for clarity on the matter and enquired if the entire D’hondt process had to be repeated for all appointments to external bodies. He stated that in terms of practicality the proposal by Councillor Farrell should be

Page 171 14 endorsed. He stated that he welcomed officer suggestions on the matter.

Councillor Duffy referred to the process of rolling D’hondt, adopted at the AGM and advised if additional positions became available the process commenced where it had ended at the Annual General Meeting. She requested that legal opinion be sought before proceeding.

Councillor Ferguson asked for clarification on the matter regarding DEAs.

Councillor Tierney advised that a Councillor for example in the Ballyarnett DEA, would be automatically nominated onto the Shantallow Community Centre. He pointed out that the community groups were previously part of the list of external bodies, however they had been excluded from the D’hondt process at the Special Council meeting on 4 July 2019, therefore Members had not been given the opportunity to nominate onto those positions.

Councillor Farrell stated that his proposal to automatically nominate Elected Representatives from a particular DEA onto the respective Council owned community centres would simplify the process.

Councillor McHugh stated that the sensible option would be to defer the matter to full Council in order for options to be clarified.

The Head of Community Development and Leisure referred to the historical procedures regarding Council owned community managed centres and advised of approximately a further 18 throughout the district, funded by Council but with no elected member representation. He noted that the process previously adopted by Shantallow Community Centre was that all the elected councillors from that area sit on that committee. He further advised that the same process applied to other centres such as Lincoln Courts, however only two elected members attended. He stated that if the matter was deferred to Council, officers would seek a legal opinion on the matter.

Alderman McClintock noted that there was no Unionist representation on the City DEAs. She referred to the Fountain, Ballyarnett and Culmore and stated that there would be no unionist representation on those committees.

Page 172 15

Councillor Farrell then proposed to defer the matter to full Council and to receive legal opinion on the matter.

The Committee

Resolved That Members (i) defer the recommendation of Member representation to the 15 Council owned community managed centres to the Council meeting on 26 September 2019 and that legal opinion be sought on the matter; (ii) Members note the current position of no Member representation on non-Council owned community centres as these centres are independently governed as outlined in the report and (iii) Members note the Education Authority’s position of no requirement for the previous Joint Committee with the Education Authority as outlined in the report.

HC153/19 Technical Design for Glenview Community Centre

The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to provide an update to Members on proposals to develop the proposed new Glenview Community Centre and for Members to note, endorse and approve this approach. Members’ approval was also sought for the allocation of funding to procure an Integrated Consultant Team (ICT) to undertake the design of the proposed new centre and then administer the contract to construct the centre and to supervise the works on site. The proposed ICT commission will be phased with their initial instruction to take the design up to RIBA Works Stage 2: Concept Design.

Councillor Burke welcomed the report and endorsed the recommendation therein. She commended the work carried out by the Glen Development Initiative (GDI) and said that the new centre would open up opportunities for the entire area. She referred to the new plans for the area and enquired if the theoretical flood inundation zone would have any impact.

In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that the car park would be in an adjacent zone as highlighted in the report. He stated that officers had also undertaken recent

Page 173 16

consultations with the Department and other consultees on the planning challenges associated with the new centre.

Councillor Ferguson also welcomed the report and stated that GDI had worked really hard to have the new build progressed. She asked that the organisation will be consulted throughout all stages of the development.

Councillor Farrell stated that he fully supported the proposals for the new community centre as there was a clear need for a fit for purpose facility in that area. He referred to the report and noted that one of the key pieces of work for the design team was to consider a number of sites and asked if Council had given any consideration to alternative sites.

In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that numerous discussions had taken place with GDI on the matter and this would be the initial piece of work that ICT would carry out.

In response to a query from Councillor Reilly, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that the Department of Education had provisionally allocated £150,000 of funding for a youth wing for any new proposed centre. He further stated that with any ICT appointment there would be a detailed programme of works initially for the first phase of the design team appointment.

The Committee

Recommended That Members (i) note the content of the report and endorse and approve the approach to progress this project and (ii) approve the allocation of funding to procure an Integrated Consultant Team (ICT) to undertake the design of the proposed new centre and then administer the contract to construct the centre and to supervise the works on site.

HC154/19 Sunbed Test Purchase Exercise

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of the outcome of the sunbed test purchase

Page 174 17 exercises carried out on 1 August 2019 with respect to The Sunbeds Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 (prohibition on allowing the use of sunbeds by persons under 18 years).

Councillor Ferguson welcomed the report and endorsed the recommendation therein.

Alderman Devenney also endorsed the recommendation within the report. He stated that using sunbeds in teenage years seriously increased the risk of skin cancer in later years and anything to prevent this is welcomed.

Councillor McHugh stated that it was encouraging to see 100 percent compliance with the regulations and asked what compliance there had been in previous years.

In response, the Head of Health and Community Wellbeing stated that Council’s Environmental Health Officers had been working with sunbed premises in the councils since the legislation in 2011 to make them aware of the new legislation and its’ implications for them. However, improved compliance has been achieved due to better awareness from those who both supply and use sunbeds and the implementation of test purchase exercises.

Councillor Reilly welcomed the results and asked if Council was going to undertake some form of public relations exercise and also congratulated those businesses for being compliant. He suggested that the result would also be of interest to the users of those facilities throughout the City and District. He then asked how officers ensured that the providers are not aware of the exercise being carried out in the future and asked if a different ‘child actor’ was used.

In response, the Head of Health and Community Wellbeing stated that test purchase exercises were carried out in accordance with a ‘code of best practice’ and the child varied each year. He further stated that all sunbed premises would have been contacted prior to test purchase exercises taking place reminding them of their legal responsibilities with guidance on how to prevent a sale to an underage child. The premises owner would not be informed of when a test purchase exercise was going to be carried out.

The Committee

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Recommended That Members not the outcome of this year’s test purchase exercise and that Members support a further test purchase exercise to be undertaken in 2020.

HC155/19 Product Safety Incident Management Plan

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of the new Product Safety Incident Management Plan as per ‘PAS 7100:2018 (Code of practice on consumer product safety related recalls and other corrective actions)’.

The Committee

Recommended That Members support the implementation of the proposed Incident Management Plan for use by the Council. This IMP will be used to support the Environmental Health Department in assisting businesses that are required to manage a product safety incident and will ensure that informed decisions are made and accurate information is collated.

HC156/19 Procurement of Service Provider for Dog Kennelling Facilities and Related Services

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval for Council to procure a service provider for dog kennelling facilities and related services.

Councillor Ferguson endorsed the recommendation within the report. She referred to the animal charities located throughout the City and District and the positive impact they were having by enabling stray dogs to be rehomed. She enquired if there would be a certain weighting in regard to the procurement between private kennel owners and the charities.

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In response, the Head of Health and Community Wellbeing said that officers would take advice from the procurement team on the matter.

Alderman Devenney welcomed the recommendation in the report. However, he expressed concern regarding the ongoing issue of dog fouling. He stated that although he welcomed improvements that had been made to attempt to tackle the issue, members of the public were still registering complaints on a daily basis. He enquired how many people had received a fine in relation to dog fouling since the formation of the new Council.

In response, the Head of Health and Community Wellbeing stated that details regarding fixed penalties had been presented at an earlier Committee meeting and that he would furnish Alderman Devenney with the details. He explained that the difficulty in terms of fixed penalty notices was witnessing the offence due to the geographical area and offences potentially taking place early in the morning or in the evening. However, Council dog wardens do carry out proactive patrols in areas where complaints had been received regarding dog fouling. He further stated that mobile CCTV cameras are installed at at various locations on a regular basis. He emphasised the necessity to continue to promote responsible dog ownership and continue with the proactive patrols where possible.

The Committee

Recommended That Members (i) approve that a procurement exercise be carried out for the provision of Dog Kennelling facilities and related services and (ii) that any procurement exercise includes provision for kennelling stray dogs only.

HC157/19 Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report 2018/19

The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to present the Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Annual Report for 2018/19 to Members for information.

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The Committee

Recommended That Members note the contents of the PCSP Annual Report for 2018/19.

HC158/19 Your School Your Club Programme

The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the Your School Your Club programme and the open call for all schools to identify and prioritise a list of potential key strategic key projects for consideration and submission to Sport Northern Ireland under the programme in Year 2 and 3.

The Committee

Recommended That Members (i) note the information regarding the Your School Your Club programme and (ii) note the open call to identify and prioritise a list of key school strategic potential projects for consideration for submission under the programme in Year 2 and 3.

HC159/19 Adoption of Consolidated Byelaws Relating to Health Promotion

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on a previous committee report (HC132/18) concerning the making of Consolidated Byelaws relating to Health Promotion and the passing of a resolution to adopt the provisions of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (NI) Order 1985 as amended by the Local Government (NI) Order 2005 to make new byelaws relating to acupuncture, tattooing, semi-permanent skin colouring, cosmetic piercing and electrolysis in the form of consolidated byelaws.

The Committee

Recommended That Members note the introduction of the consolidated byelaws under the

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provisions of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (NI) Order 1985 as amended by the Local Government (NI) Order 2005, these byelaws will take effect within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area as from 1 May 2019.

HC160/19 Application of Entertainment Licensing to Places of Worship and Educational Establishments

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of the response forwarded to the Department for Communities with respect to their enquiry regarding the application of entertainment licensing to places of religious worship and educational institutions.

The Committee

Recommended That Members note this report and the response forwarded to the Department.

HC161/19 Calorie Wise Award Scheme

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members about the Calorie Wise Scheme and about the first restaurant chain in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area who had secured the Gold Calorie Wise Award for calorie labelling in Northern Ireland restaurants.

The Committee

Recommended That Members note the content of the report.

HC162/19 Response to the Department for Communities Consultation on the Design Guide for Travellers' Sites in Northern Ireland

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members of the response to the Department for

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Communities consultation on the Design Guide for Travellers’ Sites in Northern Ireland. This guide should be considered in the development of new Travellers’ sites and for Travellers’ sites that have to be substantially redeveloped.

The Committee

Recommended That Members note the new Design Guide for Travellers’ Sites in Northern Ireland and the response to the consultation for information.

HC163/19 Response to the Department for Infrastructure's Consultation on New Model Licence Conditions for Caravan Sites

The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members of the response to the Department for Infrastructure’s consultation on New Model Licence Conditions for Caravan Sites. The new model conditions will assist Derry City and Strabane District Council in deciding the conditions to attach to a caravan site licence as issued by the Council under the provisions of the Caravans Act (NI) 1963.

The Committee

Recommended That Members note the attached new Model Licence Conditions for Caravan Sites and the response to the consultation for information. HC164/19 Consultations

The Director of Health and Community presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members regarding consultations received by Council.

The Committee

Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.

HC165/19 Correspondence

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The Director of Health and Community presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members regarding correspondence received by Council.

The Committee

Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.

The meeting then went into confidential business.

Page 181 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 10

Title of Report: Officer Presenting: Chief Executive Responses to Motions Author: Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer

1.0 Purpose of Report/Recommendations

1.1 To advise Members of correspondence received in relation to Motions passed by Council.

2 Correspondence Received

2.0.1 Graduate Entry Medical School at Magee

At the Meeting of Council held on 27 June 2019 the following Motion was passed:

That this Council welcomes the £105 million funding secured, as part of the North West Inclusive Growth Deal, of which the Graduate Entry Medical School is a main catalyst project.

That this Council calls on the Department of Health and the Head of the Civil Service to sign off on the Ulster University’s plan for a Graduate Entry Medical School at Magee.

The Council notes the widespread support for the social, economic and medical necessity of this project over many years, from all political, civic, business representatives and in particular the leaders of the 5 largest political parties.

That this Council calls on all MLAs to urgently reconvene the institutions on the basis of rights and equality for the purposes of ensuring delivery of the Graduate Entry Medical School (GEMS) at Magee Campus given the upcoming deadline to ensure student intake for the year 2020.

Given the Cross Party support for the GEMS that this Council writes to every member of the Northern Ireland Assembly requesting they do what is necessary to get this project underway immediately.

2.0.2 The following responses were received:

Office of the Vice President of Sinn Féin– (Appendix 1) Mr Stewart Dickson MLA (Appendix 2) Page 183 Mr Alan Chambers MLA (Appendix 3) Mrs Pam Cameron MLA (Appendix 4) Mr Jim Wells MLA (Appendix 5) Mr David Sterling, Head of the Civil Service (Appendix 6).

2.1.1 Motion – Climate Change

At the Meeting of Council held on 27 June 2019 the following Motion was passed:

Council notes the recent IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report on the impact of climate breakdown and agrees that drastic measures must be taken to mitigate the risks.

Council requests an urgent report assessing the impact of the activities of Derry and Strabane Council on greenhouse gas emissions. Council must aim for Derry and Strabane to move away entirely from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy sources.

Council congratulates the Extinction Rebellion movement and other activists who have recently protested here and across the world to highlight the threat of climate catastrophe. Council supports the global climate strike set for September 20th next.

Council urges other local Councils to follow suit and also declare a Climate Emergency.

Council recognises that trains are the cleanest means of mass transportation available to us. Council calls for and will campaign for the completion of Phase Three of the promised upgrade of the Derry-Coleraine line.

Council agrees to establish a multi-agency team across the council area including government departments, political parties and other relevant agencies to ensure that tackling the causes of climate change is an immediate priority.

2.1.2 The following responses were received:

Chief Executive, Ards and North Down Borough Council (Appendix 7) Chief Executive, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council (Appendix 8) Chief Executive, Belfast City Council (Appendix 9).

Page 184 2.2.1 Motion – #FDANODELAY Campaign

At the Meeting of Council held on 27 June 2019 the following Motion was passed:

That this Council commends the #FDANODELAY campaign and recognises that people living in hostels and other temporary/emergency accommodation across our society are homeless and deserve to be legally recognised as such by having Full Duty Applicant status awarded. This Council calls on the NIHE Chief Executive to respond outlining what measures the NIHE will now take to accurately audit the extent of the problem regarding homeless people who are not recognised as such and what steps will be taken to remedy these oversights.

2.2.2 The following response was received:

Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Housing Executive (Appendix 10)

2.3.1 Motion – Welfare Mitigations

At the Meeting of Council held on 27 June 2019 the following Motion was passed:

That this Council welcomes the range of reports recently published which highlight the serious risk of greater hardship for many within our community, if Welfare Mitigations do not continue beyond March 2020. These reports include; Welfare Reform: Mitigations on a Cliff Edge, Cliff Edge Coalition NI and NIAO: Welfare Reforms in NI.

Acknowledges that in spite of assurances to the contrary, vulnerable claimants are currently being forced to pay the Bedroom Tax; calls on all parties to work together to establish an inclusive power sharing Executive that can continue the welfare mitigation package beyond March 2020 and calls on the DfC to take all steps necessary to ensure the Mitigations scheme will continue to help the most vulnerable in our community.

2.3.2 The following response was received:

Permanent Secretary, Department for Communities (Appendix 11).

2.4.1 Motion – Industrial Action by NIPSA

At the Meeting of Council held on 18 July 2019 the following Motion was passed:

Council views workers’ rights as intrinsic to a democratic and just society. The struggle for workers’ rights unites rather than divides communities. In Derry and Strabane and elsewhere, poverty wages and disrespect for labour are widespread.

Page 185 Public and private sector workers, including civil servants, have had to rely on foodbanks to survive.

Derry City and Strabane Council stands in solidarity with civil servant members of NIPSA who have voted to take industrial action on July 26th.

Council agrees that the workers concerned should receive an above-inflation pay increase and pay restoration. Council opposes attacks on workers’ terms and conditions. Council supports NIPSA's demand for contract negotiations to be reopened. Council calls for solidarity with the July 26 strike and with whatever further action the workers involved feel it necessary to take to secure their contract demands.

Council agrees to write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance to convey Council's support of these demands. We call for continued engagement to try to resolve the issues in a sustainable and fair way. We call on Government to act with sympathy for the situation of our employees. And we call on our political parties to reach effective agreement at Stormont immediately, so that the NI Assembly can legislate on this and other urgent matters without further delay.

2.4.2 The following response was received:

Permanent Secretary, Department of Finance (Appendix 12).

2.5.1 Proposal – Release of Files from the Metropolitan Police

At the Meeting of Council held on 18 July 2019 the following Motion was passed:

2.5.2 The following response was received:

Page 186 Metropolitan Police (Appendix 13).

2.6.1 Motion – Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee

At the Meeting of Council held on 18 July 2019 the following Motion was passed:

That this Council calls on the Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee to divest the local government pension scheme from fossil fuel companies.

Further this Council calls on the Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee to bring forward an ethical investment policy and desist from investment in tobacco and arms companies.

2.6.2 The following response was received:

Chief Executive, NILGOSC (Appendix 14).

2.7.1 Motion – Animal Cruelty

At the Meeting of Council held on 18 July 2019 the following Motion was passed:

That this Council condemns animal cruelty in all forms; notes the effective framework for punishing offenders and imposing appropriate sentences which serve as a deterrent to others; recognises the work of the USPCA in challenging cruel behaviour toward animals as well as supporting rehoming initiatives for those animals that have suffered abuse or neglect; further notes with concern that there is no central register of those convicted of animal cruelty offences and; resolves to write to the Permanent Secretary at the Department of Justice, and the British and Irish Governments to raise these concerns and propose a central all- island register for animal abusers.

2.7.2 The following responses were received:

Permanent Secretary Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA (Appendix 15) Office of the Taoiseach (Appendix 16) Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Appendix 17) Private SecretaryOffice of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Appendix 18).

3.0 Recommendation

3.1 Members are to consider the replies received and advise if any follow up action is

Page 187 required.

Page 188

Oifig an Leas-Uachtaráin | Office of the Vice-President 53-55 Falls Road, Belfast BT12 4PD

T: (028) 90347350

E: [email protected]

23 July 2019

John Kelpie Chief Executive Derry City Council Council Offices 98 Strand Road Derry BT48 7NN

Dear John I welcome the motion from Derry City and Strabane District Council passed on 27 June in support of the establishment of the Graduate Entry Medical School (GEMS) in the North West.

As the motion points out - and its ratification demonstrates - there is widespread support for the Graduate Entry Medical School, including among political parties.

As you know, my colleague Elisha McCallion MP, has been to the fore in campaigning for the GEMS in Derry for some time.

There is now a clear weight of evidence to support the demand for a medical school at Magee and we have repeatedly urged the Department of Health to conclude its business case.

Recently as part of a united all-party delegation, Elisha and I met with the Head of the Civil Service and both Permanent Secretaries at the departments of Health and Economy, to demand the urgent delivery of the Medical School at Magee. As part of that process, we secured a commitment that additional resources would be allocated to complete the Business Case and also a commitment from the Health and Finance Departments to explore all the funding options.

Page 189

Oifig an Leas-Uachtaráin | Office of the Vice-President 53-55 Falls Road, Belfast BT12 4PD

T: (028) 90347350

E: [email protected]

Sinn Féin remains fully committed to establishing sustainable political institutions that uphold rights, promote equality and demonstrate respect for all citizens. We will continue to engage with the Irish and British governments and all other political parties to deliver a locally accountable and functioning Executive. The absence of a functioning Executive should not be used as an obstacle to proceeding with this vital project. In the period ahead, we will continue to engage with Ulster University, Queen's University Belfast and representatives of the professional medical bodies as part of our efforts to build support for the medical school at Magee.

In summary, I want to reassure you that Sinn Féin will continue to work to secure the establishment of a medical school at Magee that unlocks the economic potential of the North West and which improves our health service and delivers better health outcomes for all.

Yours sincerely

Michelle O’Neill MLA Sinn Féin

Page 190 Page 191 This page is intentionally left blank From: Chambers, Alan CO [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 24 July 2019 13:09 To: John Kelpie Subject: Magee Medical School

Dear Mr Kelpie,

My apologies for the delayed reply, I only received this letter on 24/07/2019.

Thank you for contacting me to express your concerns regarding the recruitment and retention of Doctors, and in particular GPs West of the Bann.

There are presently shortages of Doctors right through from GPs to Consultants. I am aware of the over reliance on Locums and so it is clear to me that more Doctors need to be trained.

I and my Party, the Ulster Unionist Party, support the proposed additional medicine course which is being planned for the Magee Campus within Ulster University. Such a proposal would increase the availability of trainee Doctors to serve throughout Northern Ireland and also assist in encouraging Doctors to take up posts in the West where there are recognised shortages.

I believe this would complement the training already available at Queen’s University Belfast. Given the highly competitive nature of securing a place at Medical School and the strong vocation that exists in many to become a Doctor, I believe that Magee campus would be a suitable location.

Indeed, along with my party leader, Robin Swann MLA, and in my capacity as the Party’s Economy Spokesperson, I met senior managers from Ulster University to hear about their plans. We pledged our ongoing full support at that time for the project, and I am glad to hear that £105 million has been secured for this project.

I am concerned however that in the absence of a functioning Executive and without a Health Minister in place, it is very unlikely that any new course would be open to students anytime soon. This is just the latest example of why we either need a local Minister in place now, or why the UK Government should move to introduce Direct Rule. Someone, somewhere, needs to be in a position to take key decisions such as signing off on the new Magee course.

In any case, we will continue to press for the establishment of this most needed facility and will also continue working towards finding the means to have it signed off at ministerial level.

Best Regards,

Alan Chambers

Page 193 Ulster Unionist Party MLA for North Down

Telephone- 028 91 477 555 Email- [email protected]

1a Donaghadee Road Groomsport BT19 6LG

Page 194 Page 195 Page 196 Page 197 This page is intentionally left blank

David Sterling Head of the Civil Service Room FD.34, Stormont Castle Stormont Estate, Belfast BT4 3TT, Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9037 8133 E-mail: [email protected] Mr John Kelpie Chief Executive Derry City and Strabane District Council Our ref: COR179/2019 C/o Council Offices 98 Strand Road 9 August 2019 DERRY BT48 7NN

By email [email protected]

Dear John

Thank you for your letter of 9 July 2019, notifying me of the Council’s motion relating to Ulster University’s proposal to establish a Graduate Entry Medical School (GEMS) at the Magee campus. You sent a similar letter directly to the Department of Health. Please consider this response as a reply to both of those letters.

Firstly, can I restate the fact that we very much welcome Ulster University’s proposal to establish a Graduate Entry Medical School at its Magee Campus and, as you are aware, the Department of Health has been assisting the University’s team to develop the business case for their GEMS proposal, by providing a detailed critique on each iteration of their document. I understand that the University has found this input to be helpful and that good progress has been made.

This has been an intensive process which is now approaching a conclusion. However, the Department has always been clear that this is just one piece of the jigsaw. While the UU proposal seeks to address the specific question of how an expansion of medical education could be achieved at Magee, it is the job of Government Departments – led by Health but also involving Finance and Economy – to determine whether we should undertake such an expansion, and if so, how we should do so. We must also consider how to pay for it, and ensure value for money for the taxpayer.

I must emphasise the importance of this point. The University is not proposing to finance the Magee medical school from within its own resources, and significant ongoing funding will be required from Government if this is to proceed. As you are aware, all public services are under severe budgetary pressure and we simply cannot spend money we do not have. That is one of the reasons we have always encouraged the University to be realistic about the timescales for the project.

It is also important to reflect, in this context, on the previous UU Springvale Campus project. That project was to have three components, costing a total of £71 million. In the end, only one component – costing £6 million – was delivered. The cross-party Assembly Public Accounts Committee published a report in 2007 which stated: “Funding Departments must, in all cases, comprehensively review and, where necessary, challenge the findings of the Outline Business Case”.

The PAC also stated that the failure to formally and comprehensively review the Springvale Outline Business Case and challenge the assertions in it was “an astounding omission”. The PAC concluded that Departments “must ensure that the viability of projects is fully assessed at an early stage, with detailed updates carried out as circumstances develop. The aim of a rigorous assessment of viability is not to ‘trip up’ a project; rather, it is a mechanism to ensure that potential weaknesses are identified at an early stage and can be addressed.”

In this regard, the Department of Health is currently progressing a business case to address future medical training need as identified in the Northern Ireland Medical Student Places Review which it commissioned from Professor Keith Gardiner. This work includes the identification and assessment of measures to maximise benefits from current spending on undergraduate medical education.

Ultimately, it will be for a future Health Minister and Executive to decide on key spending priorities. However, pending restoration of the devolved institutions, we are working hard to prepare the ground for these decisions, and will continue to co- operate closely with the UU to ensure the Magee proposal is given every opportunity to secure approval.

Yours sincerely

DAVID STERLING Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service

The personal information (e.g., name, personal email/home postal address) included in your correspondence, which the Executive Office now holds, will be handled in accordance with data protection legislation. It will be kept secure and only shared with relevant officials for the purpose of providing a response. This information will be retained for no longer than is necessary, and in line with the Department’s retention and disposal schedule. Page 201 This page is intentionally left blank Page 203 This page is intentionally left blank Page 205 This page is intentionally left blank From: Jayne Byrne [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Suzanne Wylie Sent: 13 July 2019 11:11 To: John Kelpie Subject: Correspondence from Derry City & Strabane DC - Motion re Climate Change Importance: High

Dear John

Many thanks for your letter of 9 July regarding climate adaptation and mitigation. This brief response is intended to meet your request of a response by the 15 July, and I will follow up more comprehensively in due course.

Several motions and discussions have also taken place at Council and Committee level on this issue in recent months, and we are in the process of integrating programmes of work to ensure that resilience and sustainability are one of the priorities in our forthcoming four year Corporate Plan. Furthermore, our members are in the process of establishing a Cross Party Working Group on the Climate Crisis, and Belfast has recently joined the UK wide Place Based Climate Action Network (P-CAN) and is working with Leeds and Edinburgh on a city Climate Commission. This work will include the commissioning of a ‘mini-Stern’ for the city to provide an economic analysis and enable us to prioritise our investment in the right way.

You may be aware that Belfast is a member of the 100 Resilient Cities network and we are working with cities globally to develop our climate resilience. This work is strongly informed by the IPCC report on the impact of climate breakdown.

I am happy to provide further detail on our work in this area, and indeed to meet to discuss further. I will contact you again once our Cross Party Working Group has held its first meeting, which we expect to take place next month- and I will ensure your letter is considered as an agenda item. In the meantime, do not hesitate to get in touch with me or with our Commissioner for Resilience Grainia Long, who is leading our work in this area.

Kind regards Suzanne

Suzanne Wylie Chief Executive Belfast City Council DDI: 028 9027 0202

Page 207 This page is intentionally left blank Page 209 This page is intentionally left blank Page 211 Page 212 SUE GRAY PERMANENT SECRETARY

2nd Floor West Clare House 303 Airport Road West BELFAST, BT3 9ED Tel No: 028 90816590 E-mail: [email protected]

Mr John Kelpie Your reference: TJ Chief Executive Derry City & Strabane District Council Our reference: SCORR-0463-2019 98 Strand Road Derry BT48 7NN 30 July 2019

Dear John

Thank you for your letter of 23 July and detail of the motion passed at the 18 July meeting of the Derry City and Strabane District Council.

The Department of Finance held extensive negotiations with the recognised trade unions in relation to the NICS pay award for 2018, following which an offer was made which was worth 2.05% overall on the pay bill for non- industrial staff in the NI Civil Service (NICS).

You will be aware NICS Departments are faced with major constraints imposed by ongoing budgetary pressures on the Northern Ireland block. In determining the level of award, I have been very mindful of the need to tackle low pay in the NICS and the award includes a larger increase of 3% for administrative assistants and analogous grades with all others receiving a 1.25% uplift. In addition, staff who are eligible will also receive pay progression.

These were difficult decisions in financially constrained circumstances and the 2018 award was the best possible within these public sector pay constraints.

There are no plans to reopen negotiations on 2018 pay and it is my intention to initiate negotiations for the 2019 pay award at the earliest opportunity.

SUE GRAY

Page 213 This page is intentionally left blank Page 215 Page 216 Templeton House 411 Holywood Road Belfast BT4 2LP T: 0345 319 7320 F: 0345 319 7321 E: [email protected]

www.nilgosc.org.uk

Mr J Kelpie Chief Executive Derry City & Strabane DC 98 Strand Road Derry BT48 7NN

10 September 2019

Dear Mr Kelpie

Thank you for your recent letter informing NILGOSC of the motion approved by the Council on 18 July 2019.

Fossil Fuels

The NILGOSC pension fund is the largest in Northern Ireland. Valued at £8.04bn at 31 March 2019, investments are made in a range of asset classes across the world. NILGOSC has a duty to obtain the best return for the beneficiaries of the pension scheme. But in addition, as a long-term investor, it believes that Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues will affect long-term returns and therefore it is an active responsible investor working with other large schemes across the world on ESG issues and is signatory of the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment. More details are provided in our Statement of Responsible Investment (enclosed).

NILGOSC has a specific Climate Risk policy (enclosed) which sets out our belief that it is in the long-term interests of our members to promote climate risk mitigation and adaption in those companies in which we invest. However, blanket disinvestment for non-investment related reasons from companies extracting fossil fuels is not part of its strategy.

NILGOSC delegates the selection of individual stocks to its fund managers whom it has instructed to take account of climate risk in their decision making process provided the primary financial obligation is not compromised. Our holdings in any Oil & Gas company will fluctuate depending on the investment reasoning exercised by the fund managers, and, to be clear, this reasoning does include climate risk. NILGOSC’s holding in the Coal, Oil & Gas sector has fallen by 80% in the last four years. In 2015 it held £167m directly in the sector, in 2019 this has fallen to £33m, which is less than 0.4% of the total fund. It holds particular

Page 217 companies due to their low valuation and balance sheet strength which reduces portfolio volatility.

NILGOSC believes that a blanket ban on the Oil and Gas sector would have no effect on CO2 levels and that a reduction in demand would be more effective. Therefore, it proactively considers opportunities to invest in clean energy and is currently invested in, locally and globally, manufacturers of electric vehicles, wind power, solar power, hydropower, biomass, public transport, district heating and energy conservation.

Gas is currently, and will be future in the future, a vital element of the fuel mix. Gas is 30% cleaner than oil and 45% cleaner than coal. The shift in electricity production from coal to gas has been the main cause of Northern Ireland’s reduction in CO2 levels in the past 10 years. However Northern Ireland has an extremely high proportion of households still using oil for their heating supply. A shift to gas would reduce heating emissions by a third. Therefore any ban on Gas will eliminate the simplest method of reducing emissions.

If NILGOSC was forced to sell its holdings in the Oil and Gas sector it would mean that these shares would then be held by another investor, perhaps one who does not consider the climate risks as NILGOSC does. It also means giving up any influence over the business of the companies which as explained below is a useful tool in encouraging traditional companies transition to the <2 degree world agreed in Paris.

NILGOSC is a signatory to the Carbon Disclosure Project and is a signatory to the Investor Agenda’s December 2018 Global Investor Statement to Governments on Climate Change for the UN COP24 conference held in Poland. NILGOSC has also collaborated with other major global funds to engage with fuel and mining companies to encourage greater transparency around the business risks of climate change.

As a shareholder NILGOSC can influence the company by voting at company meetings. In 2015 NILGOSC was successful in co-filing resolutions at the company meetings of BP and Shell (NILGOSC no longer has holdings in Shell) calling for greater disclosure on sustainability reporting, which received wide spread support from shareholders and the companies themselves. In 2016 it co-filed similar successful resolutions at the AGM's of Rio Tinto and Anglo American (NILGOSC no longer has holdings in either company). More recently, in May 2019, BP agreed to support a shareholder resolution to disclose how its spending plans, emission policies and broader business strategy align with the Paris agreement. This is a major step forward in aligning that company’s business plan to a <2 degree world. We filed the resolution as part of the Climate Action 100+ initiative which is engaging with 100 of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters to curb emissions, strengthen climate-related financial disclosures and improve governance on climate change risks. Early successes, as well as BP, include Shell, Glencore and Equinor (formerly Statoil).

In addition NILGOSC has supported the following investor led initiatives:-

• 2019 Global Investor Statement to Governments on Climate Change • Carbon Disclosure Project’s 2018 Climate Change, Water and Forests campaigns and the 2018 Investor Action Request (signatory since 2007). • CDP's 2018 Non-Disclosure Campaign Page 218 • UNPRI facilitated letter to IOSCO on ESG disclosure. • Global Statement on Investor Obligations and Duties. • Company-investor letter calling stock exchanges to put in place voluntary guidance for issuers on reporting ESG information by the end of 2016 - Led by Allianz Global Investors, and supported by the PRI and the UN Global Compact. • 2014 to 2019: Collaborative engagement on water risks in agricultural supply chains - group comprising UNPRI signatories. • Global investor statement to the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) Secretariat and its Executive Board on sustainability disclosure - facilitated by UNPRI, CERES and UNEP FI. • During the Period 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018, NILGOSC supported 12 shareholder resolutions related to the environment and sustainability reporting, including requests for improved reporting on sustainability generally, as well as those requesting specific disclosure on greenhouse gas emissions, the transition to a low carbon business model and the impact of climate change.

In summary NILGOSC does not intend to divest in the manner called upon by the Council (although it may do so on investment grounds at any time) but I hope the Council will understand that the approach taken by NILGOSC is more likely to meet the ambitions of the Council regarding climate change. I am very happy to explain further if needs be and I have also enclosed our document which provides more detail on how we are responding to Climate Change.

Ethical Policy and Divestment from Tobacco and Arms

The Council also called on NILGOSC to bring forward an ethical policy and divest from tobacco and arms companies. As mentioned above NILGOSC already has a Responsible Investment policy which sets out our objectives in this area. Section 3 states that NILGOSC delegates the selection of investments held to its fund managers and does not impose any investment restrictions in regard of social, ethical and environmental issues. NILGOSC does not make any investments specifically for social, ethical and environmental reasons. NILGOSC has instructed its active fund managers to take account of ESG considerations provided the primary financial obligation is not compromised. In other words the decisions about which particular companies to invest in are delegated to our fund managers. NILGOSC has not instructed them to invest in a particular sector nor has it instructed them not to invest in a particular sector. However NILGOSC does expect the fund manager to take non-financial factors into account when making investment decisions. NILGOSC’s overriding obligation is to act in the best interests of the scheme beneficiaries and it is required to diversify its investments. Excluding sectors for non-investment reasons limits our ability to maintain a diversified portfolio.

We welcome interest from our scheme employers on how the fund is invested. If I can provide any further information please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours sincerely

Page 219

David Murphy Chief Executive

Encs: Statement of Responsible Investment April 2017 Climate Risk Statement June 2017 Responding to Climate Change August 2019

Page 220

STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT

1. Principles

1.1 NILGOSC's overriding obligation is to act in the best interests of the scheme beneficiaries. In this fiduciary role NILGOSC believes that environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues can affect the financial performance of investments. Accordingly, NILGOSC believes that these factors should be taken into account when managing the Scheme’s assets, subject to the overriding fiduciary duty to maximise the financial return on investments. NILGOSC has developed this Statement of Responsible Investment to outline how such issues are incorporated into its investment practices.

1.2 As a means of demonstrating its commitment to responsible investment practices, NILGOSC has adopted the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UNPRI).

1.3 NILGOSC believes that engagement is a key part of any responsible investment strategy and engages with companies both directly and via its fund managers. NILGOSC also participates in collaborative initiatives with other like-minded investors and groups, which seek to improve company behaviour, policies or systemic conditions

1.4 NILGOSC has a Proxy Voting Policy, which sets out its expectations for good corporate governance in the companies in which it invests. This policy represents NILGOSC’s view on what it believes are important elements of good corporate governance and the principles which will be used to determine voting decisions on specific issues. A copy is available at www.nilgosc.org.uk/voting-policies-and- activity.

1.5 NILGOSC has developed a Climate Risk Statement to sit alongside the Statement of Responsible Investment. The Statement acknowledges the importance of climate risk as an investment issue and sets out the steps which will be taken to address it. A copy is available at http://www.nilgosc.org.uk/climate-risk.

1.6 NILGOSC supports the principles set out in the UK Stewardship Code and has published a Statement of Adherence to the Code, which is available on its website at http://www.nilgosc.org.uk/stewardship. NILGOSC also requires its fund managers to provide copies of their Statements of Adherence to the Stewardship Code and monitors their compliance with its principles.

2. Responsible Ownership

2.1 Responsible ownership is about recognising that the impacts of corporations on the environment, on workers and on communities can seriously affect shareholder value. It also places a high value on companies' own good governance. Responsible ownership differs from ethical investment, which generally focuses on excluding or including companies from an investment portfolio (positive or negative screening). By contrast, responsible ownership involves investors using their shareholder power in the companies they invest in. NILGOSC does this by voting at shareholder meetings and by engaging, both directly and indirectly, with company senior management when ESG issues of concern have been identified. The purpose of voting and engagement is to improve corporate behaviour and to protect shareholder value.

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STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT

2.2 NILGOSC believes that, as a responsible investor, it has a legitimate interest in the management and corporate governance of the companies in which it invests and supports the use of voting as a means of expressing concern over ESG issues. By exercising its right to vote at company meetings, NILGOSC seeks to improve corporate behaviour by maintaining effective shareholder oversight of the directors and company policies, a process on which the current system of corporate governance depends.

2.3 NILGOSC expects the companies in which it invests to comply with ESG best practice. NILGOSC’s voting policy provides a basis for communicating with investee companies and holding directors accountable for the stewardship of the company. A copy is available on its website at http://www.nilgosc.org.uk/voting- policies-and-activity.

2.4 NILGOSC will exercise its voting rights, if possible, at all company meetings within its actively managed equity portfolios and will vote against management where there are significant ESG failings. When possible, NILGOSC will inform those companies of the rationale for its voting decision. At present, this applies to UK and European listed companies only.

2.5 For passively managed equities, votes are cast by NILGOSC’s passive fund manager, Legal & General Investment Management, according to its own voting policies. The manager reports to NILGOSC on its voting activities on a quarterly basis.

2.6 NILGOSC will collaborate with other like-minded investors and groups in order to engage with companies, industries and countries in which it invests in order to improve levels of corporate governance where needed.

2.7 All active fund managers are encouraged to engage, on NILGOSC’s behalf, with those companies where ESG policies fall short of acceptable standards and where this is likely to have a detrimental effect on the long-term value of the company.

2.8 NILGOSC will seek to recover all monies due to it from settled class actions and will consider, on a case-by-case basis, being party to class actions against investee companies arising from failings in corporate governance.

2.9 NILGOSC may also on occasion co-file shareholder resolutions with other like- minded investors at a company meeting in order to influence change at the company provided that it is considered to be in the best interest of shareholders.

3. Investment Decisions

3.1 NILGOSC delegates the selection of investments held to its fund managers and does not impose any investment restrictions in regard of social, ethical and environmental issues. NILGOSC does not make any investments specifically for social, ethical and environmental reasons.

3.2 NILGOSC has instructed its active fund managers to take account of ESG considerations provided the primary financial obligation is not compromised.

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STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT

3.3 NILGOSC will ensure that the fund managers it appoints are capable of appropriately considering ESG issues when making investment choices, it will monitor the managers’ action in this area and will work with fund managers and the investment sector to ensure sufficient data is available to aid effective decision making.

Published: 27 October 2008 Reviewed: 4 January 2010 Reviewed: 29 April 2014 Reviewed: 27 April 2017 Next review due: April 2020

Page 223

Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee

Climate Risk Statement

1 Introduction

1.1 Climate change is a key challenge for global corporations and institutional investors alike. NILGOSC acknowledges that the changing climate will have a significant impact on corporations, whether through direct physical impacts to infrastructure, tighter regulations, or reputational damage suffered by those companies who fail to adequately address the issue of global warming.

1.2 NILGOSC considers it to be in the long-term interests of its members to promote climate risk mitigation and adaptation in those companies in which it invests. By working together with like-minded investors, NILGOSC seeks to create an investment environment which contributes to a low carbon economy.

1.3 NILGOSC believes that sound governance practices and responsible corporate behaviour can contribute significantly to the long-term performance of investments. Accordingly, NILGOSC will take climate risk considerations into account as part of its investment policy.

2 Responsible Ownership

2.1 As an investor, NILGOSC will seek to encourage investee companies to provide accurate and timely disclosure of the material risks and opportunities associated with climate change. NILGOSC aims to encourage companies to be transparent and accountable in respect of their impact on the environment, for example through the setting of targets and timeframes for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Where such disclosure is lacking, or where there are shortcomings in the steps taken to address climate risks and opportunities, NILGOSC will seek to engage with such companies either directly or by joining together with like-minded investors in UNPRI facilitated or similar collaborative initiatives.

2.2 NILGOSC considers the disclosure of climate risks and opportunities to be essential if shareholders are to determine whether the companies in which they invest are adequately addressing the changing climate. NILGOSC will support calls for greater disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of climate change on a company’s business activities through the targeted exercise of its voting rights.

2.3 NILGOSC will work together with other like-minded investors on initiatives which seek to reduce the threat and impact of climate change. NILGOSC is a signatory to the 2014 Global Investor Statement on Climate Change and has encouraged our fund managers to do the same. NILGOSC has also signed the 2017 Global Investor Letter to G7 and G20 Governments on Climate Change. Other climate change related initiatives are listed on the Engagement and Initiative section of the NILGOSC website: http://www.nilgosc.org.uk/engagement-and-initiatives1

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Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee

Climate Risk Statement

3 Investment Decisions

3.1 Where there are risks there are also opportunities, and the investment opportunities posed by climate change are significant. Long-term investors such as NILGOSC have a responsibility to mitigate the risks and seize the opportunities presented by climate change.

3.2 NILGOSC delegates the selection of investments held to its fund managers and does not impose restrictions on environmental, social or governance grounds alone. NILGOSC has instructed its active fund managers to take account of climate risk considerations in its decision-making process, provided the primary financial obligation is not compromised.

3.3 NILGOSC will seek to ensure that the fund managers and consultants it appoints have the necessary expertise in assessing climate risk. In making investment decisions, NILGOSC will encourage its fund managers to address climate risks and opportunities in their investment research, analysis, decision making and engagement activities.

3.4 All active fund managers are instructed to engage, on NILGOSC’s behalf, with those companies where ESG policies fall short of acceptable standards.

3.5 NILGOSC will encourage its investment consultant to consider the impact and opportunities of climate change in the provision of advice, including the proactive consideration of opportunities to invest in clean energy.

4 Review

4.1 This document is reviewed every three years and will be updated as need be.

Reviewed: 29 June 2017 Next review due: June 2020

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Page 226 August 2019

Responding to Climate Change August 2019

Introduction

NILGOSC is the organisation that manages the Local Government Pension Scheme in Northern Ireland for approximately 130,000 current and retired public sector workers. How it does this is laid out in a wide range of legislation. As well as the administration of the Scheme NILGOSC also maintains an investment fund which is used to pay the monthly pensions. This fund is currently valued at £8bn.

This document is a summary of how Climate Change could affect the pension fund, how NILGOSC’s investment policy is designed to mitigate the risks posed by Climate Change, how NILGOSC is contributing to the low-carbon transition and its work with others to encourage the action necessary to limit temperature rise to the 2°C degrees or below as per the Paris Agreement.

Climate Change and the Paris Agreement

Our environment is changingi. Human activity has increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere to levels higher than at any time during the last 800,000 years. These trends are driving global average temperature rise at a current rate of about 0.2°C per decade and accelerating the number of species that are becoming extinctii.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C showed that humans have caused around 1°C of global warming since the pre-industrial era (1850-1900), with much greater warming in some regions, particularly the Arcticiii. Earth has experienced major climate shifts in the past, but since the 1950s, many of the changes are unprecedentediv. If greenhouse gas emissions continue at their current rate, global mean surface temperature could rise by more than 4°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100v.

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Responding to Climate Change August 2019

In December 2015 representatives of 196 countries met in France and negotiated the Paris Agreement which aims to reduce the emission of gases that contribute to global warming. The agreement was designed to limit greenhouse gas emissions to levels that would prevent global temperatures from increasing more than 2°C above the temperature benchmark set before the beginning of the Industrial Revolutionvi. As of March 2019, 195 states including the United Kingdom, had signed the agreementvii. It is up to each country to determine how it will meet the objectives of the treaty.

Each Country’s Share of CO2 Emissions, Union of Concerned Scientists and IEA data The reduction of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is key to limiting Climate Change. In June 2019, the UK became the world’s first major economy to pass a law committing the country to a target of ‘net zero’ emissions by 2050viii. However the actions of single countries will not be effective unless the large emittersix, such as the United States and China, take the appropriate action. Unfortunately in June 2017 the US President announced that the United States would withdraw from the Paris Agreementx.

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Responding to Climate Change August 2019

The Climate Change Risk to NILGOSC

NILGOSC is both a global and a long-term investor therefore it can expect the returns it receives on its investments to be affected by Climate Change. Research has indicated that traditional investment portfolios will be affected negatively, more so with each increase in temperaturexi.

In 2008 NILGOSC published its Climate Risk Statement which set out the action it would take to mitigate the risk of Climate Changexii. Following the action taken and using the latest research NILGOSC is now expecting only a modest reduction in return, however, with further action it plans to deliver returns in line with its investment strategy. These actions are described in the remainder of this document.

NILGOSC has a fiduciary duty to its employers and members and must exercise its power to invest on investment grounds only, not for some other reason. It is not permissible to exclude from the fund any investments for non-investment reasons if it is likely to have an adverse impact on the returns achieved or lead to the fund being exposed to an unduly narrow and undiversified portfolio.xiii Therefore NILGOSC makes decisions around investments on investment grounds only which includes the taking into account the effects of Climate Risk on future values.

In 2019 NILGOSC almost halved the proportion of the fund invested in equities. This shift along with an increase in fixed income and infrastructure assets has significantly reduced the likelihood of a negative effect on returns in the scenario of temperature rises. However returns should be greater if the temperature rise is limited to 2°C or less therefore NILGOSC supports the aims of the Paris Agreement. It demonstrates its support through the various engagement activities it undertakes on top of the investment decision making process.

In July 2019 NILGOSC’s investment strategy and governance was rated ‘A’ by the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment, the pre-eminent body governing responsible investment.

NILGOSC was awarded an ‘A’ rating by the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment in July 2019

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Greenhouse Gases

The sources of greenhouse gas emissions vary by country across the world. Taking Northern Ireland as an example, in 2017 its emissions accounted for 4.3% of total UK emissions. The main emitter was the Agriculture sector followed by Transport and Energy Supplyxiv.

Emissions from Energy Supplies in Northern Ireland and across the UK have been falling significantly in recent years and this has been a major contributor to the overall decrease in UK emissions by 30%. The key reason is the shift away from coal and oil to gas and renewables for the generation of electricityxv. Gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel emitting 45% less CO2 than coal and 30% less CO2 than oilxvi.

UK Electricity Sources 1995-2018 (source: BEIS) 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Coal Oil Gas Nuclear Hydro Wind Bioenergy Solar

Each country will have its own mix of greenhouse gas emissions from different sources and therefore will need its own solution for reducing emissions. The Paris Agreement recognises this rather than imposing the same solution across the world.

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NILGOSC’s Global Engagement with Governments

Individuals and organisations can take action to mitigate against Climate Change but it is governments that need to take the lead and ultimately make the legislation necessary to control greenhouse gas emissions.

In global terms NILGOSC is a small investor but it has collaborated with many other investors to lobby governments to take the urgent action needed to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. NILGOSC is a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and, at a European level, is a member of the Institutional Investor Group on Climate Change (IIGCC). NILGOSC joined with 447 other investors, with assets totalling $34 trillion, at the last G20 meeting to encourage those governments to do more as up to that point in time the commitment made would only limit temperature rise to 2.9-3.4°C, therefore failing to meet the Paris Agreement objectivexvii.

NILGOSC’s Own Investments

NILGOSC significantly reduced its holdings in Equities in 2019 and increased its allocation to Infrastructure. It is continuing to build up its Infrastructure portfolio and currently holds assets that are an important part of the emerging low-carbon economy.

NILGOSC has holdings in Acciona Energia International which provide wind, solar and hydro power.

The assets are worldwide and include wind, solar, energy-from-waste and hydro power generators, public transport systems, district heating and manufacturers for the renewable energy industry.

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Responding to Climate Change August 2019

Case Study - DIF Infrastructure V Fund

NILGOSC has committed €50m to a global infrastructure fund managed by DIF Capital Partners. Through this fund NILGOSC is invested in a range of assets which form part of the low-carbon economy. 3 such assets are:-

Dublin Waste to Energy: The Dublin Port waste-to-energy facility is the largest in Ireland. Operating in conjunction with Dublin City Council it is designed to convert 600,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste into 60 megawatts of electricity and, in the future, generate 90 megawatts of district heatingxviii.

Synergy Wind and Solar: This joint venture has acquired Synergy’s wind and solar PV power projects located in Western Australia. This includes the 36MW Albany Grasmere Wind Farm, the 40MW Greenough River Solar Farm and the 180MW Warradarge Wind Farm plus a pipeline of other projects.xix

BluEarth Renewables: Based in Calgary, BluEarth acquires, develops, builds and operates wind, solar and hydro energy projects in the US and Canada. It operates 19 facilities with a current capacity of 381MW but with 1000MW in developmentxx.

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As well as infrastructure assets NILGOSC also invests around 34% of the total fund in global equities. NILGOSC maintains a diverse portfolioxxi covering all sectors but the direct holdings, for example, in the Utilities sector tilts towards those energy companies using renewable sources such as NextEra Energy, Eversource Energy, and Endsea. NILGOSC also has holdings in Tesla and NIO the electric car manufacturers. It should be noted however that equity holdings are subject to change.

Case Study - NextEra Energy Inc.

NextEra Energy is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from wind and sunxxii. Based in the United States, it operates nearly 14,000 MW of wind energy which is sufficient to power almost 4.2 million homes and is growing its wind portfolio.

It provides solar energy to Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey and New Mexico. It is also the US’s leader in energy storage with the largest amount of operational storage used to balance the load on the power grid and to respond to demand quickly. It has more than 140MW of capacity. For example, the Babcock Ranch Solar Energy Center, is the largest combined solar-plus-storage facility in the country, incorporates a 10MW battery storage project with the operations of a 74.5 MW solar power plant.xxiii. Babcock Ranch is referred to as America’s first solar powered town.

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NILGOSC has appointed a range of fund mangers to determine which securities to hold and has instructed those managers to take Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations into account when making those decisionsxxiv. NILGOSC holds securities in companies in most sectors and markets as it is required to hold a diverse portfolio in order to reduce investment risk.

Although NILGOSC delegates responsibility to the fund managers to select shares NILGOSC remains the beneficial owner and seeks to influence the company on ESG related issues including Climate Change. NILGOSC exercises its vote at company meetings. In the year to 30 June 2018 NILGOSC voted at 540 meetings in 33 countries. It cast 7,080 votes of which 2,480 were against the company management’s recommendationxxv. Included in the vote total are Shareholder resolutions, of which 5% related to Climate Changexxvi.

NILGOSC has previously co-filed resolutions at company meetings on Climate Change related issues. For example, in 2019, NILGOSC co-filed a resolution at the BP Plc AGM calling on it to disclose how its spending plans, emission policies and broader business strategy align with the Paris agreement. The resolution was supported by shareholders and by company management. This is a major step forward in aligning that company’s business plan to a <2° world and is an indicator of the influence shareholders can have over a company’s activities.

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NILGOSC filed the resolution as part of the Climate Action 100+ initiative which is engaging with 100 of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters to curb emissions, strengthen climate-related financial disclosures and improve governance on climate change risks. Early successes, as well as BP, include Shell, Glencore and Equinor (formerly Statoil). Climate Action 100+ is a collaboration of 360 global investor with assets totalling $34 trillion.

Working with companies like BP and other Energy companies is extremely important for addressing Climate Change through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The market for renewable energy investment opportunities is still immature with higher risk/return profiles when compared to traditional markets. Existing energy companies are major providers of capital for these types of investments. Where NILGOSC holds shares in specific energy companies, it uses its influence as a shareholder to transition the company to a low-carbon economy.

Case Study - Climate Action 100+

NILGOSC is a signatory to, and supporter of Climate Action 100+ which is an investor initiative to ensure the world’s largest corporate greenhouse gas emitters take necessary action on climate change. The companies include 100 ‘systemically important emitters’, accounting for two-thirds of annual global industrial emissions, alongside more than 60 others with significant opportunity to drive the clean energy transition.

Launched in December 2017 at the One Planet Summit, Climate Action 100+ garnered worldwide attention as it was highlighted as one of 12 key global initiatives to tackle climate change.

Investor representatives from AustralianSuper, California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), HSBC Global Asset Management, Ircantec and Manulife Asset Management have helped to lead the design and development of Climate Action 100+.

The initiative is designed to implement the investor commitment first set out in the Global Investor Statement on Climate Change in the months leading up to the adoption of the historic Paris Agreement in 2015 -“As institutional investors and consistent with our fiduciary duty to our beneficiaries, we will work with the companies in which we invest to ensure that they are minimising and disclosing the risks and maximizing the opportunities presented by climate change and climate policy.”

To date, more than 360 investors with more than USD $34 trillion in assets under management have signed on to the initiative. In July 2018, Climate Action 100+ released an update that showed more investors are mobilising across dozens of countries to drive corporate action on climate change, and companies on the initiative’s focus list, have started to make progress towards its goals, including a trebling in support for the recommendations of the Financial Stability Board’s Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures.

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Responding to Climate Change August 2019

NILGOSC is also a signatory to the Carbon Disclosure Project, which runs a disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impactsxxvii. It aims to make environmental reporting and risk management a business norm, and drive disclosure, insight and action towards a sustainable economy. CDP requests information on climate risks and low carbon opportunities from the world’s largest companies on behalf of over 800 institutional investor signatories with a combined US$100 trillion in assets.

NILGOSC has not banned investments in particular industries. It is up to its fund managers to determine which stocks or companies to hold but they must take ESG issues, including Climate Risk, into account when making the investment decision. Decisions have to be made for clear investment reasons and not for political or ethical reasons.

Case Study - Why does NILGOSC not ban investment in Fossil Fuels?

NILGOSC has not banned investments in any particular industry including Coal, Oil & Gas. It is up to its Fund Managers to determine which stocks to hold but they must take ESG issues into account when making the investment decision.

NILGOSC’s holding in the Coal, Oil & Gas sector has fallen significantly in recent years. In 2015 it held £167m directly in the sector, in 2019 this has fallen to £33m, which is less than 0.4% of the total fund. The fund currently has no holdings in coal. It holds particular companies due to their low valuation and balance sheet strength which reduces portfolio volatility.

Those companies in which it holds shares are listed on public stock markets and have good levels of corporate governance. NILGOSC as a shareholder can vote at company meetings and influence the direction of the Company. At the 2019 meeting of BP, it co-filed a resolution, that was carried, demanding that it disclose how its spending plans, emission policies and broader business strategy align with the Paris agreement.

Whilst NILGOSC’s holdings in the Oil & Gas sector are low it recognises that some operators in the Oil & Gas sector are important for the transition to the low-carbon economy. This is especially relevant to the Gas sector where emissions of CO2 are 30% less than oil and 45% less than Coal. Energy usage across the world is forecast to rise and renewable sources cannot replace all Coal, Oil & Gas in the medium term however the continued conversion from Coal and Oil to Gas will result in lower CO2 emissions in the interim period.

NILGOSC believes that the forced selling of its relatively small holdings in Oil & Gas will have no positive effect on CO2 levels for a number of additional reasons:

• Selling shares has no effect on the company profits. It simply passes ownership of the shares to another buyer, who may well have less concern about the climate than NILGOSC does. • Selling shares will have no effect on the supply of oil and gas. 80% of the world’s oil companies are not listed and are in private or state ownership. These companies will continue irrespective of any divestment initiative and continue the supply. • Divestment is a distraction from the most important action which is to reduce demand. It is not the Oil & Gas sector which is burning the fuel and creating CO2, it is the demand side, domestic and commercial users.

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Summary

NILGOSC has been taking action to mitigate the investment risk brought about by Climate Change since 2008. It has positioned its portfolio such that the downside from adverse returns is minimised but that there are also upside opportunities from its investments in assets operating in the low-carbon economy. It has amplified its influence by collaborating with other investors to engage with governments and individual global companies in the desire to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and achieve the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

NILGOSC believes the best way to bring about change in corporate behaviour is to remain as an active and influential investor. Alongside this it will continue to seek suitable investments in low carbon opportunities where these yield an attractive level of return for an acceptable level of risk. To this end it will continue to engage with governments and policy makers to establish long-term policies which create a range of attractive opportunities and technologies of the future. i Met Office Hadley Centre observations datasets ii HM Government Green Finance Strategy, Transforming Finance for a Greener Future July 2019 iii IPCC, (2014). Summary for Policy Makers – section B. Contribution of Working Group I to the IPCC 5th Assessment Report iv IPCC, (2013): Section B1 and Table SPM.1, SPM, Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the 5th Assessment Report of the IPCC v The Royal Society, (2018), Keeping Global Warming to 1.5°C vi The Paris Agreement vii United Nations Treaty Collection – Chapter XXVII Environment 7.d Paris Agreement viii UK becomes first major economy to pass net zero emissions law ix Each Country’s Share of Co2 Emissions, Union of Concerned Scientists and IEA data x CNBC Trump: US is withdrawing from Paris climate agreement but wants to renegotiate xi Mercer – Investing in a Time of Change The Sequel 2019 xii NILGOSC Climate Risk Statement xiii Summary of legal opinions and judgements on the role of non-financial considerations in investment decision making xiv DAERA NI Greenhouse Gas Inventory Statistical Bulletin Infographic June 2019 xv National Statistics Energy Trends: Fuel used in electricity generation ET5.1 August 2019 xvi Energy Information Agency How much carbon dioxide is produced when different fuels are burned? xvii 477 investors with USD $34 trillion in assets urge G20 leaders to keep global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius June 2019 xviii https://www.dublinwastetoenergy.ie/ xix https://www.synergy.net.au/Our-energy/Renewable-program xx https://bluearthrenewables.com/about/ xxi NILGOSC Direct equity holdings 31 March 2019 xxii http://www.nexteraenergy.com xxiii https://www.babcockranch.com/about-us/solar/ xxiv NILGOSC Statement of Responsible Investment xxv NILGOSC Review of Proxy Voting 2018 xxvi NILGOSC Shareholder Resolutions 1 July 2017-30 June 2018 xxvii CDP

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Title of Report: Officer Presenting: Chief Executive Resolutions from Other Councils Author: Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer

1 Purpose of Report/Recommendations

1.1 To advise Members of Resolutions received from other councils.

2 Correspondence Received

2.1 Correspondence has been received from Belfast City Council outlining a resolution adopted by their Council (Appendix 1).

3 Recommendations

3.1 In accordance with Council procedures, these resolutions will be treated as a matter for information to be noted, and only discussed if the majority of Members agree to such discussion.

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Sealing List September 2019

Document Sealed 23rd July 2019

Consortium Agreement:- Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, Mid East Antrim Borough Council, Mid Ulster District Council, and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council relating to Full Fibre Northern Ireland Consortium (FFNI) Programme.

Document Sealed 6th August 2019

Lease in duplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ North West Model Aircraft Club relating to lands at Duncastle Road, Derry.

Document Sealed 17th September 2019

Section 76 Planning Agreement in triplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ Southbank Square Limited ~and~ Ulsterbus Limited and Northern Ireland Railways Company Limited relating to H30 lands.

Documents Sealed 26th September 2019

Grants of Right of Burial in Ballyoan Cemetery

Mrs Karen McIntyre, 7 Fernabbey Drive, BT48 8RE Mr Colin Campbell, 5 Ballyore Drive BT47 2QU Mrs Sharon Quigley, 6a Knightsbridge L’Derry BT47 6FE Mr Kenneth Lyttle, 4 Rosendale Avenue, Limavady BT49 0AL Mr Noel McBratney, 16 Beech Park, Drumahoe BT47 3NR Mrs Elizabeth Diamond, 9 Burnside Gardens, Derry, BT47 5TH Mr Raymond Freeman, 3 Orpen Park, Waterside, BT47 5PQ Mr Mervyn Taylor, 13 Lisnagowan Court, L’Derry, BT47 6WF Mrs Olive Canning, 27 Bayswater, Derry, BT47 6JL Ann Marie Jayasuriya, 9 Richill Park, Kilfennan, Derry, BT47 5QX Mr Robert Auld, 63 Glenshane Road, Drumahoe, L’Derry, BT47 3SF Mr Hamilton Blain, 42 Knockwellan Park, L’derry, BT47 2JF Mr Reggie Jeffrey, 31 Rossdowney Gardens, L’derry, BT47 5PW Mrs Fiona Hetherington, 55 Sperrin Park, L’derry, BT47 6NG Mr Michael Boyle, 2 Deramore Drive, Strathfoyle, BT47 6XL Ms Ashaya Tracey, 12 Eskaheen View, Derry, BT47 2EP

Page 251 Grants of Right of Burial in City Cemetery

Ms Tammy Young, 23 Brookview, Eglinton, BT47 3GW Ms Margaret McInelly, 66 Cartyne Road, Glasgow, G33 2NP Mr Michael McDermott, 32 Rathlin Gardens, Derry, BT48 9UE Mrs Ann Carlin, 14 Benevanagh Gardens, Creggan, Derry, BT48 9TR Ms Donna Wray, 3 Corporation Street, Derry, BT48 6UG Mrs Ann McColgan, 42 Benview Estate, Coshquin, Derry, BT48 0NQ Mr Thomas McConnell, 71 Rosskeen Park, Hazelbank, Derry, BT48 0RJ Mrs Roisin Campbell, 20 Grianan Drive, Belmont, Derry Sharon Lowry, 10 Bleach Green, Lane, Dungiven, BT47 4UH Mrs Ursula McCallion, 128 Brookdale Park, Derry, BT48 8LR Mr Martin McAllister, 2 Moyglass Place, Strathfoyle, Derry Mrs Rosemary Quigley, 5 Meenaleck Walk, Shantallow, Derry Lauryn Hamilton, 95 Rossnagalliagh, Derry Mr John Gallagher, 26 Culdaff Gardens, Derry, BT48 9TQ Mr Patrick McDowell, 205 Carnhill, Derry, BT48 8BQ Mr Darren Hogan, 45 Rosemount Avenue, Derry, BT48 0HL Mr Brian Cassidy, 47 Norburgh Park, Foyle Springs, BT48 0RG Mr Arthur Carter, 113 Elmgrove, Derry, BT48 8QE Mrs Mary McCrossan, 69 Academy Road, Derry, BT48 7JY Mr Thomas McCallion, 7 Beechwood Street, Derry, BT48 9LR Mr Donal Dunn, 30 Bloomfield Park, Derry, BT48 8HE Ms Anne Marie Brown, 109 Ardnamoyle Park, Derry, BT48 8HW Mr Conor McAteer, 19 Portlock Place, Derry, BT48 7RN Mrs Elizabeth Harper, 1 Ballynashallog Gardens, Derry, BT48 7SR Mrs Margaret McIntyre, 130 Elmgrove, Derry, BT48 8QE Mr Noel Dalzell, 39 Cromore Gardens, Derry

Grants of Right of Burial in Castlederg Burial Ground Noel William Joseph Baskin, 16A Learmore Road, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7RX

Grants of Right of Burial in Mountcastle Burial Ground Louise Kane, 32 Riverside Park, Altnagelvin, Londonderry, BT47 3RU Sonia Britton, 2 Bessie Bell Court, Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone, BT78 4BT

Grants of Right of Burial in Strabane Burial Ground Ian McElhill, 148 Lower Main Street, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 8BA Lorraine Diver, 49 Townsend Street, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 8HX Gregory McDonnell, 13 St John’s Place, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 8JB Adrian McAneny, 25 Oakland Park, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 9PF Harry Mullen, 300 Victoria Road, Burndennett, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 0AP Caitlin Friel, 3 Tullacorr Drive, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 8LQ

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