Minutes of April Monthly meeting 08

MINUTES OF THE APRIL MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 7.30 P.M ON WEDNESDAY THE 16^th APRIL 2008 IN THE MUICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

CATHAOIRLEACH; COUNCILLOR CUNNANE.

COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE; COUNCILLORS DALTON, EGAN, ENGLISH, DALY, O’SULLIVAN, BRESLIN, LAWLER, WRIGHT.

OFFICALS IN ATTENDANCE; TOMMY SKEHAN, TOWN MANAGER,

BRIAN O’GORMAN, TOWN CLERK, MARIA AHEARNE, A/SSO, PAUL

HICKEY, TOWN ENGINEER.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed the new Town Clerk, Brian O’Gorman and hoped he would have a long, happy and productive time in Athy Town Council. The Cathaoirleach also welcomed Tommy Skehan back and was glad to see he was in good health.

1. ADOPTION OF MINUTES.

Minutes of March Monthly Meeting held on 19^th March 2008

On the proposal of Cllr Wright

Seconded by Cllr O’Sullivan

And agreed.

Minutes of Carbury Park Remedial Meeting on the 1^st April 2008

On the proposal of Cllr Egan

Seconded by Cllr Breslin

And agreed

Minutes of Retail Strategy Meeting 13^th March 2008

On the proposal of Cllr Breslin

Seconded by Cllr Daly

2. MATTERS ARISING

Cllr Wright enquired why ESB were not in attendance as requested. Cllr Wright also advised the meeting that he wanted an update on the Footbridge and requested a written statement to confirm that it would be constructed.

The Town Clerk advised the members that he received a call this morning to advise him that the representative was unable to attend due to illness.

The Cathaoirleach advised the members that a contact number was left to give to all the members to assist with individual ESB queries.

Cllr Breslin said that to say that funding was applied for to upgrade the heating systems in Nelson Street was misleading and requested an update on the landscaping plan at Kingsgrove.

The Town Engineer advised that all issues would be addressed at the next committee meeting. He advised the members that he received the Safety report yesterday and would issue a recommendation to the Town Manager in regard to this report in the next week/two.

Cllr Daly requested an update on the Jetty and Town Engineer advised that the relevant training had been requested.

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that Mr John Lahart was to contact him and in turn the next meeting with regard to the Retail Strategy would be set as soon as possible.

3. CORRESPONDENCE

Brian O’Gorman, Town Clerk read the following correspondence

§ The South Kildare Medieval Festival Sunday 20^th April 2008 12.30 – 4.30pm, Emily Square, Athy.

§ A request from ‘Friends of the Elderly, 25 Bolton Street, Dublin 1 to be advised of the oldest person in the locality.

§ A representative from Deputy Jack Wall seeking a contribution to assist a local group called ‘Jekyl’ with recording an EP. Cllr English said he had no objection but that this should be referred back to the Arts Committee.

§ Correspondence from Office of the Minister for Education and Science re ‘Athy Community College’ to advise the members that the recent letter had been brought to the attention of the Minister and the correspondence had been referred to the Developing Areas Section of the Department for direct reply to the Town Clerk. Cllr Daly said there was a huge element of vagueness and was disappointed with this reply. This is the 9^th year of this project and he hoped there would be a better response shortly. This was supported by all the members.

§ Correspondence requesting support for Notice of Motion from Mullingar Town Council – ‘That this Town Council would call upon the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government not to disenfranchise local Mullingar town people by preventing them from cutting and saving turf on the local bogs for their own personal use’. All members supported this motion.

§ Correspondence requesting support for Notice of Motion from Clones Town Council – ‘That Clones Town Council note the increase in Agency employment throughout the economy. We are aware that many workers from Ireland and abroad are offered agency employment when they are seeking direct and permanent employment.

We understand that trade unions have raised concern that many of these workers are retained on minimum conditions and in some instances are not receiving their full entitlements.

This Council hereby resolves that Agency employment should not be used as an unnecessary substitute for direct employment or as a mechanism for avoidance of fair pay and conditions.

Noting that legislation will come before the Oireachtas on the issue of Agency Employment, Clones Town Council believe and recommend to the Minister that the Principle of equal treatment should be included in any such legislation on this issue’. All members supported this motion.

§ Correspondence requesting support for Notice of Motion from Clones Town Council – ‘That Clones Town Council call on the Minister for Health, Mary Harney TD to appoint an ombudsman in the Department of Health so that the people of the Country can get an honest answer regarding their complaints about health matters’. All members supported this motion.

§ Correspondence from Athy Town Council Arts Sub committee requesting 2 members of Athy Town Council to make up the proposed Management Company along with 2 representatives from Kildare County Council, 1 from the Methodist Community and 5 from the Arts Committee. Cllr Lawler enquired about the need for 2 members from Kildare County Council and Cllr Daly advised that it was probably mimicking the set up of the Management of the Heritage Company. Cllr Dalton requested the commitment of the Town Manager and the Town Manager advised the members that a letter issued to Mr Shaw. A meeting is to be organised to discuss this in more detail with the Arts Sub Committee and the Town Clerk.

§ Correspondence from Robert Chanders re: Show Band Nostalgic Night in aid of Teach Emanuel Athy, who are raising much needed funds for a new bus.

On the proposal of Cllr Breslin

Seconded by Cllr Daly

€250 to issue to Robert Chanders.

§ Correspondence from Frank Taaffe enquiring when the 1798 monument would be erected. Cllr Wright said it was scandalous that this monument was not yet erected. Cllr Daly enquired what the current situation was. The Town Engineer advised that a memo was circulated outlining what was needed to proceed and advised that drawings needed to be agreed. Cllr Wright enquired if the three stone tablets in the depot would be used. The Engineer outlined that he currently had an artist’s impression that included these in the design and this needed to be converted into a design. Cllr Lawler met Brid De Rin last year and volunteered to build this monument and had met with the Town Engineer to discuss this. The Town Manager informed the meeting that Athy Town Council had purchased the tablets a number of years ago and enquired if any names were to be part of the design. Cllr Lawler replied that 1798 would be put on it. No other names would be part of the design. Cllr Daly accepted the report as given and asked for an update at the next meeting.

§ Conference on ‘Developments in the Planning Systems, North and South’ in the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh on Thursday 24^th April 2008.

§ Conference of the Isles Housing Conference 2008 in the Silversprings Moran Hotel, Tivoli, Cork on 24^th-25^th April 2008.

§ Local Government Anti-Poverty Learning Network “The Implementation of Phase 2 of Rapid” in the Tullamore Court on 30^th April 2008.

On the proposal of Cllr Dalton

Seconded by Cllr O’Sullivan

Cllr Cunanne to attend.

On the proposal of Cllr Dalton

Seconded by Cllr English

Cllr Daly to attend.

§ Conference on ‘The Role of Local Government in Community & Rural Development’ in the Listowel Arms Hotel on 8^th &9^th May 2008.

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler

Seconded by Cllr Daly

Cllr O’Sullivan to attend.

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler

Seconded by Cllr Dalton

Cllr English to attend.

§ Conference on ’Local Government & the Environment’ in the Ballyvaughan Coast Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Co Clare on 16^th-18^th May 2008.

On the proposal of Cllr O’Sullivan

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

Cllr Cunanne to attend.

§ Conference on ‘How to develop literacy-friendly policies and practices across the organisation’ in the Galway Bay Hotel on 21^st May 2008.

On the proposal of Cllr O’Sullivan

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

Cllr Egan to attend

§ Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland Newsletter – Circulated to all members

§ Preliminary Notice of 95^th AMAI Annual Conference to be held in Sligo from September 10^th to 13^th. To be circulated at July meeting.

§ “National Hub Town Conference” hosted by The Mayor of Cork County – Cllr Tom Sheahan in Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, Co Cork on 29^th May 2008.

4. NOTICES OF MOTION

Cllr Wright

5. “That we as a Council impose a cap on all rent increases on our local authority houses where social welfare recipients and low wages income families are concerned as budget rises are meaning less when this Council takes it from them in rent increases getting from Peter to pay Paul”.

On the proposal of Cllr Wright

Seconded by Cllr Egan

All agreed

Cllr Wright advised the meeting that Kildare County Council had passed a similar motion re Social Welfare recipients and low income families. Cllr Wright requested that a letter be issued to Minister John Gormley stating that some houses were long overpaid at this stage and the tenant should have an option to purchase them out as a special rate as the most vulnerable people are being hit in our society.

Cllr Egan had nothing further to add.

Cllr Dalton reminded the Council that we had not increased the pensioners and had a minimal rent increase in this year’s budget and requested that the circular re the capping of the increases be checked and asked that a campaign commence to encourage tenant’s to purchase these units. All members spoke in support of this. Cllr Wright requested that the Town Council write to DSCFA and request why pensioners did not have the option to be included in the household budget scheme to pay their rent. Again all members supported this.

Cllr Wright

6. “That we as a Council look at the possibility in our next estimates of providing money to finance rubbish skips in housing estates when needed, as working class people have genuinely nowhere to dispose non domestic rubbish”.

On the proposal of Cllr Wright

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

All agreed

Cllr Wright informed the meeting that bins were being provided when the Local Authority had no money and now that we have the downturn of the Celtic Tiger we should review and reinstate skips. Some people have no way of getting to the Civic Amenity Centre. It is an embarrassment going on the train due to the litter on view. Dumpers should be prosecuted.

Cllr Lawler supported the motion and spoke of how he doesn’t condone any dumping. Athy has a good civic amenity centre and should have a name and shame Campaign.

Cllr Egan spoke of how Offaly County Council had skips packed high and it was dangerous and maybe a one day cleanup could be organised. Cllr O’Sullivan spoke of how domestic waste being dumped is a disgrace and requested that we write to Kildare County Council to set up an advertisement campaign for the Amenity Centre to encourage more usage. Cllr Dalton spoke in support of advertisement campaign and said we had skips before and they were being set on fire. The community have expressed an interest that they do not want skips. Recycling should be encouraged. Cllr Daly said that recycling should be made easier as dumping at the side of the road was not an easier option and that a solution had to be found. Cllr English supported the motion. The Cathaoirleach noted that the Estimates committee would take this on board in October/November.

Cllr Wright

7. “That we as a Council take immediate steps under our Derelict Site Act and authority, to either take over or demand a complete cleanup of what is known as the Anglers Rest, Leinster Street, as the filth and dirt and smell coming out of the broken windows is a slight and a blight on our town of Athy”.

On the proposal of Councillor Wright

Seconded by Cllr Dalton

All agreed

Cllr Wright informed the meeting of the smell that was coming from this building stating that there were ‘rats as big as cats in it’, together with anti-social behaviour. He blamed the environmental bodies and requested prosecution immediately.

Cllr Dalton explained that this building was put to the members to delist in order to assist and expressed disappointment that this had not taken place.

The Town Clerk informed the members that a notice had been issued today. Cllr English enquired what would happen now to which the Town Clerk informed the members that different dates were put on the notice for certain works to be completed by. Cllr Wright requested that we write to the Gardai to inform them of the Cider parties that were taken place here. The Town Manager advised the members that this issue had been discussed with the Town Clerk and thought the ‘carrot approach’ could be used and that movement is now afoot.

Cllr O’Sullivan

8. “That the Town Council could replace the lifebuoys on the River especially between Town and Railway Bridge”.

On the proposal of Cllr O’Sullivan

Seconded by Cllr English

All agreed.

Cllr O’Sullivan informed the meeting that 3 lifebuoys were gone completely and one had no rope attached. This is critical time with the triathlon coming up. Cllr O’Sullivan enquired if two more lifebuoys could be set up near Pettits.

Cllr English supported the motion and condemned the people that threw the lifebuoys in the water.

All members supported the motion.

Cllr Daly

9. “That Athy Town Council ensures that the pump out station on our waterways is commissioned immediately and put into service to be available for this year’s tourist season”

On the proposal of Cllr Daly

Seconded by Cllr O’Sullivan

All agreed.

Cllr Daly requested that this be investigated as this is the only pump station for miles and we are now coming into the tourist season and it was good to encourage people to visit by water.

Cllr O’Sullivan supported the motion.

Cllr English advised the meeting this had previously been raised by Cliff Reid and that the County Council had some involvement.

All members supported the motion.

Cllr Daly

10. “That Athy Town Council in the interest of safety replaces the footpath which was removed in Graysland with minimum damage to existing trees taking cognisance of the safety report”

On the proposal of Cllr Daly

Seconded by Cllr O’Sullivan

FOR: Cllr Cunanne/Daly/Breslin/Lawler/O’Sullivan/Egan/Wright

AGAINST: Cllr English/Dalton

To carry the amended motion

Cllr Daly informed the meeting that Cllr Wright had a motion in 2006 that had been deferred. The choice was the trees or the path at the time and the residents were now in agreement to reinstate the path. Cllr Daly informed the meeting he had received a letter from Athy Access Group to say that the road was now being used in the absence of the path. This is now an urgent issue coming into the summer season.

Cllr O’Sullivan supported the motion.

Cllr English requested if the motion could be amended to read ‘to defer until report is checked out’. This was supported by Cllr Dalton and put to a vote.

FOR: Cllr English/Dalton

AGAINST: Cllr Cunanne/O’Sullivan/Daly/Wright

ABSTAINED: Cllr Egan/Breslin/Lawler

Amendment not carried.

Cllr Wright spoke of how the path must be replaced. Cllr Lawler supported the former Town Engineer as he made a recommendation on foot of the advice available to him at that time and said he would support change if it’s put to the members now. Cllr English said he would abide by whatever the report recommended. Cllr Dalton spoke of how the committee set up has worked well and that they should be contacted when the report recommendations are in place and then be brought back to the members. The Town Manager said he wanted to read the report and would then report back to the members.

Cllr Daly suggested an amendment to the motion to read ‘…taking cognisance of the safety report’

FOR: Cllr Cunanne/Daly/Breslin/Lawler/O’Sullivan/Egan/Wright

AGAINST: Cllr English/Dalton

To carry the amended motion

Cllr English & Cllr Wright left the meeting.

Cllr Breslin

11. “That Athy Town Council investigates and provides a mechanism for dealing with the situation of non residents causing problems in Butler’s Lane and that the Council has the area cleaned up to include the removal of litter and overgrown shrubbery”

On the proposal of Cllr Breslin

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

All agreed.

Cllr Breslin spoke about the anti-social behaviour and litter in this area. A design under RAPID had been done and had not been finalised. Cllr Breslin requested for the shrubbery to be removed and the paving area to be weeded.

Cllr Lawler supported the motion and said we needed to be proactive as this area had not been cleaned up in a long time. He requested the anti-social behaviour be brought to the attention of the Gardai.

The Town Engineer said he would address this issue.

Cllr Breslin

12. “That a report be given on the reasons for the delay in the starting of a housing development at Woodstock Street, Athy and that in light of the current anti-social behaviour problems that are occurring in the area that further measures be put in place to secure the site”

On the proposal of Cllr Breslin

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

All agreed

Cllr Breslin informed the meeting that a tender had been sought, a contractor was appointed and that drink parties were taken place in Woodstock Lodge. This project should proceed now together with a definite time for commencement and for the anti-social behaviour to be eradicated.

Cllr Lawler said he was disappointed that development had not commenced and that he was aware that the contractor appointed had turned down work awaiting commencement of this project.

Cllr Dalton supported this motion. The Town Manager asked that a letter issue to the Gardai in regard to the anti-social behaviour and advised the members that the housing capital allocation for 2008 had not been received yet to know the status of this project.

Cllr Breslin

13. “Can a meeting be arranged between all relevant bodies including the Athy Area Committee to discuss plans and strategy to upgrading and protection of the Barrow Walk in the Athy Area”

On the proposal of Cllr Breslin

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

All agreed.

Cllr Dalton advised that a motion was raised last year to set up a committee.

Cllr Breslin asked that the Area Committee be involved. The Town Manager highlighted that Inland Waterways were key to this and would be available to meet up with them.

Cllr Dalton requested that a letter issue to Kildare County Council Southern Area Committee to meet with Athy Town Council Members.

Cllr Egan

14. “That Athy Town Council maintains to an acceptable standard all their vacant houses ensuring that they do not deteriorate or fall into use for anti-social behaviour until such time as they are occupied”

On the proposal of Cllr Egan

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

All agreed

Cllr Egan said this was a very serious matter and that it gives a bad impression.

Cllr Lawler supported this motion.

Cllr Dalton said this is a major issue and that some crime/drug abuse is taking place. The Town Manager said that there is public and private houses concerned here and that a report on the Council properties would issue.

Cllr Egan

15. “That Athy Town Council immediately erects signs informing the public that it is an offence for dogs to litter in public areas and stating the fines for such an occurrence”

On the proposal of Cllr Egan

Seconded by Cllr Lawler

All agreed

Cllr Egan informed the meeting that Cllr Daly had addressed this in 2007.

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler

Seconded by Cllr Dalton

To suspend standing orders as it was 10.00pm.

Cllr Lawler supported the motion and said it was difficult to negotiate the footpaths of Athy due to ‘dog dirt’.

Cllr Dalton highlighted that the worst routes were the Carlow Road and the Railway Bridge @ the Kildare Road. Cllr Lawler requested that the sign in the old graveyard be rectified as the ‘no’ part of the ‘No Dogs Allowed’ was deleted. Cllr O’Sullivan asked that signs be put on the Carlow Road. The Town Manager advised that the County Council had Dog Wardens and that Athy Town Council contact Environment Section. The Cathaoirleach requested the location of the current signs around the town.

Cllr Egan

16. “Can Athy Town Council clean up the walkway by the River Barrow on the Carlow Road as a matter of urgency considering the beauty of the area and how such littering is affecting such amenity”

This motion was deferred to the May meeting.

17. CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS

The Cathaoirleach asked that the Retail Strategy progress as soon as possible.

The members were advised of the meeting with the 4 Town Councils.

An update was requested in regard to the Arts Committee.

The AMAI had a vote of sympathy for Cllr Noel Scully R.I.P.

A letter was to be sent to Tom Ryan in support of the Green Paper.

The Cathaoirleach extended his congratulations to John Joe Joyce and to Athy Town Boxing Club and yet again to Dom O’Rourke.

18. MANAGER’S BUSINESS

The Manager advised the members that a meeting would be set up to discuss the Retail Strategy and the 2008 Block Grant.

Cllr Daly requested that reinstatement of the right of way at Rathstewart and road markings at this location be part of the Block Grant.

19. REPORT FROM SUB COMMITTEES

ATHY TOWN TWINNING – No report submitted.

ARTS SUB COMMITTEE – A meeting was to be set up, together with the Management Committee re the Methodist Church.

REMEDIAL SCHEME – A submission was being prepared for the DoE on foot of the meeting of Tuesday 15^th.

RAPID – Graffiti Removal, Phase I had commenced

YOUTH CAFÉ – The Youth Café was progressing well.

CEMETERY – Cllr O’Sullivan requested if this was still in place and that a section of trees needed to be cut at the Old St Michael’s Cemetery. The Town Engineer to investigate this and the names of the committee to be reconvened.

CILL DARA AR AGHAIDH TEO – Minutes circulated.

20. PLANNING REGISTER

No comment.

21. OTHER BUSINESS

Cllr Daly asked if the photo of Cllr Scully R.I.P. had been sourced to put in the Chamber as proposed on Christmas Eve. Cllr Breslin and M Ahearne were following up on this.

Cllr O’Sullivan requested an update re the Bus Shelters in town. The Town Engineer replied that a letter had issued to CIE and that he would issue a reminder.

Cllr Lawler noted that the pole had now gone from the Stradbally Road and requested that the Concrete Bollards now be removed.

The Cathaoirleach proposed a minute’s silence, seconded by Cllr Dalton for the former President Hilary, an exemplary politician and person, to sympathise with his family.

THIS CONCLUDED THE MEETING

CATHAOIRLEACH ___________________________________

DATE ___________________________________

Agenda for May 08 Meeting

NOTICE OF MAY MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY, THE 21ST of MAY, 2008 AT 7.30 P.M. IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

AGENDA

1. Minutes of April Monthly Meeting held on the 16th of April, 2008.
Minutes of Road Block Grants Meeting held on the 8th May 2008

2. Matters Arising.

3. Correspondence.

4. Notices of Motion

Councillor Egan:

5. “Can Athy Town Council clean up the walkway by the river Barrow on the Carlow road as a matter of urgency considering the beauty of the area and how such littering is affecting such amenity.”

Councillors Lawler, Breslin, Egan:

6. “That Athy Town Council initiates a cross community response to the alarming levels of suicide and self-harm in the local area. That local area action plan be drawn up to build resilience or protection at community level; develop crisis intervention services; enhance services and supports for survivors and enhance support for families, individuals and communities affected by suicide and deliberate self-harm.”

Councillor Lawler, Breslin:

7. “That Athy Town Council requests Kildare County Council to investigate the possibility of providing a pedestrian crossing at the AIB Bank Duke St.”






8. “That Athy Town Council take immediate steps to regulate the Tuesday Market in the areas known as the Barrow Quay, Emily Row and the Back Square and to introduce by-laws if necessary to facilitate this as the areas mentioned have become in recent times dangerous for pedestrians and motorists due to lack of designated market trading areas.”

Councillor Dalton and English:

9. “That a review be carried out on all aspects of this council’s housing allocation policies>”

10. “That additional resources be provided for the upgrade and maintenance of the People’s park.”

Councillor Wright:
11. “That we as a council in conjunction with Kildare County look at the possibility of widening the road at the left turn from Leinster St down Kirwan’s Lane as with the school population and the general population of the area is absolutely lethal to all of the people using it.”

12. “In view of this fact that in the last two years or more none of the déjà vu motions have been resolved or addressed I propose that we hold a special meeting to discuss them as going through the ritual of the motions at every meeting is farcical.”

13. “That we as a Council under the Freedom of Information of Act investigate all landlord owned houses in the urban area and supply the names of all as houses are not being kept in proper order and rents should be investigated and also to supply charter on tenants rights.”






Councillor O’ Sullivan:
14. “That Town Council call on the HSE to clarify the position re. services for St Vincent’s Hospital.”

15. Cathaoirleach’s Business.

16. Manager’s Business.
· Social Housing Investment Programme (Capital Allocation)
· Athy Town Development Plan (Review)
· Retail Strategy
· 1798 Monument
· Methodist Church
· De-listing of 9 Duke St
· Setting date for Finance Sub-Committee Meeting
· Setting date for Annual General Meeting


17. Report from Sub Committees

· Athy Town Twinning.
· Arts Sub- Committee.
· Remedial Scheme.
· Rapid.
· Youth Café.
· Cemetery


18. Planning Register.


19. Other Business.


Brian O’ Gorman,
Town Clerk.

MINUTES OF THE MARCH 2008 MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL

MINUTES OF THE MARCH MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 7.30 P.M ON WEDNESDAY THE 19TH OF MARCH 2008 IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.


CATHAOIRLEACH; COUNCILLLOR CUNNANE.

COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE; COUNCILLORS DALTON,
ENGLISH, LAWLER, WRIGHT,
DALY, BRESLIN, O’SULLIVAN.

OFFICALS IN ATTENDANCE; GERRY HALTON, TOWN MANAGER
PAUL HICKEY, TOWN ENGINEER,
MARIA AHEARNE A/TOWN CLERK
OLIVE KAVANAGH A/SSO.


Suspension of Standing orders to allow for the co-option of Tony Egan onto the council.
Proposed by Cllr Lawler,
Seconded by Cllr Breslin.
All Agreed

Councillor Lawler stated that owing to the death of Councillor Noel Scully a vacancy had arisen. He informed the meeting that the Labour party had held a convention to elect a replacement for the Labour Councillor Noel Scully. Three people were nominated and Tony Egan was elected by the party to replace Noel Scully on the council. Councillor Lawler said he took great pleasure in proposing Tony Egan to fill the vacancy left by the untimely death of Cllr Noel Scully.

Cllr Breslin in seconding the proposal stated that it was a sad occasion also as we have to acknowledge Noel Scully’s loss. She went on to add that she was delighted with Tony Egan nomination and stated that he was an invaluable member of the labour party, and he has done a lot of work with age action and the youth of the town.

That Tony Egan be co-opted onto Athy Town Council to replace Cllr. Scully.
Proposed Cllr. Lawler,
Seconded Cllr. Breslin.
All Agreed

The Cathaoirleach formally welcomed Tony Egan and invited him to come down to the council chamber. He stated that Cllr Egan was the first to be co-opted onto the council under the 2001 Local Government Act.

Cllr Dalton welcomed the new councillor and stated that he was sure that he would work with the councillors to deliver for the town. He also stated that it was a sad occasion acknowledging the loss of Councillor Noel Scully. Cllr. O’ Sullivan welcomed Cllr. Egan and stated that she looked forward to working with him. She also acknowledged that it was a sad occasion due to the loss of Cllr Scully. Cllr. Daly also welcomed him and looked forward to working with him. He added that Cllr Scully’s death was a very sad loss to the council. Cllr English stated that he wished to be associated with all of the statements, and said Cllr Egan was very welcome.

The Manger informed Cllr Egan, that his door was always open and that he and the staff of Athy Town Council would help Cllr Egan in any way they could.

Cllr Egan thanked the Cathaoirleach, Councillors and Manager for their kind words. He stated that it was a very exciting time to be co-opted onto the council. He stated that he was delighted to see the youth café and remedial works underway. He said that he was looking forward to seeing an end to the chaotic traffic situation. He informed the members that he would support motions, which benefit the people of the town regardless of which political party proposed them. He added that he would carry on the great work of Councillor Scully. He stated that he looked forward to working with the councillors for the people of Athy.

Resume Standing Orders.
Proposed by Cllr. Lawler,
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.


1. ADOPTION OF MINUTES.

Minutes of February monthly meeting,
Proposed by Cllr Breslin,
Seconded by Cllr Wright.


2. MATTERS ARISING.

Cllr. Breslin referred to page 1 of the minutes and stated that is essential that the meeting of the Kingsgrove/Slievemore sub-committee take place as soon as possible. She also referred to page 2 of the minutes and her point on looking for funding for the Nelson Street houses under the DPG grant scheme to upgrade their heating system, she stated that the heat was going out through the roof, as the radiators were near the ceilings. She also referred to page 7 of the minutes regarding the ESB and asked if a reply had been received from the CEO of the ESB requesting the attendance of himself or an official at one the council’s monthly meetings.

The Town Clerk replied no date had been set for a meeting of the Slievemore/Kingsgrove sub committee as they were awaiting a report on the footpath. With regard to funding of works on the old folks houses in Nelson St, she said we have asked Kildare County Council can we go down the DPG route to fund the works on the heating systems. She added that a letter had been issued to the ESB requesting them to attend a council meeting but no reply has been received yet. She informed the members that senior officials from the ESB had met with senior officials in Kildare County Council.

The Engineer stated that everyone was aware of the fragmented nature of the ESB. He informed the meeting that the ESB had issued a new protocol for requesting services like public lighting to the roads section in Kildare County Council. He stated that he would procure a copy of the protocol from Kildare County Council.

Cllr. Breslin requested that a representative of the ESB be asked to attend the next meeting. Cllr Wright stated that he had tabled a motion on this at the last meeting and also requested that the CEO of the ESB attend the next council meeting. Cllr Dalton supported Cllr Breslin and called on someone from the ESB to attend the meeting.

Cllr Wright referred to page 2 of the minutes and asked was there any further update into when a footbridge would be built; he stated we need the footbridge to provide access to the new swimming pool. He also requested an update on the 1798 monument, and requested the engineer to investigate a bad smell coming from a small box shore flowing into the Barrow. He also drew attention to the lethal turn up to Church Rd, from Leinster St, at the swimming pool and asked that the council write to Mr. Maher. He then referred to page 10 of the minutes and enquired if we had received a reply from the Minister for Education and Science requesting her to attend a council meeting.

The Town Clerk informed Cllr Wright that the council had written to the minister and that the ESB requesting their attendance, and stated it had been agreed that the ESB were to be invited first as they did not want too many representations at the one meeting.

Cllr Lawler informed the meeting that he had spoken to the engineer regarding the 1798 monument and informed the meeting that he would be submitting two new drawings to the engineer within the next couple of days.

The engineer replied that he was awaiting the drawings on the 1798 rebellion, as all he had to date was the sketch circulated and this was insufficient. He stated that the footbridge was an objective of the development plan, and that Athy Town Council was serious about it. Consultants were working on the bridge issues at present. He pointed out that the provision of the footbridge would be costly as the river has to be fit for navigation and all navigation clearance heights have to be met. He added the provision of the footbridge would come down to funding. Referring to the box shore he said we will be doing some CCTV surveys on the west of the town shortly and we will get the contractor to investigate the old box shore on Leinster St.

Cllr Daly referred to the Jetty on page 2 of the minutes and stated that he welcomed the report from the engineer on its taking in charge. He enquired if we would be making a decision on that tonight.

The Cathaoirleach stated that we have the report and suggested that the issue be dealt with now.

Cllr Dalton welcomed the report and stated it appeared the executive did not want it. He stressed that we have to take the long-term view regarding its impact on the tourism potential for the town and look at the wider picture. He added that he thought the council could carry the cost.

The Cathaoirleach stated that the costs of installing the new footpath seemed high.

Cllr Lawler replied that he thought the cost of installing the footpath was cheap when one considered the amount of labour involved in laying a footpath. He said with regard to the €1,200 premium I understand that we had already agreed that it would be paid.

The Town Clerk replied that a refund of the premium was to be made when the agreement was completed.

The Manager stated that the jetty was a valuable asset costing €3000.00 per year to upkeep. He said we need to make sure we can maintain it and added under health and safety; proper training has to be given to staff to maintain it.

Cllr Daly stated that the boating season was now underway and it was important that this be resolved as soon as possible. We are trying to develop this industry for the town, the ball is in our court on this one and I propose that we commence the process of taking the jetty in charge.

That Athy Town Council begin the process of taking the jetty in charge,

Proposed Cllr Daly,
Seconded Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed.

Cllr O’Sullivan referred to page 4 of the minutes and welcomed the reply from the Chief Executive Officer of the HSE.

Cllr English referred to page 8/9 and stated that he wanted the minutes amended to state that he had requested speed ramps.


3. CORRESPONDENCE

· Letter from Mullingar Town Council, seeking support for the following motion that was adopted at a recent meeting of Mullingar Town Council. “That this council urges the Health Services Executive and St. Vincent’s Hospital to provide proper isolation wards for cystic fibrosis patients” All agreed to support the motion.

· Letter from Nenagh Town Council seeking support for the following motion that was adopted by the members of Nenagh Town Council “We at Nenagh Town Council call on the Department of Social and Family Affairs to set up a national waiver system for refuse collection paid for by central government and administered by local government (as requested by the Combat Poverty Agency) for the benefit of the elderly and the unemployed. We also call on the Minister for the Elderly, Deputy Maire Hoctor to publicly support this motion.” All agreed to support this motion.


· Letter from the Department of Health and Children on the cancer services in Naas General Hospital. Cllr O Sullivan welcomed the letter.

· Letter from the HSE regarding the X-ray department at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Athy. Cllr O’Sullivan stated that we need longer hours and that at present there was a four-week waiting list for outpatients. She requested that we write to the HSE asking for extended opening hours two to three days per week and to thank them for their letter.

· Letter from Clonmel Borough Council, seeking support for the following motions that were adopted by Clonmel Borough Council, “that this Bourough Council request all Borough/Town Councils to call on the Minister for Justice to continue t oppose any move by Bookmaker Chains to have gaming machines placed in their offices. This is to help families from returning to poverty status, when parents get hooked on these machines, as happened in Clonmel in the not too distant past.” and “that this Borough Council undertake not to apply any water charges to non-commercial activities such as schools etc” Cllr Lawler stated with regard to the first motion that in 1988 or 1989 Athy Town Council banned gaming machines and he also supported the second motion stating no school should be charged for water as it was not a profit making enterprise and the parents council had to raise the money to pay the water charges. Cllr Wright stated he also supported both motions, and added it was a scandal that schools were being charged for water. All agreed to support the motions.


· Notification of the Local Authority Members Association conference in Trim on the 27th to the 28th of March 2008. It was proposed at the last meeting that Mary O’Sullivan attend.

· Notification of the Kerry Environmental Recognition conference hosted by Rattoo Heritage Society in Ballybunion.

· Notification of the National Planning Conference in Westport on the 3rd and 4th of April.
Cllr English to attend,
Proposed by Cllr Dalton. Seconded by Cllr Lawler. All Agreed.

The Cathaoirleach to attend,
Proposed by Cllr Mary O’Sullivan. Seconded by Cllr English. All Agreed.


· Notification of Local Economic and Social Development Conference on the 21st of April in Limerick.
Cllr. Egan to attend.
Proposed by Cllr. Wright, Seconded by Cllr Lawler. All Agreed.

· Notification of Conference on 1916 Revolution or Betrayal in Wexford on the 19th of April.
Cllr Wright to attend.
Proposed by Cllr. Lawler. Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan. All Agreed.

· Notification of conference on “Water the Challenges for Users” in Cork on the 17th and 18th of April.
Cllr English to attend.
Proposed by Cllr Dalton and seconded by Cllr Lawler. All Agreed

· Notification of conference by the Local Government Anti-Poverty Learning Network on the implementation of phase 2 of Rapid in Tullamore on the 30th of April. It was agreed to defer this to the April meeting.

· Cllr Breslin referred to a request from Athy Anglers Club for funding that had been faxed into the office.
Cllr Breslin proposed that Athy Town Council pay €1000.00 to the Anglers club. Seconded by Cllr Lawler. All agreed.


4. NOTICES OF MOTION.


5. NOTICES OF MOTION; CLLR DALTON AND CLLR ENGLISH


“That this council commences the process of the variation of the Town Development Plan for the process of the removal of objective M1, due to its negative impact on a number of town centre developments”
Speaking on his motion Cllr. Dalton stated that this objective on the development plan was having a negative effect on development in the town. He stated that development was being constrained by that particular route. Cllr English speaking on the motion stated that this route was affecting development as developers were being made to stick with a particular route. Cllr Daly informed the meeting that the review of the development plan would be taking place shortly and the issue of the objective M1 should be dealt with then. He added he did not think it was stopping development he felt it was the planners that were doing that. Cllr Daly stated he was opposing the motion. Cllr Breslin stated that she would not be supporting the motion; this should be looked at when the review of the development plan happens. She informed the meeting that she felt it was the interpretation of the plan by the planners that was the problem. Cllr Wright stated that he would not be supporting the motion as he felt the M1 objective was of paramount importance given the amount of traffic in this town. Cllr O’ Sullivan informed the meeting that she would be opposing the motion also.

The manager replied to Cllr Dalton stating that he wanted to dismiss any suggestion that the planning office was trying to stop development in Athy.

The Cathaoirleach said he knew where the councillors were coming from, though he stated he was unsure of its negative impact on development.

Proposed by Cllr Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr English.
In favour; Cllr English and Cllr Dalton.
Against; The Cathaoirleach, Cllr Breslin, Cllr Lawler, Cllr O’Sullivan, Cllr Wright, Cllr Daly, Cllr Egan.
Motion not carried.




6. NOTICE OF MOTION CLLR DALTON AND ENGLISH.

“That a review of the planning service to this council be carried out as a matter of urgency.”

Speaking on the motion Cllr Dalton stated that Athy Town Council was not getting the planning service required for a population of 10,000 people. He stated Athy Town Council paid a fee every year to Kildare County Council for the service. He said the town manager had no direct input into the planning decisions in the town, the planning director of services made the decision. He argued that Athy Town Council requires a full time service and that pre- planning meetings should be held regularly in Athy. He added, issues that developers thought were resolved at pre-planning meetings seem to resurface again.

Cllr English stated that the planning service received by Athy Town Council from Kildare County Council lacked a business like approach. There was no urgency in treating this town as a priority. He argued it was not acceptable to be bringing people to Naas for pre-planning meetings when the advice should be given here. Cllr Breslin informed the meeting that she shared Cllr Dalton and English’s frustration. She said business was not starting in Athy due to the service from the planning department. Cllr Lawler agreed also 100 per cent with the councillors. He stated that he was adamant the planning section of Kildare County Council used every excuse to stifle development in Athy.

Cllr Daly informed the meeting that Athy was a designated Rapid Town recognised nationally and we get priority over other non-Rapid towns from government departments. Kildare County Council is not treating Athy as a Rapid Town. He said we should get priority from Kildare County Council due to our Rapid status.Cllr Wright stated that he supported the motion and wondered what level of service other areas were getting in the county. Cllr O’Sullivan agreed with the other speakers on the motion and asked why we can’t have a planner on a more regular basis. The Cathaoirleach voiced his support for the motion. He said the role of management was vital and that Athy needed a structured planning service. Athy getting priority as an as a Rapid town was not happening within Kildare County Council.

Cllr Dalton stated that he appreciated the support of the councillors. He stated the downgrading of our planning facilities was a problem across the whole of the county. We set the policy in this area, our powers in this area is being diluted. He added we are not seeing our policy implemented. He said driving to Naas for Pre-planning meetings is not acceptable.

The Town Manager replied that no one was trying to stunt development in Athy and that senior management were working to promote Athy. He stated that the planning process was transparent. He stated that a planner could not be appointed to Athy given the volumes of applications received for the town compared with the rest of the county. He added the director has committed resources to Athy to address the pre-planning problem, and he said he would relay the members concerns to the Director.

Cllr Lawler said that one of the proposals today should be that pre-planning meetings take place every second Wednesday in Athy.

Proposed by Cllr Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr English.
All Agreed.


7. NOTICE OF MOTION CLLR. BRESLIN.

“That Athy Town Council provides adequate resources to carrying out landscaping and planting at the wall currently being constructed between Kingsgrove and the new development by Slievemore Homes Athy.”


Speaking on her motion Cllr. Breslin stated that the people of the area were asking that landscaping and shrubbery be provided.

Cllr Lawler stated that he supported the motion and stated that we should have ensured that the developer had made provision for the planting and landscaping. Cllr. Dalton said he supported the motion also, and that it had taken a long time to get agreement between the residents and the developer. He added that the cost of this should not be major and stated that we need to restore the faith of the people of the area in the council, given the history surrounding the development. Cllr. Daly stated that the residents had lost their privacy, and that the estate had suffered a lot. He added all their planting was ripped out and that we should should find the money somewhere to restore the area. Cllr Wright stated he supported the motion and said the people up there had suffered enough. Cllr O’Sullivan informed the meeting that she supported the motion and agreed with the statements.

The Town Clerk suggested that the council make a contribution to the planting and landscaping and that the Slievemore/Kingsgrove sub-committee should decide on the planting. She said the council should offer its assistance rather than organise the landscaping.

The Town Engineer stated that the detail of what is to be planted would have to be discussed at the sub-committee as their has to be agreement on what has to be done.

Proposed by Cllr. Breslin,
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed.


8. NOTICE OF MOTION CLLR. O’SULLIVAN.


“That the Town Council see that the road markings within the town’s boundary be repainted in the near future.”

Speaking on the motion Cllr O’Sullivan stated that she had noticed that all of the road markings were very faded. She asked would it be feasible to put a yellow box at the junction on Duke St at the entrance to St. John’s Lane. She also enquired if it would be possible to paint the disabled car parking spaces in a different colour, as is done in other towns.

Cllr Daly supported the motion and asked would the town council and Kildare County Council look at safety signs, for example the black spot at Ardreigh. Cllr Wright stated that the white line near the swimming pool was very faded. He also asked if an official from Kildare County Council’s roads department would attend a council meeting. Cllr. Egan also supported Cllr. O’Sullivan’s motion and stated that cars stopping in yellow boxes were a major problem. Cllr. Breslin enquired could a meeting be arranged with the area engineer.

The engineer informed the members that this week he had two lengthy meetings with the area engineer regarding roads.

The Town Clerk replied that the town engineer is discussing the road works programmes with the area engineer. She added, with regard to traffic stopping in yellow boxes, it has been raised at the JPC meeting and agreed that the Gardaí are to monitor this.

The Town Manager informed the members that these concerns should be forwarded to the area committee.

Proposed by Cllr O’Sullivan,
Seconded by Cllr Daly.
All Agreed.


9. CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS.

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that the new Town Clerk Brian O’Gorman would be taking up his post on the 14th of April. He also thanked the Arts and Culture sub-committee for their work last Sunday the 16th of March in organising the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Emily Square. He said it had been a pilot operation and hoped we would build on it in future years. He thanked all who had made it a success.


10. MANAGERS BUSINESS

The engineer stated that he had circulated a list of schemes for consideration for the Road Block Grant and the members would need to prioritise which works should be done this year. He informed the meeting that the 2008 block road grant was €287,000.00.

Cllr Wright referred to Garter lane and said some of the works listed should have been financed from development levies and he asked where is this money being spent. He added everything on this list needs to be done.

Cllr Lawler drew the engineer’s attention to the area in front of the council’s depot on the Dublin Rd. on the list and asked should development levies from the apartments built nearby not be used for this.

Cllr O’Sullivan asked for an update on disability access in the town. The engineer replied that a disability audit had been carried out.

Cllr Daly said that he had serious concerns for pedestrians on the Ardreigh Rd.

The Cathaoirleach asked the engineer for an update on the Ardreigh Scheme.

The engineer replied that it was a regional road and that the scheme would provide improvements for pedestrians when the scheme was complete.

The Cathaoirleach stated that a special meeting should be held to deal with the road block grant.

Cllr Wright enquired if Kildare County Council’s had any plans for traffic calming measures in front of the pea factory in Rathstewart.

The engineer replied that the area engineer had plans for that area.

The Town Clerk informed the meeting that €3,000.00 had been approved for a litter awareness campaign, to supply a bus to the amenity centre and vouchers for the centre. She stated this was to raise awareness of what happens in the civic amenity centre and to encourage increased use of the centre. She said the dates on which it will take place will be advertised.


10. REPORT FROM SUB-COMMITTEES.

Cllr Daly circulated a report on Rapid and Action for Youth and stated that €66,000.00 funding had been secured for playground through Rapid.

The Town Clerk informed the meeting that the trip to Grandvilliers was set for the 9th of May and 24 flights had been booked and that the youth exchange funding had been approved today for the July trip.

The Town Clerk referred to the great work of the arts sub committee in organising the St. Patrick’s celebrations in the Emily square.

The Town Clerk informed the meeting that the remedial scheme was advertised in the Nationalist today. She stated the plans had gone to every resident and were up for viewing in the council offices library and CDP. The closing date for submission is the 28th of March. It was agreed to hold a meeting when all the submissions had been received.

The Town Clerk also informed the meeting that works on the youth café were on target.


12. PLANNING REGISTER



13. OTHER BUSINESS.

Cllr Lawler asked that the concrete bollards left at the entrance to Flinter’s Place after the ESB pole had been removed be taken away. He added that since the road at Dooley’s Terrace had been widened it was being used as a car park. He also referred to the bookies signs on the footpath outside of the council offices and at the primary and stated that the policy on signs on footpaths should be enforced.

Cllr Breslin asked the Town Clerk what is the situation in relation to taxi ranks.

Cllr Daly noted the loss of one of the members of the press, due to the closure of the Kildare Voice and expressed his regret at her untimely layoff. He also asked that Athy Town Council write to the Tri Athy group and offer our assistance.

Cllr. O’Sullivan requested that Athy Town Council write to the family of Mary Claire Collins and expresses the council’s sympathy at her death.

The Cathaoirleach passed a vote of sympathy for the Collins family on the death of their daughter Mary Claire. He also passed a vote of sympathy to the family of Evelyn Bracken who had been a member of Kildare VEC for over 20 years and been on Naas Town Council.


THIS CONCLUDED THE MEETING


CATHAOIRLEACH ________________________


DATE _______________________

Agenda for April 08 Meeting

NOTICE OF APRIL MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY, THE 16TH of APRIL, 2008 AT 7.30 P.M. IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

AGENDA

1. Minutes of March Monthly Meeting held on the 19th of March, 2008.
Minutes of Carbury Park Remedial Meeting on the 1st of April 2008
Minutes of Retail Strategy Meeting 13th of March 2008

2. Matters Arising.

3. Correspondence.

4. Notices of Motion

Councillor Wright:
5. “That we as a council impose a cap on all rent increases on our local authority houses where social welfare recipients and low wages income families are concerned as budget rises are meaning less when this council takes it from them in rent increase. Getting from Peter to pay Paul.”

6. “That we as a council looks at the possibility in our next estimates of providing money to finance rubbish skips in housing estates when needed as working class people have genuinely no where to dispose of non domestic rubbish.”

7. “That we as a Council take immediate steps under our derelict site act and authority to either take over or demand a complete clean up of what is know as the Anglers Rest on Leinster St as the filth and dirt and smell coming out of the broken windows is a slight and a blight on our town of Athy.”

Councillor O’Sullivan:

8. “That the Town Council could replace the life buoys on river especially between town and Railway Bridge.”





Councillor Daly:

9. “That Athy Town Council ensures that the pump out station on our waterways is commissioned immediately and put into service to be available for this year’s tourist season.”

10. “That Athy Town Council in the interest of safety replaces the footpath which was removed in Graysland with minimum damage to existing trees.”

Councillor Breslin:

11. “That Athy Town Council investigates and provides a mechanism for dealing with the situation of non residents causing problems in Butler’s Lane and that the council has the area cleaned up to include the removal of litter and overgrown shrubbery.”

12. “That a report be given on the reasons for the delay in the starting of a housing development at Woodstock St Athy and that in light of the current anti-social behaviour problems that are occurring in the area that further measures be put in place to secure the site.”

Councillor Egan:

13. “That Athy Town Council maintains to an acceptable standard all their vacant houses ensuring that they do not deteriorate or fall into use for anti-social behaviour until such time as they are occupied.”

14. “That Athy Town Council immediately erects signs informing the public that it is an offence for dogs to litter in public areas and stating the fines for such an occurrence.”

15. “Can Athy Town Council clean up the walkway by the river Barrow on the Carlow road as a matter of urgency considering the beauty of the area and how such littering is affecting such amenity.”



16. Cathaoirleach’s Business.


17. Manager’s Business.
· 2008 Block Grant
· Retail Strategy
· Methodist Church


18 Report from Sub Committees

· Athy Town Twinning.
· Arts sub committee.
· Remedial Scheme.
· Rapid.
· Youth Café.
· Cemetery


19. Planning Register.


20. Other Business.


Brian O’ Gorman,
Town Clerk.