Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District Meeting September 2024

Present:

Councillors attending in person: 

Councillors Pat O’Gorman (Cathaoirleach), Donna McGettigan (Leas-Cathaoirleach), Michael Begley, John Crowe, Tony Mulcahy, Rachel Hartigan, and David Griffin.

 

Officials attending in person:

Alan Farrell Director of Services, Anne Griffin A/Senior Executive Officer (Meetings Administrator), Tom Mellett Senior Executive Engineer and Patricia O’Neill Staff Officer.

 

Presiding

Cathaoirleach Pat O’Gorman opened the meeting and welcomed all present.

Cathaoirleach Pat O’Gorman expressed his condolences to Patricia O’Neill, Staff Officer, following the passing of her Mother Kathleen O’Callaghan and also to the family of former Councillor and colleague PJ Kelly.  Cllr. O’Gorman spoke of PJ Kellys long and distinguished political life of 50 years representing the communities of West Clare, the knowledge and assistance that he provided his fellow Councillors.  These sentiments were echoed by all the Members.  Mr. Alan Farrell added that the sentiments expressed mirrored the respect that former Cllr. Kelly was held in, his working relationship with his fellow Councillors and the executive of Clare County Council which exemplified the role of a local politician.   

As a mark of respect if was proposed by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman and seconded by Cllr. Michael Begley to adjourn the meeting for 15 minutes. 

 

Item no. 1: Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District Meeting held on 16^th July 2024

Proposed by Cllr. Michael Begley, seconded by Cllr. John Crowe and agreed by all.

 

Item no. 2: Presentation by Sergeant Seamus Mulligan and Sergeant Denis Lavin from Shannon Garda Station. 

Sergeant Seamus Mulligan outlined the significant changes the Garda division has undergone in recent times, the new business model, the implementation of changes and how it impacts policing locally.     

He outlined the main point of the “Changing policing in Ireland” report

• Creating larger divisions – Clare now part of the Clare/Tipperary Garda division.  4 community engagement areas – Clare, South Tipperary, East Clare/ North Tipperary and Tipperary Central. 
• Enhance national and regional support
• Increase frontline Gardai
• Improve organisational performance

As part of this structure Gardai can be called to any area within their community engagement area.  Emergency calls go through a call centre in Cork and the nearest Garda Patrol car will be dispatched to that area.  Gardai are now covering a larger area. 

For the purposes of this presentation, Sergeant Mulligan compiled a comparison report, comparing the number of incidents reported in Shannon to the number of incidents reported in 4 other similar sized areas categorised as follows:  assault, theft, burglary, drugs, criminal damage, theft of cars, public order offences and domestic violence. 

Overall, Shannon scored the second lowest in these categories.  It was however noted that car theft in Shannon has increased in recent months but is being proactively investigated. 

Sergeant Mulligan outlined their focus for the next 12 months:

• Neighbourhood Watch/Business Watch/Licensed Premises

-        Community Engagement Information Briefings

-        Community events

• School visits

-        Station visits

• -     TY placements
• Targeted patrolling/higher visibility
• Road traffic/drug driving detections
• Sale and supply of drugs

In response to the presentation the Members raised the following:

• Crime not being reported and the unwillingness of people to report such incidents.
• Emergency calls for the Gardai are now diverted to a call centre in Cork and not to a local station.
• Concern was raised about the increase in the theft of cars in Shannon in recent months. 
• Targeting of drug suppliers in towns and villages. 
• Juvenile Diversion Programme – are juveniles referred to this scheme.
• Domestic violence – is the law stringent enough
• Garda Community Engagement Vans –  is there a point of contact for the Clare Tipperary area to arrange a visit to an area and how many are in operation in the area.
• Community Gardai – how can an area be assigned a community garda.
• Speeding on roads is an issue.

Sergeant Mulligan emphasised the importance of victims of crime reporting such issues to the Garda.  He also commented that the Juvenile Diversion Programme is working well and juveniles that are found guilty of an offence are referred to this programme in order to prohibit them from re-offending.  The reports on domestic violence is up and there is a robust system in place for follow-up.  The community engagement vans are a new concept and there is one in each division and these can be requested particularly when there is an event being held.  In respect of a request for a Community Garda this can be initiated via the Community Superintendent.  He also added that community gardai will also be carrying out normal policing as part of their role. 

Sergeant Denis Lavin also reiterated the importance of reporting crime even if people do not want to make a statement it is vital that people keep the Gardai informed.  He acknowledged that while manpower may be challenging, he paid tribute to Clare County Council Fire brigade for their assistance in carrying out their duties.

Mr. Alan Farrell concluded by thanking both Sergeant Mulligan and Sergeant Lavin for their presentation and commended the good working relationship between the Gardai and Clare County Council.

 

Item no. 3: Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 – proposed pedestrian crossing at Setrights Cross, Cratloe, Co. Clare Proposed by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman and seconded by Cllr. John Crowe and agreed by all. 

 

Item no. 4: Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 – proposed traffic calming in Ballycasey Tld., Shannon, Co. Clare Proposed by Cllr. Donna McGettigan and seconded by Cllr. Tony Mulcahy and agreed by all. 

 

Item no. 5:  Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 – proposed pedestrian crossing at Beechwood Grove, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare.

Proposed by Cllr. John Crowe and seconded by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman and agreed by all. 

 

Item no. 6:  Directors’ Business: Alan Farrell, Director of Services.

• N19 Shannon Airport Access road – Phase 3 (Design and Environmental Evaluation) stage is currently ongoing with Phase 4 (Statutory Consent) stage progressing thereafter.  A Final Design update which was recently presented to the Shannon MD Members. The EIAR (Environmental Impact Assessment Report) has been completed and submitted to the TII and the comments raised are being addressed by scheme consultants. Phase 5 (Enabling and Procurement) & Phase 6 (Construction) will progress thereafter which are subject to timely consents, no legal challenge, funding, etc.
• Shannon Town and Environs Flood Relief Scheme - An updated Buildability Report is due to issue.  Clare County Council continue to liaise with the project team for the N19 Access Road Upgrade.
• Construction of a new school for Gaelscoil Donncha Rua has commenced.  The new building will have six mainstream classrooms, one for an early intervention preschool and one for the school’s ASD class.
• Clare FM summer tour broadcast took place in July and August from Shannon and Clonlara.  There were many varied and interesting guests interviewed from both Shannon and Clonlara and it also provided an opportunity to showcase the vital and important role that the MD plays in the area in improving the quality of life for everyone in the District. Thanks was expressed to all for their participation.  
• Under the Community Recognition fund a total of €292k has been allocated to Shannon MD projects which will help enhance and expand facilities. Groups that received funding include Wolfe Tones Na Sionna GAA Club, Shannon Swimming & Leisure Centre, Newmarket Celtic FC, Clare Cricket Club and St Senans RFC.
• Sustainability Week organised by Shannon Chamber will take place from 25^thSeptember to 2^nd October.  This event will focus on innovative solutions, environmental awareness, and sustainable business practices which will bring tangible benefits to organisations.  This event is supported by Clare County Council.
• The expansion of bus routes 343 operating a 24hr service and the enhancement of a number of other routes was welcomed and also forms part of Clare County Council Climate Action Plan.
• Strategic Railway Review commissioned by the Department of Transport and Infrastructure includes 30 recommendations to improve the quality of rail service. The inclusion of a rail line from Cratloe to Shannon Airport is welcomed and additional stations to be serviced provides opportunities for Shannon and the district as a whole.
• Shannon Airport has recorded its busiest August in over 15 years. The airport has reported that 233,000 passengers used the midwest international airport last month, a 5% increase on the same period in 2023.
• Shannon Airport Group have applied for planning permission for additional units in the business park providing employment opportunities in the future.

In response to the above the Members raised the following:

• Concern was raised following the introduction by Bus Éireann to operate the school bus service on the 343 public bus service without any prior consultation with schools, parents and guardian.   Reference was made to the bus stop outside the Shannon MD office with Councillors raising safety concerns for students.
• The proposal to introduce a rail line from Cratloe to Shannon and the need to negotiate with landowners was highlighted.
• The commencement of construction on the new school for Gaelscoil Donncha Rua was welcomed. 
• Bus stop across from Lidl for passengers travelling to Ennis is not being used due to lack of signage. 
• An update was required in regard to the site for Clarecare’s new building. 

Mr. Alan Farrell stated that correspondence will issue to the TII and Bus Éireann on the school bus service issue.

In respect of the Strategic Rail Review, processes will be followed regarding future engagement with landowners.   

Mr. Tom Mellett stated that he has met with representatives from Clarecare.  Work is currently on going in regard to the design process and the site has to be cleared to complete the design process. 

 

Item no. 7: Roads – update by Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer.

• Line marking to roads in Shannon, Parteen, Sixmilebridge, Westbury was completed.
• Removed tress, scrubs in Shannon town, Sixmilebridge, Westbury, Newmarket on Fergus
• Works on School Road Parteen substantially complete, public lights to be installed and commissioned.
• Overlay works completed in Carraig Lia, Shannon, Mount Iver Sixmilebridge, School Road Parteen, O’Connor’s Cross Rosmadda Parteen.
• Resurfacing works to Cronan Garden & Cronan Park Shannon
• Resurfacing works completed in Lee’s Park Shannon, Bishop’s Murphys Park Parteen
• Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) completed in Killulla Newmarket on Fergus
• General maintenance works throughout the municipal district
• Cleaning out sections of the drainage network in Westbury
• Footpath upgrades took place in Inis Rí, Corrib Drive, Foyle Park, Chill Chais and Kilnasoolagh, Newmarket.
• A bike locker, rack, bench and public display board funded through Clare Local Area Grant Scheme (CLAGS) and General Municipal Allocation (GMA) has been put in place in Parteen.
• Fairyfields, Parteen - clearance and upgrade of 2 no. footpaths  
• Clearance of overgrown green area and seeding was also completed in Shannon Banks.
• Surface dressing of parking bays at rear of no. 1-4 in Rossbracken has been carried out.
• Mini sweeper was used to clear weeds from the paved area in Finian Park
• Parteen - Maintenance to improve road sign visibility and sightlines at Junction of R463 & R464 was carried out.
• Drumgeely – roundabout upgrade outside St Johns school Drumgeely, Shannon was carried out.

In response to the above the Members raised the following:

• Difference in surface and finish to roads that have recently being resurfaced in Shannon. 
• The work on the School Road in Parteen was welcomed.  Queries were raised on the delay on the traffic lights and the width of the footpath for wheelchair users.
• Update on the upgrade of the public lighting system throughout the district.
• The effectiveness of the use of the mini sweeper to remove weeks was raised.
• Laneway at the rear of Kilnasoolagh Park needs attention.
• Update on additional outdoor staff that are being allocated to the MD.
• The work of the hedgecutter was commended and it was queried if an additional hedgecutter could be deployed to the area for certain periods.   

Tom Mellett addressed the points raised by the Members as follows:

• Road surfacing works carried out in Cronan and Carrig Lia, the same contractor was used for both jobs but the difference is that the base surface in Cronan is concrete, which is the same finish that is used in several other areas in Shannon.  In Carrig Lia it is asphalt, which was the same finish as used in Rossbracken last year.  As a result, 2 different types of materials were used in these locations.  He noted that the surface in Cronon will take longer to bed down and will over time with usage will settle with an expected lifespan of up to 20 years. 
• Weeds on the new footpath in Inis Ri  – contractor returned and carried out some works to correct the situation and the office will continue to monitor the path. 
• In respect of the delay in the traffic lights in Parteen, this will be monitored and the office will go back to the installer.
• Street lighting – a contract has been signed and the contractor will be on the ground in the coming weeks.  It was noted that there is a backlog of work in this area.
• In accordance with national guidelines the use of pesticides is curtailed and the mini-sweeper is used as an alternative to removing weeds on footpaths. While this is a mechanical process it is considered that over time and with constant use it will eliminate weeds. 
• Hedgecutting – a large area is being covered by the hedgecutter.  Allocating an additional hedgecutter can be considered.

Ms. Anne Griffin responded in regard to additional staff resources being deployed to the outdoor crew in Shannon.  Discussions are ongoing with HR and the Members will be updated on this matter. 

 

Item no. 8: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. David Griffin

Ar molagh Cllr. David Griffin

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

That the Elected Representatives of The Shannon MD call on the NTA to progress the upgrading of stop infrastructure, including timetabling and shelters, on the newly amended 343 bus route, most especially at pick up and drop off points for school transport users. 

Anne Griffin, A/Senior Executive Officer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

I can confirm that this Motion will be referred to the NTA as requested.

All the Members supported this Motion and have requested that Bus Éireann be invited to an MD meeting in the near future. 

 

Item no. 9: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. David Griffin

Ar molagh Cllr. David Griffin

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

That the dangerous dips along Clenagh Road would be dealt with to improve the surface for residents in areas where the road has sunk.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

This road has been assessed and remedial works have taken place previously.  A further assessment will take place to determine what if any works can be carried out here. The issue with the road is that it is a raised bog road and prone to localised settling particularly where heavy vehicles are making frequent trips, the issue is more pronounced for larger vehicles.

 

Item no. 10: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. David Griffin

Ar molagh Cllr. David Griffin

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

That the Shannon MD contact An Bord Pleanála to seek an update on the overdue planning decision in relation to the wastewater treatment plant for Newmarket-on-Fergus. 

Anne Griffin, A/Senior Executive Officer replied as follows:

Shannon MD has written to An Bord Pleanála seeking an update on the expected date for a decision on this planning appeal matter.  The correspondence to An Board Pleanála re-iterated the strategic importance of the construction of the facility which includes a Wastewater Treatment Plant, high chemical storage tanks, ground discharge pumping station, high tertiary treatment system, electrical control kiosk, standby generator, outfall rising main, outfall diffuser and site development works at Boheraroan, Newmarket-on-Fergus. Natura Impact Statement (NIS) was submitted with the application by Irish Water.

 

Item no. 11:  Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Tony Mulcahy

Ar molagh Cllr. Tony Mulcahy

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

That this Council will pave the road and parking spaces in Delginis, Shannon.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

An Assessment of the road will take place to determine its condition. This will determine if the road can be included in the 2025 Road Works Programme.

 

Item no. 12: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Tony Mulcahy

Ar molagh Cllr. Tony Mulcahy

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

That this Council will set out a plan to provide 4 to 5 extra parking spaces on each roadway through Cluain Airne, Shannon over the next year or 2.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

An assessment of parking within estates in Shannon Town has been committed to previously. Cluain Airne will be included in that assessment. The outcome of that assessment will determine additional space allocation.

We have successfully delivered additional spaces in the town in recent years and would intend to continue with that trend where possible.

 

Item no. 13: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Tony Mulcahy

Ar molagh Cllr. Tony Mulcahy

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

That this Council outline what budget is in place for tree removal and replanting this Autumn.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

A budget of €10,000 has been allocated for hedge cutting. In general, the removal or trimming of dangerous trees is funded through our discretionary funding which covers the bulk of all our works outside of our annual roads programme.

I confirm that we have spent in the region of €20,000 last year and this on planting native species through the Coill Beag project. We have also incurred costs of €26,000 from Jan 2023 to now in relation to tree removal and limbing.

 

Item No. 14: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Rachel Hartigan agus glacadh leis:

That junction signs be installed at Shean Coill L-70541 with R-463, Gortogher, Parteen.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

Appropriate STOP SIGNS will be installed at this junction. Consideration for advance warning signs on the R463 approaches will be considered in the context of space available and safety

At this stage of the meeting, it was proposed by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman and seconded by Cllr. Michael Begley to suspend the Standing Order to complete the business of the meeting.

 

Item no. 15: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Rachel Hartigan agus glacadh leis:

That the position of the STOP LINE for the new one-way system on the School Road in Parteen be re-assessed as its present location is too near the light.

Also, that a yellow box be considered for the exit from Greenpark Estate, as back-up traffic is obstructing the entrance.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

The location of this STOP Line has been assessed and is deemed to be appropriate, a yellow box is in place to control queuing on the approach to the traffic lights from both approaches. The provision of a yellow box for Green Park will be kept under review, this Office is confident that the new traffic arrangement will not result in significant delays in cars emerging from the estate. Due to the alterations, it should be more straight forward for vehicles to emerge.

 

Item no. 16: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

That this MD request a “Benefiting Lands” report on the Springfield Flood Defence project completion, from the OPW.

Anne Griffin, A/Senor Executive Officer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

I can confirm that this Motion will be referred to the OPW as requested.

Cllr. Begley added that maps need to be revised for this area as it is currently showing as a flood zone which could potentially devalue property. 

 

Item no. 17: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Tony Mulcahy agus glacadh leis:

Measures to be put in place, such as double yellow lines at junctions between Aidan and Finian park. Vehicles are being parked on this road due to lack of parking spaces and are causing low visibility for residents exiting each cul de sac area.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

Vehicles should not park so close to a junction so as to prohibit sightlines for other road users. Lining will be introduced in these areas to reinforce this.

 

Item No. 18: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Tony Mulcahy agus glacadh leis:

Can we call on the Department of Social Protection to have a Community Welfare Officer in the Town for 2 or more days of the week. 

Some people in dire need are not aware of how to access their CWO and have to travel to Ennis in order to avail of this service, some may not have transport or funds for the bus journey. Shannon is a large town and this would be an invaluable service that is badly needed.

Anne Griffin, A/Senor Executive Officer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

I can confirm that this Motion will be referred to the Department of Social Protection as requested.

 

Item No. 19: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Tony Mulcahy agus glacadh leis:

While it is great to see the streetsweeper out doing a great job, there are several laneways in Shannon that are completely overgrown, covered in moss, are a trip hazard and in some cases inaccessible to residents particularly to those in need of walking aids or wheelchairs.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

A number of laneways have been highlighted to the Office. We have programmed in a tidy-up of the lanes running south from the Gort Rd. towards Tradaree, using the mini-sweeper over the coming weeks.

We also intend to carry out further works in Finian following from the public realm clearing recently.

 

Item no. 20: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

I call on Clare County council to seek a development strategy for a secondary school in Sixmilebridge owing to the population growth we are and will be experiencing over the next ten years. This will help elevate the school public transportation issues currently being faced in Sixmilebridge, Newmarket & Cratloe and will help develop a sustainable plan into the future.

If Clare County Council could arrange a urgent meeting with the Department of Education on this, as this problem is not going to go away but will be a serious issue year on year.

Anne Griffin, A/Senor Executive Officer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

The Shannon Municipal District will make contact with the Department of Education seeking a meeting in this regard.

 

Item no. 21: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

That road markings from Meelick roundabout to White’s Cross be repainted and warning signs be erected approaching the cross as it is considered dangerous.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

An assessment of this area will be conducted, and appropriate lining and signage will be introduced.

 

Item no. 22: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting that the wires be put underground in George’s Street, the longest street in Sixmilebridge and new heritage lamp posts be installed to match Main Street, Sixmilebridge.  I am also requesting that the footpaths be renewed using the same specifications as Main Street.  This is the original historic heart of Sixmilebridge and it requires this upgrade. 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

The overhead wires along George’s St are the property of different Utility Companies and so it would be for them to complete these works if they are done in an isolated manner.

Clare County Council has engaged with local community groups with a view to a public realm project along Georges St. and this is the most likely way to achieve the undergrounding aim.

Should a viable project emerge from this process Clare County Council will not be found lacking in its support.

 

Item no. 23: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Rachel Hartigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Rachel Hartigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Begley agus glacadh leis:

To ask if additional road safety measures can be put in place on approach to the Blackwater Bridge in Ardnacrusha, in particular coming from the Killaloe side. 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

An assessment of this location will be required. The location is complicated by junctions with minor roads on either side of the bridge.

As an interim measure advance warning signs and road markings can be enhanced to highlight the narrowing at the bridge.

 

Item no. 24: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Rachel Hartigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Rachel Hartigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Begley agus glacadh leis:

To ask if additional speed ramps can be installed in Athlunkard Avenue, Shannon Banks. 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

There are existing table tops along this avenue. We will introduce further measures to discourage speeding, including transverse road markings and signage.

 

Item no. 25: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Rachel Hartigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Rachel Hartigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

To ask that the roads and footpaths throughout Elton Court in Meelick be repaired and replaced if necessary as they are currently in a terrible condition in places. 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

A contractor commenced works in Elton Court on Monday 16^th September to carry out upgrades to 210sq.m of footpaths. This is viewed by the Office as a first step with further improvements planned for 2025.

 

Item no. 26:  Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. David Griffin agus glacadh leis:

I ask that this MD would repair subsidence on road between O'Donoghue's railway bridge and the Woodcross pub as a matter of urgency as this stretch of road is very dangerous.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

This will be assessed and consider this location for the 2025 Roads Programme.

 

Item no. 27: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

I request that this MD cut back the trees along the roadside at Cluain Alainn Hurlers Cross, as the trees are causing vehicles to move out onto the oncoming lane.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer replied as follows: 

I have arranged for our tree contractor to visit Cluain Alainn to limb the trees in question.

 

Item no. 28: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

I request that this MD would organise for section of wall at Craughaun Cemetery, Cratloe to be rebuilt. 

Joe Spellissy, Senior Staff Officer, Rural & Community replied as follows: 

Due to the historic nature of burial grounds, Clare County Council are currently dealing with a number of defective boundary walls at locations across the county. The Burial Ground Units experience suggest that traditional stone wall repairs is specialist, labour intensive work undertaken by skilled craftsmen following assessment by a suitably experienced conservation expert to ensure the repairs are carried out appropriately so as to negate any further collapse or risk to public safety while also retaining the heritage and conservation value of these stone walls. It is the intention of the Burial Grounds Unit to initiate a Burial Ground boundary walls rectification programme in 2025 where defective walls will be identified, assessed and scheduled for repair in order of priority and subject to resources.

Clare County Council will inspect the boundary wall issue at Craughaun Cemetery, Cratloe in due course to determine the appropriate course of action in this case.

 

Item no. 29: AOB

Cllr. Hartigan commented that she had received a number of queries in regard to the proposed bike rack for Lackyle Heights, Ardnacrusha from residents.

In response Mr. Tom Mellett stated that the installation of the bike rack is to support active travel, making it more feasible and environmentally friendly for people to travel.  The installation of this equipment has worked well in other locations, and the office will engage with the local community in promoting the installation. 

 

This concluded the business of the meeting

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                               

Cathaoirleach                                                          Meeting Administrator

 

 

 

Dated:            November, 2024

 

Page last reviewed: 19/11/24

Content managed by: Shannon Municipal District

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