Comhairle Chontae Laoise Laois County Council
Annual Report 2005 Ábhar 1
Chathaoirleach’s Statement 2
County Manager’s Foreword 3
Mission Statement 4
Corporate Affairs, Human Resources, Information & Communication Technology 8
Housing, Social and Cultural Policy 14
Economic Development & County Promotion Policy 23
Environment & Water Services Policy 25
Planning and Transportation Policy 32
Laois County Development Board 37
Financial Management 40
Portlaoise Town Council 41
Mountmellick Town Council 42
Other Activities 43
Useful Directory 44 2 Annual Report 2005
Cathaoirleach’s Statement
I am pleased as Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council to introduce the Annual Report detailing the activities of the Council during 2005.
The report reflects the ongoing work programme of the Council and shows considerable progress is being made in all facets of our activities.
Our Corporate Plan covering the period to 2009 is in place and is the framework for future action. The new County Development Plan was at an advanced stage at year end and will guide the future development of our County at a time of unprecedented growth and change.
The development of a 250 acre site at the Portlaoise Interchange in Togher seeks to exploit our strategic location in the country. The M7/M8 Motorway Project was progressed to tender stage as was the Portlaoise Main Drainage Scheme.
On the housing side, almost 200 houses were built or purchased in 2005. A four year Traveller Accommodation Programme was adopted.
Once again Laois is to the fore in its support for the Arts, Sports and Leisure in the County. Massive improvement and refurbishment works to Portlaoise and Portarlington Swimming Pools were brought to tender stage in 2005. Indeed as may be seen in the report all sections of the Council played an important role in the provision of services to our customers.
I am very grateful to the Members of the Council for their help during the year and whose co-operation and support made my job easier to do. I sympathise with the family of our late colleague on the Council, Michael Turley who sadly passed away in 2005.
I extend my thanks also to the Management and every member of staff for their loyalty and commitment both to me and the people of Laois, whom we all serve, in the delivery of a quality service.
I commend this report as an excellent overview of the valuable work done by the Council in 2005.
Larry Kavanagh Cathaoirleach Annual Report 2005 3
County Manager’s Foreword
It gives me great pleasure as County Manager to welcome the publication of the Laois County Council Annual Report for the year ending 31st December 2005. The publication of the Annual Report provides an opportunity to review the performance of the Council and the quality of services provided by it in the previous twelve months. The report also records the key achievements in relation to the provision of infrastructure. It provides an opportunity to publicise the various activities engaged in by the Council in the period covered by the report.
Since taking up my appointment as County Manager in February of 2005, I have had an opportunity to work closely with the Elected Representatives and the Employees of the Council. I am satisfied that all parties concerned are entirely committed and focused on ensuring ongoing improvements in the delivery of the Council’s services and the development of the County to its maximum potential.
At present a period of sustained and rapid growth is being experienced here in County Laois. There is an increasing demand for the provision of major infrastructure projects including the expansion of water and sewerage networks and the construction of roads that will service new housing developments. In addition to this the Council is currently engaged in the delivery of social infrastructure projects including libraries, swimming pools and playgrounds.
The Council is ensuring the economic development of the County and in this regard is committed to developing enterprise centres at a number of locations throughout the County. The Council is also playing a role in the development of a major transport and logistics park at the Togher Interchange on the outskirts of Portlaoise. Presently there are a number of major retail developments under construction in the County and it is my hope that when they commence operation there will be a reduction in the economic leakage that is currently taking place to the detriment of County Laois.
The objectives contained in the Council's Corporate Plan are being delivered and the Elected Council has expressed its satisfaction with the rate of progress that is being made in that regard. Regular updates are presented to the Council which set out the status of each of the capital projects which are being undertaken.
In 2005 the Council was faced with many challenges and I am glad to say that it has been successful in meeting those challenges. During 2005 an immense amount of time and resources was targeted at finalising the County Development Plan which covers the period 2006 to 2012. Work on the introduction of a Performance Management and Development System was also commenced in 2005 and it is intended that this system will be fully operational throughout the organisation before the end of 2006.
I look forward to working with the Council's Employees, the Elected Council, other agencies and the community sector in facilitating the ongoing improvement of the living environment in County Laois.
Peter Carey County Manager 4 Annual Report 2005
Mission Statement
"We will provide leadership, develop, promote, protect and regulate our County and deliver quality public services so as to enhance the quality of life for the community."
Mandate
Laois County Council is the Primary Democratically Elected Authority in County Laois.
Laois County Council provides an extensive and diverse range of services which impact upon the County's economic, social, environmental, infrastructural, tourism, industrial and cultural activities. These services include the provision and maintenance of houses, the provision and maintenance of roads, the provision and maintenance of water supplies and sewerage schemes, planning and development services, waste management, environmental protection, recreational activities, libraries, cultural and community development including recreation and sport.
The Council is serviced by a large workforce, including the County Manager, professional, technical, legal, administrative, financial and outdoor employees and contractors.
Council Membership and Meetings
Laois County Council consists of 25 Elected Members - four members each from Mountmellick, Emo and Luggacurren Electoral Areas, six members from the Portlaoise Electoral Area and seven members from the Borris-in-Ossory Electoral Area. Council Meetings in 2005 were usually held on the last Monday of each month in the Council Chamber at Áras an Chontae. There was no meeting in August.
Corporate Policy Group (C.P.G.)
The Corporate Policy Group is designed to enhance the democratic mandate and policy making role of the elected members.The C.P.G. is supported by the County Manager and comprises the Cathaoirleach of the Council and the four Chairs of the Strategic Policy Committees. The main function of the C.P.G. is to co-ordinate the work of the different S.P.C.'s and provide a forum where policy decisions affecting the whole Council are agreed for submission to the full Council for decision. The C.P.G. met on 12 occasions in 2005. Annual Report 2005 5 Laois County Council Members
. : Mountmellick Electoral Area : .
David Michael Paddy Seamus Goodwin Moloney Bracken McDonald MCC MCC MCC MCC
Cluain na Slí • • Cúil an tSúdaire Móinteach Mlilic Ros Fhionnghlaise • • Baile Briotas • Móinteach Mílic • Ioma Ioma
• Port Laoise Baile an Bhiocáire • Maighean Rátha • • PORT LAOISE An tSráidbhaile • Camros
Baile an Chaisleáin • Baile Átha an Róine • Tigh Mochua • An Paidhc • • Buiríos Mór Osraí Baile Uí Laigheanáin • Mainistir Laoise • Buiríos Mór Osraí Log an Churraigh
Baile Cholla • Baile na Coile • Killeshil • Eiréil • Domhnach Mor • • Ráth Domhnaigh • Crochta Ard Darú • Craiguecullen • • Cúlchoill 6 Annual Report 2005 Laois County Council Members
. : Emo Electoral Area : .
James Paul Raymond John D. Deegan Mitchell Cribbin Turley MCC MCC . : Borris-In-Ossory Electoral Area : . MCC MCC
Bill Brendan John John Joe Delaney Phelan Bonham Fennelly MCC MCC MCC MCC
Michael Larry Marty Lalor Kavanagh Phelan MCC MCC MCC
. : Luggacurren Electoral Area : .
Dick James John Michael Miller Daly Moran Rice MCC MCC MCC MCC . : Portlaoise Electoral Area : .
Mary Jerry William Catherine Brian Tom Sweeney Lodge Aird Fitzgerald Stanley Jacob MCC MCC MCC MCC MCC MCC Annual Report 2005 7
The Late Councillor Michael Turley
Cathaoirleach Cllr. William Aird and the late Cllr. Michael Turley on the day of his election as Leas-Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council.
The Members, Management and Staff of Laois County Council were saddened by the unexpected death of Councillor Michael Turley in January 2005.
He was first elected to the Council in 1999 and successfully defended his seat in 2004.
He was Leas-Cathaoirleach of the Council at the time of his death.
Michael had also previously worked as a Rate Collector with the Council for many years.
He was very popular with his fellow Councillors and the Staff and he represented the people of his native Vicarstown and the Emo Electoral Area with great distinction.
May he rest in peace. 8 Annual Report 2005
Higher Education Grants Corporate Affairs, Human Resources, Laois County Council awards Higher Education Grants under the Local Information & Communications Technology Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Act 1968-1992. Director of Services Louis Brennan To be eligible for a grant under the Senior Executive Officer Gerry Gillen Scheme, a candidate must satisfy the Corporate Affairs requirements as laid out in the Scheme. Senior Executive Officer Don Culliton Human Resources The Scheme is advertised annually and Head of Information Systems Christy Crawford the closing date for receipt of completed applications is 31st August of each year.
Corporate Affairs Details of the Scheme and application forms are usually available in July from the Higher Education Grants Section or Corporate Plan 2004 – 2009 on our Website at www.laois.ie/heg. The present Corporate Plan covers the period 2004 to 2009. The Council continues to pursue the detailed strategies for the achievement of the objectives listed in the plan. An annual progress report Under the 2005 grants Scheme, Laois will be submitted to the Members in due course. County Council awarded 150 new grants and 285 grants were renewed.
Customer Charter The increase was due to increases in Laois County Council introduced a Customer Charter in May 2005 which sets out the way in which the eligible income limits. The maximum the Council endeavours to deal with its customers. maintenance grant available was €3,020 and Registration fee was increased to The document is on display in all public Council offices and on our website at www.laois.ie €775. The total amount paid out in 2005 Presentation by amounted to €1,863,280.66. Cllr. Larry Kavanagh, Cathoirleach The Charter includes a Customer Complaints Procedure which may be availed of by any person not to Mr. Enda Kenny, T.D. Leader of Fine Gael. satisfied with the quality of service received.
Highlights • 25th Febuary 2005 - Reception in celebration of a Century of Camogie.
• 8th March 2005 - Reception in honour of the St. Fergal's - Borromaum Salzburg Exchange Programme involving students from St. Fergal's College, Rathdowney and from Salzburg, Austria.
• 27th April 2005 - Reception in honour of the medal winners at the 2004 Community Games Finals in Mosney.
• 19th May 2005 - Civic Reception in honour of the 50th Anniversary of the Irish Farmers Association.
• 22nd June 2005 - Presentation to Members of Portlaoise U/12 Rugby Team on the occasion of their winning the Walsh Cup at the Aberystwyth International Rugby Festival in Wales.
• 11th July 2005 - Reception in honour of The Tasmanian Women in Agriculture Group who visited Laois in July 2005 during their stay in Ireland.
• 13th September 2005 - Reception for the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party on the occasion of their Special Meeting in Portlaoise.
• 30th September 2005 - Reception in recognition of the 10th Anniversary of the Portlaoise Citizens Information Centre.
Guests at a Civic Reception in honour of the 50th anniversary of the Irish Farmers Association Annual Report 2005 9
Partnership Long Service Awards The following were members of the Workplace Partnership Committee during 2005: Long Service Awards were presented to 34 employees on 1st December, 2005.
Management Nominees Union Nominees Gerry Maher John Culleton (Joint Chair) (Joint Chair) Declan Byrne Michael O'Loughlin Denise Rainey Bill Devoy Ian McCormack Kieran Kehoe Gerry Gibson Ciaran Brennan
Facilitator: Josephine Kavanagh
The following employees resigned from the Committee during 2005: Paddy Dowling, SIPTU, Kieran Kehoe, SIPTU LAPO, Ciaran Brennan, IMPACT and the Partnership Committee would like to acknowledge and thank them for their contribution to the work of the Committee. Recipients of Long Service Awards - 30 years service Activities 2005 Working Groups were established to examine Overtime levels, Mobile phone and Area welfare Area Partnership Activities 2005 facilties Area Partnership Committees were established in the Central, Eastern and Western Areas. Each committee comprises of 3 Union and 3 Management Representatives.
P.M.D.S. Some of the items discussed to-date include: Health & Safety/Welfare Facilities; Training; Protective A presentation was made to the Partnership Committee by the Co-ordinator in March regarding the Clothing; Flexible working for Office & General Staff; Patching Unit/Equipment; Winter Working; implementation of PMDS. The Partnership Facilitator is a member of the Steering Committee. Review of Depot Facilities; Work Practices/Use of Contractors; Overtime; Area Office Accommodation; Use of own vehicles; Family Friendly Working Policies; Employee Recognition Handling Significant Change Scheme The above document was circulated to the Committee at the May Meeting and it was agreed to meet with the Management Team, Union Officials and Joint Chairs to discuss the proposals for the way forward for Partnership as contained in this document. PANG PANG continued their work in 2005 and once again ran a very successful programme of events which Policy Documents included Health Focus Day and the Golf Outing in Killenard. Other events that PANG sponsored included the participation of a team from the Eastern Area in a bowling tournament in Roll 'n' Bowl. The following Workplace Policies were agreed by the Partnership Committee :-
• Draft Absenteeism Management Policy Return to Learning • Draft Employee Mobility Policy This commenced in May 2005 and will be completed in January 2006. 9 participants are on this • Equality and Diversity Management Policy and Management Procedures course, which is held every Wednesday evening from 6.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. • Cultural Diversity-Members of the Traveller Community Employee Booklet • Rest Period and Breaks Policy Freedom of Information (F.O.I.) The Freedom of Information Act 1997 has applied to Local Authorities since 21st October, 1998. The Workplace Review following show the level of activity in relation to requests for 2005: The Implementation Team presented their recommendations to the Partnership Committee at their June Meeting which were referred to the Management Team for implementation. Applications received/processed in 2005 Applications on hands at 31/12/2004 3 Applications received during 2005 19 Funding Decisions taken during 2005 17 The following funding was agreed for 2005 projects: Applications on hands at 31/12/2005 5 Nature of Information Sought • Standard Hand Book • Staff Integration Day Personal (to applicant) Nil • Long Service Awards • Equality Awareness Non-personal 19 • Irish Language • Media Skills Appeals • Customer Survey • Mobile Units Appeals to Information Commissioner Nil • Return to Learning Appeal to High Court Nil Source of Requests Greening Committee Journalists Nil In 2005, the Greening Committee continued their work of encouraging employees to reduce, reuse Business Nil and recycle. A “Laois Clean Up Week” was held in April. Other activities that the Greening Oireachtas Members Nil Committee ran included competition during Energy Awareness Week, overseeing of maintenance of Local Authority Members Nil plants in County Hall and a logo competition. Others/General Public 19 10 Annual Report 2005
Register of Electors 2005/2006
Dáil Constituency Presidential Electors Total Dáil Electors Total Laois - Offaly 49,371 49,371 49,679 49,679
European Parliament Constituency European Electors Total Potential European Electors Total Leinster 49,743 49,743 46 46
Local Electoral Areas Number of Electors Borris-in-Ossory 14,317 Emo 8,215 Luggacurren 8,199 Mountmellick 7,097 Portlaoise 12,272 Total: 50,100
Borough Council or Town Council Local Government Electors Mountmellick Town Council 2,529 Portlaoise Town Council 7,205 Total: 9,734
Postal and Special Voters
Dáil Constituency Gardaí Defence Forces Diplomats Physically Disabled Occupation etc. Special Voters Laois-Offaly 3 134 3 36 0 0 Total 3 134 3 36 0 0
Guests at reception in honour of The Citizens Information Centre Annual Report 2005 11
The Council Members supported and attended the following Conferences in 2005: East Coast & Midlands Tourism Meath 13th January 2005 The Duhallow Conference Cork 20th - 21st January 2005 The Irish Academy Galway 26th -27th January 2005 Clare Tourist Council Clare 28th - 29th January 2005 Antrim Borough Council Cumann Merriman Clare 28th - 30th January 2005 Seminar for Councillors Waterford 3rd - 4th February 2005 A.M.A.I. Spring Seminar 2005 Donegal 11th - 12th February 2005 Colmcille Winter School Donegal 25th - 27th February 2005 1. The 'Rapid' Programme Tipperary 4th - 5th March 2005 2. 'A Life After Politics' International Women's Day Seminar Dublin 8th March 2005 Galway County International Genealogical Conference Galway 19th - 20th March 2005 L.A.M.A. 22nd Annual Conference Cork 31st March - 1st April 2005 ICT Expo Dublin 13th - 14th April 2005 Cork County Council Cork 14th - 15th April 2005 Annual Mayor's Conference Tipperary Peace Convention Tipperary 15th - 17th April 2005 21st Annual Environmental Conference Cork 21st - 22nd April 2005 The Duhallow Conference Cork 21st - 24th April 2005 Optimising the Environment for Enterprise Laois 27th April 2005 Kerry Environmental Conference Kerry 4th - 7th May 2005 Senator Terry Leydon Conferences Louth 11th - 12th May 2005 National Broadband Galway 13th May 2005 European Summit of Regions & Cities Poland 19th - 20th May 2005 Blackwater Valley Tourism Cork 19th - 21st May 2005 Media Skills for Councillors Wicklow 21st May 2005 The Future of Rural Tourism Roscommon 23rd - 25th June 2005 Douglas Hyde Conference Roscommon 16th - 17th July 2005 MacGill Summer School Donegal 17th - 22nd July 2005 The 18th John Hewitt Summer School Tyrone 25th - 29th July 2005 William Carleton Summer School Tyrone 1st - 5th August 2005 The Parnell Summer School Wicklow 14th - 19th August 2005 Merriman Summer School Clare 20th - 27th August 2005 17th Autumn Fair Dublin 28th - 31st August 2005 IRDA Conference Clare 31st August - 1st September 2005 Rural Housing - A Rural Right FETAC Cork 6th - 8th September 2005 Cork Adult Education Cityscape Conference London 20th - 21st September 2005 Greystones Town Council Wicklow 30th September - 2nd October 2005 Mental Illness London 7th October 2005 Inland Waterways Lurgan 13th October 2005 Association of Ireland European Councillors Berlin 12th - 14th October 2005 Les Rencontres Cork 13th - 16th October 2005 North West European Conference Cork 19th October 2005 Stone Wall Workshop Galway 21st - 22nd October 2005 Effectively Tackling Hate Crime Belfast 27th October 2005 Councillor Training Seminar Tipperary 28th - 29th October 2005 Education & Local Government Cork County Council Seminar Cork 3rd November 2005 L.A.M.A. Donegal 4th - 5th November 2005 The Ceifin Conference Clare 8th - 9th November 2005 Community Safety Conference Louth 10th - 12th November 2005 N.I.S.E. Fermanagh 15th - 16th November 2005 Clare Tourism Clare 25th - 26th November 2005 The Local Government Budget Wexford 10th December 2005 12 Annual Report 2005
Human Resources Excellence Through People In recognition of the high Recruitment Statistics standards in place in Laois A total of 511 people were employed by Laois County Council at 31st December 2005. County Council in terms of employee development and During 2005 Laois County Council held 53 competitions, in relation to which the following statistics involvement, the Council was have been extracted: successful in securing the “Excellence through People” standard, awarded by FÁS, in Total Applications received 604 September 2005.
Male Female Customer Care – dealing with difficult and aggressive behaviour Applicants 296 308 Equality Successful Applicants 90 119 Laois County Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the introduction of a broad range of policies, practices and procedures which aim to recognise individual contribution and Permanent Appointments/ performance, develop each individual's capability and give everyone an equal opportunity to use Promotions 2005: Male Female his/her talent and realise his/her potential. An Equality Action Team, representative of management and employee interests, is in place to Appointments 16 15 examine equality issues, monitor progress and ensure achievement of equality objectives. Promotions 13 12 Service Indicators Work Life Balance Initiatives At year-end 8 employees were availing of the Career Break Scheme, 22 employees were availing of 2004 2005 the job/work sharing scheme, 14 employees availed of the Parental Leave Scheme and 8 employees availed of Term Time. Expenditure on training and development as a percentage of total payroll costs in Industrial Relations 2005. The out-turn is 4.4% which exceeds 3.33% 4.43% Laois County Council continues to be characterised by good industrial relations. the 3% national performance indicators.
No days were lost due to industrial action in 2005. The working days lost to certified and Employee Training & Development uncertified illness are as follows: Laois County Council delivered a comprehensive training programme in 2005 based on the Training Needs Analysis carried out. • CERTIFIED 3.57% 3.47% Expenditure on training courses was approximately €305,000. • UNCERTIFIED 0.31% 0.5% Training Courses provided in 2005 included:
Equality & Management Diversity Polaris Training Safepass Kieran Devery Absenteeism Management Expert Witness La Touche Bond Salon Signing, Lighting & Guarding Roscrea RTC Policy Laois County Council implemented its Health & Safety in Waste OHSS Absenteeism Management Policy in 2005. Management This policy will assist with the management of Health & Safety Legislation Training SQT absenteeism throughout the organisation. Supervisory Management Training Des Doyle Associates
Some 28 employees benefited from assistance under the Staff Education Scheme, pursuing 3rd Level Courses of education, relevant to their work with the Council.
Employees also attended Conferences and Seminars related to their area of work. Paddy and Pattie Ging on the occassion of Paddy’s retirement as Overseer from Laois County Conucil. Annual Report 2005 13
Software Development & Internet / Intranet Information & Communications Technology Throughout 2005 the Information Technology Department continued to focus on the provision of services and information using web-based technologies. Enhancement to existing services has led to Department an increase in the number of visitors to the Council's web site, which for 2005 was an average of 7,500 unique visits per month and over 200,000 page views. A major achievement was the roll out of The year 2005 saw the completion of some projects and advances being made in others in the ICT a new content management system for http://www.laois.ie. The key goals of this system were to Section. improve site design and accessibility and service areas are now fully responsible for the update and maintenance of their own areas on the site. Geographic Information Systems GIS has now established itself as a core technology of the organisation. More than 80% of all In the past year additional online payment facilities have been added to our online payments portal - information used by local authorities is geographically related. http://www.laois.ie/payonline including Landfill Key Fobs, buy a composter and pay fire charges and litter fines. More online payment services will be added in the coming year. The Planning Department in Laois County Council is now digitising all planning applications received which are available online on our www.laois.ie website. 2005 has seen the introduction of a litter fines system for the Environment section along with the analysis phase for an Environmental Complaints System. A Planning Validation System and a Percolation Test System have been developed for the Planning section. The scanned planning files for the last 6 years can be examined on line and also the aerial photography of the application. The website was also redesigned to make it easier for people to find information and to make our site fully accessible for people of all abilities.
Further development with the corporate intranet was completed.
Network Administration o Installed, Configured and Commissioned 12 servers and a SAN (Storage Area Network) for existing and new systems.
o Provided operational support and maintenance for critical Council systems such as Housing, Planning Payroll, Financial System, Rents, Rates, Collections, etc.
Each Elected Member was provided with a Laptop with full email and internet facilities to enable them to carry out their functions more efficiently.
Storage Area Network: Dell Computers were awarded the contracts for supply and installation of a Storage Area Network and this work was completed in mid 2005. Wireless Networking facilities were The G.I.S. section was involved with Laois Civil Defence in providing mapping facilities on their new installed in the Co. Managers Conference Room in early 2005. Wireless enabled laptop Operational Support Unit. This facility allows easy access to maps for search and recovery purposes computer networking facilities were available to Elected Members and Senior Management Team in Laois and has proved to be a very useful tool. from early 2005 onward.
Laois County Council G.I.S. Section in collaboration with IMGS has developed a very simple The Network Administration Section were involved in the provision of new data and telephony interactive application for displaying the County Development Plan maps at facilities when the Stradbally Area and Central Area Offices were relocated in 2005. New Audio Visual www.laoisgis.ie/laoisdevplan/welcome.aspx. This facility allows the user to view the development plan equipment was installed in the Council Chamber in 2005. Broadband Internet access was extended to maps quickly and easily for their area. Portarlington and Mountmellick Branch Libraries. The telephone system in Áras an Chontae as well as I.T. facilities were upgraded in 2005 at reception. Portarlington Branch Library was computerised during the year. Data Backup and Security measures were strengthened in the organisation in 2005.
I.C.T. Staff Members 14 Annual Report 2005
In addition, 30 houses were Housing, Social and Cultural Policy purchased on the open market for Summary Of Programme allocation to persons on the waiting list No. under construction at 01/01/05 78 Chair: Brian Stanley MCC and 5 new demountable dwellings No. commenced in 2005 278 were also provided. The total No. completed in 2005 210 Members: Sectoral: expenditure on the Capital No. in progress at 31/12/05 202 William Aird, M.C.C. Mary Wheatley Programme in 2005 was €28,391,057. Larry Kavanagh, M.C.C. Pat Culleton Paddy Bracken, M.C.C. John Grace The above summary includes extensions to local authority dwellings and improvement works in lieu to Seamus McDonald, M.C.C. Mick Dowling private houses. Catherine Fitzgerald, M.C.C. Marc Connolly, T.C.
Director Of Services: Declan Byrne Planned Maintenance Senior Executive Officer: A.M. Delaney Programme Senior Executive Engineer: P.J. Dempsey Phase III of the Planned Maintenance Senior Social Worker: Fionnuala Daly Programme commenced in September County Librarian: Gerry Maher 2004 and was completed in December 2005.
Report on Strategic Policy Committee A total of 121 houses have been During 2005 the Housing, Social and Cultural S.P.C. met in March, June, September and December. upgraded under this phase at a cost of At these meetings, reports and recommendations were received and considered from the Arts €400,000. Work is currently underway Section, Heritage Section, Sports & Leisure Section and the Library Section. The meeting held in in preparing a programme for Phase June considered, among other things, a policy on Anti-Social Behaviour. The September meeting Churchfield Heights, Castletown IV. considered the Draft Housing Strategy 2006-2011. Both the Anti-Social Behaviour Policy and the Housing Strategy were agreed by the Members. The S.P.C. is working satisfactorily. Central Heating Initiative In 2004, a new central heating programme was made available by The Department of the Housing Services Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The funding available is €5,600 per dwelling or 80% Laois County Council's key objective is to maximise the availability of accommodation to meet of expenditure, whichever is the lesser. different categories of need and to promote the full range of housing options. In 2005, a total of 116 houses have been provided with central heating. The total cost of the 2005 Highlights during 2005 programme was €785,719 of which €576,700 was recouped from The Department of the • The appointment of a Tenant Liaison Officer Environment, Heritage and Local Government. • The appointment of a mobile caretaker for aged and disabled tenants • The completion of the Housing Needs Assessment in March 2005 • The Adoption of the Four Year Traveller Accommodation Programme for the period Maintenance of Local Authority Stock At 31st December, 2005 the Council had 1,519 dwellings in its rented stock. Out of this, a total of 68 1st January 2005 to 31st December 2008 in April 2005. vacant dwellings were referred to the Maintenance Section for repair prior to re-letting during the year. • The Launch of the Tenants' Handbook in April 2005. • Adoption of the Anti-Social Behaviour Policy in June 2005 • The Review of the Council Housing Strategy in September 2005 Turnkey Developments Works are continuing on the turnkey development at Station Road, Portarlington (20 apartments) and on 40 units at Ballycullenbeg, Mountmellick. It is the Council's intention to avail of turnkey housing Housing Construction & Acquisition developments and the Council regularly advertises to invite proposals from Building Contractors or During the year, 157 houses were completed under this Programme. The breakdown is as follows: Developers for the supply of turnkey housing schemes in Co. Laois. All proposals are considered subject to local requirements. Acragar Mountmellick 32 units Churchfield, Castletown 19 units Land in Council Ownership Mountmellick Road, Portlaoise 8 units The Council has a policy of ensuring that an adequate land bank is in place to cater for the Council's Kilminchy Village, Portlaoise 17 units Housing Programme. In 2005, land was acquired for housing development in the following locations: Retirement Village, Kilminchy 12 units Dublin Road, Portlaoise 12 units • Rathdowney (5 acres) Rural Dwellings 5 units • Bracklone St. Portarlington (0.41 acres) Sleaty Road, Graiguecullen (Pt V) 18 units • Knockmay, Portlaoise (2.5 acres) Fairgreen, Portlaoise (Pt V) 23 units • Doonane, Crettyard (1.8 acres) Ballacollig, Mountmellick (Pt V) 11 units • Durrow (2.24 acres).
Total 157 units Annual Report 2005 15
Part V- Housing Strategy Best Estate Competition Activity under Various Schemes In accordance with Part V of the Housing Strategy, 74 housing units (52 social and 22 affordable) were completed around the County in 2005. 42 units (6 social and 36 affordable) are currently in 2005 Extensions to Local Authority Dwellings: 1st Place: Parnell Crescent, Portlaoise progress. In addition, a number of Agreements are in place for the provision of units in Portlaoise, Commenced 17 2nd Place: Woodview, Stradbally Portarlington, Mountmellick and Abbeyleix. Negotiations are also ongoing, under the Housing Completed 12 A special award went to Riverview Strategy, for the provision of additional units at a number of locations around the County. Improvement Works in Lieu of Local Authority Housing: Apartments, Portlaoise. Commenced 4 Completed 6 A Tenant Liaison Officer was appointed in Voluntary Housing Sector Disabled Persons Grants: The Voluntary Sector continues to play a vital role in assisting to meet the accommodation needs in January 2005. In addition, a mobile Applications Received 246 Laois. In 2005, Mountmellick Voluntary Housing Association started work on 22 units and a Caretaker for the Aged and Disabled took Total No. of Grants Paid 155 Community Centre at Wolfe Tone Street, Mountmellick. up duty in 2005 and has been approved for (Totalling €1,718,982) a further year under the Housing Essential Repairs Grants: Construction is continuing on 64 housing units by Respond! in Balladine, Abbeyleix. The Sisters of Management Initiative. Residents' Applications Received 117 Charity of Jesus & Mary are constructing an 11-bed complex at The Green, Stradbally and this should Associations have increased from 29 in Total No. of Grants Paid 72 be completed in early 2006. 2004 to 46 in 2005. (Totalling €375,154) Tenant Purchase Scheme: Affordable Housing Building Control Applications Received 79 During the year work commenced on the following schemes: There were 263 inspections of buildings to Houses Sold 32 ensure compliance with Building Shared Ownership Loans: • Abbeyleix (Balladine) 20 units Regulations. Our level of monitoring is Applications Received 81 • Durrow (Seandoire) 10 units consistently meeting Department of the Transactions Completed 39 • Portlaoise (Colliers Lane) 50 units Environment Standards. Mortgage Allowance Scheme: • Mountmellick (Ballacollig) 11 units Applications Received 7 • Ballyroan 12 units House Purchase Annuity Loans Advanced 1 • Portlaoise (Fairgreen Pt V) 22 units Home Improvement Loans Advanced: 4 • Portlaoise (Maryborough Crescent Pt V) 4 units • Portlaoise (Power's Court) 1 unit Total 130 units
Affordable Housing Developments completed in 2005 include:
• Borris-In-Ossory (St. Patrick's Terrace) 4 units • Castletown 6 units • Graiguecullen (Pt V) 18 units • Mountmellick (Davitt Road) 32 units • Portarlington (Ballymorris) 2 units • Portlaoise (Maryborough Crescent)(Pt V) 4 units Total 66 units
Housing Rents The Council reviews its Differential Rent Scheme on an annual basis. The latest Scheme was implemented on 15th October 2005. The average weekly rent, under the 2005 Scheme, was €32.50. A total rental income of €2,273,910 was received.
Traveller Accommodation The Four Year Traveller Accommodation Programme 2005-2008 was adopted by the Council in April 2005. Significant progress in relation to the accommodation of the Travelling Community has been made in County Laois with only four families remaining on the roadside. Social & Affordable houses at Willow Grove, Mountmellick Estate Management The year 2005 saw the continued development of the Council's policy on resident participation in Estate Management addressing issues such as, Estate Enhancement, General Maintenance, Traffic Calming Measures and Anti-social behaviour
Pre-tenancy courses and tenant handbooks were provided for all new tenants. An Anti-Social Behaviour Policy was adopted by the elected members in June 2005. 16 Annual Report 2005
Service Indicators
Performance
Performance Indicator 2004 2005
Total number of dwellings in local authority stock including 30 Bays 1428 1519
Percentage of dwellings that are let 96.43% 97.83%
Percentage of dwellings that are empty 3.57% 2.17%
Percentage of empty dwellings subject to major refurbishment schemes 0% 0%
Percentage of empty dwellings unavailable for letting 73.58% 33.33%
Percentage of empty dwellings available for letting 26.42% 66.67%
Average time taken to relet dwellings available for reletting (in weeks) 2.14 5.28 weeks
Number of repairs completed as a percentage of the number of valid requests received 85% 83.18%
Average time taken to inform applicants of local authority’s decision on applications for:- o Shared Ownership Housing Scheme 23 days 4 days o Housing Loans Scheme 15 days 4 days o Local Authority Housing 28 day 5 days
Total no. of traveller families accommodated as a precentage of the targets set in the local Traveller Accomodation Programme 173% 188.89%
Housing Rent Amount collected at year end as a percentage of amount due 82.16% 85% Percentage of Arrears o 4-6 weeks old 28% 3.93% o 6-12 weeks old 20.83% 6.47% o More than 12 weeks old 50.54% 83.71%
Offical opening of Greenview, Mountmelick Rd., Portlaoise Annual Report 2005 17
The Arts Writer in Residence During her six-month residency as Writer in Residence, Jean O'Brien worked with existing and new writers groups, schools, emerging writers, community groups, the prison community and local Laois Youth Theatre organisations involved in and interested in writing. The third Laois Anthology of literature “From Laois Youth theatre which recommenced in Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Rathdowney and Stradbally in Mairgy to the Slieve Blooms” was compiled and it was launched in December 2005. A literary January 2005 enables young people to avail of the very best drama training. “Showcase” a series of evening was held to celebrate Bloomsday. plays devised and produced by the four youth theatre groups was presented in the Dunamaise Arts Centre. Rathdowney presented “Action Packed”. Stradbally presented “Who Stole Scrappy Doo”. Portlaoise presented “For Gods Sake (It's not my Problem)” and Mountmellick presented "The True Artists and Architects in Schools Scheme Story of Peter Pan”. A new youth theatre group will be set up in Mountrath in January 2006. The scheme ran very successfully in 2005 in seven schools in the county including: Dance in Scoil Aonghusa, Stradbally, Sculpture in Stradbally Laois School of Music Boys NS, Ceramics in Another very successful year for Laois School of Music included the following highlights. South NS Abbeyleix, Pottery in Rushall NS and • A piano concert and workshops for Schools with pianist Colm ‘Stride' O'Brien. Clough NS, Art Modelling • A Music Marathon in the Dunamaise Art Centre by over 50 students. in No.2 NS Portarlington • Participation in the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Mountrath. and Architecture in • A Gala End of Year concert by over 60 students in The Dunamaise Arts Centre with guest Ballyfin NS. A wonderful presenter, Mary Kennedy and guest artist Liam Lawton. exhibition of work by the schools from the 2004 The Laois Arts Plan 2006-2011 Scheme was held in the The new Laois Arts Plan 2006-2011 will prioritise the direction of Arts development and set out a Dunamaise Arts Centre vision by which the arts can continue to flourish in Laois. An extensive public consultation took place and a celebratory booklet early in 2005. The Plan will be launched early in 2006. on the project was Laois School of Music published. Artists' Symposium in Emo Court An Artists' symposium was organised in the grounds of Emo Court in Autumn 2005. The symposium Awards & Bursaries was supported by The Arts Council, The OPW, and Laois Leader. Artist Judy Merriman created At a special awards event in Áras an Chontae grants were presented to nineteen groups and six drawings of the inside and outside of Emo Court. Lisa Fingleton compiled a film entitled “My individuals to further their artistic endeavours. The Tyrone Guthrie Centre Bursary was awarded to Favourite Place in the World” and conducted 90 interviews with visitors she met during the artist Stasia Blake and the Scholarship for the Drama League of Ireland Residential Summer School symposium. Artist James Hayes used his thumb print as the basis for his dramatic project, drawing was awarded to Emma O'Grady from Mountrath. onto grid paper and scaling it up and then burning it out onto the grass. Artist Barbara Nealon created a temporary studio which was a tent down near the lake and made daily interventions around the park. James Fraher presented a photographic diary of the three-week symposium capturing the Storytelling Skills Course The Arts Office, the Library Service and Laois VEC held a ten-week storytelling skills FETAC artists at work, the visitors to the symposium and the Outreach Programme with schools as well as accredited course for people interested in volunteering to read to children within the library or some beautiful shots of the scenery in the grounds of Emo Court. A website containing wonderful community setting. A rota of volunteer readers for libraries is being organised for 2006. images of the Symposium can be viewed at www.laoisarts.ie. Over the course of the Symposium many schools visited Emo Court for outreach workshops guided by local artist Patricia Bennett. The symposium ended with a very successful open day that involved art workshops and talks with the Midland Collaborative Creative Writing Project artists and arts facilitators. The Arts Sections and County Development Boards of Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath held a six-month creative writing project for young people from Moate, Mountmellick, Edenderry and Longford. This project was initiated by Laois County Council in association with the Arts Officers and County Development Boards. In Laois the project was carried out by an enthusiastic group of students from Youthreach, Mountmellick, facilitated by Heather Brett. The focus was on creative writing, artwork and photography and a book entitled “ID” was published.
Summer Arts Programme Very successful summer arts workshops took place over the month of July in a number of areas in Laois. The weeklong workshops included pottery, sculpture, drama, kindermusic, creative writing and Art.
Dance Project A ten-week series of dance workshops for young people took place in Birchgrove Community Centre. The workshops culminated in a very successful Free Lunchtime performance in the Dunamaise Arts Centre. The project was in collaboration with Laois Youth Services, the Family Resource Centre, Knockmay and Birchgrove After Schools Project, funded by Laois County Council and People in Artist James Hayes’ thumbprint scaled up and burned into the grass at Need. Emo Court for the Laois Artists’ Symposium 18 Annual Report 2005
Art Exhibitions included: • Children's Lives in Laois” Schools Photographic Exhibition Sport & Leisure • Laois Community Education Project Community Groups Art & Craft exhibition • Exhibition of Paintings by The Whyte Family • Exhibition of Pottery by Sue Ryder Abbeyleix Pottery Play Provision A new playground in Portarlington was officially opened in April 2005. “Pairc Spraoi na hAbhann” • Exhibition of photographs “Different Times” by local photographers Kevin Byrne & Veronica (River Play Park) caters for children 0 to 12 years. “Solas na Greine” the People's Park in Portlaoise Carroll was further developed in 2005 and continues to be used extensively by local families and visitors to • Exhibition Poster competition in partnership with the Lions Club of Ireland Portlaoise. Two further playgrounds are being developed in Abbeyleix and Mountrath with an expected opening in March/April 2006. Funding of €95,000 was granted by the Department of Public Art Environment, Heritage & Local Government towards the provision of playgrounds and mobile The Percent for Art sculpture for the Ballyroan Waste skatepark equipment. Water Improvement Scheme was officially launched at a ceremony in Ballyroan in April. The work entitled “Autumn” is by local sculptor Angela Delaney. The sculpture is made Children's Activity Programme Laois County Council organised and delivered a very successful Easter and Summer activity from limestone and is in the form of a horse chestnut; the programme in 2005 with over 850 children participating. Camp Co Co was run in Ballyroan and fruit bursting open as it reaches its full potential. The work Portlaoise during the Easter holiday period. Our summer camps in Portarlington, Rathdowney, can be viewed at The Green, Ballyroan. Vicarstown, Mountrath, Portlaoise and Ballyroan proved as popular as ever. Parks Tennis Camps were run in Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Portarlington and Abbeyleix. Also Playdays in the Park in both Portarlington and Portlaoise were highly successful with the younger children aged 3 to 5 years. Laois Other activities County Council Sports Section also produced a directory of summer activities for children and parents • Master Classes in Life Drawing & Figure Drawing and over 4,000 copies were circulated to all schools throughout the county. • Book Launches • Music Concerts • Free Lunchtime Concerts Club Development • Dance workshops in Hospitals The Council's club development programme continued in 2005, promoting and supporting new and • Storytelling in Hospitals existing clubs throughout Laois, delivering workshops and seminars and providing assistance to clubs to secure funding through the Sports Capital Grants Programme. Fourteen clubs were successful Ballet Ire Les Sylphides Service Indicators with a total allocation of €771,000 throughout the county.
Performance Indicators Walking Routes Slí na Sláinte walking routes in Portlaoise, Mountmellick and Ballyroan continue to be very popular 2003 2004 2005 with walkers and a further two routes are currently being developed in Emo and Stradbally with an opening planned for March 2006. Work has commenced on the upgrading of the Slieve Bloom Way (1) No. of Art Grants allocated 24 29 26 which includes the development of three sets of looped walks at Glenbarrow, Clonaslee and Monicknew and will be completed by September 2006. (2) Total value of Art Grants allocated 119.10 2341 per 1,000 population Laois Sports Partnership Laois Sports Partnership has completed its fourth very successful year in operation. Gareth Culleton No. of Youth Theatres 3 4 5 was appointed Disability Officer and commenced employment in June 2005. Some notable events during 2005 were The Go for Life Training for Older Adults, Sport For All Leadership Training, Mini Summer Art Workshops 8 8 10 Marathon Fun Run, Safe Cycling Workshops, Disability Swim Teachers Course. Grants were awarded to schools, community groups and clubs under the Sport & Physical Grant Scheme. Drama Workshops 3 2 2
Laois School of Music No. of Students 330 332 279
The Dunamaise Arts Centre The Dunamaise Arts Centre had another very successful year in 2005, with over 25,000 seats sold for nearly 200 performances. Shows included work by the magician Keith Barry; Calypso Theatre Co; comedians Niall Toíbin and Kevin McAleer; Martin McDonagh's masterpiece The Lonesome West; J.B. Keane's The Love Hungry Farmer (with Des Keogh); the veteran actress Anna Manahan in Sisters, and musicians such as Liam Clancy, Paddy Cole, Tommy Fleming and Luka Bloom. Performances by local groups continued to make their mark, particularly those by Open Door Drama, The Portlaoise Pantomine and Portlaoise Musical Societies. The Centre also introduced a new series of performances specially for young families on Sunday mornings which was a great success. A wide range of independent and cultural cinema was shown. In the visual arts, there were many exhibitions Official opening of Portarlington Playground by local and national artists and photographers, together with the ever popular Open Art Competition. Annual Report 2005 19
Performance Indicators 2005
Performance Indicators Description 2005 Indicators Set Indicators Achieved
Numbers of Training 2 Coaching (SAQ) Courses 12 12 Courses Organised 2 Summer Camp Leader Training Courses 4 Sports Development Seminars 4 Code of Ethics courses
Number of Trained Leaders, Coaches Leaders to be trained 100 185 Coaches & Admins. at courses detailed above
Number of participating 6 Camp Co Co - Portarlington, Vicarstown, Portlaoise, Rathdowney, Ballyroan, Mountrath 12 13 communities in Summer 2 Easter Camp Co Co Ballyroan & Portlaoise Camps & other programmes 4 Parks Tennis Programme - Portarlington, Abbeyleix, Mountmellick, Portlaoise 1 Portlaoise Town Park Play Project
Number of children participating Children participated in the programme 800 920 in programme as detailed above
No of clubs/groups assisted with Assistance includes: 35 37 Sports Funding Applications Attendance at Sports Capital Seminar, Site visits, Facilitating Club Development Plans, Completing Application Forms
Play Facilities Provision of 1 Additional Playground in Portarlington – completed & opened in April 2005 1 1 Upgrading of Existing Playground 11
Policy Document Report County Facilities Audit 1 1 County Play Strategy 1 1
Walking Routes Provision of Sli na Slainte Walking Work Routes, Emo & Stradbally ongoing 2 Work on-going Upgrading of Sliabh Bloom Way & Work Development of Looped Walks ongoing 1 “
A group of children enjoying the activities at the Sports Hall Athletics which was run by Laois Sports Partnership and the Sports Section 20 Annual Report 2005
• Esker Survey Service Indicators • Raising Awareness: Radio Soundbites (in association with Offaly and Westmeath Heritage Offices) • “Celebrating Laois Heritage” Conference • Hedgerow Survey (in association with Offaly Heritage Office) Service Indicators 2004 2005 • “Golden Mile of Laois” hedgerow competition (in association with Laois LEADER)
No. of children’s playgrounds per 1,000 poplulation directly provided by LCC .017 .000034 2. Other 2005 Laois Heritage Office Projects These projects were also undertaken in 2005, as a part of the matching funding contributed by Laois No. of children’s playgrounds per 1,000 poplulationfacilitated by LCC 0 0 County Council to implementation of the Heritage Plan.
No. of visitors to LCC facilitated swimmingfacilities per 1,000 population: N/A .19 • Durrow Courthouse Conservation • “Built Heritage of Laois” Poster • “Natural Heritage of Laois” Calendar Swimming Pools • Events to celebrate Centenary of In July 2005 approval was received from John Canon O'Hanlon, renowned the Department of Arts, Sports and author and historian, a native of Tourism to proceed to tender stage for Stradbally. contractors for the refurbishment and • “Pride of Place” Competition, entries extension to Portlaoise and Portarlington from Mountmellick and Rathdowney Swimming Pools. It is anticipated that represented Laois in this prestigious work will commence on these projects in all-Island competition. 2006. • Heritage Appraisal of draft Laois County Development Plan Laois County Council continued to • Slieve Bloom Biodiversity Project, in support the committees of Portlaoise, association with Slieve Bloom Portarlington and Ballinakill pools. It is Association. Speakers at the “Celebrating Laois Heritage” Conference appropriate to acknowledge the work being undertaken by the pool Easter Camp CoCo at Rowl & Bowl committees. 3. Raising Awareness & Promoting Pride An important part of the role of the Heritage Office is to raise awareness of the heritage of Laois, and promote pride in this heritage among all members of the community. Actions undertaken in Laois during 2005 to raise awareness of heritage issues included: Heritage • Dawn Chorus Day: Two dawn walks were organised to celebrate Dawn Chorus Day in May, • Heritage Week: A guide to Heritage Week events in Laois was compiled and distributed by the Heritage Office, Laois Heritage Office • Information & Advice on a range of topics was provided to members of the public, The Laois County Council Heritage Office is staffed by a full-time Heritage Officer. The aim of the • Community Liaison: the Heritage Officer worked with numerous community groups Heritage Office is to collect data, protect and conserve, raise awareness and promote pride and and the County Community Forum to plan projects and provided advice on accessing grant aid enjoyment in the built and natural heritage of County Laois. The Laois Heritage Officer works closely and project support. with the Heritage Forum in implementing the Laois Heritage Plan 2002 - 2006. The membership of the Forum reflects the wide range of groups with an interest in protecting and raising awareness of the 4. Policies Policies produced and implemented by the Heritage Officer in 2005, in association with the Housing, heritage of Laois. Social and Cultural SPC of Laois County Council included:
1. Laois Heritage Plan 2005 • Policy on Laois Museums • Policy & Committee on Projects Placenames in Laois Funding from the Heritage Council was used to implement a range of actions in the Laois Heritage Plan. These policies are now being Full reports on these actions are available at implemented. Copies of the www.laois.ie/heritage. Projects undertaken in 2005 in full policies are available at implementation of the Laois Heritage Plan included the www.laois.ie/heritage. following:
• Habitat Survey • Mills Survey • Memorials Recording Project (in association with Offaly Heritage Office) Prize winners at the Golden Mile of Laois Competition Awards Night Annual Report 2005 21
Library Services Bookfund Laois County Council allocated €171,000 for the purchase of books in 2005, an increase of €11,000 The purpose of the public library is to provide and promote access to information, ideas and on the previous year. The Department of Education and Science contributed €32,259 for the knowledge recorded in books and other forms of media as well as fulfilling a recreational role in the purchase of books for primary schools in the local authority area. community. The library service performs an essential function in a democratic society by enabling people to inform themselves on issues affecting their daily lives. It provides information and materials for people engaged in any form of learning, whether formal or lifelong learning. The library encourages and supports individuals in developing and maintaining the skill of reading. Reading is an essential life skill and the ability to read underpins the acquisition of the other intellectual skills. The library service is administered under the Housing, Social and Cultural S.P.C. of the County Council.
Abbeyleix Tenders were received in December for the development of the Market House at Main Street to a public library. It is expected to begin work on the renovation and refurbishment of the building early in 2006. The library when completed will operate at ground floor level and two mezzanine levels.
Rathdowney During the year the library section acquired the former courthouse and extended the library into the area formerly occupied by the courthouse giving a total library area of 140m2 approx. The entire library has been fully redecorated and carpeted. New shelving and furniture has also been added. The library is now a modern, comfortable library with a good bookstock and three public internet access points. The library system of checking in and out of books is now automated.
Library Automation The library systems in Mountmellick, Rathdowney and Clonaslee were automated in November/December 2005. These library systems will be going live in early 2006. The public will also be able to transact certain services online. Broadband is being availed of where it is available. Winners in “Design a Bookmark” Competition Digitisation The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government provided grant-aid of €13,861 to digitise certain areas of the local studies collection located at the library headquarters at Áras an Comóradh Leabhar Na bPáistí Chontae, Portlaoise. The project lasted six months and the histories and culture of the towns of Comoradh Leabhar na bPáistí took place from 5th to 31st October, 2005. Various events were held at Portlaoise, Portarlington, Abbeyleix and the estate houses of Cosby Hall, Stradbally and Emo Court Portlaoise Library to encourage children to use their local library. Bord na Leabhar Gaeilge gave a were digitised and are now available on the local website. grant of €4,000 to the County Library to purchase books in Irish.
It is the aim of the library to support the use of the Irish language. This money will help improve and increase the range of materials available in Irish throughout the library service.
Midlands Prison Laois County Library in partnership with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform provide advice and expertise in running the library in the Midlands Prison. The county library staff purchase books etc. for the library to support the teaching curriculum and for recreational and leisure reading as well as general information reading. A grant of €5,000 was allocated to the Council for this purpose by the Department of Justice in 2005.
STATISTICS
Library membership 7,352 Items issued 178,501
Portlaoise Library 22 Annual Report 2005
Archives An archives programme is presently being implemented for County Laois in accordance with the Archives Development Plan. Emphasis is being placed on the preservation, storage and listing of the County Council's record material. The County Council’s current record holdings are presently being surveyed preparatory to the development of a Records Retention Policy for the public records of Laois County Council.
Laois County Council has provided dedicated storage for its archive holdings. This storage approaches BS 5454 standards relating to temperature and humidity. Public access to County Council records is presently through the Local Studies section of the County Library service.
New Acquisitions Significant collection of archives relating to County Laois has been acquired. These include: • Very rare Grand Jury Map 1805 of Queens County by cartographer Daniel Cahill • Despard Family Archives relating to lands at Lackacurragh, Boccagh and Finanemore 1777-1862
Preservation Microfilming The preservation microfilming programme of our Board of Guardians Archives has commenced, Winners in “Design a Bookmark” Competition beginning with Abbeyleix Board of Guardians.
Schools and Outreach During heritage week in September, the Archivist delivered a preservation workshop at Portlaoise library entitled “Preservation of Family Papers”. The Archivist has developed a workshop in support of the leaving certificate’s history curriculum entitled “Using and Interpreting Archives and Sources”. The workshop was delivered at Abbeyleix Further Education Centre. This workshop is now available to all secondary schools in the County.
Service Indicators
Library Indicators 2004 2005
Public Opening Hours: - average number of opening hours per week for full-time libraries 35hrs 35hrs - average number of opening hours per week for part-time libraries 9.6hrs 9.7hrs
Number of registered library members as a percentage of the local population 12.7% 12.5%
Number of items issued per head of population for: (a) Books 2.948 2.8 (b) Other items 0.248 0.25
Percentage of libraries that offer Internet access to the public 77% 77%
Number of Internet sessions provided per 1,000 population 45 102.6
Book fund per head of population 2.72 2.90 Annual Report 2005 23
Economic Development & Enterprise Centres Portarlington County Promotion Policy The Portarlington Enterprise Centre opened in November 2005. The Enterprise Centre provides incubator units and office accommodation for 12 start up businesses and is managed by a Board of Chair: James Deegan M.C.C. Directors (10) comprising five nominees from the Portarlington Community Development Association, four nominees from Laois County Council, and one nominee from LEADER. The important role of Members: Sectoral: Laois County Council in giving leadership in harnessing resources, is well demonstrated in this John Bonham, M.C.C. John Finlay project. Martin Phelan, M.C.C. Margaret Ryan Paul Mitchell, M.C.C. Eddie Phelan Tom Jacob, M.C.C. William Moylan Michael Moloney, M.C.C. Brendan Phelan, M.C.C. Rotimi Adebari, T.C.
Director of Services: Louis Brennan Senior Executive Officer: Ian McCormack
Report on Strategic Policy Committee The following policy documents were produced by the Committee and agreed by the Members of Laois County Council in 2005:
• Tourism and County Promotion • Industrial Sites and Enterprise Units • Sustainable Rural Economic Development • National Academy for Languages, Occupational & Citizenship Skills
The following discussion documents were also produced by this Committee in 2005 and referred to the Planning and Transportation Strategic Policy Committee for consideration: • M7/M8 Opportunities Portlaoise • Signposting within the County for Tourism and Promotional Activities. The provision of an Enterprise Centre in Portlaoise was agreed in 2005. There will be a mix of office accommodation and incubator units at this location with an overall size of 20,184 sq. ft. This will be a turnkey development delivered to Laois County Council during 2006.
Economic Development The Council is also committed to progressing the development of an Enterprise Centre at Durrow. Laois County Council is actively involved in, and has a pivotal role to play in the economic development and promotion of the County. The Council is committed to attracting inward investment, fostering a climate of self sustaining development and it is eager to ensure that balanced development takes place throughout the County. The Council continues to participate actively with all Broadband (MAN Networks) local and national development agencies to promote the social and economic development of the Local Authorities have been given a central role in the implementation of Ireland's Broadband County. Strategy with the Metropolitan Area Networks (Installation of fibre networks) providing the essential infrastructure for heavy broadband users, in order to have the services they require. Portlaoise Interchange Portlaoise MAN Project The development of a 250 acre site at Portlaoise Interchange seeks to exploit the Economic The infrastructural works of the above project were completed in 2005. E-Net specialist contractors in Development potential of the key transport corridor which runs through the County. This Portlaoise the field of telecommunications operate, develop, maintain and market the network on behalf of Laois Interchange Project is as a direct result of the National Spatial Strategy which puts Laois and County Council. Portlaoise at a distinct advantage in designating it as a Transport Node and Inland Port. Mountmellick & Portarlington MAN Project A Masterplan was prepared (focused and measured approach to the consideration of this Both projects have been approved by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural development opportunity) and agreed with all interested parties. Resources. Offaly County Council is the lead Authority for projects in this region and both projects will be progressed in 2006. A Services Plan has also been prepared in-house and agreed with all interested parties. An Information Technology Infrastructural Plan for this development is being evaluated at present.
A total of 5 planning applications were lodged in 2005 to include provision of distributor roads, retail warehousing, motorway services building and traincare depot. 24 Annual Report 2005
Community Broadband Tourism The Tourism Strategic Group was set up by Laois County Council with the overall objective of Abbeyleix / Durrow promoting a clear and strong image of Laois. The Tourism Officer works closely with Laois Tourism Wireless broadband facility is now available in both of these towns. Ltd in implementing these strategies, in marketing Laois's excellent strategic location and in creating an awareness of its strong potential as the ultimate conference and activity base. A number of task Portlaoise groups were set up: Significant progress was also made during 2005 in the roll-out of wireless broadband to the following areas in Portlaoise: - Kilminchy, The Hermitage, Ashley Gardens & Forest Park. • The Hotel Task Group looks at co-operative ways of promoting hotels and conference facilities in Laois. • The Golf Group works to promote the County as a Golf destination. They have created packages for marketing at Golf Trade Shows and were integral in planning an International Golf Industrial Sites / Units Challenge which is to be held in 2006. Laois County Council continues to maintain its direct role in facilitating economic development / job • The Activity Group are at the final stages in their preparation of an activity booklet which creation through the ongoing disposal of sites throughout the County. highlights the varied activities in Laois. • The Event/Festival Task Group is involved in the organisation of an event in Laois which will The Council continues to acquire land for industrial units / sites given the County's considerable attract a large number of visitors to the county. potential for further development and capacity for new enterprise. An additional 5.5 acres of land at • The Heritage-Tourism Group work together to promote the heritage attractions in the county. Clonminam Industrial Estate was acquired in 2005 for this purpose. Some of the projects undertaken in 2005 were: • The 'Passport to Laois' booklet was reprinted with new members included. This booklet is Skills Database distributed worldwide. Laois County Council commenced compilation of a skills database for commuters who leave the • The Laois Tourism Website was established successfully with an on line booking system and County to work in other counties. It also focuses on school leavers and third level students. The constant enquiries. objective of this initiative is to document the skills profile of the labour pool that is available to an • The Laois Tourism Brochure was produced by Laois County Council, Laois Chamber of enterprise choosing to set up in County Laois. Commerce and Laois Leader Rural Development Company. The Brochure was launched in May 2005 and was short listed for 'Best Tourism Brochure' for the year's Annual Hospitality Sales & Marketing Awards (HSMAI). Performance Indicators • The Gordon Bennett Route Guide was produced, mapping the route of the Gordon Bennett Rally. In addition it provides information on attractions in Laois, Carlow and Kildare. This has Performance Indicators 2004 2005 been distributed worldwide. • Attendance at trade shows nationally and internationally promoting Laois. No. of Enterprise Centres developed Nil 1 Portarlington • Preparation of Golf Promotion in Laois, in particular, the preparation of the Budweiser International Golf Challenge 2006. No. of developed Industrial Estates 5 5 Portlaoise Stage 2 Portlaoise Stage 2 Portarlington Portarlington Doonane Doonane Mountrath Mountrath Rathdowney Rathdowney
Slieve Bloom Mountains Annual Report 2005 25
Environmental Protection Environment & Water Services Policy The Environmental Protection Team monitor and protect the rivers and groundwaters in County Laois. Work carried out includes farm surveys, site inspections and complaint investigations, monitoring and Chair Mary Sweeney, M.C.C. enforcing licences and notices under the Water Pollution Acts, 1977-1990. In 2005, they continued to work in partnership with the farming community, industry and other government bodies to improve Members Sectoral water quality in county Laois. James Daly, M.C.C. Ger Lynch Ray Cribbin, M.C.C. Donald Scully John Moran, M.C.C. Christy Mooney Community Initiatives William Delaney, M.C.C. John Cummins During the Clean up Laois Week campaign in April 2005, the Litter Wardens worked closely with the Dick Miller, M.C.C. community and in excess of 5 tonnes of litter was collected. Tidy Towns continues to flourish Michael Gormley, T.C. throughout the county and the very successful year culminated with the annual awards in October. Results at both local and national level continue to improve. 26 committees now make up the Laois Director of Services John Daly Federation of Tidy Towns with 24 committees availing of the summer wheelie bins scheme which is Senior Engineer - Water Mary White funded by Laois County Council and runs from May to September inclusive. Senior Engineer - Environment John McGowan Grants Schemes Report on Strategic Policy Committee Financial assistance was provided to further enhance our environment. 23 committees benefited The Environment & Water Services Strategic Policy Committee (S.P.C.) held four meetings during under the Tidy Towns Grants while under the Community Grants Scheme, where a maximum of 2005 and the following policies were recommended by the S.P.C. and adopted by the full Council; €700 is available, 53 grants issued to various groups, committees & associations to further enhance Illegal Dumping, Provision of sewerage schemes in villages, Litter Bins and Draft Bye-Laws for the local amenities and our environment. Through the Community Project Fund, a sum of €1,000 is Management of Water Supplies and the Conservation of Drinking Water 2005. allocated to each of the 25 elected members of Laois County Council to recommend a suitable local project to receive financial assistance. The Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund is a joint initiative with Laois County Council and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Waste Management Government. This initiative aims to contribute to awareness of issues relating to sustainable Laois County Council opened a new engineered cell (Cell no. 13) at the landfill at Kyletalesha. This development and to assist environmental awareness projects. 5 projects received grant aid in 2005. new landfill cell has a capacity for approx. 90,000 tonnes of waste. Work also commenced on the new civic amenity site at Kyletalesha and it will be officially opened in February 2006. Approval was also received to commence planning a Civic Amenity Site in Portarlington. There are also 38 bring bank Education & Awareness facilities around the county. Schools Programme Litter Management There are 83 schools & educational Education, increased awareness and enforcement are seen as the key mechanisms in tackling the training centres in Laois and the problem of litter and illegal dumping and the Environment Section endeavoured to continue its Environmental Awareness Officer rigorous enforcement where offences occurred. A total of 474 on-the-spot fines were issued in 2005 continues to actively promote the Green by the team of three Environmental Control Officers. In addition a policy on the provision of litter bins Schools programme. 47% of the was adopted. Following a survey of existing bins in the County it was estimated that 120 new litter county’s schools are participating in the bins would be required from 2005-2008. 28 of these bins were provided in 2005. Also an Illegal programme with 10 schools - 6 primary Dumping/Littering Policy was adopted and arrangements were put in place for its full implementation. and 4 secondary - awarded the Green Portlaoise Against Litter (P.A.L.), the community based initiative to develop and implement a litter Flag to date with 3 additional envisaged action plan for Portlaoise continued to work to strengthen the town's pride of place, reduce the in the near future. This programme also Presentation of prize to Alan Flynn, Zone A Co-ordinator instance of litter and identify problem areas and litter black-spots. The anti-litter zoning competition incorporates the battery collection (Winning Zone) which includes public representatives, also took place. scheme for schools. Council staff and traders. The Irish Business Against Litter (I.B.A.L.) League's assessments ranked Portlaoise in 9th position out of 57 towns Home Composters nationwide and bestowed “litter -free The provision of home composters to householders, at a subsidised rate, continued with 383 bins status” on Portlaoise. This result was supplied in 2005. Out of these, 9 schools benefited from free compost bins to assist students in achieved by the hard work and learning about waste management initiatives that Laois County Council is involved in. It is also an dedication of the street cleaners, the excellent way to link in with various subjects in both the primary & secondary schools curriculum. Environmental Control Officers, the employees of the roads and environment Competitions section and the co-operation, hard work In association with the Laois Federation of the I.C.A. the annual Art from Waste Competition invited and support of the business sector and students to create their favourite animal from waste material. 21 entries were received and the overall the wider community of Portlaoise. The winning students received a computer, printer, scanner and table for their school. National Litter Pollution Monitoring System enables local authorities to Veterinary Services /Dog Control Clonaslee Tidy Towns manage litter pollution in a more The Veterinary Inspectors ensured the continuance of the highest standards in the operation of the 12 - Winner of the special Merit Award at the Laois systematic and structured manner with domestic abattoirs throughout the year and that all relevant legislation is adhered to while the Dog Federation of Tidy Towns Prize-giving Ceremony 2005. regular surveys carried out. Warden continued operations in accordance with the Control of Dogs Act. 26 Annual Report 2005
Laois Civil Defence Water Services Laois Civil Defence is an organization comprised of citizens who provide their services voluntarily. The Water Services Section is responsible for the provision of the public water distribution network Members attend classes in many disciplines during the training period, which teach life training skills and the adequate supply of drinking water to a standard that conforms to current national and in First Aid, Water Search and Recovery, Mountain Rescue, Radiation monitoring, Radio European quality directives. In addition the Water Services Section is responsible for the provision Communications AFS and Welfare. At present we are awaiting the arrival of a Search and Rescue and maintenance of the public waste water collection network and treatment plants. dog. The Council maintains 26 No. Public Water Supply Schemes. The largest scheme, Portlaoise Water Civil Defence operates as the reserve emergency service for County Laois. It exists to provide Supply Scheme produces in excess of 7,200m cubic meters (1.6 million gallons) of water per day, assistance to the community and to assist other emergency services where necessary. It also with the potential to achieve, E.I.S. approved, 20,000m cubic meters (4.4 million gallons) per day. cooperates with the Radiological Protection Institute within the framework of the National Emergency The Council has a network of Water Caretakers who maintain the schemes under supervision of the Plan for dealing with radiological emergencies. section's Technical Staff.
In 2005 Laois Civil Defence had the honour of hosting the National Civil Defence Exercise with The water services section also operates and maintains over 20 wastewater treatment plants participating Counties from Roscommon, Dublin, Limerick City, Cavan, Louth, Mayo, and Cork North. throughout the County.
Over the years we assisted the Garda Sub Aqua Team and Kildare Civil Defence in searching the river Barrow, Stradbally Steam Rally, Stradbally Chernobyl Children Project, Ballacolla Ploughing The Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland , Championship, Mardi Gras Festival in Mountmellick, Laois Hospice annual walk in the Slieve Blooms, a Report for the Year 2004 Cul Festival in Portarlington.2003 Special Olympics, Country Fair in Emo Court, Electric Picnic Laois County Council has statutory functions with regard to the monitoring of drinking water supplies Concert in Stradbally, All Ireland Schools Equestrian event and any functions run or hosted by the in the County as laid out in the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations, 2000. Local Authority. Technicians from the Council Water Laboratory regularly sample all Water Supply Schemes in the County. The sampling frequency is determined by the Regulations. Laois Civil Defence Operational Support Unit provided assistance to Limerick City and County at the J.P.McManus Golf Classic in Adare Manor and also to Roscommon at the National Boating Exercise In the report for the year 2004 overall compliance with the drinking water standards in public water held at Lough Ree. supplies was above average at 97.9%. The microbiological quality of public water supplies in Laois was excellent during 2004. There were no incidents of E. coli contamination in public water supplies Laois Civil Defence is always ready to assist its neighbouring counties and the people of County in Laois. The overall rate of compliance with the chemical standards in public water supplies was Laois and as an international Organization are also ready to serve their own Country or overseas as satisfactory. In general, compliance with the majority of indicator parameters was satisfactory. part of a practical disaster relief assistance. Schemes in Progress in 2005 Laois County Fire & Rescue Service Portlaoise Main Drainage The Fire Service responded to 790 emergency calls during 2005. Of these 398 were fires, 203 were Work continued on the advancement of Portlaoise Main Drainage in 2005. Tender documents for the road traffic accidents and 13 were non-fire rescues. There were no fatalities in fires in the county. In Wastewater Treatment Plant (DBO) Contract were issued to the short listed consortia in April and addition the fire prevention unit promoted a vigorous community fire safety programme during tenders were received early September. The tender assessment was completed in December and a National Fire Safety Week mainly through schools and fire stations. A total of 139 Fire Safety submission to the DoEHLG will be forwarded in early 2006, for approval to award the contract. Certificate applications were processed. Fire crews skills were further enhanced by training of personnel in Automatic External Defibrillators - A.E.D., Emergency Medical First Responders and DoEHLG approval to proceed to tender with the Sewerage Improvement Works (Network) Contract Advanced Driver Training. was received at the end of January. Tenders were advertised in February and were received at the end of April. Following completion of the tender assessment in July, a submission was made to the DoEHLG in August for approval to award the Contract. Following withdrawal of the recommended tenderer in October, a revised submission was made to the DoEHLG in November, for approval to award the Contract.
The VEC Advance Works Contract commenced in May and was substantially completed by September. The Timahoe Road Advance Works Contract was successfully completed by the end of March.
Water Conservation A water conservation study has been completed with the aim of reducing unaccounted for water to DoEHLG guidelines. As a result of this study the Council now have accurate information about the Laois water supply network. The Council also have software models that allow it to pick up problems in the network and assess the viability of new connections.
Part of the Council's water conservation efforts in 2006 will focus on the hiring of 2 leakage inspection teams. Their roles will be the detection, location and reporting of leaks, surveying the network and assisting the Area Engineers with the operation and maintenance of the water network apparatus. These teams together with the Council's existing resources and the information gathered from its Durrow Fire Crew visit to Our Ladies Meadow National School, Durrow study should enable it to cut leakage significantly and ensure a good water supply in the years ahead. Annual Report 2005 27
Schemes in Planning in 2005
Portarlington Water Supply Augmentation The exploratory drilling on this scheme was completed in 2005 and advance works commenced at the end of 2005. Contract/tender documents for Main Scheme to develop ground water sources, storage reservoir and distribution network were approved by the DoEHLG.
Portlaoise Water Supply & Mountmellick Water Supply Consulting Engineers were appointed. Exploratory Drilling completed in 2005. Awaiting Water Quality Report to go to Production Phase.
Laois Towns and Villages Sewerage Scheme Laois County Council appointed consultants to prepare a Design Review and Contract Documents for the Wastewater Treatment Plants and collection networks for the towns of Abbeyleix, Clonaslee, Durrow, Mountrath, Rathdowney and Stradbally. Also the consultants were commissioned to prepare a preliminary report on the villages of Borris in Ossory, Ballinakill, Newtown Doonane and the Swan. Wastewater Plant at Portlaoise The report and contract documents will be submitted to the DoEHLG for approval in 2006.
Emo, Ballybrittas, Killenard Village Sewerage Scheme Serviced Land Initiative The Design Review and Polluter Pays report was forwarded to the DoEHLG for approval in 2005. A new treatment plant to cater for 2000 p.e. was completed in Ballylinan. An application has been lodged with the DoEHLG for funding under the scheme for Graiguecullen Pumping Station. Portarlington Sewerage Laois County Council have forwarded a draft brief to the DoEHLG for the appointment of consultants Water Services Pricng Policy for this Scheme. Following discussions with the DoEHLG this brief has been revised and is to be Laois County Council have identified all its non-domestic customers and commenced installing water resubmitted by the end of January 2006. meters. The local area offices will be installing meters in the smaller towns on an ongoing basis. The tender for installing the meters in Portarlington, Mountmellick and Portlaoise has been awarded. Mountmellick Sewerage Extension Work in these 3 towns will be commencing in February 2006 and every effort will be made to minimise Revised plans were forwarded to the DoEHLG for approval to commence preparation of Design disruption to the public. Installing these meters will enable the true cost of harnessing treating and Review for the scheme. distributing drinking water and collecting and treating waste water to be calculated.
Small Water and Sewerage Schemes Licence to DIscharge Trade Effluent to Sewer The Council received a Capital Allocation of €650,000 for small schemes in 2005. This money Two new licences were issued in 2005, bringing the total number to eight. Three of these licences together with internal resources funded the following schemes - Clonin Hill Water Source, Clonkeen are currently under review and a further six applications were received. Water Supply, Abbeyleix Reservoir Water Supply, Portlaoise/Mountmellick Water Supply, Abbeyleix STP, Portarlington STP, Ballyadams Reservoir, Cappalug/ Killimy Sewerage Treatment, Doonane Public Convenience Treatment Plant, Rahan Road Sewerage Scheme, Ridge Road Water Supply, Bracklone, In 2005 the Council spent Portarlington Water Supply, Ballygormill / Cremorgan Water Supply, Improvement to Water Main at €62,000 on the maintenance Pallas. of a superloo at Mountrath and public toilets at Portlaoise and Stradbally.
Burial Grounds Laois County Council is responsible for the provision and maintenance of 27 cemeteries in the County. Plots are sold by the Registrar and a list of same can be obtained on the Councils website or on request. This section also operates a grant scheme.
A total of €64,000 was allocated to Voluntary Groups for the upkeep of Burial Grounds throughout the County in 2005. Ballyroan WastewaterTreatment Plant Road side Pump 28 Annual Report 2005
Service Indicators
Service Indicators - Recycling Facilities
Category No. of No. of Civic Total No. of No. of Locations Tonnages Of Facilities Bring Banks Amenity Sites Facilities Per 5,000 of waste population collected for recycling per 5,000 of population
04 05 04 05 04 05 04 05 04 05 Service Indicators - Environment 2004 2005
Glass 37 37 1 1 38 38 3.27 3.27 44.05 58.42 Schools Participating in Environment Campaign Cans 37 37 1 1 38 38 3.27 3.27 0.86 1.28 Primary 46% 43% Textiles 9 8 1 1 10 9 0.86 0.77 6.16 7.55 Secondary 64% 80% Batteries - - 1 1 1 1 0.09 0.09 3.5 4.26 Oils - - 1 1 1 1 0.09 0.09 0.55 1.14 Litter Prevention and Environment Enforcement Others - - 1 1 1 1 0.09 0.09 71.93 356.32 No. of Litter Fines issued 273 474 No. of prosecution cases taken because of non payment of fines 11 39 No. of prosecutions secured 7 11 No. of full-time litter wardens 3 3 No. of part-time litter wardens 0 2 No. of litter wardens per 5,000 population 0.26 0.43 Service Indicators - Fire Services 2004 2005 Percentage of Areas within the local authority that are: Average time in minutes to mobilise fire brigades in Unpolluted i.e. litter free 9% 2.5% part - time stations 5:15 5.11 Slightly polluted with litter 49% 60% full - time stations N/A N/A Moderately polluted with litter 27% 17.5% Significantly polluted with litter 11% 7..5% Percentage of attendance at scenes where:- Grossly polluted with litter 4% 12.5% First attendance at scene within 10 minutes 38% 34% First attendance at scene within 20 minutes 49% 51% Environmental Complaints & Enforcement First attendance at scene after 20 minutes 13% 15% Total no. of cases subject to complaints concerning environmental pollution (relating to waste, litter, water Fire Prevention Total number of fire safety certificate applications Pollution, noise pollution, air pollution) 472 448 Received 109 139 No. of complaints investigated 466 398 Processed 92 136 No. of complaints dismissed 6 20 Enforcement proceedings taken 56 71 Total number of personnel - retained 67 62 No. of calls attended to from station 795 790 No. of false alarms received in station 19 16 Annual Report 2005 29
Rural Water Programme Rural Water Porgrame 2005 Capital Allocation Allocation Rural Water Monitoring Committee The Rural Water Monitoring Committee is mainly concerned with advising on policy formation with DBO Advance Works €715,000 regard to rural water supply within the County and monitoring the implementation of the various Connecting Schemes to Public Main €50,000 schemes for the improvement and provision of supplies to rural and village households. Takeover of Group Schemes €656,145 New & Upgrading Proposals €959,269 Meetings of this committee were held on; 8th February, 24th March, 9th June, 20th September and Small Public Water & Sewerage Schemes €650,000 6th December Total €3,030,414 The Council's Rural Water Programme includes: • Group Water Schemes • Small Public Water and Sewerage Schemes Grant Expenditure Expenditure Receipts • Grants for Individual Well Water Installations & Receipts
Group Water Schemes DBO Advance Works €685,564 715,376 A group water scheme provides a private water supply to 2 or more houses by means of a common or Connecting Schemes shared source of supply and distribution system. to Public Main €27,272 15,340 Takeover Upgrades €738,319 690,805 The Council assists groups by working in partnership with them and by:- New and Upgrading • Providing advice and guidance on the formation and operation of group schemes. Schemes €989,326 959,269 • Providing technical advice on source and supply issues, distribution networks, Small Public Water & water quality and treatment, scheme design etc. Sewerage Schemes €609,983 650,000 • Enabling groups to take a water supply from public water mains where this is feasible. • Providing advice and assistance on tender procurement and evaluation. Total €3,050,464 €3,030.790 • Grant aiding group schemes up to 85% of the approved cost, subject to a limit of €6,475 per houses. • Supervision of construction standards. Subsidy • Providing an annual subsidy towards the operation and maintenance costs incurred Total subsidy grants paid to groups towards operation and maintenance costs of scheme. on the scheme by the group. €190,625 Well Grants Small Public Water and Sewerage Schemes Total amount paid in individual well grants. €89,204 A small public water and/or sewerage scheme consists of capital works on the improvement and/or extension of public water and/or sewerage schemes where the cost of the works does not exceed €635,000. The Council funds 25% of the cost of such projects and it recoups the remaining 75% Design Build Operate (DBO) Bundle for Provision of Water Treatment from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, within the confines of an Laois County Council in association with Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow and Kildare County annual allocation of capital funding. Councils have formed the South Leinster DBO Bundle for the provision and operation of water treatment facilities for group schemes and small public schemes. This bundle now comprises of 38 schemes from these counties, 4 of which are in Laois. The 38 schemes serve 4,174 houses. The Grants for Individual Well Water Installations schemes in Laois are:- The objective of this grant scheme is to assist households dependent on private individual water supplies who are incurring capital expenditure to: Scheme No. Houses • Provide a piped supply of water for Ballacolla GWS 496 domestic purposes, or Ballypickas GWS 78 • Remedy serious Donaghmore GWS 39 deficiencies in an The Swan P.S. 371 existing supply of water Total 984 for domestic purposes where the The planning of this project, and the public procurement process associated with it, continued to be supply of water advanced through 2005 under the direction of T.J. O'Connor & Associates, Consulting Engineers, and concerned is a supply the South Leinster DBO Bundle Steering Committee. other than from a public or group A tender submitted by E.P.S. Ltd., Mallow, Co. Cork has been accepted and the design phase is now scheme and being undertaken by them. The statutory planning procedures are being processed by each of the the house concerned is counties. Construction phase is scheduled to commence in mid 2006. more than 7 years old. Carlow County Council is the lead authority in the Bundle and capital funding for the construction of the water treatment element of the project as a whole is being provided to that authority. Laois County Council has to fund the cost of providing treatment for The Swan public scheme. 30 Annual Report 2005
Advance Works and Water Conservation Measures in Relation to Schemes New Group Schemes and Upgrade of Existing Schemes in DBO Bundle New Schemes Grant Expenditure incurred in 2005 was as follows Scheme No. Houses Grant Scheme Grant Ballacolla GWS Advance Works Contract €388,948 Ballycarnan Ph.1 17 €10,050 Ballacolla Universal Metering Contract €116,209 Kyletalesha Ph.2 18 €61,300 Consultants Fees & Expenses Ullard 14 €40,734 for Ballacolla Advance Works €85,455 Clonkeen 67 €193,646 Ballacolla Exploratory Well Drilling €51,396 Kyletalesha Ph.3 3 €50,212 Ballacolla -Reservoir Site & Wayleave €36,486 Crannagh Ph.1 34 €179,952 Procurement Costs €4,733 Ballybrophy 74 €54,735 Coolnaboul 11 €20,646 Total €683,227 Clonmore 12 €4,588 No. Houses Benefiting 496 Crannagh Ph.2 11 €59,269 Rathevan 4 €23,231 Connect Quality Deficient Private Schemes to Public Main Pallas Little 7 €18,269 The following schemes were grant aided in 2005 Upgrade of Scheme Scheme No. Houses Grant Status Barrowhouse 61 €24,254 Being connected to Ballylinan PWS. Scheme No. Houses Grant
Attanagh 46 €1,018 Now opting for taking-in-charge Donaghmore 39 €87,266 Heath 294 €174,807 Total grant payments = €25,272 Derrynaseera 9 €5,362 Total houses benefiting = 107 Moyadd No.2 2 €1,712 Graiguenahown 4 €3,547
Takeover of Group Water Schemes Pre-takeover upgrades of the following group schemes were funded in 2005. Small Water & Sewerage Schemes
Scheme No. Houses Grant The following projects were grant-aided in 2005: Upper Crubeen 10 €965 Killenard 308 €420,152 Project Expenditure Grant Ratheniska 196 €133,401 Aghafin 27 €16,897 Borris-in-Ossory W.S. 13,571 10,179 Slatt/Wolfhill 62 €86,400 Knocks/Drim Reservoir 4,370 3,277 Ballygormill 10 €80,504 Clonin Hill Water Source 83,566 62,675 Rosenallis/Shanbeg Main 3,993 2,995 Total = €738,319 Clonkeen Railway Crossing 25,618 19,213 Abbeyleix W.S. Reservoir 319 240 Total houses benefiting 613 Portlaoise/Mountmellick Mains Link 30,777 23,082 Ballyroan Sewer 1,571 1,178 Abbeyleix STP Sludge Holding Tank 18,354 13,766 Portarlington S.T.P. 153,292 14,969 Ballyadams Reservoir 83,447 62,585 Cappalug/Killimy S.T.P. 49,425 37,069 Doonane Treatment Plant 133,907 100,430 Rahan Road Sewerage 15,601 11,701 Ridge Road 106,974 80,230 Bracklone, Portarlington 9,272 6,954 Representatives from Ballacolla Ballygormill/Cremogan 60,045 45,034 GWS with Contractors Glenfar Pallas Main 19,208 14,406 Developments Galway at the signing of contracts for Total €813,310 €609,983 Ballacolla Group Water Scheme Advance Works. The Council funded the difference between expenditure and grant. Annual Report 2005 31
Subsidy towards Operation and Maintenance costs on Private Group Water Water Quality in Group Schemes
Schemes In 2005, priority in the Rural Water Programme continued to be placed on bringing water quality in existing privately sourced group schemes to the standard required by the European Communities Subsidy grants towards operation and maintenance costs were paid to the following group schemes (Drinking Water) Regulations. This objective is being approached through: in 2005. • Participation of schemes in the South Leinster (DBO) Bundle for the provision of water treatment. Scheme No. Houses Subsidy € • Connection of privately sourced schemes to the public main where feasible. Derrlamogue 2 73.33 • Takeover of scheme by Council where group agrees. Garrintaggert No. 2 3 266.66 • Capital funding for upgrade of schemes which have occasional quality problems. Ralish 10 219.32 • Grant aiding the installation of ultra violet water treatment appliances on small group schemes Barrowhouse 61 3,383.31 that have quality problems. Upper Crubben 10 342.66 Graiguenahown 4 338.25 Aghafin 25 1,269.75 Monitoring Water Quality in Group Schemes Heath 320 32,505.60 Ratheniska 196 9,954.84 In addition to its statutory functions with regard to the monitoring of drinking water supplies, as Knockahonagh 3 290.25 provided for in the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations 2000, the Council's Knockardagur 3 283.80 Laboratory also conducted its own Management Monitoring of group water schemes during 2005. Attanagh (2003) 47 4,774.26 The monitoring programme undertaken exceeded the Requirements of the Regulations. Ironmills 2 109.72 Ballypickas 78 7,455.14 Killenard (2003,2004) 325 25,505.45 Donaghmore 39 2,249.10 Service Indicators Attanagh (2004) 46 4,672.68 Cullahill (2003) 89 9,040.62 EPA Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland Report for the Year 2004 Cullahill (2004) 91 9,243.78 (Published in 2005) Errill 250 12,805.00 Aghmacart 5 507.90 Percentage of drinking water analysis results in compliance with statutory requirements with regard Ballacolla (2003) 496 32,908.19 to:- Ballacolla (2004) 496 32,425.14 2005 2004 Public Schemes 99.13% 99.2% Total = €190,624.75 No. Houses Benefiting = 1,968 Group Schemes -private sources 94.65% 95.20% Group Schemes -public sources 100% N/A
Grants for Individual Well Water Installations Number of grants paid in 2005 =46 Value of grants paid = €89,204
Summary Group Water Schemes in County Position at 31/12/05:-
Schemes with public sources 63 Schemes with private sources 41 New schemes under construction 2 New schemes at planning stage 7 New schemes at preliminary stage 7 Group schemes taken-in-charge 31
Total 151
Committee members of Cullahil GWS, County Laois and Seskin GWS, County Kilkenny, who were among thw 31 schemes to complete the 8-module Management Training Course during 2005 32 Annual Report 2005 Planning and Transportation Policy Customer Service Initiatives 2005 saw the continuation of the scanning of planning applications as they are received by the Planning Authority. Throughout 2004 the public were able to access online all planning applications Chair John Joe Fennelly, M.C.C. within three weeks of the Planning Authority receiving them. It is planned to outsource the scanning of planning applications in 2006, which will improve the speed by which the planning applications are Members Sectoral Interests available to view on the internet. David Goodwin, M.C.C. Martin Keane Michael Lalor, M.C.C. John Keyes 2005 also saw the back-scanning of old planning files. The public can now access the planning files John Turley, M.C.C. Brian Bonham for the years 2003, 2002 & 2001 and half of the year 2000 on the internet also. It is envisaged that Michael Rice, M.C.C. John Kelly the year 2000 and the 1999 files will be scanned in 2006. Jerry Lodge, M.C.C. Jack Nolan, T.C 2005 also saw the introduction of a payments system at the public counter of the Planning Department . This system facilitates the payment of planning fees and other miscellaneous fees by Director of Services Gerry Gibson cheque, credit & laser card. The planning website continues to be a very popular attraction with an Senior Engineer - Roads Michael O’Hora average 135,596 hits per month. Senior Planner Peter Dolan Senior Executive Officer Martin Daly A/Project Co-Ordinator Rebecca Gillespie
Report on Strategic Policy Committee There were six meetings of this committee in 2005. The following policies were agreed by the SPC and referred to the Corporate Policy Group for consideration.
o Integration of Public Transport in County Laois. o Motorway Signage Policy. o Traffic Calming Measures for Rural Schools/Villages.
Planning Department The overall objective of the Planning Department is to implement the provisions of the Planning Acts and provide appropriate support measures in order to promote the physical, social and economic well being of the County so that living standards are protected and raised and work opportunities fostered and created having regard to the principles of sustainability. The Planning Department can be broken down into 3 separate areas (i) Development Control, (ii) Planning Enforcement and (iii) Forward Planning.
Development Control
The number of planning applications received in 2005 was 1,781. However it should be noted that 413 of the total applications received were invalid and required the applicant to submit a new application. The following table gives a breakdown of valid planning applications received and decisions made during 2005 and the comparative figures for 2004.
Residential housing in Ballyroan 2004 2005
Number of valid applications received 1,279 1,368 Number of decisions made 1,286 1,303 Number of applications granted 1,135 1,095 Development Contribution Scheme Number of applications refused 151 208 The Members of Laois County Council, in accordance with the provision of Section 48 of the Planning & Development Act 2000, approved the Development Contribution Scheme on the 8th of March 2004.
2004 2005 In February 2005, the contribution rates of the scheme were increased in accordance with the Wholesale Price Index for Building & Construction as published by the Central Statistics Office. Invalid applications returned to applicant 21.44% 23.3%
Referrals to Area Offices 14 21 working days Annual Report 2005 33
Planning Enforcement Licensing of Outdoor Events An outdoor event is defined as a public performance which takes place wholly or mainly in the open Introduction air or in a structure with no roof or a partial, temporary or retractable roof, a tent or similar temporary The Planning Authority, in accordance with the statutory requirements under the Planning and structure and which is consists of music, dancing, displays of public entertainment or any activity of a Development Acts, 2000-2004 seeks to ensure compliance with planning permission conditions and like kind. The organisers of such events are required to obtain a licence from the Planning Authority prevent unauthorised development. where the audience comprises of 5,000 or more people. Example: Electric Picnic held in Stradbally, Co. Laois in 2004 and 2005. Unauthorised Development Unauthorised development is where development is carried out without having received the Notice of Registration of Quarries appropriate permission or development not being carried out in accordance with planning permission Under Section 261 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 all Quarries which don't have the issued. benefit of Planning Permission or which received Planning Permission more than five years prior to the operation of Section 261 have to apply for registration with the Planning Authority. The Planning Functions Authority can seek a Planning Application and the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement, The Planning Authority will follow up on all written complaints of unauthorised development where apply conditions or refer details of the Quarry to the Enforcement Section. Laois County Council they appear to be well founded. Within 6 weeks from receipt of written representation a Warning received 78 applications for registration, of which 60 quarries were registered as operating quarries. Letter may be issued where an unauthorised development is being, may have been, or may be carried out. Forward Planning Forward Planning Section plays a pivotal role in the physical, economic and social development of The making of a decision whether to take enforcement action will follow and the service of an County Laois. Together with its role of Development Plan preparation, the section is now pro actively Enforcement Notice should take place within 12 weeks from the date of issue of the Warning Letter. involved in the preparation of Four Local Area Plans and twenty-five Village Plans. The Enforcement Notice gives a timescale for compliance and if not adhered to will result in further action such as referral to our legal advisor. Development Plan Developments in Enforcement The County Development Plan lies at the heart of the Irish Planning System and is intended to The public are now more involved in the Enforcement System as the Planning Authority is obliged to provide the strategic framework and policy context within which the Local Authority makes planning consider and respond to complaints from the public. The advisors identity is protected, as the decisions. In April 2004 work commenced on the review of the Development Plan. Approximately 500 Planning Authority does not release the names given. There has been a significant increase in the people attended public consultations, which were organised throughout the County. 386 formal fines payable and the imposition of a minimum fine where a person is convicted of an offence relating submissions were received during the Draft Plan consultation period relating to all aspects of planning to unauthorised development. in the County. The Members at meetings in the Council in June 2005 proposed that amendments be made to the Draft Plan and these amendments were placed on public display for comment. 86 submissions were submitted to the elected Members for their consideration. A special Meeting on the Development Plan was held on 4th January 2006. The Laois County Development Plan 2006-2012 comes into effect on 1st February 2006.
Urban & Village Renewal Programme 2000-2006 During the year the Forward Planning Section coordinated the annual programme for funding submission to the Department of Environment. Following Department of Environment, Heritage & Local Government approval, works were carried out in Portlaoise, Abbeyleix, Vicarstown and Ballacolla.
Conservation Grant Scheme Forward Planning Section administers the Conservation Grant Scheme, which is funded by the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government. The Scheme assists the owner or occupier of a Protected Structure to undertake necessary works to secure its conservation. The grant allocation for Laois County Council for 2005 was €120,000 which was fully allocated.
Shop Front Grant Scheme The grant was made available again in 2005. This grant is allocated to assist in the carrying out of works to enhance shop fronts.
Town Renewal Scheme 2000 Five towns in Laois qualify for tax incentives under the Urban and Town Renewal Schemes. The qualifying towns are Portlaoise, Mountrath, Mountmellick, Porarlington and Rathdowney.
Residential housing in Ballylinan 34 Annual Report 2005
Service Indicators Planning & Building Control
Category
Individual Housing Other: not Other: Houses Development requiring EIA requiring EIA 04 05 04 05 04 05 04 05
No. of applications decided 581 499 126 86 571 716 8 2
No. of decisions decided N/A 316 N/A 39 N/A 499 N/A 2 within 8 weeks
No. of decisions which required the N/A 182 N/A 46 N/A 215 N/A - submission of futher information
No. of decisions where an extension of N/A 1 N/A 1 N/A 2 N/A - time was agreed to by the applicant, under section 34 (9) of the Planning and Development Act 2000
Average length of time taken (in days) 73.1 77 81.66 80 75.42 78 76.33 - to decide a case where further information is sought
% of grants 83.48% 77.96% 80.16% 63.53% 95.27% 90.66% 62.50% 100%
% of refusals 16.52% 22.04% 19.84% 36.47% 4.73% 9.34% 37.50% -
% of cases where the decision 45.45% 77.78% 36.84% 90.91% 38.46% 70.83% - 100% was confirmed with or without variations by An Bord Pleanála
% of cases where the decision was 40.91% 22.22% 21.05% 9.09% 23.08% 29.17% - - reversed by An Bord Pleanála Enforcement No. of pre-planning consultation meetings held 900 (2005) Description Total in 2004 Total in 2005 Average length of time (in days) from request for consultation with local authority planner to actual formal meeting Total number of cases subject to complaints that were 79 117 for pre-planning consultation 12 (2005) investigated Buildings inspected as a % of new buildings notified to the local authority 12.1 Total number of cases subject to complaints that were 0 0 dismissed
Total number of cases subject to complaints that were N/A 25 resolved through negotiations
Number of enforcement procedures taken through 41 112 warning letters
Number of enforcement procedures taken through 18 32 Enforcement Notices
Total number of prosecutions 11
Average number of opening hours per week 32.5 32.5 Annual Report 2005 35
The following are the main elements of the proposed M7/M8 Scheme from Cullahill to the M7/M8 Roads Motorway-Motorway Interchange: Laois County Council is responsible for and maintains the 2,278 km of roadway and 28 km of • Approximately 170 m of standard single carriageway roadway, which will realign the existing N8 motorway in the County. In 2005, Laois County Council received a total allocation of €66,941,495 in approaching the proposed N8/M8 roundabout. respect of expenditure on National & Non-National roads in the County. Of this €2,179,816 was • Approximately 13 km of standard 2 x 2 lane motorway which wil extend the M8 Motorway from financed from Laois County Council's own funds, with the remainder coming from the Department of Cullahill to M7/M8 Motorway- Motorway Interchange. the Environment, Heritage & Local Government, and the National Roads Authority. • A Motorway-Motorway Interchange. • A grade separated junction on the R433 close to Reid Cross Roads. In line with previous years, Laois County Council carried out maintenance works on national, regional, • An at grade roundabout junction on the N8 near Cullahill. and local roads in the County. These works include salting the roads during icy periods, drainage • Bridge crossings of River Goul, Mill and Erkina. works, verge trimming, footpath repairs, erection and replacement of signs, relining, the provision of • 7 minor road crossings and associated side road realignments with an overall length of studs, and the replacement of safety barrier/fencing. approximately 7 km. In 2005, under the Multi-Annual Roadworks Programme 2002-2005, strengthening and surface The estimated cost of the scheme at present is €490 million including VAT. This estimated cost dressing works were carried out to Regional and County roads throughout the County. The multi- includes for construction plus land, property and design. annual programme was reviewed in 2005 and has been extended for a further period from 2006 - 2008. Notices to Treat were served on over 300 land owners in February and April of 2005. To date claims have been received from over 97% of landowners and forwarded to our Valuer to make 'fair and Projects reasonable offers’. Conveyancing has been completed in respect of 38 landowners. The scheme also requires the demolition of 15 dwelling houses and to date 10 have been purchased.
M7 Portlaoise to Castletown/M8 Portlaoise to Cullahill Motorway Site Investigation works, Topographical Contract and Ecology Investigation were completed in 2005. Scheme 2003 Archaeological testing and resolution along the length of land take is ongoing. The first stage of The scheme covers the proposed routes diversion of 400kv. ESB line has been completed. of the M7 and M8 from the termination of the M7 Portlaoise By-pass to beyond In October, the PPP Unit of the NRA sought Expressions of Interest in the PPP M7/M8 Motorway Borris In Ossory on the existing N7, and Contract and received submissions from 5 No contractors. The contract will be awarded in 2006. beyond Cullahill on the existing N8. The scheme includes new roads for the M7 The NRA published notice of the making of Draft Toll Scheme in respect of the use of the proposed and the M8, and improvement or National Road. An Oral Hearing to consider objections will be held in early 2006. ancillary works to existing national regional or local roads associated with the proposed scheme.
The M7/ M8 Scheme has been selected by the National Roads Authority as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) Scheme. It is planned to be a Selection of archaeological items discovered during design/build/operate/finance contract excavations on the M7/M8 Motorway Scheme with a long term concession period, in the order of 30 years.
The following are the main elements of the proposed M7/M8 Scheme from Borris In Ossory to Portlaoise: • Approximately 2 km of standard single carriageway roadway, which will provide a link from the existing N7 to the proposed motorway. • Approximately 27 km of standard 2 x 2 lane motorway which will extend the M7 motorway from Borris In Ossory to the existing M7 Portlaoise Bypass. • A Toll Plaza • A Motorway - Motorway Interchange • Three grade separated junctions on the R435 close to Borris In Ossory, on the R434 close to Aghaboe and on the R445 between Mountrath and Portlaoise. • Approximately 1 km of reduced single carriageway road way which will provide a link to the existing R435. • Bridge crossings of the Rivers Gully, Nore and Cappamacloughy. • 12 minor road crossings and associated side road realignments with an overall length of approximately 8 km. Excavating a Bronze Age Structure 36 Annual Report 2005
N7 - Castletown To Nenagh Scheme (Derrinsallagh To Ballintotty) The following schemes were in progress in 2005. 2005 • Kilmullen Bridge This project is being undertaken by Laois County Council on its own behalf and on behalf of Offaly In December 2005, An Bord Pleanala held an oral hearing in respect of draft compulsory and North Tipperary County Council in accordance with agreements made under Section 59 of the purchase order for this scheme. Local Government Act, 1955 and approved by the National Roads Authority under Section 14 (8) of the Roads Act, 1993. • Portlaoise Western Circular - Clonminam Link Further progress was made on this scheme. Scope of the Works The N7 Castletown to Nenagh Scheme (Derrinsallagh to Ballintotty) will consist of: • Portlaoise Western Circular - Clonrooske Link Works commenced on this important transport link in 2005. • 36.2 kilometres of high quality dual carriageway connecting a link road in the townland of Derrinsallagh in the Electoral Division of Borris-in-Ossory in the County of Laois to the existing N7 Nenagh By-Pass in the Townland of Ballintotty in the Electoral Division of Kilkeary in the Community Involvement In Roadworks Scheme County of North Tipperary. This scheme continued in 2005 and a total of 10 projects were successfully undertaken in conjunction • A link road from the proposed Borris-in-Ossory grade separated junction to the existing N7 west with local communities. of Borris-in-Ossory • Four grade separated junctions • Realignment of minor roads Local Improvement Scheme • Twenty-four Road Bridges An allocation of €275,335 was received from the Department of the Environment in 2005 in respect of • One Railway Bridge the above which financed 17 projects in the county. • Seven Accommodation Bridges • Three River Bridges • Associated ancillary works Public Lighting A total of 5477 lights are maintained by the Council and in 2005 the cost was €490,971.00 Recent Scheme Developments An Oral Hearing was held by An Bord Pleanala over the period from Tuesday the 26th of July to Taxis And Hackneys Thursday the 4th of August, 2005 to consider the likely effects on the environment of the proposed In 2005 Laois County Council has a total of 71 valid hackney licences and 9 limousines licences, and scheme, to assist in assessing whether An Bord should confirm, modify or annul the Compulsory 67 taxi licences of which 13 are wheelchair accessible taxi licences. Purchase Order and to assist in determining if An Bord should confirm an order authorising the extinguishment of public rights of way. Road Safety Remedial Measures Fifteen Road Safety Remedial Measure Schemes were carried out at various locations throughout Current Scheme Status the County. These schemes involve the provision of lining, road markings and signs to improve road An Bord Pleanala's decision was received on the 21st November, 2005, confirming the Compulsory safety. Purchase Order and approving the proposed road development subject to minor modifications relating to planting, dust, noise monitoring and a bat survey. School Wardens Laois County Council has 7 full time school wardens and 1 stand-by school warden at school Future Scheme Programme crossings in Portlaoise & Mountmellick. The Scheme will become operative on 11th February, 2006. A two year programme to incorporate land purchase, site investigation, archaeology, ecology mitigation measures, and other preliminary works has been drawn up. It is proposed to issue Notice to Treat in April/May of next year, and to Safe Cycling Programme take possession of the land and erect a permanent fenceline in the second half of 2006. It is proposed Over 250 children from 8 National Schools participated in this programme. to have a contractor on site in 1st quarter of 2008. Drive for Life Specific Improvement Schemes 2005 saw the introduction of the “Drive for Life” Programme into 2 secondary schools in Portlaoise. The following schemes were carried out in 2005. 60 young Transition year students took part in this programme which has raised the awareness of Road Safety for many of these students before they embark on their first driving experiences. • Eyne Bridge completed in 2005. Service Indicator • Ballykilcavan commenced in late 2005 and was completed. 2005 2004 • N80 Stradbally Streets Local and regional roads surface dressed per annum (square meters) 572700 587950 The final stage of pavement improvement and traffic management was completed. Percentage of local and regional roads surface dressed per annum 5.7 5.9 Annual Report 2005 37
Laois County Development Board
Membership of the Board
Local Government State Agencies Mr. Peter Carey, County Manager, Laois County Council Mr. Aidan Waterstone, HSE Midlands Ms. Mary Sweeney MCC, Laois County Council (Chairperson) Mr. Pat Campbell, FAS Mr. James Deegan MCC, Laois County Council Mr. Con Feighery, Teagasc Mr. John Joe Fennelly MCC, Laois County Council Ms. Anne O'Keeffe, Laois VEC Mr. Brian Stanley MCC, Laois County Council Mr. Pat Byrne, Enterprise Ireland Mr. Larry Kavanagh MCC, Laois County Council Ms. Brid Moody, IDA Ireland Ms. Helen Hanson TC, Portlaoise & Mountmellick Town Council Mr. Denis Galvin, Dept. of Social & Family Affairs Mr. Seamus Murray, Dept. of Education & Science Local Development Mr. Kevin Donohue, Garda Siochana Ms. Maria Callinan, County Enterprise Board Vacant-MERTA Ms. Lena Ging, County Enterprise Board Ms. Ann Goodwin, Laois LEADER Social Partners Ms. Julia Booth, Laois LEADER Ms. Margaret Ryan, Business Sector Mr. Pat Fitzpatrick, Mountmellick Dev. Assoc. Mr. William Moylan, Trade Union Sector Ms. Diane Burke, Portlaoise Community Action Project Mr. Michael Bergin, Farming Sector Ms. Fionn Bardon, Laois County Childcare Committee Mr. Brian Bonham, Community Forum Mr. Eric Lewis, Community Forum Director of Community & Enterprise - Mr. Declan Byrne
During 2005, Laois County Development Board held 4 meetings, together with 2 working group The Board will set up the following task groups in 2006 in accordance with the Review of its strategy: meetings. During the year the Board's Strategic Plan “Realising Our Potential” was reviewed and • Sustainability Task Group new priorities, based on the changing demographic, economic, social and cultural profile of the county • Transportation Task Group were developed. The review involved an extensive consultation process with a range of • Older persons Task Group stakeholders. The County Development Board also endorsed the plans of Mountmellick • Quality of Services Task Group Development Association Social Inclusion, Portlaoise Community Action Project, Laois LEADER, Laois County Childcare Committee and Laois TRIP. Social Inclusion Measures Working Group (SIM) The Board visited Camphill Community in Callan, Co Kilkenny to look at the anaerobic digestion plant The SIM Group is responsible for developing cohesion in the delivery of services to socially excluded on the site. groups. In 2004, a GIS mapped poverty profile of the County was developed. The Board sought and received funding in 2005 for the development of a Local Anti Poverty Strategy. This strategy is now Presentations were made to the Board during the year by the following: being developed in consultation with representatives of those experiencing poverty and social exclusion. • Ms. Angela McEvoy Senior Executive Planner, Laois County Council on the proposed new Laois County Council, as part of its objective of promoting social inclusion, prepared and launched a County Development Plan Charter for Socially Inclusive Services in the County. This is available to all our customers and • Mr. Kevin Healion of Tipperary Institute implementation will be monitored on an ongoing basis. • Dr. Ger Mullally of University College Cork.
In 2005 the Board made submissions to: Laois Community Forum • Laois County Council County Development Plan 2005-2011 The County Community Forum • The proposed new National Development Plan 2006-2012 Executive continued to meet monthly throughout 2005. Area Fora Meetings A subgroup of the Board met with Mr. Bill Ebbitt, Co-ordinator of the Regional Drugs Task Group. The were held in each Electoral area to Board played an active role in promoting Broadband infrastructure throughout the county under the discuss issues including; Community Community and Group Rural broadband Scheme. Safety with the Gardaí, The Laois Arts Plan, Laois Community Forum hosted the public consultation process through Task Groups of the Board the Area Fora on the County • Children's Task Group Development Plan and the Triad Towns • Safe Environment Task Group Project. • Education & Training Task Group • Economic Development Task Group The Launch of the Laois Poverty Profile 38 Annual Report 2005
Activities throughout 2005 Comhairle na nÓg National Pride of Place Competition: Mountmellick & Rathdowney represented Co. Laois in this year's In March 2005 95 young people from around the County met to look at youth issues. The day was Pride of Place Competition. The competition aims at celebrating projects carried out by local organized by Laois County Development Board in conjunction with students from Clonaslee communities and recognizeses contributions made by community groups to society. Community School Transition Year. Guest speakers on the day were Cathaoirleach Mr. Willie Aird, Laois County Manager Mr. Peter Carey, and Laois Senior Footballer, Ross Munnelly. Young people came from nine second level schools around Laois, and transport was organised by the rural bus Publication of Forum Newsletter service, Laois Trip. Schools that participated on the day were Youthreach, Heywood Community A Community Forum Newsletter was published and distributed. School, Colaíste Íosagáin (Portarlington), Scoil Chríost Rí (Mountmellick), Portlaoise VEC, Scoil Aongus (Mountrath), Brigidine Convent (Mountrath), St Fergals (Rathdowney), and Clonaslee Photographic Project for Schools Vocational School. Young children from Laois participated in this successful project. The project was displayed in schools in Portlaoise, Rathdowney, Stradbally and Mountrath.
Publication of 2006 Wallchart The 2006 wallchart was completed and distributed to all households throughout the County.
Community Education Exhibition The Community Education Exhibition was launched with 18 Groups taking part in the project which was a partnership between the Community Forum, Laois VEC and the Arts Office.
Laois Disability Action Group In November a Conference was held in The Montague Hotel, to help and support the Network of Disability Groups.
Older People's Networking An Older Peoples Networking Day was held in May, in conjunction with Laois Vocational Educational Committee, and the Health Service Executive.
“Bridging the Gap” The Community Forum were represented in the development of the Charter for Socially Inclusive Services. Comhairle na nÓg Laois Ethnic Minority Support Group Support was provided to assist with the Ethnic Minorities Christmas Party held in December.
Membership of Community Forum Electoral Area Forum Member
Portlaoise Emo
Eric Lewis Michael Cobbe Phil Mulhare Betty Redmond Mary Lalor Celia Deverell Service Indicators Marie Groarke Percentage of local schools involved in Borris in Ossory Luggacurren Mountmellick the local Youth Council/Comhairle na 2005 2004 nÓg scheme 82% 42% Mick Dowling Mary Wheatley Clare Conroy Paul Lynch Mary McWey Anne Marie Hourigan Brian Bonham Kathleen Gorman Ger Lynch Sr Patrice Norman Eddie Phelan Annual Report 2005 39
Financial Management Motor Taxation The Motor Tax Department continues to provide a public service widely availed of by the public. The Head of Finance: Gerry Murphy introduction of the N.V.D.F (National Vehicle Driver File) System caters for all motor tax and driver Financial/Management Accountant: Julie Bergin licences.
The Finance Department is responsible for the following services; Motor Tax, Accounts Payable, Revenue Collection, Payroll and Superannuation, Internal Audit, Preparation of Annual Budgets and Vehicle licences The total receipts for 2005 was €10,959,275.50 compared to €10,750,103.70 in 2004. The number Financial Statements, Financial Management and all ancillary matters. of vehicle licences (discs) issued in 2005 was 53,145 compared to 52,509 in 2004. Rates In 2005 the rate collection achieved was 92%. The General Annual Rate on Valuation was 57.4497. Driving licences Receipts for 2005 were €123,265 (including duplicates) compared with €124,650 for 2004. The The Rateable Valuation Multiplier for Portlaoise and Mountmellick was: number of driving licences issued in 2005 was 7,981 compared with 7,805 in 2004. A Theory Test is mandatory for all first applicants for provisional licences. The telephone number to call for a test is Portlaoise: 1.6846 Mountmellick: 2.3067 1890 606 106.
Water Charges Vehicle Testing In 2005 the total number of commercial users was 2070 of which 1781 were metered. A fixed charge Certificates of Roadworthiness for commercial/goods vehicles were issued in respect of 3,923 applied to the remaining 289 consumers. By January 2007 it is intended that all non-domestic users vehicles during the year, compared to 3,076 for 2004. All commercial/goods vehicles require a will be metered. The charge for metered water in 2005 was €4.70 per 1000 gallons. In addition there D.O.E.H.L.G. test every year. is a standing charge of €50.00 per annum. NCT (National Car Test) Prompt Payment of Accounts Testing of private vehicles is ongoing since January 2000. The Laois Centre is at Lismard Business Following the introduction of the Prompt Payments of Accounts Act as amended by the European Centre, Timahoe Road, Portlaoise. Initial test is after 4 years then every 2 years thereafter. Vintage Communities (Late payment in Commercial Transactions) Regulations 2002, commercial suppliers cars are the only vehicles exempt from this test. The use of the on-line facility will be extended to the are entitled to payment of interest on amounts owed to them after first taxation of all new cars from 1st January, 2006. Information on how to use this facility will be available from all registered dealerships. a) the date specified under the terms of a written contract or b) where there is no written contract or the contract does not specify a payment date, 30 days from Opening Hours: 9 am - 3.30 pm Monday - Friday including lunch time. receipt of the invoice or delivery of goods, whichever is the later.
Laois County Council complies with the terms of the Prompt Payments Act as amended. The Council Service Indicators did not pay any late payment interest in 2005. a) Percentage of Motor Tax Transactions which - - are dealt with over the counter 66.57%. 40,320 Service Indicators Housing Loans 2004 2005 - are dealt with by post 33.43% 20,249 a) Amount collected at year - are dealt with in other ways end as a percentage of amount due 92% 94% (e.g. on line, by telephone) 0% 8,379
b) Percentage of arrears: b) Average number of Public Opening hours per (i) 1 month old 16% 10% week - 32.5 hours. (ii) 2 - 3 months old 18% 13% (iii) more than 3 months old 66% 77% c) Number of postal applications and % of overall postal applications which are dealt with (i.e. discs/driver Commercial Rates licences issued) from receipt of the application: Amount collected at year end as a percentage of amount due 92% 92% 2005 2004
Non-Domestic Water Charges i) on the same day 12,612 62.28% 10,364 55.61% Amount collected at year end as a percentage of amount due 70% 68% ii) on the third day 3,778 18.66% 1,572 8.44% or less iii) on the fifth day 1,768 8.73% 4,437 23.81% F.M.S. - Improvements or less Since April 2005 payment to suppliers can be made by electronic fund transfer directly to their bank iv) over 5 days 2,091 10.33% 2,263 12.14% accounts. Its introduction has contributed to an increased effectiveness in the processing of invoices, the bank reconciliation process and cash flow management. Our Financial Management System Agresso was updated in July to the latest version 5.4. This was a significant upgrade and incorporated Invoice Manager and a Taxation Module into Agresso. 40 Annual Report 2005 Annual Financial Statement Capital Account Expenditure by Programme Group Expenditure Income
Revenue Account Housing & Building 53,621,109 45,734,506 Road Transportation & Safety 30,769,197 30,570,482 Expenditure by Programme Group Expenditure Income Net Expenditure Water Supply & Sewerage 6,663,267 5,067,837
Housing & Building 7,169,975 6,065,604 1,104,371 Development Incentives and Controls 4,177,313 14,512,756 Road Transportation & Safety 16,901,865 11,203,396 5,698,469 Environmental Protection 2,881,765 1,969,002 Water Supply & Sewerage 6,094,041 2,230,100 3,863,941 Recreation and Amenity 375,683 2,744,455 Development Incentives & Controls 3,073,525 1,623,170 1,450,355 Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 14,534 Environmental Protection 8,571,066 7,568,092 1,002,973 Miscellaneous Services 473,121 1,073,301 Recreation and Amenity 3,009,427 650,699 2,358,727 Total Expenditure/Receipts 98,961,454 101,686,873 Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 3,556,917 2,986,638 570,280 Miscellaneous Services 4,107,284 994,696 3,112,588 Surplus / (Deficit) for Year 2,725,419 Balance at 1st January (2,561,590) Total Expenditure/Receipts 52,484,100 33,322,395 Balance at 31st December 163,829
Net Cost of Programmes to be funded from County Rates and Local Government 19,161,704
Local Government Fund 15,968,328 County Rates 6,982,372 Surplus/(Deficit) for Year before Transfers 3,788,996 Transfers from / (to) Reserves (3,713,288) Overall Surplus / (Deficit) for Year 75,708 General Reserve at 1st January (650,504) General Reserve at 31st December (574,796) Annual Report 2005 41
Portlaoise Town Council Hightlights During 2005 Health and Education Services in Portlaoise Manager: Mr. Gerry Murphy Town Clerk: Ms. Fiona Purcell The Town Council continued to strongly support the development and improvement of the health and Town Engineer: Mr. Trevor Hennessy education services in the area.
Other Activities
Annual General Meeting • The IDA and Enterprise Ireland were lobbied for increased employment opportunities in At the Annual General Meeting of Portlaoise Town Council, held on Tuesday 28th June, 2005, Portlaoise. Councillor Tom Jacob was elected as Mayor. Councillor Willie Aird was elected as Vice Mayor. • The Town Council supported the continuing efforts to attract investment in new industry in Portlaoise through regular correspondence with the Department of Enterprise and Employment. • Co-operation with the Gardaí was strengthened through their attendance at Town Council Meetings. • Two Civic Receptions were held in 2005: Representation on Boards/Committees - Presentation Sisters, Portlaoise to celebrate their many years of dedicated service to the County Development Board - Councillor Brian Stanley town, 1824-2005. Economic Development and County Promotion Strategic Policy Committee - St. Peter's Church, Portlaoise to honour its Bicentenary, 1804 to 2004. - Councillor Rotimi Adebari • The Town Council supported and welcomed various developments in Portlaoise, particularly: Housing, Social and Cultural Strategic Policy Committee - Councillor Brian Stanley - Public, Voluntary and Affordable Housing Developments - Road and footpath improvements throughout the town as well as the installation of traffic management mechanisms, cycle lanes and resurfacing. - Development of the Arts, e.g. Laois School of Music, Laois Youth Theatre, the MayFest, Laois Monthly Meetings Summer Arts Programme, the Artist-in-the Community programme, Writer's Workshops, The first Tuesday of each month. exhibitions in Áras An Chontae. - Continued support for and co-operation with improvement of the service by Iarnród Éireann to Portlaoise. Main Services Provided Housing maintenance and repair, School Warden Service, Community and Environmental Initiatives, Conferences Public Convenience, Civic Receptions and Town Twinning. The Town Council supported and was represented at the following conferences: • The Annual Conference of the Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland • The Annual Seminar of the Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland. Budget 2005 - Community/Environmental Fund The Town Council provided support to the following:
Portlaoise Tidy Towns Committee Naomh Bríd Music Class Portlaoise Scouts Hall National Association for Parent Support Ltd. Sacred Heart School Walking Bus Portlaoise Athletics Club O'Moore Place Childcare St. Brigid's & St. Paul's Field Management Committee The Carers Association Lakeglen Residents' Association Cherrygrove Residents' Committee Parnell Crescent Residents' Association Colliers Court Residents' Association Marian Avenue Residents' Association
Members of Portlaoise Town Council presenting a Citation to St. Peter’s Church, at a Civic Reception to honour its Bicentenary 42 Annual Report 2005
Ministerial Visits Mountmellick Town Council The members officially welcomed Minister for State Dermot Ahearn T.D. on the occasion of his visit to Mountmellick for the official sod turning for the scheme of voluntary housing for the elderly at Wolfe Manager Mr.Declan Byrne Tone Street Town Clerk. Mr.Dominic Reddin Town Engineer Mr. Wes Wilkinson The members officially welcomed the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Dick Roche T.D. on the occasion of his visit to Mountmellick during which he discussed with Annual General Meeting members, proposals for a new library at the Courthouse. At the Annual General Meeting of Mountmellick Town Council, Councillor Michael Gormley was elected Cathaoirleach and Councillor Marc Connolly was elected Leas Cathaoirleach. Business at Meetings As in previous years there was exceptional attendance by the Members at meetings during which Representation on Other Bodies they made representations regarding key issues of concern. These included environmental works, Place Names Committee traffic management, roadworks and footpath repairs, signage, public lighting etc. Councillor Bobby Delaney was elected to represent the Town Council on the Place Names Committee for Co. Laois. During the year the members were consulted regarding the Local Area Plan for Mountmellick, and the review of the County Development Plan. Senior Planning Officials attended Town Council meetings Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances and noted various issues and concerns expressed by the members. Mountmellick Town Council was represented by Councillor Marc Connolly at meetings of the above body.
Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland Memorial Plaque for the late Oliver J. Flanagan T.D., R.I.P. In October the members participated in the unveiling of a memorial plaque in remembrance of the late The Town Council was represented by Councillors Patrick J. Bracken and Michael Gormley at the Oliver J. Flanagan T.D., R.I.P. at their Civic Offices in Mountmellick. Annual Conference and the Annual Seminar of the above body.
County Development Board The Town Council was represented by Councillor Helen Hanson on the above Board.
Strategic Policy Committees The Town Council was represented on the Environment & Water Services SPC by Councillor Michael Gormely and Councillor Marc Connolly was the representative on the Housing Social and Cultural SPC.
Pride of Place The towns of Mountmellick and Rathdowney represented Laois in the National Pride of Place competition 2005. Involvement in the competition was initiated by Laois County Council and community groups in both towns became very involved with the application. In Mountmellick, the MDA co-ordinated the application in association with the elected members and council officials. A showcase of community projects at MDA formed part of the judges itinerary. The Town Council also hosted a reception for the judging panel at the Courthouse and their role in the development and the enhancement of the town was highlighted. Both applications from Laois were placed in the top five in their size category.
Environmental Works/Grants Throughout the year various Environmental Works were carried out throughout the town under the Town Council's Environmental Works Programme as agreed by the members. These works included the following: Guests at the unveiling of a memorial plaque in remembrance of the late Oliver J. Flanagan T.D., R.I.P. at the Civic Offices in Mountmellick • All street furniture throughout the town was painted and replaced where damaged. • The area at Irishtown next to Grove Park was cleaned up, a new seat and bin and safety railings were provided in the area. • A number of trees were planted at Pattisons Estate, Ashgrove and O'Connell Square. • Twelve large flower pots were purchased and placed throughout the town. • Weed killer and paint were purchased for environmental projects carried out throughout the local authority estates in the town. • A contribution was made to Mountmellick's Community Employment Scheme, who carried out various environmental projects in the town as agreed by the members. Annual Report 2005 43
Christmas Party Other Activites The annual Christmas Party was held on 16th December 2005 in the Heritage Hotel. This was a sell out with 120 tickets sold to both staff and councillors. Music on the night was provided by Moonshine, Social Club 2005 followed by a disco by Anthony Jeffries. 2005 was a very successful year for the Laois County Council Social Club The Social Club currently has a membership of 236 who contribute €1 per week. Numerous events were organised in 2005: Golf Society Roy Glynn captained the Golf Society in 2005. His Captain's day Monthly Draw was held in The Heath Golf Club in July and a great day was had by On the first Friday on every month a Social Club Draw takes place for Social Club members. The all. The Captain's Prize was won by Peter Scully. The Kennedy Cup prizes are: was won by Ger O'Mahony at the staff outing held in Portarlington. The Golfer of the Year Award for 2005 went to Peter Scully. 1st: €50 2ND: €30 3RD: €20 Coiste Gaeilge Annual Table Quiz An Coiste Gaeilge held numerous activities throughout the year. This was held on 2nd March 2005 in Peigs, Portlaoise and over 20 staff attended. An amount of Included were events which took place during Seachtain na Gaeilge €280 was raised for Irish Hospice and €60 for St. Vincent De Paul. e.g. Storytelling as Gaeilge in Portlaoise Branch Library. International coffee morning in the Heritage Hotel Portlaoise.(meeting groups from A night at the Dogs various other countries and all of us speaking in our own language). This was held on 13th May 2005 in Newbridge. Gaeleagras which is a training and development centre within the Civil Service based in the Department of Finance awards Annual Golf Outing scholarships to people working in Local Authorities. The scholarship The annual golf outing was held on 13th June 2005 in Mountrath Golf Club. These was a great consist of five days special leave from their place of work. The turnout and plenty of prizes: successful candidate who obtains a scholarship and who successfully completes the course will be entitled to obtain €125 1st Prize: John Culleton, Barbara Sheppard, John Daly towards their travel expenses. Last year three employees were 2nd Prize: Jim Lalor, Louise McEvoy, Michael Rainey successful in obtaining scholarship to the Gaeltacht.This was funded 3rd Prize: Des Byrne, Rose Bray, Gavin Cobbe by Laois County Council. Bowling A night at the Bowls was held in the Roll and Bowl, Clonminam, Portlaoise on 29th September 2005. This was a well supported event with refreshments served afterwards. The winners on the night were:
Winning Team Brian O'Sullivan, Geraldine Jones, Joan Dowling and Pat Delaney Queen of the Bowls Ger Jones King of the Bowls Brian O'Sullivan
Annual Mass The Annual mass for deceased members and staff of Laois County Council organised by the Social Club in the Council chambers. Invitations were issued to all retired and present staff members of Laois County Council. The mass was very well attended. Refreshments were provided in the canteen afterwards.
Old Folks Party The old folks party provided by the Social Club for the members of PASS was held on 17th November 2005 in the PASS Centre on the Timahoe Road. Malcolm Smith and Liam Fennelly was provided the entertainment. Plenty of staff helped out on the night and as usual it was a great success.
Kiddies Christmas Party The kiddies Party was held on the 10th December 2005 in the canteen. Like previous years there was over 130 children who attended. There was great entertainment with Bob the Builder, Bear in the Big Blue house, a fairy Princess and of course Santa and one of his elves. Santa arrived by fire engine. Disco was provided by our very own Ray Bell. There was plenty of help on the day from PANG and Social Club members. 44 Annual Report 2005
Useful Directory
Aras an Chontae Eastern Area Portlaoise Courthouse, Stradbally Tel: (057) 8664000 Tel: (057) 8625227 Fax: (057) 8622313 Fax: (057) 8625227 E-Mail: [email protected] Opening Hrs: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (incl. Lunch Hour) Central Area Web: www.laois.ie Mountrath Road, Portlaoise Tel: (057) 8664168 Cash Office Fax: (057) 8660135 Block 2 Áras an Chontae Housing Repairs Tel: (057) 8674308 Mountrath Road, Portlaoise Opening Hrs: 9.00 am to 3.30 pm (incl. Lunch Hour) Tel: (057) 8622177 Fax: (057) 8622177 Planning Office Áras an Chontae Road Design Office Tel: (057) 8664039 Áras an Chontae Fax: (057) 8622491 Tel: (057) 8664000 Opening Hrs: 9.30 am to 4.00 pm (incl. Lunch Hour) Fax: (057) 8622633
Motor Tax Office Laboratory Block 2 Mountrath Road, Portlaoise Áras an Chontae Tel: (057) 8664164 Tel: (057) 8664009 Fax: (057) 8663502 Fax: (057) 8621184 Opening Hrs: 9.00 am to 3.30 pm (inch. Lunch Hour) Machinery Yard Clonboyne, Portlaoise Sports & Leisure Office Tel: (057) 8621148 Áras an Chontae Fax: (057) 8621148 Tel: (057) 8664007 Fax: (057) 8622313 National Roads Project Office Clonboyne, Portlaoise Arts Office Tel: (057) 8664850 Block 2 Fax: (057) 8664858 Áras an Chontae Tel: (057) 8674342 Landfill Site, Kyletalesha Fax: (057) 8674382 Portlaoise Tel: (057) 8620653 Library Headquarters Fax: (057) 8660858 Block 2 Áras an Chontae Civil Defence HQ Tel: (057) 8674315 Áras an Chontae Fax: (057) 8674381 Tel: (057) 8664000 Fax: (057) 8625058 Western Area Courthouse, Borris-in-Ossory Tel: (0505) 41123 Fax: (0505) 41188 Comhairle Chontae Laoise L a o i s C o u n t y C o u n c i l y h "I bpáirt leis an bpobal" p a r g "In Partnership with the Community" o t o h Comhairle Chontae Laoise Laois County Council P
, Áras an Chontae, Port Laoise, Co. Laois Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise, Co. Laois e n
r Guthán: (057) 8664000 Telephone: (057) 8664000 y Faics: (057) 8622313 Fax: (057) 8622313 B
n www.laois.ie www.laois.ie i v
e Riomhphoist: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] K ©