CHOMHAIRLE CHONTAE NA GAILLIMHE MINUTES OF MONTHLY MEETING .... (a) Minutes of... · CHOMHAIRLE...

Minutes of November Monthly Meeting held on 11th November 2015

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CHOMHAIRLE CHONTAE NA GAILLIMHE

MINUTES OF MONTHLY MEETING OF GALWAY COUNTY COUNCIL HELD AT ÁRAS AN

CHONTAE, ON WEDNESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER, 2015 AT 11.00 A.M.

CATHAOIRLEACH: Cllr. P. Roche

Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway

I LATHAIR FREISIN:

Baill: Cllrs. T. Broderick, D. Burke, J. Byrne, N. Byrne,

S. Canney, J. Charity, D. Connolly, M. Connolly,

G. Cronnelly, Comh. S. Ó Cualáín, Cllrs. J.

Cuddy, S. Cunniffe, Comh. T. Ó Curraoin, Cllrs. S.

Donnellan, A. Donohue, M. Fahy, P. Feeney, G.

Finnerty, M. Finnerty, T. Healy, M. Hoade, P.

Hynes, D. Joyce, F. Kearney, P. Keaveney, D.

Killilea, M. Kinane, M. Maher, E. Mannion, J.

McClearn, K. McHugh, T. McHugh, M. Noone, A.

Rabbitte, N. Thomas, Comh S. Ó Tuairisg, Cllrs.

S. Walsh, T. Welby

Oifigigh: Mr. K. Kelly, Chief Executive (Interim); Messrs. J.

Cullen, L. Gavin, P. Gavican, Directors of

Services; Ms. C. McConnell, Acting Director of

Service; Mr. G. Mullarkey, Head of Finance; Mr.

M. Owens, County Secretary & Meetings

Administrator; Ms. S. Kennedy, Senior Executive

Planner; Ms. V. Loughnane, Senior Planner; Ms.

E. Keaveney, Administrative Officer; Ms. M.

Donohue, Senior Staff Officer; Mr. B. Dunne,

Ms. G. Kavanagh, Assistant Planners; Ms. S.

Dillon, Assistant Staff Officer; An tUas. P.

O’Neachtain, Oifigeach Gaeilge; Ms. R. O’Boyle

& Ms. G. Healy, Staff Officers.

Thosnaigh an cruinniú leis an paidir.


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RESOLUTIONS OF SYMPATHY 2076

Cllr. Hoade proposed that a vote of sympathy be extended to the family of Mr. Gerard Scully

who had died tragically in a road traffic accident in South Hedland, Australia on Sunday 1st

November, 2015. Cllr. Charity also extended his condolences to the family, stating that

Gerard had been a classmate of his in Presentation College, Headford and that his untimely

passing at the age of 31 years was a tragedy for his family and all those who knew him.

Cllr. Welby proposed that a vote of sympathy be extended to the family of Mrs. Joan

Conneely (nee O’Connor) who died tragically in a house fire at her home in Camp Street,

Oughterard on Wednesday, 4th November 2015.

The Cathaoirleach proposed that a vote of sympathy be extended to the family of Mrs. Nora

Wilson (nee Dolan) who died tragically following a fire at her home in Brierfield, Moylough,

Co. Galway on Monday, 26th October 2015.

A resolution of sympathy was also extended to the following:

Mrs. Mary Moylan & family, Ardrahan, Co. Galway

Mrs. Margaret McCormack & family, Cregclare, Ardrahan, Co. Galway

Mr. Timmy Walsh, Oldtort, Portumna, Co. Galway

Mr. Paddy & Dolores Kilgarriff, Mayfield House, Dunmore, Tuam, Co. Galway

Ms. Emily Hartigan, The Links, Ballymoneen Road, Knocknacarra, Galway

Cllr. Healy extended a vote of congratulations to the Clifden Junior Football Team on

winning the County Final and he wished them success in the Connacht Final taking place on

Saturday 14th November, 2015.

Comh. Ó Tuairisg congratulated An t-Úas Páid Ó Neachtain, Oifigeach Gaeilge, whose group

won three awards at the Oireachtas National Finals which took place over the October Bank

Holiday Weekend - 1st Place in the Sketch competition; 1st Place in the Agallamh Beirte and

2nd place in the Luibín competition. He said these are very prestigious awards and he

commended Páid on being an excellent role model for young people in the area.

Comh. Ó Cualáin, Ó Curraoin and Cllr. D. Connolly also extended their congratulations to

Páid Ó Neachtain on his achievements at the Oireachtas Final.

The Cathaoirleach extended his congratulations to the Abbeyknockmoy Intermediate

Hurling Team who won the County Final on 31st October, 2015 and went on to defeat Four

Roads in the Connacht final on 7th November, 2015. He wished them luck in the quarter

final against Robert Emmet’s taking place in London on Saturday 21st November, 2015.


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CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS 2077

The Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of the Council held on 19th October, 2015 were

approved by the Council and signed by the Cathaoirleach, on the proposal of Cllr. Fahy,

seconded by Cllr. Maher.

Arising from the Minutes, Cllr. Fahy made the following proposal “that the Members of

Parliament representing the Connachtt/Ulster constituency be invited to attend a

forthcoming Meeting of the Plenary Council for a question and answer session regarding

issues of concern to County Galway and the West of Ireland”. This proposal was seconded

by Cllr. M. Connolly, and agreed.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS 2078 The Report of the Roads, Transportation & Marine Strategic Policy Committee Meeting held on 1st September, 2015 was approved by the Council on the proposal of Comh. Ó Cualáin, seconded by Cllr. Maher. Matters Arising from the Report Cllr. McClearn referred to the recommendation which had been put forward by the Roads, Transportation & Marine Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) at the September Meeting in relation to pay parking, which was not agreed by the full Council. He said that the role of the SPC is brought into question when their recommendations are not taken on board by the full Council and he felt that the Corporate Policy Group should define the role of the SPC’s. Cllr. Healy also expressed the view that the CPG should model the process of the SPC’s so as to avoid inefficiencies. Cllr. M. Connolly said that his understanding is that the role of the SPC’s is to formulate policy but he said that he does not agree that if an SPC makes a recommendation, it should be automatically agreed by full Council. Cllr. Kinane referred to the pay parking initiative which had been agreed at the September Meeting of Plenary Council, and which was discussed again at the October Meeting of Plenary Council and passed on to the Municipal District Councils for consideration of in the context of advancing the necessary bye-laws to implement the initiative. She said that she does not believe that this is a matter for the Municipal District and should rest with the Plenary Council and the Executive.


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Cllr. G. Cronnelly expressed the view that the pay parking initiative as agreed by the Plenary Council should proceed. In reply to Cllr. D. Connolly regarding the Athlone-Galway section of the Dublin-Galway Greenway Project, the Chief Executive said that this is not a Galway County Council Project. He said that in light of the discontent expressed by landowners regarding the proposal, the Minister for Transport, Sport and Tourism requested a report on the matter, following which it was indicated that the project had been paused. He said that he is not aware of any work ongoing at present in relation to this project. TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 ON THE DISPOSAL OF 0.0213 HECTARES OF LAND AT NO. 20 PÁIRC NA HABHANN, ATHENRY, CO. GALWAY. 2079 [Statutory Notice dated 21st October, 2015 and Report dated 27th October, 2015 were already circulated to each Member in accordance with the statutory timeframe.] On the proposal of Cllr. Feeney, seconded by Cllr. T. McHugh, the disposal of 0.0213

hectares of land at No. 20 Páirc na hAbhann, Athenry, Co. Galway, as outlined in the Report,

was agreed.

TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 ON THE DISPOSAL OF 0.0216 HECTARES OF LAND AT NO. 22 PÁIRC NA HABHANN, ATHENRY, CO. GALWAY. 2080 [Statutory Notice and Report dated 27th October, 2015 were already circulated to each Member in accordance with the statutory timeframe.] On the proposal of Cllr. Feeney, seconded by Cllr. Maher, the disposal of 0.0216 hectares of

land at No. 22 Páirc na hAbhann, Athenry, Co. Galway, as outlined in the Report, was

agreed.

TO CONSIDER REPORT UNDER SECTION 183 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 ON THE DISPOSAL OF 0.0208 HECTARES OF LAND AT NO. 61 PÁIRC NA HABHANN, ATHENRY, CO. GALWAY. 2081 [Statutory Notice dated 21st October, 2015 and Report dated 27th October, 2015 were already circulated to each Member in accordance with the statutory timeframe.]

On the proposal of Cllr. Feeney, seconded by Cllr. Maher, the disposal of 0.0208 hectares of

land at No. 61 Páirc na hAbhann, Athenry, Co. Galway, as outlined in the Report, was

agreed.


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TO CONSIDER THE NOTICE OF INTENT TO ISSUE A MINISTERIAL DIRECTION - HEADFORD

LOCAL AREA PLAN 2015 - 2021. 2082

[Report dated 20th October, 2015 was already made available to the Members on the extranet]

Cllr. Hoade confirmed to the Meeting that the relevant Guidelines and views of the

Department of Environment, Community & Local Government and the Minister were

considered when adopting the Headford Local Area Plan (LAP) but specific history and

circumstances warranted the approach which was taken. She advised that the Plan had

been written in a way to ensure that any population increase cannot exceed the limits and

the additional zoning is not considered excessive.

Cllr. Hoade explained that the Material Alterations for residential development are of

limited size; all have access to water and sewerage services; were previously zoned in the

preceding Local Area Plan and are immediately adjacent to existing zoning.

Cllr. Hoade explained that in respect of the Material Alterations for commercial zoning, all

areas were previously zoned in the preceding LAP and all have access to water and

sewerage services.

Cllr. Hoade requested clarification on the wording of the newspaper notice. In reply, the

Chief Executive stated that the public notice in newspaper was considered to be satisfactory

and that no individual was adversely impacted by the omission of the word ‘Draft’ in the

heading as within the Advert there was a number of references to the word ‘Draft’ and/or

‘Notice of Intention’.

Cllr. Killilea advised the Meeting that as Cathaoirleach of the Tuam Municipal District (MD),

he felt that the Tuam MD Elected Members were being penalised by the Department and

that the Elected Members had adopted a Plan and made the decision for and on behalf of

the people of Headford.

Cllr. Killilea made a suggestion that Mr. P. Coffey, Minister of State at the Department of the

Environment with Special Responsibility for Housing, Planning and Coordination of the of

the Construction 2020 Strategy , be requested to set aside his Ministerial Direction.

Cllr. T. McHugh raised concerns that Headford is described as a village in the Local Area Plan

and suggested that the Department might not know that Headford is effectively a County

Town, with two modern retail units, schools, sporting facilities, attractive house prices and

only 20 minutes drive from Galway City. He also stated that he had no reservation as to the

decisions made by the Elected Members as the lands zoned are within a 10 minute walk of

Headford town centre and the lands are not within a flood risk area.


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Cllr. Joyce concurred with Cllr. Hoade and Cllr. T. McHugh and felt that they had devised a

good Local Area Plan for the people of Headford and expressed his wish that the Minister

and the Department officials be invited to visit Headford.

Comh. O’ Curraoin concurred with Cllr. Joyce.

The Cathaoirleach supported the previous speakers and noted their comments.

Cllr. Cuddy agreed with the previous speakers and expressed concern that officials in Dublin

were making decisions for the people in the County of Galway.

Cllr K. McHugh also agreed with the previous speakers. She said that the bureaucracy must

end and desk top studies must cease and people living outside the area should not dictate

to local people.

Cllr. Charity requested the Chief Executive clarify how the Elected Members are to deal with

the Ministerial Direction and what happens after the report has been compiled and

submitted to the Minister.

Cllr. Welby stated that previously all Local Area Plans went to the Department of

Environment, Community & Local Government and now they would appear to be micro-

managing small local area plans.

In response to Cllr. Charity, the Chief Executive explained that a Chief Executive’s report

would be prepared and returned to the Minister at the Department of the Environment,

Community & Local Government within 4 weeks from the 12th November 2015. He

explained that this Chief Executive’s Report will outline the views of the Elected Members

and any other submissions received within the statutory timeframe on the Draft Ministerial

Direction. He said that the report will then be considered by the Minister, who has the

power to appoint an Inspector to assist in making the decision. He clarified that the

Minister has a number of options in accordance with the legislation under Section 31 (11) of

the Planning & Development Act.

In response to Cllr. Killilea, the Chief Executive also stated that he had no problem in

forward the Chief Executive’s report on the Submissions on the Draft Ministerial Direction to

the Elected Members but that there was no provision for any further comment by the

Elected Members.


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TO CONSIDER THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT ON THE SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED ON THE PORTUMNA DRAFT LOCAL AREA PLAN 2016 - 2022 AS PER SECTION 20 (3) (C) AND (D) OF THE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000 (AS AMENDED) 2083 [Report already made available to the Members on the extranet]

The Cathaoirleach invited the presentation of the Chief Executive’s Report on the

submissions received on the Portumna Draft Local Area Plan 2016-2022.

Ms. Kennedy advised the Meeting that under Section 20 of the Planning & Development Act

2000, the Members should in exercising their function consider the proper planning and

sustainable development of the area, the statutory obligations of any local authority in the

area and any relevant policies or objectives for the time being of the Government or of any

Minister of the Government.

Ms. Kennedy stated that the Draft Portumna Local Area Plan 2015-2022 was on public

display for a period of six weeks, from Friday 31st July to Friday 11th September, 2015

(inclusive). She advised that a public consultation afternoon was held in the Portumna

Library on Wednesday 12th of August 2015 which was well attended.

Ms. Kennedy advised that a total of 22 Submissions were received within the public

consultation period on the Draft Local Area Plan, 8 from the Prescribed

Authorities/Environmental Authorities/Statutory Bodies and 14 from General Public and

Other Persons/Bodies. She advised that the Chief Executive Report issued to the Elected

Members on the 21st October 2015.

Cllr. McClearn expressed his unhappiness and concern with the flood maps provided with

the Draft Plan. He referred to Submission No. 9 where flooding occurred in 1994/1995. He

said that he was deeply unhappy with the Chief Executive’s response as it does not conform

to the reality on the ground. He said that he did not wish that this Item on the Agenda be

proceeded with prior to the finalisation of the CFRAM maps on 1st December 2015.

In reply, Ms. McConnell advised the Meeting that the timeframe for the consideration of the

Chief Executive’s report was set out in legislation and in this case the last date that the

Members could consider the Chief Executive’s report was the 23rd November 2015. She said

that it was likely that SEA/AA screening would be required on any proposed Material

Alterations and when the timeframe to undertake this piece of work was determined; the

proposed Material Alterations would then go on public display for a period of four weeks,

following which it will be brought to the Elected Members for final approval.

Cllr. McClearn said that the flood maps were quite different to the CFRAM mapping which

was at draft stage. He said that in 2009, not one house flooded in Portumna. He referred to

the comparison of the CFRMA mapping with the mapping produced as part of the

preparation of the Plan and the anomaly between these maps.


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In reply, Ms. McConnell clarified that the CFRAM maps were not finalised and are subject to

change. She said that the Elected Members must consider the flood maps provided and the

advice given on flood risk. She explained that a precautionary approach must be undertaken

by the Planning Authority as required by the Flood Risk Management Guidelines. She said

the maps are not prepared based solely on flood events of the past but the future likely risk

of a flood event and reiterated that flood risk mitigation measures cannot be taken into

account as per the Flood Risk Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities.

Cllr. Rabbitte expressed her concern with the OPW and their failure to meet with the

Elected Members to discuss the flood maps, specifically for the areas of Headford,

Ballinasloe and Portumna. She said that the Department has so far refused the Elected

Members request. She said that the OPW are not putting forward flood mitigation

solutions for these areas which is forcing the Council to work off draft flooding maps and

being over cautious in their estimations of houses at risk of flooding, bringing in houses from

the fringes that were not affected by flooding in 2009. She said that the current local area

plan flood maps show 117 houses at risk of flooding and yet not one house flooded in

Portumna in 2009. She said that these houses will now have increased house insurance.

She expressed concern that the location of the water treatment plant and sewerage

treatment plant, which according to the flood maps, area likely to flooding, posing a serious

health risk. She said that the failure of the OPW to engage with Galway County Council is

shameful considering the risks that are posed. She asked that Ministers Harris and Kelly be

asked to take charge of the situation.

Cllr. Fahy expressed his concern regarding previous Local Area Plans adopted and areas that

were deemed to be ‘at risk of flooding’ and if these houses were flooded, would these

houses be covered by flood risk insurance.

Cllr. McClearn explained that there were fundamental issues based on the inaccuracy of the

mapping and cognisance should be taken of remedial works undertaken to alleviate flood

risk. He said that the only threat to flooding is local streams and a bridge was put down but

was not large enough to take account of flood risk. He said that the Members cannot

propose something that cannot be agreed and said that based on the flood maps, the

Members cannot support the mapping.

Cllr. Byrne queried the AA assessment undertaken for this local area plan process.

In reply, the Chief Executive advised the meeting that flooding is an aspect of all Local Area

Plans. He said the Plan is based on the best knowledge that the Planning Section have at

the moment and the Members have to make a decision, to accept or not accept the Chief

Executive’s recommendation. He said that it was considered warranted locally that there

should be a local area plan in place to facilitate development. He explained that if the

Members propose to make ‘Material Alterations’, these proposed Material Alterations


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would go on further public display following SEA/AA screenings on these proposed Material

Alterations.

Cllr. D. Connolly questioned the validity of the flood mapping and asked if a specific

objective regarding the maintenance of rivers and water courses could be included in the

local area plan. In reply, Ms. McConnell stated that it is not possible to include same.

Comh. O’Tuairisg asked if the OPW had the required qualifications to undertake the

mapping as it was placing an onus on landowners to undertake site specific Stage 3 Flood

Risk Assessments to ‘disprove’ the flooding maps.

In reply, Ms. McConnell said that it was anticipated that the CFRAM study would be finalised

prior to the adoption of this Local Area Plan, however, the CFRAM study is not yet finalised.

She explained that the CFRAM study can be considered by the Planning Authority in respect

of Local Area Plans when it is in place. She said that the CFRAM study is at public

consultation stage of the process but it is expected that there will be minimal changes

between the draft and final CFRFAM maps. Ms. McConnell explained that the flood maps

cannot be changed by the Elected Members as they are already in the public domain.

Cllr. McClearn said that the CFRAM mapping was at a draft stage and said that the

disclaimer accompanying the CFRAM maps state that they are to be used for consultation

purposes only and not to be used in a decision making process yet the Elected Members are

requested to condemn 100 houses to flood risk based on the flood maps provided. In

reply, Ms. McConnell stated that Local Area Plan flood maps were compiled using a

combination of information taken from the OPW predictive maps, the CFRAM maps and

groundtruthing carried out by Arup on site where ground topography and change in

elevations is studied and these feed into the predictive flood maps which identify the likely

areas at risk of flooding.

Cllr. Maher proposed a break so the Loughrea MD Members could further consider the Chief

Executive Reports on the Submissions received on the Draft Portumna Local Area Plan 2016-

2022.

It was agreed to adjourn the Meeting at 1.15pm in order that the Loughrea Municipal

District Members consider again the Submissions received and the Chief Executive’s

Responses and Recommendations on the Chief Executives report. The Meeting resumed at

2pm.

On resumption of the Meeting, Ms. Kennedy proceeded to present the Chief Executive’s

Report on the submissions received on the Portumna Draft Local Area Plan 2016-2022.

Submission No. 1: Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government

(Ciara Gilgunn):


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Ms. Kennedy advised that the Department of Environment, Community & Local

Government’s Submission noted that the Draft Portumna Local Area Plan 2016-2022 was

consistent with National, Regional and Local policy and was consistent with the County

Development Plan Core Strategy. She said that the Submission requested that further

clarification was required in relation to the water and sewer capacities within Portumna.

Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s recommendation is to amend Section 3.7.2

Water Framework Directive, Water Supply and Wastewater Disposal, in the Draft Plan in

order to provide clarity as follows:

“Section 3.7.2 Water Framework Directive

Water Supply

Portumna town and surrounding rural area receives its water supply from Lough Derg. The

abstracted water is treated prior to consumption at the local treatment plant through

processes of coagulation, filtration, chlorination and fluoridation. which provides potable

water that meets the requirements of the European Communities (Drinking Water)(No.2)

Regulations 2007(S.I. No.278 of 2007). the existing water treatment plant has limited

capacity and requires upgrading to meet demand levels into the future. There is sufficient

capacity at Portumna WTP to cater for future demand to 2022 and beyond. These works

will necessitate the upgrading of the inlet pipe and additional final water storage

provision at the plant. However the treatment plant is on the EPA’s Remedial Action List

2013 and is not fully functional in terms of quality of water produced. There is also a

deficit in treated water storage capacity at the treatment plant. Irish Water is proposing

an upgrade of the treatment plant for inclusion in its Capital Investment Plan 2017-2021.

Wastewater Disposal

Portumna Wastewater Treatment Plant receives foul and combined flows from an extensive

sewer network which collects discharges from the urban town area. There are a number of

pumping stations located throughout the town of Portumna which assist in delivering these

flows to the Wastewater Plant for treatment. The treatment capacity is nearing capacity

due to surface water infiltration, which is being analysed. Irish Water is proposing an

upgrade of the plant to increase capacity 3700 p.e. It is envisaged that some upgrading

works to the treatment process and the network will be required to meet future demands

of the area.

This upgrade is currently being assessed for inclusion in its Capital Investment Plan 2017-

2022.”


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The Members agreed to accept the Recommendation in the Chief Executive’s Report in

respect of Submission No. 1.

Submission No. 2: Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine (Liz McDonnell):

Ms. Kennedy advised that the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine’s Submission

stated that the Local Area Plan should not compromise the foreshore or affect the ability of

new aquaculture licences that maybe granted, and the Chief Executive noted these

comments and said the Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 3: Department of Education & Skills (George Carolan)

Ms. Kennedy said that the issues raised by the Department of Education & Skills in their

Submission was similar to previous Local Area Plans regarding site reservations to be made

close as possible to community facilities so they can be shared between the school and the

community and that the Department is open to the concept of multi-campus school

arrangements and said that the Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the

Draft Plan.



Submission No . 4: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (Cian O’Mahoney)

Ms. Kennedy advised that the EPA raised a number of issues in their Submission suggesting

that a map be included in the Local Area Plan illustrating the National and EU designated

sites and an overlay map showing proposed zoning/dezoning/development areas relative to

the findings of the flood risk assessment and suggested that there should be a commitment

to carrying out a Green Infrastructure Strategy within the lifetime of the plan. Ms. Kennedy

advised that the Chief Executive’s recommendation was to insert a new policy in Section

3.10 as follows:

“Section 3.10


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Policy NH2: Green Infrastructure Strategy

The Council shall commence the preparation of a Green Infrastructure Strategy within the

lifetime of the plan as resources permit.”



Submission No. 5: Transport Infrastructure Authority (Michael McCormack)

Ms. Kennedy advised that the TIA welcomed the protection afforded to the national road

network in the Draft Plan and said that the Chief Executive’s recommendation was no

change to the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 6: Northern & Western Assembly (Gerry Finn)

Ms. Kennedy outlined the issues raised by the Northern & Western Assembly in their

Submission which included the following topics; Development Strategy, Residential

Development, Community Facilities, Economic Development & Tourism, Infrastructure,

SEA/NIR and delivery of the Plan. Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s

recommendation was their comments were noted but there was no change necessary to

the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 7: Irish Water (Olywn James)

Ms. Kennedy said that a lengthy submission was received from Irish Water and the

Submission noted that in relation to the Water Supply Capacity, there is available headroom

to cater for the target population and that no upgrade capacity is required but that the

Water Supply is currently in the Remedial Action List (RAL). In relation to Waste Water

Capacity and planned works, she stated that there was no available headroom to cater for


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target population and that upgrade of the system is being assessed for inclusion in the 2011-

2017 Capital Investment Plan. Ms. Kennedy said that the Chief Executive’s recommendation

was to amend text under Section 3.7.2 Water Framework Directive and Section 3.7.3 Water

Supply, Wastewater and Surface Water Policies and Objectives in the Draft Plan, as follows:

“3.7.2 Water Framework Directive

Irish Water is now responsible for the provision and operation of public water and wastewater services and provision of these services across Ireland. For decades, Local Authorities have provided water and wastewater services within the resources available to them. In order to maintain continuity of service, Irish Water has entered into Service Level Agreements (SLA) with Galway County Council for the operation of Irish Water’s assets for the next twelve years. Irish Water published a draft of its first integrated 25 Year Water Services Strategic Plan in February 2015. The Plan sets out Irish Water’s short, medium and long term objectives and strategies for the delivery of water services in Ireland. Irish Water’s Capital Investment Plan 2014-2016 which outlines the indicative Investment priorities in water services infrastructure to the end of 2016 is currently being implemented. over the coming years. The Their Capital Investment Plan is currently being prepared and projects and programmes requiring investment are being proposed and assessed for inclusion in the investment plan. consists of a targeted programme consisting of individual projects and a range of sub-programmes, which will deliver improvements in drinking water quality, leakage, wastewater compliance, business efficiencies and customer service. Irish Water has also commenced work on a 25 Year Water Services Strategic Plan which will set out its long term strategy and objectives. The Capital Investment Plan will be adjusted as required to meet the objectives and priorities of the Water Service Strategic Plan as adopted following assessment.

The investment plan must balance investment in quality, service level,

environmental compliance and catering for future growth. Irish Water’s Investment

budget is subject to approval by the Commission for Energy Regulation. The funding

of additional capacity in water and wastewater networks to support population

and economic growth will be subject to Irish Water’s Capital Investment Plans,

Connections Charging Policy and Irish Water’s Policy for Network Extension and

Reinforcement to Cater for Growth.

Water Supply

Portumna town and surrounding rural area receives its water supply from Lough

Derg. The abstracted water is treated prior to consumption at the local treatment

plant through processes of coagulation, filtration, chlorination and fluoridation.

which provides potable water that meets the requirements of the European

Communities (Drinking Water)(No.2) Regulations 2007(S.I. No.278 of 2007). the

existing water treatment plant has limited capacity and requires upgrading to meet


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demand levels into the future. There is sufficient capacity at Portumna WTP to

cater for future demand to 2022 and beyond. These works will necessitate the

upgrading of the inlet pipe and additional final water storage provision at the

plant. However the treatment plant is on the EPA’s Remedial Action List 2013 and

is not fully functional in terms of quality of water produced. There is also a deficit in

treated water storage capacity at the treatment plant. Irish Water is proposing an

upgrade of the treatment plant for inclusion in its Capital Investment Plan 2017-

2021.

Wastewater Disposal

Portumna Wastewater Treatment Plant receives foul and combined flows from an

extensive sewer network which collects discharges from the urban town area. There

are a number of pumping stations located throughout the town of Portumna which

assist in delivering these flows to the Wastewater Plant for treatment. The treatment

capacity is nearing capacity due to surface water infiltration, which is being

analysed. Irish Water is proposing an upgrade of the plant to increase capacity

3700 p.e. It is envisaged that some upgrading works to the treatment process and

the network will be required to meet future demands of the area.This upgrade is

currently being assessed for inclusion in its Capital Investment Plan 2017-2021.”

“3.7.3 Water Supply, Wastewater and Surface Water Policies and Objectives

Policy UI 1 – Water Supply, Wastewater And Surface Water Infrastructure

Support Irish Water in the provision and maintenance of adequate wastewater

disposal and water supply and the maintenance of the existing combined (sewage

and surface water) surface water drainage infrastructure, in accordance with EU

Directives, to service Portumna. This will include satisfactory capacity for public

wastewater and a satisfactory quantity and quality of water supply. Sustainable

Drainage System approaches and techniques within the plan area shall also be

supported.

Objective UI 2 – Water Supply and Water Conservation

Ensure that new developments are adequately serviced with a suitable quantity and

quality of drinking water supply, promote water conservation (leakage and demand

management) to reduce the overall level of water loss in the public supply and

require that new domestic developments provide for water supply metering.”



Submission No. 8: Offaly County Council


15 | P a g e

Ms. Kennedy said that Offaly County Council’s Submission referred to their recently

launched draft Walking & Cycling Strategy and requested that the Local Area Plan

incorporate an objective that reflects the potential to connect Portumna to West Offaly.

Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s Response was that it considered that the

Objectives contained under Section 3.5.2 of the Draft Plan namely T1 (National Road

Network) and T2 (Urban Street Network) provided appropriate measures to facilitate for

such connectivity in the event of projects of this nature being progressed and said the Chief

Executive’s recommendation was to no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 9: Mary Rourke

Ms. Kennedy advised that a map was included in Mary Rourke’s submission which identified

a plot of land and requested that these lands would be retained for the purposes of

residential use. Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s Recommendation was no

change to the Draft Plan.

Cllr. McClearn said that these subject lands should be zoned Residential Phase 2 as per the

request of the landowner and explained that there is nothing in the Plan with regard to

mitigation works at Connacht Harbour which would solve any future flood event to

Portumna.

On the proposal of Cllr. McClearn, seconded by Cllr. Maher, it was agreed to reject the

Recommendation in the Chief Executive’s Report and to zone the lands the subject of this

Submission as Residential Phase 2.

Submission No. 10: Hubert Gordon for Martin Gillane & John Keane

Ms. Kennedy advised that Hubert Gordon for Martin Gillane & John Keane’s Submission

requested that a plot of land be included within the Draft Local Area Plan boundary and

zoned Tourism. Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s Response was that the site

is considered to be isolated from and lacking in terms of connectivity infrastructure to town

centre and the rear segment of the site is identified by CFRAMs as being vulnerable to

flooding.

Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s recommendation was to amend Land Use

Zoning Map 1A and to instead rezone the currently zoned (2.8ha approximately) Residential

Phase 2 lands on St. Joesph’s Road, (across from Aldi) which would be a more appropriate

location for Tourism zoning from Residential Phase 2 to Tourism.


16 | P a g e

Cllr. Rabbitte said that the land the subject of Hubert Gordon’s submission (for Martin

Gillane & Johne Keane) is in an excellent location for tourism potential, right at the entrance

of the Forest Park.

On the proposal of Cllr. Rabbitte, seconded by Cllr. McClearn, it was agreed to reject the


Submission as Tourism and extend the Town Boundary.

Submission No. 11: McCarthy, Keville O'Sullivan for Eamon & Mary Muray

Ms. Kennedy advised that McCarthy, Keville O'Sullivan for Eamon & Mary Murray’s

Submission requested that a parcel of land along Church Road which is currently zoned

open space/recreation and amenity under the Draft Local Area Plan be rezoned to Town

Centre/Mixed Use zoning. Ms. Kennedy said that the Chief Executive’s recommendation

was no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission as Tourism.

Submission No. 12: McCarthy, Keville O'Sullivan for Annmarie Carr

Ms. Kennedy said that McCarthy, Keville O'Sullivan for Annmarie Carr’s Submission

requested that a parcel of land which had been zoned Residential phase 2 under the Draft

Local Area Plan be rezoned to Town Centre/Mixed Use and Residential Zoning as per the

2005 – 2011 Portumna Local Area Plan. Ms. Kennedy said that the Chief Executive’s

recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission as Town Centre/Mixed Use.

Submission No. 13: Michael Collins & Company Solicitors for Gary Kenny

Ms. Kennedy said the Submission from Michael Collins & Company Solicitors for Gary

Kenny related to a property along Shannon Road, and it stated that the area in the vicinity

of the site has not flooded over the lifetime of the Mr. Kenny who is 85 years of age and the

flood maps as presented are considered to be inaccurate. Ms. Kennedy said the Chief

Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.


17 | P a g e

On the proposal of Cllr. McClearn, seconded by Cllr. Rabbitte, it was agreed to ‘Note’ this

Submission and its contents.

Submission No. 14: Hubert Gordon for John Keane

Ms. Kennedy said that Hubert Gordon for John Keane’s Submission requested that a site at

Portumna Demesne/St. Joseph’s Road which has been identified as Open Space/Recreation

and Amenity in the Draft Plan be rezoned for residential purposes. Ms. Kennedy said the

Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan as the site is identified

as being flood risk.



Submission as Residential Phase 2.

Submission No. 15: Noel Conroy

Ms. Kennedy said that Noel Conroy’s Submission requested that lands currently zoned

Residential (Phase 2) in the Draft Local Area Plan should be re-zoned Residential (Phase 1).

Ms. Kennedy advised that the Chief Executive’s recommendation was to amend Land Use

Zoning Map 1A and to rezone the subject lands from Residential Phase 2 to Tourism, as per

the Chief Executive’s recommendation to Submission no.10.


Recommendation in the Chief Executive’s Report and to retain the zoning as Residential

Phase 2.

Submission No. 16: Fr. Brendan Lawless

Ms. Kennedy said that Fr. Brendan Lawless’s Submission requested that a segment of lands

owned by the parish of Portumna between St. Brendan’s Road and St. Brigid’s Road be

zoned for residential purposes as opposed to the Open Space/Recreation and Amenity

zoning that is currently included in the Draft plan. Ms. Kennedy said the Chief Executive’s

recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 17: OPC for Tony Williams & Portumna Retirement Village


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Ms. Kennedy said that the submission from OPC for Tony Williams & Portumna Retirement

Village requested that the lands currently zoned Community Facilities (CF) in the Draft Local

Area Plan 2016-2022 be rezoned to ‘Residential zoning’. Ms. Kennedy said the Chief




Submission No. 18: James O'Donnell for Ethel Doyle Clarke

Ms. Kennedy said that James O'Donnell for Ethel Doyle Clarke’s Submission has requested

that objective “RD1-Phased Residential Development” be amended to allow single house

development for non-family members on Residential Phase 2 lands. Ms. Kennedy said the

Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 19: Paul Turley

Ms. Kennedy said that Paul Turley’s Submission related to lands at Lios Na Si Fairyhill. She

said that there were two separate parcels of land; Phase 1 which has planning permission

for 25 no. houses where there are a number of houses constructed, near completion and 12

no. houses subject to initial ground works and Phase 2 where there is live planning

permission to the south of the existing estate. She said that the Submission states that the

Draft Portumna Local Area Plan 2016-2022 proposes to downzone the Phase 2 lands and a

‘Constrained Land Use’ to be applied on the lands where there is existing house/houses

under construction. She said the Submission included a Flood Risk Assessment which stated

that the residential units constructed and under construction are outside Flood zone A and

the Submission requested that the “Existing Residential” zoning would be reinstated for the

25 no. houses to allow the first phase of the estate to be completed in full. She said that the

Submission also states that the report carried out by Arup is not extensive enough and a

Stage 3 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) should be carried out by Galway County

Council.

Ms. Kennedy said the Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.

Ms. McConnell explained that the lands cannot be taken out of a flood zone by the Elected

Members. She explained that the Elected Members can exercise their function of zoning

based on the advice given to them and the flood maps provided.


19 | P a g e

On the proposal of Cllr. Rabbitte, seconded by Cllr. Burke, it was agreed to reject the

Recommendation in the Chief Executive’s Report and to removed the ‘Constrained Land

Use’ from Phase 1 lands as outlined in this Submission and to retain the ‘Existing

Residential’ zoning on the 25 houses as per the Draft Plan.

Submission No. 20: James O'Donnell for John McEntee

Ms. Kennedy said that James O'Donnell for John McEntee’s Submission has requested that

objective “RD1-Phased Residential Development” be reworded to allow single house

development for non-family members on Residential Phase 2 lands. Ms. Kennedy said the

Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.



Submission No. 21: Healy Partners for Dan Lynch

Ms. Kennedy said that Healy Partners for Dan Lynch’s Submission, which included a map,

related to lands currently zoned as “Business and Enterprise” in the Draft Portumna Local

Area Plan 2016-2022.

Ms. Kennedy said that the Submission requested that the zoning matrix would be amended

in relation to medical facilities on Business and Enterprise Lands. It is stated that in the draft

plan “medical facilities” are N (Not Normally Permitted), and it was requested that this

would be amended to P (Permitted in Principle) or O (Open for Consideration). Ms.

Kennedy said the Chief Executive’s recommendation was no change to the Draft Plan.


Recommendation in the Chief Executive’s Report and to amend the Land Use Zoning

Matrix to ‘O’ (Open for Consideration) on Business and Enterprise lands.

Submission No. 22: Phil Coleman & Timmy Walsh

Ms. Kennedy said the Submission from Phil Coleman & Timmy Walsh consisted of a sketch

unaccompanied by detailed explanatory text but it would appear to relate to flood defence

measures at the entrance to Connaught Harbour in Portumna. Ms. Kennedy said the Chief


Cllr. McClearn explained that this Local Area Plan hinges on the progress of this issue and

said that the principle theme in this Submission is the solution to prevent any future


20 | P a g e

flooding issue in Portumna. He explained that the only breach in the flood defences in

Portumna is at Connacht Harbour and progress needs to be made to install a flood gate at

this location in Portumna. He said that it was crucial that the Council engage with the OPW,

ESB International and Waterways Ireland to progress this matter and that substantial

progress is made relating to this before the next Council Meeting to discuss the proposed

Material Alterations on the Portumna Local Area Plan.

Cllr. Maher concurred with Cllr. McClearn and said that the Bodies need to work together to

progress the flood mitigation works required at Connacht Harbour.

Cllr. Rabbitt concurred and said that while the Submission may not have been the correct

format to raise such a proposal, she acknowledged that this idea could be the main solution

to prevent a future flooding issue in Portumna. She explained that the only breach which

could allow a risk to flooding in Portumna is at Connacht Harbour. She said that all the

Municipal District members want a timely solution to this issue as a flood gate installed at

this location would prevent any threat of future flooding in this area.

On the proposal of Cllr. McClearn, seconded by Cllr. Rabbitte, it was agreed to ‘Note’ this

Submission and its contents.

Cllr. J. Byrne said that the focus on the enhancement of the town should be considered and

proposed that the Land Use Zoning Matrix be amended to allow Guesthouses be Open for

Consideration on Community zoned lands.

Cllr. G. Finnerty proposed an amedment to the Land Use Zoning Matrix on Page 18 of the Draft Local Area Plan in relation to Guesthouses. Cllr. Rabbitte declared an interest in this regard and left the meeting for the duration of the consideration of this proposal.

On the proposal of Cllr. G. Finnerty, seconded by Cllr. J. Byrne, it was agreed to amend the

Land Use Zoning Matrix on Page 18 of the Draft Local Area Plan, to allow Guesthouses to

be ‘O’ (Open for Consideration) on zoned Community lands.

Cllr. Rabbitte returned to the Meeting.

Ms. McConnell advised the Meeting that the proposed changes to the Portumna Draft Local

Area Plan would require a full Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Appropriate

Assessment (AA) be undertaken on the Material Alterations. She said that when the

timeframe to undertake this piece of work was determined; a number of weeks would be

required to compile the Material Alterations which would then go on public display for a

period of four weeks, following which it would be brought to the Elected Members for final

approval.


21 | P a g e

On the proposal of Cllr. J. Byrne and seconded by Cllr. G Finnerty, it was agreed to accept

the recommendations in the Chief Executive’s Report, as amended by the Members and it

was agreed to put the agreed text amendments and Material Alterations to the Draft

Portumna Local Area Plan on display, following the determination of the time-period to

undertake the full Strategic Environmental Assessment and Appropriate Assessment on

the proposed Material Alterations.

Cllr. D. Connolly made the following proposal “Calls on the Department of Environment,

Heritage and Local Government in light of increase flood events along the River Shannon

and Suck systems because of lack of a flood maintenance plan being effectively operated

and because of flood mapping be imposed on Local Area Plans in Co. Galway and increased

experiences of the difficulty of farmers to harvest crops on the Shannon Estuary coupled

with the recent extinction of the corncrake from this area, Galway County Council calls on

the Department to prioritise and urgently enact a Shannon & Suck River Maintenance Plan.”

This proposal was seconded by Cllr. McClearn, and agreed.

TO CONSIDER AND IF DEEMED APPROPRIATE TO AUTHORISE THE ATTENDANCE AT

CONFERENCES, MEETINGS, OTHER EVENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 142(5) OF THE

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 (as amended) 2084

[Report dated 5th November, 2015 already made available to the Members on the extranet]

Cllr. McClearn asked that in light of the fact that the November Monthly Meeting of Plenary Council had been brought forward by almost two weeks, would it be possible for the Members to express their interest in attending one of the listed Conferences at today’s Meeting. Mr. Owens replied that the Council is obliged under legislation to prepare a report for the consideration of the Members listing the names of the Members wishing to attend a Conference, Seminar, Training or other Meeting or event and detailing the estimated total cost to the Council. The preparation of this report is facilitated by means of the prior submission of Expressions of Interest by the Members. He said that retrospective approval is not permitted without the prior approval of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. It was proposed by Cllr. J. Byrne, seconded by Cllr. McClearn, and agreed, that the attendance of the Member named hereunder at the Northern & Western Regional Assembly – New Regions, New Roles, New Responsibilities to be held at the Meadow Court Hotel, Loughrea, Co. Galway on 20th November 2015, be authorized:

Cllr. J. Byrne.


22 | P a g e

It was proposed by Cllr. K. McHugh, seconded by Cllr. Donohue, and agreed, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Green Foundation Ireland - ECOPRO Seminar, Sustainable Communities, Sustainable Jobs Developing the Circular Economy, to be held at Dublin City University on 28th November 2015, be authorized.

Comh. Ó Tuairisg, Cllrs. Donohue, Welby & Broderick.

It was proposed by Cllr. G. Finnerty, seconded by Comh. Ó Cualáin, and agreed, that the attendance of the Member named hereunder at the Superior Training - Housing Public Policy & Local Government, to be held at Park House Hotel, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford, on 11th - 12th December 2015, be authorized.

Cllr. Mannion. TO CONSIDER AND IF DEEMED APPROPRIATE TO AUTHORISE THE ATTENDANCE AT

TRAINING IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 142(5A) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT

2001 (as amended) 2085


It was proposed by Cllr. Maher, seconded by Cllr. Fahy, and agreed, that the attendance of the Members named hereunder at the Galway County Council - An Introduction to Office 365 to be held at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway on 2nd December, 2015, be authorized:

Comh. Ó Tuairisg, Cllrs. Broderick, Welby, M. Connolly, Hoade, Mannion, Maher & Donohue and that the attendance of Cllr. Broderick at the AILG New Regional Assemblies Structure & their Relationship with Local Authorities & Governance (Part 2) Ethics, to be held at the Red Cow Hotel, Dublin on 14th November 2015, be authorised.

TO NOTE THE SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF CONFERENCES ATTENDED IN ACCORDANCE

WITH SECTION 142(5F) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 (as amended) 2086


It was proposed by Cllr. Maher, seconded by Cllr. T. McHugh, and agreed, to note the Summaries of Proceedings of the Oughterard Courthouse – Flagship Leader Project as submitted by Cllrs. Cronnelly and Cunniffe.

It was proposed by Cllr. Mannion, seconded by Cllr. G. Finnerty, and agreed, to note the Summaries of Proceedings of the Patrick McGill Summer School & Arts Week as submitted by Cllr. M. Connolly.


23 | P a g e

It was proposed by Cllr. Maher, seconded by Cllr. D. Connolly, and agreed, to note the Summaries of Proceedings of the Conamara Descendents Gathering as submitted by Comh. Ó Cualáin.

TO CONSIDER AND IF DEEMED APPROPRIATE APPROVE AN OVERDRAFT

ACCOMMODATION FOR THE PERIOD 01/01/2016 - 31/12/2016 2087

[Report already made available to the Members on the extranet]

The Chief Executive said that although it is not anticipated that the Council will have recourse to use the overdraft facility in 2016, it is wise to retain the facility.

In reply to Cllr. Healy, Mr. Mullarkey said that the interest rate on the Council’s overdraft is the variable rate of interest charged by the bank and that access to capital borrowing requires loan approval from the Members of the Council and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government.

In reply to Cllr. Cuddy, he said that the amount of grant funding which is outstanding from Central Government varies from month to month and depends on the volume of activity in any period and that he is not aware of any capital grants outstanding at present.

In reply to Cllr. Fahy, Mr. Mullarkey said that to his knowledge all funding allocated to the

Council for 2015 will be spent and none will be returned to the Department.

Cllr. D. Connolly asked if the monies outstanding from the Department of Arts, Heritage &

the Gaeltacht in relation to improvement works carried out to Kilronan Pier and Caladh Mór

Pier between 2004 - 2009 have been received.

Mr. Mullarkey said that the Council is in discussions with the Department of Arts, Heritage &

the Gaeltacht regarding the outstanding amount payable to the Council, however he said

that when the money is received, it will go to clear the debt and will not go towards the

Council’s revenue budget.

The Chief Executive said that the Budget Book for 2016 would be completed by the end of

the following week and he informed the Members that it is difficult to draw up the budget

because of the lack of buoyancy in funding and the additional expenditure which will be

incurred by the Council in 2016 in the areas such as Economic Development, Local

Enterprise, Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) and the full costs associated with the new

fire station in An Cheathrú Rua. He said that the Council has been informed of a revision to

the valuation on utility companies which will result in a reduction of €757,000 in the rates

payable to Galway County Council by utility companies such as Gas Networks, Eircom,


24 | P a g e

Vodafone, the ESB and others. He said this reduction will have to be reflected in the Budget

2016, leaving the Council with even less to spend than anticipated.

A discussion took place regarding the loss to the Council of €757,000 resulting from the

reduction in the rateable valuation of utility companies and the Members made the

following points:

Cllrs. Cuddy, McClearn, Charity and M. Connolly expressed grave concern at the reduction in

rateable valuations of utility companies at a time when the Members are crying out for a

reduction in the rates paid by businesses who are struggling to keep afloat around the

County.

In reply to Cllrs. Welby, Charity, Comh. Ó Cualain and Comh. Ó Curraoin, the Chief Executive

said that any change to rateable valuations is disconnected from Local Government funding

and the Local Property Tax. He said that this reduction in rates is only one element of the

difficulty the Council is facing regarding the budget which has reduced from €160m in 2008

to €104m in 2015. He also said that there will be no change in the level of funding received

by the Council in 2016 from the Local Property Tax and the equalisation fund.

Cllr. Healy said that the Members should condemn the reduction in the rateable valuation of

utility companies and he made the following proposal: “We propose that this Council

strongly condemns the reduction of rates valuations of large utility companies and the

expectation that Galway County Council accept a reduction of €757,000 in its rates income”.

This proposal was seconded by Cllr. Cuddy, and agreed.

Cllr. Feeney supported Cllr. Healy in this regard and said this reduction represents a

shocking blow to the local authority and businesses. He said he would be in contact with

both the Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government and the

Department of Finance to seek compensation for the Council in order to carry the liability.

The Chief Executive said that this issue will be raised with the Department across all of the

local authority areas and although the loss to Galway County Council is high, it is not as high

as some Local Authorities.

In reply to Comh. Ó Tuairisg, the Chief Executive said that the wind-farms in Conamara have

been valued and details will be provided as part of the budget discussion. However, he said

that the increased revenue will be outweighed by the reduction in rates from utility

companies.

In reply to Cllrs. Welby, Charity and Broderick, the Chief Executive said that Irish Water is

exempt from rates.


25 | P a g e

In reply to Cllr. Hoade, the Chief Executive said that the Municipal Districts have agreed their

budgets for 2016 in respect of discretionary spending and the Council will make every effort

to minimise the effect on these budgets as a consequence of the reduction in rates from

utility companies.

In reply to Cllrs. Mannion and Kearney, the Chief Executive said that the rateable valuations

of utility companies are revised every five year, usually upwards. However, they were

revised downwards under the current revision due to global valuations.

Cllr. Kinane referred to a Notice of Motion which she had proposed at the September

Meeting of the Plenary Council that the Council generate a commercial rates credit system

to support business owners and occupier that are financially impacted by infrastructure

works and road works carried out in their area that persist for two weeks. She said that the

reply she received from the Council said that the implementation of such a scheme would

require an amendment to legislation by Government. She said that the response she

received from the office of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local

Government is at odds with the Council’s reply to her Notice of Motion. She read out an

extract from the letter she received from the Minister’s Office as follows “The Local

Government reform Act 2014, introduced a range of reforms to the local government system

and included some important measures to address some of the main issues affecting

payment of commercial rates by businesses including the provision of local discretion in

relation to vacancy refunds and the repeal of subsequent occupier liability. These

amendments are a strong indication of the Government’s commitment to removing any

barrier to enterprise development and to support business start-ups and those existing

businesses wishing to expand or relocate”. She said she would like if her Notice of Motion

could be revisited in light of the Minister’s reply that local discretion can be used in relation

to rates.

Cllr. Broderick supported Cllr. Kinane’s view and said that in light of the Minister’s reply to

Cllr. Kinane, the Council should consider tailoring rates in order to help businesses which are

struggling to survive and he said that it is important to realise that the County cannot lose

small businesses.

The Chief Executive replied that the Executive will examine the position regarding the

response to Cllr. Kinane’s Notice of Motion. However, he said that he could not support

any scheme which would lead to a further reduction in the Council’s income.

Cllr. Broderick said that he would like to be informed of the amount of local property tax,

motor tax and rates that are collected per Municipal District. The Chief Executive replied

that the Executive will provide all available information to the Members. However, he said

it is important to remember that the Council is governing the County as a whole.


26 | P a g e

Cllr. Fahy made the following proposal “We propose that Galway County Council urgently

request the Minister for Local Government, Mr. Alan Kelly T.D. and the Minister for

Transport, Mr. Pascal O’Donoghue T.D., to ensure that at least the same funding be

provided in 2016 as it was in 2015. The write down €757,000 for utilities has serious

implications for our funding for 2016”. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. M. Connolly,

and agreed.

On the proposal of Cllr. T. McHugh, seconded by Cllr. Feeney, the Members agreed to

approve an overdraft accommodation level of a minimum of €12,000,000 for the period

01/01/2016 - 31/12/2016, as outlined in the report.

TO CONSIDER THE MANAGEMENT REPORT – NOVEMBER 2015 IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 136(2) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2001 (AS AMENDED). 2088

[Report dated 5th November, 2015 was already available on the extranet]

On the proposal of Cllr. Hoade, seconded by Comh. Ó Tuairisg, the Management Report –

November 2015 was noted by the Members.

Referring to the Management Report, Cllrs. Cunniffe and Healy welcomed the Housing

Assistance Payments Scheme.

In reply to Cllrs. Broderick and Donohue in relation to Ballinasloe Library, the Chief Executive

said that there is a room at the town end of the building with access to toilet facilities which

may be made available to Community Groups and there is space at the Chapel which may

be made available for performances etc.

He also said that there is space available on the upper floors, one of which is open-plan and

one in cellular format which have potential for use for employment initiatives which the

Council would like to pursue. He indicated that the development of a proposal for the

innovative use of this space would be advanced in the short-term.

DRAFT LITTER MANAGEMENT PLAN 2015 – 2018. 2089

Draft Litter Management Plan 2015 – 2018 together with Cover Letter dated 4th November,

2015, was made available to the Members on the extranet.

Cllr. G. Finnerty, Chairperson of the Environment & Water Services Strategic Policy

Committee, informed the Members that the Environment & Water Services SPC considered

the Draft Litter Management Plan 2015 – 2018 at its Meeting held on 15th July, 2015. He


27 | P a g e

said that Local Authorities are required to review existing Litter Management Plans every 3

years.

He said that the Draft Litter Management Plan sets out objectives for the prevention and

control of litter throughout the County together with actions to achieve these objectives

through working in partnership with various interest groups, businesses and the general

public. A key aim is to raise awareness of the negative effects of litter on the environment,

targeting litter problem areas and promoting best practice in relation to litter prevention

and control.

He said the review of the plan is a reserved function and it is the recommendation of the

SPC that the Draft Plan be approved by the Council.

The Draft Plan was welcomed by the Cathaoirleach and the Members. A discussion took

place regarding the Draft Plan and Mr. Cullen addressed the issues raised by the Members.

He welcomed the support and interest of the Members in relation to environmental issues,

which he said was shared by the Executive and also the Staff working as part of the

Environment Section of the Council. He summarized the approach of the Council in relation

to Litter Management as follows:

Awareness and responsibility

Co-operation and collaboration

Enforcement

He said that the vast majority of County Galway is beautiful and the impression shouldn’t to

go out that the County is a badly littered. He said that enforcement and awareness is

resource intensive and the Community Wardens together with the staff from the

Environment have a significant role to play in carrying out inspections and so on. He said in

light of the continuing budgetary constraints, the issue of resources is not likely to improve.

Mr. Cullen welcomed Cllr. G. Finnerty’s suggestion that those who receive support from the

Council should demonstrate that they are responsible in relation to the disposal of their

refuse. However, he said that the Council have no powers in relation to supports provided

by other Agencies, such as the Department of Social Protection.

In reply to other questions, Mr. Cullen said that the Litter Awareness Sub-Committee of the

Joint Policing Committee (JPC) made a number of recommendations to the Environment &

Water Services SPC and most of these recommendations are initiatives already underway

and provided for in the Draft Litter Management Plan.

In reply to Cllr. K. McHugh, Mr. Cullen said that the Litter Survey was conducted on a

county-wide basis and not on a Municipal District basis. He also replied that the

Environmental Partnership Fund will be targeted towards Community Groups.


28 | P a g e

In relation to concerns expressed by Councillors regarding the fact that landowners are

responsible for disposing of material from their property even if it is dumped illegally on

their property, Mr. Cullen replied that the Council adopts a sensible approach to

enforcement in this regard and endeavours to achieve co-operation in order to clean up

such material.

In reply to the Cathaoirleach and Cllrs. Donohue, K. McHugh, J. Byrne and G. Finnerty, Mr.

Cullen agreed that the penalties for illegal dumping need to be stronger but he said that this

would require a change to legislation.

Cllr. D. Connolly said he would like that plastic items and also mattresses be accepted at the

Civic Amenity Site at Ballinasloe. Cllr. E. Mannion said she also would like that mattresses

be accepted at the Civic Amenity Site at Clifden. Mr. Cullen replied that the Council will

discuss with the private operators of Civic Amenity Sites the possibility of extending the

items they accept from the public.

Cllr. Cuddy referred to the disposal of paint cans and in reply Mr. Cullen said that hazardous

waste collections are facilitated at various sites around the County during the year and

these collections are advertised to the public. He said that distance from Civic Amenity

Sites is not an excuse for causing damage to the environment through illegal dumping.

Cllr. Cuddy acknowledged the WEEE collections and he thanked Mr. Tony McInerney, Senior

Executive Engineer with the Environment Section, for organizing the collections.

In reply to Comh. Ó Tuairisg and Comh. Ó Curraoin, Mr. Cullen said that there is no excuse

for the illegal dumping of white goods such as fridges as these goods can be disposed of

legally.

In reply to Cllr. Charity who referred to the odour which is reported to be coming from the

dump site on the Headford Road, Mr. Cullen said that the Council will investigate the

complaint of the odour but if it is found to come from an EPA licenced site, it will be outside

the Council’s function.

A number of the Members expressed the view that CCTV is a great deterrent to littering and

Cllr. Healy said that he would strongly support covert CCTV because if the Council could

create a sense of paranoia, this would be a great deterrent to illegal dumping. Cllr.

Donnellan also supported the idea of covert CCTV as a deterrent to illegal dumping.

Cllr. Hoade commended the work being carried out by the Community Wardens in the area

of illegal dumping. She suggested that the Council should erect signage at bottle-banks

indicating that bottles should not be left at the site if the banks are full and Mr. Cullen said

that this suggestion would be taken on board by the Council.


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Cllr. Kearney referred to the debris which can be left behind on private lands following

minor car crashes and Mr. Cullen replied that such occurrences represent civil matters and

therefore are for the Gardaí to deal with.

The Cathaoirleach expressed the view that the Probation Services should be utilized to a

greater degree in relation to cleaning up litter and that this task should not be given to

employees on Fás Schemes or Community Employment Schemes. He also expressed the

view that those who observe illegal dumping and report same should not be required to

give evidence in court. He also said that the burden of proof appears to be stacked on the

side of the criminal which he felt was not right.

In reply to Comh. Ó Tuairisg, Mr. Cullen said it is not envisaged that a facility will be

provided at Casla, Conamara for the foreseeable future due to lack of funding.

Cllrs. Mannion, J. Byrne and G. Cronnelly commended the work being carried out by

Community Groups and Tidy Towns Organisations in relation to keeping towns and villages

litter free and they also welcomed the Green Schools initiatives as a great source of

education for young people in the area of environmental protection and litter control.

Cllr. J. Byrne said that a sum of €5,500 is being provided to 10 communities in South Galway

for winter cleanups under the Rural Economic Development Zones (REDZ) Initiative, which is

to be welcomed.

A number of Members referenced the problem of dog fouling and Mr. Cullen said that this is

a problem which is difficult to deal with as it is impossible to prove and prosecute.

However, he said that the Council will continue to promote awareness in this regard.

In reply to Cllr. G. Finnerty, Mr. Cullen said that new legislation will be introduced in 2016

which will give Local Authorities increased powers to collect information regarding the

manner that householders are disposing of their waste. He said that he hopes that this

legislation will be of assistance to the Council in the prevention of illegal dumping of waste.

On the proposal of Cllr. Maher, seconded by Cllr. Cuddy, the Members agreed to approve

the Litter Management Plan 2015 - 2018.

TO RECEIVE A PRESENTATION/UPDATE ON SOCIAL HOUSING 2090

Mr. Gavican presented an update on Social Housing to the Members as follows:

He said that since November, 2014 the Council has completed the purchase of 68 housing

units with 20 at the initial stage of the process and has completed repair work on 61 voids

(vacant houses)


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The Council has applied for funding from the Department of the Environment, Community &

Local Government (DOECLG) towards vacant houses in need of major refurbishment

through the derelicts fund.

It is proposed to construct 54 housing units under the Social Housing Strategy as follows:

– Tuam: 25 units – Ballinasloe: 13 units – Athenry: 10 units – Rural Houses: 6 units

– Additional waiting for approval: 31 units

The following houses were provided by Approved Housing Bodies under the Capital

Acquisition Scheme:

• Acquisitions: (total 24 units) – Peter Triest, Gort: 3 units – Respond, Oranmore: 4 units – Tearmann Enna Teo: 17 units –

• Construction: (total 47 units) – Claregalway Housing Association: 12 units – Mountbellew Housing Association: 5 units – Cluid, Letterfrack: 13 units – Cluid, Ballinasloe: 17 units

The following houses were provided under the Social Housing Current Expenditure Programme:

• Clifden: 14 units • Loughrea: 11 units • Ballinasloe: 10 units • Mortgage to Rent Scheme (various): 7 units

Mr. Gavican said that although the Council is finding it difficult to secure houses for leasing

and rental purposes, the Social Housing Strategy in general is on target and in line with

financial targets and budgets.

In relation to vacant houses he said that currently there is a long vacancy period and the

Council normally waits for the units to be vacated before commencing repair works. He

also said that the standard as regards finish is high having regard to the available funding.

He said that the Council proposes the following in relation to vacant houses:

• To work with the DOECLG in modifying voids funding • To incentivise preventive maintenance with rapid turnaround


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• To re-evaluate minimum rental standard • To implement planned maintenance on an ongoing basis • To commence works on turnover once notice of tenant vacating is received • To develop inspection programmes and trial same

He referred to the Tenancy & Estate Management Strategy which was adopted by the

Council in 2013 and said that Estate Plans are being prepared for priority estates in 2015.

The Tenancy & Estate Management Unit was established in 2013 and a Planned

Maintenance, Estate Management and Allocation System has been established in 2015.

Mr. Gavican referred to the Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) which is a new social

housing support scheme which will be provided by the Council from 16th November, 2015

This initiative will replace the rent supplement scheme provided by the Department of

Social Protectionfor those with long term housing need who qualify for social housing

support. New benefits under the scheme are as follows:

• The local authority will pay the rent directly to the landlord and the tenant pays the differential rent to the local authority

• Households that find full-time employment can remain in the scheme which was not the case under rent supplement

Mr. Gavican concluded by stating that the Housing Section has commenced a Review of Tenant Circumstances under the terms of the Council’s adopted Differential Rent Scheme. The scheme stipulates that tenants should notify the Council immediately of any changes in income or family circumstances and failure to do so will lead to retrospective adjustment of rent and/or imposition of the maximum rent. He said that the review commenced in the Loughrea Municipal District Area and to date 110 rents have been increased and 76 have been reduced as a result of the review. Cllr. D. Connolly thanked Mr. Gavican for providing the update following his request at the

September Monthly Meeting. The Cathaoirleach and Members were unanimous in their

views that the update was very positive and they thanked Mr. Gavican for the work he had

done in relation to housing since he took up office as Director of Services in September

2014.

A discussion took place and Mr. Gavican replied to the issues raised by the Members as

follows:

In reply to Cllrs. Maher, McClearn, Fahy and J. Byrne in relation to the 2015 Review of

Tenant Circumstances, he said that the Review was being carried out in accordance with the

adopted policy of the Council. He said the process was commenced in the Loughrea Area

and he apologized that the Members were not made aware that it had commenced. He

said that while the Council will credit those who had not notified the Council of changes to

their circumstances from the date of the change, for example those reaching pension age, a


32 | P a g e

decision has been made that rent increases will only be retrospective for 6 months on a

rolling basis. He said that if the Members had an issue regarding rents payable by individual

tenants, they could bring same to the attention of staff for investigation.

Cllrs. Broderick and Charity welcomed the Review of Tenant Circumstances and the

payment of credits where due, but questioned the fact that rent increases are only

retrospective for a period of six months. Mr. Gavican said that it is the Council’s view that

this is the most workable approach at present and he also said that the carrying out of a

Review for the whole county is a lengthy process. He also said that following the Review, it

is anticipated that overall rental income will increase.

Cllr. Maher made the following proposal “that the Differential Rent Scheme be sent to the

S.P.C. Committee to discuss and plan implementing policy or recommendations of the

Differential Rent Scheme going forward.” Cllr. McClearn said that the issue of how the

Council interacts with its tenants is important and he seconded Cllr. Maher’s proposal.

Cllrs. Broderick expressed the view that the Differential Rent Scheme should not be put back

to the Housing SPC at this point and should be dealt with by the Plenary Council and Cllr.

Cunniffe said that tenancies and reviews of rent should be dealt with by the Municipal

District Councils.

The Chief Executive said that there is no difficulty in referring the Differential Scheme to the

Housing SPC for discussion and he said that the Rent Review taking place at present is in

accordance with the Council’s adopted policy.

Cllr. Feeney said that the Differential Rent Scheme in place at present is very beneficial for

both the Council and the tenants as it provides for rents based on the tenants’

circumstances.

The Members agreed with Cllrs. Maher’s proposal that the Differential Rent Scheme be sent

to the Housing, Corporate & Recreation S.P.C. to discuss and plan implementing policy or

recommendations of the Differential Rent Scheme going forward.

In reply to Cllr. Cuddy, Mr. Gavican said that there are 3342 on the housing waiting list, with

300 transferring from Galway City Council.

Cllrs. Maher, Hoade, Cronnelly, J. Byrne, T. McHugh and M. Connolly welcomed the

proactive approach being taken in relation to preventative maintenance and the rapid

turnaround of voids as they felt that vacant houses can lead to anti-social behaviour and

also damage can be caused to the houses.

Mr. Gavican said that Garda checks are carried out on all applicants prior to letting and cross

referencing between other local authorities regarding previous tenancies is also carried out.


33 | P a g e

In reply to Cllrs. Hynes, Cunniffe, McClearn and J. Byrne, Mr. Gavican said that a new Tenant

Purchase Scheme will be available in the coming weeks.

Cllrs. Rabbitte, J. Byrne and G. Finnerty welcomed the Housing Assistance Payments

Initiative (HAP). They felt that the direct payment to be made by the local authority to the

landlord, while the tenant will pay a differential rent to the Council, is a positive move under

the initiative. They also welcomed the fact that it will be incumbent on landlords who

enter into the scheme to maintain their property to an acceptable standard.

In reply to Cllrs. Maher and Hynes, Mr. Gavican said that the Housing Section will get

staffing resources from other Directorates of the Council to administer this new social

housing support.

However, Cllr. Maher said that the Council should apply to the Department of the

Environment, Community & Local Government (DECLG) for approval to employ the

necessary staff to implement HAP.

In reply to Cllrs. Cuddy and J. Byrne, Mr. Gavican said that there will be an onus on the

Council to inspect houses within the first 8 months and he also said that HAP will be funded

by the DECLG for the first 12 - 18 months, following which time the Council will review the

scheme.

In reply to Cllr. D. Connolly, Mr. Gavican said that there is a clause in the Tenancy Agreement which stipulates that the Tenant shall keep the dwelling in a clean and proper state, and shall not allow any refuse or offensive matter to accumulate in any portion thereof. The Tenant must submit a written statement and evidence of payment for waste disposal arrangements in place, if requested by the Council. He also informed Cllr. D. Connolly that people who find themselves homeless should present to the Council offices at Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, however he said that in exceptional circumstances where this is not possible, a Social Worker may visit the person. He said that 6 no. single rural houses have been approved for construction, however the DECLG will only approve single rural houses in exceptional cases.

In reply to Cllr. G. Broderick, Mr. Gavican said that while the Council does not have any land

in Gort for housing construction, Gort remains a priority for housing by means of house

purchases and other initiatives.

In reply to Cllr. T. McHugh, Mr. Gavican said that plans for the refurbishment of houses at

Gilmartin Road, Tuam are with the Department awaiting approval and he assured the

Member that the Council supports the ideal of sustainable communities going forward

through including a mix of tenants.

In relation to Bridge Court, Ahascragh, he said that a strategy is being examined at present

in order to improve this area.


34 | P a g e

In reply to Cllr. McClearn regarding the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS), Mr. Gavican

said that there is an obligation on the Council to hand back the houses to the landlords in

the condition they received them.

Cllr. Healy said that he understood the difficulty being experienced by the Council in relation

to sourcing houses for rent under the Rental Accommodation Scheme because there is a

shortage of houses in the private rented sector. He also referred to the Council’s function

in relation to the inspection of houses registered with the Private Rented Tenancies Board

and said that if it is found that houses are not meeting the required standard, this should be

highlighted.

Mr. Gavican replied that the Council carries out inspections of private rented dwellings and

he acknowledged that more needs to be done in this area having regard to resources

available.

Cllrs. Rabbitte and M. Connolly complimented the staff of the Housing Section for the work

they carry out within available resources to provide a good service to the public as regards

the various housing options in place.

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS 2091

It was proposed by Cllr. T. McHugh and seconded by Cllr. Maher, that the Standing Orders

be suspended in order to allow the Meeting continue after 5pm.

ASSOCIATION OF IRISH LOCAL GOVERNMENT – CLAUSE 5 OF STANDING POLICY CHAPTER, PAGE 3, BE AMENDED SO THAT: the Policy Council shall meet on a bi-monthly basis and the Executive Committee will be empowered to call an emergency meeting where such is warranted. 2092

[Report already available to the Members on the extranet]

Mr. Owens informed the Members that the Local Government Act 2001 obliges the

Association of Irish Local Government to consult with Member Councils in regard to any

changes to its Constitution and therefore the AILG has sent this proposed amendment for

Consideration by the Council.

On the proposal of Cllr. Feeney, seconded by Cllr. G. Finnerty, the Members agreed that Clause 5 of Standing Policy Chapter, Page 3, of the Association of Irish Local Government, be amended so that: the Policy Council shall meet on a bi-monthly basis and the Executive Committee will be empowered to call an emergency meeting where such is warranted.


35 | P a g e

TO FIX A DATE AND TIME FOR THE DECEMBER ORDINARY MEETING OF PLENARY COUNCIL

2093

On the proposal of Cllr. Hoade, seconded by Cllr. Maher, the Members agreed that the

December Ordinary Meeting of Plenary Council be held on 16th December, 2015 at 11a.m.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S BUSINESS & CORRESPONDENCE 2094

Mr. Gavin informed the Members that as part of the M6 Motorway Project, it is proposed

by the National Roads Authority (NRA) to de-classify certain National Roads. He said that

the Executive has written to the NRA indicating that the Council is not happy with some of

the de-classifications as this will result in reduced funding for the affected roads.

Cllr. Kinane said that it is important that the Members support the Executive in this regard.

A discussion took place and Cllr. Maher made the following proposal:

“That the N67 be extended from Ballinderrin, Kilcolgan to Oranmore and Galway City.

That N63 be extended from Annahill to Loughgeorge to Galway City. N17 be retained from

Tuam Town to Loughgeorge.

The N66 to remain a National Route from Gort to Loughrea”.

This proposal was seconded by Cllr. Feeney, and agreed.

Cllrs. Cuddy, K. McHugh, J. Byrne, Cunniffe and McClearn thanked Mr. Gavin for bringing this

matter to the attention of the Members and expressed concern regarding any de-

classification of roads because of the resulting funding implications.

Cllr. Feeney said that it is inevitable that some sections of roads will be de-classified

following the completion of the Motorway but it is important that adequate funding is

available for the maintenance of all roads.

Mr. Gavin replied that the report being sent to the NRA contains a request that any road

being down-graded get additional funding now to bring it up to standard.

In reply to Cllr. Cunnane, Mr. Gavin said that it is proposed to complete a full overlay on the

N18 and to overlay most of the N17.

Mr. Gavin also informed the Members that night-time closures and restrictions on the

Galway-Dublin Motorway are to be introduced from Monday 23rd November 2015 to

facilitate the construction of the new interchange at Rathmorrissey. From 23rd November

to 27th November, the westbound lanes will be closed between the Athenry and Oranmore

junctions from 10pm to 6am. He said that the east-bound lanes will not be closed but there


36 | P a g e

will be rolling closures on the east-bound lane with reduced speeds between the Oranmore

and Athenry junctions. The westbound closures will also be in place from Monday 30th

November to Friday 4th December 2015.

The following items of correspondence which were circulated at the meeting were noted:

Correspondence from Clare County Council dated 16th October 2015 passing a resolution “That Clare County Council supports the call for the release of Ibrahim Halawa, an Irish citizen, and calls on the Taoiseach to personally intervene on his behalf”.

Correspondence dated 23rd October 2015 from the office of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, acknowledging receipt of recent letter from Galway County Council.

Correspondence dated 28th October 2015 from the office of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in reply to letter received from Galway County Council regarding commercial rates.

Correspondence from the Office of Public Works dated 30th October 2015 in reply to letter received from Galway County Council requesting the OPW to attend a Plenary Council meeting.

CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS 2095

The Cathaoirleach said that the Team behind Galway’s Bid for the European Capital of

Culture would present their Bid before a panel of judges the following day and the

announcement of the short-listing would be made on Friday in Dublin Castle and he wished

them success in this competition which he said has major implications for both Galway City

and County for the year 2020.

NOTICES OF MOTION

NOTICE OF MOTION NO. 19 – CLLR. M. KINANE 2096

The following reply was given:-

“Notice of Motion funding was increased substantially last year from €555,000 to €721,500.

This should not be increased further as this funding is taken from the Councils Local Road

Maintenance allocation. Any reduction in funding of local roads is not recommended. It

should be noted that the funding of local road repairs has been drastically reduced in the

last 7 years and is now insufficient to maintain roads at an acceptable standard. In addition,

the allocation of NOM funding from Councillors to each project is small and is therefore not


37 | P a g e

being used efficiently or effectively and any further redistribution of funds away from local

road maintenance will further reduce our ability to maintain local roads.”

NOTICE OF MOTION NO. 20 – CLLR. M. FINNERTY 2097

As this Notice of Motion was not for written reply and was not reached it was deferred for

inclusion on the agenda for the December Ordinary Meeting of Plenary Council.

NOTICE OF MOTION NO. 21 – CLLR. M. FINNERTY 2098

The following reply was given:-

“This matter has been referred for consideration by the Corporate Policy Group and will be

considered at a meeting scheduled for Monday, 16th November 2015.”

CHRIOCHNAIGH AN CRUINNIÚ ANSIN.

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