SLIGO ANNUAL REPORT 2015

~ 0 ~ Contents Introduction by Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady ...... 2 Members of County Council - 2015 ...... 3 The late Councillor Seamie O’Boyle ...... 4 Strategic Policy Committee Members ...... 5 Housing and Corporate Directorate ...... 6 Housing and Building ...... 7 Corporate Services ...... 14 Human Resources ...... 17 Sligo Library Service and Museum ...... 19 Public Consultation of Ireland 2016 ...... 21 Civil Defence ...... 23 Community and Enterprise ...... 24 Sligo Arts Service ...... 40 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2015 ...... 41 The visit of Prince Charles and his wife Camilla ...... 44 Infrastructure, Environment ...... 46 & Fire Services Directorate ...... 46 Road Transportation and Safety ...... 47 Environmental Services ...... 55 Fire Services ...... 61 Planning, Community & Economic Development Directorate ...... 63 Development Management ...... 64 Enforcement of Planning Control ...... 65 Heritage and Conservation Services ...... 67 Finance ...... 69 Balance Sheet ...... 71 Motor Taxation ...... 72 Appendices ...... 73 Appendix 1 - Staff Retirements in 2015 ...... 73 Appendix 2 - Conferences and Seminars attended by Councillors in 2015 ...... 74

~ 1 ~ Introduction by Cathaoirleach reconciliation process, one that cements the new phase in our relationship, where we Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady bring closure to past events and look to the future with optimism in a genuine spirit of 2015 was another busy friendship.’ and eventful year for , The hosting of the Fleadh and the Royal visit with a number of were hugely significant, memorable occasions important initiatives which attracted intense media interest and a rolled out as we continue major global audience, and I expect there will to provide the optimum be a significant impact on tourism numbers to level of services with the this region arising from these events. resources at our disposal. The Tagore monument in Sligo, which was Over the course of the year I had the privilege unveiled in June 2015, was a generous gift of attending many community events and from the Government of India which will be a hosting receptions at County Hall to honour permanent memorial to the cultural links those individuals and groups who have between our respective countries, exemplified excelled in their particular area. In this by the friendship between the great Indian context I was pleased to revive the poet Rabindanrath Tagore and WB Yeats. Cathaoirleach’s Awards Scheme, and we publicly acknowledged the volunteers who 2015 was still very much a year of transition have made a special contribution in the areas following the many changes introduced to of Arts & Culture, Community, Environment Local Government from the ‘Local & Heritage, Schools, Young Enterprise, Sports Government reform Act 2014; One of the most and a special ‘Spirit of Sligo’ Award. important new functions devolved to Local Authorities is in the area of economic and Another special highlight for me was the community development, and the newly hosting of Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann, the established Local Enterprise offices can be the second successive year Sligo has had an catalyst for the future development and opportunity to stage our largest cultural growth of Sligo and the Northwest. celebration. The pride and enthusiasm which energised the people of Sligo will live long in 2015 was a year of great loss for this Council, the memory, and great credit is due to the with the passing of many dear colleagues, and Fleadh Committee for their meticulous we recall in particular the late Councillor planning and organisation in the months Seamie O’Boyle and the late Padraig Noone. leading up to Fleadh week. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam

The visit of Prince Charles and his wife Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady Camilla was described as ‘A milestone in the Cathaoirleach

~ 2 ~ Members of Sligo County Council - 2015 /Tobercurry Municipal District Martin Baker Dara Mulvey Fianna Fáil 2 Ardkeerin, Riverstown,Co. Sligo. Rockfield, , Co. Sligo. 071-9127472 086-1608334 087-6885050 [email protected] [email protected]

Michael Clarke Joseph Queenan Non Party Fianna Fáil Knocknacullen, Dromore West, Co. Lacknaslieva, , Co. Sligo. Sligo. 096-36449 087-6214422 087-7708691 [email protected] [email protected] Margaret Gormley Non Party Fianna Fáil Carrowloughlin, Bunninadden, Co. Keenaghan, Ballymote, Co. Sligo. Sligo. 087-6803660 071-9183239 086-8394795 [email protected] [email protected] Jerry Lundy Paul Taylor Fianna Fáil Fianna Fáil Rhue, Tobercurry, Co. Sligo 17 Cluain Dara, Gurteen, Co. Sligo. 071-9185184 087-2900947 087-6794509 [email protected] [email protected]

Sligo Municipal District Declan Bree Seán MacManus Independent Sinn Féin 1 High Street, Sligo. 11 The Green, , Co. Sligo. 071-9145490 087-2470802 071-9161460 086-8198456 [email protected] [email protected]

Marie Casserly Tom MacSharry Independent Fianna Fáil Streedagh, Grange, Co. Sligo. Teeling Street, Sligo 086-3182529 087-4163730 [email protected] [email protected]

Thomas Healy Gino O’Boyle (from 14/9/2015) Sinn Féin People Before Profit Largan, Collooney, Co. Sligo. 1 Stephen McDonagh Place, Sligo 086-3666561 086-0757915 [email protected] [email protected]

Hubert Keaney Rosaleen O’Grady Fine Gael Fianna Fáil Drum Road, Rathcormac, Co. Sligo. 2 Kevinsfort, Strandhill Road, Sligo. 071-9141090 087-6892610 086-8060171 [email protected] [email protected]

Seamus Kilgannon Seamie O’Boyle, R.I.P. Fianna Fáil People Before Profit 80 Rathedmond, Sligo. Member of Sligo County Council until 086-8243121 August 2015 [email protected]

Sinéad Maguire Fine Gael 29 The Plains, Strandhill, Co. Sligo. 087-4194039 [email protected]

~ 3 ~ The late Councillor Seamie The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County O’Boyle Council Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady was a close friend who paid tribute to

Seamie for being a ‘committed and It is with shock and hardworking representative for his deep regret that community. He had his roots in one of Sligo ’s oldest communities, and he Council’s elected served them with great distinction. He members and staff will be sorely missed by his family and reacted to the many friends.’ While his main sudden passing of interests were in his beloved Councillor Seamie Northside community, he had a O’Boyle in August, 2015. genuine interest in any project that

was good for Sligo.’ Seamie was elected to Sligo County

Council in 2014 as a People Before As a Councillor Seamie treated Profit representative. He served as everyone, fellow Councillors and Deputy Mayor on the newly members of staff, with the utmost established Sligo Municipal District, courtesy and respect. He took a keen and also served on the board of the interest in a wide range of projects, Model, Sligo Harbour Advisory and he always made an in important Committee and the Regional Health contribution to any discussions in the Forum West. He had a wide range of Council Chamber. He is a great loss to community interests, was involved in this Council, but more importantly, he many voluntary organisations. will be sorely missed as a devoted

husband and father.’ Ar dheis Dé go raibh d’ainm.

~ 4 ~ Strategic Policy Committee Members SPC 1 – Housing and Corporate Services 1. Cllr Dara Mulvey, Chairperson 2. Cllr Declan Bree 3. Cllr Martin Baker 4. Cllr Joe Queenan 5. Cllr Gino O’Boyle 6. Cllr Eamon Scanlon 7. Mr Brendan Henry – Business/Employers 8. Mr Gerry O’Connor – Community/Voluntary 9. Ms Marcella Flanagan – Community/Voluntary 10. Ms Rosaleen Doohan – Social Inclusion

SPC 2 – Environment & Infrastructure 1. Cllr Gerry Lundy, Chairperson 2. Cllr Michael Clarke 3. Cllr Margaret Gormley 4. Cllr Thomas Healy 5. Cllr Hubert Keaney/Cllr Sinead Maguire 6. Cllr Paul Taylor/Cllr Marie Casserly 7. Mr Conor McCarthy – Business/Employers 8. Mr Eddie Davitt – Agricultural/Farming 9. Ms Sharon Eastwood – Environment/Conservation 10. Ms Michelle McMorrow – Community/Voluntary

SPC 3 – Planning, Community & Economic Development, Arts & Culture 1. Cllr Sean MacManus, Chairperson 2. Cllr Marie Casserly 3. Cllr Hubert Keaney 4. Cllr Seamus Kilgannon 5. Cllr Sinead Maguire 6. Cllr Tom MacSharry 7. Cllr Rosaleen O’Grady 8. Cllr Paul Taylor 9. Mr Paul Keyes – Business/Employers 10. Mr Anthony McCormack – Trade Union 11. Mr Gerard Queenan – Agricultural/Farming 12. Ms Sue Mahon – Community/Voluntary 13. Ms Rosaleen Doonan – Social Inclusion

~ 5 ~ HHoouussiinngg aanndd CCoorrppoorraattee DDiirreeccttoorraattee

~ 6 ~ The budget provided for the Housing and Building maintenance and repairs of Local The overall demand for social housing Authority Housing Stock is €715,000. is influenced by a number of factors, The Council prioritises attending to primary amongst these are the repair requests that pose and health or availability of credit, the level of safety risk to the tenant and repair disposable income linked to the requests of the old and those with economic and employment special needs. environment and the availability of alternative accommodation in the Improvements of Local Authority private market to meet their need. Housing Stock  Energy Fabric Upgrades The range of housing options available The Energy Fabric Upgrade to new social housing applicants programme funded by the Department include: of Environment, Heritage and Local • Local Authority owned or Government funds the energy fabric Leased Social Housing upgrades to Local Authority Housing • Housing Assistance Payment Stock. In 2015 the Council carried out • Rental Accommodation Scheme energy upgrades to 540 dwellings at • Voluntary Housing Schemes an approximate cost of €560,000. • Loans  Returning Vacant Social In addition to administering the above Properties to Productive Use housing services the Housing Section The above programme funded by the has been active in the following areas: Department of Environment, Heritage • Estate Management & Local Government enabled the • Improving Housing stock Council to carry out re-letting works to • Homelessness 39 units in 2015 at a cost of • Traveller Accommodation approximately €460,000. • Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People and Housing Assessment People with a Disability and The Social Housing Assessment Mobility Aids Grant Scheme Regulations 2011, as amended, sets out • Housing for persons with a the procedure for assessing disability households who are seeking social • Private Rented Tenancies housing support. The assessment shall Inspections determine if the household is eligible • Tenant Purchase Schemes and in need of social housing support. The Housing (Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs of Local Provisions) Act, 2009 defines social Authority Housing Stock

~ 7 ~ housing support as accommodation the community from residential care, provided under any of the following: in line with Government policy. • Rented Local Authority The Strategy stipulates that a Housing Accommodation. and Disability Steering Group shall be • Rental Accommodation established in each county/city council Scheme. -RAS area. The purpose of these groups will • Approved Housing Bodies (i.e.) be to support and enhance any current Voluntary/Co-Operative local interagency structures that exist. Housing Bodies These groups will facilitate better • Long Term Leasing Initiative coordination and delivery of housing • Housing Assistance Payment and related support services for people with disabilities. During the year the There are currently 1160 households steering committee conducted an approved for social housing support assessment of need which included the with Sligo County Council. needs for people with a disability The Housing Section also offers advice living in congregated settings. on other housing options and supports that households may be eligible to Housing Assistance Payment avail of in lieu of social housing or The implementation of the Housing while they are awaiting a housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is a key allocation such as rent supplement. Government priority and a major pillar of the Social Housing Strategy Allocations 2020. The HAP scheme will bring all The County allocates properties in social housing supports provided by accordance with its “Allocation the State under the aegis of local Scheme” which was adopted by the authorities. To be eligible, households Members in June 2011. A total of 113 must be assessed and approved by LA housing allocations were made. as being qualified for SHS. If eligible and approved for HAP: Disability 1. The LA will pay on behalf of the The Government’s National Housing tenant the monthly rent to the Strategy for People with a Disability landlord, sets key priority actions in the 2. Tenant is required paying a development of guidance to assist in contribution (differential rent streamlining the management of the basis) towards rent to the LA. housing assessment and allocation It will be considered that where HAP process for people with disabilities, is in place that the Housing needs of including those living in the the household is met. Rent community and those transitioning to Supplement is still available from the Dept of Social Protection for people

~ 8 ~ with short term housing need. The While it is the intention that over a two scheme will remove a barrier to year period all rent supplement employment by allowing recipients to applicants and recipients in the remain in the scheme if they gain full- County will be transferred into HAP, time employment. HAP will also this will be done on a phased basis. improve regulation of the rented The go live date in Sligo was the 16th accommodation being supported and November 2015. provide certainty for landlords as regards their rental income. Traveller Accommodation The Traveller Accommodation Programme (TAP) 2014-18 has a focus upon meeting the needs of Traveller families through the provision of capital works on halting sites and the securing of tenancies through RAS, the The statutory pilot for the scheme Approved Housing Bodies and commenced in September 2014 and Council tenancies. In addition some has been introduced incrementally to families will have success accessing 13 local authority areas to date - the private rented sector although Limerick City and County Council; there continues to be difficulties Waterford City and County Council; expressed by Traveller families in Cork, Louth, Kilkenny, South Dublin, accessing rented accommodation in Monaghan, Donegal, Offaly, Carlow, certain areas, which presents an Clare, Tipperary County Councils; and obstacle in meeting housing need and . HAP is also the targets of the TAP. Consideration available to Homeless households is given to the purchase of houses for under the homeless HAP pilot Traveller families in areas of choice managed by the Dublin Region and to meet specific or special needs. Homeless Executive (DRHE), in a shared-service arrangement between The Council continues to work with the four housing authorities in the families in need of accommodation region for which assistance either directly or with Sligo is the lead authority. Traveller Support Group. Over 4,000 HAP tenancies have been set up to date across these local Differential Rent Scheme authority areas. Arrangements are The Council operates a Differential now underway for HAP to become Rents Scheme on the basis that tenants operational in Kildare, Meath, Mayo, are charged a weekly rent in Sligo, Galway County Councils and accordance with their ability to pay. by end 2015. The Council are notified by the

~ 9 ~ Department with regards to the occur the Council has put in place a proposed new rents scheme under commissioned Resettlement Tenancy Section 31 of the Housing Act 2009, as Support and Sustainment Service with amended, it commenced its own rent Focus Ireland. The aim of this service review in 2015 under the existing Rent is to support individuals and scheme with revised rents applicable particularly families who are homeless from 7th March 2016. or at risk of becoming homeless. This service works closely with the Tenant Purchase Homeless services referred to below. The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government Private Rented Accommodation ended the 1995 Tenant Purchase Standards Scheme with effect from the 31st Minimum standards for rental December 2012 with all transactions to accommodation are prescribed by be completed by 31st December 2013. means of Regulations made under The Council awaits the publication of a Section 18 of the Housing new Purchase Scheme under the (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992, Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) updated by the Housing Act 2014. (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2009. The relevant standards are currently Estate Management Programme set out in the Housing (Standards for The Council in managing its housing Rented Houses) Regulations 2008 (S.I. stock uses the resources of its Estate 534/2008) and the Housing (Standards Management Officers, Housing for Rented Houses) (Amendment) Investigation Officer and co-operation Regulations 2009 (S.I. No. 462 of with Residents Associations and An 2009). Síochána to ensure that in so far as All landlords have a legal obligation to possible all Council estates are ensure that their rented properties pleasant and safe areas to reside. comply with the aforementioned All complaints in relation to Anti- Regulations and responsibility for the Social Behavior and Estate enforcement of the Regulations rests Management issues are documented with the relevant local authority. and followed up on in terms of Estate The Council is active in the area of Management polices and strategies. enforcement of the standards in private rented accommodation having Resettlement Tenancy Support & carried out inspections of 804 rented Sustainment dwellings in 2014, and over 419 To minimize the instances of inspections at the end of 2015. homelessness occurring and to assist in cases where homelessness does

~ 10 ~ Cranmore Regeneration Project The inaugural meeting of the Regeneration Steering Group also took place took place in March 2015. The Regeneration Steering group will work with the County Council and the Regeneration Team to oversee the Regeneration Process.

The physical works programme for Building on the feedback from the consisted of Refurbishment of work of the Project in 2014, the Properties and a Sundry Works/Early development of the Regeneration Wins programme. Masterplan continued during 2015. The investment in the social initiatives A wide range of local agencies were such as the Tenancy Support Service, consulted and collaborated in the the Community Warden Scheme, the refinement of the social and economic installation of CCTV, the Sport and strategies. Many initiatives are Recreation Programme, the Cranmore currently underway and a number of co-op, the East Sligo Music Generation new actions have been identified to Programme, the Cranmore Sports & build on the progress achieved to date. Recreation Programme, all focus on the quality of life issues that affect The Design Team currently reviewing people on a daily basis, have been and analyzing the feedback and it is effective in addressing the social issues expected that the Stage 4 reports that undermined estate for years. describing the findings from the public exhibition and the social and economic Application was made earlier in 2015, actions will be delivered shortly. to the Department of the Environment, Further information sessions will be community and Local Government to held later this year, with the fund a number of new initiatives in Community and the Steering Group to 2015. Approval was received and all consider and discuss the of the projects listed are underway at recommendations of the Design Team present. for the final Masterplan. Examples of some of these are It is expected that the Masterplan will  Age Friendly Cranmore be completed early in 2016. When  Tenancy Sustainment Project completed, it will be brought before  History & Heritage Group Sligo County Council for  Sports Initiative consideration.

~ 11 ~  Breakfast Club enhances our sense of well- being and confidence. This initiative was Other work of the Regeneration Project inspired and driven by the local Office community, it has brought benefits to  Liaising with other agencies all walks of life, and I would like to through regular development pay tribute to the many coaches, meetings, volunteers and mentors who have  Liaising with CLUID, FOCUS been at the heart of this project.’ Ireland, Family Resource House,  Contribution to the LCDC process,  Estate Management Activities,  Production of Newsletters,  Promotion of Regeneration Project through Media & Website,  Recoupment and Allocation of Funding Homelessness During 2015 Sligo County Council ‘Regeneration Through Sport’ continued to embrace the Department Initiative Policy set down in relation to In March 2015, Sligo County Council Homeless Prevention and supports launched an ‘Evaluation Report on the and offer supports to those who find Cranmore Regeneration Through themselves in this situation. Over 2013 Sport Initiative’ . In attendance were and 2014 the Council has taken the the Cathaoirleach and Chief Executive, opportunity to review the many President of IT Sligo, President services provided locally to those who Vincent Cunnane, Chairperson of Sligo find themselves homeless or at risk of Sport & Recreation Partnership, Maura becoming homeless. McCallion, and author of the Report Services are available at the following Dr Carol Moran. locations: The Cathaoirleach said it was an  Maryville, Finisklin (Sligo Social important day for the local Services Council Ltd) – community; ‘The report we are Capacity of 10 beds in main launching today confirms the hugely house and 4 x 1 bed units to positive impact sport has in people’s rear. lives. Becoming involved in a pattern  Ballytivnan (Sligo Social of recreation and sporting activity not Services Council Ltd) - capacity only increases levels of fitness, it 5 beds

~ 12 ~  Shalomar (Finisklin Housing approach whereby homeless persons Ltd) - capacity to provide total should be accommodated in the first no of beds of 21, comprising of instance in suitable accommodation 17 in main house and 4 x 1 bed with or without supports rather than units to rear in so- called expensive emergency  Provision of 23 units of accommodation. This has proven very transitional supported housing effective in Sligo County Council. at Citygate.  2 units for families requiring Housing Capital Programme intensive supports under SLA The Social Housing Strategy was with Focus Ireland. launched by Government in late 2014.  Assistance is also provided in It supports the vision that every certain instances for deposits , B household should have access to & B accommodation where secure, good quality housing suited to absolutely necessary and their needs at an affordable price and sleeping bags as part of the in a sustainable community. Severe Weather Initiative. The Department notified the Council Sligo continues to be the lead authority of its target for delivery of units under for the North West Region responsible the programme in the period 2015 to for budget management and the co- 2017 as follows: ordination of funding for the region. The North West region’s allocated  Current & Capital Targets of 301 budget towards the cost of homeless units of accommodation, with services in 2015 was €414,620 with estimated cost of delivery at each authority continuing to provide €20.2m for 10% of expenditure from within its  This further breaks down into a own resources. target of 101 units under the Sligo County Council’s Homeless Capital Programme which covers Action Team (HAT) which was set up Construction, Acquisition, Part V, in November 2013 meets on a Capital Assistance Schemes and fortnightly basis to assess individual Void properties. cases and adopt approaches to best  Together with a target of 200 units support and assist homeless under the Current/RAS/Leasing individuals or those at risk of programme including leasing becoming homeless and put in place through approved housing bodies. support services for them. This case management approach is key to This is a welcome announcement for achieving the principle contained in Sligo and every effort will be made to national policy of a housing led achieving the target as a minimum

~ 13 ~ subject availability of supply of quality and for a number of reasons, 28 units in the private sector and transfers have also been granted obtaining approval of the Department during the year taking the activity to to Capital Schemes progress 98 contracts. It is expected that the particularly those with higher land activity in RAS will reduce with the costs. commencement of HAP.

Leasing Housing Loans The Council has a total of 39 houses Applicants may be considered for leased under the Long Term Leasing house purchase loans who did not Scheme in Sligo city and county. Sligo previously own a dwelling and who County Council hopes to increase this have been refused by a Bank/Building figure in 2016 with special emphasis Society. The Housing (Local Authority on the high demands areas in Sligo Loans) Regulations 2009 set out the city and surrounding hinterland. requirements and process for the approval of loans by a Local Approved Housing Bodies Authority. The Council in partnership with Approved Housing Bodies considers Housing Grant ways of meeting the needs of specific The Allocation under this heading for target groups such as disability, 2015 was €531,063 (100%). homeless and the elderly by way of capital funded schemes or Leasing. The three applicable schemes are as listed below: RAS Programme  Housing Adaptation Grant Scheme The Rental Accommodation for People with a Disability. Programme assists households who  Mobility Aids Housing Grant are in receipt of Rent Supplement for Scheme. more than 18 months and who have  Scheme of Housing Aid for Older been assessed by the Housing People. Authority as having a long-term The Grants scheme remained for 2015 housing need (excluding asylum with all applications for assistance to seekers or other non-nationals who do those with Disability, Mobility and the not have leave to remain in the State Elderly being accepted and processed. permanently). Corporate Services In 2015, over 50 new contracts were Corporate Services includes a range secured in Sligo County Council. of important functions, including There were also 20 contracts renewed administration of Council and after their initial 4 year period expired Municipal District meetings, providing support for elected

~ 14 ~ members, preparation of the register consensus that Sligo has the capacity of electors, administration of higher and will to deliver in a number of education grants, the provision of strategically important areas, and Sligo Information Services, administration County Council will be driving this of Freedom of Information system, endeavour with ambition and and the delivery of customer purpose. services. The outstanding success of Fleadh Sligo County Council Draft 2014, which attracted over 300,000 Corporate Plan 2015-2019 visitors, provided invaluable Section 134 of the Local Government marketing opportunities, showcasing Act 2001, amended by Section 49 of the the many outstanding scenic and Local Government Reform Act 2014, cultural attractions of our wonderful obliges Local Authorities to prepare a county. It was also an example of our corporate Plan ‘prepared on the basis ability to work alongside and energise of an organisational wide strategic the local community and the business approach encompassing the various sector, who share our resolve to activities of the local authority capitalise on our county’s enormous concerned.’ tourism potential. Local Government is in a process of The Plan was adopted by the Council transition, but the local authority at its meeting in April 2015. In their remains the ‘arm’ of government joint introduction, the Cathaoirleach closest to the people. The spirit and and Chief Executive set out the context drive of our local communities provide for the Plan: a robust platform to build for the ‘While the model of Local Government future, and this Council is committed has changed, the primary objective to working alongside our communities remains the same – to plan and deliver and key partner agencies for the the optimum level of services with the benefit of people who live, work or available resources. invest in our county.’

An important element in delivering The Corporate Plan can be accessed by this goal is the process of meaningful clicking on the image below. engagement with all stakeholders, to work in active and dynamic partnership on behalf of the people of County Sligo.

While all Local Authorities are facing enormous challenges, there is a strong

~ 15 ~ Higher Education Grants the Local Elections held in May, 2014 In the academic year 2014/2015 Sligo 8 No. Members were elected to the County Council assisted 20 students Municipal District of Ballymote- with the award of a Higher with 10 No. Members Education Grant. All were renewal elected to the Municipal District of students whom qualified for student Sligo. grant together with fees for continuing their studies at higher Sligo County Council prepares the education level. Register of Electors annually and as always a major effort was made to The student grant application achieve the highest possible degree process was centralised nationally in of accuracy and comprehensiveness recent years, and all new in compiling the Register. On the applications are now made through final Register for 2015/2016, 52,429 the online student grant application electors were registered. You can facility. Student Universal Support check the register online by visiting Ireland (SUSI) accept all new student http://www.checktheregister.ie. grant applications including applications from existing students In 2015 a landmark Referendum was changing their courses or held on 22nd May, 2015 in relation to progressing to new courses (be they Marriage Equality. Ireland became the add-on courses or otherwise) in the first country in the world to bring in 2016/2017 academic year. Sligo same-sex marriage by a popular vote. County Council continues to process A total of 1,201,607 people (62.1%) renewal applications for students to voted Yes and 734,300 (37.9%) voted whom they are already paying No. The total poll was just under two grants until those students have million. completed their current courses. In 2016 the number of students will be Information Services, Customer significantly reduced. Services and Freedom of Information The Information Services Office provides information services to the Register of Electors Elected Members, staff, media and Since the publishing of the 2013 general public, as well as providing Boundary administrative support to the Committee report, County Sligo has Cathaoirleach. The office also been divided into two electoral areas administers Freedom of Information (previously five), Ballymote- requests and monitors and updates Tubbercurry and Sligo. Following our websites in conjunction with IT

~ 16 ~ Section, and coordinates the Human Resources placement of advertisements in The Human Resources Department relation to Sligo County Council. looks after all staffing related matters in Sligo County Council, (e.g.) Customer Services recruitment, training, maintenance of Sligo County Council expects its personnel records, industrial relations, services to be appraised to the superannuation, etc. It is also highest standards, and the Customer responsible for implementing Service Desk enables the authority to statutory and non-statutory staff provide a professional, customer- welfare policies and procedures and focused service. The ‘Desk’ provides maintains stable industrial relations. a first point of contact for visitors to The HR Department works to create County Hall, or people who e-mail an equitable, consultative and or phone the Council. supportive working environment within Sligo County Council. Website Sligo County Council’s website Staff Recruitment (www.sligococo.ie) provides up to The Council has only been in a date information and online services. position to undertake limited Many of the main service areas, recruitment of staff in recent years due including Finance and Motor Tax, to the moratorium on recruitment in enable customers to transact their the public service. However, the HR business online. Information Department did process applications Services works with the Information for various positions during 2015. Technology Section to monitor, Vacancies for open posts were review and update the Council advertised in the local and/or national website on a regular basis. press and also on the Sligo County You can also keep up to date with Council and Local Government Jobs Council alerts, press releases, websites. In total, 12 recruitment upcoming events abd public competitions were held during the announcements by following year and 27 persons were appointed, @sligococo on Twitter. 20 of which were filled by open competition. Emergency alerts Information Services works with the Internship Scheme IT Section to prepare and issue ‘out On 1 July 2011, the Government of office’ emergency alerts, launched a new National Internship particularly in relation to roads and Scheme as part of its jobs initiative water services. programme. Sligo County Council continues to facilitate Internship

~ 17 ~ placements under the National Scheme between the HR Department and as a Host Organisation and facilitated Union representatives/officials. The a total of 4 interns in 2015. Council is committed to resolving IR issues as soon as possible once an issue Gateway arises in an open and co-operative Gateway is a Government labour manner. activation scheme introduced in 2014. The scheme offers persons on long Workforce Planning term (2 years) Social Welfare payment Sligo County Council’s Draft Work 22 months employment with Local Force Plan for the period 2015 – 2019 Authorities. Local Authorities employ was prepared as recommended in the candidates on 19.5 hour per week Transition Framework Guidance contracts. Sligo County Council was issued by the re-organisation Advisory set a target of employing 55 persons on Group (July 2013) and in accordance this scheme. By the end of 2015, Sligo with the recommendations of the County Council had employed 53 Workforce Planning Group (2012). persons on this scheme. The Management Team together with Section Heads analysed existing Retirements staffing levels across all grades in the During 2015, a total of 16 staff retired existing departmental structure and from the service of Sligo County having regard to the reduction in Council. (See Appendix 1). Directorates, also considered necessary re-alignment of Directorate functions Training and Development as a result of the amalgamation of Sligo County Council is dedicated to Sligo County Council and Sligo providing relevant Training to all staff Borough Council as provided for in within its resources. Training activity the Local Government Reform Act in 2015 particularly focused on Health 2014. This analysis included an & Safety. Funding for training was examination of the age profile of the also made available to the Council organisation and a review of Acting under the headings of Non-National Posts, staff numbers and structures for Roads Grant, Water Services Grant each service area, gaps arising during and Environmental Grant and these the life of the Plan, etc. The were expended on relevant courses for finalisation of the Workforce Plan was staff working in those areas. deferred in 2015 pending the outcome of engagements with the Department Industrial Relations in relation to a 5 year Financial Plan to It is the policy of the Human address the Council’s financial Resources Department to foster a good situation. A review of the Draft industrial relations climate and, in this Workforce Plan and consultations with regard, regular meetings take place

~ 18 ~ Trade Unions is to take place taking Sligo is in phase three for the account of the final agreed Financial implementation of the National Plan. Library Management System which is scheduled to commence in October Staff Welfare 2016. In order to continue to provide The Human Resources Department is funding for the change over to the responsible for formulating and single library management system in implementing a range of policies and 2016 the library estimates has made a support mechanisms to help staff provision of €10,000 towards ongoing manager their work-life balance. The preparatory work for the upgrade. In HR Department manages the Sick order to achieve a standard approach Leave Scheme and provides employee to the implementation of the LMS all assistance when required, with the charges nationally are to be services of a full-time Staff Welfare assimilated. Officer available to all staff. In 2015 the Council also entered into an Open Libraries agreement with Health Assured to In 2014, an 'Open Libraries' initiative deliver Employee Assistance to all was piloted in Co. Sligo, offering staff as required. seven day opening from eight in the morning until ten at night. An Details of all family friendly policies innovative service, Open Libraries are available on the Council’s intranet grants members the freedom to use the and many staff avails of these policies, library at the hours that suit them best. which include Shorter Working Year During the extended hours, the Scheme, Parental Leave Scheme, Work services are available to the public on a Sharing Scheme, Career Breaks, Force self-service basis for borrowing and Majeure Scheme, Compassionate returning items, using the internet via Leave and Maternity & Paternity library PCs or via Wi-Fi using their Leave. own devices, browsing, printing, photocopying, individual study and Cycle to Work Scheme community activities and meetings. Sligo County Council also promotes During extended hours, users gain the Cycle to Work Scheme. In 2015, access to the library via an automated the Council assisted 8 employees to system by using their unique purchase bicycles under this Scheme. membership card and an authorised pin number. Membership is confined Sligo Library Service and to adults 18 years + for the purposes of Museum the pilot. At scheduled times; library staff continue to provide expert and Library Management System additional services, support users and

~ 19 ~ develop community engagement and programming. Reading and Literacy Programmes Sligo Library services will continue to roll out its programme of reading initiatives and support for The Right to Read policy throughout County Sligo in partnership with the education sector. The 2016 funding requirement is estimated at €10,000.

Europe Direct Councillor Dara Mulvey tries out the new Open Library system with County Librarian, The EDIC based in Tubbercurry Donal Tinney. Library goes from strength to strength as the Information Centre fulfils its The Open Libraries pilot is operated role throughout Mayo, Sligo and from the Branch Library in Teach Leitrim. In 2015 an exciting and Laighne, Tubbercurry and to date has broadly themed programme of events proven to be very successful with over and activities were held in libraries in 250 members at present. There is a Sligo such as lectures and debating need to promote the concept of Open competitions, events for new Libraries to the general public and a communities all of which were highly need to actively target members as the successful in promoting the centre idea of the Open Libraries is relatively throughout 2015. Funding of €24,000 new to the general public in Ireland. annually is provided from the EU to To this end a marketing budget of cover the cost of the EDIC. €1,000 is included in the book of estimates. Museum The number of visitors to Sligo Book Fund Museum continues to grow and this Funding for the provision of books for year so far over 12,000 visitors have Sligo’s Libraries has been severely been recorded. The continuing curtailed in recent years due to the programming of exhibitions and the Council’s financial constraints. €50,000 improvements in opening hours have was provided for in 2015. It is in the main contributed tremendously proposed to increase the Book Fund to to the increase. €60,000 for 2016. Included in the draft Budget for 2016 is €8,000 to provide In celebration of the 100th anniversary online materials such as eBooks and e- of the Easter Rising in 2016, Sligo magazines which are procured Museum will commission an centrally. exhibition on the role played by

~ 20 ~ Sligonians in the Rising. The The national programme, which was exhibition will run from June to announced by the government in October 2016. March 2015, included seven strands; State Ceremonial; Historical Archives Reflection; An Teanga Bheo/The The ongoing work on the records of Living Language; Youth and Sligo County Council will continue in Imagination; Cultural Expression; 2016 as work continues in the Old Community Participation; Global and Gaol on conservation and indexing of Diaspora. material. The main deliverable for 2016 will be the re-housing of the The Community Participation strand is records held in the Old Gaol to new being led by local authorities across premises. the country and Sligo County Council has appointed Donal Tinney as local Public Consultation of Ireland co-ordinator who will be responsible 2016 for coordinating the local programme.

Sligo County Council hosted a series Speaking at the announcement of the of meetings in April 2015 for anyone local meeting, Chief Executive, Ciarán interested in participating in the Hayes said “Ireland 2016, as a year of development and delivery of Sligo’s reflection and engagement for local programme, as part of Ireland everyone on this island, goes far 2016. beyond the formal marking of a key historical moment. It is a once-in-a- century invitation to people of all ages, at home and overseas, to shape and take part in a diverse range of historical, cultural and artistic activities, all designed to nurture reflection, commemoration, celebration and debate. There is a wealth of imagination, energy and Ireland 2016 is a year-long programme vision available to us in County Sligo of activity, in which everyone is and I want to encourage everyone to invited to participate, to commemorate get involved in their own way so we the events of the 1916 Rising, to reflect can make Ireland 2016 a truly national on our achievements as a democratic event.” state over the last 100 years and to look towards Ireland’s future.

~ 21 ~ Background information Phiarsaigh, the Tenement Museum, The Ireland 2016 Centenary Kilmainham Gaol and Courthouse, the Programme was launched by An National Concert Hall and the Military Taoiseach Enda Kenny on Tuesday 31st Service Pensions Archive. March 2015 at Collins Barracks, Dublin. A national initiative, based 2. Historical Reflection - A range of within the Department of Arts, history-based activities and initiatives Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Ireland will include a series of conferences on 2016 is the centre-piece of the ‘Decade various elements of 1916 at our of Centenaries’. universities; the National Library of Ireland will run a major digitisation The Programme is an invitation to all project making over 20,000 items of the people on the island of Ireland, linked to the Rising available online; to families and people of Irish ancestry the Library will also hold community living abroad, who share our cultural collection days for privately held 1916 identity and heritage, and all of memorabilia; the National Archives is Ireland’s friends, to participate in an publishing secret files compiled by the intensive year of remembrance of the Dublin Metropolitan Police during past, of reflection on our achievements 1916; a commemorative avenue of and of re-imagining our Republic for trees will be planted in the Phoenix future generations. Park; An Post will issue 16 commemorative stamps which, when The Programme of events and scanned using a Smartphone app, will initiatives comprises Seven Strands: link to interactive material on the 1. State Ceremonial - Formal Rising; the Central Bank will issue commemorative events include a commemorative coins. parade from Dublin Castle, down 3. An Teanga Bheo - The Living O’Connell Street to Parnell Square on Language - The central place of the Easter Sunday 2016; a special State Irish language in the ideals of the Reception for 1916 Relatives; an event revolutionary generation will be to highlight the significant role of reflected in a diverse programme of women in 1916; synchronised wreath events and activities in Irish, including laying ceremonies on Easter Monday a digitisation programme, lectures, marking the time when the first shots debates, seminars, online learning were fired; an event at Liberty Hall to resources and arts events. commemorate James Connolly. Official openings will also take place at 4. Youth and Imagination - A the seven flagship commemorative detailed education programme, to projects - the GPO Interpretative extend from primary to university Centre, Richmond Barracks, Teach an level, will place children and young

~ 22 ~ people at the centre of Ireland 2016. It international classics and has also includes ‘Proclamation for a New commissioned a series of new plays Generation’ which will encourage from young Irish playwrights. students to examine the Proclamation and to write their own version to 6. Community Participation - Local reflect their values; an inter- Authorities are working with Ireland generational ancestry project; 2016 to develop commemorative ‘Proclamation Day’ will take place in events and activities in every county all educational settings in March 2016; across the country and to encourage a teaching resource will be developed widespread citizen engagement; the on the National Flag, and a flag will be GAA is getting involved through its delivered to every school in the clubs network; the Heritage Council is country by the Defence Forces; a new facilitating local events and regional Leaving Certificate subject – ‘Politics museums are planning 1916 themed and Society’ – will be rolled out on a exhibitions. trial basis; children aged 8-17 will be consulted on the theme of ‘Imagining 7. Global and Diaspora - Ireland our Future’, which will form the basis 2016 is inviting the global Irish family of a Children’s Day event, which will from all over the world to join us in also commemorate the children killed remembering, reflecting and re- during the Rising. imagining. Our diplomatic missions are working with Culture Ireland to 5. Cultural Expression - The Arts develop significant events in the US, Council and our National Cultural the UK, Australia, Argentina, France Institutions have developed an and many other countries. A three extensive programme of arts and week Irish culture festival will be held culture events. The Arts Council, for in Washington; the Irish Embassy in example, has issued an open call for London will stage a flagship event in large scale public arts projects; it will one of London’s main cultural venues also stage a large scale choral event, and a series of academic conferences involving a high number of choirs examining the impact of the Rising are from across the country and there will planned in Australia. be a national touring theatre programme; the National Concert Hall Civil Defence will stage a series of seven concerts Civil Defence under the leadership of over Easter Week 2016, arranged the Civil Defence Officer has 84 active around the key themes of the volunteer members and 6 training Proclamation and its signatories; the centres throughout the County and Abbey Theatre will stage new train in many skills in order to be in a productions of national and position to provide a response to the 3

~ 23 ~ Primary Response Agencies in an promotes volunteerism, promotes and emergency situation. The Civil active citizenship including the youth Defence also provided very valuable sector and provides a range of service to the community by providing supports and grant aid to a myriad of first aid cover for their events which organisations throughout the County. numbered 130 for the year. In 2015, Sligo Civil Defence were Local Community Development activated to assist all three Primary Committee (LCDC) response agencies as follows: The Sligo LCDC was established in 2014 under the Local Government  We assisted the HSE by providing the medical cover required for the All Ireland Fleadh which Sligo hosted in August with circa 450,000 people attended over an 8 day period.

 We also provided assistance to the Local Authority during the severe Reform 2014 Act for the purposes of flooding that hit the area. developing, co-ordinating and implementing a coherent and  We provided assistance to An integrated approach to local and Garda Síochána in the search for a community development. The missing person in Sligo Town. committee is made up of representatives from the local Budget for Civil Defence was €123,000 government and local development which is grant aided by the sectors, public bodies and Department of Defence. representatives of social, economic, environmental and community interests. Community and Enterprise

Community and Economic The focus of the work of Sligo Local Development Community Development Committee The Community & Economic is to initiate the implementation and Development section supports inter- monitoring of the various actions in agency strategic collaborative work the Local Economic and Community with other organisations on a local and Plan 2015-2021. Key elements include regional level in promoting and maximising opportunities for Sligo out encouraging community and economic of European funding, promoting development within the County. It investment in Sligo and establishing supports community organisations, structures to ensure better

~ 24 ~ collaboration at a county level, in particular an Economic Development Forum and Tourism Forum. Actions are focused on enhancing the strategic capacity at a county level by ensuring research base to support collective action in relation to economic and community development. This to include the organisation of an annual Community and Economic Conference to discuss the development of the County, the implementation of the LECP and to reaffirm inter-sectoral commitment to collaborative action and to share ideas and learning on how to best improve the quality of life in the County. Other initiatives will include supporting the development of a Sligo Diaspora Network to create mutually beneficial linkages with the international Sligo Community and examining how we can make Sligo a more child Friendly environment.

The LCDC is also responsible for monitoring the delivery of the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme and acts as the Local Action Group for the delivery of the Rural Development Programme in Sligo.

~ 25 ~ Address by Councillor consultation, analysis, numerous Sean MacManus, workshops and strategic planning Chairperson of County meetings. Sligo LCDC at presentation of Draft This Plan identifies specific, key Local Economic and Community Plan actions across a wide range of to Sligo Municipal Council. economic and community activity; it suggests realistic goals and sets out I do not think it is over-stating the how they can be achieved. A key relevance of the Draft Local Economic ambition which has guided this and Community Plan to say that it is process is to ‘promote and develop one of the most significant documents Sligo as the economic driver of the to be brought before Sligo County North-West, and as an attractive Council in recent years. The recent location for investment, tourism, changes in Local Government have commerce, entrepreneurship and devolved a number of important employment.’ responsibilities to local authorities, including the promotion of both local Each of these areas are hugely economic and community important in their own right, development. collectively they represent a very positive blueprint for the future of our Economic development or community county in the areas of economic and enhancement cannot happen in a community development. vacuum, it requires a strategic vision to give focus and direction to our Individuals, agencies and groups agreed objectives. To make a simple involved in economic activity or comparison, our County Development community endeavour should Plan provides the context for all familiarise themselves with the Plan, planning activities in the county, and particularly in the context of funding the level of research, consultation and applications, as the Plan will be the debate during its preparation, reference points for assessing highlights its importance. applications for grant assistance for economic or community development. Similarly, the process of preparing the Draft Local and Economic and The various aspirations set out in the Community Plan has involved Plan can be summarised in one over- extensive engagement with all riding objective. ‘To promote the well- stakeholders who share our being and quality of life of citizens and commitment to the betterment of Co communities’, and I think this is an Sligo. It represents the end product of ideal we can all readily subscribe to eighteen months work involving and support. extensive research, public

~ 26 ~ Joint Policing Committee: objectives, we have to harness the Promoting consultation and collective intelligence, acumen and co-operation in policing. experience of the committee members. The Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides Our task is to see how we can develop for the establishment of a Joint a six year Strategy and an Annual Plan Policing Committee in each Local which include objectives derived from Authority. The purpose of the Joint the Annual Policing Plans, linked in to Committee is to develop greater the relevant objectives in the Draft consultation, co-operation and Local Economic and Community Plan accountability between An Garda of Sligo County Council and the JPC Síochána, Local Authorities and Guidelines, which will enable us to elected members, with the promote local and community participation of the Community and development.” voluntary sector, on the management of policing issues. Revised Guidelines The Cathaoirleach anticipated a busy governing the operation of Joint work programme for the Committee Policing Committees were issued in and noted that “We have to set August, 2014. realistic objectives for meaningful actions through collaboration with In accordance with the Guidelines, the local communities and structures on Joint Policing Committee will consist matters affecting the policing of this of 28 members, i.e. 13 elected county. The new committee has members of the Council, 5 renewed its commitment to members, 2 Local Authority Officials, collaborative efforts to supporting 2 nominees of the Garda policing and to enhance community Commissioner, and 6 Community safety.” nominees. A Steering Group was established to The first meeting of the Joint Policing oversee this process, consisting of the Committee (JPC) was held in the Chief Executive of the County Council, Radisson Blu Hotel, Sligo on 18th Mr Ciarán Hayes, a representative of December. At this meeting, Councillor An Garda Síochána and the Rosaleen O’Grady was elected Chairperson of the JPC. This group Chairperson of the Committee, and in will be assisted by the JPC secretariat her opening remarks she highlighted provided by the Council, and they will the importance of continued develop a process to harness all of the cooperation between the local views and aspirations from the various authority and An Garda Síochána in organisations. It is intended to housing, policing and special events. provide supports for the JPC members She stated that “To achieve our in terms of training and workshops.

~ 27 ~ JPC Membership

Local Authority Elected Members - Cllr Rosaleen O’Grady, Chairperson - Cllr Eamon Scanlon - Cllr Paul Taylor - Cllr Jerry Lundy - Cllr Martin Baker - Cllr Hubert Keaney - Cllr Dara Mulvey, Vice Chairperson - Cllr Marie Casserly - Cllr Thomas Healy - Cllr Gino O’Boyle - Cllr Margaret Gormley - Cllr Michael Clarke - Cllr Sean MacManus

Oireachtas Elected Members - Senator Marc Mac Sharry - Fianna Fáil - Senator Susan O’Keefe - The - Deputy Tony McLoughlin TD - Fine Gael

Local Authority Official members - Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive - Margaret McConnell, Senior Executive Officer

An Garda Síochána members (2) 2 members appointed directly by the Garda Commissioner: - Chief Superintendent Clancy - Superintendent Murray

PPN Community Members (6) - Vanessa Clarke - David Tuffy - Patrick Benson - Tom Mc Gettrick - Pat Conway - Alan Mc Menamin

~ 28 ~ SICAP Rural Development Programme SICAP (Social The Sligo Local Community Inclusion and Development Committee will be the Community Local Action Group (LAG) for the Activation delivery of the Rural Development Programme) is Programme (RDP/LEADER) working a national in partnership with LAG Partners programme Sligo County Council and Sligo which aims to LEADER Partnership Company. tackle poverty and social exclusion RDP/LEADER supports the delivery through local engagement and of local development actions in rural partnership between disadvantaged communities and has formed part of individuals, community organisations EU rural development funding and public sector agencies and supports since 1991. operates across the . The Local Community The key themes for RDP/ LEADER Development Committees manages 2014-2020 are: SICAP at a local level with support from Pobal and funding from the 1. Rural Economic Development / Department of Environment, Enterprise Development and Job Community and Local Government. Creation - Rural Tourism - Enterprise The SICAP Programme commenced Development - Broadband - Rural on 1st April 2014 and will continue Towns until 2017, subject to satisfactory review by the LCDC. Sligo LEADER 2. Social inclusion through building Partnership Company has been community capacity, training and contracted to deliver the programme animation - Basic Services for hard to on behalf of Sligo LCDC. The SICAP reach communities - Rural Youth programme itself involves the provision developmental support for 3. Rural Environment - A cross cutting marginalized groups and requirement for all LEADER disadvantaged communities. Sligo interventions - Targeting multiple County Council staff are responsible environmental objectives including the for administration of the contract and protection and sustainable use of the preparation of monitoring and water resources, the protection and oversight reports on behalf of the improvement of biodiversity and the LCDC. development of renewable energy.

~ 29 ~ 4. Support for Food Producers an existing one. It provides an integrated support service centred on An allocation was made to Sligo, the needs of small businesses from the subject to the submission of a Council’s offices in City Hall. satisfactory Local Development Supports provided include training, Strategy. Sligo County Council is the mentoring, financial assistance, advice, Lead financial partner for the Local counselling and promotion of an Action Group and responsible for the enterprise culture (including through financial administration of the programmes run in schools). It also programme at a local level. assists broader economic development through for example the advancement Public Participation Network (PPN) of tourism, city centre developmental The Local Government Reform Act activities, membership of relevant local 2014 provides for the adoption of a development bodies, etc. It provides a Framework for Public Participation in key role in signposting clients to the Local Government which will set out Council’s other business-related the mechanisms by which citizens and services and to business-related communities will be encouraged and services operated by other agencies. supported to participate in the decision - making processes of local The Local Enterprise Office is also authorities. involved in driving a number of Government initiatives locally. For In order to support the ongoing example, it is heavily involved with development of the Sligo Public the Department of Communications, Participation Network it is proposed to Energy and Natural Resources in the provide ongoing support to strengthen delivery of its ICT vouchers the capacity of the community and programme and in the delivery of the voluntary sector in Sligo including the Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur Environmental and Social Inclusion Programme on behalf of the Minister groups. This will be achieved through for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. A capacity building measures, training significant element of its funding is and the support of key structures such provided by the Department of Jobs, as the PPN secretariat and the various Enterprise and Innovation and linkages groups established to feed channelled through Enterprise Ireland, into various aspects of policy making. which also provides key back-up expertise and assistance. Local Enterprise Office The Local Enterprise Office is the first- Sligo’s Best Young Entrepreneurs stop-shop for those entrepreneurs Three of the county’s best young starting a small business or expanding entrepreneurs won a total investment

~ 30 ~ of €50,000 through the Local Enterprise Office Sligo, as part of the All local winners will now represent €2 million Ireland’s Best Young Sligo at the regional finals in Carrick- Entrepreneur competition (#IBYE). on-Shannon on 27th October. A total Aimed at young and aspiring of 24 finalists will then compete at the entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur and 30, Ireland’s Best Young National Finals in December. Entrepreneur competition is an integral part of the Action Plan for The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Jobs and is supported by the Council, Cllr. Rosaleen O’Grady said, Department of Jobs, Enterprise and “The competition’s overall aim is to Innovation through the network of 31 stimulate and promote local youth Local Enterprise Offices. entrepreneurship in particular and spread the message to the young and At a ceremony in City Hall in October indeed the not so young that 2015, awards were made for Sligo best entrepreneurship and self- start-up, best new idea, and best employment are real options. They existing business, as well as an overall are challenging ones, very often award for the best young entrepreneur demanding long hours of hard work to in the county. bring an idea to fruition and to achieve business success. Businesses can, and  The local winners and investments do on occasion fail but, more often, won were as follows: they succeed . Business success brings Best New Idea (winning a €10,000 with it not just a means to make a investment) - Amr Dawood, Loyee living but also a sense of from Ballisodare accomplishment and pride for the  Best Start-Up (winning a €20,000 entrepreneur. Business success also investment) - John Divers (Movers & brings local jobs. It helps to sustain Makers) from Sligo. communities. For a select and indeed  Best Established Business (winning a growing cohort it brings the €20,000 investment) - Rhona Togher opportunity to become established in (Restored Hearing) from Shannon national, European and world-wide Eighter. markets and we have many fine  Rhona Togher, from Restored Hearing examples of such business persons was also named as Sligo’s “Best Young here in Sligo.” Entrepreneur”.

~ 31 ~ John Reilly, from the Local Enterprise  existing businesses with a new idea Office Sligo, paid tribute to all the  people overseas (including Irish young entrepreneurs in the region, emigrants) who will headquarter in saying “As the first stop shop for Ireland entrepreneurs and small businesses, it is heartening to see a growing and The competition is broken down into vibrant community of young three categories: entrepreneurs locally. Through  Best New Idea (pre-trading), with Business Bootcamps, mentoring and €10,000 investment prize fund general business advice, the Local available through every LEO Enterprise Office plays a vital role in  Best Start up Business (up to 24 supporting the next generation of months), with €20,000 investment entrepreneurs, on a year-round basis. prize fund available through every We will also be working closely with LEO this year’s IBYE winners, to help  Best Established Business (over 24 maximise the return on the investment months) with €20,000 investment prize that they have been awarded.” fund available through every LEO

This year’s judging panel were also Tourism Development thanked during the ceremony for their 2015 was a strong year for tourism in role in the competition and members Sligo. The importance of the tourism included John Reilly (LEO Sligo), Síle sector to Sligo cannot be overstated. Haran (Sligo Tourism) and Geraldine The continuing investment in tourism Reynolds (LEO Leitrim). infrastructure and the growth in visitor numbers acts as an economic Details around Ireland’s Best Young driver to the region, while also Entrepreneur competition are reinforcing important social and available through www.ibye.ie and cultural benefits locally. information on supports for all small businesses can be accessed through Festivals & Events www.localenterprise.ie. Many festival events that took place during the year delivered significant Background additional numbers of visitors to the Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur is a county and region. Sligo County competition that is open to everyone Council would have been to the fore in with an innovative business idea supporting and assisting the including: organisers in their efforts. Among  individuals them included the successful Yeats  venture teams 2015 annual programme of events,  partnerships Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Sligo Live,

~ 32 ~ the Yeats Tread Softly festival in combination with International Yeats Summer School, An Post Tour of Sligo, Heritage Week, Sligo Summer Festival, Christmas Fayre, International Choral Festival, Strandhill Warrior’s Run, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day and Mullaghmore has ‘Signature Enniscrone Black Pig Festival, to Discovery Point’ status, allied to its mention but a few. Events are proven spectacular seascape backdrop, ‘Big to attract visitors to the region and Wave’ surfing phenomenon, many will continue into 2016. Classibawn Castle and Ben Bulben mountain backdrop. Improvements Wild Atlantic Way will continue at these locations to The successful rollout of the Wild ensure the visitor experience is Atlantic Way is another key milestone, consistent with other WAW locations. with improved visitor numbers For more information about Wild attracted to the area, as a result. Sligo Atlantic Way, click on the logo above. has seven Discovery Points along the route; Enniscrone, Easkey, Aughris, Strandhill, Rosses Point, Streedagh and Mullaghmore.

Stunning Mullaghmore has achieved ‘Signature Discovery Point’ status.

~ 33 ~ Adventure Tourism create necessary rural recreation and Adventure products continue to grow leisure infrastructure in the scenic in popularity and Sligo County uplands of the ICBAN region. In Council support many exciting Sligo, the project focused on the opportunities throughout the year following key goeheritage sites: Ben including, Maritime Centre Bulben Range incorporating the redevelopment at Strandhill, Off-road Gleniff/Glencar Valley, national Mountain Biking Centre on Mullaghmore/Streedagh Coastal. the Ox mountains near Coolaney in Strandhill/Knocknarea (Queen conjunction with Coillte and the Maedbh) Walk, Ox Mountains/Sligo pursuit of a Greenway recreational Way Trail and the Bricklieve walking/ cycle trail along the SLNCR (Carrowkeel) Miners Way and (Sligo, Leitrim and Northern Counties Historical Trail. The works Railway) from Sligo to Enniskillen in concentrated on providing high Co. Fermanagh. Work is on-going in quality walking routes and associated preparation of an impending cross infrastructure such as signage, border INTERREG V funding waymarking, site interpretation application involving, Sligo, Leitrim panels, site furniture, car parking etc. and Cavan Councils. Sligo County Council secured a dedicated award of €663,000 from the Promotion of Sligo overall grant aid award of €3,183,804. Sligo County Council’s ongoing collaboration with Sligo tourism Ltd. Pride of Place and the broad range of stakeholders Local communities throughout the engaged in the promotion and county are encouraged to showcase development of Co. Sligo as a premier their achievements and have tourism visitor destination is evident participated in the IPB Pride of Place in the exhaustive range cultural competition held in association with experiences, natural amenities and Co-operation Ireland since its outdoor activities developed inception in 2004. Entries are accepted throughout County Sligo annually. in either population categories or single issue categories and Sligo Border Uplands Project County Council supports entrants in The Border Uplands Project was their preparation for and during completed in June 2015. Sligo County judging day. The competition fosters Council was a partner in the Border community participation and Uplands Project, a joint venture highlights the importance of between ICBAN, Fermanagh District communities working together to Council and the County Councils of create civic pride in their area. In 2015 Cavan, Leitrim and Sligo which will the communities of Grange and

~ 34 ~ Strandhill represented the county in  Participate in social, economic and the competition. public life  Be truly valued and respected Next year, community groups will again be supported to enter and The ‘Sligo Age Friendly Alliance’ represent the county in this All Island established in October 2014 and made competition. up of the key decision makers from a host of organisations across the county Age Friendly Programme including HSE, Sligo LEADER The Age Friendly Cities & Counties Partnership Co. Ltd, An Garda Programme is part of a World Health Síochána, Active Retirement Ireland, Organisation response and strategy to Sligo Sport & Recreation Partnership our ageing population. The Irish Age- and Muintir na Tíre who have the Friendly Cities & Counties Programme opportunity to improve quality of life aims to create communities where all for people as they age. of us as we age, enjoy a good quality of life and continue to participate fully An Age Friendly Strategy and Action in the life of those communities. Sligo Plan for the county is being developed is part of the national Age Friendly and this work will continue in 2016 in Cities and Counties Programme, an addition to the delivery of individual initiative aimed at making Ireland the Age Friendly actions. best country in the world in which to grow old. Development of Play Opportunities Sligo County Council, as part of the An Age Friendly Ireland is a place Local Authorities Play & Recreation where all of us, as we age, can Network takes part in national  Lead healthier and active lives for initiatives - National Play Day and longer National Recreation Week - which  Stay living in our own homes and receive funding from the Department communities of Children and Youth Affairs.  Get to where we want to go, when we want Activities in Sligo as part of the  Have the information we need to lead National Play Day initiative cater for full lives children up to 12 years. This free  Feel and be safe at home and out and event is organised through the about partnership of Sligo County Council,  Be enabled by the build and social Sligo County Childcare Committee environment and Sligo Sport and Recreation  Continue to learn, develop and work Partnership and includes outdoor

~ 35 ~ activities, arts & crafts, storytelling and Good year for Sligo’s entrants in Tidy colouring competitions. Towns Awards

Sligo County Council in association with local agencies and organisations holds a week of recreation events for 12-18 year olds, in the summer, as part of the National Recreation Week initiative. Activities organised in previous years include art workshops, horse-riding for teenagers with autism, 2015 was a very encouraging year for dance class, zumba, movie & pizza Sligo’s entrants in the National Tidy night, stand-up paddle boarding and Towns Awards as they all reported an outdoor pursuits. improvement in their results from It is expected to continue to organise 2014. Coolaney was awarded a Silver and co-ordinate activities under both medal and also received the County initiatives in 2016. Award for Sligo. Prizes were also awarded to Riverstown (highly Support for the Community & commended) and Ballintogher Voluntary Sector (Commended). The Community & Voluntary Grant Scheme covers a broad range of Enniscrone won the Endeavour community activity in the county Award, which is presented for the including support for community biggest improvement by an entrant in groups, Tidy Towns Committees, each County from the previous year. Burial Ground Committees, Festival Sligo town received awards in two committees and organizers of categories, ‘Value Water’ and ‘Waste international / national and local Prevention.’ events that will promote the county. A new policy was prepared and adopted The various murals around Sligo town by the Council in 2015 where groups received high praise for the could apply for funding under four adjudicators. In the Adjudication different categories, as follows: Report, it stated that ‘the murals seen Community Event, Community in Sligo this year rival anything this Heritage, Community Enhancement adjudicator has seen anywhere in and Community Enterprise. A budget Ireland. Jaw-dropping isn’t something of €100,000 was set aside for this easily owned up to but the rendering initiative in 2015 and it is hoped to of Maud Gonne was this good.’ maintain this in 2016. The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor, Rosaleen O’Grady,

~ 36 ~ paid tribute to the various Tidy Towns Committees for their outstanding  Contribution to Volunteer Centre work by expressing that ‘the fact that  Diaspora Fund there has been an improvement right  Public Area Enhancement across the board speaks volumes for  Tracks & Trails the spirit and energy of our  REDZ Proposal communities. People take great pride  Agri-Food & Marine Tourism Initiative in their environment, and I am  Surf Summit delighted that their efforts have been acknowledged and rewarded.’ Town Twinning - Kempten students visit Sligo Chief Executive Ciaran Hayes, echoed The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County the Cathaoirleach’s commendation of Council hosted a reception in County the local communities, observing that Hall in October 2015 for a visiting ‘Sligo has a long tradition of group of students from Kempten who volunteerism which is reflected in the are involved in an exchange marvellous work carried out all over programme with St Angela’s College. the county. I would also like to The college was represented at the acknowledge the dedication of Council reception by Evelyn McManus, staff who work with great energy and Lecturer, Department of Nursing, enthusiasm alongside the Tidy Towns Health Sciences and Disability and Dr. committees, and their achievements Michele Glacken, Head of Department. this year will inspire them to even The reception was also attended by greater efforts in the future.’ members of the Town Twinning Committee and Elected Members. Matching Funds Funding has been provided under In her address the Cathaoirleach said Matching Contributions for 2016 to she ‘was honoured to have the allow the Council to drawdown and opportunity to join you in celebrating match fund a number of grant schemes the 25th Anniversary of the very and programmes during the year. special friendship between Kempten These include initiatives under and Sligo. Over the last 25 years, the tourism and recreational development, people of Kempten have been both economic development, social welcome visitors and exceptional inclusion, rural / community hosts, and this has been the foundation development etc. of our enduring association. The first contact between Kempten and Sligo In 2015 match funding was approved involved a student exchange for a number of different initiatives programme, and the networks and including the following: friendships established by that

~ 37 ~ initiative provided the inspiration to share and develop new ideas and develop other projects. concepts.’

The association was formalised with the signing of a Charter in Kempten in February 1990 and two months later in Sligo. The Charter expressed our shared ambition that ‘personal contacts be strengthened’ and focused on the important role to be played by young people in particular in fostering and nurturing this friendship.

The origins of this particular initiative date from a visit to Kempten in December 2013 by myself and Marissa Gillgan The discussions in Kempten prompted an engagement with St Angela’s college to discuss the feasibility of an Exchange Programme, and very quickly a consensus evolved that there would be significant benefit from sharing the experiences and practices in our respective colleges. The wider context to the programme is that it enables students to explore the nursing ethos and traditions in another EU country, to examine how nursing services are funded and administered, and to consider the public health issues and challenges being faced by our communities.

The Erasmus Programme has proven to be an excellent initiative in terms of broadening the students horizons, opening up new avenues in terms of study and research, and establishing an invaluable network of contacts to

~ 38 ~ Celebrating cultural links with Government of India to present the India people of Sligo with a gift of the bust Bust of Indian Poet Tagore unveiled of Tagore is a wonderful gesture which is greatly appreciated by our community. The monument will be a permanent testament to the generosity of your Government, it symbolises the cultural links exemplified by the association between Tagore and Yeats, and from a local perspective it is indicative of our close friendship with the Indian community of Sligo.’

A bust of Indian poet Rabindanrath The Cathaoirleach recalled the special Tagore was unveiled in Wine Street, association between Tagore and Yeats, Sligo in June 2015 by the Cathaoirleach ‘an association that sustained and of Sligo County Council, Councillor inspired both these great poets. Rosaleen O Grady. The ceremony was Tagore was the first non-European to also attended by Minister for Justice win the Nobel Prize for Literature in and Equality Frances Fitzgerald, 1913. His prose and magical poetry Minister of State for External Affairs, were translated into many languages, Government of India, General V K earning him international popularity Singh, Indian Ambassador to Ireland, and academic acclaim. WB Yeats Her Excellency Radhika Lokesh and wrote the introduction to Tagore’s members of the Oireachtas. Tagore collection of poetry which was was a contemporary and friend of WB published in 1912, and he referred to Yeats, and the bust was a gift by the his first meeting with Tagore in Indian Government to the people of London as ‘one of the great events of Sligo for the Yeats 150 Birthday my artistic life’. Yeats also remarked celebrations. on one of Tagore’s works ‘If someone

were to say he could improve this In her address, the Cathaoirleach said piece of writing, that person did not the function was being hosted ‘to understand literature.’ celebrate the literary achievements of

Nobel laureate and revered poet The Cathaoirleach thanked the Indian Rabindranath Tagore and reflect on his Association for their active role in the special association with our own celebration; ‘The people of Sligo are Nobel Laureate and cultural icon, WB renowned for their hospitality, they Yeats. This evening’s events are very welcome opportunities to celebrate significant at a number of levels. First and promote cultural diversity, and and foremost, the decision of the

~ 39 ~ the active and vibrant role played by Service also supported Yeatsian events our Indian community reflects this organized voluntarily by the arts culture and ethos. community such as the Harp Festival of Moons. The Cathaoirleach recalled the tributes Sligo County Council’s Arts Service in paid to Yeats when he won the Nobel partnership with the Arts Council of Prize; ‘At a function in Dublin in 1923 Ireland, HSE West and other key to honour WB Yeats on winning the stakeholders locally, regionally and Nobel Prize for Literature, the poet nationally delivered an annual arts was told that ‘his genius would be programme that built upon previous appreciated by posterity and that his successful years of arts activity in local name would be revered in every age communities enhancing the quality of and in every land where there were life for the people of Sligo. lovers of literature and true learning’ Yeats replied that he became a poet HE+ART Participatory Arts & Health because of the place he lived as a child, Programme & Bealtaine Festival recalling in particular the view of The ongoing annual programme of majestic Benbulben from his arts and health work was delivered in Grandparents’ house. This evening we partnership with the HSE West honour and celebrate the lives and Services for Older People and Health cultural legacy of Tagore and Yeats; Promotion, schools and community These are occasions to value and groups. Projects were cherish, and may well be the catalyst Intergenerational, in Day Care and and inspiration for further Residential settings and with Active engagement and cooperation in the Age & Active Retirement networks future.’ throughout the County. The theme for all projects in 2015 was “Place”. The The Cathaoirleach concluded her Intergenerational projects took place in address by quoting words of Tagore Easkey and Ballymote. A new project ‘which would certainly have resonated took place with Gallagher House, with his friend Yeats’ – “Let your life Tubbercurry. A workshop and lightly dance on the edges of time, like exhibition programme continues to dew on the tip of a leaf.” grow in St. John’s Community Hospital. Sligo Arts Service

2015 saw an impressive anniversary The Sligo Arts Bealtaine Festival celebration of W.B. Yeats which the programme featured fourteen free Council supported through its own events and exhibitions throughout the programme of events organized by the County. The Arts Service and the Library and Arts Services. The Arts Hawk’s Well Theatre jointly

~ 40 ~ commissioned “Old Flames” by Brian pulled off a huge community effort in Leydon who performed with Seamy delivering what was a really O’Dowd in Rathcormac Hall, Nazareth remarkable and memorable Fleadh House and the Hawk’s Well Theatre. and was an incredible opportunity for Sligo to be showcased on a world Children and Young People stage. The Primary Colours workshop and exhibition programme delivered 18 workshops in 9 schools with 240 students participating. 6 Gallery tours took place with 150 students participating.

County Sligo Youth Theatre delivered weekly workshops to 90 young people in three age groups between the ages of 10-18. The Youth Theatre staged four productions including an original show for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.

Culture Night In partnership with the Model and the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, the Arts Service produced Culture Night events with a family focus which were very well attended.

Contributions to the Arts Twenty two grants were awarded to organisations, venues and festivals.

The launch of the Fleadh was Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2015 performed by Minister of State at the Sligo played host to Fleadh Cheoil na Department of Transport, Tourism and nd hÉireann for the 2 successive year Sport, Michael Ring TD. Among the running. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is invited guests was Senator Labhrás O one of Ireland’s greatest cultural Murchú, Ard Stiúrthóir of Comhaltas attractions, and year after year grows Ceoltóirí Éireann, Michael Brennan, in numbers and in terms of profile Chair of the Connacht Council of internationally. In 2014, Sligo really Comhaltas, Bartley Gavin, Chair of

~ 41 ~ Fleadh Cheoil 2015, Members of the Cathaoirleach reflects on Fleadh Fleadh Executive Committee, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2015 volunteers, sponsors, supporters, and many more. When I spoke at the closing The Fleadh programme itself was Ceremony of extended in 2015 to include hundreds Fleadh Cheoil na of events. Due to the success of the hÉireann 2015, I outdoor gig rig in 2014 there was an remarked that increase in the number of days the gig the over-riding rig was in operation, from 6 days to 8. sentiment was A free programme of events took place one of enormous every day from the opening on pride tinged with regret; Pride that we Sunday August 9th through the entire somehow managed to surpass the week until the Fleadh drew to a close outstanding success of Fleadh 2014, the following Sunday August 16th. A regret that we are bidding farewell to second outdoor stage was added our many wonderful visitors who outside of City Hall on Quay St., graced the occasion with their which ensured that different parts of presence. Sligo Town were able to cater for the large numbers of visitors which It speaks volumes for the calibre and descended for the week. mind-set of the Fleadh Committee that, in the aftermath of Fleadh 2014, In addition, the hugely popular Fleadh they wasted no time in reflecting on its TV was broadcast live on TG4. The success or basking in the universal shows featured some of the biggest acclaim that came their way; They names in traditional Irish music, as immediately set about preparing for well as providing a platform for many Fleadh 2015, and what a thoroughly of the up and coming musicians. RTÉ enjoyable and successful week it was. Radio broadcast live from the Fleadh One very noticeable factor of Fleadh and also recorded their 6-part 2015 around the streets of Sligo was television series. Raidió na Gaeltachta the number of repeat visitors, people and Ocean FM also broadcast live to who came her 2014 and discovered it Millions of people worldwide. whetted their appetite for more.

Over the course of this week long But for many people the abiding event, an estimated 350,000 people legacy of Fleadh 2015 will be the spirit attended the various events run as part and energy of the Fleadh Committee of the Fleadh. and their crew of exceptional volunteers. Any corner you turned in

~ 42 ~ Sligo during Fleadh week, there was a the best of traditional Irish and folk friendly and obliging volunteer to help music from the 2014 Fleadh Cheoil in you on your way, and indeed that Sligo.’ spirit is evident all over communities in County Sligo. The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor, Rosaleen O’Grady, While I am reluctant to single out said the Award ‘was a fitting and particular groups, I must acknowledge deserved acknowledgement of the the special role of Sligo Tidy Towns, tremendous work carried out by they have been a hugely active and Fleadh TV and the Fleadh Cheoil dynamic organisation which has Committee. The quality of their energised the whole community. It coverage gave enormous exposure also was also a great pleasure to meet the to the wealth of musical talent in Sligo members of the overseas Branches of across the full music spectrum, and Comhaltas, people who are promoting was invaluable in terms of showcasing our tradition and culture all over the Sligo’s many attractions to a national world. and international audience.’

Sligo’s reputation as the Centre of Sligo County Council’s Chief cultural tourism in the northwest has Executive, Ciaran Hayes, credits been enhanced, and there is a ‘Fleadh TV’ as being ‘one of the many responsibility on all the key local success stories of Fleadh Cheoil na agencies to capitalise on the goodwill hÉireann. In the immediate aftermath and global profile generated by the of the Fleadh, people were universal Fleadh. and genuine in their praise for the An Cathaoirleach, Councillor organisation and the tremendous Rosaleen O’Grady community and voluntary spirit which were the inspirational back-drop to the Major Award for Fleadh TV event. There was a tangible sense of The outstanding television coverage pride among the people of Sligo at our provided by Fleadh TV during Fleadh ability to host an event of this scale Cheoil na hÉireann has been and importance to such a high acknowledged by the Irish Film and standard.’ TV Academy (IFTA). 'Fleadh TV' was broadcast live on TG4 for 8 hours Chairman of the Fleadh Committee over 3 nights from 15th - 17th August Bartley Gavin said ‘Fleadh Cheoil 2014, and in selecting them for an Sligo are delighted to have partnered award, IFTA described Fleadh TV as ‘ with Gifted Empire Productions to a groundbreaking live music and create Fleadh TV. The Fleadh entertainment series that showcased Committee saw the opportunity to

~ 43 ~ showcase Sligo to a large TV audience Chilcott, Ambassador Mulhall, Elected through a collaboration that led to the Members, MEP’s and Members of the creation of Fleadh TV. Sligo part Oireachtas. funded the productions and also commissioned and produced the TV advertisements of Sligo that were broadcast during each commercial break’

The advertisements featured many of Sligo’s unique strengths captured beautifully by Fleadh PRO Micheál Ó Domhnaill of Omedia Productions. Those Sligo advertisements have gone In his welcome address at the on to be incorporated in an array of reception, Cathaoirleach Councillor promotional material now used by Joe Queenan outlined the significance various organisations to promote of the occasion, stating ‘We are at a Sligo.’ point where the Peace Process has been embedded and we are all witnessing the many benefits. We are A milestone in the seeing greater trust arising from reconciliation process growth in cross-border co-operation, The visit of Prince Charles and trade and collaboration.’ his wife Camilla Spirit of friendship On 20th May 2015 Prince Charles and We now have a generation with no his wife Camilla made an historic visit experience of ‘The Troubles’ Your visit to County Sligo, their itinerary today is a milestone in the including a poignant visit to reconciliation process, a milestone that Mullaghmore and a civic reception in cements the new phase in our their honour at the Model Gallery. In relationship, where we bring closure to terms of logistics and preparation it past events and look to the future with was the largest such event hosted by optimism in a genuine spirit of Sligo County Council, with the events friendship. I welcome you to Sligo broadcast to a world-wide audience. and to invite you to explore and

sample all that it has to offer. The reception at the Model was We have much in common. attended by representatives of Throughout the years and to the community groups and special guests present day, tens of thousands from included Minister for Foreign Affairs this county have found livelihood and Charlie Flanagan, Ambassador made homes in the United Kingdom.

~ 44 ~ reflect in music the deepening Likewise, there are many residents of relationship born out of a difficult County Sligo who were born in Britain past. I believe in this composition of and maintain strong ties to your three movements, he has achieved that country. British people live and work objective. in every community in the county. Such intermingling of our two peoples Symbolism brings diversity to all of our lives and As with the music, so too the choice of reinforces our shared humanity. musician is full of symbolism. Drawing from a rich vein of musical Special gift talent in Sligo, we have deliberately The Cathaoirleach presented Prince chosen the next generation, a Charles with a musical composition generation with whom we look specially commissioned to mark this forward with hope and confidence and event. ‘It is Sligo’s gift to you and one in whom we entrust our traditions, that is full of meaning and symbolism. culture and heritage. It is in good On this momentous occasion, where in hands. the words of Uachtaráin Na hÉireann, Music makes audible what ultimately ‘a shadow of the past has become the becomes visible. It is therefore my shelter of the present’, it was considered pleasure to present this composition, fitting to commission a musical as a gift, in honour of your visit to composition from Michael Rooney. Ireland and to Sligo in particular.’ The challenge set for the composer was to draw on our shared history and

~ 45 ~ IInnffrraassttrruuccttuurree,, EEnnvviirroonnmmeenntt && FFiirree SSeerrvviicceess DDiirreeccttoorraattee

Road Transportation & Safety Environmental Services Fire Services

~ 46 ~ Road Transportation and Safety Sligo Roads Projects Get Green Light €100M N4 scheme will be the largest project developed in Sligo

The N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin Road project and the Eastern Garvogue Bridge and Approach Roads have been included as “key priorities in the roads programme which will support economic growth” in the Department of Tourism Transport & Sport (DTTAS) seven Year Transportation Investment Plan 2016 – 2022 which was published in October The Proposed Road Development is one of the biggest and most 2015. complex infrastructural projects ever proposed to be developed in County Sligo. It constitutes the remaining portion (As indicated in image above) of the N4 in Co. Sligo requiring improvement and Sligo County Council welcomed the measures approximately 14.71km in length passing through the news that the N4 Collooney to townlands of Rathrippin, Collooney, Toberbride, Mullaghnabreena, Ardcurley, Cloonamahan, Doorly, Knocknagroagh, Drumfin, Castlebaldwin Road Development has Cloonlurg, Carrowkeel, Carrownagark, Kingsbrook, Aghalenane, been included in the DTTAS €10 Ardloy, Springfield, Tawnagh, Cloonymeenaghan, Sheerevagh, Cloongad, Drumderry, Annaghcor, Castlebaldwin, Cloghoge Upper Billion Transportation Investment Plan and Cloghoge Lower. The road type will be Type 2 Dual Carriageway which was announced by Minister for tied into the existing network to the south via a section of Standard Single Carriageway. Tourism Transport & Sport Pascal Donohoe TD. Funding for the Partnership Department of Transport, Tourism and The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Sport is being made as part of the Council, Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady Government’s overall Capital Plan, as said ‘This was a concerted effort by the announced by Minister for Public Council members and staff, the N4 Expenditure and Reform, Brendan Action Group and the local Howlin TD today. The Scheme was community, our colleagues in the well positioned to be included in the Dail, Sligo Chamber and the local Plan following receipt of Planning business community, the IDA and the Approval and Confirmation of the NRA and the Department of Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) by Transport. When people come An Bord Pleanala in July 2014. This together to work in a spirit of followed an Oral Hearing in partnership towards a common Castledargan Hotel in April 2014. objective, there is no limit to what they can achieve, and this is a great day for all concerned.’ The Cathaoirleach paid tribute to the Council’s project

~ 47 ~ team by adding ‘Their years of The scheme was designed in-house by meticulous preparation and planning Sligo County Council's Major Road has come to fruition, and today’s news Schemes Design Team, with input to represents a major boost for every the Environmental Impact Statement sector of our community as it will (EIS) and Natura Impact Statement greatly improve access to this region. (NIS) from Environmental Specialists. This is a very significant day for Sligo The CPO was put together by the same County Council, the residents along in-house design team. the existing N4, members of the N4 Action Group and the wider public Support of NRA who regularly travel along this stretch The National Roads Authority (NRA) of the N4.’ have been very supportive of the N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin Road Economic benefits Scheme and in 2015 allocated a budget Sligo County Council’s Director of to Sligo County Council to carry out Services Tom Kilfeather said ‘The N4 Advanced Works and Land Purchase. Collooney to Castlebaldwin scheme The Advance Works include will greatly improve the safety of this Permanent Fencing along the route stretch of road which has seen 30 boundary and Archaeological fatalities over the past 40 years or so. Investigations, both of which have The improvement of this road has commenced on site. been a priority for Sligo County Council for a number of years with €100 million investment designs going back to the early The estimated overall scheme cost of nineties. Along with improving road the scheme is €100m and when safety for all road users, this Scheme developed will be the biggest will alleviate traffic congestion and infrastructural project to be reduce journey times and time undertaken in Sligo in modern times. reliability which will generate positive Sligo County Council's Majors Road economic benefits to businesses and Design Team will examine the detail of consumers. This major investment in the Capital Plan to determine the our roads infrastructure is very mechanism and timescale for the significant in the context of the delivery of the schemes but it is likely Council’s new responsibilities in the that the delivery mechanism will be area of economic development, and Design / Build rather than Public will be welcomed by local enterprise, Private Partnership (PPP). our hospitality sector and the increasing number of visitors to Sligo For further information on the Scheme and the Northwest.’ visit http://www.sligococo.ie/N4

~ 48 ~ Eastern Garvogue Bridge and as an essential project in meeting the Approach Roads Scheme objectives which are required for Sligo Also included in today's 6 Year Capital to develop and grow as a Gateway and Plan announcement is the Eastern to achieve its development potential. Garvogue Bridge and Approach Roads Scheme. This Scheme received The delivery of this project will greatly Planning Approval and CPO enhance overall confidence in Sligo’s Confirmation from An Bord Pleanala ability to grow and its ability to attract in 2009. The Detailed Design of this funding for other projects such as Scheme is at an advanced stage. Cleveragh Regional Park Development, Cranmore Regeneration The main benefits for Sligo Residents and for the improvement of and the wider community will include educational institutions, health much reduced journey times for services etc. and in its ability to walkers, cyclists and vehicles between develop other key elements essential the North and South sides of the River to meeting its development potential.’ Garvogue in the eastern quadrant. It will significantly reduce travel A total of €19,128,876 was initially distance and improve access to the allocated for the improvement and many facilities on opposite sides of the maintenance of the public road river. The route will also greatly network in County Sligo in 2015. reduce response times for emergency Work continued on the planning, services e.g., ambulance, An Garda design & construction of key strategic Síochána and fire services. The total national and non national road length of the Scheme is 2km. projects serving County Sligo and Sligo City – the gateway city of the Sligo County Council’s Senior north-west. The National Roads Engineer with responsibility for Roads Authority and the Department of and Transportation Tom Brennan, said Transport, Tourism and Sport in ‘The Eastern Garvogue Bridge & addition to Sligo County Council were Approach Roads Scheme is clearly the key funding agencies for this now seen nationally as well as locally programme.

~ 49 ~ The tables below show the details of the National and Regional Roads in Sligo. National Primary Roads Route Description Length (km) N4 Sligo City to Roscommon Co. Boundary 34.35 N15 Sligo City to Bunduff Br. 27.04 N16 Sligo City to Leitrim Co. Boundary 10.39 N17 Collooney to Bellaghy 34.06 Total 105.84

National Secondary Roads Route Description Length (km) N59 Ballysadare to Mayo Co. Boundary 47.38

Regional Roads Route Description Length (km) R277 Killaspugbrone to Sligo Airport 1.70 R278 Sligo to Carrickoneilleen 7.63 R279 Cliffoney to Mullaghmore 4.40 R284 Carrowroe to Roscommon Co. Boundary 26.60 R286 Sligo City to Leitrim Co. Boundary 11.20 R287 Sligo City to Leitrim Co. Boundary via Carrowroe 15.89 R290 Ballysadare to Ballintogher 14.63 R291 Sligo City to Rosses Point 7.83 R292 Sligo City to Strandhill to Ballydrehid 18.23 R293 Ballinaboll to Gurteen to Roscommon Co. Boundary 25.80 R294 Cloonloo to Tubbercurry to Lough Talt 42.50 R295 Ballymote to Keash to Roscommon Co. Boundary 14.60 R296 Ballymote to Bunnannaddan to R294 10.20 R297 Dromore West to Enniscrone to Co. Boundary 29.80 R298 N59 to Lacknatlieva to R297 4.90 R361 Roscommon to Co. Boundary to Killaraght to Rosc. Co. 1.60 R870 Sligo City – Pearse Road / Markievicz Road 1.37 Total 238.88

~ 50 ~ National Road Major Road Capital Investment Programme 2016- Schemes 2022. The Scheme is currently second N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin on the priority list, therefore making it Following An Bord very likely that it will progress to Pleanala’s confirmation of construction in the early years of the the EIS and CPO for this Scheme in Capital Plan. July 2014, Sligo County Councils Majors Road Design Team has N16 Sligo to County Boundary continued to progress the In 2015, Sligo County development of the Scheme. SCC’s Council’s Majors Road Majors Road Design Office is Project Design Office progressed the Managing the Scheme and is also the Constraints Study and Route Selection Lead Road Designers for the Scheme. process for the N16. A route is being The Notice to Treat and Notice to selected for the full length of the N16 Enter were issued to affected in County Sligo with a view to landowners early in 2015 to enable developing 2-3 Minor Projects along Advance Works Contracts to the route. SCC’s Majors Road Design commence and to begin land purchase Office is Project Managing the Scheme negotiations. The Advance Works and is also the Lead Road Designers Contracts will continue in 2016, with for the Scheme. the aim of completing all Advance A Preferred Route is expected to be Works Contracts by the end of 2016. selected by mid 2016. This will enable The Advance Works Contracts to be the selection of a Minor Scheme to be undertaken and completed in 2016 are developed thereafter. This will as follows: involve carrying out a number of  Permanent Fencing detailed tasks including design,  Archaeology Stages (ii) – (iv) preparation of EIS or Environmental Report, landowner liaison, landowner  Ground Investigation (G.I) mapping, CPO process, Planning  Service Diversions process and Project Appraisal. It is  Topographical Survey planned to have a Minor Scheme  Building Demolition ready for construction in 2018. Land purchase continued in 2015 along with the progression of the outstanding Land Acquisition Agreements.

There was very positive news for the Scheme in September 2015 with its inclusion as a ‘key investment priority’ project in the Government’s published

~ 51 ~ N4/N15 Traffic Improvement Scheme (Hughes Bridge Widening Scheme) N4/N15 Sligo Urban Improvement Construction of Scheme the Hughes Following on Bridge Widening Scheme was from the N4 completed successfully in 2015. This Hughes Bridge Scheme involved the provision of two Widening Scheme, the N4/N15 Sligo additional traffic lanes across Hughes Urban Improvement Scheme is the Bridge by the removal of the existing next section being developed by Sligo footpaths on both sides of the bridge County Council’s Majors Road Design and the carrying out of strengthening Office. This Section commences at the works to the existing bridge. It northern end of the Hughes Bridge included the construction of two new Widening Scheme and finishes north dedicated pedestrian/cycle bridges of the Rosses Point junction. outside of the existing bridge structure on both sides. Jacobs Engineering are engaged to carry out the detail design of this The Scheme was Project Managed by Scheme under the guidance of SCC’s Sligo County Council's Major Road Majors Road Design Team. It will Schemes Design Team. Engineering include upgrading the National consultants on the scheme were Primary Road from the northern end ARUPs and the Contractor was L & M of Hughes Bridge to north of the Keating Ltd. from County Clare. Sligo Rosses Point junction, along with the County Council provided the Resident Rosses Point, Duct Street and Engineering staff for the Contract. Markievicz Road Junctions. The Works commenced on site on in Copper River Bridge will be upgraded October 2014 and the Contract was as part of the works. A new Traffic substantially complete and fully open Management System will be designed to traffic on 07th August 2015, in time and upgraded to an Urban Traffic for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Control System. Sligeach 2015. It is expected that the Preliminary Design, EIS and CPO documents will The successful completion of this be completed and ready for publication Scheme has enabled the progression of in May 2016. the next stage of the N4/N15 Sligo Urban Improvement Scheme.

~ 52 ~

National Road Maintenance Works National Primary Road Maintenance The NRA allocation for National Primary Maintenance in 2015 was as follows: Ordinary Maintenance €316,238 Winter Maintenance €180,000 Bridge Maintenance €20,000 Route Lighting €97,108 Local Authority Support Maintenance €55,900 Total €669,246

National Secondary Maintenance The NRA allocation for N59 Maintenance in 2015 was as follows: Ordinary Maintenance €82,454 Winter Maintenance €40,000 Bridge Maintenance €30,000 Route Lighting €17,000 Total €169,454

Non National Roads Low Cost Accident Schemes A grant of €164,000 for six schemes was obtained in 2015 at the following locations: R294 Cashel, Cloonloo retain the road edge L-2601-0 Cliff Road Enniscrone R296 Cuan Iosa, Ballymote crash barrier R297 Easkey Vocational School traffic calming beside school R294 Powellsborough Cross improve sightlines R284 Sooey Village traffic calming/footpaths

Restoration Improvement Grant The types of work carried out An allocation of €3,662,957 was included: provided by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport for the  Laying bitumen macadam surfacing to restoration improvement of Regional shape and strengthen the roads and Local Roads. Approximately followed by surface dressing. 47km of road at 62 locations was  Laying crushed stone to shape and programmed to be improved with this strengthen the road and double grant. surface dressing the stone to seal the

~ 53 ~  road surface and provide skid A grant of €2,878,642 was allocated in resistance. 2015 for improvement and  Recycling – this was done where there maintenance works on Regional and were adequate stone already in the Local Roads in County Sligo. road structure but the road had disintegrated (typically used in bog Regional Roads Signposting road locations). Programme A grant of €160,000 was provided by Restoration Maintenance Grant the Department of Transport, Tourism A grant of €1,130,327 was provided in & Sport under this heading in 2015. 2015 for surface dressing Regional and This funding has enabled the Council Local roads. This programme to provide directional signage, included the surface dressing of advanced directional signage and local approximately 59km in total at 59 road number identification plates for locations. the following eight routes and for some signage on other routes. Discretionary Grant A grant of €2,878,642 was allocated in 2015 for improvement and maintenance works on Regional and Local Roads in County Sligo.

R284 Carraroe to Co. Boundary with Roscommon R293 Ballymote to Co. Boundary R294 Lough Talt to Co. Boundary (Roscommon) R295 Ballymote to Co. Boundary (Roscommon) R296 Ballymote to R294 Junction R297 Dromore West to Mayo Co. Boundary (N59) R298 Lackancahill to N59 R361 Beside Roscommon Border

~ 54 ~ Environmental Services Ballisodare Composting Facility Recovery and Recycling Facilities Sligo County Council part fund this Operations facility which accepts green waste and Bring Banks sells peat free compost generated at the The maintenance and site. upkeep of the Bring Bank Network throughout Sligo Litter Management Town and County is the In 2016, activity will continue on the responsibility of the Environmental enforcement of the Litter Pollution Act, Services Section. Sligo County Council 1997 – 2003 as amended. has full ownership of the Bring Bank network and employs a dedicated Environmental Awareness General Operative to maintain the sites Sligo County Council supports a to reduce disposal costs of illegal number of environmental awareness dumping. initiatives including National Spring Clean, Anti litter/ Anti Graffiti Grant Textile Banks Scheme and LA 21 Partnership. One of The contract for the provision of textile the most successful campaigns is the banks is currently at tender stage and Green Schools programme. Themes the successful contractor to win this include energy awareness, water tender should be in situ in the first conservation, sustainable transport, quarter of 2016. At present, Textile biodiversity and global citizenship. Recycling Ltd have clothes banks placed on 12 public Bring Bank sites Waste Regulations, Monitoring and and 19 private Bring Bank sites Enforcement throughout Sligo Town and County. Waste Management continues to be to Textile Recycling Ltd makes monthly the fore of EU and Governmental payments to Sligo County Council and priorities. It receives recognition to Landowners/Communities for through increased amounts of clothes recycled at these banks. They legislation and funding. Waste also contribute to a charitable enforcement activities continue to be organisation. fully recoupable from Governmental funding while other waste Recycling Centre Tubbercurry management activities are partially Sligo County Council re-tendered the recoupable. This funding originates running of the Tubbercurry Recycling from initiatives such as the plastic bag Centre in 2014 and achieved savings. levy and landfill levy. The legislation introduced by Government has encompassed producer responsibility

~ 55 ~ which also generates additional the recycling and recovery rates and to monies. try and ensure that works undertaken by Sligo Local Authorities are carried There are ever increasing demands out in compliance with Environmental placed on organisations and families Legislation. but the need for proper waste management continues to be of The Waste Enforcement Office also importance for economic, legislative continues to deal with historic and environmental reasons. situations and the environmental problems caused by them. Risk There is a continuing need to avoid the assessments were carried out on one of production of waste at source and try the closed landfills and proposals for and divert as much as possible from remediation of same have been put landfill. This diversion of waste is forward to the Environmental achieved through the provision of Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA in facilities and services followed by considering the proposals can specify education and enforcement. The Bring actions to be taken that will have to be Bank Network, Civic Amenity Sites, adhered to, at a financial cost. It is Composting Site, Kerbside Recycling, anticipated that the necessary measures Home Composting and the will be implemented to reduce any of introduction of a separate organic the environmental impacts which may collection all help divert waste from be associated with the landfill. The landfill. Following the adoption of the Department may fund the monitoring new Waste Bye-Laws, the Environment pending the decision of the EPA. The Section has undergone a Pilot Project cost of monitoring this landfill and called the National Brown Bin Pilot others will have to be budgeted for. Project. Waste Management Planning Another element of waste management For the purposes of Waste Management is trying to ensure that people manage Planning the country is divided into 3 their waste in a manner that avoids the waste regions. Sligo is in the Connacht creation of environmental pollution. Ulster Region. A 6 year plan was Ongoing waste enforcement activities agreed in 2015 which sets out a road will endeavour to reduce this to a map for achieving commitments, and is minimum. the framework for the prevention and management of waste. The plan is a Waste Management and Enforcement statutory document and Sligo County priorities will continue to involve Council has obligations to fund bringing unauthorised sites into initiatives in the plan as well as the environmental compliance, increasing regional office based in Mayo County

~ 56 ~ Council. Sligo is represented on the particular reference to protection of Regional Waste Steering Group. water quality.  Implementation of the National Catchment Management Inspection Plan for domestic The principal piece of legislation wastewater treatment systems as relating to the protection of surface published by the Environmental water, groundwater, tidal, and coastal Protection Agency. water quality in Ireland is the EU  Implementation of Pollution Water Framework Directive. Reduction Programmes for Nationally, work has now commenced designated shellfish waters. on the second cycle of implementing  Implementation of the European the Directive. Preliminary consultation Union (Good Agricultural Practice work has commenced with the aim of for Protection of Waters) delivering updated River Basin District Regulations 2014 (S.I. no. 31 of Management Plans, which will be 2014). delivered in the second half of 2017  Complaint and query response instead of the stipulated target of relating to general environmental, December 2015. Local authorities play water quality and planning related a key role in implementing issues. programmes of measures detailed in the relevant RBD plans within their Local Laboratory functional areas. The current focus on The local laboratory will close in 2016 updating the RBD plans may as part of a proposed cost saving potentially place increased demands on measure outlined in the current Environment Section resources during financial plan. Arrangements are being 2016. Nationally, emphasis is on put in place to subcontract out all integrated catchment management and sampling programmes for 2016. This relates primarily to the following will include drinking water, bathing specific areas of work, which will water, rivers, lakes, discharge licences continue to be prioritised during 2016. and pollution incident monitoring.  Licensing and enforcement of trade and domestic effluent discharges to Drinking Water waters under the Local Government The quality of drinking water in Ireland (Water Pollution) Act 1977 as is governed by the EU (Drinking amended. Water) Regulations, 2014. All public  Assessing planning proposals for water supplies and regulated Group domestic, commercial, agricultural Water Schemes will be monitored in and forestry developments in terms 2016, in accordance with statutory of environmental impact, with requirements and those set by Irish Water where relevant. Legislation

~ 57 ~ defines what parameters are tested, and Environmental Protection Agency Act, the monitoring frequency. Sligo 1992. County Council will continue to act as the supervisory authority in relation to Air Pollution the provision of drinking water by Environment will continue to enforce private water suppliers, however due the 2 Air Pollution Licences and to resource constraints the level of provide advice and information on work being carried out in this area is odours and air pollution complaints. limited. Ban on Smoky Fuels Bathing Water In 2012 the Dept. introduced new In 2015, Sligo County Council formally Regulations extending the restricted identified five beaches under the 2008 area with regard to the marketing, sale Bathing Water Regulations; these were & distribution of smoky fuels Rosses Point, Enniscrone, (bituminous coal). They also made the Mullaghmore, Streedagh and use of this fuel type, within the Mullaghmore. Monitoring of all restricted area, an offence. Sligo beaches will continue in 2016. Results County Council is responsible for the of this monitoring will be displayed enforcement of these Regulations. Due locally at each of the beaches and on to the changes introduced, this will be the council’s website throughout the challenging and will require a change 2016 bathing season. Applications will in habits for inhabitants of Sligo Town be made to An Taisce for the Blue Flag and Environs regarding the type of fuel and Green Coast Awards. they use to heat their homes. However it should ensure that the increase in air Lifesaving quality, observed since the original Sligo County Council aim to provide Regulations were introduced in 2003, lifeguard cover for the 2016 bathing are maintained and improved upon. season at Rosses Point, Enniscrone, From 2018 a nationwide ban on “smoky Streedagh and Dunmoran along with fuel” is envisaged. Beach Warden cover for Strandhill. Casual Trading Rivers and lakes The Casual Trading Act 1955 covers All rivers and lakes listed in the open air trading of goods at designated National Monitoring Programme will bays throughout the County of Sligo. be monitored in 2016. The Environment Section enforces Air and Noise Pollution Casual Trading Bye Laws in order to Noise Control regulate casual trading on public The Section provides advice and property. Regular inspections will information on residential and continue to be carried out by the commercial noise under the

~ 58 ~ Council’s appointed Trading Officers to ensure that the trading bays are being The Dog Warden service tender is operated in accordance with the Bye currently being finalised. Re-homing Laws. from the shelter is continuing with a number of charities involved in the Climate Change & Energy process. Inspections of Dog Breeding Efficiency/Corporate Building Costs establishments also takes place with 2 Sligo County Council participates in establishments registered. the Partnership Programme developed by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Cathaoirleach honours Environmental Ireland (SEAI) to assist public bodies to Staff on National Awards - Sligo save money, improve the environment County Council wins Cré, Repak, and and make significant reductions in Green Fleadh Awards for 2015. energy usage. The supports available The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County include energy management training, Council Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady annual action planning and facility hosted a reception in November 2015 to energy assessments. It is hoped to honour the staff of Sligo County make further use of this valuable Council’s Environmental section on service during 2016 in an effort to make their achievement of receiving three our Local Authority more energy- major national awards. efficient. Among the guests were Percy Foster Agriculture, Education, Health and representing Cré, Michal Hannon of Welfare Repak, County Councillors, Tom Sligo County Council continues to Kilfeather, Director of Services and implement all relevant food safety Chairman of the Fleadh Committee, legislation under the Service Contract Bartley Gavin, representatives of Sligo between Sligo County Council and the Tidy Towns, with the focus very much Food Safety Authority of Ireland. This on the award-winning staff of includes the supervision of two Environment Section abattoirs and two seasonal poultry slaughter plants along with three Small In her address, the Cathaoirleach meat manufacturing plants. Councillor O’Grady said ‘One of the Discussions are ongoing regarding a most important responsibilities a Local Shared Services model for delivering Authority has is in the area of the service. Environment, and it is a great source of pride to everyone in Sligo County Animal Welfare Council, elected members and staff, The Council continues to implement when news of your recent awards was the Control of Horses Act and has seen announced. The dedicated staff who a major reduction in abandoned horses.

~ 59 ~ work in Environment section do so the project, including Siobhan Gillen, with an enthusiasm and spirit that is Matthew Byrne, Peter Murtagh and clear for all to see, and the their team of Waste Management presentations of these major awards Advisors. was a public affirmation of what was privately accepted, that Sligo County Percy Foster of Cré outlined how Sligo Council is fortunate to have one of the County Council had successfully best Environment Teams in any local applied to be a national ‘pilot’ for the authority’ Brown Bin project. He said the work undertaken by the Sligo Waste The Cathaoirleach added ‘Encouraging Management Team was exceptional. people to be more protective of their Not only did their work have an environment is a difficult and hugely enormous impact in terms of important challenge. The ‘Brown Bin’ presentation of waste, it enabled the project, expertly planned and delivered Council to comply with EU Directives by our staff, was a master-class in and also helped to create jobs in the project management and team work composting sector. Mr Foster observed The quality and scope of this exercise that Local Authorities all over the attracted two major awards, the Cré country were taking note of what was Award and the Pakman award for happening in Sligo with a view to excellence in waste management and replicating our success in their own recycling’ areas. He concluded his remarks by saying that the Sligo County Council Director of Services Tom Kilfeather Waste Management team ‘had made an reflected on the many receptions that outstanding contribution to the sector.’ have been hosted by Cathaoirligh over the years to honour people and groups Waste Management Enforcement for their achievements across the full Officer Matthew Byrne presented a spectrum of activity in the county, and report on the National Brown Bin Pilot said it was a very special occasion for Programme; He explained that the aim the staff to have their work publicly of the programme was to divert as acknowledged in this manner by the much recyclable and food waste as Cathaoirleach. While noting the many possible from the landfill bin and to challenges being faced by the Council, improve the quality of the waste in the ‘it does not mean that you drop your brown bin. It entailed delivering an standards, it creates an opportunity awareness campaign, organising door- and opening for Councillors and staff do-door visits around Sligo, and to work together to do things monitoring the results. The outcome differently.’ Mr Kilfeather commended was hugely impressive, with a pre- the Environment staff who worked on awareness contamination rate of 45%

~ 60 ~ being reduced following the project to a is also responsible for managing the rate of 1%. Mr Byrne paid special delivery of operational emergency fire tribute to the Waste Management and rescue services across 4 Fire Advisors who worked on the project, Brigade Units located in Sligo, Margaret Dunleavy, David McGovern Ballymote, Tubbercurry, and and Rachel Finan. Enniscrone.

Emer Concannon of the Fleadh Sligo Fire Service was active in Executive Committee summarised the promoting community fire safety background to the Fleadh Committee’s throughout the year, focusing success in winning the ‘Responsible particularly on vulnerable groups in Travel and Tourism’ Award for 2015. the community and personnel from She said ‘Sligo was proud to host the each fire station facilitated visits to their Fleadh in successive years, it energised stations and requests from voluntary the whole community to work together groups to provide fire safety talks. The to showcase our town to a global fire service also conducts schools fire audience.. The efforts of the Green safety programmes every two years in Fleadh volunteers resulted in a all national schools. It is planned to significant improvement between 2014 develop this aspect of the fire service and 2015 through the delivery of a work during 2016. number of initiatives, including the placement of recycling stations The Fire Services Department process throughout the town, re-useable Fleadh all applications for Fire Safety glasses, and a sustainable transport Certificates under building control scheme. The volunteers were hugely legislation and is also involved in committed to the project, and the planning referrals for commercial manner in which it was planned and developments, inspecting and rolled out formed a template for the reporting on Circuit and District Court organisation of future festivals. applications for Places of Public Entertainment, Registration of Fire Fire Services Arms and Explosives Stores and Sligo County Council Petroleum is statutorily designated as the Regulations Licences Fire Authority for the Sligo Fire Service, in recognition of the County of Sligo potentially hazardous roles performed under Section 9 of the Fire Services by its personnel, is required to Acts 1981-2003 and provides a range of implement a continuous programme of Fire Safety, Enforcement and training, including mandatory refresher Emergency Management Services and training in both core and specialist

~ 61 ~ skills for all fire-fighting personnel. represent a major part of the 2016 Annual charges to neighbouring budget. The 2016 budget also reflects counties who provide both fire and an intensive programme of rescue response services within the preventative maintenance and County of Sligo and call-out systems replacement of specialist equipment, through CAMP West in , all plant and facilities.

~ 62 ~ Planning, Community & Economic Development Directorate

Heritage & Conservation Services

Development Management

Enforcement of Planning Control

~ 63 ~ Development Management from the elected members, given at the Council’s November meeting. Development Planning Unit (DPU) The Development Planning Unit is The new CDP 2017-2023 will include responsible for drafting planning and general policies and objectives for the development policy for Sligo County current Sligo & Environs Development and City, in consultation with the Plan (SEDP) area, for which a local public, members, officials, prescribed area plan will be prepared after the bodies and other stakeholders. The adoption of the new CDP. Development Planning team also carries out research, advises on The Draft Plan is expected to be development proposals, facilitates published in April/May 2016. Public plan implementation and participates consultation on the Draft CDP will in a range of initiatives, at both local take place in Summer 2016 for a period and regional level. of a minimum ten weeks, with the Second Chief Executive’s Report on The year 2015 has seen the submissions due by mid-September commencement of a major 2016. The elected members will adopt development plan review on an or amend the Draft CDP in December unprecedented scale. Following the 2016. Any proposed amendments abolition of Sligo Borough Council, must go on public display for a further Sligo County Council has become the four weeks, with the deadline for single planning authority for both adopting the new CDP 2017-2023 in County Sligo and Sligo Town. early April 2017. The Plan will become Therefore, the County Council is now operational in May 2017. in the process of preparing a single development plan covering its entire Development Management jurisdiction. The Planning section continues to manage development in accordance The statutory review of the County with the requirements of the Planning Development Plan (CDP) commenced and Development Act 2000 (as on 15 May 2015, with a period of pre- amended) and associated Regulations. draft public consultation that ended on 10 July 2015. In total, 36 submissions The number of planning applications were received during this period. The received in 2015 has remained First Chief Executive’s Report on pre- consistent with that of 2014 draft submissions was sent to the (approximately 450). However it is elected members on 31 August 2015. notable that pre-planning consultation The formal preparation of the Draft activity has increased significantly and CDP commenced following directions it would be expected that 2016 will see

~ 64 ~ a corresponding increase in the conditions which have not been number of planning applications complied with. The Section conducts received. site visits and issues Warning Letters, serves Enforcement Notices and The Planning Section is continuously institutes legal proceeding, as monitoring its operations with a view appropriate. The Costs provided in to implementing improvements and the Budget for 2016 reflect the likely efficiencies to deliver the optimum level of activity in this area with more service to the public. Through than 200 new complaints expected. improved monitoring and engagement Hereunder are some relevant details of with agents the number of invalid activity during 2015. applications has been reduced by 20%  154 new complaints lodged in 2015. The planning department is  151 new complaints investigated committed to reducing this figure  114 warning letters further during 2016.  57 enforcement notices  12 prosecutions initiated The Planning section also continues to  144 complaints resolved through review the quality of our on-line negotiation services including the following:  46 complaints dismissed  self Service Pre-planning facility  e-referral system for the Collection of Development transmission of documentation to Contributions prescribed bodies, (e.g.) An Bord The Enforcement Section is responsible Pleanála for the collection of development  the Council website, to ensure that contributions. Staff resources continue the on-line information is to be allocated to ensure that comprehensive, up-to-date and contributions are paid in a timely easily available manner and to follow up defaulters.  potential to facilitate the on-line The position in relation to the booking of pre-planning meetings. collection of arrears has improved significantly in the last number of Enforcement of Planning years. Most of the outstanding money Control is in respect of unsold new build The Enforcement Section’s role in this property, mainly dwelling houses and area involves investigating all will be paid in due course on the sale complaints from the public with of the properties. It is anticipated due regard to unauthorised development, to the upturn in the economy that the random inspections of developments arrears position will continue to in progress, and dealing with prior to improve during 2016. commencement conditions or

~ 65 ~ Unfinished Housing Developments progressingthe completion of a Sligo County Council facilitated the number of developments. building of a significant number of housing developments since 2000. A Taking Estates in Charge number of these developments were The expenditure sum provided under left unfinished. The Council, unlike this heading relates to the costs to the most other Local Authorities which Council in arranging for the carrying put multi function teams specifically in out C.C.T.V. surveys of all main runs place to deal with unfinished of foul and storm sewers in housing developments, relied on its own estates, as part of the taking in charge existing Enforcement Section staff to process. These Surveys are required in address the issue. The satisfactory order to ensure satisfactory standards completion of these developments of construction. Taking in charge fees represents a significant challenge for provided under income in the Budget the Section. Working with developers, more than cover these costs. The Financial Institutions, Receivers and Council commenced the process of Residents is very time consuming but taking 4 estates in charge during 2015. a lot of progress has been made over Eight estates were taken in charge in the last couple of years and in 2015. particular in 2015, where works have being carried out in over 50 Building Control developments. The taking in charge of The objective of the Building Control many of these developments will be Section is to encourage good building progressed during 2016. In addition practice, to ensure that buildings are Site Resolution Plans are being constructed correctly and that access prepared for a further 17 for the disabled and elderly is developments where it is hoped that provided for in building plans. Under works will continue next year. The inspection targets set nationally, the Council has been aided in its work by Council is required to inspect between a significant allocation of Site 12% and 15% of new construction Resolution Funding from the works notified by way of the Department of the Environment, submission of a Commencement Community and local Government for Notice. The budget provided allows nine developments. Financial the Council to carry out its function in Institutions which provided Bonds for this area. The Council inspected developments are also now engaging thirteen (13) buildings in 2015. to a much greater degree than heretofore with this Section and this Disability Access Certificates has helped considerably in (D.A.C.)

~ 66 ~ A D.A.C. is required for all new non- County Sligo Heritage Plan 2016-2020 domestic buildings (including During 2015, County Sligo Heritage apartments and flats), material Forum prepared the draft County alterations and extensions to buildings Sligo Heritage Plan (2016-2020). The and certain changes of uses. This Forum was supported in its work by requirement was introduced with the Heritage Office, Sligo County effect from 1st January 2010. A fee of Council. The draft Plan was presented €800 per Certificate is generally to Sligo County Council for payable (€500 where it coincides with consideration and adoption in a Fire Safety Certificate application) December 2015. At its core, the draft with certain exemptions for small Plan will seek to protect, conserve, schools. A sum of €16,000 for 26 manage and promote the value of Certificates has been provided in the Sligo’s heritage in recognition of its budget under this heading. Twenty significant contribution to the quality one (21) no. applications for of life of communities and the Certificates were submitted in 2015. socioeconomic development of the county. The draft Heritage Plan will Derelict Sites continue to inform and underpin The Council is required by law to heritage measures promoted through establish and maintain a Register of the County Development Plan, the Derelict Sites. The Enforcement Local Economic and Community Plan Section therefore investigates all and the Local Development Strategy. complaints of dereliction. It serves, on owners/occupiers (where Accordingly, an indicative budget of appropriate), Notices of Intention to €850,000 is envisaged for the enter sites on the Register. It will in implementation of the third Heritage cases where no effort is made to clear Plan for Sligo over a five year period, up a site enter details of the Site on the realising an annual programming Register. It can also serve Notices on budget of €170,000/annum. To date, a an owners or occupiers of derelict sites significant proportion of the funding specifying the measures to be taken to for implementation of heritage plan prevent it from becoming or actions has been provided by The continuing to be derelict. The sum Heritage Council through its Heritage provided under this heading meets the Plan Grant Scheme, with matching costs of the Council in dealing with funding being provided by Sligo Derelict Sites. County Council. Every opportunity will be taken to explore external and Heritage and Conservation alternative funding streams for Services heritage projects, particularly under the Rural Development Programme,

~ 67 ~ EU Structural Funds and new Peace IV sourced and allocated to implement Programme. In light of the above, the the actions proposed. delivery of the third County Sligo Heritage Plan 2016-2020 will be subject The heritage budget includes an to adequate resources being sourced allocation of €3,000 towards matching and allocated to implement the funds for the preparation of the Green strategic actions proposed. Fort Conservation Plan.

County Sligo Biodiversity Action Conservation Services Plan 2011-2015 In 2015, the Department of Arts, In December 2010, Sligo County Heritage and the Gaeltacht allocated Council adopted the first Biodiversity €15,000 to Sligo County Council under Action Plan for County Sligo which set the Structures at Risk Grant Scheme out 28 biodiversity actions to be 2015. Following a call for applications undertaken over a five year period. to the Structures at Risk Grant Scheme, An indicative budget of €250,000 was an allocation of €15,000 was awarded envisaged for the implementation of to Dromard Parish Select Vestry for the Biodiversity Action Plan, realising urgent conservation works to the an annual programming budget of Former School House, Christ Church, €50,000/annum. However, due to Beltra, County Sligo. For 2016, budgetary restrictions no funding has allocation of building conservation been in place to implement the Plan to grants for protected structures will be date. In light of the above, the subject to a future announcement of a delivery of the County Sligo grant scheme and county allocations Biodiversity Action Plan 2011-2015 by the Department of Arts, Heritage will be subject to external funding and the Gaeltacht. opportunities and resources being

~ 68 ~ FFiinnaannccee

~ 69 ~ The Income & Expenditure Account and not allocated by service division. Statement brings together all the Note 16 allocates transfers by service revenue related income and division in the same format as Table A expenditure. It shows the surplus of the adopted Local Authority (deficit) for the year. Transfers budget. to/from reserves are shown separately

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT STATEMENT) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2015 Expenditure by Division Gross Net Net Notes Expenditure Income Expenditure Expenditure

2015 2015 2015 2014 € € € € Housing & Building 11,787,481 10,007,419 1,780,063 991,679

Roads Transportation & Safety 22,392,847 17,747,922 4,644,925 4,994,221

Water Services 4,970,927 4,925,922 45,005 139,698

Development Management 4,630,233 1,467,098 3,163,135 2,939,149

Environmental Services 6,356,416 958,199 5,398,217 5,018,281

Recreation & Amenity 4,055,059 368,523 3,686,536 3,585,156

Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 821,480 531,633 289,847 467,565

Miscellaneous Services 8,190,628 3,811,516 4,379,111 5,399,236

Total Expenditure/Income 15 63,205,071 39,818,233

Net cost of Divisions to be funded from 23,386,838 23,534,984

Rates & Local Property Tax

Rates 13,161,447 13,034,073

Local Property Tax 9,993,352 9,243,352

Pension Related Deduction 1,194,041 1,209,275

Surplus/(Deficit) for Year before Transfers 16 962,002 (48,284)

Transfers from/(to) Reserves 14 (302,324) (526,979)

Overall Surplus/(Deficit) for Year 659,678 (575,262)

General Reserve @ 1st January 2015 (26,602,277) (26,027,015)

General Reserve @ 31st December 2015 (25,942,599) (26,602,277)

~ 70 ~ Balance Sheet

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION (BALANCE SHEET) AT 31st DECEMBER 2015 Notes 2015 2014 € € Fixed Assets 1 Operational 431,961,600 428,143,800 Infrastructural 1,186,499,237 1,186,797,687 Community 9,063,942 9,063,942 Non-Operational 19,673,719 19,673,719 1,647,198,498 1,643,679,149

Work in Progress and Preliminary 2 92,384,944 80,056,487 Expenses Long Term Debtors 3 34,702,816 36,954,128

Current Assets Stocks 4 235,804 233,470 Trade Debtors & Prepayments 5 5,573,730 20,034,074 Bank Investments 2,666,053 3,005,150 Cash at Bank 5,255,163 - Cash in Transit 1,625 1,625 13,732,375 23,274,319 Current Liabilities (Amounts falling due within one year) Bank Overdraft - 1,762,250 Creditors & Accruals 6 25,961,447 34,454,490 Finance Leases - 2,826 25,961,447 36,219,566

Net Current Assets / (Liabilities) (12,229,072) (12,945,248)

Creditors (Amounts falling due after more than one year) Loans Payable 7 103,000,765 105,508,672 Finance Leases - - Refundable deposits 8 1,586,458 1,965,359 Other 911,309 1,088,238 105,498,532 108,562,270

Net Assets 1,656,558,654 1,639,182,245

Represented by Capitalisation Account 9 1,647,198,493 1,643,679,144 Income WIP 2 90,200,170 79,463,618 Specific Revenue Reserve 664,372 664,372 General Revenue Reserve (25,942,599) (26,602,277) Other Balances 10 (55,561,783) (58,022,611) 99999 ERROR Account

Balancing Figure -

Total Reserves 1,656,558,654 1,639,182,245

~ 71 ~ Motor Taxation The Motor Taxation Offices in Motor Tax Online County Sligo are located in County Hall, Riverside, Sligo Tel: 071 9111830 and in Teach Laighne, Humbert Street, Tubbercurry, Co Motor Tax Online www.motortax.ie is Sligo Tel: 071 9111719, where an online service provided by the applications for Motor Tax are Department of Transport, Tourism and processed for owners of vehicles Sport and motor tax customers are which are ordinarily kept in County encouraged to tax their cars on line to Sligo. avoid queuing delays. The Dept of During the year 2015, €7,440,753 was Transport Tourism and Sport statistics paid by the registered owners of show Motor Tax transactions on line vehicles to the Motor Tax Offices in for Co. Sligo as follows: Sligo and Tubbercurry for Motor Tax  30% transactions were carried transactions. This was a decrease out online in the Year 2011 from the €8,547,070 recorded for 2014,  35% in 2012 a 13% drop.  39% in 2013

 48% in 2014 Declaring a Vehicle Temporarily off  53% in 2015 the Road

New procedures were introduced in Driving Licences 2013 for declaring a vehicle is The Road Safety Authority assumed temporarily off the road so that full responsibility for the driving customers do not have to pay motor licence service since 2013. The tax for that period. Since 1 October National Driver Licence Service office 2013 it is necessary to declare in in Sligo is advance that a vehicle will be off the located at road and not in use for a period of Ground between 3 and 12 months using Floor, Declaration of Non-Use of a Motor Millenium Vehicle Form RF150 (pdf). The House, declaration of non-use must be made Stephen in the same month that the current Street, Sligo, opposite the Ulster Bank motor tax disc expires. If arrears in – Tel: 076 1087880 and is open from motor tax are due these must be paid 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday in full plus a minimum of 3 months and from 9am to 2pm on Saturdays. motor tax, before a declaration of non- See also www.ndls.ie use can be made.

~ 72 ~ Appendices

Appendix 1 - Staff Retirements in 2015 Name Position Eamon Scanlon Ganger Brendan O'Dowd Clerk of Works Seamus Murrin Driver / Plant Operator B Pat Lynch Driver / Plant Operator B James Canavan Ganger Padraig Mullarkey General Operative Seamus O'Toole Senior Executive Engineer Joanna Dykes School Warden Pauline Brennan Staff Officer John McMunn Handyman Malachy Flynn Handyman Al Keane Senior Executive Technician Redmond Gillen Harbour Officer Tommy McSharry School Warden Mairead Scanlon Assistant Staff Officer Stephen Gilgan Foreman Craft

~ 73 ~ Appendix 2 - Conferences and Seminars attended by Councillors in 2015

Conference/Seminar name Venue Date Finance Act, 2014 Carlingford 23rd to 25th January AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Castlebar 26th February The Councillor and Irish Water Letterkenny 6th to 8th March (Water Services Bill, 2014) AILG Annual Conference Carrickmacross 12th & 13th March LAMA Spring Conference Tuam 10th & 11th April AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Galway 23rd April AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Sligo 16th May Community Projects by Oughterard Oughterard 29th May Conservation and Heritage Company Education and the Law Conference Sligo 30th May E.U. Support Programmes for Irish Regions Clonakilty 5th to 7th June AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Athlone 25th June Local Economic Community Plan Clonakilty 10th to 12th July LCDC Training for Elected Members Cavan 22nd July Planning and Building Regulations Galway 27th & 28th July Changes to Community Development Galway 31st July & 1st August Conference Housing and Regeneration Seminar Maynooth 10th September AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Inchydoney 1st & 2nd October AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Carrick-on-Shannon 5th October LAMA Autumn Seminar Kilkenny 9th & 10th October Budget 2016 Overview Clonakilty 23rd to 25th October AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Carrick-on-Shannon 27th October AILG Training Seminar for Councillors Ballinasloe 5th November Ground water and water pollution and Dublin 14th November Registration of Lobbying Act, 2014 New Regions, New Roles, New Loughrea 20th November Responsibilities

LAMA: Local Authority Members’ Association AILG: Association of Irish Local Government LCDC: Local Community Development Committee

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