Ceantar Bardais Dú n n a nG all

Oifig Riarthóir na gCruinnithe, Aras an Chontae, Leifear.

5ú Eanáir, 20 21

Fógra Cruinnithe

Beidh Cruinniú de Ceantar Bardais Dú n na nG all ar siú l De Má irt 12 ú Eanáir , 20 20 , ag 1 1 .30 r .n. in Ionad Pobail Naomh Eoin Bosco, Bhaile Dhún na nGall.

DO GACH BHALL DEN CEANTAR BARDAS D ÚN NA nGALL

A Chara, larrtar ort bheith i lathair ag an gcruinniú seo Ceantar Bardais Dú n na nG all. Tá Clar an Cruinnithe le seo.

Mise, Ie meas

Padraig O’Sirin Riarth ó ir Cruinnithe

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Municipal District of

Office of Meetings Administrator , County House, .

05 th January 2021

NOTICE OF MEETING

The next Meet ing of the Municipal District of Donegal will be held on Tuesday 12 th January , 20 21 , at 1 1 .30 a .m. in the St John Bosco Community Centre, Donegal Town .

TO EACH MEMBER OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF DONEGAL

Dear Councillor,

You are summoned to attend this meeting of the Municipal District of Donegal. The Agenda is attached.

Yours sincerely,

Pauric Sheerin Meetings Administrator Page No. 1

AGENDA

1. Consideration of Minutes of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 8 th December 2020 .

2. Consideration of Minutes of Workshop of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 14 th December 2020.

3. Update Reports from Council Services: 3.1 Housing & Corporate Services 3.2 Roads / Transportation 3.3 Economic Development , Information Systems and Emergency Services 3.4 Environment Service s 3.5 Community Development 3.6 Planning Services

4. Public Consultation of the Review of the National Development Plan

Motions 5. Cllr Michael McMahon “ I am asking for our fire and emergency section to complete a full design plan and costing for two new fire stations one for and other in and forward it to the department of Housing and Local Government prior to delegation from the Donegal MD meeting to the minister. ”

6. Cllr Tom Conaghan “ That the Environmental Section erect a barrier at the Donegal Town Recycling Centre as a safety measure for patrons using the facility. ”

7. Cllr Barry Sweeny “That this Municipal District works to fast track the Ballyshannon/Belleek Greenway to a shovel ready stage in light of upcoming funding opportunities and the l evel of groundwork already undertaken locally.”

Questions

8. Cllr Michael McMahon “ When would it be possible to have a meeting with all relevant departments and agencies in regards to the illegal dumping which was particularly bad over the Christmas period ? ”

9. Cllr Barry Sweeny Can the Roads engineer assess the busy junction and pedestrian crossing at Spar shop in Ballyshannon to improve safety and in this area. Driver behaviour is an issue here and perhaps consideration should be given to a "yellow box" or a "courtesy" parking space to suit elderly shoppers or taxi pick - ups ?

Page No. 2

10. Date of Next Meeting (s) / Workshop ( s )

- MD Meeting at 11.30 am on Tuesday the 9 th February 2021 (as per standing orders)

Page No. 3

Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

MINUTES OF MEETING OF MUNICIPAL DISTRIC T OF DONEGAL HELD AT 11.30 A . M. ON TUESDAY THE 08 TH DECEM BER 2020 IN THE ST JOHN BOSCO CENTRE, DONEGA L TOWN

MDD/ 152 / 20 MEMBERS PRESENT Cllr Michéal Naughton , Cathaoirleach Cllr Noel Jordan Cllr Niamh Kennedy Cllr Tom Conaghan Cllr Barry Sweeny

MDD/ 1 53 / 20 OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE Mr. Garry Martin, Director Designate, Municipal District of Donegal Mr . Pauric Sheerin , Area Manager, Municipal District of Donegal Mr. Mark Sweeney, A/Area Manager, Roads/Transportation M s. Aideen Quinn , Assistant Planner, Planning M s . Fiona Kelly , Staff Officer, Environment M r . Ciaran Martin , Economic Development Officer, Economic Development Unit Mr. Paddy Doherty, Divisional Manager, Community Development Mr. Enda Monaghan, Senior Staff Officer, Housing & Corporate Services Ms . Caroline Britton, A/Staff Officer, Housing & Corporate Services

MDD/154/20 APOLOGIES Cllr Michael McMahon Ms. Suzanne Bogan, Waste Awareness Officer, Environment Section

MDD/155/20 COVID - 19 PROTOCOLS Cllr Naug hton reminded all attendees of the Covid - 19 protocols in place.

MDD/ 1 5 6 / 20 VOTES OF SYMPATHY A vote of sympathy was passed in respect of the following recent death s : -

The late Ms Maureen Sweeney, mother of our colleague and A/Area Manager, Roads and T ransportation Donegal MD, Mark Sweeney

The late Michael McClintock, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, son of our colleague, Dearn McClintock, formerly of Environment Section.

The late Mary Patricia Murphy, , Co. Mayo, mother of our colleague Donal Murphy, Roads Office, Donegal M.D

The late Hugh Cassidy, Leghowney, Donegal Town.

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

MDD/ 1 5 7 / 20 CONFIRMATION OF MINU TES OF THE MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT O F DONEGAL HEL D ON 13 TH OCTO BER 2020

On the proposal of Cllr Conaghan , seconded by Cllr Jordan , the Min utes of the M eeting of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 13 th Octo ber 2020 were confirmed .

MDD/ 1 5 8 /20 CONFIRMATION OF MINU TES OF THE MD BUDGET WORKSHOP OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT O F DONEGAL HEL D ON 0 5 TH OCTOB ER 2020

On the proposal of Cllr Swe en y , seconded by Cllr Jordan , the Minutes of the MD Budget Workshop of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 0 5 th Octo ber 2020 were confirmed.

MDD/ 1 5 9 /20 CONFIRMATION OF MINU TES OF THE BUDGET MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT O F DONEGAL HEL D ON 30 TH OCTO BER 2020

On the proposal of Cllr Conaghan , seconded by Cllr Kennedy , the Minutes of the Budget Meeting of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 30 th October 2020 were confirmed.

MDD/ 1 60 /20 CONFIRMATION OF MINU TES OF THE WORKSHOP OF THE MUN ICIPAL DISTRICT OF D ONEGAL HEL D ON 30 TH OCTO BER 2020

On the proposal of Cllr Conaghan , seconded by Cllr Kennedy , the Minutes of the Workshop of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 30 th Octo ber 2020 were confirmed.

MDD/ 1 6 1 /20 CONFIRMATION OF MIN UTES OF THE WORKSHOP OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT O F DONEGAL HEL D ON 11 TH NOVEM BER 2020

On the proposal of Cllr Jordan , seconded by Cllr Sweeny , the Minutes of the Workshop of the Municipal District of Donegal held on the 11 th Novem ber 2020 were confirmed.

MDD/ 1 62 / 20 HOUSING CORPORATE SERVICES REPORT

CORPORATE SERVICES Mr Sheerin referred to the enclosed Schedule of 2021 MD meetings and sought approval for the continuation of the meeting arrangements for the first quarter of 2021. On the proposal of Cllr Conaghan , seconded by Cllr Jordan it was agreed to continue to hold the MD meetings in the St John Bosco Centre for the months of January, February and March 2021.

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

HOUSING SERVICES

Progress reports on Casual Vacancies , Grants, Loans , Tenant Purchase Scheme 2016, Housing Capital Programme , Approved Housing Bodies Development, Housing Assistance Payments /Private Rented Inspections , Housing Need and Lease & Repair Scheme Members noted the update reports as presented by Mr Sheerin . Mr Sheerin informed Members that works are ongoing in terms of casual vacancies and it is anticipated that additional properties would be offer e d and let prior to the end of the month. Mr Sheerin also informed Members that extensive work has taken place on the h ousing grant applications and these grants are now up - to - date .

Proposed Section 183 - Proposal to dispose of two plots of ground at Harbour View Drive Housing Scheme, Killybegs Mr Sheerin presented the details of the proposed Section 183 – Proposal to dispose of two plots of ground at Harbour View Drive Housing Scheme, Killybegs. On the proposal of Cllr Kennedy, seconded by Cllr Sweeny, Members confirmed their agreement to the proposed Section 183 and noted the matter would be on the Agenda for the Plenary Council me eting in the New Year.

Phase 2 – Energy Efficiency Retrofitting Programme Cllr Sweeny sought an update on the proposed timelines for the implementation of Phase 2 of the Energy Efficiency Retrofitting Programme, namely the replacement of windows and doors. Mr Sheerin advised that earlier in the year a county - wide submission went to the Department for funding for the replacement of windows and doors. To date no funding approval has been received from the Department for Phase 2 as the Phase 1 works which ar e completed substantially must be completed first. Mr Sheerin further advised that should funding be obtained in the early part of 2021 , priority will be given to houses with wooden, single glazed windows.

Repair & Lease Scheme Summary Cllr Jordan noted the high volume of rejection figures with the Repair & Lease Scheme and referred to the need to increase the level of funding. Mr Sheerin advised that there are proposals currently being discussed by the Department to increase the level of funding from €40,000 to €60,000 and noted the increased funding has the potential to provide a more realistic budget for the upgrade of some properties. Cllr Jordan welcomed the proposed increase and suggested that the figure should actually be in the region of €80,000.

Housing Development Cllr M Naughton welcomed the housing development within the Donegal MD area, particularly the 34 units at Drumrooske and the proposed €11m scheme in Bundoran. Mr Sheerin advised that the

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

housing units at Drumrooske are due to be completed within the first quarter of 2021.

MDD/ 1 63 / 20 ROADS / TRANSPORTATI ON SERVICES REPORT

20 20 Road w orks Programme Status Report Members noted the update repor t on the 2020 Road W orks Programme as presented by Mr Sweeney . Mr Sweeney inf ormed the Members the Roads Maintenance and the Restoration Improvement Programme has been completed and the footpath and drainage works will be further progressed in the early part of the New Year. Mr Sweeney wished to acknowledge the work of the Roads T eam, who despite the COVID - 19 related 7 week reduction in the work programme and difficult working conditions ha ve progressed a high volume of projects .

Local Improvement Schemes Cllr Kennedy informed the meeting that the Councillors receive a high volu me of calls regarding the Local Improvement Schemes and recommended a letter issue to the Department seeking an increase in the level of funding. Cllr Jordan concurred with this approach and queried the total number of new LIS for the Donegal MD . Cllr Naug hton advised that he has been in contact with Minister McConalogue and Senator Blaney regarding additional LIS funding and also recommended a letter issue to the Department . Mr Sweeney agreed to write to the Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine regard ing increased LIS funding. Mr Sweeney submitted that 15 additional applications were received since the previous deadline.

Council Yard at the old Killybegs Fire Station Cllr Kennedy sought an update on the Council Yard at the old Killybegs Fire Stati on. Mr Sweeney advised that due to funding constraints no progression has been made at this juncture.

Service Lanes in Housing Estates Cllr Jordan advised that he recently took a motion to the P lenary C ouncil . As part of his motion, Cllr Jordan had requ ested that an audit is conducted o n the existing service lanes within Housing Estates. Cllr Jordan is aware of housing estates where elderly members of the community are unable to receive coal deliveries. Mr Sweeney advised , to date , he has no t received a request for the completion of an audit, however, if same is received the audit will be completed.

Donegal Town Cllr Conaghan c ommended the works carried out recently outside Scoil Aodh Rua agus Nuala in Donegal Town and the erection of the lights on T irco naill Bridge. Cllr Conaghan queried was there plans in place for the erection of lights at the Pier in Donegal Town. Mr

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

Sweeney submitted that a request for funding for low energy lighting at the Pier is being progressed.

Road Surfacing Works Cllr S weeny commended the work of the Roads Team and the interim works carried out on the Rossnowlagh Road. Cllr Sweeny requested a review of the road surfac e at Clontyseer, Sminver, Lower Abbey Road and Moy Road. Mr Sweeney agreed to consider these areas.

Li tter Bins Cllr Sweeny recommended damaged dog fowling bins should be replaced on the Jim White Road, the footbridge under the N15 and out the Bundoran Road , as these are areas that experience high volumes of pedestrians walking dogs .

Signage Cllr Sweeny submitted that the traffic entering Ballyshannon from the Belleek Road can travel at a higher speed than the 50k limit and recommended that the existing speed signage be replaced with more visual signage. Mr Sweeney advised that signage at this location is of a standard size and agreed to raise the issue of speed with the An Garda Siochana.

Footpath Works In terms of the footpath works, Cllr Sweeny queried if an external contractor could be procured to progress the projects and Cllr Jordan recommended th e use of bitmac rather than concrete for durability purposes. Mr Sweeney advised that the Roads Section have the resources available during the quieter months of the year to progress footpath works and advised that the use of bitmac is advantageous in cer tain circumstances. Mr Sweeney further advised that once the current three year footpath programme is complete, there is no indication of the future level of funding that will be allocated to the footpath programme.

Walkability Audit Cllr Sweeny sought a n update on the walkability audit for Ballyshannon. Mr Sweeney agreed to follow up with the Social Inclusion Officer.

Ongoing Donegal MD Projects Cllr Naughton welcomed that the proposed safety measures at Laghey have gone through the design stage and wa s delighted to see the progression of the N56 upgrade works and hoped that the works to t he Fintra Bridge would progress as quickly as possible.

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

Active Travel Measures Cllr Naughton queried the status of a number of the Active Travel Measures Schemes. Mr Sween e y advised a number of designs are required to be completed follow ing which contact will be made with the relevant landowners.

MDD/ 1 64 /20 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT , INFORMATION SYSTEM S & EMERGENCY SERVICES R EPORT

M r Ciaran Maritn, Economic Dev elopment Officer , was in attendance to represent the Economic Development, Information Systems and Emergency Services Directorate. Members noted the reports as circulated with the agenda dealing with the following updates : -

1. Economic Development a. Economi c Development Unit b. Tourism Marketing Unit c. Research & Policy Unit d. Strategic Funding Unit 2. Local Enterprise Office 3. Information Systems 4. Emergency Services a. Fire Service b. Civil Defence

Regeneration Projects Cllr Sweeny commended the work of the Economic Developm ent Unit, particularly, the Buy Donegal Initiative and the creation of the Donegal Brand. Cllr Sweeny noted the importance of economic development when delivering regeneration projects and queried if the Economic Development Unit work in collaboration wit h the Regeneration Team. Mr G Martin advised the Economic Development Unit is committed to working with the Regeneration Team and a number of the personnel sit on working groups. Mr C Martin noted the importance of an enterprise emphasis when delivering these types of projects.

MDD/1 65 /20 ENVIRONMENT SERVICES REPORT

M s Fiona Kelly presented the update reports for the Environment Section, as circulated with the Agenda dealing with the following matters: -

 Waste and Litter Management - School Bikes Africa – Great Success! - National Reuse Month - October - Green Schools - Shortlisted – Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

 Coastal Management - Beach Maintenace - Beach Ringbuoy Inspections - Fin Swim - Bundoran Public Conveniences - Bundoran Lifeguard St ation – Improvement Works - Rossnowlagh Beach Lifeguard Stations

A number of comments/queries were dealt with as follows: -

Waste Collection C I lr Naughton queried if there had been any progress on his recent query regarding the recycling of paint cans. Ms Kelly agreed to follow up on the date for the next collection and advised that arrangements are being put in place for the col lection of paint cans at local C ivic C entres on an annual basis.

Bottle Bank Facilities Cllr Naughton highlighted the poor road s urface at the b ottle b ank s tation in Donegal Town. Ms Kelly advised discussions are ongoing regarding identifying an alternative location for the Donegal Town bottle bank facilities. Cllr Sweeny welcomed the replacement of broken bottle bank bins and qu eried if there was plans in place for plastic bottle collections. Ms Kelly advised that the collection of plastic bottles are serviced via the household waste system and was not aware of any plans for the collection of same at bottle bank stations. Ms Ke lly was aware of an unsuccessful trial of plastic bottle collections in Sligo and was not aware of any other counties participating in this service. Ms Kelly submitted that the Minister is due to make an announcement on the ‘Take Back’ Scheme shortly.

Irish Water Cllr Jordan informed the meeting of an incident at the weekend that resulted in households from the Kilcar, Ca rrick and Glencolmcille area having no access to running water. Following contact with the local Water Office, confirmation was rece ived that the water shortage was not the result of a water burst but a problem with the new treatment plant at Owenteskna . Unfortunately Irish Water could not be contacted , other than by e - mail over the weekend , and no response was received until Monday m orning. Cllr Jordan called on Irish Water to forward a report on this incident to the Donegal MD. Cllr Kennedy concurred with Cllr Jordan and also referred to an odour emanating from the treatment plant at Roshine in Killybegs and request ed that this iss ue to be also taken back to Irish Water.

Lifeguards Cllr Sweeny noted the importance of ensuring lifeguards are available on our beaches during the busy season.

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

MDD/ 1 66 /20 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMEN T AND PLANNING SERVICES

Community Development Mr Doherty , Divisional Manager , Community Development & Planning Services was in attendance to represent the Community Development Division . Members noted the Community Development reports as circulated with the agenda dealing with the following; -

. Town & Village R enewal – Donegal MD - Donegal Town - Glencolmcille - Killybegs - Rossnowlagh . Town & Villages Accelerated Measures Round 1 - Bundoran – Round 1 - Donegal Town – Round 2 . Playground Maintenance . Peace IV Shared Spaces Project - P layground in Bruckless . Sliabh Liag Develop ment Project . Leader/RDP Programme Update . Walks & Trails Update . Community Enhancement Programme – Community Centres and Buildings . Age Friendly Programme Update . YOURS Project . Donegal Youth Council

Pla yground Maintenance Cllr Sweeny highlighted an issue with the fence and ground surface of a playground . Mr Doherty advised to submit any issues to the office by e - mail.

Community Enhancement Programme Cllr Naughton queried funding availability for community centres and buildings in Pettigo. Mr Doherty submitte d that this area received two allocations under the 2020 Community Enhancement Programme.

Planning Services Ms Quinn presented the Planning Service Reports as circulated with the Agenda dealing with the following: -

 Development Applications  Enforcement  Pl anning Clinics  Regeneration R eport – Appendix A  Central Planning Unit 8

Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

- County Development Plan 2018 - 2024  Weekly Lists of Applications & Decisions

Killybegs Town Centre Cllr Kennedy sought an update on the ERDF scheme for the Killybegs Town Centre. In res ponse to same, Ms Quinn noted as per the report from the Regeneration & Development Team that the tenders for the Architect L ed Design Team services are currently being evaluated.

Planning Workshop Cllr Naughton noted the high volume of rejected planning applications and queried when an additional workshop will be arranged with Architects. Ms Quinn agreed to obtain an update on same.

Building Control & Taking in Charge Ms Quinn presented the Building Control & Taking in Charge Report as circulated with the Agenda dealing with the following: -

 Building Control Activity o Commencement Notices o Disability Access Certificates  Taking in Charge of Private Residential Estates

Taking in Charge of Private Residential Estates Approval was sought from Members to comp lete the following Taking in Charge process : -

Old Mill, Pettigo On the proposal of C ouncillor Naughton, seconded by Councillor Sweeny it wa s resolved that the Council make an order in accordance with Section 207 of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) for the creation of a public right of way over the estate roads within the housing estate known as Old Mill, Pettigo , as set out in the attached maps, to enable it to proceed with the taking in charge of the estate.

On the proposal of Councillor Naughton, seconded by Councillor Sweeney it is resolved that the Council make an order in accordance with Section 11 (1) of the Roads Act, 1993 to declare the estate roads within the housing estate known as Old Mill, Pettigo, to be a public road and note the consequential provisions contained in Section 180(4) of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended) whereby this Council will also take in charge the water services infrastructure and the public open spaces or car park within the attendant grou nds of the development and will subsequently transfer the water services within the estate to Irish Water.

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

Roseville Heights, Killybegs On the proposal of Councillor Kennedy , seconded by Councillor Jordan it wa s resolved that the Council make an order in accordance Section 11 (1) of the Roads Act, 1993 to declare the estate roads within the housing estate Roseville Heights, Killybegs to be a public road and note the consequential provisions contained in Section 180(4) of the Planning and Development Act, 2 000 (as amended) whereby this Council will also take in charge the water services infrastructure and the public open spaces or car park within the attendant grounds of the development and will subsequently transfer the water services within the estate to I rish Water.

Ard na Carraige, Carrick On the proposal of Councillor Kennedy, seconded by Councillor Sweeney it wa s resolved that the Council make an order in accordance Section 11 (1) of the Roads Act, 1993 to declare the estate roads within the housing es tate Ard na Carraige, Carrick to be a public road and note the consequential provisions contained in Section 180(4) of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended) whereby this Council will also take in charge the water services infrastructure and t he public open spaces or car park within the attendant grounds of the development and will subsequently transfer the water services within the estate to Irish Water.

MDD/1 67 /20 DISCUSSION ON THE COMPILATION OF A LIST OF POTENTIAL TOURISM LOCATIONS, H IDDEN GEMS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION ACTIVITIE S THROUGHOUT THE DIS TRICT

On the proposal of Cllr Kennedy , seconded by Cllr Jordan the following motion was adopted; -

"That this MD and its Cllrs work together to compile a thorough list of potential tourism location s, hidden gems and outdoor recreational activities throughout the district. To highlight the potential of the region including the lesser known areas to be in a position to prepare for future funding mechanisms going forward. To start working on this dur ing the winter period and to have an initial list by Summer 2021. This list to remain open to all new potential projects..”

Members were given a response to the motion by the Director of Economic Development, Information Systems & Emergency Services

In speaking to t his motion, Cllr Kennedy submitted that the Council are currently progressing a number of important tourism strategies and European funded projects such as Atlantic On Bike, TIDE and TrailGazers and noted that Donegal has so much to offer resi dents and visitors to the county. In order to promote our county far and wide, Cllr Kennedy asked for all sections to work together and make

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

ready a robust action plan to highlight our existing assets and identify projects for future funding programmes. Cllr Jordan concurred with Cllr Kennedy and noted the similarity with this motion to the one submitted by Cllr M T Gallagher regarding identifying ‘7 Wonders’ within each MD. Mr Martin submitted this motion was timely, especially in light of the recent ad dition of a new budget line within the Revenue budget for micro tourism product offerings. Mr Martin further submitted that more emphasis is now placed on staycations and the Tourism Unit is working with all sectors in the County to enhance their product offerings.

MDD/1 68 /20 DISCUSSION ON THE CALL TO MINISTER OF STATE FOR HERITAGE & ELECTORAL REFORM TO FUND THE ‘ THATCH REPAIR SCHEME’ ON AN ANNUAL BASIS

On the proposal of Cllr Sweeny , seconded by Cllr Kennedy the following motion was adopted; -

"That this Municipal District calls on Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, to fund the Donegal Heritage office led “Thatch Repair Scheme” on an annual basis and that this project be evaluated as a pilot scheme to be rolled out i n other counties nationally.”

Members were given a response to the motion by Divisional Manager, Cultural Services .

Cllr Sweeny wished to congratulate the Heritage Office on their recent award from Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government for the Thatch Repair Grant Scheme. Cllr Sweeny highlighted the importance of this heritage and was dismayed at the level of funding available to repair our existing structures. Cllr Sweeny also noted the importance of maintaining experts in this field and the n eed to pass on the relevant skills to the younger generations. Cllr Sweeny submitted that there is difficulty obtaining insurance and mortgages on thatched structures and is aware that across the border in Northern Ireland owners of thatched cottages can obtain 100% funding for repairs and are also provided support for insurance costs. Cllr Sweeny called on a letter to issue to Minister Malcolm Noonan to provide financial supports for the Thatch Repair Scheme. Cllr Kennedy concurred with Cllr Sweeny and noted that the previous funding could only support patching repairs.

MDD/ 169 /20 Old Abbey Graveyard, Donegal Town

The following Question was submitted by Cllr Conaghan ; -

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

“ In relation to the Old Abbey Graveyard, Donegal Town, Can the Heritage Office pr ovide funding and or assistance to rectify the wall at the entrance to the graveyard at the Pier side? It has been cordoned off for health & safety reasons ?

Cllr Conaghan received a response from the Divisional Manager Cultural Services in relation to th e above.

MDD/1 70 /20 Recycling Banks at Donegal Town

The following Question was submitted by Cllr Conaghan ; -

“ What are the Environmental Services immediate plans for the recycling centre in Donegal Town,how often is it inspected and how often is the rec ycling collected? At the moment its upkeep is unacceptable ”

Cllr Conaghan received a response from the Senior Engineer , Water and Environment in relation to the above.

MDD/ 1 71 /20 Request for insurance scheme for traditional thatched structures

The foll owing Question was submitted by Cllr Sweeny ; -

“ Can DCC heritage office engage with the Insurance Federation of Ireland to request a reasonable scheme of insurance for thatched buildings be examined in the interest of making ownership and preservation of t raditional thatched structures a viable option and, by extension, halt the decline of these traditional structures, the craft of thatching and the growing of materials. ?

Cllr Sweeny received a response from Divisional Manager Cultural Services in relation to the above.

MDD/ 1 72 /20 Percent for Art Scheme as part of N56 Mountcharles to Inver Road Scheme

The following Question was submitted by Cllr Sweeny ; -

“ Has progress been made in relation to the commissioning of a public art project under the Percent fo r Art scheme as part of the N56 Mountcharles to Inver Road scheme?

Cllr Sweeny received a response from Area Manager Roads and Transportation in relation to the above. MDD/ 1 73 / 20 Best Wishes In concluding the meeting, Cllr Naughton on behalf of the Donega l MD wished to convey best wishes to Cllr M Mahon and wished him a speedy recovery.

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Minutes of Meeting of Municipal District of Donegal on 08 th Dec ember 2020

Cllr Naughton also wished all attendees a happy and safe Christmas.

MDD/ 1 74 / 20 Date of next Meeting/Workshops

 Fire Service Workshop Monday , 14 th December 2020 at 11.30am in the Peter Kennedy Chamber, Donegal Public Service Centre

 MD Donegal Meeting as per Standing Orders Tuesday, 12 th January 2020 at 11.30am in St John Bosco Centre, Donegal Town

This concluded the business of the meeting .

______Area Manager Cathaoirleach Municipal District of Donegal M unicipal District of Donegal

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Workshop - Municipal District of Donegal on 14 th December 2020

Minutes of Workshop of the Municipal District of Donegal held at 11.30hrs on Monday the 14 th Dec. 2020 in the Peter Kennedy Chamber, Donegal PSC.

Members Present: Cllr. Mich eá l Naughton, Cathaoirleach Cllr . Noel Jordan Cllr . Barry Sweeny Cllr . Tom Conaghan Cllr . Niamh Kennedy Cllr . Michael McMahon

Officials i n Attendance : Mr. Garry Martin, Director Designate, Municipal District of Donegal Mr . Joseph McTaggart, Chief Fire Officer Mr . Kevin McGarvey, Assistant Chief Fire Officer

Minutes

Chief Fire Officer Joseph McTaggart delivered a detailed presentation to the Members which set out the background to the current Fire Station Project, the conclusions arising out of the Strategic Re port by ORH , and finally his recommendation as Chief Fire Officer on how the project should progress.

Members expressed their dissatisfaction with the Chief Fire Officer’s recommendation and reiterated that it was the clear wish of Donegal that two new fire stations would be constru cted in both Ballyshannon and Bundoran.

After a lengthy conversation it was agreed that Garry Martin , in conjunction with An Cathaoirleach Micheál Naughton , would draft a letter seeking a meeting between the Minister for Housing and a delegation from the Municipal District of Donegal in order to ma ke the case for two stations in - person to the Minister .

It was agreed that t he letter would reflect the clear sentiments of the Members but would also be broadly aligned with the recommendations contained in th e ORH Report.

T his concluded the business of the Workshop .

______Area Manager , Cathaoirleach, Municipal District of Donegal Municipal District of Donegal

1

Municipal District of Donegal 12 th January 2021 ______Housing & Corporate ______

REPORT

1. Casual Vacancies 2. Housing Grants 3. Housing Loans 4. TP Applications 5. Housing Capital Update 6. HAP Tena ncies 7. Private Rented Inspections 8. Household Composition by MD & Area 9. Lease & Repair Scheme Summary 10. Consideration of amending Standing Orders to provide for remote meetings

Area BED Dwelling Vacated Comment 1 Keys returned 09/05/2018 Contract tendered Ballintra 1 Tenant Deceased on 10/6/2019 Contract tendered Ballintra 1 Tenant deceased - keys returned 19/06/2020 Referred for Assessment Ballintra 1 Tenant Deceased on 09/01/2020 2020 Voids Programme SD Ballintra 3 Tenancy terminated and keys returned 06/08/2020 Referred for Assessment Ballyshannon 3 Keys returned 13/01/2020 2020 Voids Programme SD Ballyshannon 3 Tenant Deceased - Mar 2018 2020 Voids Programme LTV Ballyshannon 3 House Fire - property vacant from 29/01/2020 2020 Voids Programme SD Ballyshannon 3 Keys returned 08/07/2019 2020 Voids Programme LTV Ballyshannon 3 Tenant Deceased - April 2020 Referred for Engineers feasibility report Ballyshannon 2 Keys returned by 25/06/2020 2020 Voids Programme SD Bundoran 2 Tenant deceased Oct 2020. Keys returned on 23/12/2020 Referred for Assessment Donegal Town 1 Tenant deceased - keys returned 28/06/2018 Offered and declined - further offer to issue Donegal Town 3 Keys returned on 21/8/2020 Works to be completed Dec 2020 Dunkineely 3 25/08/2017 2020 Voids Programme LTV Dunkineely 3 15/12/2017 2020 Voids Programme LTV Killybegs 2 Tenant offered specific adapted accommodation Referred for Assessment Glencolmcille 3 Keys returned 08/01/2020 2020 Voids Programme SD Pettigo 1 Tenant deceased - keys returned 23/04/2020 2020 Voids Programme SD

HOUSING GRANTS

YEAR TOTAL APPROVED REFUSED \ FURTHER PENDING RECEIVED CANCELLED\INVALID INFO HO 2019 85 64 17 0 4 HO 2020 75 64 3 1 7

YEAR TOTAL APPROVED REFUSED \ REAPPLIED UNDER FURTHER REF. REF. To PENDING RECEIVED CANCELLED\INVALD HM GRANT INFO. TO OT ENGINEER HD 2019 34 14 11 4 0 0 0 5 HD 2020 39 22 2 0 3 1 0 11

YEAR TOTAL APPROVED REFUSED \ REAPPLIED UNDER FURTHER PENDING RECEIVED CANCELLED\INVALID HD GRANT INFO HM 2019 56 31 9 8 0 8 HM 2020 42 26 3 5 2 6

HOUSING LOANS

YEAR TOTAL APPROVED APPROVED REFUSED \ PENDING Further RECEIVED IN PRINCIPLE CANCELLED information Housing Loans 2019 13 0 0 13 0 0 Housing Loans 2020 10 3 0 4 1 2

Tenant Purchase Applications 2019 - 2020 No. of Apps Incomplete Open Refused/ Offer letters Completed Year Received Returned Applications Not Eligible Issued 2019 9 1 0 0 8 4 2020 7 0 2 0 5 0

Housing Capital Update Report Donegal Municipal District M eeting 12 th January 2021

1. Social Housing Developments – Construction Schemes

Donegal County Council is currently progressing the following Social Housing developments within the Donegal Municipal District :

Location Status No. of Units Construction Stage Donegal Town Construction works ongoing onsite. Scheme consists of 24 social housing units and 2 no. group homes . Works were 2 4 suspended due to Covid 19 and recommence d 18 th May 2020. Expected completion date Q1 2021. Killybegs Complete 9 Sub Total 3 3 Design Stage Donegal Town Phase 3 Preparation of tender documentation. (Part 8 approved). 2 4 Bundoran Phase 1 Preparation of tender documentation. (Part 8 approved). 4 2 Sub Total 6 6 Total 99

In tandem with the above construction programme, the Council is actively pursuing the acquisition of lands suitable for housing purposes, in towns and villages where there is currently not a soci al housing solution available.

2. House Acquisition Programme

D onegal County Council has acquired , or is in the process of acquiring , properties under the House Acquisition Programme . In the Donegal Municipal District during 2018 - 20 20 , 5 properties were purchased under this programme. T here is 1 further acq uisition which is currently progressing through conveyance.

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

3. Social Housing through Turnkey Acquisition

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

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

Stage 4 approval has now been obtained from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG) for a turnkey development at Rockview, Ballyshannon. The development which will be delivered by Parkfort Developments Ltd. will comprise 5 no. 2 b edroom units. Council staff is currently working to complete the acquisition of the properties with VP McMullins Solicitors following which t he de v elopment will commence on - site and M embers will be kept informed of progress.

Council officials are continuing to dialogue with Developers with regard to additional valid proposals for Donegal Municipal District in Donegal Town. Members will be fully informed of these proposals upon receipt of final departmental approval.

4. Lands / Property for Socia l Housing Purposes

The Council is actively seeking lands in towns where there is a social housing need where there are currently no viable housing delivery options. Offers to acquire land have been made in a number of towns and Members will be kept infor med.

The Council also recently advertised for expressions of interest for parcels of land, derelict sites / buildings with the potential to deliver social housing. A significant response has been received, right across the five Municipal Districts and t he submissions are currently being assessed .

Approved Housing Bodies Developments - Donegal Municipal District

Funding Programme Scheme / Project No of Approved Current Status Name Units Housing Body

Drumrooske, Construction works ongoing as part of overall housing CAS Construction Donegal Town 10 Oaklee development at Drumrooske

HAP/PRD HAP Tenancies

Municipal District Number Donegal 245 726 138 275 447 Sub Total 1831 Tenancies Closed 1822 Overall Total 3653

2020 Private Rented Dwelling Inspections (MDD) 51

Municipal District Waiting Transfer Total List (Net List Gross Need) Need Donegal 173 223 396 Ballintra 3 6 9 Ballyshannon 33 43 76 Bruckless 4 2 6 Bundoran 30 52 82 Carrick 4 2 6 Donegal 67 83 150 Drimarone 0 0 0 Dunkineely 1 3 4 Frosses 2 2 4 Glencolmcille 4 0 4 Inver 0 0 0 Kilcar 2 2 4 Killybegs 15 15 30 Laghey 3 5 8 Mountcharles 4 6 10 Pettigo 1 2 3 Total 173 223 396

Updated 30.12.2020

Repair & Lease Scheme Summary Applications Awaiting MD Received No. of Units assessment Rejected Progressing Total Inishowen 17 20 1 16 0 17 Donegal 15 39 1 14 0 15 Glenties 15 15 0 15 0 15 Letterkenny 20 25 5 15 0 20 Stranorlar 17 33 5 12 0 17 Total 84 132 12 72 0 84

Updated 22/12/2020

DRAFT

DONEGAL MUNICIPAL DISTRICT PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO STANDING ORDERS REGULATING THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT IN HOLDING REMOTE MEETINGS

Insert new Standing Order No. 81 as follows –

“81. Remote meetings

(1) This Standing Order applies to remote meetings of the Municipal District which consist of a conference between some or all of the Municipal District members who are not all in one place but each of them is able (directly or by means of electronic communications technology) to speak to each of the others and to be heard by each of the others as provided for by Section 29 of the Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 and the designation of the Council for the purposes of that Section by the Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 (Section 29) (Local Authorities) (Designation) Order 2020 – SI No. 445 of 2020.

(2) In this Standing Order –

(a) “Remote meeting(s)” shall be construed in accordance with paragraph (1) above and cognate words and phrases such as “remotely”, “remotely attending”, “remote access”, “remote participant” etc. shall be construed as referring to access to a meeting by means of electronic communications technology.

(b) References to members attending physically at a meeting means attendance in the same room as the Meetings Administrator.

(c) References to a meeting shall be to a remote meeting unless otherwise qualified.

(3) Meetings may be held at -

• the Donegal Public Services Centre or other Council buildings • an external venue used to accommodate meetings of the Council • one or more Council buildings or rooms, linked remotely • an electronic, digital or virtual location, web address or a conference call telephone number • a combination of the above to provide for physical and/or remote attendance by elected members

Page 1 of 4

Management of Remote Meetings (4) Members should notify the Meetings Administrator in advance if they intend to attend the meeting remotely.

(5) Any member participating in a meeting remotely must, when they are speaking, be able to be heard and seen by all other members in attendance, and the remote participant must, in turn, be able to hear and see those other members participating.

(6) The Cathaoirleach will at the outset, and on any reconvening of a meeting, call a roll call of remotely attending members and ensure that they can hear and see those in attendance. Any member participating remotely should also confirm at the outset and at any reconvening of the meeting that they can hear and see the proceedings. Members should inform the Meetings Administrator or other person designated by him if they lose connection.

(7) The attendance of all members at the meeting whether physically or remotely will be recorded by the Meetings Administrator.

(8) The normal quorum requirements for meetings generally as set out in Standing Order 11 will also apply to a remote meeting. Members attending physically and remotely will together constitute a quorum.

(9) Each member participating remotely has personal responsibility to ensure and confirm to the Meetings Administrator, that there are no other persons present with him/her who are not entitled to be either hearing or seeing consideration of such items, and/or recording the proceedings contrary to Standing Order No. 64.

Meeting Procedures

(10) The Meetings Administrator will coordinate the facilitation of the meeting. An appropriate official designated by him will assume responsibility for controlling the conferencing technology employed for remote access and attendance, and to administer the member interaction, engagement and connections on the instruction of the Cathaoirleach.

(11) Members should allow sufficient time to establish a connection prior to the commencement of the meeting to allow themselves and the Meetings Administrator the opportunity to test the connection.

(12) The Cathaoirleach, at the beginning of the meeting will explain the protocol for remote members’ participation:

(a) Confirm details of the Municipal District Meeting which is being held remotely e.g. “This is the 202 ordinary meeting of the Donegal Municipal District ” (b) Advise that the attendees’ microphones should be muted unless the

Page 2 of 4 Cathaoirleach indicates that they may speak. (c) Set out that Members or Officials must notify the Cathaoirleach if they wish to contribute. (d) In accordance with Standing Order No. 64 that recording of the meeting is prohibited.

(13) In accordance with Standing Order 38 the Cathaoirleach is the sole judge of order in the Municipal District meetings and has power to deal with any matter not covered by Standing Orders. The Cathaoirleach will therefore have the power to adjudicate on any issue that arises in relation to the introduction of the facility for remote meetings by this Standing Order but will at all times strive to ensure so far as possible that members attending remotely enjoy the same level of participation and rights as those attending physically at a meeting.

Voting

(14) A vote taken remotely in accordance with this Standing Order constitutes a valid vote towards the decision of the Council. All voting at a remote meeting shall be by way of roll call vote with every member being called upon to vote individually and their vote will then be recorded by the Meetings Administrator.

(15) Where a member loses connectivity during a vote, every effort will be made to re-establish a connection. During this time, the voting roll call will continue. If a connection has not been restored by the end of the roll call, the member will be contacted and a period of five minutes will be allowed for him/her to vote by telephone call to the Meetings Administrator and confirmed by speaking to the Cathaoirleach and subject thereto , the vote will be recorded accordingly.

Leaving a Remote Meeting

(16) Members leaving the meeting are required to make every effort to inform the Cathaoirleach by appropriate means that they are exiting the meeting to ensure there is a Quorum remaining and so that it is not presumed to be a loss in connectivity.

Declaration of Interests

(17) Any Member participating in a remote meeting who declares a disclosable pecuniary or other beneficial interest, under Part 15 of the Local Government Act 2001, in any item of business that would normally require them to leave the room, must also leave the remote meeting, advising the Cathaoirleach and members at the time of departure and this shall be recorded in the minutes. Their departure will be confirmed by the Meetings Administrator, who will invite the relevant Member to re-join the meeting at the appropriate time. Their time of return shall be recorded in the Minutes.

Page 3 of 4 Attendance of Public and Media at a Remote Meeting (Section 45(3) Local Government Act 2001 – 2014)

(18) Members of the public and media may be present at a remote meeting but must maintain silence and observe any directions given by the Chair or by any employee in attendance.

(19) Members of the media and public should give prior notice of joining a meeting remotely. To manage numbers and attendance, the meetings administrator will utilise electronic invitations compatible with the platform in use. Attendance numbers may be limited by the technology being utilised for the meeting.

MEETINGS IN COMMITTEE

(20) In line with the provisions of Section 45 of the Local Government Act 2001, and Standing Order 63, the Municipal District members may by resolution decide to meet in committee for the whole or part of the meeting concerned.

(21) Should the Municipal District members elect to meet in Committee for some or all of the meeting the Meetings Administrator or person designated by him will ensure that there are no members of the public or media in remote attendance or remotely accessing the meeting or are able to hear or see the proceedings once the exclusion has been agreed by the meeting.

(22) Where the Municipal District members have, by resolution decided to meet in committee for the whole or part of the meeting concerned, each member participating remotely has personal responsibility to ensure and confirm to the Meetings Administrator, that there are no other persons present who are not entitled to be either hearing or seeing consideration of such items, and/or recording the proceedings contrary to Standing Order No. 64.

(23) Remote attendance at in committee meetings will be recorded by the Meetings Administrator and confirmed by roll call with Members confirming their attendance and that there are no other persons present who are not entitled to either hear or see consideration of such items and are not recording same contrary to Standing Order No. 64.

(24) For the avoidance of doubt where a member attending a meeting remotely loses connection for any period of time, the meeting may continue and nothing done during such period will be invalidated by the absence of the member’s connection including where a vote is held during such period but this does not affect the member’s entitlement to vote provided it is done as provided for in paragraph 15 above.

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Donegal Municipal District 2021 Roadworks Programme

Status Report - 12th January 2021

Donegal Municipal District

2021 Road Maintenance (Surface Dressing) Programme

Regional & Local Road Programmes to be agreed after funding has been announced at the end January 2021.

Total Area of Road Road Road Name and/or Engineering Works Length Width work Estimated Class Number Townland Name Area Type Year (m) (m) (sq.m) Cost (EURO) Status 2021 Regional Road Surface Dressing

Total Area of Road Road Road Name and/or Engineering Works Length Width work Estimated Class Number Townland Name Area Type Year (m) (m) (sq.m) Cost (EURO) Status 2021 Local Road Surface Dressing

Donegal Municipal District 2021 Restoration Improvement Programme

Regional & Local Road Programmes to be agreed after funding has been announced at the end January 2021.

2021 Total Area of Road Road Road Name and/or Engineeri Length work Estimated No Class Number Townland Name ng Area (m) (sq.m) Cost (EURO) Status

Donegal MD footpath repair & public lighting infill works 3 Year Programme

Footpath Works RSS Area Location Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Overall Status Status Status Budget Budget Budget Total Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 2018 2019 2020 Amount 2018 2019 2020 Mountcharles €5,729.00 €16,600.00 €24,350.00 €46,679.00 Completed 34% completed Yet to commence 14 Dunkineely €23,432.00 €23,432.00 41% completed Frosses €16,600.00 €23,432.00 €40,032.00 Yet to commence Yet to commence Killybegs €15,568.00 €16,600.00 €50,000.00 €82,168.00 Completed 95% completed Yet to commence Kilcar €3,200.00 €3,200.00 Yet to commence 15 Glencolumbkille €8,300.00 €16,314.00 €24,614.00 Yet to commence Yet to commence Carrick €8,300.00 €1,700.00 €10,000.00 Yet to commence Yet to commence Ballintra €11,214.00 €11,214.00 Completed 16 Ballyshannon €95,244.00 €16,600.00 €35,000.00 €146,844.00 83% completed 54% completed Yet to commence Bundoran €16,600.00 €25,000.00 €41,600.00 Completed Completed Donegal Town €32,897.00 €16,600.00 €47,214.00 €96,711.00 84% completed Yet to commence Yet to commence Laghey €8,300.00 €8,000.00 €16,300.00 Yet to commence Yet to commence 17 Bridgetown €6,000.00 €6,000.00 Yet to commence Pettigo €8,300.00 €10,000.00 €18,300.00 Yet to commence Yet to commence Totals €149,438.00 €132,800.00 €284,856.00 €567,094.00

Public Lighting Infill Works Area Location Description Total Cost Status Drimark, Infill lighting - 7 additional Donegal Town lights at Drimark on Local €10,871.00 Completed 14 Mountcharles Lower End Mountcharles €6,750.00 Started Mill Park Hotel, Proposed lighting from Doonan Doonan Roundabout to €9,500.00 Yet to commence Kilcar Lighting improvement €10,650.00 Completed 15 Killybegs Old Fintra Rd near Glenlee €18,725.00 Yet to commence 16 Ballyshannon Rossnowlagh Link Road. €30,000.00 Completed Killymard, Extend existing public Donegal Town lighting past the school €11,600.00 Completed Tirconnaill Infill lighting needed along Street & Castle the public road at 17 Street, Donegal Tirconnaill Street on local Town Road L-1925-3 between €10,000.00 Yet to commence Killymard, Killymard Church to Donegal Town Drumrooske Housing €22,500.00 Completed Total amount €130,596.00

Donegal Municipal District

2021 Drainage Works Drainage Programme to be agreed after funding has been announced at the end January 2021.

Estimated Area Area Description of Works Road No. Cost € totals Status

2021 Donegal MD Safety improvement Works

MD Road Number Location Description LA Allocation Status Donegal L-6595 Spierstown Installation of bollards on footpath near the junction to ensure Bollards to be (Clar Chapel) vision lines are not being impeaded by parked vehicles €15,000 erected in January Total €15,000

July Stimulus 2020: List of proposed Projects for Active Travel Measures for Regional and Local Roads 2020

Donegal Municipal District

Specify if Road Decription of location of proposed Approved No Details of Active Travel Schemes Design or Length Width Cost 2020 Cost 2021 Number scheme Amount Works Status 1 R263-9 Carrick - Bogagh Road Provision of new footpaths Works 80m 2m €35,000.00 €35,000.00 Completed 2 L-2465-1 Ballyshannon - Bishop Street Stage 1 Provision of new infill section of footpath Works 60m 2m €20,000.00 €20,000.00 Yet to commence 3 R263 Glencolumbcille Footpath Improvements Works €45,000.00 €23,745.00 €21,246.00 Started Killybegs - Industrial Road Footpath - Design work associated with the provision of new 4 R263 Works 650 2.0 €200,000.00 €80,000.00 €120,000.00 Stage 1 footpath Started Extension Design work associated with the provision 5 to Bank Donegal Town - Bank Walk Design 1.8km 2.5m €20,000.00 €20,000.00 of new greenway Walk Installation of greenway, Design work associated with the provision 6 L-1875-2 cycle/walkway along the Shore Road Design 2km 2.5 €20,000.00 €20,000.00 of new greenway Mountcharles. Provision of new footpaths oand crossing 7 R-252 Donegal Town - Killybegs Road Design 110m 2m €10,000.00 €10,000.00 facilities 8 L-1915 Donegal Town - Lough Eske Road Provision of new footpaths Design 325m 2m €20,000.00 €20,000.00 9 R263 Glencolumbcille - Malin More Road Provision of new footpaths Design 275m 2.0 €20,000.00 €20,000.00 10 R232 Pettigo Provision of new footpaths Design 230m 4.5 €20,000.00 €20,000.00 11 L-2465-1 Ballyshannon - Bishop Street Stage 2 Provision of new footpaths Design 240m 2m €20,000.00 €20,000.00 Total Total €430,000.00 €138,745.00 €291,246.00 Overall total €429,991.00

2020 Job Stimulus Allocations

Donegal County Council Climate Change Measures Allocations 2020-proposed carryover MD Road Location Description of Works LA Allocation Amount of Allocation Amount of Allocation Number that will be Spent in Requested for Transfer 2020 (End November) into 2021:

Status Donegal LT-51481 Bundoran - West End Protection measures for €50,000 €50,000 roads which would be vulnerable to severe weather events such as embankment stability measures to protect the road and prevent slippage Started Donegal R263/3 Frosses - Tullycumber Preventative works (such as €100,000 €70,000 €30,000 drainage works) to prevent flooding

Started €150,000 €70,000 €80,000

Economic Development, Information Systems & Emergency Services Directorate

Report to Municipal District of Donegal

Content

1. Economic Development 1.1 Economic Development Unit 1.2 Tourism Marketing Unit 1.3 Research & Policy Unit 1.4 Strategic Funding Unit 2. Local Enterprise Office 3. Information Systems 4. Emergency Service s: Fire Service 5. For Information: North - West Enterprise Plan Newsletter

1. Division: Economic Development 1.1 Division: Economic Development – Economic Development Unit Project / Activity Report Title Economic Development Unit

Outline of Work The Economic Development Unit proactively engages in economic development opportunities, supporting job creation and strategic

investment in Donegal and is focusing on the following areas of work:

Alpha Innovation Centre: project development w ork is now ongoing on the Alpha Innovation Centre , following the return of the signed Letter of Offer from Enterprise Ireland for €3.7m. The project will support bu sinesses and early idea entrepreneurs to develop their innovation capability and business resilience post Brexit and post Covid.

Donegal Place Brand initiative: Work on the new place brand initiative is

ongoing with Phase 1 , the research process now complete , which included workshops with Elected Members across each MD during the first week of December . Branding and website design are currently under development with the project due for completion within Q1 2021.

#BuyDonega l : The #BuyDonegal campaign continue d during December with an extensive social media, web, press and radio campaign to creative awareness and entice consumers to go out and #BuyDonegal. Partnering with , , Ocean FM, Udaras Na Gaeltachta, and , interviews with businesses and groups across all 5 MDs have continued to spread the message and support the 250+ businesses involved by driving web visitors to buydonegal.com and encouraging people to #ShopSaf ely in towns across Donegal .

Economic Development Covid - 19 Recovery: The Unit is continuing to be proactive in supporting businesses during this Covid - 19 pandemic and activities include:

Communications on business supports: The EDU is proactively promoting and sharing information on the various supports available to businesses at this time including supports available through LEO, Enterprise Ireland, Failte Ireland and the Councils Business Restart Grant Plus Scheme on all o ur platform including Donegal County Council and Invest Donegal platforms.

Outdoor Space & Social Distancing: The scheme supports businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors to reopen by facilitating additional outdoor dining and seating areas, whil e also meeting statutory requirements and ensuring accessibility for all. Businesses apply for a Section 254 license and the Council is committed to a prompt assessment of applications within 10 working days of receipt of a complete application and tempora rily waiving fees from 1 June 2020 to 31 December 2020. More info at

http://www.donegalcoco.ie/med ia/donegalcountyc/planning/pdfs/ applicationforms/Scheme%20for%20Outdoor%20Spaces%20during %20a%20time%20of%20.pdf

Concierge Service : a dedicated point of contact for existing businesses, potential business start - ups or businesses looking to relocate or wishing to expand, by offering support and advice and connecting them with key personnel for a wide range of Council services and suppo rts.

Queries are directed to [email protected] .

The Concierge Service responds swiftly and proactively to the needs of businesses including businesses looking to re - open and adapting their operation to meet social distancing requirements in a post - Covid society. To date 5 7 queries have been dealt with through this service.

Property Solutions: involves identification, marketing, option appraisal of Council owned property and land for economic development opportunities including provision of soft landing and second site location opportunities for business. The Unit is dealing with several queries relating to potential property solutions across the county and is liaising with colleagues in various Council divisions .

Collaboration: Working with our colleagues in Community Development and Planning Services to progress a range of strategic projects including:

 Platforms for Growth, Stage 3 Application for large scale investment at Fort Dunre e with the submission of Part B Business Case on August 3 1 st , awaiting final decision on funding following presentation to funders .  Various Regeneration and Development Proposals under the URDF and the RRDF to ensure that an economic development focus is derived for the respective locations prioritised. These projects are in locations across the county in all Municipal Districts and were recently submitted as part of the DCCs Regeneration plans .

Donegal Tourism Strategy: This new 5 - year Strategy will guide the work of Donegal County Council by providing strategic direction for the recovery and development of the sector over the next 5 years.

A more detailed Terms of Reference is currently being finalised.

Caravan & Camping Study: The EDU is curr ently engaging a study to assess and evaluate the opportunities and challenges facing the Caravan & Camping sector in Donegal and to make recommendations on how best to support the future development of this sector with a view to ensuring a sustainable and viable sector going forward. This assignment will include extensive consultations with key stakeholders and the recommendations will inform a range of interventions that will assist in addressing the challenges currently being experienced.

A company has been appointed to complete the evaluation and will now work with the EDU to progress this study .

Global engagement: work is continuing to proactively target potential FDI opportunities in the US market in collaboration with City & Strabane District Council and working to create a Donegal/North West bias for businesses interested in exploring investment opportunities in the EU and UK. This includes the provision of essential baseline data and information for location decision makers.

InvestDonegal Communications Update: Latest key stats for the InvestDonegal LinkedIn and Twitter (@DonegalInvest) accounts are as follows;

Impressions (last 28 days) Total Followers

Linked In 36,500 1,253

Twitter 114 ,000 969

The EDU continue to inform businesses of the range of government supports alongside insightful business and original content features.

In addition to the above accounts, the EDU works closely with the Council’s Communications Office to share information on the Councils corporate social media channels.

The EDU asks elected members to follow InvestDonegal on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Remote Wo rking: T h e EDU is near completion on a new Remote Working Strategy for Donegal to maximise the opportunities arising for the county as a destination of choice for remote working which will form a key part of the COVID - 19 recovery plan.

The EDU is also working with various Innovation and Digital Hubs in Donegal . A Grow Remote Donegal Chapter has been initiated to promote remote working opportunities to the unemployed and underemployed across the county and to market Donegal as a great place to live and work.

Atlantic Economic Corridor : working with Local Authority partners along the western coast to progress mutually beneficial projects and initiatives. The EDU are currently managing €34,549.99 of funding support (Hub Opening Scheme) from the Department of Rural and Community Development/Western Development Commission to digital hubs in the county to enable them to open safely over the coming months.

The EDU and Western Development Commission are also developing a photobank to be used for promotion of th e region; showcasing Donegal based companies, the quality of life and co - working spaces. This work is currently ongoing with the successful photographer but has been restricted recently owing to limit ed access to local business locations and will complete when circumstances allow .

Contact Person Ciaran Martin [email protected] (086) 8261760

Rosita Mahony – [email protected] (087) 2510128

1.2 Division: Economic Development – Tourism Marketing Unit Activity / Project TIDE – Atlantic Network for Developing Historical Maritime Tourism Title Activity / Project The Project Partners are led by ERNACT EEIG (Lead Partner) along with Description 7 Partners (Donegal Co Council) representing 5 countries (Ireland, United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal & France) & 10 Associated Partners.

The objective is to develop a niche historical maritime tourism package for At lantic based on connecting & marketing assets from historical period across different regions ie World Wars, Atlantic Migrations, Napoleonic Era & Spanish Armada.

The experience will use digital technology to enrich the visitor experience such as Virtua l Reality & Archaeology Techniques that will be used in the visitor attractions .

Website: www.tide - atlantic.eu Budget Total: €2,462,267 – Donegal €383,494 (3 years) €120,821 (2020) Progress to date Donegal Stakeholder Group : The group met in December - agreed a within the last story for each of the 5 themes for Donegal after reviewing the Toolkit month - inclusive of exercises. Themes were then linked to Stakeholders. Group discussed ‘plan B’ post - Covid in relation to VR/AR units. Group discussed how all current status the c ontent being collated could be used – options are Pilot project & Platform/Terminals. Option for Stakeholders to also consider other funds to extend the project. Group also reviewed plans/schedules for 2021.

Partner Meeting : Partner meeting & Disseminati on Seminar were held. Presentations & discussions took place on Workplans, Budget/Claims, Communication, Capitalisation & Sustainability Plans/ templates, Progress on Pilot Summaries & schedules for January’s meetings.

Links/Networking/Research : Attended webinar on SMART tourism and ongoing research & networking with other projects i.e. CINE & CHERISH. Project Targets for  Stakeholders – work on Capitisation and Sustainability the next bi - templates for submitting to Partner mid - January . monthly reporting  Partners – two e - meetings scheduled - Capitisation & period Sustainability & Pilot Summaries.  WP 2 Communication – continue promotion of project on

websites & Social Media.  WP 4 Toolkit – digital copies & hard copies to be circulated by all Partners .  W P 5 Platform - Lead Partner - to e - meet with DCC in January.  WP 6 Pilot - Work on Storyboards for each theme. Meeting to discuss & continue to develop Pilot Summaries. DCC to commence making contacts with fut ure Partners for extending the project post TIDE.

Activity / Project Gaeltacht Tourism Description

Budget (if applicable) Progress to date Donegal – Discover What’s on Your Doorstep Photography within the last two Competition months/quarter* - As part of a recent local marketing campaign, Donegal Tourism ran a inclusive of current photography competition asked the public to submit photos of their status favourite places in Donegal. There was great interest in the competition with almost 1, 200 entries. All the photos received were evaluated by the Municipal District that were taken in.

The winners were:  Overall Winner: Kayaking at Owey Island by Sinead McCahey

 Best photo taken in the Donegal Municipal District: Tullan Strand, Bundoran by John Carver  Best photo taken in the Glenties Municipal District: Gaoth Dobhair Harbour by Naoise O’Baoill  Best photo taken in the Inishowen Municipal District: Grianan Aileach by Lee Morrow  Best photo taken in the Letterkenny and Milford Municipal District: Lough Salt by Treasa G Frazer  Best photo taken in the Stranorlar Municipal District: Trusk Lough by Bronagh Marnie

Owey Island by Sinead McCahey

Tullan Strand by John Carver

Activity / Project Bundoran Marketing Title Progress  Department of Rural & Community Development marketing grant planning for early 2021.  Promotion of food businesses that are open for takeaway in Bundoran during Level 5 via www.discoverbundoran.com  Draft basic planning for 2021 activities and initiatives should they go ahead, continues.

Bundoran Tourist Office  Remains closed until at least new year. Phone and emails monitored.  Currently one TÚS employee working.  EU Wifi installed and operational.

Website and Social Media Maintaining a social media presence for the town on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Generating content and repurposing other content, particularly of historical interest.

 Sourcing images for promotion of Bundoran on our Insta gram account and scheduling daily.  “Bundoran Weekly” Podcast continues to be produced and released each Friday across our social media channels  End of year blogs for publication over the Christmas/New Year period.

Waterworld  Continuing with plans for th e marketing of the 2021 season of Waterworld.

Other  Working with #BuyDonegal on December promotion – radio promotions and social media content.  EU Wifi installation at second Bundoran location.  Worked with Christmas Lights committee on installations  Sour ced footage for American TV crew filming.  Working with DCC on Failte Ireland Platforms for Growth scheme at Tullan Strand.  Assisting consultants on Ballyshannon Regeneration Project.

Contact Person Barney Mc Laughlin 074 9724465

1.3. Division: Economic Development Unit – Research and Policy

Activity / Project Title Trail Gazers Bid Project Activity / Project ‘To quantify the return to the local economy for every euro Description invested in walks and recreational trail infrastructure ‘

Budget (if applicable) €2.6 M Progress to date within In 2018, Donegal County Councils Research & Policy Unit quarter* - inclusive of successfully led an application to the Atlantic Area Programme current status under objective 4.2 ‘ Enhancing natural and cultural assets to stimulate economic development’. This transnational project is

managed by the Research & Policy Unit (Lead Partner), working with 9 different partners located acro ss Ireland, UK, France, Spain and Portugal. The project sets out to:  Quantify the impact of key strategic investments in walks and recreational trail infrastructure can have on stimulating rural communities, using sensors data, counters, surveys of users, businesses, communities etc  Develop and trial a range of practical initiatives and interventions such as business to consumer initiatives, digital marketing tools etc to enhance the return  Work with communities, businesses and other key stakeholders in the area to develop community plans and initiatives around the site  Develop a range of community trail ambassadors to champion the sites as catalysts for the development of rural economies  Our site for research purposes is Inch Levels and post project completion it is likely that key learning and methodology can be applied to other sites in the county and region through an extensive capitalisation programme.

PROGRESS

 Coordinated and compiled the second project claim and third technical report to the value of € 350,000.57 to the Atlantic Area Programme on behalf of 10 partners . Provided advice and guidance to each partner to ensure receipt of verified expenditure from each region respective First Level Controller and National Authority. Liaised wit h Joint Secretariat and Submission date 22 nd Dec 2020.

 Completed follow - ups and minutes from the monthly Trail Gazers Communication & Coordination Meeting on the 6 th November, 2020. This covered the progress on a wide variety of tasks including the devel opment of ‘community trail plans’, ‘trail care packs’ and new and innovative ways to engage with communities through the community trail ambassador programme.

 Site survey completed on Inch Levels Wildfowl Reserve by successful technology supplier and Nati onal Parks and Wildlife Service to identify optimal location for sensor installation in Jan/Feb 2020. 2 virtual meeting held.

 Meeting with North West Greenway Communication Officer and Trail Gazers Team on the 16 th December, 2020. The purpose of this is to ensure that learning and tools from Trail Gazers in terms of: o Monitoring footfall o Determining & minimising impacts of footfall on environmental sensitive areas o Developing trail visitors’ surveys & bespoke Business to Consumer Initiatives o Developing tailored Community Trail Plans that connect towns and villages to strategic investments o Developing digital trail marketing materials o Identifying new trail visitors (walkers , cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts etc ) in the 10 participating regions and developin g targeting these visitors with appropriate digital material o Animating citizens and organisations that have a role in the development of Inch Levels Wildfowl Reserve.

 Completed follow ups from transnational workshop on the 25 th November 2020 to share knowledge learning and expertise on developing a bespoke trail dashboard. This development will provide trail managers, policy and decision makers with accurate footfall data on trail usage that the impact that could have on enviro nmentally sensitive areas.

 Completed follow - ups from transnational workshop on the 17th November, 2020 to share best practise on capturing virtual imagery that will portray the unique outdoor experience of a walking or cycling holiday in Donegal or other Atlantic Area s to new audiences around the world.

 Following on from the transnational workshops held with partners in August and September the team has continued to work with partners on the emerging options for the development along each of these trail s ites that will capitalise on assets and minimise the constraints. This work will feed into the development of bespoke Community Trail Plans that will focus on innovative and practical way to harness footfall from walks and trails and divert visitors into surrounding towns and villages to explore, experience and spend.

 Development of a promotional video, vodcasts and 3D Character that will showcase Inch Levels and surrounding catchment area to new niche audiences around the world and also provide content for the ’ Lost Stories & Folklore of the Trail App’ . This app will allow visitors to explore Inch Levels trail site virtually and listen to local stories and folklore associated with key points of interest along the trail site. It will help to build up an affinity with the site that will last long after the visit has ended.

 Ongoing awareness raising of the work that is been led out by the Trail Gazers Team in utilising walks and trail infrastructure to stimulate economic development in the Atlantic Area. Most recently the project featured on Nationwide on the 16th November at 7pm on RTE. Please see https://www.rte.ie/player/series/nationwide/SI0000001172?e pguid=IH000382904 Project Targets for the next quarterly* reporting  Identification of other trails sites and catchment area in period Donegal that can benefit from the learning and outputs from Trail Gazers

 Deployment of sensors on Inch Levels Wildfowl Reserve to monitor footfall patterns around the trail site. Ongoing work with suppliers on connecting to a digital trail dashboard.  Po pulation of Trail Care Template on Flora & Fauna surrounding Inch Levels. Contact Person Loretta Mc Nicholas (to include telephone Tel | 087 9029307 nu mber & e - mail address) E | [email protected]

1.4. Division: Economic Development Unit - Strategic Funding Unit Report

Title Strategic Funding Unit – exploring EU and National Funding Opportunities that support the objectives set out in the Donegal County Council Corporate Plan 2020 – 2024 Outline of Work COSME Tourism Funding Call A funding opportunity under the EU COSME programme has been circulated to the relevant Council teams by the Strategic Funding Unit. This funding call aims to boost the uptake of digitalisation , innovation and new technologies in tourism through transnational cooperation and capacity building among tourism SME’s. A workshop is being facilitated by the SFU on 17th December 2020 to discuss applying for funding, project ideas and potential consorti ums. The IS

team and Ernact are working jointly with the Tourism Unit and Economic Development to explore this opportunity. The SFU is also engaging with the EU NECSTouR tourism network and a meeting with them is planned for 15 th December to explore other consortiums and project ideas.

AER (Assembly of European Regions) Taskforces Donegal County Council has been invited to join the AER Bureau Taskforces that will start their work in 2021. The Taskforces are on Climate, Sustainable Mobility & Connectivity and Democracy. The Strategic Funding Unit will represent Donegal County Council on these Taskforces.

IREO and NWRA Survey The Strategic Funding Unit is working closely with the Irish Regions European Office and the North West Regional Assem bly in relation to EU funding opportunities that will be opening up in 2021. The SFU has completed an IREO survey detailing Donegal County Council’s activity in EU policy and funding to allow IREO and NWRA to better target their support to Donegal County C ouncil.

Donegal Town Pier Work is ongoing to develop Terms of Reference for a Masterplan for Donegal Town Pier and the wider area and that this would be funded from funds generated from parking in Donegal Town. It is expected that procurement will be undertaken in the coming weeks and it is anticipated that Consultants will be appointed in the New Year with a view to completing the Masterplan by Q2 of 2021. Following agreement at the MD meeting on 8 th December to pr ogress in this manner, local stakeholders have also been informed of this plan.

Strategic Funding Webinar s 2020 Three Strategic Funding Unit webinars took place in Q4 of 2020 on a variety of themes including EU and National funding, innovation and cross - border opportunities. The third Strategic Funding Unit webinar took place on 1 st December and the theme was ‘cross - border funding opportunities . Declan McGarrigle from SEUPB delivered a presentation on the new Peace Plus programme. Teresa Lennon from the Irish Regi ons European Office (IREO) presented details of the latest news on EU funding and the Brexit Adjustmen t Reserve Fund. Joy Harron provide d a presentation on developing a project idea into a pro posal. All of the webinars are now available on the Donegal County Council YouTube channel. They are unlisted and links to the webinars can be provided on request or are available on the Intranet. More webinars are planned for 2021 once the Funding Needs A nalysis process has been finalised in January.

Divisional Funding Needs Analysis The Funding Needs Analysis process is well underway. The Strategic Funding Unit has circulated the Funding Needs Analysis survey to all Directorates. A number of Funding Nee ds Analysis meetings have taken place with Divisional Teams. Further meetings are scheduled for January 2021. Reports are being produced based on the outcomes of these meetings with a view to informing future plans in relation to funding applications.

S t rategic Funding Unit Newsletters Donegal County Council Strategic Funding Unit continues its targeted e - mail campaign. E - mail newsletters are being sent weekly to the team members in the various Divisions regarding funding opportunities, project developmen t and events that are relevant to the work they are doing in line with the strategic objectives set out in the corporate plan. To date 10 targeted e - mail newsletters have been sent since the campaign commenced mid - September .

CPMR (Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions) Donegal County Council has been confirmed as pillar co - ordinator for the Atlantic Strategy and Atlantic Action Plan pillar 1: ports as gateways and hubs for the Blue Economy and this will allow the Council to have a much greate r influence on policy and funding related to this sector. The SFU has also provided input on the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund Declaration that was submitted to the EU Commission in relation to the future distribution of the BAR fund to ensure that the in terests of are put forward at EU level.

Funding Call Alerts & Reviews In addition to the e - mail newsletters, direct e - mails are sent to staff when a relevant funding opportunity arises that suits their work plan. Also, the Strategic Fundin g Unit prepares funding call reviews for circulation to the SMT e.g. the EU Innovation Fund review.

Networking & Partnerships The Strategic Funding Unit are working with a variety of networks such as CPMR and AER to explore project development and funding opportunities.

Public Service Innovation Fund 2021 The Strategic Funding Unit is working with IS and Finance team s to explore project ideas with a view to develop a project related to digital technology and apply for funding under the Public Service Innovation Fund 2021.

EURural Project The Strategic Funding Unit is working with the Municipality of Aras de los Olmos (Spain) on the development of a project under the EU funding call Europe for Citizens. If successful, the project aims to foster democr atic engagement and civic participation in rural areas and encouraging democratic participation of citizens at EU level and participation in the EU policy - making process. A decision is expected in January 2021 by the EU Commission in relation to this proje ct.

AER Summer Academy Event 2022 The SFU is in talks with AER (Assembly of European Regions) in regard to hosting their Summer Academy here in Donegal in 2022 depending on the pandemic situation. This would provide a positive economic boost to the county and international exposure. Fáilte Ireland are also working with the SFU to support this initiative.

Othe r Funding Investigations The Strategic Funding Unit is investigating a number of funding opportunities in relation to themes around digital transformation including digital hubs, IoT, infrastructure, tourism innovation, sustainability, climate change and s pecific funding calls such as the Innovation Fund, NPA, Peace Plus, Atlantic Area Programme and Horizon 2020. Contact Person Joy Harron (to include Acting Staff Officer telephone Mobile: +353 (87) 0619360 number & e - mail E - mail: [email protected] address)

2. Division: Local Enterprise Office

Project / Activity Report

Activity / Project The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Title The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) as part of the Economic Development, IS & Emergency Services Directorate, is the “first stop shop” for anyone planning, starting or growing a small business in Donegal. The LEO plays a major role in offering expertise, kn ow - how and financial support to local small businesses, enabling them to grow and thrive. Supports available can be categorised under 4 core pillars, notably Financial, Capability Development, Enterprise Promotion and Economic & Other initiatives. Outl ine of Work A range of COVID 19 supports in addition to the regular LEO supports are on offer and a summary of the supports and the uptake is detailed below.

Business Continuity Voucher

The Business Continuity Voucher was designed for businesses across every sector that employ up to 50 people. The voucher worth up to €2,500 in third party consultancy costs could be used by companies and sole traders to develop short - term and long - term strategies to respond to the Covid - 19 pandemic.

Progress: 678 applications were received by Donegal LEO in the 8 week period to May 2020 with 574 applications approved to the value of €917,560. €831,373 has been paid out to date to 543 businesses across the County. This scheme is now closed to new applications.

Expert Mentoring Up to 12 hours of free online/telephone mentoring is available to any business seeking assistance in addressing COVID - 19 issues including developing their cash flow projections, managing cashflow, drafting loan applications, HR adv ice, Risk Assessment, etc and developing short action plans to address the identified actions. Mentoring application forms are available to download here .

Progress: To date, 136 COVID - 19 Mentoring applications have been received.

Trading Online Voucher Scheme

The Trading Online Voucher (TOV) Scheme which has been updated from 8th April to offer more assistance for businesses looking to build an online presence has recorded significant demand. 90% Financial assistance up to €2500 is available to small businesse s that have been trading for more than 6 months with less than 10 employees. Participation in the Trading Online Workshop is compulsory for approval for this scheme. The scheme will continue in 2021 but with a reduced financial assistance rate of 50%. C ompleted applications submitted in advance of 31 December 2020 deadline will be considered for the 90% support rate.

Progress: 517 TOV applications have been received by the Local Enterprise Office in 2020 with 459 applications awarded €1,109,292 funding in line with the approved budget.

Micro - Enterprise Assistance Scheme

This is a NEW Scheme launched in September 2020. The ob jective COVID - 19 Micro - Enterprise Assistance Scheme is to provide a grant of a minimum of €500 to a maximum €1,000 in respect of vouched expenditure contribution towards the cost of reopening or keeping a business operational and re - connecting with employe es and customers. The scheme closed on November 13 th . 12 applications have been received of which 7 were approved for funding.

Microfinance Ireland Supports for COVID - 19

The COVID 19 Business Loan from Microfinance Ireland (MFI) in association with the Local Enterprise Office is a government funded initiative to support small businesses through the current period of uncertainty and protect job creation/sustainment in Ireland. If any micro - enterprise is impacted or may be impacted negatively by COVID - 19 resulting in a reduction of 15% or more in turnover or profit, AND they are having difficulty in accessing Bank finance, the MFI COVID - 19 Business Loan may be an alternative funding solution for them. Loans up to €25,000 are available with a reduced i nterest fee of 4.5% as opposed to 5.5% available, if the application is submitted via the Local Enterprise Office. Interest Free and Repayment Fee for 6 months is available. For more information, click here .

Progress: 23 applications have been received by the Local Enterprise Office of which 16 have been approved to date. The scheme has reopened for applications.

In addition, t here is a COVID – 19 Working Capital Lo an available from SBCI . This is for eligible businesses impacted by COVID - 19. Loans from €25,000 up to €1.5m will be available at reduced rates (max 4%), with up to the first €500,000 unsecured. Applications can be made through the SBCI website https://sbci.gov.ie/ .

Other Supports

New Stimulus Package

A new stimulus package valued at €8 - 10m has been announced in the for LEO M1 clients who are engaged in manufacturing and internationally traded services. A suite of new programmes will be delivered notably;  Green for Micro,  Retail,  Financial Management,  Innovation,  Exporting. Measure 1: Financial Supports

 Start Up/Business Expansion

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

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

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

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

Progress: In 2020, 32 Feasibility, Business Start Up and Expansion grants have been approved €769,630 funding creating a projected 81 jobs over the 3 - year period.

BREXIT With the UK exiting the EU on 1 January 2021, the Local Enterprise Office has expert advice, information and practical supports available to help local businesses manage their Brexit response through the following supports ;

Scorecards and Checklists Scorecards and checklists are available to assess how a business may be impacted by Brexit.

Mentoring One - to - one advice and guidance from an experienced mentor to deal with Brexit Related issues. . Ready for Customs Grant Ready for Customs grant will assist businesses increase its c apacity to manage the customs process after 1st January 2021. Up to €9,000 is available for each new Full - Time employee engaged in Customs work.

Brexit Readiness Checker

The Brexit Readiness Checker develops a personalised report to help businesses pre pare for Brexit.

Customs Training Customs change is coming, and the workshops help businesses prepare for this change. Hundreds of local businesses have participated in the workshops in 2020 with further monthly Workshops commencing on January 13 th .

BREXIT HELPLINE The Local Enterprise Office BREXIT support line will be in place from 9am to 5.30pm from December 29th 2020 to January 3rd 2021 for direct clients on 1800 839 966

Brexit Stimulus Package Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation has announced an additional budget allocation of €8 - 10m to the border LEOs in 2020 as a stimulus measure to mitigate any Brexit related slowdown. Six programmes supporting local businesses are at advanced planning with tendering completed or underway. The programmes of support will include a Scaling Programme, a Green Energy Programme, a Retail Programme, an Export Programme, an Innovation Programme and a Scaling Programme.

Measure 2: Capability Develo pment The Local Enterprise Office provides a broad suite of training, management development, mentoring and peer - learning programmes all aimed at increasing the capability of owner managers and their key internal staff. During COVID 19 many of these Progra mmes have moved online and are in huge demand.

These include: Profitnet Profitnet is a highly successful business development and support programme which has benefited 180 Donegal businesses to date. The programme runs for a period of up to 18 months a nd involves monthly group meetings with peer business owners, which are facilitated to ensure there is an exchange of innovative and creative business solutions. The Engineering Profitnet meeting has hosted 8 online meetings since the COVID - 19 restriction s have been put in place.

Training Over 2800 people have attended a range of tailored training programmes in 2020 to date including online courses on Preparing for the Return to Work Post COVID 19 - Key Considerations for Business, S tart your Own Business, Preparing for Brexit, Getting your Business Online.

Gateway to Growth International Export Programme – Led by Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council, the programme comprises of export workshops, one to one reviews and a North West Trade Mission financed by The Executive Office and the Irish Government. Two programmes were delivered in 2020.

Technical Study for Marine Development Works at Killybegs Harbour - The Study commenced in July with the contr act awarded to ByrneLooby Ltd. The draft report was received in December 2020.

AMBITION - Pre - Accelerator for Women

An exciting new programme to develop female entrepreneurship in Donegal – has commenced. AMBITION is a pre - accelerator programme run by Local Enterprise Office Donegal, in partnership with NDRC, which sources and builds digital startups to invest in and wo rk with. The AMBITION programme was open to female founders, entrepreneurs, or those with a strong start - up idea, who have links to Donegal. The business idea with the most potential will be awarded €10,000. 41 applications were received by the closing da te and 11 Female led teams, 3 of which are Donegal Diaspora participated on the 6 week pilot programme. The Final Showcase and announcement of the €10,000 award winner was held online on 10 December 2020. Rachel Craig, EU Remote Jobs, a member of the Don egal Diaspora living in Barcelona was announced as the overall winner.

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

4.0 Economic & Other Initiatives

The LEO is engaged in a wide range of other initiatives, including;  The Food Coast – Donegal’s Good Food Initiative,  The Food Coast – Mark of Origin  The Creative Coast  Enterprise Europe Network  Donegal Diaspora  EU Programmes Contact Person Brenda Hegarty, Assistant Head of Enterprise Local Enterprise Office •: 074 9160895/9160735 |Mobile: 0873404510 • [email protected]

3. Information Systems

Activity/Project Update

Activity / Project Title Information Systems COVID - 19 Response Activity / Project The Info rmation Systems Department has implemented a range of Description services and solutions to deal with internal staffing and work rearrangements, and solutions for public information and communications . A range of planned key information systems have been implemented in parallel.

Budget (if applicable)

Progress to date within the 1. Continued increase in the volume of structured and un - last month - inclusive of structured IS support tasks in the period January – current status September 2020 over same period in 2019 due to Covid

19.

2. PSC connected to 1GB Government Networks Infrastructure. 3. Setup of County Council WiFi networks offsite at John Bosco Centre & Aura Leisure Centre to facilitate Council & MD meetings. Introduction of extra screens at AURA Leisure centre. 4. Strategic deployment of IS Staff at PSC’s & HQ to manage network infrastructure, systems and data for cr itical services. 5. Secure ongoing remote working solutions for key staff in a range of departments to ensure that critical work can be processed in all COVID - 19 eventualities. 6. Facilitating ongoing widespread segregation of staff members in buildings under so cial distancing guidelines. 7. Facilitating ongoing home working arrangements across a number of Departments. 8. Continual adaption of DCC website for public COVID - 19 information , including detailed covid19 mapping dashboards and show my 5km map. 9. 437 online meetings on GoToMeeting in October, with roll out of GoToMeeting functionality to 9 4 admin users. 10. Ongoing deployment of electronic return to Work COVID - 19 forms & notices for Council staff in conjunction with HR as staff return to offices. 11. Implemen ting return to work protocols for staff returning “on to Network” from Working from Home, to ensure data and systems integrity. 12. Former Army Barracks campus in Lifford added to the Wide Area Network and setup up transferred hardware completed. 13. eTenders proc urement process completed for the Supply and Installation of a SD - WAN Solution for Donegal County Council HQ and 25 x county Wide Remote Sites. 14. 1 st Draft of Donegal County Council – Migration to O365 Project Statement of Work received and currently being r eviewed 15. Implementation of remote Interviewing platform, testing and training for HR upcoming interview competitions.

Systems Programme

16. Support of COVID19 Restart Grant online system and backend electronic support system. 2,589 applications via website to date. 17. Ongoing development and support of major online and backend support systems to facilitate management of the Defective Block Scheme which opened on 29 th June. 18. Ongoing upgrade of Dynmaics CRM for a number of solutions to fa cilitate in house development of mobile applications. 19. New car parking management system installed for management of parking function. E - Parking system app launched on 22 nd June for on - street payment of parking charges. 7,327 registered users since June on eParking App . 19,999 parking requests made.

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

Activity/Project Update

Activity / Project Title WiFi4EU Activity / Project WiFi4EU is an EU sponsored initiative to create free public WiFi spaces Description within the Digital Single Market. Municipalities across Europe had the opportunity to apply for a max of 4 Vouchers. DCC were successful in winning 4 vouchers to the value of €60,000. The Department of Rural & Community D evelopment will match fund each voucher + €60,000. DCC to invest additional €30,000 to create budget total of €150,000 or €30,000 per Municipal District.

Propose to install 75 outdoor public WiFI access points throughout County Donegal to create centres of public connectivity. Budget (if applicable) €150,000

Progress to date within the Broadband lines have been ordered and checked for minimum 30mbs last month - inclusive of threshold. Where fibre connections are available, they are being current status ordered. KN have started installations.

Routers have been posted to locations.

Project Targets for the next monthly reporting period Installation of WiFi devices in Donegal MD planned to commence December with other ready locations in other MDs to follow.

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

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

During 2020 NBI will be carrying out route proofing and surveying in preparation for the main fibre rollouts commencing in 2021. Budget (if applicable)

Progress to date within the WiFi hardware installations have taken place at Leghowney last month - inclusive of Community Hall, Meenreagh hostel & Cranford Community Centre. current status NBI Surveying of Network continuing

Pole installation at Malin Head and Sliabh Liag with Wireless backhaul connections installed on 27 th /29 th November.

Contractor appointed to install cabinets at Malinbeg Old School and Malin Head public convenience building

Meeting with NBI and Elected Members Project Targets for the next Wifi services to be installed at Sliabh Liag and Malin Head monthly reporting period Backhaul connectivity at MalinBeg to be secured.

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

4. Division: Emergency Services - Fire Service

Number of: Activity Total for year (November)*

Fire Brigade incidents within County Donegal**: 50 722

Mobilisations (by Donegal Fire Service Brigades) * *: 50 802

Mobilisations into Donegal (by NI Fire & Rescue Service 8 84 (NIFRS))**:

Fire Safety Certificate applications received: 20 159

Fire Safety Certificates waiting to be assessed: 11 N/A

Fire Safety Certificate applications assessed by Fire Officer and 38 N/A waiting for Further Information from Applicant / Agent:

Fire Safety Certificate decisions made: 9 132

Applications for Dangerous Substance Licences received: 2 11

Dangerous Substance Licences issued: 0 2

Form of notice received under the Explosives Act, 1875: 0 14

Inspections and Auditing carried out (Fire Services Act 1981 & 2003, Annual Licensing, DSA 1972, Explosive Stores, 9 133 Pyrotechnics, BCA 1992 & 2007):

Fire Safety Complaints received: 0 16 Fire Safety Complaints dealt with: 0 16

During Performance Inspections carried out: 0 0

Fire Safety awareness presentations delivered: 0 0

* Current data only available up to end of November 2020. ** Provisional Figures. 5. For Information: North - West Enterprise Plan Newsletter

ENVIRONMENT REPORT – January 2021

WASTE AND LITTER MANAGEMENT

Activity / The Rosses Men’s Shed Winners in the National Upcycling Competition Project Title Project Description/ Activity

County Donegal Men’s Shed wins at this year’s National Upcycle Challenge with “Thomas the Tank Engine”

 The Upcycle Challenge was set by mywaste.ie and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  There wer e Nine Winners in total across n ine different categories.

Rosses Men’s Shed from Donegal, who bought the railway back to Donegal in the form of “ Thomas the Tank Engine” and an old oil tank were among the nine worthy winners of this year’s national Upcycle Challenge 2020. The Upcycle Challenge was set by mywaste.ie and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

It invited partic ipants to use their imagination to create something new and useful out of old unwanted and discarded items or material.

As many as 259 entries were received from individuals, commu nity organisations, Men’s Sheds and schools across the country. A total of eight category winners were decided by a judging panel, who also chose three finalists for a People’s Choice Award.

During November, the public voted for the three finalists on mywaste.ie social media platforms. The Irish public decided the winner to be Ann Mc Kenna from County Monagh an who upcycles the clothes of people who died to make memorial bears for their loved ones.

Men’s Shed Category Rosses Men’s Shed, Co. Donegal - Brought the railway back to Donegal in the form of “Thomas the Tank Engine” made from an old oil tank and so me pallets. The result is the ideal playhouse/train for children and the young at heart. Pat Bonner, Rosses Men’s Shed, Co. Donegal: “Railways unfortunately disappeared from Donegal in the 1960's, so we decided to try and recreate and build our own 'Thomas The Tank Engine' as a reminder of those days. It may sound like a childish proposition but as they say, 'Adults are just children at heart.....but with a few more wrinkles’. “The inspiration for the project came from a Shed members better half. Sh e decided to brighten up their back garden by painting a Thomas the Tank Engine face on their oil tank.”

Congratulating the winners Sinead Ni Mhainnin Waste Prevention Officer with the Connacht Waste Management Planning Office said this year’s app lications were of a very high standard making the judging process very difficult.

“The Upcycle Challenge is a collaboration between the EPA and the regional waste management offices under the umbrella of mywaste.ie . This year, as in other years, we challenged ourselves to get the nation thinking about reuse. The challenge helped create awareness of how we can reuse everyday objects by upcycling and rep urposing them, as well as allowing people and groups to share their creativity with a wider audience. This year we also became acutely aware how important these projects were to a lot of people during the weeks and months of the pandemic.

“Many entrants shared with us how working on these projects helped to sustain them during the lockdown and proved to be a useful exercise in managing mental health. We are therefore delighted with the positive impact these projects have on our environment and the well - b eing of the community at large.”

Due to public health restrictions, this year’s Upcycle Challenge Award ceremony will take the form of a video shared on mywaste.ie social media channels showing the skills, creativity and ingenuity of all nine winners and their projects. Each winner will also receive an equal share of the €6,750 prize fund.

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

Activity / Christmas Recycling advertising Project Title Project My waste .ie : Description/ Activity

The team at ‘My waste ’ produced a number of assets for use on social media, they also had local and national radio and television advertisements in the lead up to Christmas.

The Council has promoted the ‘ M ywaste ’ campaign, WEEE Ireland campaigns regarding bat tery and electric al recycling, ‘ Stop Food W aste ’ campaigns, promoted the use of the hous ehold recycling bin, the Bring B anks and the Recycling Centres using social media, online media, radio and print advertising.

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

Activity / Christmas Tree Recycling 2 nd – 23 rd January 2021 Project Title Project Description/ Activity

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

COASTAL MANAGEMENT

Activity / Open Water Swimming Project Title Project Open water swimming has become increasingly popular in Donegal since the Covid - 19 pandemic Description/ closed swimming pools/gyms and travel restrictions for normal recreation was restricted. Many Activity discovered the physical and mental health benefits from open water swim ming, on their doorsteps.

Many people describe the feeling of intense satisfaction after plunging into cold water. It leaves the body tingling all over and helps clear the mind of worries and anxieties. Year - round swimmers are adamant that the sea has the potential to alleviate the effects of a number of physical ailments including arthritis, chronic pain and lots more.

When to Swim in Open Water It is important to start in the summer when the water temperature in Ireland is somewhere between 14° and 18° degrees Celsius. The sens ible way to acclimatise to cold water is to swim in it regularly. You can gradually extend the time of your stay in the water with practice. Get out if you are not feeling comfortable, and never set time goals for staying in the water. When entering the wa ter, throw some water down the back of your neck to help prepare your body for the cold water immersion; this helps reduce the risk of cold shock or in extreme cases heart attacks.

Water Temperatures Sea water Temperatures can vary from approximately 5° in the Winter to 25° Celsius in a heat wave. Freshwater temperatures can vary approximately 1° in the Winter to 27° Celsius in a heat wave.

Check the weather forecast and tides You should always look at the wind and weather forecasts, then check the ti me and type of tides. Spring tides are more hazardous as they cause stronger rip currents on beaches and increase the risk of stranding. Use local knowledge to identify the location of the rip currents on your beach, or bathing area. It is much safer to sw im on a rising tide than on a falling tide. Use an App on your phone, websites online or newspapers for further real time information about tides, e.g. tides near me.

At low water you are more likely to slip or fall on surfaces with algae on them both in fresh and salt water.

At High Water you may not be aware of hidden rocks or obstacles underwater. Seek local knowledge before entering the water.

Never swim alone Due to the unpredictable nature of our temperate climate, the sea can change very quic kly, so never swim alone. If you swim alone and you get into difficulties, you are more than likely going to drown. Heed the advice given by regular swimmers. If they are not getting into the water as they feel conditions are too dangerous, then you should not enter the water. If you do get in to difficulty then remain calm, try and float or tread water, until you can either continue swimming or you are rescued by a passer - by.

Make sure you can be seen It is essential that you wear bright yellow/pink swi mming caps which are conspicuous to other water users in your vicinity. It is recommended you also use a bright tow float for visibility so that other Aquatic users can see them. Some swimmers can be naïve when it comes to their vulnerability in the water – be aware of other water users in the area nearby, particularly boats and jet skis. Depending on their speed, they can pose a real threat to you in the same way any vehicle would on the open road.

Alcohol and water never mix Do not consume alcohol befo re you enter open water, 3 in 10 people who drown have consumed it. Alcohol severely reduces your ability to swim and respond to risks as it impairs your judgement. Similarly, while it might be appealing, do not attempt to swim in open water the day after drinking alcohol.

Warm up fast Listen to your body and do not let yourself get too cold in the water. It is also important to understand that your body will react differently to the cold on different days. If you are tired, developing a cold or flu or have had a few drinks the night bef ore you might start to feel colder, faster than usual when you are in the water. Tailor the length of your swim to how you are feeling on a given day.

Post - swim it is important to warm up as quickly as possible. Once you get out of the water you can cont inue to cool for approximately 20 - 30 minutes. This means that your deep body or core temperature will be cooler 20 - 30 minutes after your swim than when you got out of the water. Get dry and dressed in warm layers of clothing as quickly as possible. Warm dr inks are also a great way to bring your body temperature back to normal. Bring a flask of your favourite hot drink with you.

Contact Person David Friel 087 7801596

Activity / Quad Bikes and Scramblers Project Title Project Description/ Donegal County Council would like to reinforce An Garda Síochána’s safety message to any Activity children and young teenagers who were lucky enough to receive a quad bike or a scrambler this Christmas. Many people enjoy off - road biking as a fun activity, on designated tracks and trails, ensuring they are riding in a safe and appropriate environment. An Garda Síochána wish to highlight the fact that some youths on scramblers have been linked to anti - social behaviour on our beaches and coastal dune systems. This illegal and anti - social use of scramblers and quads poses a serious safety hazard, and a potential to cause fear and intimidation in our communities. Our fragile dune systems, on private property, are badly affected by such activity and can increase erosion of our beautiful beaches. When used on a public road they are subject to the same rules as other mechanically propelled vehicles. They are required to be registered, taxed and in good road - worthy condition. The driver of the vehicle must hold the a ppropriate driving licence and be insured to drive the vehicle. An Garda Síochána wish to highlight that it is an offence for these vehicles to be used in public places such as beaches, parks and public areas. This illegal and anti - social use of scramblers and quads causes fear and intimidation in our communities. Anyone concerned about scrambler or quad bike activity on dunes or beaches should contact the Gardaí who will enforce the Public Order Act and the Road Traffic Act.

Contact Person David Friel 087 7801596

Municipal District of Donegal

12 th January 2021

1. Town & Village Renewal – Donegal MD

 Donegal Town  Glencolmcille  Killybegs  Rossnowlagh

2. Town & Villa ges Accelerated Measures

 Bundoran - Round 1  Donegal Town - Round 2

3. Playground Maintenance

4. Peace IV Shared Spaces Project - Playgrou nds in Bruckless

5. Sliabh Liag Development Project

6. Leader /RDP Programme Update

7. Walks & Trails update

8. Community Enhancement Programme - Community Centres and Buildings

9. Age Friendly Programme Update

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title 2018 T&V Renewal – Donegal Town

Project Enhancements & Development Works Description/Activity Works consists of:

1. Provision of a footpath 2. Provision of lining trail markings / App 3. Installation of interpretative panels / signage

Budget (if applicable) €100,000 – Department of Rural & Community Development € 25,000 – Own Resources

Progress to date within the Current Status: last quarter - i nclu sive of current status  A number of meetings have been held with Donegal Chamber of Commerce to finalise the details of the project including the options available to deliver the various elements of the project.

 Letter of Offer has been issued out to Group, signed and returned.

 Design of the proposed footpath is currently been progressed * Delete irrelevant reporting period and will be tendered in Q1 of 2021.

 Designs and procurements are underway for the other elements of the project.

 Tender asses sment complete, successful contractor to be appointed in coming weeks.

Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly All works to be complete by Q2 2021. reporting period Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Tel: 074 - 9172493 E - mail: mark.gallagher @donegalcoco.ie

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title 2019 T&V Renewal – Glencolmcille

Project Enhancements & Development Works Description/Activity Works consists of:

4. Development of a Town Plan 5. Upgrade existing footpaths 6. Provision of directional and interpretative signage 7. Provision of a bus shelter

Budget (if applicable) €100,000 – Department of Rural & Community Development € 25,000 – Own Resources

Progress to date within the Current Status: last quarter - i nclu sive of current status  A number of meetings have been held with the community group for the area to finalise the details of the project including the options available to deliver the various elements of the project.

 Letter of Offer has been issued out to Group, signed and returned

 Designs of the propo sed works are currently underway and * Delete irrelevant reporting period will be presented to the community group.

Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly Works designed, agreed with community group, tendered and reporting period construction commenced.

All works to be complete by Q2 2021.

Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Tel: 074 - 9172493 E - mail: mark.gallagher @donegalcoco.ie

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title 2018 T&V Renewal – Killybegs

Project Enhancement of Streetscape Description/Activity Works consist of:  Street Furniture  Information Panels / Directional Signage  Development of Food Hub  Enhancement of Bridge Street Budget (if applicable) €100,000 – Department of Rural & Community Development € 25,000 – Own Resources

Progress to date within the Current Status: last quarter - i nclu sive of  A number of meetings have been held with Killybegs current status Tidy Towns Committee to finalise the details of the project including the options available to deliver the various elements of the project.  Letter of Offer has been issued out to Group.  Advance Payment issued out to the Group.  Food hub works complete, food markets up and running.  Painting enhancement ongoing .  Works Tendered for proposed new shop fronts. * Delete irrelevant reporting period  Enhancement signage, maps and brochures are currently at design stage.  Works are currently being completed. Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / All wor ks expected to be complete by Q1. 2021 quarterly reporting period

Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Tel: 074 - 9172493 E - mail: [email protected] Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title 2019 T& V Renewal – Rossnowlagh

Project Enhancements & Development Works Description/Activity Works consists of:

1. Provision of a Traders Hub 2. Provision of a Sheltered Community/shared meeting area 3. Provision of Street Furniture & landscaping 4. Upgrade existing paths 5. Development of playground

Budget (if applicable) €100,000 – Department of Rural & Community Development €25,000 – Own Resources €100,000 - Peace IV Action Plan Progress to date within the Current Status: last quarter - i nclu sive of current status  A number of meetings have been held with the community group for the area to finalise the details of the project including the options available to deliver the various elements of the project.

 Design of the proposed works completed and presented to the community group.

 The Part 8 pl anning application was approved by Members at * Delete irrelevant reporting period the May Monthly meeting of Donegal county Council . The designs and tender documents for the Rossnowlagh playground and Town & Village works are complete and approved by the SEUPB. Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly  T ender evaluation report currently being prepared with contact reporting period made with the likely contractor regarding insurances etc, pending SEUPB approval and the lead in time for the playground equipment.  Works to commence in February and to be complete by Q2 2021. Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Tel: 074 - 9172493 E - mail: [email protected]

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title 2020 T& V Accelerated Measures Round 1 – Bundoran

Project  Project proposal provides for a marketing campaign to Description/Activity promote Bundoran as a domestic holiday destination for the remainder opf the year Budget (if applicable) €17,990.46 – Department of Rural & Community Development € 2,008.48 – Own Resources

Progress to date within the Current Status: last quarter - i nclu sive of  Application submitted to Department in early July in current status amount of €19,998.94  Campaign will consist of Radio advertising to at least 8 local radio stations advertising Bundoran for the shoulder season of September and October  Social media advertising campaign generally using Facebook and instagram to target 4 key audiences for Bundoran, families, young couples, adventure seekers and golden years  Funding granting in early August * Delete irrelevant reporting period Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / Marketi ng campaign to be undertaken in Q2 . 2021 quarterly reporting period

Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Three Rivers Centre Tel: 087 - 12289811 E - mail: mark.gallagher @donegalcoco.ie

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title 2020 T&V Accelerated Measures Round 2 – Donegal Town

Project  Project proposal to establish an outdoor food market, Description/Activity providing a safe place to meet, to shop within social distancing whilst building on the brand identity of Donegal Town as a foodie destination Budget (if applicable) €25,000 – Department of Rural & Community Development € 2,780 – Own Resources

Progress to date within the Current Status: last quarter - i nclu sive of  Application submitted to Department in August in current status amount of €27,780  Provides for the purchase of 8 n o 6ft foldable tables for vendors, 4 sets of cafe style tables and stackable chairs to allow for 16 chairs  The supply and fit of 21m awning with Donegal ‘foodie destination’ branding  Funding granting in early September  Letter of offer issued to the local group in mid September * Delete irrelevant reporting period Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / All works to be commenced by Q2 . 2021 quarterly reporting period

Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Three Rivers Centre Tel: 087 - 12289811 E - mail: mark.gallagher @donegalcoco.ie

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021

Activity / Project Title PLAYGROUNDS MAINTENANCE 2019/2020

Project Annual maintenance of Playgrounds Description/Activity 1. Glencolmcille. 2. Mall Park, Ballyshannon. 3. Mall Park Outdoor Gym, Ballyshannon. 4. Waterworld Playground, Bundoran. 5. St. John Bosco, Donegal Town 6. Kilcar Playground. 7. Killybegs Playground. ) Budget (if applicable) € 11,030.16 ( incl. VAT

1. Works consists of: Progress to date within the  Replacement of broken and damaged equipment. last quarter - i nclu sive of  Replace worn safety tiles and remove trip hazards. current status  Grease all equipment that contains bushes, bearings , shackles, etc.

 Carry out repairs along edges of safety surfaces.

Current Status:

 Annual Rospa Inspection Reports have been completed with

necessary repairs identified. th  Quick Quo tes tender requests issued on 10 December, 2019 th with a closing date of 10 January 2020.

 Tenders assessed January 2020.

 Annual Maintenance Tender awarded to Murphy Playground * Delete irrelevant reporting period Services Ltd.  Contractor has commenced works on the various playgrounds throug hout the county. Project Targets for the next bi - monthly/quarter ly *  All works to be completed by Q4, 2020 reporting period * Delete irrelevant reporting period Contact Person Mark Gallagher (to include telephone Executive Engineer number & e - mail address) Community, Development & Planning Services Tel: 074 - 9172493 E - mail: mark.gallagher @donegalcoco.ie Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update : January 2021 Activity / Project Title Peace IV Shared Spaces Project Activity / Project Development of Playgrou nds in Bruckless Description Budget Budget € 85,000 Bruckl ess €85,000 Progress to date The tender documents to appoint a contractor were completed and passed to the within the last two SE UPB for review and approval. T he documents were issued on the etenders th months - inclusive of website as an open procurement on Friday 13 March 2020, with an initial submission date of Friday 17 th April 2020 but was subsequently extended until current status Friday 1 st May 2020 due to COVID - 19. We received three tenderers before Fridays 12:00 noon deadline, with one coming in that afternoon which will need to be returned and not assessed. The Council has a a pre - contract meeting with the Contractor for the Bruckless Playground on July 8th in the morning to discuss the plans before the letter of acceptance is issued. Followed by a meeting with the community group in the afternoon. The contract has now been signed with the successful contractor.

Project Targets for The playground w orks are now complete , the safety inspection is currently being the next bi - monthly done which will be followed by the planned handover with the Contractor on reportin g period Thursday 3rd of December with the playground to be added to the Council insurance cover. All going to plan (pending the safety inspection and insurances) the playground should be open next weekend.

Contact Perso n James Kelly, 074 9153900 This project is supported by the EU’s Peace IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update: January 2021

Activity / Project Title Sliabh Liag Development Project

Project The project has included the development of a Visitors Centre, Ranger Description/Activity Station and toilets, 2.5km of mountain paths works together with road improvement works from Carrick Village which re presents a total investment of approx €5m Budget (if applicable) Progress to date within The visitors centre opened to the public in May 2019 following the the last quarter - official opening. An operations manager was appointed in March 2019 inclusive of current together with 3 support staff since the summer of 2019. status Visitor Management within the site requires the introduction of Car parking Bye - Laws to control traffic movement. The Council following a resolution of Donegal Municipal District Members initiated the procedure for making bye - laws (in accordance with Section 101(7) of the Road Traffic Act 1961, as amended) at the car parks in Sliabh Liag in November 2019. The closing date for submissions was 23 rd Decemb er 2019 with 55 no submissions being received. The submissions are currently being considered by the Council with a view to bringing a report to the Donegal Municipal Meetin g later in 2020. The centre closed to the public in March due to the Covid 19 pand emic . The centre re - opened to the public on June 29 th in compliance with of the Covid 19 Roadmap. Huge numbers have visited Sliabh Liag during July and August which did give rise to serious traffic /parking issues . A workshop with Members was held in October in relation to the Car Parking Bye - Laws.

Project Targets for the The facilities have been closed on a temporary basis , this matter is next bi - now being reviewed having regard to the new Covid 19 guidelines. monthly/quarterly* The Car Parking Bye - Laws will be brought before t he Members at the reporting period February 2021 Municipal meeting for adoption which will provide a vital tool to control traffic management for the 2021 season .

Contact Person Paddy Doherty (to include telephone Community & Planning Services number & e - mail address) Station Island, Lifford

Municipal District: Countywide

Activity / Project Update - January 2021

Activity / Project Title Rural Development Programme/LEADER

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

the LEADER/Rural Development Programme 2014 - 2020 Budget €12,913,873 Note: Project costs €9,6 85,406 , administration and animation costs €3,228,467 Progress to date within the There are 4 Implementing Partners within the county; Donegal last two months - inclusive of Local Development Company (DLDC), Inishowen Development current status Partnership (IDP), Údarás Na Gaeltachta and Comhar na nOileán, who are rolling out the LEADER programme on behalf of the LAG (Local Action Group). 217 projects in Donegal are

now approved by Pobal and Letters of Offer have issued/are

pending granting LEADER funding to a value of just over € 9,336 m. D onegal has the highest approved project spend nationally for the LEADER programme to date. Project Targets for the next The LCDC/LAG met on the 18 th De cember 2020, with the final bi - monthly reporting period projects coming forward for approval.

A Transitional Leader Programme has now been announced by the Department, the details of which are to be discussed at the January meeting of the LCDC/LAG .

Contact Person Seamus Canning 074 9172597 [email protected]

Municipal District:_Donegal

Activity / Project Update January 2021

Activity / Project Title Donegal Walks and Trails

File: Project Maintenance, development and promotion of walks & Description/Activity trails in Donegal including cycle routes and Greenways.

Budget (if applicable)

Progress to date within the End of September Donegal County Council submitted 7 No. last quarter - i nclu sive of applications to Measure 1 of the Outdoor Recreation current status Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2020 with a project linking Creevy to Ballyshannon being one of the submissions. (RRO/ DLDC) ha s separately submitted 2 No. applications from Donegal Local Development Company.

In October inspections completed of Lough Derg Pilgrim trail and Drumharrif forest trail.

Putting together draft of works on Bealach na Gaeltachta for ORIS 2019 spend. To include some minor works on Sli Cholm Cille.

* Delete irrelevant reporting period Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly  To visit more trails and complete the Bluestack Way reporting period  Need to arrange meeting with Coilte  Working on Tender docs for Bealach na Gaeltachta

Contact Person Darryl Connor (Outdoor Recreational Development Officer) (to include telephone 0873613811 number & e - mail address) [email protected]

Municipal District: Donegal

Activity / Project Update - January 2021

Activity / Project Community Enhancement Programme 2020 – Community Centres Title and Buildings Activity / Project Donegal LCDC received an initial fund of €77,231.72 for the Community Description Enhancement Programme 2020. Additional Funding was announced for the Community Enhancement Programme under the July Stimulus Package and Donegal LCDC has been allocated € 234,073 for award . Budget Progress to date The applications for the initial tranche of funding were assessed and agreed by within the last two the LCDC at their meeting in September. The applications for the second round months - inclusive of of funding were assessed and agreed by the LCDC at their meeting on 20 th current status Octobe r. The LCDC agreed to divide the funding equally between each MD. Project Targets for The grants awarded in Round 2 for Donegal MD are as follows: - the next bi - monthly reporting period Small Grants

CEP20/21/D Cosite Forbartha Ceantar Mhin an Aoire €412.00

CEP20/23/D Killybegs Information Office €1,000.00 CEP20/37/D Cashelard Community Development Assoc €1,000.00

Large Grants CEP20/5/D The Forge Family Resource Centre €4,580.00 CEP20/13/D Four Masters GAA Club €5,000.00 CEP20/17/D Barnesmore Community Development €1,922.80 CEP20/20/D St John Bosco Club €4,580.00 CEP20/24/D Killybegs Employment Project Ltd CLG €4,580.00

CEP20/29/D Bundoran Community €4,580.00

CEP20/33/D Inver Community Centre CLG €4,580.00

CEP20/35/D Dunkineely Community Centre Association €5,000.00 CEP20/36/D St Annes Hall Committee Ballyshannon €4,580.00 CEP20/38/D ADOPT Pettigo €5,000.00

A total of 24 Community Groups in the Donegal MD have received an offer of funding under Community Enhancement Programme in 2020. A further round of the Covid 19 Emergency Fund has also been announced, applications will be available in the coming weeks Contact Person Seamus Canning 074 9172597 [email protected]

Municipal District: All _

Activity / Project Update January 2021 h Activity / Project Title Age Friendly Project File: Project Social Inclusion Week – Radio Age Friendly Panel Description/Activity Budget (if applicable) NA Progress to date within Donegal Age Friendly Programme has created very busy phonelines the last quarter - i nclu sive and emails in the last week. To open Social Inclusion week they of current status arranged an Age Friendly full panel discussion on the Greg Hugh’s show, Highland Radio. The panel comprised of members from the Age Friendly Alliance, agencies from Donegal County Council, the Health promotion and Primary Care from the HSE, Alone, Donegal Sports Partnership, Local - link and Education Training Board.

The Interagency group talked about the Age Friendly Programme and how they have worked together as group in the last few years

but especially this year through the Covid Pandemic. Each of the

* Delete irrelevant reporting panel members explained all the different services available to Older period People in Donegal and how they can avail of them. The group spoke about the importance for Older People to keep moving through doing simple exercises, how they can keep themselves healthy at home and reminded them if they were in need of anything to contact the free - phone Helpline. The local link explained that tr ansport is still very much up and running but if Older People had any concerns about coming out and needed anything delivered to their homes to contact the Age Friendly Programme through the Helpline and they will arrange it. The radio interview ended on a positive note with a Competition for Older People.

Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly reporting period Contact Person Mairead Cranley Social Inclusion – 0876072067 [email protected]

Municipal District: All _

Activity / Project Update January 2021

Activity / Project Title Age Friendly Project File: Project Treasure Hunt of the Wild Atlantic Way for Older People Description/Activity Budget (if applicable) NA Progress to date within Donegal County Council in partnership with Inishowen Development the last quarter - i nclu sive Partnership ran a Treasure hunt of the Wild Atlantic way in Donegal. Greg of current status Hugh’s Highland radio gave out a daily clues of places along the Wild Atlantic Way In Donegal. This competition was open to Older People only to participate in, 100’s of entry’s came from older people all over Donegal. The 2 winners where John Bonner, Letterkenny and Anna McCallion . Both of them won a tablet each and training will be provided by Inishowen Development Partnership.

* Delete irrelevant reporting period

Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly reporting period Contact Person Mairead Cranley Social Inclusion – 0876072067 [email protected]

Municipal District:_ All

Activity / Project Update January 202 1 Activity / Project Title Age Friendly Project / Creative Ireland

File: Project Conversational Portrait for Older People Description/Activity Budget (if applicable) €5000 Progress to date Donegal Age Friendly, in partnership with Donegal County Council Culture within the last Division and portrait artist Andy Parsons, is looking for participants for a Creative quarter - i nclu sive of Ireland Creativity in Older Age Virtual Portrait Sitting. The project is currently current status taking place i n four local authority areas in the North West – Donegal, Roscommom (Project Leader), Leitrim and Sligo.

Invitations were sent out to over age 70 who are in a care home or cocooning at home, missing their cultural activities and interested in making new c onnections at this time. During these sessions, which will be conducted online through Zoom, Andy will create an artwork while getting to know each person and how they have responded to the last few months of Covid. In return for their time, the portraits will be delivered to the sitters who may display them in their own homes, for the enjoyment of family, friends and staff. Portraits will also be exhibited in digital form on Donegal Age Friendly, Donegal County Council and * Delete irrelevant reporting period Age & Opportunity's Bealtaine Fes tival websites and facebook pages.

To take part, the Older Person would need to have some way to access a computer or phone for a video zoom call, even if just for two to three mornings. If people wanted to take part and didn’t have access to a computer o r phone, Donegal Age Friendly Programme agreed to work with the Individuals to get them set up. There are 4 places available and we are hoping for a balance of people living at home or in a care home in the county, male and female.

The closing date for this project was Friday the 23 rd of October. 60 Older people registered for their portrait, this is currently going through a short listing process, the 4 winning participants will be notified in the coming days. Because the project was so successful the A ge Friendly Programme will seek further funding to run this project again in the future.

Andy Parsons has wide experience of working with older people and of working in care settings. He is currently the Artist - In - Residence at Sligo University Hospital, while last year he led a very susccesful Age & Opportunity - managed Artist’s Residency at Killybegs Community Hospital. There he worked with residents and staff on a project exploring traditional hand crafts common to South and South West Donegal. You can see more information about Andy’s work with Age & Opportunity here: http://bealtaine.ie/news/show/conversations_a_virtual_portrait_project_with_an dy_parsons

Project Targets for the next Bi - monthly / quarterly reporting period Contact Person Mairead Cranley Social Inclusion – 0876072067 [email protected]

Donegal MD Meeting 12 th January 2021

Item Update 1 Development Applications (1) Statistics County Totals Year to End November 2020 : Applications received 348 Granted 243 Refused 22 Deferred 60 Decided in under 2 months 129 Invalid 64

Applications to end November 2020

29 63 Invalid 111 74 64

85 126 Decisions < 56 days 121 110 Stranorlar 129 Letterkenny 46 142 Deferred 155 Inishowen 93 60 Glenties 9 26 Donegal Refused 23 20 22

167 263 Granted 311 207 243

225 417 Apps Recd 472 369 348

0 100 200 300 400 500

2 Enforcement Donegal MD November New Cases 2 Closed Cases 2 Outstanding cases on record 145 since 2012

Please note pre planning clinics during the Covid - 19 3 Notes & restrictions are on a telephone call only basis between Monthly 09.30am and 12.30pm on the dates outlined below. Schedule Planning Clinics: Dates for Q1 will be published on the website early in January and that members will be advised as soon as dates are finalised.

Please see website for further dates. http://www.donegalcoco.ie/services/planning/planningclinics/ 4 Regeneration No report Report 5 Building No report Control & Taking in Charge Community Development & Planning Services 6 Central No further update since previous report's Planning Unit

7 Further • Weekly List of applications and decisions: Information http://www.donegalcoco.ie/services/planning/weeklyplannin Click on web glists/ links to • Planning service email (to be used in correspondence with access the plannin g service): [email protected] information. • Planning Webpage: www.donegalcoco.ie/services/planning/ • Planning Application Online Query – planning reference num ber required: www.donegalcdb.ie/eplan/internetenquiry/rpt_querybysurfor recloc.asp • File Retrieval Form – to be used for file retrieval and when requesting planning sea rches: www.donegalcoco.ie/media/donegalcountyc/planning/pdfs/fil eretrieval/File%20Retrieval.pdf

Review to Renew Review of National Development Plan (NDP)

Department of Public Expenditure and Reform gov.ie/2040 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040

Public Consultation

The Minister for Public This is your opportunity to contribute your views, experiences and expertise into Review to Renew so that the updated NDP can support economic, social, Expenditure and Reform, environmental and cultural development all across the country. Michael McGrath TD, You will see two boxes underneath each question. Please insert your written invites submissions to response in the first and include any related evidence or research in the second. Review to Renew - the Please keep your responses to no more than 400 words per box. public consultation Please note that all submissions and comments submitted to the Department of on Ireland’s National Public Expenditure and Reform as part of this public consultation process may be Development Plan (the subject to release under the Freedom of Information Acts 1997 to 2003. After the consultation has closed, a summary of proposals will be compiled and published on NDP). the Department's website.

2 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 Project Ireland 2040 and the NDP

The National Development The National Planning Framework (NPF) sets the vision and strategy for the development of our country, balanced across all of our regions, towns and cities, Plan and the National out to the year 2040. The National Development Plan (NDP) provides enabling Planning Framework investment to implement the strategy and promote balanced growth. The aim of combine to form Project Project Ireland 2040 is to make Ireland a better country for all of us and for the coming generations. By 2040 there will be roughly an extra one million people Ireland 2040. living here. This population growth will require hundreds of thousands of new jobs, new homes, more cultural and social amenities, better regional connectivity and improved environmental sustainability. The NDP is a blueprint, setting out a strategic framework for public capital investment from 2018 to 2027 with a particular focus on the following Strategic Investment Priorities.

Strategic Investment Priorities

1 Housing and Sustainable Urban Development

National Road Network 2 3 Rural Development

Environmentally Sustainable Public Transport 4

5 Enterprise, Skills and Innovation Capacity

Airports and Ports 6 7 Culture, Heritage and Sport

Climate Action 8 9 Water Infrastructure

Education, Health and Childcare 10

In June 2020, a new Government took office in Ireland and it committed to bringing forward a review of the NDP to take account of the changed environment that Ireland is now facing, including the unprecedented impact of Covid-19, and to better reflect the major priorities set out in the new Programme for Government.1 These priorities are aimed at tackling the most important challenges facing us as a nation including climate action, housing, balanced regional development, healthcare, social welfare policy, transport, education, development of our arts, culture and heritage, and the associated resourcing requirements. The renewed NDP will set out a capital investment framework until 2030.

1 A Programme for Government (PfG) is a document that lays out all of the things the Government aims to achieve over its time in office.

3 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040

Review to Renew

The Government is Throughout the process of the NDP Review, the infrastructure projects which are already underway will continue to be developed and delivered. Public investment committed to capital will continue to support the economic recovery and provide confidence and investment, providing certainty to the Irish construction sector. additional public The primary aims of Review to Renew are to: investment and delivering • ensure that the overall level of capital investment planned for the future is set at the July stimulus the right level; package which included • test whether that the proposed allocations to Departments and sectors is a significant increase in correct; and public investment for • sense-check what needs to change to deliver more quickly on meeting Ireland’s capital works projects challenges and to fulfil the priorities in the Programme for Government, including on housing, health, climate action and transport. specifically designed to boost economic activity The review will not be considering the merit of individual and provide necessary projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is a matter supports for various for individual Departments and Agencies.2 A number sectors. of Government Departments are, or shortly will be, conducting their own public consultations on the various strands of infrastructure which they are responsible for delivering. You can find more information here3

Below are a series of questions which will help to inform the NDP review. It is planned to publish a renewed NDP document in mid-2021.

2 Individual projects are selected based on a detailed process which begins with Departments or Agencies setting their own sectoral strategy and goals, and then subsequently identifying specific needs or challenges to be addressed, whether that be through education, regulation, taxation or potentially expenditure on an infrastructure project 3 This consultations portal is in beta and not yet complete with all consultations.

4 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 Submissions should be sent to [email protected]

1. Forename:

2. Surname:

3. Address:

4. Email Address:

5. Please indicate if you are submitting your proposal on behalf of:

an organisation or as an individual

Name of organisation:

We need your views on:

1. Is the overall level of public spending on capital investment correct?

2. What should the capital budget be spent on?

3. What types of capital investment should be prioritised?

4. How can the management and governance of public investment be improved?

5. How is the NDP is affecting your region?

6. What is your feedback on Project Ireland 2040 communications?

7. Is there anything else you would like to add?

5 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 1. Is the overall level of public spending on capital investment correct?

Government funds are spent on delivering public ANSWER: goods and services. This can be divided into current and capital expenditure. Current expenditure covers day-to-day spending by Government Departments and bodies. Capital expenditure is spending on long term assets such as roads, bridges, hospital buildings and schools; and also on non-physical assets such as software and intellectual property. Current expenditure covers day-to-day spending by Government Departments and bodies. The website https://whereyourmoneygoes.gov.ie/en/ details the Government’s expenditure data. The table below gives an overview of proposed allocations until 2022.

pital a 3 1% 1% 1 S t o n c e i r a r l u P r o r t e e c h t t i Public o

Expenditure n %

8 2018-22 1

1 4 RATIONALE: % d u h ca lt tio ea n H 24%

What is your view on the level of capital expenditure versus current? Does the overall level of capital expenditure need to be increased or decreased? What is the appropriate level of public investment (e.g. as a share of national income) taking into consideration factors such as Covid-19; the climate challenge; the overall fiscal position; demand for infrastructure; construction sector capacity constraints; international comparisons etc.? If you think that the share should be increased, do you have a view on what areas of current spending should be scaled back?

6 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 2. What should the capital budget be spent on?

In turn, capital expenditure is allocated across a ANSWER: number of different categories, as set out in the chart below which again gives an indication of planned expenditure until 2022.

2 % 4 .2 .2 6 % 2

Capital allocations 2018-22 %

6 . 1 1

2 3 .4 % 7% . 9

4.9%

Housing, Planning ocal Government Transport, Tourism Sport ducation Skills RATIONALE: usiness, nterprise Innovation ommunications, limate Action nvironment ther Sectors

What is your view of the breakdown of capital ex- penditure across these areas? Does the share need to be adjusted? If so, what do you think the appro- priate share of allocation across Departments or sectors is in order to ensure alignment with Govern- ment priorities? Is there a sector whose share could be reduced to allow greater investment in another sector?

7 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040

Top Eight Capital Expenditure Spending Areas 2005 to 2019

Health Total for Schools Public Building Water 3rd Health Total Roads Housing eight and PPP Transport and Services Level ICT Spend areas Equipment

2005 1,264 1,145 523 421 462 418 91 49 4,373 5,883 2006 1,583 1,254 514 354 421 465 120 22 4,732 6,661 2007 1,713 1,372 678 641 529 497 147 24 5,600 7,819 2008 2,069 1,522 674 890 549 496 155 19 6,375 9,011 2009 1,769 1,168 567 674 412 512 200 15 5,317 7,333 2010 1,414 845 569 614 346 495 169 9 4,461 6,385 2011 1,017 503 510 377 315 429 77 16 3,244 4,515 2012 886 397 398 254 316 308 55 22 2,636 3,809 2013 594 295 413 265 293 275 69 39 2,242 3,387 2014 638 300 517 395 326 30 79 40 2,325 3,597 2015 612 348 572 339 320 20 53 53 2,317 3,730 2016 704 464 604 355 351 18 69 52 2,616 4,207 2017 680 760 603 367 382 19 63 55 2,929 4,601 2018 815 1,185 633 405 435 532 71 60 4,136 6,007 2019 957 1,336 790 479 564 685 138 85 5,034 7,342 Total 16,715 12,894 8,565 6,830 6,021 5,199 1,556 560 58,337 84,287 % 20% 15% 10% 8% 7% 6% 2% 1% 69% 100%

8 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 3. What types of capital investment should be prioritised?

The current Strategic Enterprise, Skills and Investment Priorities set out in Innovation Capacity the NDP are: The NPF sets the ambition of ensuring that jobs growth in the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly Housing and Sustainable area is at least matched by that of the Northern and Western and Southern Regional Assembly Urban Development areas combined, a total of 660,000 new jobs. This Public capital investment must, as a top priority, support ambition for Ireland’s regions will be achieved by the delivery and location of the homes that society investing, through the National Development Plan, in will need over the next decade and beyond, while also making places attractive for enterprise investment, ensuring that in the future the pattern of housing developing deeply rooted sectoral clustering driven by development underpins the development of more effective collaborations and built around investments compact higher-density cities, towns and other areas. in Higher Education and Further Education and Training (FET). National Road Network Airports and Ports Substantial progress has been made since the year 2000 in improving the road linkages between Dublin Investments will strongly support the continued and most of the other urban areas and regions. Under development and improvement in Ireland’s ports and the National Development Plan, the objective is to State airports by the relevant responsible commercial complete those linkages so that every region and all State Owned Enterprises (SOEs), consistent with the major urban areas, particularly those in the North- sectoral priorities already defined through National West, which have been comparatively neglected until Ports Policy and National Aviation Policy, in addition recently, are linked to Dublin by a high-quality road to continued Exchequer support for the small regional network. airports. Significant investment in Ireland’s airports and ports will play a major role in safeguarding Rural Development and enhancing Ireland’s international connectivity which is fundamental to Ireland’s international Securing regional balance is a key strand of Project competitiveness, trading performance in both goods Ireland 2040 targeting a level of growth in the and services and enhancing its attractiveness to Northern and Western, and Southern regions foreign direct investment. combined, to match that projected in the Eastern and Midland Region. Public capital investment has The importance of this objective cannot be a vital role to play to support the regions, including understated in the context of the UK’s exit from rural areas, in achieving their economic and social the EU in 2019. Maritime services programmes will potential, and in particular to facilitate the jobs growth support aids to navigation, and Coast Guard search necessary to support future population growth. and rescue and pollution prevention activities. Environmentally Sustainable Culture, Heritage and Sport Public Transport Investment in culture, heritage and sports, appropriately aligned with other NSOs included in Public investment in environmentally sustainable the NPF, can play a very important role in improving public transport systems in major urban areas and amenities and the attractiveness and liveability of nationally is a primary enabler to the National different areas, whether in cities, other urban areas, Strategic Objectives under the NPF relating to small towns and rural areas. This investment can Compact Growth in urban areas and is one of a complement and reinforce the impact of investment number of most important priorities to achieve in sustainable public transport networks and in climate action objectives. The National Development other amenities. Plans for investment in culture and Plan will deliver a public transport network that will heritage recognise that high quality infrastructure is provide high-quality passenger interchange points, critical for a vibrant heritage and culture sector and which facilitate convenient transfer between efficient that investment in our cultural heritage underpins and integrated public transport services.

9 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 social cohesion and supports strong, sustainable requiring a strong co-ordinated approach between economic growth. In terms of regional objectives, the relevant responsible State bodies and SOEs. They specific priorities are to enhance arts and culture must also be closely aligned and mutually reinforcing centres throughout the country, develop the in terms of the critical role of complementary sustainable tourism potential of our culture and taxation and regulatory measures, as well as private heritage infrastructure and improve Ireland’s outdoor investment. recreation infrastructure and natural heritage. In recognition of the vital role of culture, heritage and Water Infrastructure sport in our national life, total funding allocated to strategic investment priorities in this area is in excess Investment in our country’s water services is critical of €1 billion. in meeting the needs of our growing economy across the regions, of our people and their health and the Climate Action protection and enhancement of the quality of our environment and ensures public health. The national objective of transitioning by 2050 to a competitive, low-carbon, climate-resilient and Education, Health and environmentally sustainable economy and society must influence public capital investment choices Childcare over the next ten years. On account of the inherently Over the years ahead, the delivery of additional cross-sectoral and integrated nature of the decisions permanent school places to meet demographic required in such areas as transport, energy, agriculture demand will continue to be prioritised. The and the built environment, addressing climate change expectation is that an average of 20,000 permanent is a unique challenge for public policy. Investment school places will be delivered annually over the choices across different sectors must, therefore medium term. be coherent and highly integrated with each other

In the context of the Programme for Government priorities which include the economy, climate action, hous- ing, balanced regional development, universal healthcare, social welfare policy, transport and education, how would you rank the Strategic Investment Priorities? What is most important to you and why? What do you consider to be the greatest challenge? What would you add to this list?

ANSWER: RATIONALE:

10 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 4. How can the management and governance of public investment be improved? We are ensuring Value for Money

Reforms include

Improved Stronger Better project planning and Better assurance Increased governance of management managing of costs of major projects transparency projects and risks

Ensuring Value for Money in Public Investment

The structure and rules for the management Informed by leading international practice, and governance of public investment have been the Department is also developing a new governance strengthened with the publication of the revised and assurance process for major projects with an Public Spending Code. The Public Spending Code estimated cost of over €100 million. It will involve an (PSC), originally published in 2013, is the set of roles, independent external review of major projects at key procedures and guidance to ensure Value for Money stages focusing on robustness of planned delivery, in public expenditure across the Irish Public Service. accuracy of cost forecasts and consideration of risk. The Code applies to all organisations that spend public money. Do the structures and rules for the management and governance of public investment need to be further As part of the ongoing reform of Ireland’s public improved? If so, how can these be improved? investment management system, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has reviewed and updated the PSC. ANSWER: RATIONALE:

11 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 5. How is the NDP affecting your region?

Notwithstanding that DPER will not be considering the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is a primarily matter for individual Departments and Agencies; how, in your opinion is the NDP affecting your region? You can find Project Ireland 2040 Annual and Regional Reports here. ANSWER: RATIONALE:

6. What is your feedback on Project Ireland 2040 communications?

The National Investment Office in DPER has developed a suite of online interactive tools including the Project Ireland 2040 Tracker, Project Ireland 2040 Interactive Map, and the Project Ireland 2040 Annual and Regional Reports. Please give us your feedback on these. ANSWER: RATIONALE:

12 Review to Renew | Project Ireland 2040 7. Is there anything else you would like to add?

ANSWER: RATIONALE:

13 gov.ie/2040

Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Donegal Municipal District - 12th January 2021 Motions

Agenda Item No.5 Office Ref:DLMD-2021-01001 Submitted By: Cllr. Michael McMahon Assigned To: Emergency Services

Motion "I am asking for our fire and emergency section to complete a full design plan and costing for two new fire stations one for Bundoran and other in Ballyshannon and forward it to the department of Housing and Local Government prior to delegation from the Donegal MD meeting to the minister."

Signed Off By: GARRY MARTIN

Response: Detailed design for any project is only possible once a site or sites are identified and acquired, if necessary. It’s not practical to acquire a site or sites at this point and until such time as a conclusion is reached with the Department on what they are willing to fund. Based on recent similar Capital projects elsewhere in the Country, an estimation of Capital cost, including site acquisition, can be prepared as part of the delegations submission. This can inform the Department as part of our submission and can be prepared quickly to contribute to having the delegation at an early date. The norm for commencement of detailed design is for this to commence following Departmental sanction. A draft letter to the Department requesting the delegation, in line with agreed approach at the MD workshop on Monday 14th December 2020, was shared with the MD chair on Monday 21st December for his consideration.

Agenda Item No.6 Office Ref:DLMD-2021-01002 Submitted By: Cllr. Tom Conaghan Assigned To: Water and Environment

Motion "That the Environmental Section erect a barrier at the Donegal Town Recycling Centre as a safety measure for patrons using the facility."

Signed Off By: BRYAN CANNON

Response: Should this motion be passed a review shall be carried out at the facility with respect to any safety and health measures that may be required.

Agenda Item No.7 Office Ref:DLMD-2021-01004 Submitted By: Cllr. Barry Sweeny Assigned To: Roads and Transportation

Motion "That this Municipal District works to fast track the Ballyshannon/Belleek Greenway to a shovel ready stage in light of upcoming funding opportunities and the level of groundwork already undertaken locally. "

Signed Off By: Liam Ward

Response: Donegal County Council, through the Local Action Group under the Local Community Development Committee, and in conjunction with Donegal Local Development CLG, has commenced the process of preparing an Outdoor Recreation Strategy for County Donegal. The purpose of the Strategy is to identify the key priorities and actions in sustainably managing and developing outdoor recreation in Donegal, initially up to 2028, and then onto 2040. The Strategy will be focussed and will consider but not limited to the following; greenways, walking & cycling, paths & trails, landscape, seascape, maritime, health & wellbeing, natural & built heritage tourism, conservation and associated infrastructure. The development of the Strategy will involve extensive consultation with MD members, landowners, communities, businesses and other local and regional stakeholders. The development of the Strategy is being advanced, with the imminent appointment of Consultants to commence the consultations necessary. A significant deliverable of the work to be undertaken is an Audit of existing Outdoor Recreation infrastructure and this will help inform the future direction of the work to be undertaken. It is envisaged that the development of the Strategy will take up to 15 to 18 months and will be advanced significantly during 2021 and finalised in 2022. The development of a Ballyshannon to Belleek Greenway should be considered in the context of the development of the overall Strategy for Outdoor Recreation in County Donegal. There will be opportunities at an early stage in 2021 to raise this project as the consultations in each Municipal District gets underway. Donegal Municipal District - 12th January 2021 Questions

Agenda Item No.8 Office Ref:DLMD-2021-01003 Submitted By: Cllr. Michael McMahon Assigned To: Water and Environment

Question "When would it be possible to have a meeting with all relevant departments and agencies in regards to the illegal dumping which was particularly bad over the Christmas period?"

Signed Off By: BRYAN CANNON

Response: The Environment Section will contact Cllr. McMahon to discuss the issue raised.

Agenda Item No.9 Office Ref:DLMD-2021-01005 Submitted By: Cllr. Barry Sweeny Assigned To: Roads and Transportation

Question "Can the Roads engineer assess the busy junction and pedestrian crossing at Spar shop in Ballyshannon to improve safety and in this area. Driver behaviour is an issue here and perhaps consideration should be given to a "yellow box" or a "courtesy" parking space to suit elderly shoppers or taxi pick-ups."

Signed Off By: MARK SWEENEY

Response: The Area Roads office will review this location to see what additional measures can be implemented to help address the issue of driver behaviour.