Minutes of July 2023 Monthly Meeting of Clare County Council

Present

Councillors

Councillors M. Howard, J. Flynn, C. Colleran Molloy, P. Murphy, A. Norton,
P. Daly, T. O’Callaghan, J. Cooney, P. Hayes, P. Burke, J. Crowe, M. Begley,
P.J. Ryan, P. McMahon, G. Flynn, D. McGettigan, S. Talty, J. Killeen, J. Garrihy,
G. Keating, C. Murphy, I. Lynch.

Officials

• Mr. Pat Dowling, Chief Executive.
• Ms. Ann Reynolds, Meetings Administrator.
• Ms. Margaret O’Rourke, A/Staff Officer.
• Dr. Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development.
• Ms. Noeleen Fitzgerald, Director of Finance and Support Services.
• Mr. Jason Murphy, A/Director of Rural Development and Ukrainian Services.
• Ms. Siobhán McNulty, Director of Physical Development.
• Mr. Padraig MacCormaic, A/Senior Executive Officer, Social Development.
• Ms. Deirdre O’Shea, Head of Tourism.

Present via MS Teams:

Cllrs. A. Norton, A. O’Callaghan, T. O’Brien, P. O’Gorman, L. Grant.

Absent

Cllr. P.J. Kelly and B. Chambers.

 

Presiding

The Cathaoirleach, Joe Cooney presided.

Votes of sympathy

A vote of sympathy was extended to the following:

• The Garrihy family, Lisdoonvarna on the death of John Garrihy, RIP
• The Sheedy family, Quin on the death of Nuala Sheedy, RIP
• The Donnelly family, Lissycasey on the death of Alice Donnelly, RIP
• The Keating family Kilbaha on the death of Sean Keating, RIP
• The Burke family Ennis on the death of Bobby Burke,
• The Daly family Cooraclare on the death of Brendan Daly, RIP
• The Daly family Cooraclare on the death of John Daly, RIP

Cllr. P. Hayes proposed that the meeting be adjourned for 15 minutes as a mark of respect.  This was seconded by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan and agreed by the members present.

The meeting resumed at 3.25 p.m.

Approval for travel.

It was approved that Cathaoirleach, Cllr. J. Cooney, Chair of Physical Development SPC, Cllrs. J. Crowe, A. Norton, C. Colleran Molloy, M. Howard, P. Daly and P. Murphy take part in an Active Travel International study tour in Holland having been proposed by Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy seconded by Cllr. A. Norton and agreed by the members present.

 

Item 1: Minutes of Council Meetings

a.      Ar moladh Cllr. J. Garrihy
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

“That the Minutes of the June Meeting of Clare County Council held on 12^th June, 2023 be adopted and signed.”

b.      Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Burke agus glacadh leis

“That the Minutes of Clare County Council AGM held on 30^th June, 2023 be adopted and signed.”

 

Item 2: Matters Arising

There were no matters arising.

 

Item 3: Correspondence/Comhfhreagras

The following correspondence was circulated at the meeting:

• Correspondence dated 5^th July, 2023 from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in relation to grant scheme to support individuals who are self building their first time home.

The following correspondence was circulated with the agenda:

1. Correspondence dated 9^th June, 2023 from the Department of Rural and Community Development in relation to legislation regarding dogs.
2. Correspondence dated 28^th June, 2023 from the Department of Housing in relation to grant of €50,000 for first time owners to build their own houses for permanent occupancy.
3. Correspondence dated 28^th June, 2023 from the Office of the Minister for Defence in relation to National Security Policy.
4. Correspondence dated 3^rd July, 2023 from the Office of the Minister for Finance regarding the Help to Buy incentive.
5. Correspondence dated 15^th June, 2023 from the Health Service Executive in relation to the recruitment of home care staff.
6. Correspondence dated 15^th June, 2023 from the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media in relation to access for carers when accompanying people with disabilities to venues throughout Ireland.
7. Correspondence dated 23^rd June, 2023 from the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth concerning the number of asylum seekers being placed in Clare.
8. Correspondence dated 21^st June, 2023 from the Office of the Taoiseach concerning the number of asylum seekers being placed in Clare.
9. Correspondence dated 30^th June, 2023 from the Office of the Minister for Justice concerning the number of asylum seekers being placed in Clare.

     10.Correspondence dated 15^th June, 2023 from Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne TD in relation to roads programme funding.

     11.Correspondence dated 26^th June, 2023 from Deputy Cathal Crowe TD in relation to grant of €50,000 for first time owners to build their own houses for permanent occupancy.

12. Correspondence dated 15^th June, 2023 from Irish Foster Care Association in relation to the plight of foster families in the county.
13. Resolution circulated by Wexford County Council in relation to the cessation of the term “Halting Sites”.
14. Resolution circulated by Wicklow County Council in relation to Climate and Biodiversity emergency.
15. Details of NDA Annual Conference 2023 entitled “Guaranteeing the equal participation of disabled people in political and public life in Ireland – UNCRPD article 29” taking place in the Aviva Stadium Dublin and online on 26^th October 2023.

Item 4: Minutes of Municipal District Meetings

a.         Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly
Cuidithe ag Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy agus glacadh leis

“That the minutes of Ennis Municipal District Meeting held on the 6^th June, 2023 be noted.”

b.                  Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly
Cuidithe ag Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy agus glacadh leis

“That the minutes of the Ennis Municipal District Special Meeting held on the 12^th June, 2023 be noted.”

 

Item 5: Minutes of Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) Meetings

a.         Ar moladh Cllr. M. Begley
Cuidithe ag Cllr. J. Flynn agus glacadh leis

“That the minutes of the Economic Development S.P.C. meeting held on 6th March, 2023 be noted”.

b.         Ar moladh Cllr. G. Flynn
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

“That the minutes of the Social Development S.P.C. meeting held on 7^th March, 2023 be noted”.

 

Item 6: Minutes of the Corporate Policy Group Meetings

The members noted the minutes of the meeting held on 2^nd June, 2023 as presented.

Item 7: Monthly Management Report

The monthly management report attached to the agenda included key activities in the principal service areas and was noted by the members.

Cllr. J. Flynn welcomed the recent funding allocation for the Ennis public realm works and requested that the executive examine the traffic disruptions being experienced due to work on the water scheme and the closure of O’Connell Street as well as the traffic lights at Carmody Street on the Kilrush Road junction.

Cllr. J. Flynn expressed concern in relation to the 2022 EPA report on septic tank inspections as he felt that there is a potential for environmental damage and threats to public water supplies and health risks.

Cllr. J. Flynn requested an update on the Kilnamona road upgrade.

Dr. C. Kirby, Director of Economic Development responded to the traffic congestion issue and stated that the Uisce Eireann works have moved into the next phase which will ease traffic congestion and this will be noticeable this week.

P. Dowling, Chief Executive undertook to revert to Cllr. J. Flynn in relation to the septic tanks query.  Mr. Dowling welcomed the large scale investment towards the strategic plan for growth of Ennis town as seen by Government.

S. Lenihan, Senior Engineer, Project Management Office informed the meeting that Clare County Council are working with businesses in Ennis and will envisage that interruption will be kept to a minimum.  In relation to the N85 Mr. Lenihan stated that TII funding was not received initially and that the Council raised this at Government level and are keeping pressure on TII to review this situation.

Cllr. J. Killeen referred to roads in the North Clare area and asked for an update in relation to the 20% of roads which were completed under LIS.

Cllr. P. Hayes referred to the Tulla and Barefield junctions on the M18 and stated that despite raising this issue several times with TII it has not been addressed.  Cllr. Hayes felt that the Council should demand and expect a solution to this high risk situation.

P. Dowling, Chief Executive stated that he is conscious of the sensitivity and gravity of the situation and assured Cllr. Hayes that the Council will fulfill its advocacy role and will continue to raise this issue with TII.

Cllr. J. Garrihy requested a more detailed timeline in relation to the Ballyvaughan Water Treatment Plant.  Cllr. J. Garrihy referred to “Embracing Clare’s Outdoors” First Clare Outdoor Recreation Expo to Showcase Clubs and Organisations which highlights the great amenities available and all the clubs involved.  Cllr. Garrihy encouraged everyone to participate.

Cllr. P. Burke welcomed the appointment of Stephen Hanley as General Manager of Clare Tourism East.

Cllr. C. Murphy welcomed the appointment of the contractor to commence construction works at Lough Donnell.

Cllr. J. Killeen referred to the launch of the Shannon Estuary Taskforce Report and noted that it is projected that 50,000 jobs will be created on the western seaboard.  Cllr. Killeen noted that improvements to the port and roads were highlighted as priority on the morning of the launch.  Cllr. Killeen stated that it is important that the Oireachtas Members be kept informed of the ambitions and expectations regarding the development of the estuary and ensure that development takes place.

P. Dowling, Chief Executive addressed the meeting and acknowledged the launch of the Shannon Estuary Taskforce Report in Ardnacrusha on Saturday and noted the significant gathering of key leaders at national level at this event which demonstrates the effort to transform Shannon Estuary into the future while seeking to address the imbalance that exists between the East and the West of Ireland.  Mr. Dowling undertook to circulate a copy of the Shannon Estuary Taskforce Report to the members.

Mr. Dowling informed the members that there is ongoing progress of remediation at the Roche site in Clarecastle and that there is continuing discussion and engagement with them in relation to carving out the future of the site.  Mr. Dowling stated that it is expected that this will bring a level of collaboration into a positive leadership role with other key agencies which will fulfill the economic brief in a wholesome way with Roche.

Mr. Dowling noted that the 2023 KPMG Womens Irish Open golf event will take place in Dromoland on 1^st – 3^rd September and encouraged support for this event.  Mr. Dowling stated that Clare County Council are working with the local community in Newmarket on Fergus who are organizing a community festival to mark the occasion.

Mr. Dowling notified the meeting that the Walker Cup Golf competition will take place in Lahinch on the first weekend in September in 2026.  Mr. Dowling stated that this will be the third time in 100 years that this event will take place in Ireland and that Clare County Council will be fully supportive of this worldwide event.

Item 8: Disposal of property known as “Grey Gables”, Station Road, Ennis, Co. Clare pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 and Section 211 of the Planning & Development Act, 2000.

 

Report dated 6^th June, 2023 from Carmel Greene, Senior Executive Officer, Property Management Unit was circulated with the agenda together with map.  The report states that it is proposed to dispose of house known as “Grey Gables” Station Road, Ennis, Co. Clare subject to the conditions as set out in the notice served on the members dated 6^th June, 2023.

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

“Notice having been served pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, Clare County Council approves pursuant to the powers vested on it at Section 211 of the Planning & Development Act, 2000 as amended, of disposal of property known as “Grey Gables” Station Road, Ennis, Co. Clare subject to the conditions as set out in the notice served on the members dated 6^th June, 2023.” 

Item 9: Disposal of land at Drumquin, Barefield, Co. Clare pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001 and Section 211 of the Planning & Development Act, 2000.

Report dated 6^th June, 2023 from Carmel Greene, Senior Executive Officer, Property Management Unit was circulated with the agenda together with map.  The report states that it is proposed to dispose of a piece of ground at Drumquin, Barefield, Co. Clare subject to the conditions as set out in the notice served on the members dated 6^th June, 2023.

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly
Cuidithe ag Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy agus glacadh leis

“Notice having been served pursuant to Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, Clare County Council approves pursuant to the powers vested on it at Section 211 of the Planning & Development Act, 2000 as amended, of disposal of piece of ground at Drumquin, Barefield, Co. Clare subject to the conditions as set out in the notice served on the members dated 6^th June, 2023.” 

 

Item 10: Report in accordance with Part XI, Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and Part VIII, Article 80 and 81 of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001-2013 for the proposed development of a storage building at Kilrush fire station, Kilrush, Co. Clare.

Report dated 4^th July, 2023 from Adrian Kelly, Chief Fire Officer was circulated with the agenda together with the Chief Executive’s report dated 19^th June, 2023 (including Clare County Council’s appropriate assessment screening), which had been prepared by Helen Quinn, A/Senior Planner, under Delegation Order HR151 dated 9^th April 2021.   The reports outline details of a proposed development consisting of (1) the construction of a steel shed to accommodate the parking of existing vehicles within the fire station site, and (2) associated ancillary works and services  at Kilrush Fire Station, Stewart Street, Kilrush, Co. Clare and the members were asked if there were any issues that they wished to raise in respect of the report circulated.

As the Chief Executive’s report had been duly considered by the members, in accordance with Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and Part VIII, Article 80 and 81 of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001, as amended, and as there was no proposal to vary or modify the development, and as there was no proposal to refuse the development, accordingly, the development can proceed as outlined.

 

Item 11: Report in accordance with Part XI, Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and Part VIII, Article 80 and 81 of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001-2013 for the proposed refurbishment and extension of Old Rectory (Protected Structure) Mountshannon as a Tourism Interpretive Centre and Café uses.

Report dated 3^rd July, 2023 from Leonard Cleary, Director of Tourism Development was circulated with the agenda together with the Chief Executive’s report dated 30^th June, 2023 (including Clare County Council’s appropriate assessment screening), which had been prepared by Helen Quinn, A/Senior Planner, under Delegation Order HR151 dated 9^th April 2021.   The reports outline details of a proposed development consisting of a Tourism interpretive Centre and café uses at the Old Rectory building (a Protected Structure) in Mountshannon, Co. Clare and the members were asked if there were any issues that they wished to raise in respect of the report circulated.

As the Chief Executive’s report had been duly considered by the members, in accordance with Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and Part VIII, Article 80 and 81 of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001, as amended, and as there was no proposal to vary or modify the development, and as there was no proposal to refuse the development, accordingly, the development can proceed as outlined.

The elected members welcomed the progress in relation to this sensitive project and thanked all involved. 

 

Item 12: Adoption of Clare Homeless Action Team Central Placement Policy

Report dated 8^th June, 2023 from Pádraig MacCormaic, A/Senior Executive Officer, Social Development was circulated with the agenda together with the Draft Homeless Action Team Central Placement Policy.  The report states that the draft Policy sets out details and processes to ensure smooth and efficient management of the provision of, and the management of emergency services.  The draft Policy was presented to the meeting of the Social and Cultural SPC on 7^th June, 2023 whereby it was recommended that it be forwarded to the full Council for adoption.

The Draft Homeless Action Team Central Placement Policy was adopted by the members present having been proposed by Cllr. J. Flynn, seconded by Cllr. D. McGettigan and agreed.

Cllr. J. Flynn acknowledged the work being undertaken by the Homeless Action Team and raised concern in relation to the lack of facilities available during the day for people who access homeless services.

 

Item 13: Adoption of Joint Working Protocol Between Clare County Council Homeless Action Team and HSE.

Report dated 8^th June, 2023 from Pádraig MacCormaic, A/Senior Executive Officer, Social Development was circulated with the agenda together with the Draft Joint Working Protocol between Clare County Council Homeless Action Team and HSE.  The report states that the protocol has been developed to assist staff in managing the emerging interface and to clarify the separate and distinct roles, responsibilities of both agencies, to develop, and enhance a collaborative partnership between the HSE and Clare County Council.  This will lead to a consistent approach where services are delivered appropriately, meeting holistic needs of those in homelessness and their families within available resources and in accordance with Government policies and legislative requirements.  The draft Policy was presented to the meeting of the Social and Cultural SPC on 7^th June, 2023 whereby it was recommended that it be forwarded to the full Council for adoption.

The Draft Joint Working Protocol between Clare County Council Homeless Action Team and HSE was adopted by the members present having been proposed by Cllr. D. McGettigan, seconded by Cllr. P. Murphy and agreed.

 

 

Item 14: Ratification of two new Clare Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) members.

Report dated 27^th June, 2023 from Bernadette Haugh, Chief Officer, Clare LCDC was circulated with the agenda.  The report states that Sergeant Caitriona Brooks, Crime Prevention Officer has been nominated by An Garda Siochána to replace Mary Moloney (retired from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection) to the LCDC. 

Clare PPN Secretariat would like to nominate Theresa O’Donohue to sit on the LCDC as an interim representative for Clare PPN’s environmental college pending a new PPN election process scheduled for September 2023.

These nominations were approved having been proposed by Cllr. J. Killeen, seconded by Cllr. C. Murphy and agreed by the members present.

 

Item 15: Establishment of a County Clare Heritage Forum and a County Clare Biodiversity Forum.

Report dated 4^th July, 2023 from Dr. Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development was circulated with the agenda.  The report states that Clare County Council is set to commence the process of preparing a new Clare County Heritage Plan for the period 2023-2029 and a new Clare County Biodiversity Plan 2024-2030.

In order to best inform both of these plan preparation processes and having regard to best practice guidance it is the intention of Clare County Council to establish a County Clare Heritage and Biodiversity Forum.

The Heritage and Biodiversity Forum will provide a platform for comprehensive stakeholder consultation to inform the preparation of the new Heritage and Biodiversity Plans.  The Forum members will comprise of representatives from internal County Council staff, elected members, prescribed and relevant agencies, the community and voluntary sector encompassing as broad a mix of interested stakeholders as possible.  It is intended that the Heritage and Biodiversity forum will have a countywide remit and will continue to have a role post the finalization of the Heritage and Biodiversity Plans.

It was proposed by Cllr. G. Flynn, seconded by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan and agreed by the members present that Cllrs. G. Keating, L. Grant and C. Murphy be nominated to the Clare County Clare Heritage Forum and the County Clare Biodiversity Forum.

 

 

Item 16: Kilkee Waterworld refurbishment.

Report from Jason Murphy, A/Director of Rural Development and Ukrainian Services was circulated with the agenda.   The report provided an overview of the Kilkee Waterworld Refurbishment project.  The report states that the overall project has two phases, 1) the installation of new boilers and air handling units and 2) upgrade of building fabric, windows, lights and refurbishment and repurposing of existing internal spaces.  The entire works package has been costed at €1.165m.  The detailed plans for Phase 1 of the project have been put out to tender on 20^th June.

To date, the Manager has sought and secured €433k to contribute to the project from the Community Recognition Fund, philanthropic contribution and own funds.  This leaves the board with a shortfall of €750,000 to deliver phase 1 and phase 2 of the project.  Kilkee Water World board continue to pursue funding sources to complete the second phase of works to the facility.

At this stage the board of Kilkee Waterworld are requesting Clare County Council under Section 66 of the Local Government Act 2001 Promotion of interests of local community, to approve project bridge finance for phase 1 of the project. 

Bridging finance to fund support delivery of the first phase of the project to upgrade Kilkee Waterworld, replacement of the boilers and air handling units until the various funding elements are claimed is required up to the €550k project value.  Bridge finance will be agreed by formal agreement and board approval.

Ar moladh Cllr. I. Lynch
Cuidithe ag Cllr. S. Talty agus glacadh leis

“In accordance with Section 66 of the Local Government Act 2001, Promotion of interests of local community, the approval of Council is sought for €550,000 bridge finance for the term of phase 1 of the project to upgrade Kilkee Waterworld.”

The elected members commended the Board and Management of Kilkee Waterworld and agreed that ongoing support and co-operation is essential in order to maintain these important community facilities.  It was also felt that support from Clare County Council for these bodies must continue on a more permanent arrangement.

 

Item 17: Ratification of the Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for Glor Music DAC for financial year ended 31^st December 2022.

Report dated 4^th July, 2023 from Anne Haugh, Director of Social Development was circulated with the agenda together with the Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for Glór Music DAC for the year ended 31^st December, 2022, as approved by the Board of Directors at its AGM on 27^th June, 2023.

The report states that as Clare County Council has 100% shareholding in the company, the attached report is presented to the elected members in accordance with Section 391 of the Companies Act, 2014.   The report continued that Clare County Council is represented on the Board of Glór by Cllr. M. Howard and Cllr. L. Grant and two members of the Executive, currently Anne Haugh, Director of Service and Helen Walsh, County Librarian.

The report as presented was noted by the members present having been proposed by Cllr. M. Howard and seconded by Cllr. S. Talty.

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard
Cuidithe ag Cllr. S. Talty agus glacadh leis

 

Item 18: Recommendation for award of a Civic Reception to Newmarket Celtic FC.

Report dated 4^th July, 2023 from Ann Reynolds, Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Services was circulated with the agenda.   The report states that at the July meeting of the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) the members considered a nomination for a Civic Reception to honour Newmarket Celtic FC from Cllr. P. McMahon.  The nomination was made to the CPG in accordance with Standing Order Number 72.  Details of Newmarket Celtic FC achievements were outlined in the report.

The elected members approved the nomination for a Civic Reception to honour Newmarket Celtic FC having been proposed by Cllr. D. McGettigan, seconded by Cllr. P. Hayes and agreed by the members present.

Ar moladh Cllr. D. McGettigan
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Hayes agus glacadh leis

 

 

Item 19: General burial ground insurance cover.

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Begley
Cuidithe ag Cllr. J. Garrihy agus glacadh leis

"I am requesting Clare County Council to extend its general burial ground Insurance cover to include new community operated burial grounds." (M)

Mr. Jason Murphy, A/Director of Rural Development and Ukrainian Services replied as follows:

“Clare County Council does not currently have oversight or management involvement in the activities of community Burial Grounds apart from providing advice and grant supports through the local area grant scheme or in the case of statutory extraordinary events such as exhumations which require a licence from the Council. As such, the Council does not currently provide insurance cover for community burial grounds and it is recognised that the communities themselves develop, maintain and operate these facilities, often using the funds from plot sales to fund the insurance.

Insurance of community-run Burial Grounds would require oversight, inspection and a follow-up maintenance regime which would place an additional onerous obligation and potential significant liability on the Council given the nature of activity involved and, in particular, the risks associated with grave-digging. As the Council has no enforcement powers outside of its own Burial Grounds, it would be difficult to ensure compliance with issues identified as part of any potential inspection process.

Clare County Council has over 30 operational burial grounds along with over 100 historical/non-revenue generating burial grounds and we continue to prioritise the management of these facilities. We will work with community groups through our Burial Ground team and the Rural and Community Development Officers structure to work with and assist community groups in their projects.”

The elected members expressed disappointment with the reply and emphasized that the logic of the motion was in line with the manner in which Clare County Council dealt with insurance cover for playgrounds.  The elected members requested that the grants available for communities for maintenance, purchase, development and insurance of burial grounds be reviewed with a view to enhancing what is available at the moment. 

P. Dowling, Chief Executive noted the members comments and stated that as a local authority we have a civic duty to ensure what we have well managed and well maintained burial grounds across the county and facilitate local communities.  Mr. Dowling noted that there is a resource issue and felt that this warrants investigation and should be reverted to at budget time.  Mr. Dowling acknowledged the key role played by volunteers and undertook to review the Councils involvement into the future.

 

 

Item 20: Official image of St. Brigid.

Ar moladh Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy
Cuidithe ag Cllrs. A. Norton, D. McGettigan agus M. Howard agus glacadh leis

“That Clare County Council communicate with both the Taoiseach’s office and the office of the Minister for Arts and Culture, to lend support to the application made in July 2022 by Ennis and County Clare Soroptimist International, to have the stained-glass image of St Brigid created by a prominent County Clare female artist, Catherine O’Brien, adopted as the official image of the saint in the context of our new St Brigid’s Day public holiday, which commenced 1st February 2023;

that this Motion as adopted be communicated to all Local Authorities in Ireland.”  (M)

The elected members acknowledged the attendance of the members from Ennis Soroptimists who were present in the public gallery.

It was noted that Catherine O’Brien was born in County Clare.  She was one of several female artists who excelled at the art of stained glass in the first half of the twentieth century.  In this stained-glass image, artist Catherine O’Brien depicts Brigid as strong, compassionate and thoughtful, holding the perpetual flame of her Kildare abbey and a scroll that indicates learning.  The elected members extended support to the application to have this stained-glass image of St. Brigid adopted as the official image of St. Brigid.

 

As Cllr. G. Keating was attending to duties in his capacity as Leas Cathaoirleach it was agreed that item No 21 would be taken on his return.

 

Item 22: Dialysis machine at Ennis General Hospital.

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly
Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan agus glacadh leis

"I request Clare County Council to make contact with both the HSE and the Department of Health with a view to accommodating Co. Clare patients by providing a dialysis machine at Ennis General Hospital in the near future".   (M)

The elected members noted that many patients from Clare travel to Limerick several times during the week to access dialysis treatment and agreed that this service should be available in Ennis General Hospital.  Cllr. C. Murphy undertook to raise this issue at the next Regional Health Forum West meeting.

 

 

Item 23: Construction of suitable homes for people with acquired brain injury and other disabilities.

Ar moladh Cllr. G. Flynn
Cuidithe ag Cllr. D. McGettigan agus glacadh leis

“I am calling on the Chief Executive Officer of Clare County Council Pat Dowling and the Director of Social Development Anne Haugh to prioritise the construction of suitable homes to be developed in County Clare by our housing department for people with Acquired Brain Injury and other Disabilities. Having recently met with the Head of Services in Clare for Acquired Brain Injury I was requested to highlight the need for small and specifically constructed housing for many people that want their own independent homes.”  (M)

Anne Haugh, Director of Social Development replied as follows:

“In accordance with the recently launched National Housing Strategy for Disabled People 2022-2027 Implementation Plan, Clare County Council continues to regularly monitor the no. of persons on our qualified social housing list identifying with a disability and we continue to consider and make provision for those with disabled needs as part of our design of new Local Authority housing developments.

In Q1 2023 alone this council allocated 12 housing units, from a total of 43 units, to those with Disabled needs, representing 28% of our overall allocations. 8 no. of these units were allocated to those with a Physical Disability, 2 no. with an Intellectual Disability & 2 no. with a Sensory Disability.

This Council have in the past supported the development of units in Clare for Acquired Brain Injuries through Anvers Housing Association and we are currently in the process of directly developing a scheme for Acquired Brain Injuries in Clarecastle which shall provide 5 no. units of accommodation in 2023.

Clare County Council continues to play a leading role in our local Housing & Disability Steering Group supported by the HSE, Disability Support Groups together with those of a lived experience of disabilities in providing housing together with the necessary supports to those with disabled needs and are grateful for the continued engagement of Disability Support Groups and those individuals living with disabilities.”

The elected members acknowledged the work being carried out by staff in the housing department and agreed that every effort should be made to continue to provide units in every town and village so that people with acquired brain injury and disabilities can be supported and engage in society.  It was felt that adequate provision should be included at planning stage of every housing scheme to accommodate people with acquired brain injury and disabilities as well as family carers and families with dependent adults.

 

 

Item 24: Property tax exemption.

Due to the absence of Cllr. P.J. Kelly it was agreed that this item be deferred to the September Council meeting.

"That the Government be requested to exempt first time homeowners from property tax for a period of seven years." (M)

 

 

Item 25: Cycle to work scheme.

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Murphy
Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan agus glacadh leis

"That Clare County Council actively promote the "Cycle to Work" scheme amongst its employees and the wider population of the county. There are many positives to the scheme and a new campaign creating more awareness may increase more participation".  (M)

Carol Hands, Employee Welfare Officer replied as follows:

“The Cycle to Work Scheme will be promoted to all staff through Employee Welfare, Human Resources. An e-mail will circulate with full details of how to apply to use this very beneficial opportunity.”

The following amendment signed by Cllrs. P. Murphy, J. Flynn and M. Howard was submitted.

“That Clare County Council actively promote the “Cycle to Work” scheme amongst its employees and the wider population of the county, and that a Pilot “Bike Rental Scheme” is prioritised for at least one of our main urban centres.”

This amendment was agreed by the members present.

The elected members agreed that traffic congestion in Ennis could be alleviated if more people cycled around the town.  It was felt that there is a need to promote park and ride schemes and also make people aware of bike rental scheme.  It was also felt that health and safety should be prioritized when cycling and that it should be mandatory for cyclists to wear a helmet.  It was noted that a bike rental scheme exists in Shannon whereby bicycles can be rented for the period required and that this has been sponsored through GMA funding.

 

 

Item 26: Funding for grass verge trimming on all roads.

Ar moladh Cllr. P.J. Ryan
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Hayes agus glacadh leis

“That this council request Minister for Local Government, Darragh O'Brien increase the funding available for grass verge trimming on all roads in the county.”  (M)

The elected members stated that they are being contacted by concerned constituents in relation to the hazardous conditions on roads and junctions due to high vegetation growth.  It was felt that this is a health and safety issue and the members agreed that additional funding is needed to deal with this.  Restrictions on cutting vegetation were noted and it was felt that there should be no closed season where health and safety matters arise. 

 

Item 27: Local medical centres.

Ar moladh Cllr. P. McMahon
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Daly agus glacadh leis

“That Clare County Council call on the HSE to provide local medical centres in strategic towns and villages throughout County Clare.”  (M)

The elected members noted that there are currently 2,500 GP’s in Ireland and 500 of these are due to retire.  The members discussed the impact this shortage of GP’s has on communities and felt it is one of the main reasons the A & E Department in UHL is so busy. 

The members agreed that medical centres should be available throughout the county as they provide many treatments and therapies.  The members also agreed that rural areas should be promoted as attractive locations for doctors to live in and operate their practice due to the quality of life on offer. 

Ann Reynolds, Meetings Administrator informed the members that the HSE has requested to brief the elected members and provided the option for an individual briefing in July or wait until the September Council meeting.  The members agreed that the briefing be arranged to take place in advance of the September meeting.

 

 

Item 28: Wind Energy Guidelines.

Ar moladh Cllr. C. Murphy
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Hayes agus glacadh leis

“Given the very difficult situations facing many local communities due to the absence of updated guidelines that are of relevance for proposed new wind farm developments, to ask the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he intends to publish the updated Wind Energy Guidelines.” (M)

The elected members felt that it is negligent by Government not to publish policy and guidelines in relation to wind energy and agreed that realistic guidelines should be available in order to provide clarity for developers and communities.  The members discussed the anxiety and nervousness being experienced by communities.  The members noted that the Council was prohibited from making amendments to wind energy in the County Development Plan and agreed that the Council needs to make strong representations to get guidelines published without further delay.

 

 

It was proposed by Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy, seconded by Cllr. M. Begley and agreed by the members present that the meeting be extended until 6.30 p.m. in order to complete the items on the agenda.

Item 21: Schedule of Municipal District works.

Ar moladh Cllr. G. Keating
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Hayes agus glacadh leis

“While acknowledging the schedule of Municipal District works and the related roads programme, I am now proposing a more comprehensive review of the roads network.

(a)   That a time be set aside for engineers, overseers and general workers to examine our road network and to prepare a report and a plan in which to improve the road surface for the safety of our road users.

(b)   To carry out any maintenance regarding gullies, grass cutting of the margins and hedge cutting where necessary in the interest of health and safety during the remainder of the holiday season

(c)   Due to climate change and recent weather patterns that Clare County Council now prepare a programme of works for our rural roads in advance of 2024.

There is a significant waiting list for local improvement schemes (L.I.S.) and Community Involvement Schemes (C.I.S.) and the Council needs to establish what additional investment is required to clear these waiting lists and not to rely entirely on national Government grants as the mechanism to clear the waiting list.”  (M)

Anne O’Sullivan, A/Senior Engineer, Physical Development replied as follows:

“Clare County Council is required to monitor and quantify the condition of the public road network through regular measurement and recording of the Pavement Surface Condition Index (PSCI). This methodical review of the road network is carried out with pavement condition rating surveys being completed by the Municipal District engineers & technicians every two years on all regional roads, local primary & local secondary and every 5 years for local tertiary roads. These surveys are used to inform & support the Multi Annual Programmes which are submitted to the Department of Transport and the annual Roads Restoration Improvement Programme and the annual Restoration Maintenance Programme. In 2023 surveys are underway on a considerable part of the road network to update the PSCIs.

Routine maintenance is ongoing in the Municipal Districts on the road network; this includes the maintenance of road drainage which is critical in the protection of the integrity of the road network.  As the impact of climate change has become more apparent on the road network the department introduced a Climate Change Adaptation & Resilience grant.   Funding applications are prepared annually and the works delivered under this grant mitigate against damage to the road network from severe weather.

In order to protect the road network there should be restoration interventions on 10% of the road network annually; ideally 5% of the road network should be surface dressed and 5% strengthened annually.  It is acknowledged that there is gap in funding levels to maintain this level of service.  It is estimated that 5.7% of the road network will be strengthened or surface dressed as identified in the Schedule of Municipal District Works 2023.

With respect to Local Improvement Schemes the estimated grant funding required to clear the backlog of applications is approximately €6-7m. The Council will be inviting new applications under the LIS in the coming weeks.       

The estimated grant funding required to clear the backlog of applications for Community Involvement Schemes is approximately €900k - €1m. A further 18 applications under the CIS have been received following a recent call for new applications. These are currently being assessed to determine eligibility.

The Road and Transportation Section will commit to continue engaging with the Department of Transport with a view to the provision of additional funding for the road network, it should be cautioned however the ability to deliver works in any given year is limited by the availability of resources in the Municipal Districts and ability of the market to deliver.”

The elected members agreed that extra funding is urgently required in order to manage the maintenance of our roads.  Some members felt that the existing LIS applications should be dealt with before accepting additional applications.   The members requested a breakdown by municipal district of the roads on the LIS scheme and felt that there should be positive discrimination against rural areas who cannot access active travel funding.

P. Dowling, Chief Executive stated that this remains a constant challenge as Clare County Council do not have sufficient funding to service the entire network of roads in the county.   Mr. Dowling stated that the level of funding for roads has dropped in 10-15 years and that local and rural roads are deteriorating.  Mr. Dowling agreed that this is a dynamic situation and that getting more resources is a priority.

S. McNulty, A/Director of Physical Development addressed the meeting and stated that an additional €1m has been allocated to Clare County Council for restoration improvement works and that Department of Transport has advised that should a local authority be in a position to carry out further additional works beyond the amount allocated, and if further funding were to be made available, they should liaise with their Departmental Inspector as soon as possible.

Ms. McNulty advised that the majority of the LIS are in the West Clare Municipal District and that work has been carried out on the LIS applications in the other Municipal Districts.  Ms. McNulty confirmed that a final decision to re-open the LIS has not been made to date. 

Referring to the CIS, Ms. McNulty stated that a 10% contribution is required from the community and noted the constraints in relation to resources and the industry available and she felt there is a need to look at a 3-5 year plan to deliver on these projects.

 

Item 29: Retrofit scheme for older buildings.

Ar moladh Cllr. J. Garrihy
Cuidithe ag Cllrs. C. Murphy, G. Keating agus J. Killeen agus glacadh leis

“In context of the very positive Croi Conaithe incentive scheme to bring old / vacant & derelict properties back into use for long term occupancy and the extensive expressions of interest in the initiative across county Clare and nationally we call on the Ministers of Environment & Housing to focus a specific retrofit scheme with clear guidelines & criteria on older buildings & stone cottages with a view to ensuring ease of access to SEAI funding with the objective of best possible outcomes & energy efficient homes resulting.” (M) 

The elected members welcomed the inspirational Croi Conaithe scheme and noted that 140 applications are being processed and assessed to renovate derelict and unused houses in towns and villages.  The members expressed disappointment that the SEAI system is not working in conjunction with the Croi Conaithe scheme and felt that this situation should be reviewed to enable the two schemes to work together in order to provide maximum benefit to applicants who wish to get houses retrofitted and finished to a high standard.   The members felt that this is an important initiative for rural Ireland in terms of housing and there needs to be a focus on investment in bringing houses back to habitable status which will in turn support community life by helping schools, sporting clubs and enhancing rural towns and villages.

 

 

Item 30: Clare Youth Mental Health Service.

Ar moladh Cllr. D. McGettigan
Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

“I am calling on the Minister for mental health to invest in more resources and room capacity for Clare Youth Mental Health service as the service is facing a crisis.

The shortage of clinical space of which Clare only has 5 is leading to a crisis where 88% of staff have said that they will be seeking alternative employment in the coming year.

94% felt that CAMHs clinical environment is not suitable for the support of young people and is putting children supported by this service at risk.

We need intervention in Clare now before this service collapses.”  (M)

The elected members expressed concern that children are being impacted by failure in the mental health service.  Figures outlined which were taken from an internal survey with a 70% respond rate demonstrated that 94% felt that Clare CAMHS clinical environment is not suitable for the support of young people.

It was also noted that they have 5 rooms and in March 2023 on 9 occasions no appointments were offered by a clinician due to non-availability of a clinical room.  Staff morale is at an all-time low with 94% of respondents stating it was poor or very poor. 

The members agreed that immediate intervention is needed for the continuation of this vital important service.

Cllr. C. Murphy undertook to raise this at the next Regional Health Forum West meeting.

 

Conferences.

Reports on Seminars/Conferences attended.

With regard to seminars/conferences attended, reports completed in accordance with Section 142 of the Local Government Act 2001 were made available at the meeting.

AILG Elected Members Module 2 Training entitled “Local Authority Climate Action Plans – Building Sustainable Communities” being held in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford on 23^rd March, 2023.

The Meetings Administrator informed the Members that the estimated average cost per Councillor attending this Conference was €513.82 including conference fee of €80.

It was agreed that Cllr. A. Norton attend this Conference.

 

Grow Remote Conference taking place in Portlaoise, Co. Laois on 8^th June, 2023

The Meetings Administrator informed the Members that the estimated average cost per Councillor attending this Conference was €412.58.

It was agreed that Cllr. C. Murphy attend this Conference.

 

AILG Elected Members Module 3 Training entitled “Overview of existing Planning Legislation and Policy Guidance” being held in Avalon House Hotel, Castlecomber, Co. Kilkenny on 17^th June, 2023.

The Meetings Administrator informed the Members that the estimated average cost per Councillor attending this Conference was €438.91 including conference fee of €80.

It was agreed that Cllrs. G. Keating, P.J. Kelly, P. McMahon, C. Colleran Molloy and M. Howard attend this Conference.

AILG Elected Members Module 3 Training entitled “Overview of existing Planning Legislation and Policy Guidance” being held in Mullingar Park Hotel, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath on 15^th June, 2023.

The Meetings Administrator informed the Members that the estimated average cost per Councillor attending this Conference was €438.91 including conference fee of €80.

It was agreed that Cllr. J. Cooney attend this Conference.

Conclusion

Cathaoirleach, Cllr. J. Cooney thanked everyone for their co-operation and wished them well for the summer break.

The meeting then concluded.

Signed: ____________________________
Riarthóir Cruinnithe

Signed: _____________________________
Cathaoirleach

Date:               _____________________________

Page last reviewed: 11/09/22

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