MAGHERAFELT DISTRICT COUNCIL

Minutes of Proceedings of a Meeting of District Council held in the Council Chamber, 50 Road, Magherafelt on Monday, 26 June 2006. The meeting commenced at 7.30 pm.

Presiding J Campbell

Other Members Present P J Bateson T J Catherwood (joined the meeting at 7.33 pm) J Crawford Mrs E A Forde P E Groogan O T Hughes Miss K A Lagan Mrs K A McEldowney P McLean (joined the meeting at 7.33 pm) J J McPeake G C Shiels J P O’Neill

Apology I P Milne

Officers Present J A McLaughlin, (Chief Executive) J J Tohill (Director of Finance and Administration) C W Burrows (Director of Environmental Health) W J Glendinning (Director of Building Control) T J Johnston (Director of Operations) Mrs A Junkin (Chief Executive’s Secretary)

Representatives from Other Bodies in Attendance Mr C McCarney – Magherafelt Area Partnership (Item 14)

1 MINUTES

1.1 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and unanimously

RESOLVED: that the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 9 May 2006 (copy circulated to each Member), be taken as read and signed as correct.

1.2 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Mrs E A Forde, and

RESOLVED: that the Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Council held on Monday, 22 May 2006 (copy circulated to each Member) be taken as read and signed as correct.

1.3 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J J McPeake Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Council held on Tuesday, 30 May 2006 (copy circulated to each Member) subject to the following amendment – the word “not” be changed to “now” on Page 5, paragraph 39 to read “GAA clubs had grave concerns and were now considering merging ….” be taken as read and signed as correct.

2 MATTERS ARISING OUT OF THE MINUTES

The Chief Executive stated that there were no matters as such arising out of the Minutes.

Councillors T J Catherwood and P McLean joined the meeting at 7.33 pm.

2.1 Submitted letters of thanks from Meningitis Trust for a donation made by the Council and Rainey Old Boys Rugby Football Club for the Civic Reception held in their honour on 1 June 2006.

Noted.

2.2 Submitted letter of acknowledgement from the Divisional Roads Manager for the Council’s letter regarding Hall Lane, Mayogall Road, Magherafelt which was receiving attention.

Noted.

2.3 Submitted letter from Mrs E J Butler, The Electoral Officer for in reply to the Council’s letter regarding the future of electoral registration in Northern Ireland (copy circulated to each Member).

2.3.1 The letter intimated that the proposals for changing the methodology for compiling the Electoral Register and the relevant clauses in the Northern Ireland (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill had been recently debated at Committee stage in Westminster. When the Bill became law the annual canvass would cease and a periodic canvass would be conducted as and when this was deemed necessary. Such decisions would be taken by the Secretary of State based on the recommendations by the Chief Electoral Officer. The last full annual canvass of this type would be in the autumn of 2006.

2.3.2 Mrs Butler in her letter said that it was envisaged that the 2006 canvass would create a Register which was completely accurate and that this would be the best possible foundation on which the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland could build all subsequent Registers created under the new arrangements.

2.3.3 In conclusion she stated that since the Northern Ireland Office was responsible for all matters relating to legislation, the Council’s letter and her reply would be forwarded to the Rights and International Relations Council.

Noted.

2.4 Councillor Miss K A Lagan referred to Item 5 on Page 8 of the Minutes of the Special Meeting held on 22 May 2006 and noted that the Minute did not indicate that the Council had decided not to agree to the Western Council’s for a contribution to the costs of their Judicial Review to Draft PPS 14. She therefore, sought clarification as to whether the Western Council’s request had actually been discussed by the Council.

2.4.1 Some Members felt that the matter had been discussed whilst others were unsure.

2.4.2 The Chief Executive was of the opinion that the Council had decided against contributing on the grounds that Council was engaged in its own judicial review against the DMAP.

2.4.3 Councillor J J McPeake asked that the matter be re-evaluated as the Western Group of Councils were encouraging and promoting other Councils to come together to fight the case.

2.4.4 After further discussion the Chief Executive agreed that he would check the Minutes regarding this matter.

3 BUILDING CONTROL DEPARTMENT 210/6/2006

3.1 The Director of Building Control presented the Department’s report for the period from 3 May to 6 June 2006 (copy circulated to each Member).

3.2 During the period of the report, thirty-nine applications had been recommended for approval. A total of seventy-one applications required amending by architects and agents before granting approval. There were three Regularisations issued.

During this period of time there was one extension of time: MA/2023/0295 – Mr Michael Convery, 79 Rocktown Road, .

There were no rejections.

Ninty-seven Property Certifications were issued during this period.

Fifty-seven applications had commenced on site and thirty-four applications were found to be complete in accordance with Building Regulations.

There were eighteen new postal numbers and postcodes issued for private dwellings.

3.3 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: to adopt the report as submitted.

4 LICENCES/REGISTRATIONS

4.1 Entertainment Licences:

Submitted the following application for an Entertainment Licence which was in order and recommended for granting:

E.145 Regan’s Snooker Room, 19 Hall Street, – Mr Bernard Regan 4.1.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor P E Groogan Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the application as submitted be approved.

4.1.2 Submitted the following applications for Entertainment Licences which were in order and recommended for renewal:

E. 8 Old Clubhouse, Fortwilliam Park, Maghera Road, – Mr Tom Cassidy

E.115 Diamond Bar, 9 Main Street, Tobermore – Mr Walter L Richardson

OE1 Glasgowbury Music Group – Mr Paddy Glasgow Outdoor concert approximate 4 miles from on Road towards Feeney on Saturday, 22 July 2006

4.1.3 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor P E Groogan Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the applications as submitted be renewed.

4.2 Petroleum Licences:

Submitted the following applications for Petroleum Licences which were in order and recommended for renewal:

P. 11 Bradley’s Filling Station, 57 Tobermore Road, - Mr F P Bradley

P. 12 Henry Fuels Ltd, 108-114 Road, Magherafelt – Messrs Henry Fuels Ltd

P. 14 Maxol/Vivo Service Station, 1 Magherafelt Road, – Mr S Kelly

P. 59 Crossroads Filling Station, 186 Drumagarner Road, – Mr John Convery

P. 60 Bradley’s Service Station, 19 Road, Maghera – Mr K Bradley

P. 92 Gregg’s Filling Station, 137 Aughrim Road, Magherafelt – Mr Mervyn Gregg

P. 93 PSNI Magherafelt, C/o Transport Services, 18 Lislea Drive – Mr Alan McIlwaine

4.2.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the applications as submitted be renewed.

4.3 Street Trading Licences:

Submitted the following application for a Street Trading Licence which was in order and recommended for renewal:

ST 11 Mr Wayne Megaw, 323 Mountjoy Road, Stewartstown Car-Park and Lay-by adjacent to the Coleraine Road, Maghera

4.3.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: that the application as submitted be renewed.

4.4 Amusement Permit:

Submitted an application for an Amusement Permit under the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusement (NI) Order 1985 for the following premise which was recommended for renewal.

A5 Declan Scullion, 4 Castle Street,

4.4.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor O T Hughes Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the application as submitted be renewed.

5 NAMING AND NUMBERING OF STREETS PN138/6/2006 & PN139/6/2006

Consideration was given to the naming and numbering of:

5.1 New apartments at 14-16 Main Street, Tobermore for M Clarke & Sons. The names suggested were:

• Ashthorn Manor • Thornhill Square • Oakview Court.

5.1.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor Mrs E A Forde Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: to name the new apartments at Main Street, Tobermore “Ashthorn Manor”.

5.2 New housing development at Mullaghboy Road, Bellaghy for NK Construction, Portglenone. The names suggested were:

• Chapel View • School Hill • Summervale.

5.2.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor O T Hughes Seconded by Councillor P E Groogan, and

RESOLVED: to name the new housing development at Mullaghboy Road, Bellaghy “Chapel View”.

6 PLANNING SERVICE 185/6/2006

6.1 Submitted a letter dated 13 June 2006 along with a pre-planning application consultation from Patrick Farfan Associates Limited for a Radio Base Station to be positioned on the grass verge, 95m North West from 20 Crew Road, Moneymore, Maghera (copy previously circulated to each Member).

On consideration the contents of the letter and application were noted.

6.2 Submitted letter from the Planning Service advising that the Tree Preservation Order on 5 January 2006 on land adjacent to 41 Tamnadeese Road, Castledawson, with modifications, had been made permanent by the Department of the Environment (copy previously circulated to each Member).

Noted.

6.3 Submitted letter advising that following the making of the Planning Reform Order (Northern Ireland) 2006 on 9 May 2006, the Department of the Environment made:

• The Planning (Inquiry Procedure) Rules (NI) 2006 (S.R.2006 No.213) on 11 May 2006 and came into operation on 10 June 2006. • The Planning (Application and Subordinate Legislation to the Crown) Order (NI) 2006 (S.R.2006 No.218) on 15 may and came into operation on 10 June 2006 • The Planning (General Development) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2006 (S.R.2006 No.219) on 15 May 2006 and came into operation on 10 June 2006.

• The Planning Reform (2006 Order) (Commencement No.1) Order (Northern Ireland) 2006 on 17 May 2006 and came into operation on 10 June 2006.

Noted.

6.4 Submitted letter advising that The Planning (Claims for Compensation) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 were made on 31 May 2006 and would come into operation on 3 July 2006.

Noted.

7 ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT 196/6/2006

7.1 Submitted report for the month of May 2006, (copy previously circulated to each member). The following matters were taken into consideration:

7.1.1 Pollution Control and Local Government (NI) Order 1978 Alleged Noise Disturbance from Rear of Property at No. 28 Davison Villas, Castledawson

Mr Burrows advised that at the council meeting held on 13 December 2005 members were informed of a complaint having been received with regard to the barking of dogs kept at No 28 Davison Villas, Castledawson. The Council, after consideration of the report, resolved to serve a noise abatement and prohibition notice on the licensed keeper of the dogs, Mrs Christine O’Brien, under Article 38 (1) of the Pollution Control and Local Government (NI) Order 1978.

Mr Burrows informed the council that following a period of time, the complainants had again complained about the dogs barking. Monitoring equipment was left with the complainants over a number of days. This equipment recorded a total of 2117 barks during a period of 4 days. The investigating officer considered this as ample evidence that the noise abatement and prohibition notice was not being complied with and that a noise nuisance continues to exist at No 30 Davison Villas.

It was therefore recommended that the Council consider instigating legal proceeding against Mrs Christine O’Brien for non-compliance with the noise abatement and prohibition notice previously issued by the council in accordance with Article 38 of the Pollution control and Local Government (NI) Order 1978.

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J J McPeake, and

RESOLVED: that legal proceedings be taken against Mrs Christine O’Brien for her failure to comply with the relevant notice.

7.1.2 Public Health (Ireland) Act 1878

Mr Burrows reported that an application had been received from Mr Steven Savage of 107 Lisaclare Road, Stewartstown to have a dwelling at 59 Leckagh Drive, Magherafelt of which he is landlord, inspected. This inspection had revealed that the following matters were considered to be prejudicial to the health of the occupants of the dwelling:-

Penetrating dampness and excessive draughts to the dwelling via decayed and ill-fitting woodwork to the windows of the kitchen, living room, ground-floor WC compartment, bathroom and first floor bedrooms (3 No). Excessive draughts to the dwelling by way of warped woodwork to the rear door and frame.

Dampness to the dwelling due to leaking eavesgutters and downpipes to the front and rear roof.

Mr Burrows recommended that the Council consider issuing a Statutory Abatement Notice on the owner requiring him to carry out the following remedial work within six months:-

Replace the windows to the kitchen, living room, ground floor WC compartment, bathroom and first-floor bedrooms (3No), Replace the rear door and frame, Replace eavesgutters and downpipe to the front and rear of the roof.

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor Mrs E A Forde Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the Council issue a Statutory Abatement Notice on the owner requiring him to carry out recommended work within six months.

7.1.3 Rent (NI) Order 1978

Mr Burrows reported that an application had been received from Mr S D McLean of 8 Lurganagoose Road, Knockloughrim to have a dwelling of which he is the landlord at 21 Quarry Road, Knockloughrim inspected to ascertain whether or not it met the Regulated Tenancy Standards under the above Order. The dwelling had been inspected and was considered to meet the relevant standards and Mr Burrows recommended, therefore, that the Council issue a Regulated Rent Certificate for this property.

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J Crawford Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that the Council issue a Regulated Rent Certificate for the dwelling at 21 Quarry Road, Knockloughrim.

7.1.4 The Hairdressers Act (NI) 1939

Mr Burrows referred to an application from Mary Ludlow to have her premises at 36 Church Street, Magherafelt registered for the trade or business of barber or hairdresser. He stated that the premises had been inspected and were found to comply with the requirements of the council’s bye-laws in relation to such premises and recommended that they should be registered.

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the Council register these premises.

7.1.5 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: to adopt the remainder of the report which was for the information of the Members.

7.1.6 Mr Burrows requested permission to bring forward two items not included in his report which was granted.

7.1.7 Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 Laying Down Specific Hygiene Rules for Food and Animal Origin

Mr Burrows informed the members that the above regulations had come into force on 11 January. This requires the premises to be approved by the competent authority. The Food Standards Agency is specified as the competent authority and through Department of Agriculture is responsible for the approval of integrated raw meat and meat products plants. DARD consults with District Councils on the suitability of such premises for approval and they are then subject to joint food law enforcement between DARD and District Councils.

An inspection was undertaken of McKee’s, 11 Fairhill, Maghera between representatives of DARD and an officer from this department on 15 June 2006 under the above regulations. At the time of inspection the premises was found to be of a satisfactory standard to grant full approval under Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004. The Food Standards Agency as competent authority was notified of the outcome of the inspection in writing on 19 June 2006.

Noted.

7.1.8 Health and Safety at Work (NI) Order 1978 Magherafelt District Council –V- Dunnes Stores

Mr Burrows informed the Members that at the Magherafelt Court held on 26 June 2006 Dunnes Stores were fined £500.00 for breaches of the Order. They were also ordered to pay costs of £75.00 for Solicitor and Counsel. Mr Burrows also informed the Members that the injured employee had received £5000 compensation from Dunnes Stores in an out of court settlement.

Noted.

7.2 Food Service Plan Review 2006:

Submitted report reviewing the service provided by the Department compared with the planned level of service during the period 1 April 2005 to 31 March 2006 (copy previously circulated to each Member).

7.2.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: to adopt the annual food service plan review 2006 as submitted.

7.3 Food Service Plan 2006/2007:

Submitted the Food Service Plan for 2006/2007 (copy previously circulated to each Member). Mr Burrows said that his Department aimed to deliver effective food safety enforcement which had an important influence on the quality of life for all the inhabitants of the District.

7.3.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor Miss K A Lagan Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: to adopt the Food Safety Plan 2006/2007 as submitted.

7.4 Health and Safety Service Plan 2006/2007:

Submitted the department’s Health and Safety Plan from 1 April 2006 – 31 March 2007 (copy previously circulated to each Member). Mr Burrows said that the department was responsible for the enforcement of Health and Safety at Work (NI) Order 1978 and Regulations and approved Codes of Practice made thereunder. He said that the Council had 734 premises currently open (as at 1 April 2006) for which the authority had health and safety enforcement responsibility.

7.4.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: to adopt the Health and Safety Service Plan 2006/2007.

8 OPERATIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT /6/2006

Submitted report by the Director of Operations for the month of May 2006 (copy circulated to each Member).

8.1 Mr Johnston gave a detailed presentation of his report, and where appropriate sought the Council’s opinion/approval/permission regarding a number of specific proposals/recommendations contained in the report. In respect of these items the following resolutions were agreed by Council.

8.2 Development

8.2.1 Department of Social Development – Voluntary and Community Unit

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor Mrs E A Forde, and

RESOLVED: that the Council had provided sufficient matching funding for the year 2006/2007 to allow the department to release the additional £5,914 to the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

8.2.2 Federation of Basque Schools

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J J McPeake, and

RESOLVED: the officers would set up a meeting with representatives from the Federation of Basque Schools to explore the possibility of establishing formal links with this Council and ‘Bizkailo’ in the Basque Region.

8.2.3 Carntogher Brown Signs

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor O T Hughes, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would issue Carntogher Community Association a letter of support regarding their request for the Department of Rural Development to consider the erection of Brown Tourist Information signs, in Irish, to direct visitors to both the Carntogher Centre and the local G.A.A.Club.

8.3 Leisure Services

8.3.1 Concessionary Rates

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that the officers would carry out a full review of all leisure services rates and present a report to Council prior to the start of the 2007/2008 financial year. In the meantime the status quo would apply.

8.4 Technical Services

8.4.1 Bus Shelters

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor T J Catherwood Seconded by Councillor J Crawford, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would erect a bus shelter at Killygullib crossroads.

8.4.2 North West Region Waste Management Group Logo

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor O T Hughes Seconded by Councillor P E Groogan, and

RESOLVED: that the first design, on page 2 of the design options, was this Council’s preferred option for the North West Region Waste Management Group logo.

8.4.3 Sperrin Integrated College

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: that in order to preserve it’s kerbside collection policy the Council had no option but to refuse a request from Sperrin Integrated College for the refuse collection vehicle to enter school grounds to service their wheeled bins.

8.4.4 Waste Management Sites

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor G C Shiels Seconded by Councillor O T Hughes, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would authorise the officers to submit the former Waste Disposal Site at Mullagh Road, Maghera to the Planning Service for comment as to its suitability as a location for waste management infrastructure, as outlined in the Draft 2020 Waste Management Plan.

8.4.5 Bi-Lingual Street/Road Nameplates

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the officers would carry out a consultation exercise with the occupiers of premises in Moykeeran Drive and Moykeeran Gardens, Draperstown regarding the erection of bi-lingual street/road nameplates in these areas.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor P E Groogan, and

RESOLVED: that the Council, having carried out a consultation exercise in the following areas, would erect bi-lingual street/road nameplates in Sunnyside Drive, Glen Road, Cahore Heights, Mallon Villas and Moykeeran Crescent .

8.4.6 Tobermore United Football Club

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor G C Shiels Seconded by Councillor Mrs E A Forde, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would authorise Tobermore United Football Club to remove the timber pavilion that is currently attached to the end of the clubrooms at Fortwilliam Park, Tobermore.

8.4.7 Tobermore Community Projects

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor Mrs E A Forde Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would allow Tobermore Community Projects to hold a three day ‘Community Festival’ on date to be confirmed, on condition that all insurance and health and safety issues, etc. were addressed to the satisfaction of the officers.

8.5 All other items were noted by the Council.

At this point Mr Johnston sought permission to raise a number of additional items. The Chairman agreed to this request.

8.6 Macknagh Road Football Pitch,

Mr Johnston reminded the members of the situation regarding the Macknagh Road Football Pitch, Upperlands and advised that following instructions from Clarks of Upperlands, on 23 June 2006, that they would not accept ownership of the Portacabin Changing Rooms, Catch Fence and Goal Posts, the Council had commenced work to remove these items from this site. He stated that Clarks of Upperlands were now asking the Council to suspend this work until Friday 30 June 2006, to afford a local Community Group the opportunity of obtaining insurance for this site. It seemed that if this materialised Clarks of Upperlands would enter into a Tenancy at Will Agreement with this group and therefore the facilities could be allowed to remain on site, as previously agreed by Council.

Mr Johnston stated that Clarks of Upperlands were advising that if this insurance was not in place by 30 June 2006, they would allow the Council until the 4 July 2006 to remove the items provided the Council’s insurance remained effective for the site until this date. Mr Johnston recommended that the Council agree to this request.

8.6.1 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor T J Catherwood Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would suspend its removal of the Portacabin Changing Rooms, Catch Fence and Goal Posts from the Macknagh Road Football Pitch, Upperlands until Friday 30 June 2006, to allow the local Community Group the opportunity of obtaining insurance regarding the site, and that the Council would accept responsibility for insurance on the site until 4 July 2006, as proposed by Clarks of Upperlands, to facilitate the removal of these items should Clarks of Upperlands and the local Community Group fail to reach agreement regarding the proposed Tenancy at Will Agreement.

8.7 Community Relations Programme 2006/2007

Mr Johnston advised that, on 21 June 2006, the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister acting through the Community Relations Unit, informed the Council in writing that they were prepared to pay £74,991.75 financial assistance to Magherafelt District Council (basically 75% grant aid) to improve community/good relations throughout the Council area. Mr Johnston recommended that the Council accept this financial assistance by completing and returning the form of acceptance to the Community Relations Unit by 21 July 2006.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor O T Hughes Seconded by Councillor P E Groogan, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would accept £74,991.75 financial assistance from the Community Relations Unit, as outlined in their correspondence of 21 June 2006.

8.8 Leisure Services – Group Cycling Instructors Coaching Rate

Mr Johnston advised that the Group Cycling Instructors Coaching Rate had been omitted when the list of Leisure Services Coaching Rates 2006/2007 was presented to Council in March 2006, and consequently they did not receive the annual inflationary increase. Mr Johnston recommended that in order to address this omission their hourly rate be increased from £14.20 to £14.48.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor Mrs K A McEldowney Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would increase the Group Cycling Instructor’s Rate from £14.20 to £14.48, for the financial year 2006/2007.

8.9 Bridewell Tourist Information Centre

Mr Johnston advised that a Mr Alan Beggs from Cookstown was seeking permission to rent the Bridewell Conference room for one or possibly two nights per week from early August, the purpose being to encourage people to read and consider the basic teaching of Jesus.

Mr Johnston reminded the members that Council policy dictated that Council facilities were not available for religious meetings unless requested by a recognised Church.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor O T Hughes Seconded by Councillor P E Groogan

RESOLVED: that in accordance with Council policy the members had no option but to refuse Mr Beggs’ request to rent the Bridewell Conference Room.

8.10 Triple Vision Productions, Belfast

Mr Johnston advised that Triple Vision Productions, Belfast were making a new six part BBC 1 television series based on Ferguson tractors, their aim being to travel for three weeks stopping off at various towns and villages. In their correspondence to Council they advised that they would be stopping off in Draperstown on Sunday 23 July 2006, where they hoped to stage a live one hour show at the Cahore Road, Draperstown. This would involve the installation of a portable stage, marquee, motor home, tents and equipment for the crews, and an area of space to camp for one night on site.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J J McPeake, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would allow Triple Vision Productions, Belfast the use of the Cahore Road, Draperstown on Sunday 23 July 2006 to stage a live one hour show on Ferguson tractors, subject to all insurance and health and safety issues, etc. being resolved to the satisfaction of the officers.

8.11 North East Institute of Further and Higher Education, Magherafelt

Mr Johnston advised that the North East Institute of Further and Higher Education, Magherafelt were seeking permission to hold a road show in the reception areas at both Magherafelt and Maghera Leisure Centres from Monday 5 August 2006 to Friday 9 August 2006. The road show would basically be one table to display literature and information and a pop-up stand displaying their logo.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would allow the North East Institute of Further and Higher Education, Magherafelt to hold a road show in the reception areas of both Magherafelt and Maghera Leisure Centres, commencing Monday 5 August 2006 to Friday 9 August 2006.

8.12 Chernobyl Children’s Appeal

Mr Johnston advised that the Chernobyl Children’s Appeal were asking if it would be possible for children from Chernobyl, who were being hosted locally, to use the Council’s leisure facilities free of charge for a three week period beginning on 18 July 2006.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor Miss K A Lagan Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would allow children from Chernobyl who were being hosted locally to use the Council’s leisure facilities free of charge for a three week period beginning on 18 July 2006.

8.13 Polepatrick Park/Cemetery

Mr Johnston stated that he had received correspondence from a Ms Hyrant which advised that her dog Tasha had passed away on 2 December 2005, and therefore she would not be requiring a licence for her this year. The correspondence went on to ask if there was any facility for tree planting in Polepatrick Cemetery, somewhere where the dog loved to walk. It also stated that there were a lot of people in the town who would like to avail of this type of memorial to their pets.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor Miss K A Lagan Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would allow Ms Hyrant to plant a tree in Polepatrick Park Cemetery in remembrance of her dog, Tasha.

8.14 Magherafelt Sky Blues Football Club

Mr Johnston advised the Council that Magherafelt Sky Blues F.C had decided to go ahead with the lease of Queen’s Avenue Football Pitch, Magherafelt, and wished to commence this lease on 1 August 2006.

Noted.

8.14.1 Mr Johnston advised that Magherafelt Sky Blues had also been asked by three Irish League Teams to play friendly matches during July 2006. The Sky Blues hoped to play these matches at Queen’s Avenue Football Pitch with the teams changing elsewhere and then being driven to the pitch. The dates and teams for the proposed matches were;

• 8 July 2006 – Cliftonville • 15 July 2006 – Donegal Celtic • 29 July 2006 – Loughgall

Mr Johnston recommended that the Council agree to allow these matches to take place subject to the Club paying the usual Leisure Services charges for the use of the pitch and that all insurance and health and safety issues were addressed to the satisfaction of the officers.

8.14.2 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor G C Shiels Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: that the Council would allow Magherafelt Sky Blues Football Club to play three Irish League teams at Queen’s Avenue Football Pitch during July 2006, subject to them paying the normal charges for the use of the pitch, and addressing all insurance and health and safety issues to the satisfaction of the officers.

8.15 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: that the report as submitted by adopted.

9 COMMUNITY RELATIONS

9.1 Community Relations Grant – Applications:

Mr Johnston advised that a report on applications received for Community Relations Grants, had been circulated to the Members. In a detailed presentation of the report, Mr Johnston advised that there were 10 categories and a total of 122 applications had been submitted. In total they had been allocated £38,806 from the Community Relations Budget.

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor G C Shiels Seconded by Councillor J Crawford, and

RESOLVED: that the report as submitted on applications received for Community Relations grants be approved.

9.2 Events and Festivals Programme – Grant-aid:

Mr Johnston advised that a report on applications received for Events and Festivals Funding had been circulated to Members. In a detailed presentation of this report, Mr Johnston specifically referred to the evaluation panel, the evaluation criteria, the scoring system adopted as a final stage of this evaluation criteria and pointed out that funding would be based on the scored achieved by the successful applicants in this scoring procedure.

Mr Johnston stated that following the evaluation criteria being applied to all applications the evaluation panel was recommending that the following applicants receive the following funding:

• Rainey Old Boys £2,690.00 • Dunamoney Flute Band £1,834.00 • Gig on the Bann £2,324.00 • Culbane Clay Pigeon Club £2,874.00

• Tobermore Ladies Football £2,934.00 • Tobermore Community Projects £1,344.00

Mr Johnston stated that the Panel was also recommending that letters of offer to the successful applicants should specifically refer to the proposals and undertakings as outlined in their application forms, and that funding would only be paid to groups/organisations that could clearly show that they had fulfilled the conditions on which the offer was made.

9.2.1 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: that the Council adopt the recommendations of the Evaluation Panel.

9.2.2 Councillor J F Kerr stated that he would have preferred to have received the application forms for at least the successful applicants. It was agreed that these application forms would be forwarded to all Members.

9.2.3 At this point Mr Johnston sought permission to raise one additional item regarding applications for funding.

9.2.4 The Chairman agreed to this request.

9.3 Congress of Irish Dancing Teachers and Adjudicators South and South West Antrim Branch

9.3.1 Mr Johnston advised that he had received correspondence from the Congress of Irish Dancing Teachers and Adjudicators which stated that the Ulster Irish Dancing Championships 2006 were being hosted in St Patrick’s College in Maghera, from Saturday 28 October 2006 to Tuesday 31 October 2006 inclusive. This correspondence advised that the impact this event would have on the local area would be phenomenal with over 1,500 competitors from approximately 50 schools of dancing from all parts of Ulster competing for 35 championships. The organisers were however stating that the greatest burden facing them at present was financial and therefore they were asking the Council for finance assistance in order that they could host this event in this Council area.

9.3.2 Mr Johnston advised that this was an event that would have been eligible for Community Relations, Events and Festival, and even Awards for All funding. It would however seem that the organisers had either submitted no applications or had missed the closing date to apply for this funding. Mr Johnston stated that in light of this development he would recommend that the Congress of Irish Dancing Teachers and Adjudicator’s request for funding be referred to the Magherafelt Arts Trust for their consideration.

9.3.3 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor Seconded by Councillor

RESOLVED: that the Congress of Irish Dancing Teachers and Adjudicators request for funding would be referred to the Magherafelt Arts Trust for their consideration.

10 PAYMENT OF ACCOUNTS 6/2006

Submitted Statement of Expenditure setting out payments to be made during the month of June 2006 (copy circulated to each Member).

10.1 The schedule provided for £908,914.98 out of the Revenue Account and £132,546.92 out of the Capital Account.

10.1.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor T J Catherwood Seconded by Councillor Mrs E A Forde, and

RESOLVED: to approve the Statement of Accounts as submitted for June 2006.

11 BANK MANDATES:

The Chief Executive advised that there required to be a change in signatories on the Chairman’s and Vice Chairman’s Accounts.

11.1 Chairman’s Account:

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: to approve the change in signatories on the Chairman’s Account to any two of the following – Mr John A McLaughlin, Mr J J Tohill and the Chairman, Councillor I P Milne with immediate effect.

11.2 Vice-Chairman’s Account:

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor J P O’Neill, and

RESOLVED: to approve the change in signatories on the Vice-Chairman’s Account to any two of the following – Mr John A McLaughlin, Mr J J Tohill and the Vice- Chairman, Councillor J Campbell with immediate effect.

The Chairman adjourned the meeting for a comforts break at 9.45 pm for ten minutes.

The meeting reconvened at 9.55 pm.

12 FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS 56/6/2006

Submitted the following requests for financial help:

12.1 Robert Emmet’s GAC, Slaughneil:

Submitted letter from the Club Secretary dated 30 May 2006 advising that the Under 14 Hurlers had won the County Derry Feile Hurling Championship and would be travelling to Cork in the near future to compete in the All-Ireland Feile finals. The Club therefore sought a donation from the Council to help fund the trip (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

12.1.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor P E Groogan Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the Council make a donation of £200 towards the Under 14 Hurlers’ trip to Cork.

12.2 Margaret Johnston, MBE:

Submitted a letter from Margaret Johnston, Bellaghy advising that she had been selected to represent Ireland at the International Lawn Bowls Series in Scotland from 17-13 June 2006 and requesting a financial contribution towards her expenses (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

12.2.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor T J Catherwood Seconded by Councillor J Crawford

RESOLVED: to make a contribution of £200 towards Margaret Johnston’s expenses.

12.3 Lough Neagh Rescue:

Submitted letter dated 22 May 2006 from the Patron of Lough Neagh Rescue seeking financial support from the Council towards the work of Lough Neagh Rescue (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

12.3.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J P O’Neill Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: to make the agreed annual contribution of £1,000.

12.4 Matthew Laverty:

Submitted letter dated 30 May 2006 seeking sponsorship to help fund a trip to America through the ‘Spirit of Enniskillen’ initiative (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

12.4.1 On consideration it was agreed to mark the letter “read”.

12.5 Magherafelt & District Disability Forum:

Submitted letter from the Chairperson dated 30 May 2006 seeking financial assistance towards its work within the Council’s area (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

12.5.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor Miss K A Lagan Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: to make a contribution of £500 to the Magherafelt & District Disability Forum.

12.6 Glasgowbury Music Group:

Submitted letter from the Vice-Chairperson dated 1 June 2006 seeking a contribution from the Council due to the fact that the Music Group was not eligible for inclusion in the Magherafelt Events and Festivals Grants (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

12.6.1 On consideration it was agreed to mark the letter “read”.

12.7 North West Mountain Rescue Team:

Submitted letter dated 8 June 2006 requesting a financial contribution towards equipping their volunteers and operating and maintaining their vehicles (copy of letter circulated to each Member).

12.7.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J P O’Neill Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: that the Council make a contribution of £200 to the North West Mountain Rescue Team.

12.8 Magherafelt District LOL No3: Submitted letter from the District Secretary dated 13 June 2006 requesting funding towards the expense of proving additional toilet facilities for the annual July celebrations in Magherafelt. The cost involved would amount to approximately £1,500 (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor G C Shiels Seconded by Councillor P McLean

That the Council contribute £1,500 towards the provision of toilet facilities for the 12 July celebrations.

Councillor Shiels went on to state that the Council in the past had set a precedent by financially supported by providing £10,000 to Fleadhs, Feis, Festivals throughout the District. This annual festival meant that many people particularly the young spent a whole year practising on musical instruments, thus keeping them off the streets. This festival affected practically every family and effort had been made in its planning to reach out to everyone in the community.

Councillor O T Hughes said that he could not agree. The Council had not set a precedence by supporting fleadhs, vintage rallies and events put on by the GAA etc. He pointed out that the Council should not give any money to this function and he personally could not support it.

Councillor J J McPeake agreed with Councillor Hughes and said that he was hesitant to fund an event like this.

Councillor Shiels warned Councillors that they were being silly and petty minded. They were bigoted to one section of the community.

Councillor McPeake described the event as just a flag-flying, coat-trailing exercise.

Councillor P E Groogan stressed that South Derry Fleadh had not received £10,000 from the Council towards the function.

Councillor P McLean pointed out with regards to the issue with flags, that much work had been done in the community to improve relations. He was amazed that such a request for funding of toilet facilities had been used as a political football.

The Chairman, Councillor J Campbell agreed that work had been done regarding these issues.

On a vote being taken, 5 Members voted for, 9 Members voted against, 1 Member abstained, voting being by show of hands. The Chairman declared the motion lost.

13 CONFERENCES AND COURSES: 298/6/2006

Consideration was given to the nomination of delegates to attend:

13.1 CIPFA Northern Ireland Conference: To be held in the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle on Thursday, 28 September and Friday, 29 September 2006 (details circulated to each Member).

13.1.1 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor T J Catherwood Seconded by Councillor P McLean, and

RESOLVED: that Mr J J Tohill, Director of Finance and Administration and Mr A Hogg, Finance Officer attend the CIPFA Conference on 28 and 29 September 2006 at the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle.

13.2 Chartered Institute for Environmental Health (CIEH):

Submitted details of the CIEH annual conference and exhibition to be held at Bournemouth from Tuesday, 5 September to Thursday, 7 September 2006 (programme details previously circulated to each Member).

13.2.1 Mr C W Burrows, Director of Environmental Health advised that five free places had been allocated at the Bournemouth conference to members of the NI Region. He said that a member of his staff Mrs Maxine Young (MCIEH) would like to be considered for one of the places but as the offer was for Registration only, other expenses such as travel and accommodation would require payment by the local authority. The cost of the conference was £652-13. Should Mrs Young be selected, Mr Burrows requested that the Council would consider covering any additional expenses incurred.

13.2.2 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor Miss K A Lagan Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that should Mrs Maxine Young be successful in obtaining a free place at the Bournemouth conference the Council would cover any additional expenses incurred by her attendance.

13.2.3 Councillor J J McPeake suggested that perhaps the Council’s representatives on the Group Environmental Health Committee should attend this conference.

13.2.4 Councillor T J Catherwood said that he would not be attending and pointed out that Councillor Milne had not attended any meetings in Ballymena during the previous year. He felt that this conference should be limited to officers only.

13.2.5 It was further

PROPOSED by Councillor J J McPeake Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that Councillor I P Milne be afforded the opportunity to attend the CIEH Annual Conference and Exhibition at Bournemouth from 5 -7 September 2006.

14 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

14.1 Mr McCarney, Magherafelt Area Partnership requested that consideration of the first two reports – Development of new office workspace units at Workspace (Draperstown) Ltd and a revised submission for Brackaghreilly Community Association be deferred until the Council’s monthly August meeting.

14.1.2 Members agreed.

14.2 (a) Motocross Grand Prix 2006 – Desertmartin – 26 August 2006:

14.2.1 Mr McCarney showed Members a video of the previous year’s advertising of the event and some of the action at Porter’s Pit, Desertmartin.

Mr McCarney said that after the success of the previous year, the world governing organisation for Motocross Racing had agreed to hold the Grand Prix of Northern Ireland in Desertmartin on 27 August 2006. He explained that this event was just one of seventeen national Grand Prix events held across Europe. Over fifty teams participated in the series and the event attracted some 10,000 people to Desertmartin last year. This would be a major international event. The event would be promoted by the Northern Ireland Events Company in partnership with the Council.

Mr McCarney went on to outline the project costs and said that the overall cost would be in the region of £½ million. The Northern Ireland Events Company requested that the Council make a contribution to the marketing budget and also some in-kind support.

Mr McCarney explained that as the organisers used Saturday, the day before the event for practices with the main event taking place on the Sunday presented some difficulties for Mr Frank Porter, the farmer on whose land the course is sited, and a number of residents. He said that he had went along to meet the farmer, Mr Porter, who was opposed to the main event taking place on a Sunday because he had initially assured his neighbours that there would be no racing on a Sunday. Mr McCarney said that the fact was that the Northern Ireland Events Company did not promote the event on Sundays by choice; it was the world governing body who hosted the event. He said that all the local neighbours had been consulted regarding this matter and although some had objected strongly to the event being held on a Sunday, the majority, whilst ideally preferring the event not to be held on a Sunday, were prepared to let it take place because of the importance of the event.

Mr McCarney explained that there would be TV coverage in at least six countries which would attract many visitors and generate 200 bed nights in the District. He said that in the previous year £33,000 had been brought to the local economy. A survey had been carried out on 100 from 10,000 people and their average spend was £200 each.

Councillor J J McPeake stated that the video and report had been enlightening and all suggested that the event had been a good success. He referred to the postcard clip advertising the District at the beginning of the video and suggested that this ought to be expanded on and that local voices should be used in the commentary.

Councillor P McLean pointed out that everything that had been said had been very positive but, on a matter of principle, DUP members had to disassociate themselves from this event because of the overriding principle that it should not be held on Sunday, which is the Lord’s Day.

Councillor J F Kerr said that he respected the DUP’s views and had no problem with that. Nevertheless the previous year’s event had been an eye-opener for him. The event had great potential. As a result of last year’s success, Desertmartin was a strong contender to host one of the Race of Nation’s events which was a very high profile race in the world of Motocross. He felt it would be remiss of the Council to allow this opportunity to pass by.

Councillor G C Shiels drew attention to the number of additional objections which had come in since Mr McCarney’s consultations mainly from people attending the local Gospel Hall. Notwithstanding the objections, however, he said that Councillor McPeake’s comments regarding local voices in promotional material would not be a good idea because of the need to promote the locality to a worldwide audience who may not understand local accents. He felt that the voice-over used to present the District should be done by professionals.

After much discussion on the amount to be contributed and what help could be offered in kind, it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the Council contribute £20,000 plus help in kind of £5,000 towards the Motocross 2006 Project.

14.3 Local Economic Development – Revised Submission:

Mr McCarney reminded the Members that in March 2006 the Council considered an application in relation to this project from Magherafelt Business Forum and approved the project of a Recruitment and Training Cluster in principle for a grant of £43,500. The Council agreed to award a grant of £2,600 to the Business Forum to recruit seven businesses for the project and confirm their exact commitment in cash and time.

The Magherafelt Business Forum now proposed to develop a twelve months pilot project to develop a business model to assist manufacturing and construction businesses to address recruitment and training issues and productivity of manufacturing operations.

In referring to his report Mr McCarney outlined the various needs for business members, school leavers, women, farmers and migrant workers and the various cluster proposals. The project had been introduced to all the businesses recruited. He outlined the project costs and the request from the Business Forum that the grant award be increased from £2,600 to the sum of £43,500, which had been discussed at the March 2006 meeting, to implement this project.

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: to increase the previous grant of £2,600 to £43,500 to the Magherafelt Business Forum to implement the Recruitment and Training Cluster project.

14.4 Transnational Networking Bureau:

Mr McCarney said that over the past five years the Council had investigated ways of encouraging local businesses to have a more international outlook. He advised the Members that after evaluation of the Hungary project the main lessons for the Council were:

• The trans-national project needed to involve a large number of companies to get the correct match • The project needed to have two to three years funding commitment to build expertise and contacts in a strategic and systematic way • Trans-national work was too expensive for Magherafelt Council to fund on its own.

It was proposed that the overall programme be promoted as “Think BIG, Think International”. The proposed programme would be a regional initiative for the North West region and jointly funded by Invest NI and the LEADER Plus programme.

Mr McCarney said that it would give businesses a menu of international options. It was proposed to make an initial allocation of £25,000 to complete the ERDF budget under the Enterprise & Business theme. The exact funding analysis would depend on the number and type of businesses recruited.

Mr McCarney in referring to his report explained how businesses would be recruited and outlined the various Options:

Option 1 – Export to Europe – Funded by Invest NI Option 2 – Export to GB and RoI – Funded by LEADER Plus Option 3 – Technology Transfer – Funded by LEADER Plus Option 4 – Outsourcing to Latvia – Funded by LEADER Plus Option 5 – Outsourcing to China – Funded by Council.

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J F Kerr Seconded by Councillor Miss K A Lagan, and

RESOLVED: that the Council agree in principle to make a grant of up to £25,000 to this project with individual allocation to be considered by the Council.

15 CONSULTATION DOCUMENTS 195/6/2006

Consideration was given to the following:

(a) Letter and Draft Housing (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 prepared by the Department of Social Development seeking comments by 21 July 2006.

(b) DVLA Consultation on Fee Proposals prepared by the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency seeking comments by 21 July 2006.

(c) The Local Government Companies (Best Value) Order (Northern Ireland) 2006 prepared by the Department of the Environment seeking comments by 31 August 2006.

(d) The Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 prepared by the Department of the Environment, Environmental Policy Division seeking comments by 17 July 2006.

(e) The Draft Water and Sewerage Services (Northern Ireland) Order seeking comments by Thursday, 24 August 2006.

15.1 It was further agreed that if any Member of party grouping wished to make comments on this document they should forward them to the Chief Executive who would then arrange to have them sent on to the appropriate body.

16 ROADS SERVICE 279/6/2006

16.1 Submitted letters and enclosures advising that in accordance with Section 8 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 a Draft Order “ Road, Maghera (Stopping Up) Order (NI) 2006” would be published in the press in the near future (copy circulated to each Member)

16.2 Councillor Miss K A Lagan stated that there had been an enormous number of objections to the Stopping Up of Fallagloon Road and that Roads Service should be asked about the traffic situation at the end of the Fallagloon Road.

Noted.

16.2 Submitted letter for reply from Mr R Faloon, Roads Service dated 2 June 2006 to the Council’s concerns about the property known as Mossbawn at 126 Hillhead Road, Castledawson (copy previously circulated to each Member).

16.2.1 Mr Faloon stated that whilst aware of the environmental and cultural importance of this area and was a major consideration in the selection of the preferred route for the A6 Randalstown to Castledawson Dualling Scheme. The preferred route was currently being refined to reduce impact on property and the environment especially around the area of the ‘Thatch Bar’ and 126 Hillhead Road.

16.2.2 The contents of the letter were noted.

17 CRIMESTOPPERS

17.1 Submitted a letter from the Chairman of Crimestoppers, Northern Ireland seeking the Council’s support in the fight against crime by promoting their work in the Magherafelt Council area (copy of letter previously circulated to each Member).

17.2 It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood

That the Council support the promotion of Crimestoppers work within its District.

17.3 Councillor J J McPeake said that there was ambiguity about the work of Crimestoppers. He personally was not up to speed and asked the Chief Executive to obtain more information. He felt that this request presented all sorts of implications, for example, costs to the Council and there also appeared to be no time limit on it.

17.4 Amendment

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor J J McPeake Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr

That the Council defer consideration of the request until the Chief Executive had researched and was in a position to supply more information on Crimestoppers work within the District.

On the Amendment being to put to a vote, 9 Members voted for, 5 Members voted against, voting by show of hands. The Chairman declared the Amendment lost.

On the Amendment becoming the Substantive Motion, 9 Members voted for, 5 Members voted against, voting being by show of hands. The Chairma declared the motion carried.

18 Revision of Regional Development Strategy (RDS):

Submitted a letter from Omagh District Council dated 15 June 2006 expressing concerns regarding the perceived policy shift in relation to the “countryside” in PPS14 and also the fact that the consultation period on the Review of the Regional Development Strategy took place over the summer period and closes on 1 September 2006.

18.2 Councils in the West Rural Region, including Magherafelt were being invited to consider making a joint response to the Review of the RDS. Dr Michael Murray and Mr John Greer from Queen’s University, Belfast were keen to assist the West Rural Region Councils with a similar approach as used in PPS14 at both an individual and collective level.

18.3 The Chief Executive of Omagh District Council had written to the Minister for Regional Development requesting an extension of the consultation period to enable proper consultation of this important matter.

18.4 The letter concluded by asking the Council to confirm if it was prepared to join in a collective response to the review of the Regional Development Strategy with a similar format to that used in the PPS 14 programme.

18.5 Councillor Miss K A Lagan felt that a combined response from the West Rural Region Councils would be beneficial.

18.6 The Chief Executive felt that there could be rivalry between Councils. The Regional Development Strategy referred to main hubs and regional hubs and thus he felt that it was worthwhile for the Council to respond independently.

18.7 Councillor J F Kerr enquired if a response had to be made immediately.

18.8 The Chief Executive replied by saying that it probably should be responded to now.

18.9 Councillor J J McPeake suggested that the Council do its own response and feed into the West Rural Region’s response.

18.10 On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J J McPeake Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that the Council authorise the Chief Executve to negotiate and employ the services of Farningham McCreadie to prepare the Council’s own response to the Revision of the Regional Development Strategy, and reserve its position to join in the collective West Rural Regions’ response.

19 RESOLUTION TO PROCEED “IN COMMITTEE”

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor T J Catherwood, and

RESOLVED: that the Council proceed “In Committee”.

Council “In Committee”

20 ACUTE SERVICES AT THE MID-ULSTER HOSPITAL

This item was taken “In Committee”.

21 BONFIRES

This item was taken “In Committee”.

22 COUNCILLORS’ ALLOWANCES

This item was taken “In Committee”.

23 STAFF MATTERS

There item was taken “In Committee”.

24 LEGAL MATTERS

This item was taken “In Committee”.

25 NOMINATED SUB CONTRACTORS FOR MEADOWBANK PROJECT

This item was taken “In Committee”.

26 RESOLUTION TO PROCEED IN “OPEN COUNCIL”

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor Mrs E A Forde, and

RESOLVED: that proceedings be resumed in “Open Council”.

Proceedings in “Open Council”

It was

PROPOSED by Councillor P McLean Seconded by Councillor Mrs E A Forde, and

RESOLVED: that the foregoing proceedings of the Council “In Committee” be and they are hereby approved and adopted.

27 NOMINATION TO LOUGH NEAGH AND LOWER BANN ADVISORY COMMITTEES

On consideration it was

PROPOSED by Councillor J J McPeake Seconded by Councillor J F Kerr, and

RESOLVED: that Councillor I P Milne continue to serve on the Lough Neagh and Lower Bann Advisory Committees for the year 2006/2007.

28 SEALING OF DOCUMENTS

The seal of the Council is hereby affixed to the following documents:

1 Transfer of lands (formerly the Council’s Waste Disposal site) at Station Road, Magherafelt to Mr Hugh McGuckin (Senior) of 38 Station Road, Magherafelt to Hugh McGuckin (Junior) of 36 Station Road, Magherafelt in accordance with the covenants contained in the transfer document.

2 Transfer of lands situated at Crawfordsburn, Maghera (Folio 17,000) from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to Magherafelt District Council for the agreed price of £5.00.

3 Indenture and Memorandum of Sale wherein Magherafelt District Council as rendor sold property situated at the rear of Main Street, Castledawson to the Trustees of Castledawson Presbyterian Church for the sum of £5,992.19 (including the Council’s legal expenses).

4 Agreement between Glassdon Waste and the members of the North West Region Waste Management Group for the delivery of services as specified in Clause 4.1 to the Agreement (Dry Recyclables contract) for a minimum term of five years from 1 March 2004 with the NWRWMG retaining the option to extend the term in accordance with the provisions of the Agreement.

29 FOR THE INFORMATION OF MEMBERS

The following items were submitted for the information of Members:-

(a) Minutes of the 378 Meeting of the North-Eastern Education and Library Board held on Tuesday, 25 April 2006. (b) Minutes of Meetings of the Northern Health and Social Services Council held on Wednesday, 5 April 2006 (c) Minutes of NILGA Full Members’ Meeting held on 26 May 2006 (d) Minutes of the forty-first meeting of the Lough Neagh Advisory Committee held on Wednesday, 1 March 2006. (e) Minutes of the forty-first meeting of the Lower Bann Advisory Committee held on Thursday, 9 March 2006. (f) Press Release of the Northern Health and Social Service Board’s May meeting. (g) Copy of ‘Code of Audit Practice 2006’ (copy circulated to each Member) (h) Copy of ‘Shared Peace’ published by the Community Relations Council

(i) Copy of ‘Co-ordinating to Safeguard Children’ published by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (j) Copy of ‘Mental Health Improvement and Well-Being – A Personal Public & Political Issue’ the fourth report of the Bamford Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability (NI) (k) Copy of ‘The Irish Football Association Annual General Meeting’ (l) Copy of ‘Good Relations in Practice’ a report of progress on the Good Relations Duty. (m) Review of Day Care Services in the Northern Health and Social Services Board Area 2002/03 – 2004/05 (copy circulated to each Member) (n) Consultation Report on Rate Reliefs for Business in Northern Ireland prepared by the Department of Finance and Personnel (o) Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Corporate and Business Plans for 2006/2007 – 2008/2009.

The meeting concluded at 11.25 pm.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

The foregoing Minutes are hereby Confirmed

______(Chairman)

______(Date)