Minutes of Ennis Municipal District Meeting January 2025

Minutes of Ennis Municipal District Meeting January 2025

Present:

Councillors attending:

Councillor C. Colleran-Molloy (Cathaoirleach)

Councillor M. Howard (Leas-Cathaoirleach)

Councillor P. Murphy

Councillor T. O’Callaghan

Councillor T. Guilfoyle

Councillor A. Baker Bashua

Councillor P. Daly

 

Officials attending in person:

Sean Lenihan, Acting Director of Service

Paddy Tiernan, Acting Senior Executive Engineer

Niamh O’Connor, Administrative Officer and Meetings Administrator

Lily McInerney, Staff Officer (minutes).

 

Apologies:

None.

 

Presiding:

Chair Cllr. Clare Colleran Molloy opened the meeting and wished everyone a very happy new year.

 

Votes of sympathy

None.

 

Item 1: Minutes of December 2024 Meeting of Ennis Municipal District held on 10^th December 2024.

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

“That the December 2024 Minutes of Ennis Municipal District be adopted.”

Item 2: Matters Arising

None.

Item 3: GMA Allocations

Cllr P. Murphy advised that he is a Board Member of Ennis Community CE Scheme and that he would withdraw from the Meeting during this discussion.

 

Councillor	Beneficiary	Amount	Conflict of Interest Declared
Cllr Paul Murphy	Ennis Community Employment Scheme	€2,000.00	P. Murphy
Cllr Tom O'Callaghan	Holy Family School	€1,000.00
Cllr Tom O’Callaghan	Slainte an Chlair	€3,000.00
Cllr Tom O'Callaghan	Cois na hAbhana	€1,000.00
Cllr Tom O'Callaghan	Clarecastle Comhaltas	€1,000.00
Total		€8,000.00

 

Item 1

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard Cuidithe ag Cllr. A. Baker Bashua, agus glacadh leis

 

Items 2 – 4      

Ar moladh Cllr. A. Baker Bashua Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. Guilfoyle, agus glacadh leis

 

Item 4: Notice of Motion No. 1 Platform Improvement Temple Gate Bus Shelter

Ar moladh Cllr. T. O’Callaghan Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. Guilfoyle, agus glacadh leis

 

No. 1     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T O’Callaghan

To request concreting all the base of the Templegate bus shelter due to considerable public usage.

 

Donnagh Murphy, Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

 

Ennis MD can confirm we will meet this request and will aim to install same within the next few weeks – weather permitting.

 

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. T. Guilfoyle and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr O’Callaghan welcomed the response to the Motion highlighting the benefit to the many bus service users.

 

Item 5: Notice of Motion No. 2 Footpath continuation to Edenvale

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy, agus glacadh leis

No. 2    Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Daly

I ask Ennis M.D. to continue the footpath on the Kilrush Road, particularly from Rockmount Cross to its overall completion at the 6 no. two-storey houses on the hill close to Edenvale.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Ennis MD estimate the total length of new footpath requested to be approximately 280m. Ennis MD will carry out an assessment of this area and prepare a design for Section 38 approval within the coming months. As the proposed footpath is within the curtilage of the N68, formal approval of any new scheme will be required from the TII. A funding source will also have to be identified for such a scheme.

This item was seconded by Cllr P. Murphy and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Daly highlighted the advantage in having this footpath continued through Edenvale.

Cllr Murphy seconded this Motion hoping that the required funding can be sourced. Cllr Colleran Molloy also supported this Motion having raised it herself in the past.

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer clarified that at present there is no funding for the proposed project, that NTA and TII funding allocations are to be announced towards the end of January and this project will not be included. The intention is to advance a Section 38 for the scheme which would improve the chances of attaining the required funding.

 

Item 6: Notice of Motion No. 3 Ennis Town Centre Parking

Ar moladh Cllr. A. Baker Bashua Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy

No. 3     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. A. Baker Bashua                                                

Ennis Town Centre Parking

That Ennis Municipal District conduct a feasibility study on the potential of implementing a new parking model in the town centre to enhance turnover and accessibility. Specifically, I propose the following:

 

1. Designate Abbey Street car park as a 1-hour maximum parking area ensuring a consistent turnover of spaces and ensure availability for short shopping visits. 

 

2. Adjust parking durations in the surrounding car parks, with the nearest offering a 2-hour maximum and those slightly further out allowing for up to 3 hours and 4 hours, catering to those who need longer stays.

 

This tiered approach would create more frequent availability of parking spaces in the town centre, addressing current issues of congestion and limited parking options. It would encourage quick visits for shopping or business, ensuring that customers with short errands can find spaces conveniently. Meanwhile, those requiring longer parking durations would still have options within a reasonable distance of the town centre.

 

This initiative aims to make Ennis town centre more accessible and attractive to visitors, supporting local businesses and fostering a more dynamic flow of traffic and parking usage.

  

Sean Lenihan, A/Director of Services, responded as follows:

I was delighted to read this Motion as Members will be aware that it is something that we as an Executive have been advocating for, over some considerable time now. What is described is essentially a Parking Byelaw Review and it is welcome indeed to see political, and indeed from recent meetings, business support, for such a measure. It will not come without its challenges but given that over 60% of Town Centre Parking in Abbey Street Carpark is taken up all day, every day by Business owners and their staff, it is imperative that a review be carried out and new byelaws are introduced for the benefits of the many other shoppers and visitors to the Town and Environs.

 

The format of such a review will be open and transparent with elements of stakeholder engagement workshops and also suitable public consultation and notice. I would hope to initiate the preliminary work required shortly and will keep the members and business owners suitably informed.

  

This item was seconded by Cllr. P. Murphy and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr Baker Bashua elaborated on the ethos of this Motion, namely, to facilitate individuals as well as protect businesses and services in town centre. She added different parking time lengths are essential to optimise parking.

 

Cllr Murphy seconded the Notice of Motion was delighted with the response from Sean Lenihan.

Cllr O’Callaghan supported the Motion, recommending that the review explore innovative ways of optimising current parking spaces.

Cllr Howard supported the Motion and stressed the need to find an alternative arrangement for business permit holders and staff. The customer must be given priority for the economic good of the town.

Cllr Daly supported the Motion suggesting an arrangement with the multi-storey car park for employees in town. He added that 1-hour parking in certain key areas is necessary to allow for quick stop-offs.

Cllr Guilfoyle, in support, added that he hoped the study will help to inform optimal parking arrangements.

Cllr Colleran Molloy commended the timing of this Motion with the arrival of the Ennis public bus service and completion of the public realm works.

Sean Lenihan advised that empirical evidence from recent surveys demonstrates that 62% of parking in the Abbey Street Carpark is taken up all day everyday by Business owners and their staff resulting in reduced availability for the Customer. He reminded Members that related to the Ennis Town Bus Service, it is hoped to include some Park & Ride facilities in appropriate locations at the edge of Town which would be enormously beneficial in reducing the number of cars entering the Town Centre. Sean concluded by saying that the process of reviewing and hopefully renewing the Byelaws would now commence.

Item 7: Notice of Motion No. 4 Upgrade of Bus Stops in Ennis M.D.

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

No. 4    Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. Guilfoyle

Upgrade of Bus Stops in Ennis Municipal District.

That the Ennis Municipal District, in collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders, initiate and expedite a project to upgrade all bus stops within the district by providing adequate coverings and seating facilities.

• Numerous constituents have raised concerns about the lack of shelter and seating at bus stops, highlighting the discomfort and inconvenience they face in adverse weather conditions. This is especially pressing for those relying on public transport for daily commutes to work.
• In 2025, as we continue to encourage the use of public transport over private vehicles for environmental and congestion reasons, it is vital to ensure that the experience of public transport users is as comfortable and convenient as possible.
• Tourists visiting our region often express surprise and dissatisfaction at the absence of covered bus stops. Enhancing these facilities is essential to improve their experience and uphold the reputation of our region as a welcoming destination.

If similar motions have been passed in the past, then an update on any progress made on this issue, particularly the bus-stops between Clarecastle and Ennis, along with a clear timeline for the implementation of necessary improvements would be greatly appreciated. 

 

Eamon O’Dea, Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

The National Transport Authority and Clare County Council are planning to launch two new town bus services for Ennis in late 2025 or early 2026, subject to final confirmation of funding availability. The two routes NS1 Clarecastle to Ballymaley & NS2 Tulla Road to Shanaway Road will operate at a 30-minute frequency in each direction, with a bus approximately every 15 minutes in each direction along the shared central spine.

The detailed design of the bus stop locations is underway and should be completed by Q2 2025. The provision of bus shelters is considered as part of the design of the bus stop, however the confined public space available at a considerable number of bus stop locations restricts the provision of bus shelters.

The NTA are also working on upgrading of the Ennis and Shannon 330 bus service and this may result in some of the bus stops being completed in advance of the Town Bus Service.

Where Active Travel Cycle schemes are in design or progressing to construction phases such as the Tulla Rd and Clare Road, the permanent bus stops will be constructed as part of these schemes and functional bus stops with bus stop sign and road marking will be provided in the interim.

The NTA Town Bus Team intend to complete the design of the bus stops by Q2 2025, construct the bus stops in Q3-4 2025 and the operational contract should be tendered in Q1 2025 with an operator in place by Q3-4 2025. The key programme concern is the construction timelines for the Bus Stops.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Guilfoyle stressed the need for accessible, covered, quality bus stops and he requested further consideration be given to some form of minimal shelter to those stops with space issues. He also highlighted the plight of a wheelchair user for whom every journey requires the laying of a manual ramp at Lifford Road bus stop.

Cllr O’Callaghan supported the Motion, understanding the challenges described in the response, he stated that every effort should be made to deliver on the highest possible standard.

Cllr Murphy wholeheartedly supported the Motion in particular because students and elderly people tend to be the most regular users of bus services, and they should be deemed a priority.

Cllr Daly stressed the need for all bus stops to be covered and have seating.

Cllr Baker Bashua emphasised the requirement to prioritise those with disabilities.

Cllr Howard supported the Motion, adding that public transport must be an attractive alternative to private vehicles and that weather conditions have a huge influence.

Cllr Guilfoyle thanked his fellow Members for their support.

 

Item 8: Notice of Motion No. 5 Trip to Kayak Le Chéile Scoil Chríost Rí

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. Guilfoyle, agus glacadh leis

No. 5    Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. M. Howard

Ennis is surrounded by the River Fergus, this River has huge potential that has yet to be released.

I request that Ennis MD organise a morning after Easter to kayak / paddle on the River Fergus with Scoil Chríost Rí - Kayak Le Chéile.

This invited group would include members of the Executive, Ennis MD Councillors and local media.

 

Sean Lenihan, A/Director of Services, responded as follows:

Absolutely, great idea and one that we would be interested in taking up. To this end, I have previously spoken with key staff members in the School and will engage further with them to arrange a mutually suitable date once the weather improves somewhat.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. T. Guilfoyle and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr Howard briefed the meeting on the positive initiative undertaken by the school and how it was enhanced by some infrastructure and has grown into a very exciting extracurricular activity for school children and adults alike. She highlighted that kayaking provides the benefit of a different perspective on a town. It would be important for Members, staff and media to come along and see how this initiative has progressed and make a feature out of it.

Cllr Guilfoyle seconded the Motion adding that the river Fergus is the main feature of Ennis and Clarecastle and this activity fits wonderfully with our remit to seek out innovative tourism products for the area. Kayaking provides an opportunity for the river to really feature for Ennis.

Cllr Colleran Molloy supported the Motion.

Cllr O’Callaghan added that he would be delighted to partake in this event and that the river gives a different perspective and would be a great addition to our tourism offering.

Cllr Daly supported adding that the tourism potential from the river is enormous and one can witness people sitting by the river to have lunch so any activity that features the river will be positive for Ennis.

 

Item 9: Notice of Motion No. 6 Update on Clarecastle & Ballybeg Projects

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

No. 6    Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Murphy       

Please provide an update on the proposed timescale of deliverance of the following projects that I have proposed, and that have been passed by previous meetings of Ennis Municipal District;

1. i) Construction of footpath and associated improved safety works in the vicinity of The Village Shop, Clarecastle & Clarecastle Daycare Centre
2. ii) Widening of existing concrete carriageway & installation of traffic calming speed humps & associated ancillary works at St. Joseph's Terrace, Clarecastle

iii) Installation of Traffic Calming & Completion of Footpaths at Ballybeg Bridge/Kildysart Road Junction.

 

Kevin Carroll, Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Ennis MD can report that the projects listed above have both relevant approvals and a source of funding in place. With regard to the specific projects:-

• The works in the vicinity of The Village Shop Clarecastle will commence by the end of January and will be completed within approximately 3 weeks of the start date.

• Works in St Joseph’s Terrace will commence in late Summer 2025 once the Roadworks Programme is complete. The expected duration of the works is approximately 4 weeks from the start date.

• The works in Ballybeg will commence week beginning 27^th January 2025 and will be complete by the end of March.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. Colleran Molloy and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Murphy thanked Kevin for the response and was delighted to be informed that two of the projects will be completed in the near future, that the work outlined in No. (i) above will render the area much safer than it currently is.

No. (ii) the work in St. Joseph’s Terrace is badly required, this will discourage inappropriate parking and poor driver behaviour.

Cllr Colleran Molloy was delighted to second this Motion.

Cllr Guilfoyle supported the Motion, thanked EMD staff. He welcomed the proposed works, in particular those at St. Joseph’s Terrace.

Cllr O’Callaghan in support described these projects as local politics working at its best.

Cllr Colleran Molloy also thanked Paddy and the team for their dedication in these projects.

 

Item 10: Notice of Motion No. 7 Public Realm Works Update for businesses and general public

Ar moladh Cllr. T. O’Callaghan Cuidithe ag Cllr. M. Howard, agus glacadh leis

No. 7   Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan

To ask the Executive please provide a detailed report on the next phase of our public realm works and a timeline to the local businesses directly affected plus the public at large. The priority is to minimise trade disruption in the interest of customers access and viability of their business going forward. 

 

Shane O’Grady, Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

The appointed contractor Shareridge Ltd resumed work activity onsite on the 6^th January 2025, upon the conclusion of the Christmas construction moratorium.   The relative calm of the Festive season has now been interrupted by the re-appearance of machinery and construction fencing. While not always welcome, such disruption is central to any infrastructural project of this nature, and the contractor and project team are doing everything possible to keep disruption to a minimum.

The contractor is at present reviewing their internal resourcing, and we look forward to completion of the works in 2025, in line with contract.   The Phasing plan and Works schedule as issued previously in November 2024 is attached. The contractor is now working in accordance with this plan, which is constantly under review so as to expedite earlier handover of areas wherever possible.

 

 

Works schedule

Phase	Street Name	Start	Finish
1	O’Connell Street / Carmody Street Area	Resume works / February 2025	March 2025
2A	O’Connell Street / Market Street to Station Road / Snagging	January 2025	March 2025
2B	High Street/Snagging	January 2025	March 2025
3	O'Connell Square (Street Fountain and Public Realm works)	February 2025	Q3 2025
4	Abbey Street junction & Bank Place	April 2025	Q4 2025
5	Market Street to O'Connell Square	Works resumed Jan 2025	March 2025
6A	O’Connell Street / Cathedral area	Commenced (January 2025)	Q3 2025
6B	Barrack Square	March 2025	Q4 2025

 

Consultation with impacted traders and stakeholders is ongoing, and the contractor has appointed a Public Liaison Officer in this regard, in line with Works Requirements. A focused Stakeholder Consultation event was held on 9^th December 2024 to review the updated phasing plan and inform stakeholders as to upcoming works phases.   The contractor is also issuing weekly newsletters to inform of upcoming works. (Subscribe to ennispublicrealmb@shareridge.ie). The contractor, project team, and Clare County Council Resident Engineering staff are available to help traders and the public with any concerns and to mitigate impacts from the works wherever possible.

It continues to be necessary to close streets to allow these works to be completed safely, and the project team and contractor, together with Ennis MD, are working hard to coordinate activities to keep traffic impacts to a minimum and ensure that Ennis is kept open for business throughout the remaining months of this project. In areas of narrow street width, works will be completed Out of Hours so as to minimise impact on trade and facilitate pedestrian movement through these street sections.   Noting the transformation of O’Connell Street and High Street as witnessed during the Christmas period, we look forward to an exciting future for the remaining areas to be completed (Cathedral area, Barrack Square, O’Connell Square, Bank Place).   We trust that the long term benefits as delivered under this project will far out-live the memory of the challenges currently being navigated as the works proceed throughout 2025.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. M. Howard and agreed by all Members.

Cllr O’Callaghan acknowledged the response and commented on how well the town looked during the festive season and moratorium on public realm works.  

Cllr Howard seconded the Motion, she welcomed the timelines and remarked on the positivity generated from a glimpse of what the finished product will look like.

Cllr Baker Bashua agreed that the preview would generate positivity as the next stage of the works progress. Cllr Daly added that he had heard many positive comments over the festive season and he emphasised the importance of effective communication with all stakeholders.

Cllr Colleran Molloy remarked on the great work done over many years, with Sean Lenihan himself at the helm when the project was initiated. There is now a clearer vision of how Ennis will look and having emerged from the process, will likely become the envy of other towns.

Sean Lenihan informed that the Council had secured a public liaison officer employed by the contractor for the duration of the works. In addition, a review will be undertaken as to how businesses have been affected throughout.

 

Item 11: Notice of Motion No. 8 Meeting with Gardai re Anti Social Behaviour

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

No. 8   Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Daly                                                     

I request Ennis M.D. to look at the serious anti social behaviour that’s occurring in Ennis presently, with a view to arranging an urgent meeting that will include the local Supt. and Gardaí, the business representatives of the town and people from the general public, so that something can be done to alleviate this very serious situation that is not helping the town of Ennis in any way.                           

 

Sean Lenihan, A/Director of Services, responded as follows:

 

I note the Members concerns but I wouldn’t like it to be portrayed that there is serious anti-social behaviour ongoing in Ennis. Yes, there have been a number of localised incidents, most recently over the Christmas period which unfortunately quickly spread across social media platforms. However, in my opinion, this is very much the exception rather than the rule.

 

That being said, even one serious incident is one too many and we should and will do everything in our power to eliminate these from happening. We routinely meet with the local Garda Superintendent and Gardai in Ennis on a multi-agency basis. Moreover, we held a very useful meeting with the Clare Tipperary Garda Division Chief Superintendent and her Senior Staff just before Christmas. Related, we also routinely meet with the Business Representative bodies such as the Chamber and the Retailers of Ennis Group. These meetings will continue and indeed become more regular, once the new Local Community Safety Forum (which is replacing the former Joint Policing Committee for Clare is formally established by the new Government. As always, we will keep members and the community informed of developments.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr Daly emphasised that he is not suggesting that there is a lot of anti-social behaviour in town, but there have been incidents, and the time has come to meet with local gardai and with public and other representatives, to look at how to address this issue.

Cllr O’Callaghan seconded the motion, stating that this is an issue for society in general, not just for Ennis and it is imperative that we look at resourcing of An Garda Siochana as there is a very real shortage of numbers on patrol duty and the current community force should at least be doubled.

 

Cllr Guilfoyle stated that this issue had been brought to his attention and whilst we must be careful not to portray Ennis in a poor light, some neighbourhoods are affected by incidents and he believed that the extra Gardai and the installation of CCTV would be a considerable deterrent. Under resourcing leads to the risk of increased criminality and it is incumbent on us to do our part in protecting the public.

Cllr Baker Bashua in support added that whilst there may be just a few ASB incidents by a minority in the community, each one has a far-reaching effect on the broader community with people being afraid to go out and afraid of being targeted. She added that 80% of new Gardai are recruited to Dublin to the detriment of the rest of the country.

Cllr Howard stated that Ennis Members know that they are custodians of the town and are naturally horrified at recent events. Everything possible must be done to nip this problem in the bud and prevent it gaining any momentum.

Cllr Colleran Molloy stressed that elected representatives take this issue very seriously and cannot stand by and allow a small cohort of people to break the law.

 

Sean Lenihan stated that whilst acknowledging the recent issue on the Mill Road, most incidents are isolated and thankfully not frequent. He advised of that Ennis MD have regular meetings with An Garda Siochana and thanked AGS for the increased presence of Gardai on the ground in the Town Centre over the Christmas period. There is a strong relationship between the Council and the Gardai and he could assure Members that the issues raised in this Motion are equally frustrating to them. Sean undertook to forward the points raised at this Meeting to Chief Superintendent Aileen Magnier.

Cllr Daly thanked Sean and the Members for their support and concluded that we have a beautiful town but that what happened on Christmas Day was disgraceful and we cannot allow it.

He suggested that the Superintendent or Chief Superintendent be invited to brief the Ennis M.D. Members in due course.

 

Item 12: Notice of Motion No. 9 Pedestrian Crossings at Ennis Roundabouts

Ar moladh Cllr. A. Baker Bashua Cuidithe ag Cllr. M. Howard, agus glacadh leis

No. 9 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. A. Baker Bashua

Pedestrian Crossings at Ennis Roundabouts

 

That Ennis Municipal District invests in installing safe pedestrian crossing points at all roundabouts within the town.

 

Currently, many roundabouts in Ennis lack clearly defined pedestrian crossings, leaving pedestrians without priority and creating unsafe conditions, particularly for the elderly and young people. 

 

Critical locations include Lifford Roundabout, Gort Road Roundabout, Maid of Erin Roundabout, Tobarteascain Roundabout, The Hawthorns/Westfields Roundabout, Clare Road Roundabout, Station Road Roundabout, Francis Street/Clon Road Roundabout, New Road Roundabout, Lifford/Clon Road Roundabout.

 

As a positive example, the Tulla Road Roundabout at Oakleigh Woods features designated pedestrian crossings on either side, complete with road markings and proper lighting. This design ensures safe and visible pedestrian access and could serve as a model for all other locations.

 

The lack of safe pedestrian crossings discourages walking and poses a significant safety risk for residents navigating these busy roads. Implementing a better system of marked crossings with appropriate signage and lighting would not only enhance pedestrian safety but also promote walking as a practical and enjoyable mode of transport, fostering a more pedestrian-friendly and sustainable town environment.

 

This motion seeks to prioritise the well-being of all residents and visitors by making our roads safer and our community more accessible.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Pedestrian safety is a high priority item for the Ennis Municipal District team. Over the past 24 months considerable efforts have been made to install additional pedestrian crossings throughout Ennis with in excess of 20 projects completed. These projects have been funded by the NTA under the Connecting and Co-Creating Scheme and have certainly increased the safety conditions for pedestrians in many areas of the town. To date the main focus of this project has been at junction locations rather than at roundabouts.

The lack of appropriate pedestrian crossings, designed to modern standards, in the vicinity of roundabouts within Ennis has been well made within this Notice of Motion. Each roundabout as listed above has its own unique set of challenges in terms of engineering solutions. We would like to inform Elected Members that it is the intention to upgrade the roundabouts along the Limerick Road, Cusack Road and Gort Road along with the proposed cycle schemes for these roads. Roundabouts along Clon Rd are currently being assessed by both Ennis MD and the Roads Department. At present possible solutions being explored included changing at least some of these roundabouts to signalised junctions.  

We must caution that the above measures will take considerable time and financial resources to compete in their totality.

Ennis MD will continue to make incremental improvements for pedestrian safety throughout the town.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. M. Howard and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Baker Bashua stressed that there are some roundabouts, such as Tulla Road, Clareabbey and roads such as Lifford Road, where it is virtually impossible for a pedestrian to safely cross the road, especially after dark. She highlighted the benefit of the pedestrian crossing at Oakleigh Wood and would like to see this replicated throughout the town.

Cllr Howard seconded the Motion advising that she has always had a concern around the Maid of Eireann roundabout due to the number of schools in the vicinity. She noted that pedestrian safety had been the common thread running through all Motions for the first meeting of the year. She acknowledged the roll out of the Connecting and Co-creating project which had improved permeability in the town.

Cllr Murphy supported the Motion and welcomed the positive response from Paddy Tiernan.

Cllr O‘Callaghan highlighted the fact that roundabouts bring other issues such as pedestrian safety and the speeding traffic at Clareabbey is a real cause for concern.

Cllr Daly stressed the importance of safe pedestrian crossing throughout the town and Oakleigh is a great example of success which needs to be replicated elsewhere.

Cllr Guilfoyle concluded that all Members are united in seeking the safety of our citizens, and that Clareabbey roundabout is the area of highest concern in terms of pedestrian safety.

Cllr Baker Bashua thanked Members and the executive for supporting her Motion.

 

Item 13: Notice of Motion No. 10 Installation of CCTV in Ennis Municipal District

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

No. 10 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. Guilfoyle                                                 

Installation of CCTV in Ennis Municipal District.

That the Ennis Municipal District Council, in collaboration with relevant authorities and community stakeholders, undertake the installation of CCTV cameras across key locations within the district, focusing particularly on areas that are currently experiencing anti-social behaviour and criminal activities. 

1. Community Concerns:

Residents throughout the Municipal District have expressed an urgent need for enhanced security measures. Recent reports from Patrick Street and Church Drive in Clarecastle highlight incidents of criminal damage to property and vehicles, underscoring the necessity for responsive action.

2. Crime Deterrence and Safety Enhancement:

The presence of CCTV can act as a significant deterrent to potential offenders, thereby reducing incidents of criminal behaviour. It also aids law enforcement in quickly addressing and resolving criminal activities, contributing to a safer community environment.

3. Supporting Vibrant Communities:

It is imperative for the continued growth and well-being of our communities that public spaces remain safe and welcoming. Installing CCTV is a proactive step towards ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy a secure atmosphere across all areas of the Municipal District.

 

Sean Lenihan, A/Director of Services, responded as follows:

Members will be aware that I responded to quite a similar motion in recent times and my response today is broadly similar. Yes, I agree that appropriately located CCTV certainly acts as a deterrent and most good citizens going about their business don’t have a difficulty with same. That being said, there are strict laws and procedures governing the use of CCTV in Community areas, some of the main challenges being having a legal basis for such activity and compliance with the GDPR legislation.

The notion of enhancing and replacing our current CCTV cameras supported by the roll out of some new cameras is something that was discussed at the aforementioned recent meeting with the senior ranks of An Garda Siochana. Moreover, further meetings on this matter are taking place internally with the various sections of the Council, after which further meetings will be arranged with the appropriate decision makers in An Garda Siochana. I will advise the members of the outcome of these discussions as they become clearer.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Guilfoyle advised that whilst he could understand the response it was of paramount importance to see the establishment of CCTV as a means to prevent and limit anti-social behaviour and criminality.

Cllr O’Callaghan seconded the Motion, highlighting that this Motion has been raised in the last year and has yet to be progressed. If supermarkets are allowed to have CCTV, then there should be no issue with generalised CCTV and this is something Ennis M.D. needs to drive forward.

Cllr Daly supported the motion highlighting that the camera tells a story and it is only a criminal who has to fear this. We need to address this with our Oireachtas Members and get their support on this.

Cllr Howard expressed frustration that CCTV schemes appear to be widely used across the country, and she would welcome more clarity on why it can’t be implemented.

Cllr Baker Bashua supported the motion adding that cameras will not solve everything but will act as a deterrent to illegal dumping and generally make people feel safer.

Sean Lenihan highlighted that there is unity of purpose on this issue and there is no doubt that a CCTV scheme would act as a deterrent. Sean advised that he raised this at the recent meeting with Chief Supt. Aileen Magnier just before Christmas. He further advised that before today’s meeting he had met with the Council’s IS Officer, as well as with the Data Protection Officer on this matter and they would be further contact made with the appropriate persons in An Garda Siochana to progress matters. Cllr Guilfoyle concluded thanking Members for the support and stating it was very positive that we all in agreement on the issue. CCTV, he believed, would have a significant impact on anti social behaviour.

Item 14: Notice of Motion No. 11 Air Quality Monitoring in Ennis

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan, agus glacadh leis

No. 11   Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. M. Howard

Over the last number of years air quality in Ennis has been described as "dangerously high" and "very concerning”.

We even had a headline in the media describing the air quality in Ennis has been worse that China's capital Beijing on a number of occasions and air pollution was also seven times higher than Shanghai!

I am requesting Ennis MD to 

1. Install more Air Quality Monitors throughout the Ennis MD 

2  Develop a Clean Air Strategy for Ennis.

3  Ensure more inspections by our staff in the Environment Department to carry out more inspections of solid fuel producers and retailers to ensure only compliant fuel is being sold following the 2022 ban on "smoky coal" in all counties.

 

Brendan Flynn, Senior Executive Engineer, Environment Section responded as follows:

The Environment Section secured funding from the Department of Environment Climate and Communication for the installation of air quality monitors across Ennis town and its environs for 2025. The purpose of this monitoring is 2-fold. Firstly, we will gather information on air quality in geographically different parts of Ennis and with housing of different types and construction dates. Secondly, this will give Clare County Council and the EPA more reference points that can be used to predict air quality forecasting more accurately and to provide additional data sets of air quality for comparison purposes. Once this is known we can address issues at a more local level and with a targeted approach.

The recent introduction of the Air Pollution Act 1987 (Solid Fuels) Regulations 2022 has thus far had a positive impact on air quality in Ennis and more time is needed to realise the benefits of the Regulations. The primary focus of these regulations is on improving air quality and improving people’s health outcomes, by restricting the retail, online and commercial sale of smoky fuels, including smoky coal, turf and wet wood.  Based on the latest EPA data there has been a 36% reduction on the number of air quality exceedances in Ennis when comparing 2024 to 2023 (based on latest data provided by the EPA). It is important to note that the limit specified in the Regulations is only deemed to be breached if more than 35 exceedances occur over a 24-hour averaging period during the entire year. Based on EPA data currently available for 2024 there were 7 exceedances recorded in Ennis throughout 2024. To date there have been no breaches in County Clare of the Air Quality Regulations.

From the information provided and with the additional monitoring data to be gathered throughout 2025, it is premature to develop a Clean Air Strategy until we know the scale and location of the issues to be dealt with. There is a Clean Air Strategy for Ireland and Clare has actively participated in funding supports as part of a pilot project and we will continue to work with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications to avail of any mechanism to further improve Air Quality in Ennis.

The Environment section have notified all retailers of solid fuels of their obligations under the S.I. No. 529/2022 - Air Pollution Act 1987 (Solid Fuels) Regulations 2022. We carry out regular checks on retailers of solid fuels to ensure compliance with the Regulations.

In 2024 the Environment Section wrote to all known solid fuel retailers in the County to advise of compliance checks and their obligations under the 2022 Regulations. Additionally, the Environment Section carried out 147 on site retailer inspections to ensure compliance. We plan to follow up on this initial inspection programme where non-compliances were detected to ensure that retailers are now compliant. Therefore, ensuring that only approved solid fuels are sold by retailers. The Environment Section plan to continue this inspection programme throughout 2025. The Environment Section have developed a Retail Register and will update this register as required. In addition, we will continue with our multi agency roadside checkpoints to ensure that unapproved fuel is not being transported within the county.

We will also carry out inspections on the sale of unapproved sold fuels though online sales.

Clare County Council is also active across many different Directorates to further improve air quality. The new social housing schemes delivered by the Social Housing Directorate and opened by Minister O’Brien in county Clare are all built to nearly zero energy buildings (NZEB) standards.

These houses do not use solid fuel heating but instead rely on in part improved air tightness, increased insulation, and more effective heating/ventilation systems to achieve more energy efficient homes. They will help lower people’s energy bills, reduce the risk of fuel poverty, and dramatically reduce any contribution to air pollution.

A Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 for Clare has being developed in accordance with national climate change policies clare-climate-action-plan-2024-2029-55368.pdf. These strategies include for adaptation and mitigation measures which will improve air quality. These measures include smarter travel initiatives, increased use of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, retrofitting of housing, green infrastructure, and healthier living initiatives. Various directorates are tasked with delivering actions under this plan.

Awareness and education also play a vital role in ensuring that only those fuels that are approved are used, and that there are health implications for use of unapproved fuels. Under the Greener Clare brand, we continue to promote through print and social media the positive message in relation to air quality actions.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Howard warned that there is a smog issue in Ennis. People have been complaining about this issue for years. In an ideal world we would all drive electric cars and not use fuel to heat our homes but we don’t live in this world. Use of smoky coal continues and this must be prohibited and she questioned the effectiveness of the inspections referenced in the response, stating that premises should be easily identifiable and questions should be asked as to where the coal was purchased. Ex Cllr Flynn had looked for a Clean Air Strategy for Ennis. We need to bring the right people together to work out what can be done to address this.

Cllr O’Callaghan seconded the Motion stating that it is worrying to learn that there are particles in the air that are detrimental to people’s health. He stated that central government have failed in this matter and there is only 1 monitoring station in Ennis when many more were required. His own research indicated that Council reports are not in line with WHO standards.

Sean Lenihan stated that it would be unfortunate for a message to go out that we have a major air quality issue in Ennis, and the comparison to Beijing is not a reasonable one. Going by the response, the exceedances are very low, just 7, so not in breach of the standards per se. Whilst Sean acknowledged there is only 1 monitor currently in operation, it is nonetheless strategically placed in order to yield a mean average. There is funding now for 8 more units which will be deployed around the town following calibration with the baseline data. Establishment of these units will deliver further information after which we will have a clearer idea of how to proceed. A Smoky coal ban exists throughout the county, not just Ennis and they have had a number of inspections of retailers to ensure they are in compliance with the requirements of the ban. Cllr Howard concluded, highlighting that despite a nationwide ban, fuel merchants travelled to Ennis selling smoky coal and that it would likely be easy to identify any premises burning this coal. She added that the Council’s Climate Action team would have a keen interest in this subject and that it is incumbent on Ennis M.D. to have a proactive approach to solving this issue.

 

Item 15: Notice of Motion No. 12 Request for Ennis2040 to deliver projects

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

No. 12   Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Murphy                                                               

I am calling on Ennis Municipal District request of Clare County Council that Ennis 2040 take on management of delivering these following key projects for the future prosperity and development of Ennis;

1. LIHAF road from Lahinch road to Lees Road & beyond.
2. Gort Road to Tulla Road Relief Road.
3. Quin Road to N85 Relief Road.
4. Safe Permeability for Vulnerable Road Users at Clareabbey Roundabout.
5. Addressing the Vehicular, Pedestrian & Cyclist safety issues at the junction of Lahinch & Shanaway Roads.
6. Development of Ballaghafadda Recreational Park.

 

Sean Lenihan, A/Director of Services, responded as follows:

The various projects listed 1 through 6 above are all at various states of project development and progression by various sections of the Council. For example, LIHAF is being managed by the Councils Project Management Office with a number of notable milestones being achieved already at this stage. The update re same is that Planning approval for the road element is in place. Much work is complete on the land acquisition required. The Detailed Design of the road element is complete and the works were tendered just before Christmas. In parallel, Ennis MD is liaising with the LIHAF Section of the Department regarding an uplift in the grant allocation to reflect current day pricing and hyperinflation in the construction industry generally.

The Gort Road to Tulla Road, and the Quin Road to the N85, are strategic objectives for the Council and are included as such in the County Development Plan. Both proposals are being further considered currently in the Area Based Transport Assessment (ABTA) for Ennis and we await the outcome of same. We are currently reviewing the DRAFT ABTA with a view to bringing in to Council for information in the in the near future. Projects 4 and 5 above are being progressed by my colleagues in Road Design and are making good progress re same and finally, Members will be aware of the recent advert for Ballaghafadda where we sought expressions of interest from third parties to development of a sporting and recreation use for the area. Consideration of same is ongoing.

Therefore, in summary, none of the aforementioned projects are currently being managed by Ennis 2040 and Members will be aware of the various projects that are being progressed by them and the additional projects and opportunity sites included in the Strategy Document. That being said, I am certainly willing to discuss the Motion with my colleagues on Management Team and will advise Councillors accordingly re same in due course.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T. O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

Cllr Murphy stated at the outset that he wished to amend the Notice of Motion, namely the addition of item No. “(vii) New Road to Francis Street Pedestrian Bridge”. He stated he believed all of these projects would enhance the quality of our town and he added that given the issue of resources, he believed these projects could appropriately fall under the remit of Ennis2040.

With reference to Ballaghafadda, Cllr Murphy cited Mungret College as a good example of provision of outdoor recreation by way of walking and running tracks. This simple and effective concept can be replicated in Ballaghafadda.

Cllr O’Callaghan seconded the Motion and would be hugely supportive of appropriate development for Roche site and for Ballaghafadda.

Cllr Guilfoyle welcomed the response on the 7 projects but he would not be in favour of these works being handed over to Ennis2040 DAC.

Cllr Howard supported the Motion and welcomed the update on each of the projects and she stated that she would consider Ennis2040 DAC as an appropriate vehicle to bring these projects to completion.

 

Sean Lenihan addressed the meeting stating that all aforementioned projects are at various developmental stages and he confirmed to Cllr O’Callaghan that an update on Ennis2040 was imminent. In answer to Cllr Guilfoyle as to whether such projects are appropriate to the DAC, he clarified that in reality we work on a cross-directorate and multi agency basis to deliver on all projects and therefore it is immaterial which arm of the Council delivers the finished product.

In relation to item (vii) added to the Notice of Motion, namely the footbridge from New Road to Francis Street – Sean informed Members that this is a proposal the Council is keen to progress. There is a strip of ground provided as part of the CBS Primary School planning permission to facilitate a link via a new pedestrian bridge over the river, from New Road to Francis Street.

The provision of same would allow for a substantial modal shift and reduction in car journeys if people were able to access the New Road on foot or by bicycle from the Francis Street side.

Cllr Colleran Molloy commended Cllr Murphy on an excellent Motion for the first meeting of the year.

 

Item 16: Correspondence  

None.

Item 17: Any Other Business

1. Cllr Guilfoyle extended an appreciation to the outdoor crews, on behalf of all residents of Clancy Park, for the hard work in the completion of the clean up at the illegal encampment.
2. Cllr Colleran Molloy requested an update on the broken traffic lights at the top of O’Connell Street, causing huge problems for traders and businesses in Turnpike area.Cllr Daly thanked Paddy who had called to Clare Fruit & Veg in Turnpike immediately to keep them informed, and he also thanked Donnagh Murphy Executive Engineer.
3. Patrick Tiernan informed the meeting that there had been a failure shortly after Christmas, which requires an entirely new system to be put in place including replacement of underground ducts. He hopes that this essential work can be done at the end of this week or next week, at a cost of €70k. Additional signage will be erected.
4. Cllr Colleran Molloy requested an update on why so many potholes are seemingly not repaired immediately and whether they are done in bulk.
5. Paddy Tiernan advised that there is a schedule and they are worked on in batches of 10 or so, maybe not as quickly as we would like.
6. Sean Lenihan acknowledged Ennis MD staff for the work during the festive season. He also thanked the Gardai, the Gardening Section and the Public Realm Contractors Shareridge for the combined efforts in having Ennis looking its fantastic best over the Christmas Holiday period. Cllr Colleran Molloy also thanked the team.
7. Niamh O’Connor briefed Members on proceeds from the Santa Train a total of €1912.00 was collected. Ennis MD would round this up to €2000 meaning that each of the 4 chosen charities will each receive €500.
8. A briefing will take place on The Cloister (Part VIII) under the Thrive project, on Wednesday 26th February at 3:30pm.
9. The GMA workshop scheduled for 16.01.2025 was postponed due to calendar conflicts and will be rearranged at a mutually suitable time

 

Conclusion

The meeting ended at 17:05hrs.

Signed: ____________________________ Riarthóir Cruinnithe

Signed: _____________________________ Cathaoirleach

Date:                  _____________________________

Page last reviewed: 11/02/25

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