Minutes of March 2025 Meeting of West Clare Municipal District
Location: Held in the HUB Ennistymon and on line via MS Teams
On: Thursday 20th March, 2025
Time: 3pm
Present
Cllr. Rita McInerney
Cllr. Bill Slatter
Cllr. Michael Shannon
Cllr. Gabriel Keating
Cllr. Shane Talty
Cllr. Joe Killeen
Cllr. Ian Lynch
Cllr. Dinny Gould
Apologies
Cllr. Joe Garrihy
Officials Present
Ms. Siobhán McNulty, Director of Service, West Clare MD Kilrush LEA
Mr. Jason Murphy, Director of Service, West Clare MD Ennistymon LEA
Mr. John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD Kilrush LEA
Mr. Eoin Troy, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD Ennistymon LEA
Mr. Alan Kenneally, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD Kilrush LEA
Mr. Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD Ennistymon LEA
Mr. Steve Lahiffe, Senior Staff Officer, West Clare MD Kilrush LEA
Ms. Carmel Carey, Staff Officer, West Clare MD Ennistymon LEA
Presiding
The Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Rita McInerney presided
Matter Arising
1. Cllr Killeen asked if there was an update on the Members request from the November meeting to hold a meeting with An Garda Siochána relating to illegal activity on private lands in the MD. Cllr Talty advised that there was a delay in setting up a new JPC Committee due to an legislative error at department level and it is not known when this will be resolved. In the interim, Jason Murphy informed the meeting that the Council had recently recruited a Community Safety Partnership Co-Ordinator and he will raise these issues with her.
2. Cllr Slattery asked if there was an update on his Motion no. 10 from the last meeting relating to Blakes Corner. Eoin Troy advised that a Section 57 application was approved by the Planning Department and that a contractor on site next week.
3. Cllr McInerney asked if there was an update on the Motions Register. John O’Malley advised that is an ongoing project with IT.
4. Cllr. Slattery asked for an update on an issue with speeding at the Back Road, Ennistymon. Tony Neville replied that a speed survey had been carried out and confirmed a speeding issue at this location. The Gardai have been notified and a speed limit review application is now an option for consideration.
Item 1: Minutes of January Meeting of West Clare MD held on the 19th January, 2025
Ar moladh Cllr. Gabriel Keating Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Shannon agus glacadh leis
Item 2: Section 183 Notice under the Local Government Act 2001. Disposal of property at 13 Church Road Miltown Malbay Co Clare.
Ar moladh Cllr. Shane Talty Cuidithe ag Cllr. Bill Slattery agus glacadh leis
Rural Development, Planning & Economic Development, Social, Tourism
Item 3: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Joe Garrihy
Ar moladh Cllr. Joe Garrihy Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis
In warmly welcoming the potentially transformative initiative planned to launch in summer 2025 - The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Shuttle service for both tourists and host community use and with a deep wish for its long-term success . I call on Clare Tourism, Clare County Council and Failte Ireland to set a clear plan and partnership with host communities / T&V where the shuttle will visit and have bases.
This partnership with host areas should have a broad theme of welcome and best experience possible for the users of the service with each area's USP and unique story within the Geo Park and COM experience. Building SME and host area capacity to actively prepare and plug into this opportunity while also aligning with and matching the top-class visitor experience at other sites owned by Clare County Council. This host community base and approach is absolutely necessary to set this potentially transformative initiative up for success from the outset.
Reply from Siobhán McNulty, Director of Service, Tourism Development
Clare County Council working in partnership with the National parks and Wildlife Service, will deliver a sustainable transport solution on a pilot basis in North Clare serving tourists and host communities, expected to commence 1st May 2025- 31st August, with the potential to extend to September. The bookable branded bus service will be FREE and will be called the Burren and Cliffs Explorer, driving footfall to towns, villages and key attractions in the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark including:
· Corofin
· Carran
· Kilfenora
· Lisdoonvarna (Hub with facilities including free parking)
· Doolin
· Liscannor
· Lahinch
· Miltown Malbay (Hub with facilities including free parking) This town is not in Geopark but is a gateway to West and North Clare.
Landmark attractions include Burren National Park and the Cliffs of Moher Experience.
This project aligning to the North Clare Traffic and Transport Plan, Burren and Cliffs of Moher DEDP, Clare Tourism Strategy 2030, Cliffs of Moher draft Strategy 2040, is following a procurement process and will be delivered subject to contract. A process of engagement on information and consultation with timetables will take place with the public in host communities in March and April (dates TBC), this will inform the service and help shape the experience development on board the coaches. An onboard visitor experience plan will be developed to include in person welcome and supported by video. An extensive marketing plan is being actively worked on to promote the service, assets of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Experiences as well as the unique attributes of each of the towns and villages to ensure there is maximum economic benefit.
Cllr Killeen on behalf of Cllr. Garrihy thanked Siobhán McNulty for her reply. He said there was potential to tie in both the Michael Cusack Centre and Lemenagh Castle as potential stops along the route while linking in with Ballyvaughan. He noted that there was plenty of space in Kilfenora to accommodate the meeting of the two bus routes.
Siobhán McNulty responded by saying that a lot of consultation had taken place predominantly led by Geraldine Enright and the Cliffs of Moher Experience team. She said that this was a pilot for 2025 & 2026 and it is hoped that this initiative will be successful.
Item 4: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Michael Shannon
Ar moladh Cllr. Michael Shannon Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis
I call on the West Clare MD in conjunction with Failte Ireland and Clare County Council to launch the new Cliff Coast Adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way from West Clare to North Kerry.
Reply from Deirdre O’Shea, Head of Tourism, Tourism Development
Fáilte Ireland launched a new five-year plan to help drive and sustain tourism in North Kerry and West Clare (Cliff Coast). The Cliff Coast Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP), was launched at Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa, Tralee on the 20th February 2025.
The DEDP aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years. The Implementation Group meetings are well underway with key stakeholders from Clare County Council, Kerry County Council, Irish Hotels Federation, LEADER, and local tourism businesses and networks. The next implementation group meeting will take place in Vandeleur Walled Gardens and Visitor Centre to showcase West Clare.
Cllr. Shannon thanked Deirdre O’Shea for her reply. He said that he had attended the DEDP launch in Kerry and added that we need to keep investing in tourism and cultural activities to entice visitors to spend more time in Co Clare. He suggested that a Tourism promotion be launched in May ahead of the tourist season. Cllr Keating & Cllr. Lynch both supported the motion.
Item 5: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Joe Killeen
Ar moladh Cllr. Joe Killeen Cuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis
We call for a report on progress to date on the reopening of the iconic Cliffs of Moher walk for Summer Season 2025. We call for appropriate signage forewarning visitors in the event of portions of the walk not being traversable as public walkways on the approach roads as well as in the vicinity of the walk itself.
Reply from Siobhán McNulty, Director of Services, Tourism
Clare County Council is working with the Department of Rural and Community, Failte Ireland and Clare Local Development Company to secure its future in consultation with stakeholders with landowners as the key stakeholder. A management plan is being prepared by Tobin Consultants, the availability of a draft is imminent.
· CLDC is the Trail Management Organisation for the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk under contract from the Department of Rural and Community. The Grade 5 high difficulty Coastal Walk in southern section is closed to the public in the interest of public safety and will not open in 2025. The northern section from Doolin to Surfers Path is currently open to the public.
· Clare County Council owns, operates and manages the Cliffs of Moher Experience site. This length of pathway under the control of Clare County Council is 1,000m. This safe pathway which is part of the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is open to the public, the boundary entry points to the Coastal Walk north and south are closed with signage and inaccessible barriers. The digital assets owned and managed by Clare County Council are updated with current information on open and closures including website, app and social media pages. All booked customers are made aware of accessible areas. There is signage in place at closure points and on the main approach roads put in place by CLDC. We will correspond with CLDC to request additional signage advising the closure of the Coastal Walk.
Cllr. Talty welcomed the response and asked if the Tobin report had been received.
Siobhán McNulty confirmed that she has received the Tobin report and expects to be in a position to release it shortly.
Item 6: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Bill Slattery
Ar moladh Cllr. Bill Slattery Cuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis
That the housing section of Clare County Council carry out an inspection ASAP and provide a written report of the serious issues of sinking foundations or pyrite? with houses on the left-hand side (particularly No. 11) at Kilcornan estate, Ennistymon.
Reply from Aidan O’Rourke Senior Executive Engineer, Housing Department
The housing section will inspect, carry out any necessary testing and produce report for no. 11 Kilcornan estate, Ennistymon to determine the cause and specify the correct remediation for this property. This examination will be provided to neighbouring council properties where similar issues arise.
Item 7: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Bill Slattery & Cllr. Shane Talty
We call on Clare County Council to urgently proceed with design & redevelopment works at Lahinch Playground, with funding approved last August of €165K. This needs to be completed in advance of the 2025 peak season. An ongoing management & maintenance plan then needs to be formalised for the facility, 1 of the busiest playgrounds in Munster.
Reply from Eoin Troy, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
The need for the redevelopment of the community Playground is acknowledged. The support and engagement from local councillors is appreciated.
At this stage a draft specification has been completed and engagement has taken place with the local playground committee. Funding is in place and works will commence when tender has completed.
We are committed to ensuring that the project moves forward as quickly as possible and that a clear timeline is established.
Cllr Talty advised that this was a critical piece of infrastructure that need to be protected. He accepts that it is unlikely that a full redevelopment of the playground is likely for the 2025 season but asked if safety and cosmetic works could be prioritized. Cllr. Slattery echoed Cllr Talty’s comments and commended Gerry Hartigan & family for the work they had done on the playground to date.
Eoin Troy confirmed that that a meeting took place last week with a specialist playground company to keep the playground open for the summer. He said that the redevelopment is at design stage and we are relying on specialist contractors to carry out the works. It is envisaged that works will be completed within 2025 and once the playground is at an acceptable standard, the Council will be responsible for the maintenance and management in future.
Item 8: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Rita McInerney
Ar moladh Cllr. Rita McInerney Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis
That West Clare Municipal District identify suitable locations at Cappa Pier and White Strand, Doonbeg along with costings, for environmentally friendly outdoor showers.
Reply from John O’Malley Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
There has been a noticeable increase in the number of swimmers and dippers using locations such as Cappa and White Strand, Doonbeg in recent years. There have been some improvements to these areas with works carried out at the public facilities in Cappa and foot showers in the White Strand. There is a longer-term plan around the Cappa Enhancement Strategy which includes future improvements to facilities but in the shorter term the MD are currently assessing the possibility of installing environmentally friendly outdoor showers at this location. Seasonal temporary facilities are provided at White Strand, Doonbeg. The provision of additional environmentally friendly outdoor showers at this location are also being considered. I will keep the member updated on progress.
Item 9: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Ian Lynch
Ar moladh Cllr. Ian Lynch Cuidithe ag Cllr. Rita McInerney agus glacadh leis
That the WCMD request a coordinated review from the incoming Chief Executive of Clare County Council, to outline the Council’s commitment to addressing dereliction and economic growth of Kilrush with particular details on cross Directorate approach to the following projects:
· Kilrush Maritime Training Centre
· MARS Cinema
· Frances St and Town Square public realm
· Kilrush Tidy Towns overall national award
Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
The recent formation of the new Kilrush Town Team is key to progressing plans for the delivery of the overall Masterplan for Kilrush, working with Grainne Hassett and her team from Hasset Ducatez Architects and the Council’s Town Centre First team. A cross-Directorate approach to the delivery of projects linked to this plan is key and the West Clare MD are working with various departments, focusing on the projects that will have the most significant effect on addressing dereliction and economic growth for the town. There are challenges involved in progressing the larger scale projects, especially from a support funding perspective and competing projects throughout the County.
I will forward the request to the new Chief Executive once they are in place.
Cllr. Lynch explained that his reason for this motion is borne out of frustration that projects in Kilrush were left behind and he wants a commitment from Clare County Council it will focus across directorates on four specific projects that will help improve the town.
Item 10: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Ian Lynch
Ar moladh Cllr. Ian Lynch Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis
That the WCMD request a briefing from the planning department in relation to proposals to install HV cables for offshore wind projects across county Clare landscape. Detaining the statutory functions for Clare County Council and the elected member in relation to such proposals and to highlight current proposed project and future projects.
Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
A briefing has been organised by the Planning Department for this week in relation to this matter.
Physical Development
Item 11: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Joe Garrihy
Ar moladh Cllr. Joe Garrihy Cuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis
I call on West Clare MD to provide a detailed report on road conditions across the MD for local and regional roads. Assessment of funding and works required to bring our roads up to acceptable and required standard for transmission to our Oireachtas members and appropriate departments seeking this funding committed on a realistic multi annual basis.
Reply from Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA) and Eoin Troy, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
The following table outlines the current PSCI Rating for local and regional roads in the West Clare MD:
A full assessment is being carried out of the costs involved to bring the roads in the West Clare MD up to standard and detail on what is a realistic funding model that could be delivered on a muti annual basis to ensure that these roads are maintained to the required standard into the future. Once completed this can be finalised with the MD members before sending to Oireachtas Members and appropriate Departments.
Item 12: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Bill Slattery
Ar moladh Cllr. Bill Slattery Cuidithe ag Cllr. Shane Talty agus glacadh leis
To whom it concerns. I am requesting Clare County Council to honour the agreement given by signed contract on October 2013, to provide a stone wall, internal fencing and maintenance of water levels (ie) flooding that occurs on lands adjacent to the 478 route at Sandfield, Liscannor, Co Clare.
Reply from Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
Clare County Council previously applied to An Bord Pleanala for Substitute Consent for the project at Ballyellery, Liscannor. This was granted but included consent only for the roadworks already undertaken.
Any agreement in place with the landowner will be honoured by Clare County Council but is subject to the Substitute Consent granted and approval of impending Planning Applications.
A further Part 8 planning application, including associated environmental assessments is required to complete any outstanding works. This process is ongoing.
A subsequent application for funding, either via Active Travel or other sources will be necessary.
Ideally, this section of the R478 could be considered as part of a future footpath and cycleway link between Lahinch, Liscannor and Doolin.
Cllr Slattery and Cllr Talty expressed their frustration that this matter is ongoing since 2013 and noted previous motions in 2020, 2021 and 2024. They and were critical that the Council had not honoured the land agreement signed in 2013, the site is now prone to flooding and the farmer has been left with walls that are not complete and inadequate fencing. Cllr. Killeen suggested that it would be a good project for active travel.
Item 13: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Shane Talty
Ar moladh Cllr. Shane Talty Cuidithe ag Cllr. Bill Slattery agus glacadh leis
Ask that Clare County Council address the embarrassing condition of the public parking, footpath & kerbs along Main Street Liscannor (Outside the Restaurants) in advance of the busy season.
Reply from Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
The footpaths and kerb along Main Street, Liscannor are deemed public and will be considered for inclusion in our 2025 Schedule of Municipal District Works, subject to funding.
The ownership of the land between the public footpath and the three privately owned buildings is not registered in Landdirect.ie. We will investigate the ownership matter further, including consultation with the building owners.
Cllr Talty advised that the public parking, footpath and kerbing is in an embarrassing condition with the locals feeling that it hasn’t seen any local authority attention in some time.
Item 14: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Shane Talty
Ar moladh Cllr. Shane Talty Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis
Request that 25 metres of road at Rineen, Miltown Malbay be declared a public road. Located at 52.89001109198058, -9.389935328878307201D
Reply from Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
I would refer the elected member to the Clare County Council 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 adopted by the elected members of the West Clare MD here today, the process will have been initiated and we can move to the public consultation stage.
Item 15: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Gabriel Keating
Ar moladh Cllr. Gabriel Keating Cuidithe ag Cllr. Rita McInerney agus glacadh leis
To request Clare County Council carry out a tarmacadam overlay on the section of the road from the Carrigaholt Roundabout to Minister’s Cross at the Miltown Road, Kilkee. This is part of the main route from Loophead to the Cliffs of Moher.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
A section of the Strand Line is included for overlay on the 2025 Schedule of Municipal District Works. The Minister’s Cross Junction is due for a junction upgrade and a design has been prepared by TII. The scheme is working its way up the priority list and funding is awaited. The 2025 TII allocations have not yet been published.
Item 16: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Gabriel Keating
Ar moladh Cllr. Gabriel Keating Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis
To carry out sections of overlay (tarmacadam) on section of the N67 between Kilkee & Kilrush and on the N68 between Knockerra & Tullycrine.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
The N67 & N68 are National Secondary Roads, and all resurfacing works will have to approved and funded by TII. I will forward the request to our colleagues in Roads & Transportation, who liaise directly with TII.
A general discussion was had regarding the critical need for improvement works on this road.
Item 17: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Gabriel Keating
Ar moladh Cllr. Gabriel Keating Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis
To carry out road resurfacing works from Cross Village to Fierd on the R487-117 and west of Keatings Village Restaurant on the R487-132.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
The R487-117 is not included on the 2025 Schedule of Municipal District Works. It can be considered for inclusion on future Schedules. The R487-132 is not included on the 2025 Schedule of Municipal District Works. It too can be considered for inclusion on future Schedules. I have spoken with the Area Engineer and the local roads senior General Services Supervisor and asked them to ensure that both roads are maintained in a passable condition.
Item 18: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Dinny Gould
Ar moladh Cllr. Dinny Gould Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis
Request assessment of Road Safety concerns at Ballycorrig Church, at the request of Fr Brendan Coyne, recent accident again on 23rd February, thankfully no one seriously injured. Speed concerns on approach to church from both sides with lack of public car parking.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
Ballycorick Church is located just outside Ballynacally village on the R-473, a regionally important road. The speed limit at Ballycorick Church is 80 kmh-1. The speed limit was not altered by the recent speed limit review.
The issue seems to be with speeding cars. The enforcement of speeding legislation is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána. Fr. Coyne could make a speed limit appeal (https://www.speedlimits.ie/appeals) but the speed limit at this location was not reduced as part of the recent speed limit review, so an appeal may not succeed. Clare County Council does not have plans to reduce the speed limit at Ballycorick, nor is it scheduled for a low-cost safety scheme. I suppose the argument is that the road is not inherently unsafe, if drivers stick to the speed limit. Once again, ensuring that drivers adhere to the speed limit is not within the gift of Clare County Council.
An Garda Síochána collate information on roads where speeding is an issue and allocate enforcement resources (“Go-Safe” vans, etc.) accordingly. Go-Safe vans are possibly the most effective deterrent for speeding. Perhaps the matter might be raised with An Garda Síochána at local level in the first instance.
Cllr. Gould said that he brought this motion at the request of the Parish Priest. Speeding vehicles on the approach to the church from both sides are a major concern to local residents as is the issue of a lack of public car parking. Cllr Killeen and Cllr Shannon both supported the motion saying that a review of the speed limit is needed for the location to see if it is appropriate for the type of road and the density of traffic.
Item 19: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Dinny Gould
Ar moladh Cllr. Dinny Gould Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis
Safety measures urgently required at Cahermurphy School, Kilmihil. Footpaths required across road from school to enhance safety measures for children attended nearby creche and after school facilities, the current lights in place are need to be reviewed also.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
Cahermurphy National School – Scoil Mhichíl - is a rural school, located approximately 4 kilometres North of Kilmihil. The school is located on the L-2082 local primary road. The maximum speed limit applies at the school, but since February this speed limit is now 60 kmh-1 (reduced from 80 kmh-1). This reduction should help improve road safety. There are bends on either side of the school, which should also reduce traffic speed. There is a nearby creche and many infants travel between the creche and the school. I think that this is the primary safety concern. I have been in contact with the creche owner, who has offered to make land available for a public footpath. While a footpath would undoubtedly make the journey safer for those pupils attending both the school and the creche (and who thus have to walk between the two) there are a few issues –
Is it appropriate to construct a footpath on the side of the road in a rural area? It would be a very discordant feature for drivers. Perhaps it may be safer for all road users if the footpath were constructed on private property.
Funding for the approximately 80 linear metres of footpath required has not been made available to date. The path could be shorter if it were constructed on private property.
The Department of Education or Active Travel “Safe Routes to School” might be approached for funding, and in any event the team in the MD will explore opportunities to secure funding to deliver this project.
Cllr. Gould said that safety measures are urgently required at the School citing that footpaths are required across the road from the school to enhance safety measures for the 70 children who attend the creche and after school facilities. After much debate, the Members agreed to a separate meeting with the Executive to attempt find a solution.
Item 20: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Michael Shannon
Ar moladh Cllr. Michael Shannon Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gabriel Keating agus glacadh leis
I call on the West Clare MD to upgrade and repair the L2094 Road from Lynch’s Cross to Mullagh Village.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
The L-2094 is a local primary road leading to Mullagh village. It is not included on the 2025 Schedule of MD Works. It can be considered for inclusion on future Schedules. I have spoken with the Area Engineer and the local roads senior General Services Supervisor and asked them to ensure that the road is maintained in a passable condition.
Item 21: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Michael Shannon
Ar moladh Cllr. Michael Shannon Cuidithe ag Cllr. Ian Lynch agus glacadh leis
I call on the West Clare MD to urgently repair the Dough L6048 Road in Kilkee, the first 800metres.
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
The L-6048 is a local secondary road near Kilkee. It is not included on the 2025 Schedule of MD Works.
The road is a “bog rampart” road – i.e. the road is built on a peat foundation. The ground on either side of the road is lower than the road itself, so the road is an embankment. This causes the road to distort & deform more quickly than roads with foundations on better ground. We are aware that surface of the road has distorted in recent months. The West Clare MD has surveyed the road recently with a view towards carrying out some remedial works, but it will ultimately depend on the amount of funding available. I will get an estimate of the costs involved and the team in the MD will explore opportunities to secure funding to reconstruct & resurface this road.
Item 22: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Rita McInerney
Ar moladh Cllr. Rita McInerney Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Shannon agus glacadh leis
That Uisce Eireann supported by Clare County Council Rural Water section, but in place a planned takeover over schedule of all public supplied Group Water Scheme in the West Clare Municipal District. This initiative must have set timelines and be directly linked to Uisce Eireann's operational plans in the Kilrush and Ennistymon Electoral Areas.
Reply from John Noone LRSD / ERSD Analyst Uisce Éireann
I am pleased to advise that my colleagues in our Asset Management Team at Uisce Éireann have reviewed your query and the following response has become available:
Department circular WSP01/16 on the taking in charge of Publicly supplied group water schemes by Uisce Éireann sets out the process of GWSs takeover and is the legislative background.
The process in brief and (flowchart attached) is the group water scheme approach the LA and the rural departments within the LA then send an application to be TIC once the basic standards are met (basic standards also attached).
If the Legacy Team are satisfied that the basic standards are met then operations at UÉ are asked to review and often a site visit takes place. If operations are satisfied then the TIC of the scheme proceeds.
The Legacy team have NOT committed or planned to take over any scheme without it first going through the above process.
We would like to thank you for your correspondence, I trust that this update provides clarity to both you and your (District) members. Should you have any further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us on the details below.
Cllr. McInerney said she was not satisfied with the response as it did not answer her question. She wants Uisce Eireann to be contacted again and requested to provide a schedule for the takeover of all public supplied group water schemes in the West Clare MD.
Suspension of standing orders was proposed by Cllr. Ian Lynch and agreed to allow the meeting to continue
Item 23: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Ian Lynch
Ar moladh Cllr. Ian Lynch Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Shannon agus glacadh leis
That the WCMD would obtain a cost for the installation of speed cushions to help address speeding concerns at the following areas:
Shanakyle Road, Kilrush
O’Gorman Street, Kilrush
Pella Road, Kilrush
Back Road, Kilrush
Burton Street, Kilrush
John Paul Estate, Kilrush
Ennis Road, Kilmihil
Cree road, Cooraclare
Reply from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA)
West Clare MD notes the councillors concerns re speeding and I will reply to the councillor with a price once one becomes available. The use of speed cushions – once within the 50 kmh-1 speed limit – is acceptable to our colleagues in Road Design. Any road safety &/or traffic calming measures incorporated into the public road network will have to be approved and designed by our Road Design Section to ensure compliance with relevant road design standards. The Road Design Section may not have capacity at present to design multiple new road safety and traffic calming measures. Much will depend upon the final design arrived at, but at present the West Clare MD does not have a budget for designing / constructing significant road safety measures / traffic calming measures. A funding source will have to be in place before works could be considered.
Item 24: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Joe Killeen
Ar moladh Cllr. Joe Killeen Cuidithe ag Cllr. Bill Slattery agus glacadh leis
We call on Clare County Council to;
1. carry out an assessment of the coastal defences at Aughinish following damage during the recent storm;
2. carry out necessary repairs to the rock armour and other defences;
3. investigate and remediate the flooding on the islands approach road as part of the commendable road repair work in hand at the moment in Aughinish.
Reply from Tony Neville Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
1. A coastal flood and erosion risk management study was completed in 2017 for the Flaggy Shore and Aughinish Island. At that time no scheme was identified that was technically and environmentally possible, and deemed economically viable. The fact that the location in an area that is environmentally sensitive and of geological importance and the limited number of houses that were at risk mitigated against the possibility of a scheme. As requested, we will re-visit this study following the recent storms.
2. One issue identified during a meeting with Aughrim residents in late 2024 was a breach of the existing sea defence on the North West side of the causeway. For this particular section, our PMO office have applied for and have been successful in securing funding via the OPW managed “Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme”. All environmental assessments are currently being finalised by this office in conjunction with environmental consultants. We intend commencing the procurement process shortly and plan to have a contractor on site during Q2 this year.
3. We have included public roads in Aughinish on both our Restoration Improvement and Restoration Maintenance programmes in 2025, funded directly by the Department of Transport. We agree that coastal protection works to the approach road is necessary but this will require a separate application to the OPW to secure funding for such a scheme.
Cllr Killeen said that on a recent visit to the Island, the residents are grateful for the work undertaken on the roads. They are concerned that the road from the mainland to the causeway be further enhanced with rock armor to protect it from severe weather conditions.
Item 25: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Joe Killeen
Ar moladh Cllr. Joe Killeen Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Shannon agus glacadh leis
We ask that public lighting be upgraded at Dysart Church in the interest of health and safety.
Reply from Tony Neville, Senior Executive Engineer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
This office commits to examining the existing public lighting at Dysert Church and car park with a view to upgrading where necessary
Item 26: Notice of Motion from Cllr. Rita McInerney
Ar moladh Cllr. Rita McInerney Cuidithe ag Cllr. Joe Killeen agus glacadh leis
That the West Clare Municipal District conducts a survey of trees along main routes from West and North Clare to Ennis to identify those posing a risk to road users during severe weather. This assessment should be carried out in collaboration with the ESB, Coillte, and assist local landowners to address high-risk trees and enhance road safety.
Reply from John O’Malley, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Kilrush LEA) and Eoin Troy, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA)
The recent Storm Eowyn caused extensive damage to trees along a number of routes in the West Clare MD and Clare County Council staff in coordination with ESB, Coillte and landowners dealt with areas of immediate concern. This included clearing numerous areas where there were blockages or threats of blockages on the public road network. The MD will continue to monitor areas of any further concern and deal with these either directly where they are on public property or engage with landowners and forestry owners where they are responsible.
The following sets out the responsibility for Owners and Occupiers under the Roads Act 1993 –
Notice to Owners and Occupier Roads Act 1993
Roadside Trees, Ditches & Hedges
Clare County Council wishes to give notice that under the terms of the Roads Act 1993, landowners and occupiers of land are obliged to take all reasonable care to ensure that the trees, ditches, hedges and other vegetation growing on their land are not or could not become a danger to people using or working on a public road.
Examples of hazards might be dead or dying trees, ditches or hedges interfering with traffic, blocking footpaths, obstructing road signs or obscuring a view of the road ahead.
You are required to fell, cut, log, trim or remove such trees, ditches and hedges – for a distance of 1 metre horizontally and 5 metres vertically from the edge of the road. Adequate signposting should be provided and the Council notified before works commence.
Hedgecutting operations, should only be undertaken outside the critical bird nesting period of 1st March to 31st August, unless exempted under Section 40 of the Irish Wildlife Act 1976 (as amended).
Liability for damage or injury resulting from such hazards will rest with the landowner/occupier.
When cutting your hedges, care should be taken when dealing with scheduled invasive species subject to the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations such as Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam, Rhododendron, Giant Hogweed and many more (full list of ‘Third Schedule’ plant species available at https://yoursay.clarecoco.ie/invasive-species-clare). Please refer to Clare County Council’s dedicated Invasive Alien Species (IAS) page to identify, record and report problematic invasive species at https://yoursay.clarecoco.ie/invasive-species-clare
If you do find invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed and other ‘Third Schedule’ invasive species on your property, the most important thing that you can do is prevent any further spread of the species. Do not strim, cut, flair or chip the plants. Tiny fragments can regenerate new plants and cause the Japanese Knotweed to spread. It is also advised not to dig, move or dump soil which may contain plant material as this will contribute to its spread. Please note that it is a legal offence to plant, disperse, allow or cause the dispersal of invasive species listed on the ‘Third Schedule’ subject to Regulation 49 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (as amended).
Report it! The location and extent of the infestation should be reported to your local Municipal District Office/Area Office.
In addition there is a publication “A Guide for Landowners to Managing Roadside Trees”. It was published by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine & the Tree Council of Ireland. It sets out the legal situation clearly and provides good advice for landowners. See an extract below.
Item 27: Correspondence
No correspondence received
Item 28: Any Other Business
1. Special Meeting for the Schedule of Municipal District Works will take place on Monday 31st March, 2025 at 3pm.
2. The May meeting of West Clare MD will be held on the 20th May at 3pm in the Town Hall, Kilrush.
3. Cllr. Bill Slattery queried the timeline for completion of works on McInerneys Yard Car Park in Monastery Lane. Eoin Troy replied that works are ongoing, demolition work is nearly complete and consultation is taking place to increase the number of car spaces to maximise efficiencies.
Conclusion
The meeting then concluded.
Signed: ____________________________
Riarthóir Cruinnithe
Signed: _____________________________
Cathaoirleach
Date: ____________________________
Page last reviewed: 20/03/25
Content managed by: West Clare Municipal District
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