Minutes of March 2024 Meeting West Clare Municipal District

Present

Cathaoirleach

Cllr. Ian Lynch

Councillors

Cllr. Cillian Murphy

Cllr. Rita McInerney

Cllr. Joe Garrihy

Cllr. Shane Talty

Cllr. Joe Killeen

Cllr. PJ Kelly

Present via MS Teams

Cllr. Liam Grant

Apologies:

Cllr. Gabriel Keating

Officials Present

Mr. Leonard Cleary, Director of Service

Mr. Jason Murphy, Director of Service

Mr. John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer and Meetings Administrator

Mr. John Corry, A/Senior Executive Officer WCMD (Ennistymon)

Mr. Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer WCMD (Ennistymon)

Mr. Alan Kenneally, Senior Executive Engineer WCMD (Kilrush)

Mr. Steve Lahiffe,  Senior Staff Officer WCMD

Ms. Carmel Carey, Staff Officer WCMD

 

Presiding

The meeting was convened by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Ian Lynch. 

Cllr. Lynch began by congratulating Leonard Cleary on his recent appointment as Chief Executive, Galway City Council and on behalf of all present wished him the vest best in his new role.

Minutes of the January Meeting of West Clare MD held on the 16^th January 2024.

Ar molach Cllr. Shane TaltyCuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leiswith the following observations -Item No. 12 – Cllr Cillian Murphy is requesting an update on the appeal by a member of the public to the speed limit on N67.Item No. 15 – Cllr Ian Lynch requested further clarification to the response he received to this motion. 

 

The General Municipal Allocation of €441,000 for 2024 for the West Clare MD was adopted by the elected members at the MD Budgetary Meeting, it is proposed that each elected member receive €49,000 of this discretionary funding to be allocated to community projects, groups etc. as submitted by the members.

Ar molach Cllr. Shane TaltyCuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Garrihy agus glacadh leis

 

Section 183 of the Local Government Act 2001 and Section 211, of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) – Disposal of small piece of ground at Dromellihy West Cree, Kilrush Co. Clare.

 Ar molach Cllr. Ian LynchCuidithe ag Cllr. Cillian Murphy agus glacadh leis

 

Draft Local Economic & Community Plan presentation.

Ar molach Cllr. Joe GarrihyCuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis

 

Draft Schedule of Municipal District Works 2024.

 

This item was agreed to be deferred.  

 

Rural Development, Planning & Economic Development, Social

 

Notice of motion submitted by  Cllr. Joe Killeen   

Ar molach Cllr. Joe Killeen

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Garrihy agus glacadh leis

We call on Clare County Council, Minister for Agriculture and Department of Agriculture to:

1. Expedite the delayed payment under the Acres Scheme to all farmers post haste,
2. progress the piloting of a new scheme in the Burren and Hen Harrier areas, along the lines of the Burren Scheme, to be designed, implemented and road tested here before being rolled out in all areas of the country as Acres 2 in future years.
3. Meet the Burren I F A to discuss and progress issues of mutual interest.

 

Reply from John Corry, A/Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)

If agreed, I will arrange to write to the Minister and the Department of Agriculture to bring this Notice of Motion to their attention and I will revert back to the Members  with any feedback  received.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr Joe Killeen

Ar molach Cllr. Joe KilleenCuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Garrihy  agus glacadh leis

 

We call on Clare County Council to put together a roadshow on information around development of zoned land and development of derelict buildings in population clusters  such as Corofin, Kilfenora, Miltown Malbay etc to encourage property and landowners to consider availing of supports and making their property  available for residential  housing.

 

Reply from Helen Quinn, Senior Planner, Planning Department and Carmel Greene, Senior Executive Officer, Economic Development

As part of the plan preparation stage of the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029 extensive public consultation was carried out throughout the county both in-person and on-line.  In addition, in 2023 as part of the roll out of the Residential Zoned Land Mapping exercise by the Council further public consultation took place, where landowners with zoned land across all settlement in the county were given the opportunity to engage with the council, this engagement process has extended into 2024 with the publication of the RZLT Annual Draft Map on February 01^st last. Any interested individuals or parties may make submissions in respect of land on the Draft Map as follows.

Submissions can be made by 1 April relating to:

• Identification of additional land which may fall into scope, but which is not included in the annual draft map;
• Challenges to the inclusion of land on the map if the owner considers that the land does not meet the criteria which determine the land in scope;
• Challenges to the date from which the land is considered to be in scope; and/or support the proposed exclusion of land.

Submissions can be made up to 31^st May relating to requests to change the zoning objective of land identified on the annual draft map for 2025.

In light of the current open public engagement process underway together with the ongoing pre-planning facility which the planning department have available to all potential developers or landowners, it is considered that there is sufficient engagement at this point in time with the landowners of zoned lands within settlements.  However, I will continue to keep the level of engagement being undertaken by the Planning Department under review to ensure that there are no barriers to the public engaging with the planning system or council services. 

In relation to refurbishment of Derelict buildings, the Derelict Sites Team is working on over 250 properties around the County and where the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant could be availed of for any individual property, we are advising the owners of same.   In addition, many such properties are coming to market which will hopefully increase the number of properties available for housing.

A series of walk-in clinics, (10 in total) were held in 2023 around the County where owners could come and meet us in relation to the eligibility criteria for the Grant.  These were very successful.  Currently we are available to meet with or give advice by telephone to potential applicants and this is working very well.  We have 320 applications for the Grant received to date and this is growing each week and enquiries are continuing each week also.    We are considering further walk in clinics around the County this year and may do briefings to the elected members also.  We will aim to include clinics in or near the locations listed.

Cllr. Killeen suggested if it were possible for the Council to arrange workshops to promote the different grant schemes available for refurbishment in an effort to raise awareness and bring vacant homes back into use.  

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Cillian Murphy

Ar molach Cllr. Cillian MurphyCuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Kelly  agus glacadh leis

 

That the MD engage with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), National Transport Authority (NTA) and Bus Eireann in order that a) a bus shelter be put in place at Kilmihil and b) discussions be had with regard to the provision of an appropriate, safe bus stop at Lissycasey.

 

Reply from Anne O’Sullivan, Senior Executive Engineer, Physical Development

1. a) The provision of bus shelters is a statutory function of the NTA, and the Road Design Office will liaise with the NTA team in relation to this request for a bus shelter in Kilmihil.

 

1. b) With regard to the bus stops on the N68 at Lissycasey, these are under review by Bus Eireann & they are presently liaising with Clare County Council, TII and the NTA. The Road Design Office will request information on the status of the review from Bus Eireann.

 

A general discussion was had regarding the provision of bus shelters at suitable locations. 

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Cillian Murphy

Ar molach Cllr. Cillian Murphy

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Rita McInerney agus glacadh leis

 

That the West Clare MD engage with the members of the Kilkee Currach Club and the Kilkee Fishing and Boat Club with regards to regularizing the situation at the slip to the west of the boathouse in Kilkee in advance of the 2024 summer season.

 

Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

Revised Kilkee parking bye-laws were recently adopted and these bye-laws will come into force on the 1^st June 2024. The revised bye-laws prohibit parking in the area of the pier and slips (harbour) and revised arrangements will be required for pier users such as the Kilkee Currach Club and the Kilkee Fishing and Boat Club.

 

I anticipate that the West Clare MD will have to meet with all stakeholders prior to putting a new layout in place. We would hope that any arrangements put in place will be to the benefit of all users of Kilkee harbour.

 

Cllr Murphy acknowledged that the Kilkee Bye Laws are being introduced this year but said that agreement and consultation is key to making things work on the ground.  

 

Notice of Motion submitted from Cllr. Ian Lynch

Ar molach Cllr. Ian Lynch

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Kelly  agus glacadh leis

 

That a meeting is held between all the stakeholders Clare County Council, Irish Water, EPA, and local users of Kildysart pier to identify an engineering solution to address water flow issues to improve vessel access to the pier.

 

Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

Clare County Council received BALAMI funding to carry out a number of improvements to Kildysart pier in 2022 / 23. It is clear that additional improvements could be made to benefit pier users. Clare County Council is willing to meet with all the stakeholders listed in an effort to identify an engineering solution to address water flow issues at the pier.

 

A brief discussion took place around the economic benefit if a solution could  be found to address this issue.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Ian Lynch

Ar molach Cllr. Ian Lynch

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Cillian Murphy  agus glacadh leis

 

Prior to the abolition of Kilrush Town Council a plaque was commissioned to honor and recognise the excellent work and contribution that the late Cllr Stephen O Gorman made to the betterment of Kilrush and in particular to his hard work and dedication to John Paul Estate. Unfortunately, this plaque was never erected. I am calling on the West Clare Municipal District to prepare an event at John Paul Estate to unveil the plaque and commemorate Cllr. O Gorman.

 

Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

There is no doubt that the work and dedication of Cllr Stephen O Gorman had a real effect on the town of Kilrush and in particular on the John Paul Estate. The West Clare MD will work with Cllr Lynch on preparing an event to commemorate Cllr O Gorman and unveiling the plaque in his honour.

 

Cllr. Lynch advised that a plaque had been commissioned to honor the work of Cllr. Stephen O’Gorman in John Paul Estate which should now be erected.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Liam Grant

Ar molach Cllr. Liam Grant

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Garrihy agus glacadh leis

 

Call on Clare County Council to do another bathing water assessment at Doolin Pier as soon as possible. I would ask the council to highlight what constraints exist with achieving bathing water designation and to carry out any work which would help increase the score given in the assessment. Particularly, I would like the council to carry out water quality tests as this was not done in the assessment. 

I would ask that someone from the environmental section attend the meeting who would be able to answer questions on the assessment and why particular scores were given."

 

Reply from Cyril Feeney, Senior Engineer, Physical Development

Local authorities are required under the Bathing Waters Directive 2006/7/EC and the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 (SI No 79 of 2008) to identify bathing waters on an annual basis. The Directive requires that water quality at all designated bathing waters meets stringent microbiological standards to protect the health of people who choose to bathe there.

Section 4(4) of the Regulation states that “A local authority shall take appropriate measures in accordance with Regulation 17 for public participation in the identification of bathing waters” and Section 4(1) states that “A local authority shall, in accordance with this Regulation, on or before 24 March in each year identify all bathing waters in relation to the bathing season in that year and shall notify the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in such form and in such manner as may be specified by the EPA, of the bathing waters so identified including the reason for any change compared to the previous year.”

The process for identifying bathing waters has already been completed for the 2024 bathing season. In addition considering the timescales involved in the advertising and review of submissions it would not be possible to complete a second review prior to March 24^th 2024.

It is not proposed to sample this location for bathing water quality as the International Life Saving Europe (ISLE) Water Safety Ireland independent Risk Assessment has indicated in 2014 and again in 2021, that the area proposed is not suitable for swimming.

The Municipal District Offices in conjunction with the Environment section can analyse the “Proposed Bathing Water” report to see if works can be carried out which may satisfy the criteria in the EPA Guidance document which would allow for their submission in next year’s review.

It is important to note that there are currently 8 Blue Flag Bathing Areas, with an additional 4 Green Coasts Flags in Clare. In addition to monitoring water quality at the 12 Blue and Green flag locations, we also monitor bathing water quality at 2 additional locations. In total we currently monitor 14 locations for bathing water under the Bathing Water Quality Regulations (see Table below).

Current Beach Flags and Monitoring locations
Ref	Blue Flag	Green Coast	Monitored Locations
1	Ballycuggeran	Bishops Quarter	Cappagh (Blue Flag up to 2022)
2	Fanore	Ballyallia	Quilty (front beach)
3	Kilkee	Carrigaholt Beach
4	Lahinch	Seafield
5	Mountshannon
6	Spanish Point
7	Whitestrand Doonbeg
8	Whitestrand Miltown

 

Cllr. Grant expressed his disappointment at Bathing Water Scores for Doolin which is not a designated bathing area and asked if a meeting could be arrange with the Environment Section to ascertain the process involved to bring the water quality scores to a maximum and designated it as a safe place for swimmers.   

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Liam Grant

Ar molach Cllr. Liam Grant

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis

 

Call on Clare County Council to address the serious dog fouling issues in Lahinch. That the council target several days to enforce dog fouling fines in an effort to stop it happening. I would like to see something similar to that done by An Garda Síochána who conduct a number of Slow Down Days each year. That Clare County Council are seen to be enforcing dog fouling laws and taking the matter seriously.  I would also ask for the data on how many dog fouling fines have been issued in Lahinch over the last three years.

 

Reply from Brendan Flynn, Senior Executive Engineer, Environment

The Environment Section have a Community Warden  covering the West Clare Municipal  District (North) which includes Lahinch. Our Warden will undertake regular patrols in the  area to combat dog fouling. The Council have also requested our Dog Warden service       provider to carry out additional patrols in Clare beaches.

We have also ran a number of specific awareness campaigns around Responsible Dog Ownership. One fine has issued in Lahinch in the last 3 years. The Environment Section will run a number of targeted dog fouling days across the County in 2024.

 

Cllr Grant advised that he had partaken in a recent beach clean up at Lahinch and was appalled at the level of dog fouling on the beach.   He was supported by fellow members who agreed this was an issue in all towns and villages and that an awareness campaign was needed to change  behaviour.  

 

Notice of Motions submitted by Cllr. Shane Talty

Ar molach Cllr. Shane Talty

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Cillian Murphy agus glacadh leis

 

That Clare County Council undertake an education & enforcement campaign against dog fouling on the streets of our towns & public areas across the MD.

 

Reply from Brendan Flynn, Senior Executive Engineer, Environment

The Environment Section have embarked on an extensive education programme in recent years and months aimed at combating dog fouling. Action in  recent months includes:

• Providing communities with Green Dog walker packs. 
• We regularly use print media to raise awareness on dog fouling on the Green Clare page. 
• We provide free dog bags to local businesses.
• Dog poo bags are available for free in all MD offices.
• We regularly promote Good Dog Owner Responsibilities via our Greener Clare Social media accounts.
• Our Environmental Awareness Officer promotes the issue as part of our Green Schools programme.
• The Environment Section have provided 6 mobile Tannoy systems in 2023 to provide a voice recorded message to deter dog fouling and to remind dog owners of their responsibilities.
• All of the Environment Wardens regularly stencil popular walkways with the "Bag it Bin it" dog fouling message.

In addition to the above our Dog Warden also inputs to a regular slot on Clare FM and promotes the Good Dog owner ethos. 

 

Cllr Talty expressed thanks for the reply and acknowledged the on- going work of Officials but said that dog fouling was disgusting and cannot be tolerated at our beaches. 

Joint Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Shane Talty and Cllr. Joe Garrihy and Cllr. Joe Killeen

 Ar molach Cllr. Shane Talty and Cllr. Joe Garrihy and Cllr. Joe Killeen

 

We ask what supports/resources has the MD Office been able to provide to the new Ennistymon Community School, in advance of its highly anticipated and very welcome opening over the coming weeks.

 

Reply from John Corry, A/Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)

Staff from the North Clare Local Area Office have extensively engaged with local Stakeholders including the school Principal, local Gardaí and Bus Eireann over the past few months in the lead up to the opening of the new Community School in the coming weeks. We have attended on site to agree a plan that will facilitate all 16 school busses dropping off and collecting students at the school. We will also be providing staff resources at strategic locations to assist with traffic management. We will continue to engage with all relevant Stakeholders after the school opens to monitor and review traffic management arrangements.

Cllr Talty was thankful for the reply.  He said there was great excitement in Ennistymon with the opening of the new school in the next weeks.  However, he noted that there will be traffic congestion in the town with all the school traffic going through Blakes Corner.  He  referenced a  recent positive meeting with staff in the MD, Gardai,  School Principal and local representatives and was hopeful that a solution would be found that accommodates everyone.  

 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Rita McInerney

Ar molach Cllr. Rita McInerney

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

 

Considering the expanded routes from Local Link and Bus Eireann in recent years, that Clare County Council conducts an audit of the current Bus Stops and Shelters in West Clare in consultation with the providers, to identify where deficits exist. Once the audit is completed, that the Council identifies funding sources to upgrade and install Bus Stops and Shelters with kerb-side accessibility for people with mobility difficulties and families with buggies. 

 

Reply from Anne O’Sullivan, Senior Executive Engineer, Physical Development

The provision of bus shelters is a statutory function of the National Transport Authority (NTA). The NTA have made an allocation of €500,000 for Bus Stop Enhancements in County Clare. This office has requested the details & conditions attached to this allocation from the NTA. Pending these details, a decision will be made as to how to maximise the funding allocation and an audit of existing bus stops and shelters may be considered.

At present the Road Design Office is managing the installation of two new bus shelters in West Clare MD, one in Lahinch and the second at the Cliffs of Moher.

Any bus stops proposed for the expanded Local Link services are reviewed by the Local Authority. Bus Eireann have a team reviewing their bus stops facilities in the county.

Cllr McInerney expressed thanks for the reply.  She noted that the Local Link were increasing there services which is welcome but that accessible bus stop facilities is required.  Cllr. Lynch added that there is a difficulty identifying suitable locations and that needed to be followed up.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Rita McInerney

Ar molach Cllr. Rita McInerney

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Cillian Murphy agus glacadh leis

 

That Clare County Council seek an update on the proposed Kilmihil wastewater upgrade announced by Uisce Eireann in April 2022 with completion promised by 2025 under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.  With the village's potential to grow through housing developments, upgrading the wastewater treatment facility is vital to the community. 

 

Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

If the motion is passed the West Clare MD will seek an update from Uisce Eireann.

 

Cllr McInerney said that the proposed Kilmihil Wastewater upgrade was now not due until 2029 and that this would have a negative impact on the proposed housing developments for the village. 

 

Notice of Motions submitted by Cllr. Rita McInerney

Ar molach Cllr. Rita McInerney

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

 

Ask that Clare County Council examine the possibility of creating a Clare PASS, available online and offline similar to those of other counties in Ireland and cities around the world.  This would allow the purchase of a single multiday pass for visitors and locals alike to access all of the tourism and heritage attractions under Clare County Council at a discounted rate.  This would ensure cross promotion with the prospect of including privately owned attractions in the future. 

 

Reply from Deirdre O’Shea, Head of Tourism, Tourism Department

In response to the motion regarding the exploration of a Clare Visitor Pass, which would allow both visitors and locals to access a range of tourism and heritage attractions at a discounted rate, the Tourism Department are actively assessing the potential advantages and the practicalities required for such an initiative.

While examining the feasibility of this proposal, it is important to mention that for the current season, we are concentrating on two significant programmes intended to bolster local attractions and offer value to both residents and tourists:

"Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare," scheduled for April 20 and 21, aims to engage locals with the splendour and heritage of Clare. This initiative will provide special incentives, encouraging residents to explore and appreciate the attractions their county has to offer. This presents a wonderful opportunity for locals to reconnect with Clare, fosters community pride, and supports local businesses. Additionally, it equips residents to be ambassadors for their county and the diverse range of visitor attractions it boasts.

"Clare Funday Sundays" is another new initiative which, starting from the end of April, will offer a dynamic platform for local attractions to connect with both locals and visitors through creative and valuable offerings.

Available through VisitClare.ie, "Clare Funday Sundays" will present a unique and evolving platform that automatically refreshes every Sunday, showcasing a limited selection of imaginative offers from local attractions. These offers extend beyond discounts to include value-added experiences, one-of-a-kind events, and special happenings, all timed to coincide with when attractions are looking to boost business. This approach provides substantial flexibility for attractions, allowing them to put forward offers that are not only attractive but also creatively stimulating.

This new platform guarantees a fresh array of surprises and opportunities each Sunday, thus encouraging continuous exploration and enjoyment of Clare's abundant offerings. It is tailored to meet the business needs of attractions while also catering to the wide-ranging interests of our community and visitors.

As we continue to explore the feasibility of a Clare Visitor Pass, we remain dedicated to supporting all visitor attractions throughout Clare and promoting the County as an enticing destination to visit.

Cllr McInerney acknowledged that both “be a tourist in your own county Clare” and “Clare Fundays” were both great initiatives but that this needed to be expanded to encourage longer tourism stays in the County.  She suggested if something like the Limerick Pass could be developed in Clare and  promote all tourist attractions. 

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Joe Garrihy

Ar molach Cllr. Joe Garrihy

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis

 

I call on the West Clare MD to ensure the following is imbedded into the development of the Doolin Pier Visitor Building; 

1 .High Quality Integrated Mobility and Master plan for the entire Pier and Harbour Area at Doolin Pier including pedestrian and cycle access back to Fisher Street and overall Doolin Village areas.

2. Include a Priority design objective to ensure maximum access and facilitation of the local community to the amenities, shore areas and the ocean along with immediate upgrade of areas around the old pier.
3. Include scoping and investigation of the piers, shore areas and surrounds to identify where possible the development of high quality and fully accessible bathing areas and areas for leisure activity. 

4.Installation of EV charging points 

5.Linkage for service food and beverage provision to existing local business and producers.

 

Reply from John Leahy, Senior Engineer, Project Management Office

Significant design development has already been undertaken (under the direction of the Project Management Office) in respect of the provision of a purpose-designed facility at Doolin pier to serve the needs of ferry operators and passengers.   The provision would include points of contact/desks for ferry operators, toilets, information point and a small retail outlet serving a limited range of food & beverage and consumable essentials.  Additional carparking and linkages to Doolin pier will be incorporated to facilitate embarking and passenger movement.  The facility will be designed to accommodate muti-modal use by making provision for cyclists, and mixed ability users. 

The Council are at present liaising with the Department with a view to securing the additional funding required to progress this project to Statutory Consent stage.  This follows environmental evaluation of land use options, and re-engagement with appointed design team in 2023. 

In response to the points raised in the Motion I wish to respond as follows:

1. Outside the brief of the Doolin VSB project. 
2. The Visitor Services Building project is a facilities project, and includes for the best standards in accessible travel, parking, and footpath design, where required for the facility.   This would include footpaths and pavements close to the foreshore/pier area where these are required for passengers and the public using the facility whilst maintaining existing access to foreshore amenities.
3. The Doolin Visitor Services Building project will preserve existing access to the leisure amenities for recreational use at Doolin pier.  The project will not be providing enhanced bathing areas, as such is outside the brief as supported by the Department.
4. With regard to the additional car-parking provision which will be incorporated into the scheme, a proportion of the carparking spaces will be dedicated to EV Charging.
5. The facility will include a small retail outlet for food and beverage, and retail goods.   It is important to note that this would be a ‘Grab & Go’ retail model, the intention for which would be to provide visitors with light refreshments and basic necessities.  This offering would compliment rather than replace the hospitality of local businesses and producers.

 

Reply from John Corry, A/Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)

 

Further to the response received from the PMO I wish to advise that the Doolin Enhancement Strategy ,2019 can help inform pedestrian and cycle access between Doolin Pier and Fisher St and the wider Doolin village.

The West Clare MD will also arrange to review any necessary upkeep works at the Old Pier.

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Joe Garrihy

Ar molach Cllr. Joe Garrihy

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

 

I call on the West Clare MD and Clare County Council to provide funding to high priority West Clare MD Active Travel projects which have been ignored in the recent Active Travel allocations and to write to Minister Eamon Ryan expressing our deep disappointment with the discrimination against Rural Active Travel Projects over the last 2 years of the scheme and for this to be rebalanced in future allocations in line with the objectives of " Our Rural Future" policy.

 

Reply from John Corry, A/Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)

Clare County Council have made applications for a number of Active Travel schemes in rural areas and it is disappointing that the National Transport Authority (NTA) have not provided the funding to date for such schemes. We will review and consider alternative funding sources which may assist with the progression of such schemes while we await future allocations from the NTA.

If agreed I will arrange to write to Minister Ryan to express our disappointment with Active Travel allocations received in 2024.

It was agreed that correspondence should be sent to the Minister for the Environment & Local Government reiterating the disappointment amongst the local representatives at the lack of active travel funding for rural areas of Co. Clare.

 

Physical Development

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Kelly

Ar molach Cllr. PJ Kelly

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Cillian Murphy agus glacadh leis

 

That an update be given on the solution to the sluice problem at Lough Donnell.

 

Reply from John Leahy, Senior Engineer, Project Management Office

Clare County Council continue to work to address concerns at Lough Donnell. A consultant for Clare County Council and the contractor met on site at Lough Donnell in late February to inspect the culvert and consider options to progress. Following this inspection, a report on the options to provide an engineering solution will be prepared and submitted to Clare Co Council for our consideration. The preferred option will have to be agreed with National Parks and Wildlife Service and Inland Fisheries Ireland if it is to progress. Lough Donnell is a Special Area of Conservation, a Special Protection Area and an Annex 1 Coastal Lagoon habitat. Any works cannot have a negative effect on the conservation objectives of the lagoon and habitat. In parallel, Clare County Council have arranged a meeting with representatives of the local landowners to discuss the issues and agree on a way forward. Further progress meetings are planned with the landowners. We have also met with the Irish Farmers Association and a representative of the local anglers. We will continue to liaise with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the IFI to find solution satisfactory to all parties. Clare County Council continue to monitor the water level and salinity levels of lagoon. This information will feed into the decision on a suitable option. Once a suitable solution is agreed, our consultant will prepare detailed design drawings.

Lough Donnell is an ecologically sensitive area and any works in the area have to have regard to this.

 

Notice of Motions submitted by Cllr. PJ Kelly

Ar molach Cllr. PJ KellyCuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

That a public light would be erected at the pier in Kildysart in the interests of public safety.

Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

There may be a suitable pole near the welfare building located on the pier. I have asked the engineer responsible for public lighting to investigate if a public light could be fitted to the pole. I will revert to the elected member with his reply.

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Kelly

Ar molach Cllr. PJ KellyCuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

That the Council would re-surface the short section of road from the R473 to the Ballynacally GAA grounds.

 Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

This section of the R-473 has not been included on the 2024 Schedule of Municipal District Works as it scores relatively well on our latest PSCI survey. I will ask the local road supervisor to visit the area & carry out any repairs to the public road that may be necessary.

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Ian Lynch

Ar molach Cllr. Ian LynchCuidithe ag Cllr. Cillian Murphy agus glacadh leis

I request that raised crossings, similar to those constructed in the Ennis MD, are constructed at the following locations:

Pella Road

Island View

Baile na Hinbir 

Elm Drive

Willow Green

John Paul Estate

Wilson Road

 

Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

Raised tables, pedestrian platforms and shared spaces are increasingly common in urban areas. They provide a safe crossing point for pedestrians and aid traffic calming.

At present the West Clare MD does not have a budget for designing / constructing raised table crossings. A funding source would have to be in place before works of this nature could be considered.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by  Cllr. Cillian Murphy

Ar molach Cllr. Cillian MurphyCuidithe ag Cllr. Rita McInerney agus glacadh leis

 

That CCC requests that TII undertake a review of the design of the junction at the N67 and R484. Traffic joining the N67 from the R484 have no incentive to fully stop and as such are taking this junction at significant speed. I’d also request that some consideration be given to facilitating a layby on the R484 at, or close to this, junction to safely accommodate the school bus that collects children here.

 

Reply from Anne O’Sullivan  Senior Executive Engineer  Roads & Transportation

This junction has been identified as a location of interest under the HD 17 Road Safety Inspections. The Road Design Office will discuss the concerns expressed with the Regional TII Safety Inspector with a view to adding it to the HD17 programme of design works.

Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD:

I share the elected members’ concern about drivers utilising the junction of the N67 & R-484 at significant speed. The R-487 & N67 are two of the busiest roads in the MD, and a lay-by may not be the appropriate measure so close to such a high-speed junction. I would like to await the outcome of the discussions between our Road Design Office and the TII Regional Safety Inspector before giving any commitment to providing a lay-by.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gabriel Keating

Ar molach Cllr. Gabriel KeatingCuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

 

Funding be sourced for significant strategic roadworks such as the regional road between Cree and Doonbeg R484-23, and part of the Kilmihil to Cree Road R483 and R483-49. The cost of including roads this length, make it very difficult to include in the roadworks programme, and additional funding should be delivered to ensure other roads such as these are brought up to necessary standard.

 

Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

The 2024 Roadworks Programme has been presented at this March MD meeting. There is a significant body of work to be carried out on roads throughout the MD as part of this. Unfortunately, it is not possible to complete all the roads projects that are put forward due to the extensive costs involved but we are currently working on identifying additional sources of funding to complete other roads projects in the area. The above roads are being considered as part this. The lengths of roads requested on the R484 and R483 are significant. The R484-23 is approximately 4km and the R483-49 2.5km long. We may have to plan paving works over a number of years on these sections due to costs involved

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gabriel Keating

Ar molach Cllr. Gabriel KeatingCuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

 

That a special funding be made available for the completion of a footpath from caravan park to Carrigaholt village for health & safety reasons due to the large number of people using this facility and linking into the village, especially during the busy tourist season.

 

Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)

The footpath from Carrigaholt village to Amigos caravan park is currently being assessed as a potential project in 2024. Funding applications have been made previously under the Active Travel Fund but have been unsuccessful to date. Similar to Cllr Keating’s requests in Motion No. 26 above, additional funding is currently being sourced with the intention to progress this project this year once all the necessary approvals are in place.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gabriel Keating

Ar molach Cllr. Gabriel KeatingCuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis

To carry out re-surfacing works in Kilmihil Village from Fitzpatrick’s shop to the Kilrush Junction.

Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)  

This road has not been included on the 2024 Schedule of Municipal District Works as it scores relatively well on our latest PSCI survey. The section of the R-484 between Fitzpatrick’s and the Kilrush junction is slightly longer than 200 linear metres with an average width of approx. 8 metres. A surface overlay on this road would be reasonably expensive and a funding source would have to be in place before works could be considered. I will ask the local road supervisor to visit the area & carry out any repairs to the public road that may be necessary.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Joe Garrihy

Ar molach Cllr. Joe GarrihyCuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis

That the process to take in charge the Finiona Road, Ballyvaughan off the N67 would commence.

 

Reply from Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)

 

In accordance with Clare County Council’s Document “taking in charge policy for private roads”, which sets out the procedure for taking private roads in charge, as defined in Section 11 (Declaration of Public Roads) of the Roads Act 1993.

 

1. Process Initiation.
2. Public consultation.
3. Consideration of submissions received.
4. Engineer’s report.
5. Municipal District Meeting.
6. Post consultation
7. Responsibilities of the Council thereafter.

 

If this motion is passed by the elected members of the West Clare MD here today, the process will have been initiated and the Roads Department can move to the public consultation stage.

 

Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Shane Talty

Ar molach Cllr. Shane TaltyCuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis

Ask to commence the process to have a road in Spanish Point, serving 10 houses declared a public road. Located at: 52°50'50.5"N 9°26'25.3"W

Reply from Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)

In accordance with Clare County Council’s Document “taking in charge policy for private roads”, which sets out the procedure for taking private roads in charge, as defined in Section 11 (Declaration of Public Roads) of the Roads Act 1993.

 

1. Process Initiation.
2. Public consultation.
3. Consideration of submissions received.
4. Engineer’s report.
5. Municipal District Meeting.
6. Post consultation
7. Responsibilities of the Council thereafter.

 

If this motion is passed by the elected members of the West Clare MD here today, the process will have been initiated and the Roads Department can move to the public consultation stage.

Any other business

Conclusion

The meeting then concluded

 

 

Signed: ____________________________
Name   Ian Lynch

Cathaoirleach

 

Signed: _____________________________
Name   John O’Malley
Meetings Administrator

Date: 7^th May, 2024               

 

Page last reviewed: 07/05/24

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