Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

CHOMHAIRLE CHONTAE NA GAILLIMHE

MINUTES OF MONTHLY MEETING OF COUNTY COUNCIL HELD AT ÁRAS AN CHONTAE, ON MONDAY 30th JANUARY, 2017 AT 2.00 P.M.

CATHAOIRLEACH: Cllr. M. Connolly, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway I LATHAIR FREISIN:

BAILL: Cllrs. T. Broderick, D. Burke, J. Byrne, N. Byrne, I. Canning, J. Charity, B. Connelly, D. Connolly, G. Cronnelly, Comh. S. Ó Cualáín, Cllrs. J. Cuddy, S. Cunniffe, Comh. T. Ó Curraoin, Cllrs. S. Donnellan, A. Donohue, M. Fahy, P. Feeney, G. Finnerty, M. Finnerty, T. Healy, M. Hoade, P. Hynes, F. Kearney, P. Keaveney, D. Killilea, M. Kinane, M. Maher, E. Mannion, J. McClearn, K. McHugh, P. Roche, N. Thomas, Comh S. Ó Tuairisg, Cllrs. S. Walsh, T. Welby OIFIGIGH: Mr. K. Kelly, Chief Executive (Interim); Mr. J.Cullen, Director of Service; Ms. C. McConnell, Messrs. M. Owens and M. Timmins, Acting Directors of Service; Mr. G. Mullarkey, Head of Finance; Ms. M. Ní Chionna, Senior Engineer; Ms. E. Dolan, Acting County Secretary & Meetings Administrator; Mr. M. O’Donnell, Project Manager, Galway 2020; Ms. Marilyn Gaughan Reddan, Programme Development Officer, Galway 2020; Mr. S. Kilroy A/Staff Officer; Ms. G. Healy, Staff Officer.

Thosnaigh an Cruinniú leis an Paidir. RESOLUTIONS OF SYMPATHY 2923 Cllr. Donohue extended a vote of sympathy to the family of Mr. Michael J. Kilgannon, Woodlawn, , former Galway County Councillor, who passed away recently. He said that Mr. Kilgannon had served his local community very well and was especially instrumental in ensuring that the Dublin to Galway train continued to stop at Woodlawn, Ballinasloe. Cllrs. D. Connolly and Kearney also wished to be associated with the vote of sympathy to Mr. Kilgannon’s wife Maureen and family.

1

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

Cllr. N. Byrne wished to extend a vote of sympathy on the recent death of Mr. Gabriel Ryan, Roscahill, to his wife Ann, daughter Gabrielle, employee of Galway County Council, and sons Thomas and Francis. Cllr. Fahy proposed that a vote of sympathy be extended to the family of the late Mr. Padraic Killilea, uncle of Cllr. Donagh Killilea and brother of former County Councillor and M.E.P. Mark Killilea. A Resolution of Sympathy was also extended to the following: Mrs. Marie Comer, Cloonagh, , Co. Galway. Mrs. Carmel Fallon, Tarmon, , Co. Galway. Mr. Sean Staunton, Scarriff, Tubber, Co. Galway. Mrs. Bernie Regan, Kilbeacanty, Gort, Co. Galway. Mrs. Mary Anne Connolly, Seamupheistín, Costello, Connemara, Co. Galway. Mairín Breathnach, Cladach O’ Dheas, , Co. na Gaillimhe. Mr. Jimmy Linnane, Letterdyfe, Roundstone, Co. Galway. Mr. Padhraic Ridge (Joe Joe), Tiernee, , Co. Galway. Mr. Gerard Grealish, Cill Bhriocáin, Rosmuc, Co. na Gaillimhe. Mr. Colm Ó Fiannachta, Tuairín, An Cheathrú Rua, Co. na Gaillimhe. Mrs. Tess O’Connell, Cloonbiggean, Claregalway, Co. Galway. Mrs. Ann Hogan, Monument Road, , Co. Galway. Mrs. Peggy Tierney, Rusheeney, , Co. Galway. Mrs. Nellie Murphy, Waterview, , Co. Galway. Mr. Michael Walsh, Abbeytown, Caherlistrane, Co. Galway. Mrs. Mary Halloran, Glenlusk, , Co. Galway. Mrs. Maureen Winters, Killnadeema, , Co. Galway. Mrs. Mary Connors, Gurtanumera, , Co. Galway. Mr. Peter Kiely, Ballydonagh, Tynagh, Loughrea, Co. Galway. Mrs. Maureen Kilgannon, Monaveen, Woodlawn, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Mr. Gerard O’Dea, Kiltrogue, Claregalway, Co. Galway. Mr. Tony Glavin, Monard, Turloughmore, Co. Galway. Mrs. Ann Ryan, Fahy, Roscahill, Co. Galway. Mrs. Anita Daly, Green Road, Claddaghduff, Co. Galway. Mr. Tom Meehan, Claddagh, Lavally, , Co. Galway.

2

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

Mr. Tom & Mary Reilly, 20 Trinity Court, Tuam, Co. Galway. Mr. Tommie Neylan, Weir, , Co. Galway.

The Cathaoirleach proposed that the Meeting be adjourned for 5 minutes as a mark of respect to the former Members of the Council and for all the deceased. The Meeting resumed following the adjournment. Ms. Dolan, referring to the Agenda, said that a Notice of Motion which had been received from Cllr. Kinane was omitted from the Agenda but would be included for consideration under the Item Notices of Motion on the Agenda.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF THE MONTHLY MEETING HELD ON 19th DECEMBER 2016. 2924

Cllr. Healy referred to the item regarding Notice of Motion No. 24 on page 30 of the Minutes and he said he wished to amend the Minutes to record that he raised particular concerns in relation to people under the age of 18 attending libraries unaccompanied.

The Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of the Council held on 19th December 2016, with the amendment requested by Cllr. Healy on page 30 as follows “Cllr. Healy raised particular concerns in relation to people under the age of 18 attending libraries unaccompanied” were APPROVED by the Council and signed by the Cathaoirleach, on the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Maher, SECONDED by Cllr. N. Byrne.

ARISING FROM THE MINUTES:

Cllr. D. Connolly referred to the item regarding the Galway City Ring Road and he stated that many county roads are in need of improvement works. In particular, he said that the junction at Nutfield Cross on the main Ballinasloe to road is a serious accident blackspot and he asked that funding be made available for improvement works as soon as possible to prevent fatalities at this location. He said that a special meeting of Ballinasloe Municipal District Council should be convened to discuss the junction.

Cllr. Broderick also expressed concern regarding traffic safety at Nutfield Cross and he proposed that a meeting take place between local Councillors and Officials to discuss improved safety measures at this junction.

The Chief Executive said that the Council received the 2017 allocation for non-national roads of just over €20m which represented an increase of over €1m on the 2016 allocation. He said that the Roads Department will prepare the Roads Programme for consideration of the Members and that Nutfield Cross and other locations around the County could be addressed by the Members in the context of the Roads Programme.

3

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

Cllr. McClearn said that it is important that the additional €1m allocation for non-national roads be reflected in the Roads Programme throughout the County.

Cllr. J. Byrne expressed the view that the additional allocation should be used to carry out low-cost safety improvements, particularly adjacent to schools.

Cllr. Fahy referred to the proposals for the Galway City Ring Road stating that it is essential that planning permission be received to allow this road to be constructed in order to solve the traffic problems at Parkmore and at other locations leading in to Galway City.

Comh. Ó Tuairisg said that it is not acceptable that Galway County receives less funding from Central Government and has less staff than smaller neighbouring Counties and he said that, the Council should invite local T.D.’s to attend Municipal District Meetings to discuss this unfair treatment of the County of Galway Local Authority area.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS 2925

The Report of the Environment & Water Services Strategic Policy Committee Meeting held on 5th October 2016, was APPROVED by the Council on the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Donnellan, SECONDED by Comh. Ó Curraoin.

TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 ON THE DISPOSAL OF 0.070 HECTARES OF LAND AT RAHEEN, , CO. GALWAY. 2926

[Statutory Notice and Report dated 12th January, 2017 were already circulated to each Member within the statutory timeframe.]

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Feeney, SECONDED by Cllr. Maher, the disposal of 0.070 hectares of land at Raheen, Athenry, Co. Galway, as outlined in the Notice, was AGREED.

TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER PART 8 OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 (AS AMENDED) – EXTENSION TO BURIAL GROUND, CLARINBRIDGE, CO. GALWAY. 2927 [Report available to the Members on the Extranet]

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Kinane, SECONDED by Cllr. Cuddy, the proposed extension to Clarinbridge Burial Ground, Clarinbridge, Co. Galway, as outlined in the Report, was AGREED.

TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER PART 8 OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 (AS AMENDED) – FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF 2 NO. SPECIAL NEEDS

4

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

UNITS, 1 NO. 4 BEDROOM AND 1 NO. 5 BEDROOM DETACHED UNITS IN ESKER FIELDS, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY. 2928 Report dated January 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

Mr. Owens, referring to the Report, said that the Part 8 proposal before the Members for consideration, consisting of 2 no. 2-storey semi-detached units and comprising of 1 no. 4 bedroomed and 1 no. 5 bedroomed unit, was supported by a number of assessments including an Ecological Impact Assessment, Report on Civil Works, Flood Risk Assessment and a Renewable Energy Feasibility Report and Utility Feasibility Report.

Mr. Owens said that the recommendation was that the Members approve the proposal, subject to the 6 no. recommendations, as detailed in the Report.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. M. Finnerty, SECONDED by Cllr. Dononue, the proposed construction of 2 no. 2-storey semi-detached special needs units consisting of 1 no. 4 bedroom and 1 no. 5 bedroom detached units at Esker Fields, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, as outlined in the Report, was AGREED.

TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER PART 8 OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 (AS AMENDED) – FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF 10 NO. 3 BEDROOM, SEMI DETACHED UNITS IN GARBALLY DRIVE, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY. 2929 [Chief Executive’s Report dated January 2017, available to the Members on the Extranet] [Flood Risk Assessment dated July 2016, prepared by Tobin Consulting Engineers, available to the Members on the Extranet]

Mr. Owens, referring to the Chief Executive’s Report, said that the Part 8 proposal before the Members was for the construction of 10 no. 2-storey, semi-detached, 3 bedroomed dwelling houses and associated services. He said that the proposal was supported by a number of assessments including an Ecological Impact Assessment, Report on Civil Works, Flood Risk Assessment and a Renewable Energy Feasibility Report and Utility Feasibility Report.

He said that the proposal was subject to a public consultation process and that 3 no. submissions were received, one of which was received outside the statutory timeframe for submissions. He said that the 2 no. Submissions received within the statutory timeframe were dealt with in the Report. He said that the Report confirmed that the development is consistent with the surrounding land use and is compatible with the existing pattern of development within the estate.

Mr. Owens said that the recommendation was that the Members approve the proposal, subject to the 9 no. recommendations, as detailed in the Chief Executive’s Report.

Cllr. Finnerty welcomed a number of representatives from the Garbally Drive Residents Association who were present at the Meeting. He said that the Residents had concerns that,

5

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

the construction of the houses might cause flooding. He thanked Mr. Owens for having met with the Residents recently in order to hear their concerns in relation to the proposal.

Mr. Owens, referring to the Flood Risk Assessment dated July 2016, said that the Assessment indicated that the proposed development at Garbally Drive is located approximately 675m outside a 1-1000 year fluvial flood extents of the River Suck. He also said that the Flood Risk Assessment indicates that the OPW online National Flood Hazard Mapping database does not provide any record of flood events occurring at the development site.

Cllr. Finnerty thanked Mr. Owens for clarifying the matter, however he said that local people were not convinced that flooding would not occur at the site of the development.

Cllr. D. Connolly also acknowledged that Mr. Owens had met with residents of Garbally Drive in relation to their concerns regarding the proposal and he asked if all of the issues raised by the residents had been addressed and Mr. Owens replied as follows:

In relation to concerns regarding traffic management in the estate, Mr. Owens said that a traffic management plan will be developed as part of the health and safety plan for the project and the traffic managed appropriately during the construction phase of the project. He said that issues raised which are outside of the Part 8 Planning Process have been referred to the Council’s Roads & Transportation Department for investigation.

In relation to flooding concerns, he said that this is dealt with in the Flood Risk Assessment Report which was available to the Members. He also said that the Council acknowledged all concerns raised regarding flooding both during and following the statutory public consultation period and these issues were reviewed by Tobin Consulting Engineers who prepared the Flood Risk Assessment Report on the proposal. He said that following this review, the Flood Risk Assessment remains as per the Report of July 2016 which does not indicate any issue of flooding. He referred the Members to Figure 3 of the Flood Risk Assessment, Extract from OPW Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment Mapping, which does not indicate the existence of a turlough on the development site. The conclusion of the Flood Risk Report is that the site is located 8.1 m above the 1 in 1000 year water level, which is 605 metres from the proposed development and the site is not predicted to flood during a 1 in 1000 year flood event.

In relation to surface water generated by the development, Mr. Owens referred to Recommendation No. 2 of the Chief Executive’s Report which states that all surface water generated by the development shall be disposed of within the site and shall not be discharged onto the adjoining property and that only clean uncontaminated storm water shall be discharged to the soakaway system or surface waters.

Cllrs. D. Connolly, M. Finnerty, M. Connolly and A. Donohue expressed the view that local knowledge regarding flooding should be taken into account and requested that further

6

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

investigation should be carried out in relation to the risk of flooding due to the proposed development.

Mr. Owens said that Reports indicate that there is a 0.1% risk of flooding in a 1/10,000 year flood event. He said that a deferral of the Item would delay the tender process and would postpone the delivery of the housing scheme in the context of the Council’s Housing Strategy.

In reply to Cllr. Broderick, Mr. Owens said that the Roads & Transportation Department and the Water Services Department will report to the Residents Association in relation to existing issues in the estate which were raised and which are outside of the Part 8 Planning Process.

Cllr. M. Finnerty PROPOSED that this Item in relation to the Part 8 for housing development at Garbally Drive, Ballinasloe, be deferred for discussion at the February 2017 Monthly Meeting of Plenary Council, pending receipt of further information in relation to flooding concerns. This proposal was SECONDED by Cllr. Burke and AGREED.

FILLING OF CASUAL VACANCY ON THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE NORTHERN & WESTERN REGIONAL AUTHORITY 2930

[Report dated 12th January, 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Comh. Ó Curraoin, SECONDED by Cllr. Welby, and AGREED, that Cllr. D. Connolly be appointed to the Northern & Western Regional Authority, to fill the vacancy arising from the resignation of Comh. Ó Curraoin from the Committee.

FILLING OF CASUAL VACANCY ON THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE ROADS & TRANSPORTATION STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE 2931 [Report dated 17th January, 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. McClearn, SECONDED by Cllr. Maher, and AGREED, that Cllr. M. Finnerty be appointed as Chairperson of the Roads & Transportation Strategic Policy Committee, to fill the vacancy arising from the resignation of Cllr. M. Maher from this role as Chairperson of the Committee.

FILLING OF CASUAL VACANCY ON THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE 2932 [Report dated 17th January, 2017 available to the Memberson the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. McClearn, SECONDED by Cllr. Maher, and AGREED, that Cllr. P. Feeney be appointed as Chairperson of the Economic Development Strategic Policy Committee, to fill

7

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

the vacancy arising from the resignation of Cllr. J. McClearn from this role as Chairperson of the Committee.

FILLING OF CASUAL VACANCY ON THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE ASSOCIATION OF IRISH LOCAL GOVERNMENT 2933

[Report dated 17th January, 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Feeney, SECONDED by Cllr. Kearney, and AGREED, that Cllr. J. McClearn be appointed to the Association of Irish Local Government, to fill the vacancy arising from the resignation of Cllr. P. Feeney from the Committee.

TO CONSIDER AND IF DEEMED APPROPRIATE TO AUTHORISE THE ATTENDANCE AT TRAINING IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 142(5a) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 AS AMENDED 2934 [Report dated 17th January, 2017 was available to the Members on the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Maher, SECONDED by Cllr. Kearney, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Galway County Council Training on Local Government Environmental Services – to be held at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway on 2nd February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. Mannion, Cuddy, Cunniffe, Kearney, Donnellan and Comh. Ó Tuairisg.

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. J. Byrne, SECONDED by Cllr. Donohue, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Galway County Council Training on Local Government Roads & Transportation Services – to be held at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway on 9th February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. Mannion, Cuddy, Kearney, Cunniffe and Comh. Ó Tuairisg.

It was PROPOSED by Comh. Ó Curraoin, SECONDED by Cllr. N. Byrne, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Galway County Council Training on Local Government Water Services – to be held at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway on 16th February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. Mannion, Cuddy, Kearney and Cunniffe.

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Byrne, SECONDED by Cllr. Maher, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Galway County Council In-House Training on Local Government Funding & Financial Management – to be held at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway on 23rd February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. Kearney, Welby, Mannion, Kinane, Donnellan, Cuddy and Comh. Ó Curraoin.

8

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. McClearn, SECONDED by Cllr. N. Byrne, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Galway County Council Cúrsa Gaeilge do Chomhairleoirí/Irish Course for Councillors – to be held at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway, weekly for 8 no. weeks commencing on 31st January 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. Hoade, Fahy, Cuddy, J. Byrne, Mannion, Healy and Kearney.

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Hoade, SECONDED by Cllr. Maher, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the AILG Training – New National Planning Framework Information Module – to be held at the designated location at Kilmore Hotel, Cavan on 7th February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. Hoade, Hynes, Kearney, Cunniffe, Healy, Kinane, Donnellan, Welby, Maher, Fahy, Comh. Ó Tuairisg and Ó Curraoin.

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. M. Connolly, SECONDED by Cllr. McClearn, and AGREED, that on an exceptional once-off basis retrospective authorisation be approved for the attendance of the Member named hereunder at the AILG Training – New National Planning Framework Information Module – to be held at the designated location at Kilmore Hotel, Cavan on 7th February 2017, be authorised: Cllr. P. Feeney

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Maher, SECONDED by Cllr. N. Byrne, and AGREED, that on an exceptional once-off basis retrospective authorisation be approved for the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the AILG Training– New National Planning Framework Information Module – to be held at the designated location at Kilmore Hotel, Cavan on 7th February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. P. Roche and A. Donohue.

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Maher, SECONDED by Comh. Ó Curraoin, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the AILG Training – New National Planning Framework Information Module – to be held at the alternative location at Dooley’s Hotel, Waterford on 11th February 2017, be authorised: Cllr. McClearn.

TO CONSIDER AND IF DEEMED APPROPRIATE TO AUTHORISE THE ATTENDANCE AT CONFERENCES IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 142(5) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 (AS AMENDED) 2935 [Report dated 24th January 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Comh. Ó Curraoin, SECONDED by Cllr. Donnellan, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Member named hereunder at the ACE Social Media Training for Councillors to be held at the Clonakilty Hotel, Co. Cork on 22nd – 23rd February 2017, be authorised: Cllr. S. Cunniffe

9

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. McClearn, SECONDED by Cllr. Kearney, and AGREED, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the 28th Colmcille Winter School – Ireland & the E.U. Post Brexit, to be held at Churchill, Letterkenny on 24th – 25th February 2017, be authorised: Cllrs. A. Donohue and M. Kinane.

TO NOTE THE SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES ATTENDED IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 142 (5f) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 (AS AMENDED) 2936 [Report dated 24th January 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

It was PROPOSED by Cllr. Maher, SECONDED by Cllr. N. Byrne and AGREED, to note the Summary of Proceedings at the following Conferences:

A Practical Guide to Budget 2017 held on 28th – 30th October 2016, as submitted by Cllr. N. Thomas. Housing Grants and Schemes held on 22nd – 24th January 2016, as submitted by Cllr. S. Cunniffe. ADOPTION OF THE ‘ ROAD TRAFFIC SPECIAL SPEED LIMITS BYE-LAWS NO. 1 – 2016 (HOUSING ESTATES SLOW ZONES)’ 2937 [Report dated 17th January 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

The Members welcomed the Special Speed Limit Bye-Laws and, in reply to Comh. Ó Tuairisg, Mr. Timmins said that special speed limits can only be put in place in housing estates which are in the charge of the Council.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Killilea, SECONDED by Cllr. N. Byrne, the Members AGREED to adopt the County Galway Road Traffic Special Speed Limits Bye-Laws No. 1 – 2016 (Housing Estates Slow Zones), as per the Report dated 17th January, 2017.

TO CONSIDER INIS MÓR HARBOUR BYELAWS PASSENGER LEVY 2938 [Report dated 27th January 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

The Chief Executive referred to the discussions held between Galway County Council, the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Affairs and Island Ferries Teo in the period November/December 2016 in relation to the ferry service to Inis Mór. He said that this Item had been placed on the Agenda in order to formalise the outcome of the discussions, as detailed at (1) – (10) of the Report dated 27th January 2017. He also said that having regard to all relevant matters and to give effect to the proposal as outlined at (10) of the Report, and previously agreed, Galway County Council, in accordance with Sections 66 and 67 of the Local Government Act 2001 needs to formally approve that the amount payable

10

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

in respect of individual casual passengers (other than multi-trip passengers) will be discounted from a rate of 80 cents per passenger to a rate of 55 cents per passenger for the period to 30th June, 2019.

Comh. Ó Tuairisg welcomed the Report stating that the agreement reached brings certainty regarding the ferry service to Inis Mór for the period to 30th June, 2019 and he said that the recording of passenger numbers by the ferry operator is essential. He said that the islanders deserve a good ferry service to the mainland all-year round and it is past time that a Public Service Obligation Contract (PSO) be put in place for Inis Mór to ensure that the operator of the ferry service to Cill Rónain is not in a position to withdraw or alter its service under contract.

Comh. Ó Cualáin concurred with Comh. Ó Tuairisg regarding the need for a PSO in respect of the ferry service to Inis Mór.

Cllrs. N. Byrne and Healy also welcomed the fact that certainty had been reached regarding the ferry service up to June 2019 and expressed the view that the Executive and Members of the Council had been very helpful in resolving the issue with the ferry operator and they hoped that the matter would be resolved with a permanent solution going forward.

Cllr. Welby asked if progress had been made regarding discussions with the other passenger ferry operators to the island and the Chief Executive replied that he had already met with one operator and hoped to meet with the others shortly in order to bring matters to a conclusion in relation to the Inis Mór Harbour Byelaws passenger levy.

On the PROPOSAL of Comh. Ó Tuairisg, SECONDED by Comh. Ó Cualáin, the Members AGREED to approve that the amount payable in respect of individual casual passengers (other than multi-trip passengers) will be discounted from a rate of 80 cents per passenger to a rate of 55 cents per passenger for the period to 30th June, 2019.

TO CONSIDER THE MANAGEMENT REPORT – JANUARY 2017 IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 136(2) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 (AS AMENDED) 2939 [Report dated 27th January 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet]

Cllrs. Killilea and Hoade welcomed the appointment by the Council of 9 no. permanent General Operative posts across various Municipal Districts.

In reply to Comh. Ó Tuairisg and Cllr. J. Byrne, the Chief Executive said that the location of the 9 no. posts arises as a result of staff losses over a period and that the request from the Roads Department was for far in excess of 9 General Operatives. He said that the Council must determine available budgets when appointing staff and when the Council receive additional

11

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

roads grants from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) the option is there to recruit temporary staff for a period in order to carry out additional works.

Cllr. G. Finnerty welcomed the road grant allocations from DTTAS and the additional €1.1m over the 2016 allocation. In relation to staff, he said that the Council could tap into the resources of the Rural Social Scheme in order to assist in some areas of work.

Cllr. Hoade expressed the view that the work of the Rural Social Scheme is invaluable to communities and villages.

In reply to Cllr. Thomas, Mr. Timmins said that the details of the proposed roads programme would be provided to the Members at the upcoming Meetings of the Municipal District Councils.

Comh. Ó Curraoin referred to the Resolution which was passed at the December 2016 Meeting of the Council that a Finance Committee made up of Executive and Elected Members be set up by the Council. He made the following PROPOSAL “that this Council should proceed with the setting up of a finance committee at today’s meeting”. Cllr. K. McHugh SECONDED this proposal.

Cllr. McClearn said that the terms of reference of the Committee should be concise and he proposed that the Finance Committee comprise 10 Members and Comh. Ó Curraoin seconded this proposal.

Cllr. Welby agreed with Cllr. McClearn that the Committee comprise 10 Members. He said that it was essential that the Committee be in place in the coming months so that funding be in place by the summer before discussions on the budget commence at the September 2017 Monthly Meeting of the Council.

Cllr. Hoade said that the purpose of the committee is to examine the finances of the Council and to ensure that the Government provides adequate funding to Galway County Council and eliminate any disparity in funding received by Galway County Council in comparison with other smaller neighbouring Counties. She said that these matters need to be resolved well in advance of preparations for the Budget 2018 which begin in September 2017.

The Cathaoirleach said that the primary reason for the setting up of a Finance Committee was to address the chronic underfunding received by Galway County Council from Central Government.

Cllr. Cunniffe said that the Members need to be provided with adequate information in advance of discussions on the annual budget, including information regarding revenue from the Non-Principal Private Residence charge (NPPR) and how this revenue is spent.

12

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

Cllr. B. Connelly said that the Finance Committee should be set up without delay.

Cllrs. Cuddy and Roche said that the increase of the Local Property Tax in 2016 was received negatively by the public and this needs to be addressed. Cllr. Roche also said that Municipal District Councils need to examine ways of achieving savings and cost effectiveness, for example by engaging the assistance of Community Employment Schemes, the Rural Social Scheme, TÚS and FÁS Community Work Placement Initiatives.

Cllr. Fahy said that a Finance Committee was in place in the Council in the past and he agreed that it is warranted again at this stage. He also expressed the view that the Council should engage a Public Relations Officer in order to inform the public on the good work being carried out by the Council.

The Chief Executive said that it would be beneficial if the role and powers of the Finance Committee be discussed by the Corporate Policy Group prior to the setting up of the Committee and that this will take place at the next CPG Meeting prior to the February Monthly Meeting of the Council.

Cllr. Feeney said that while he agreed that a Finance Committee be set up, he would be concerned if the Committee were set up in the absence of any terms of reference or guidance on the role of such a Committee and he felt that it would be important to start on a firm footing in order to achieve the required results.

Clllr. Donohue concurred with Cllr. Feeney stating that it is important that the role of the Committee be known prior to setting it up.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. McClearn, SECONDED by Cllr. Healy, the Members AGREED to note the Management Report for January, 2017.

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS 2940

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. McClearn, SECONDED by Cllr. Kearney, it was AGREED that the Standing Orders be suspended in order that Item 18 on the Agenda be taken before Item 17.

TO RECEIVE A PRESENTATION – BRIEFING ON THE NORTHERN & WESTERN REGIONAL ASSEMBLY AND NATIONAL PLANNING NETWORK 2941

The Cathaoirleach introduced Mr. David Minton, Director of the Northern & Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) who presented a briefing to the Members on the Northern & Western Regional Assembly and National Planning Network.

13

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

He gave an outline of the various aspects of the role of the NWRA as follows:

 Co-ordinating Regional Planning  Driving development locally  Funding Opportunities – INTERREG  Regional Investment Programme  Enhancing the attractiveness of Cities and Towns in the Region  Supporting Pilot Actions for Early-Stage Technology Based Enterprise  Improvement of Sustainable Energy Policy Tools in Local Government  Supporting Innovation in the Medical Technology Sector

Mr. Minton said that the National Planning Framework which is developed to succeed the National Spatial Strategy, will provide a framework for national planning, pulling together relevant government policies and investment on national and regional development. He said the focus of the National Planning Framework will be on economic development and investment in housing, water services, transport, communications, energy, health and education infrastructure.

He referred to the Diploma in European Union Funding which is being made available with the aim of educating participants in relation to making applications for European Funding Programmes and he said this will be very beneficial to interested parties.

Cllr. McClearn welcomed the Diploma in European Funding stating that applications and draw-down of funding can be complicated. He said that balanced regional development is needed and that the National Planning Framework is very important and needs to be successful.

Cllr. Cunniffe said that in order for the National Planning Framework to succeed, it will be necessary that funding be made available to support the Framework. He said that tourism should be a huge aspect of economic development, but funding is the core issue in this regard.

In reply to the Cathaoirleach and Cllr. Healy, Mr. Minton agreed that adequate roads infrastructure is needed in order to achieve balanced regional development and in order to attract and retain businesses in the west of Ireland.

Cllr. Welby said that rural planning will be a major factor going forward, however he said that the LEADER programme will be complicated as regards drawing down funding.

In reply to Cllrs. D. Connolly and G. Cronnelly, Mr. Minton said that NWRA has responsibility for funding 50% of the Government’s National Broadband Plan. This Plan aims to ensure that all citizens and businesses have access to high speed broadband. He said that it is intended that the tender process for the National Broadband Plan will be completed by April 2017 and that the work be completed by 2019.

The Cathaoirleach thanked Mr. Minton for making the presentation to the Members. 14

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

TO RECEIVE A PRESENTATION ON GALWAY 2020 – EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE [Report dated 30th January, 2017 available to the Members on the Extranet] 2942

The Chief Executive welcomed Mr. Mark O’Donnell and Ms. Marilyn Gaughan Reddan from the Gaillimh/Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture Team who were in attendance at the Meeting to give a presentation to the Members on the current status of the project. He said that the question of funding to be provided by Galway County Council towards 2020 would be considered in the first instance by the Corporate Policy Group and that the CPG recommendation would be brought to the full Council for consideration at the next Monthly Meeting.

Mr. O’Donnell said that the Bid was a joint endeavour by Galway City and County Councils. At the core of the bid was the aim to provide an unprecedented and unparalleled cultural experience connecting Galway City, Galway County, and the wider region, with Europe and the world through the use of culture as a driver to effect positive economic, environmental and societal impacts in both the medium and long term. He referred in his presentation to the Bid Book previously circulated to Members. He outlined the series of events which culminated in Galway being announced as the winner of the bid on 15th July, 2016 and outlined the following in respect of the Bid:

• The County/Rural dimension was a compelling aspect of the winning Galway Bid; • The programme reflects a spread of activity that is relevant, participatory, of high cultural quality, achievable and is attractive to local communities as well as visitors to the area; • Capacity building and long term cultural legacy that will impact equally across County and City are at the heart of the programme strategy;

• Large Projects led by cultural organisations will take place in both the County and City

Artist residencies, exchanges and site specific projects will take place across the County (2017-2020)

• Towns & villages will be facilitated to organise their own programmes in the Towns 2020 Programme (2016 - 2020)

• An inclusive and wide-spread Schools Programme will take place (2017-2020)

• The Islands will feature heavily in a number of 2020 projects (2018-2020)

Mr. O’Donnell gave a breakdown of the operating budget of €45.7m for the projects and said that the delivery of the projects will be based on strong governance with a robust corporate governance structure.

He outlined the next steps and Delivery Strategy of the Programme as follows:

15

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

• The Team is currently building for delivery of Galway 2020 • Galway 2020 Company is incorporated • Strong emphasis on Governance Structures • Recruitment Campaign commenced • Programme Development ongoing • Communication & Engagement ongoing • Collaboration with European Region of Gastronomy & European Green Leaf • EU Monitoring Committee Reporting in March 2017

He referred to the economic and social benefits and how this has been tracked and objectively quantified in other previously designated Capital of Cultures. Mr. O’Donnell referred for example, to the need increased capacity in visitor services and accommodation that will be required which will provide a direct positive business impact on the County.

Ms. Gaughran Reddan outlined the vision behind the Galway 2020 Capital of Culture Programme stating that its concept is Making Waves and gave an overview of the cultural and artistic content of the 2020 project, stating that Making Waves is both the concept for the programme as well as the metaphor and the action which will be used to give effect to the ambitious programme.

She outlined the vision behind the Galway 2020 Programme and the themes including migration, language and landscape and outlined that Galway will be the first ever Virtual Capital of Culture.

Ms. Gaughan Reddan said that Galway 2020 will not be a yearlong Arts Festival but, instead it will focus on culture in its broadest possible sense including arts, sports, language, architecture, food and includes chefs, writers, artists, sportspersons, filmmakers, tradesmen, musicians, scientists etc. She emphasised that 2020 offers an opportunity to put Galway on the map culturally, not just in Europe but globally, and she outlined the tourism, economic and environmental benefits of the designation as well as the increased capacity of the professional arts and cultural sector and community sector and local government will gain in the programme development and delivery of this large scale project.

She outlined that the project will contribute to the long-term strategy as anticipated by Galway’s Cultural Strategy to 2025 and be subject to monitoring and evaluation.

Ms. Gaughan described the cultural and artistic content of the 2020 Programme which displays vision, scale and excellence with a European vision and which will involve the Citizens of the City and County. She referred to specific projects including Symphonic Waves which has commenced to create music opportunities for classical musicians in training and has already attracted EU co-funding and is based in [Báile Chláir] Claregalway with a County-wide

16

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

impact. She advised that Communities have already been engaging extensively and that programming is already commenced with the need for a three year lead in on some projects.

Following the presentations by Mr. O’Donnell and Ms. Gaughan, the Cathaoirleach thanked them and congratulated all involved in the successful bid for European Capital of Culture 2020.

Cllr. Healy also congratulated the Bid Team for the very positive and professionally developed Bid put forward. He said that the projected spend of €45.7m brings with it a major responsibility and that the Members have an oversight function in regard to expenditure of any funds provided by the Council to the programme. Cllr. Healy raised the matter of recent queries on ECOC expenditure.

Mr. O’Donnell, in reply to Cllr. Healy, acknowledged that the Members have an oversight role and he said that a robust corporate governance structure will be in place in relation to the 2020 programme, led by a strong Board comprising representation from the local authorities and Government Departments. He said that all queries in relation to ECOC expenditure were replied to in full. He noted that that the ECOC structure will have sub-committees in place in relation to audit, risk control, cultural advice etc. He also said that detailed assurance and accountability arrangements will be built in to Service Level Agreements and there will be external monitoring and evaluation with an open and transparent corporate cultural underpinning the programme.

In reply to Cllr. Cronnelly, Mr. O’Donnell said that the Team would be guided by the Members in relation to electoral area interaction.

Cllr. Roche said that the level of community engagement in relation to the 1916 Centenary Commemorations was a very positive indicator of the willingness of people to engage with the Council in organising and participating in events. He said this enthusiasm could be harnessed and built upon in relation to events to be planned throughout the county around the 2020 programme.

Mr. O’Donnell agreed with Cllr. Roche that there is a great capacity to deliver in the county and he also said that there is a significant bed capacity in hotels and other accommodation. He said that Air BnB accommodation and community hosting will also be utilised. He said that the Team will be careful that events organised will not clash with traditional and sporting events and festivals being held in the city and county.

Cllrs. Hoade, Kearney and G. Finnerty also expressed the view that communities should be invited to engage regarding the 2020 programme and Mr. Ó Donnell replied that the delivery process, which will be inclusive and open to the people, is being shaped at present. He acknowledged that The Gathering initiative and the 1916 Centenary Commemorations were lead by communities and that there are excellent volunteers throughout the county and he assured the Members that communities will be very much key to the success of the

17

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

programme of events being organised. He said that it is intended that the 2020 programme activity will enhance and complement existing festivals, events and programmes around the county on a collaborative basis and its audience development strategy aims to maximise attendance, participation and public engagement. In reply, Ms. Gaughan Reddan noted that further community information events would be rolled out in the near future.

In reply to Cllr. N. Byrne, Mr. O’Donnell said that the legacy of the 2020 programme will be people and new opportunities, including European opportunities and not necessarily new infrastructure.

The Chief Executive extended his thanks and congratulations to the entire 2020 Team on the success of the Bid. He said that the programme was very significant and that funding would be challenging. However, he said that the overall budget breakdown for the project was very well thought out. He said that Galway Co. Council indicated that its funding input would be based on benefits to the County.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S BUSINESS & CORRESPONDENCE 2943

The following items of correspondence, which were circulated at the Meeting, were noted:  Letter dated 4th November 2016, notifying the Council that a Notice of Motion was passed by Castleblayney Municipal District calling on the Taoiseach to give reasons why he will not appoint a Minister for Brexit as a result of the Referendum in the U.K. to leave the European Union.  Letter dated 9th December 2016 from the Office of the President acknowledging letter dated 4th October 2016 from A/D.O.S. Corporate Services & Housing.  Letter dated 30th December 2016 from Archbishop Charles J. Brown, Apostolic Nuncio, acknowledging the kind invitation made by Galway County Council to His Holiness Pope Francis to visit County Galway and stating that a formal and official announcement by the Holy See that Pope Francis will visit Ireland in 2018 has not yet been made and also stating that should a visit by the Holy Father to Ireland take place, it is likely to be very limited with regard to its duration and itinerary.  Letter dated 3rd January 2017 from Waterford City and County Council detailing a Motion adopted by the Council calling on the Taoiseach to implement the recommendations of the Post Office Business Development Group and the new model of Community Banking as advocated in the Programme for Government to facilitate the retention and growth of post offices in rural Ireland.  Letter dated 19th December 2016 from Tipperary County Council detailing a Motion passed by the Council asking the Council to write to An Taoiseach requesting that Councillors are represented on the All Island Civic Forum on Brexit, for example, by their representative Bodies, LAMA and AILG.

18

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

 Letter dated 19th December 2016 from Tipperary County Council detailing a Motion passed by the Council calling on every Council to support their call for both increased awareness and increased funding for services in the areas of both Dyspraxia and Dyslexia.  Letter dated 19th December 2016 from Tipperary County Council detailing a Motion passed by the Council calling on the Government to immediately establish a new Agency to acquire and manage all domestic housing mortgage arrears accounts (plus two years in arrears) from the existing lending agencies within the state.  Letter dated 6th January 2017 from Ms. Catherine Connolly T.D., welcoming Galway County Council’s Motion rejecting the amalgamation of Galway County and City Local Authorities.  Letter dated 10th January 2017 from Clare County Council to Deputy Michael Creed, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine detailing a Motion passed by the Members of Clare County Council requesting the Minister to introduce a financial aid compensation package for the grain sector due to the huge financial losses incurred during the weather of the 2016 harvest.  Letter dated 19th January 2017 from the Office of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, acknowledging the Council’s correspondence concerning cereal grain farmers in the West of Ireland, and indicating that a further reply would issue shortly.  Letter dated 23rd January 2017 from South Dublin County Council detailing a Motion passed by the Council calling on both the Minister for Justice and the Minister for Foreign Affairs calling on them to have legislation urgently updated so that the status of asylum seekers/refugees can be decided in the shortest possible time, and that they be allowed to seek and take up employment on a permit basis while their status is being considered.  Letter dated 23rd January 2017 from South Dublin County Council detailing a Motion passed by the Council calling on the Minister for Transport to regulate use of bus lanes by permitting vehicles that display the standard “disability parking permit” to use the bus lanes at all times.  Letter dated 20th January 2017 from Tipperary County Council detailing a Motion passed by the Council requesting the Department of Planning, Housing, Community and Local Government to amend/increase the planning exemptions for solar photovoltaic energy production for residential and non-residential buildings for generation on roofs and small ground mounted arrays where a large proportion of the renewable energy generated is consumed on the premises.  Letter dated 20th January 2017 from Deputy Seán Canney, Minister of State for OPW and Flood Relief, to the County Secretary, indicating that he is on record during his time as Galway County Councillor of being in favour of amalgamation of both local authorities.

19

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

 Letter dated 23rd January 2017 from the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government acknowledging the Council’s letter regarding Motion passed by the Council in relation to Planning legislation and indicating that a further letter will issue as soon as possible.  Notice dated 27th January 2017 to each Member of the Council from the Ethics Registrar regarding submission of Annual Declaration by the Members.

CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS 2944

Cllr. D. Connolly referred to the issue of speed limits and asked if a traffic management plan would be necessary in order to change a speed limit in any area or if there is a quicker means of changing a speed limit. Mr. Timmins replied that a National Speed Limit Review will be brought to the Municipal District Meetings in the coming months for discussion. Cllrs. Canning, Thomas and Roche asked if it was too late to make submissions for speed limit reduction at local national schools and Mr. Timmins replied that submissions regarding non- national roads can be made through the local Municipal District offices. Cllrs. Killilea, Roche, J. Byrne, Hoade and B. Connelly referred to emails which the Councillors had received from a resident of Kilconly, Tuam in relation to the Galway International Rally which takes place annually on the first weekend in February. In reply to queries from the Members, Mr. Timmins said that an application was received by the Council for a temporary road closure licence for the locations in question and that the Council had given this application serious consideration and took the decision to sign the order for the temporary road closure. He said that the applicants had complied with all the procedures relating to temporary road closure licences and he said there are very strict conditions attached to the licence, in particular in relation to insurance issues. Cllr. Maher said he had made a previous proposal that Fáilte Ireland extend the Burren Loop of the Wild Atlantic Way from to include , Loughrea, Kilchreest and on to Gort, adding 39km to the 140km route which would represent less than 40 minutes travel time. He said that this would provide an opportunity to bring business into these areas of South Galway. He asked that the Council contact Fáilte Ireland to find out if they are favourable to this proposal. Cllr. Thomas referred to the computerisation of primary school attendances roll books which is intended to be introduced by the Department of Education. He said that when applying for planning permission to construct a house, particularly in Conamara, the planning authority requires the applicant to prove that they have intrinsic links to the area and a copy of the roll book of the school which the applicant attended is often a necessary part of the overall planning application for these areas. However, Cllr. Thomas has been informed that once

20

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

the current roll books are exhausted, they will not be replaced and attendances will be computerised instead and these computer records will only be held for a period of 10 years. Cllr. Thomas wished to note that this would have implications for people who were noted on the ‘roll’ in environmentally sensitive areas of the County if, in later years, they seek planning permission to build a house. NOTICES OF MOTION NOTICE OF MOTION NO. 21 – CLLR. S. CUNNIFFE 2945

Cllr. Cunniffe referred to his Notice of Motion No. 21 on the Agenda and PROPOSED “That Galway County Council approves the carrying out of a Feasibility Study on the establishment of a Greenway as a Complimentary Use of the disused railway alignment between Athenry, Ballyglunin, Tuam, Kilconly, Milltown and the Northern Galway County Border”. Cllr. Killilea said that he had made this proposal previously with a view to determining if a Greenway at this location would bring economic benefits to the local area and in order to explore the complications which might be involved. He SECONDED Cllr. Cunniffe’s proposal.

Cllr. B. Connelly said that while he supported the concept of Greenways, he believed that spending money on carrying out a feasibility study for a Greenway on the routes indicated by Cllr. Cunniffe would be futile as a Greenway is already being proposed on an alternative route in area, which he understands has the broad agreement of the Irish Farmers Association (IFA).

The Cathaoirleach, expressed his opposition to the proposal as he felt that Railways and Greenways adjacent to one another are not compatible.

Cllrs. Feeney and Kearney also expressed their opposition to the proposal stating that trains carrying freight would be a more viable option and would sustain business and that funding should be directed at other local services.

Cllrs. Roche and K. McHugh supported Cllr. Cunniffe’s proposal stating that a study would establish if the Greenway would bring economic advantages along the route. However, Cllr. Roche said that funding should be sought from central government to cover the cost of the study rather than the Council paying for it.

Cllr. Killilea wished to record that it was never his intention that the Council would pay for this feasibility study and he said that the late Mr. Liam Gavin, R.I.P., Director of Service with Galway County Council, said at a previous Meeting of Tuam Municipal District that Departmental funding could be applied for in this regard.

Cllr. Maher asked for the Chief Executive’s comments regarding the proposal and Mr. Kelly replied that the motion only seeks approval and the assumption would be that if the proposal as it stands was approved, it would mean that the Council would have to fund the feasibility study. He also said that as it was evident that, not all of the Members favoured the establishment of a Greenway along the route, detailed in Cllr. Cunniffe’s proposal and this presented its own difficulties. He said that the Executive would be reluctant to spend money 21

Minutes of January Monthly Meeting held on 30th January 2017

on a proposal which does not have agreement and he also said that funding for the feasibility study is not allowed for in the agreed Budget 2017.

Cllr. Cunniffe said that other funding streams could be explored, such as Galway Rural Development or the Department of Housing, Planning, Community & Local Government.

Following further discussion in relation to the proposal, the County Secretary clarified that an amendment of the Motion could be taken with the agreement of the majority of the Members present. Furthermore if a new motion was introduced, subject to the agreement of the majority of the Members present taking the motion, it would be necessary for the passing of the motion that not less than 19 Members would vote in favour of the Motion.

Further to discussion, Cllr. Cunniffe then PROPOSED to withdraw the proposal stating that it would be submitted for the February 2017 Monthly Meeting of the Council for discussion. This proposal was SECONDED by Cllr. Killilea, and AGREED.

NOTICE OF MOTION NO. 22 – CLLR. M. KINANE 2946 The Cathaoirleach stated that Cllr. Kinane had submitted a Notice of Motion for inclusion on the Agenda for today’s Meeting within the required timeframe and therefore it would be taken. Ms. Dolan read out Cllr. Kinane’s Notice of Motion as follows “I wish to propose that Galway County Council write to Irish Rail and Bus Éireann to strongly object to any downgrading of bus or rail services that will affect any town or village in County Galway. I wish also to propose that Galway County Council contact all fellow 30 local authorities asking that they submit similar letter. I believe that all rural towns and villages need serious resuscitation not their oxygen supply switched off.”

Cllr. Kinane’s PROPOSAL was SECONDED by Cllr. Maher, and AGREED.

CHRIOCHNAIGH AN CRUINNIÚ ANSIN

22