Youghal Town Council Meeting November 2011 – By Christy Parker

The meeting was attended by Town Manager Patricia Power, Town Clerk Liam Ryan, Deputy Town Clerk Helen Mulcahy, Town Engineer Paul Murray, Town Foreman Ger Lupton, Mayor Eoin Coyne (FF) and Cllrs Barbara Murray (FG), Michael Beecher (FG), Michelle Hennessy (SF), Eoin Flanagan (SF), Liam Burke (GP) Tara O’Connell (Lab), Sammy Revins (FF) and Mary Linehan-Foley (FF).

Previous to the meeting, former councillor Olly Casey made a brief presentation on his recent venture to New Bedford, Massachusetts as a special guest of Paris-based Irish theatre company Gare St. Lazare Players Ireland. Mr. Casey outlined in some detail the potential for Youghal’s tourism industry that has arisen from his visit.

 

Mr. Ryan provided a late addition to his report on foot of an e-mail received that morning from Liam Mannix, Project Manager of the Irish Walled Towns Network. The message congratulated Youghal on its advancing development of heritage tourism but warned that funding from the Heritage Council was now under threat following rumours to disband that organisation. The writer asked that the town council make known its concerns to Minister of State for Tourism Sean Sherlock (tele: 022-57761; 087-7402057) and local TDs.

The message advised that overseas visitors to Ireland had increased by 6% last summer while a 2010 Fáilte Ireland Visitor Attitudes Survey revealed that respondents were satisfied as follows: Beautiful Scenery, 96%; Unspoilt Environment 90%; Nature, wildlife, flora 88% and Interesting history and culture, 87%.

Mall Lane

Following the town clerk’s report, Cllr Hennessy welcomed the decision to reopen the Mall Lane temporarily for Christmas. She said all the councillors had been “bombarded” with representations to that effect. The town manager fully endorsed the Mall Lane project, saying it would have been “absolutely unthinkable that we would send money back for this project. You don’t refuse money when it’s available.”  She said extra signage indicating the town centre would be erected shortly.

Cllr Murray was equally delighted and thanked the town clerk for supporting the business and community, elaborating that Mr. Ryan was a major driver in accessing funding of €1.6m towards works in the town that would improve its attractions and potential across several facets. She felt people were under pressure and “afraid” when they voiced concerns that were sometimes unduly critical. Cllr Linehan-Foley was less enraptured by the solution considering it added €2,000 to the job’s cost, whilst there remained a list of unfulfilled objectives due to lack of resources.

Votes of Congratulations:

Cllr Linehan Foley congratulated Youghal camogie’s minor team on winning the County Minor Final when they defeated Ballinora on November 6th. Cllr Flanagan paid tribute the Youghal Concerned Citizens for their “wonderful” Halloween festival over three days. Cllr Beecher endorsed his sentiments and also thanked Joyce Hosford for organising the recent Phantom of the Opera production at  the Collegiate Church. Cllr Burke praised Olly Casey for his ambassadorial role in New Bedford.

Town Foreman’s Report:

Cllr Burke complained of potholes at Island View, Ballyclamssey and between Windmill Hill and St. Raphael’s. Cllr Murray echoed Cllr Burke’s pothole concerns and asked whether anything could be done to re-surface “drastic” Nealon’s Quay.

Car parking

Cllr Linehan-Foley asked for clarification on paid parking on the main street amidst rumours of much ticketing and wide discontent. Mr. Ryan explained that the permanent traffic warden was on extended sick leave due to injury. In his absence parking violations had deteriorated considerably, with some traders and/or employees even parking outside their own premises to the detriment of consumers. The general public were complaining so the council deployed a traffic warden for two weeks to reassert bye law authority. In that period “and contrary to the rumour mill,” only a dozen tickets had been issued, comprising three for illegally parking in a disability space, three for parking in a loading bay, four for parking on double lines, one for non-display of road tax and one for parking in a bus bay.

The town manager applied “internationally accepted” statistics to the argument, equating a loss of revenue measuring €25 per space, multiplied by ten take-ups per day in a well-managed parking system. “Youghal has plenty of free parking off-street,” she added. “We can have chaos or support trade with a happy medium.” Cllr O’Connell said she some traders favoured supplementing parking, leading Mr. Ryan to recall a project whereby the traders would refund the charge to people who spent a certain sum, but which remained inactive.

Cllr Murray asked how the three-hour car par system was working and was told it was working fine until Cllr Revins interceded that “the Fair Field has moved to the strand.” He explained that motorists who previously parked in town and took the bus to Cork now parked at the strand, footpaths included, and underwent their Bus Éireann experience from there. He wanted the McCurtainstown car park patched up to encourage parking within rather than approximate to the strand bus stop outside his business premises. He believed three hour street parking in the area might encourage such usage.

College gardens vulgarity

Cllr Beecher alluded to “disgusting” anti-social behaviour, including gross indecency by children who were “dropping their trousers” by way of intimidating visitors to the Adoration Chapel in Emmet’s Place. Additionally, acts of vandalism against property in the gardens was occurring and the caretaker was been verbally abused. The gardaí were investigating but he asked if CCTV could be installed at the location.

The town clerk said some of individuals involved had been identified and their names given to gardaí. “They are 14 to 15 year-olds and we must wonder whether parents know where their children are and what they are doing,” he commented. Mr. Ryan added that should the offences continue names would be highlighted at council meetings and published. Cllr Murray urged that the issue be raised in schools, Foróige and other youth centres. It will also to be discussed at next month’s Joint Policing Committee meeting.

Christmas parking

Cllr Hennessy wanted leaves cleared from the Jail Steps and also illegally dumped rubbish from that and other areas. She requested the return of CCTV and Mr. Ryan replied that remote CCTV is continuing to operate. He said most people, when caught, pay the fine and avoid publicity. The councillor also wanted a ‘town centre’ sign returned to the grotto area. Cllr Flanagan asked for more dog litter signs on the Lighthouse Hill and wondered if there would be some free street parking over Christmas.

The town clerk said street parking was dictated by the bye-laws and was contributing to an annual budget that was extremely difficult to maintain. Its removal would have economic repercussions. Reflecting the general consensus that the council should display ‘goodwill’ towards shoppers in the festive season, Cllr Murray argued that street parking “was never intended to be a revenue generating operation” but had evolved that way. Following further discussion, it was agreed that the bye-laws could not be changed in the time available but the unspoken sentiment was that the Christmas spirit may well prevail across the two days prior to December 25th.

Cork County Council Items:

Cllr Linehan-Foley asked that double yellow lines be restored adjacent to the wheelchair ramp near Cuman na Daoine. She highlighted that potholes in Strand Street were causing homes –and nerves -to vibrate when heavy vehicles trundle past. The councillor then sought an update on the diving rocks restoration and sought the truth against rumours that the council had prevented an individual from undertaking the work.

The town clerk said the contractor would be on site at the diving rocks after the winter and the area re-opened for Easter. Regarding the voluntary offer, he said he individual concerned did not meet the required criteria regarding health and safety compliance.

Cllr Murray sought information ponding at Radhac na Mara. The town engineer said the county council were taking the estate in charge, had drawn down a bond of €150,000 and the ponding would be included in works. The councillor asked when bins would be removed from Claycastle as they were being misused and also sand in the gullies. The engineer explained that the county council was suffering from severe labour restrictions. A road budget increase of €600,000 (to €1.6m) for the east Cork area meant that the town workers were on the highways and byways and when such rural tasks were completed, hopefully before Christmas, they would address such matters in town.

Right of rail!

Cllr Murray questioned whether Íarnród Éireann had followed due process when fencing off an area at the rear of Tides, by which a pathway used for 50 years had been closed, along with access to sluice drainage. The town clerk explained that, as he understood it, the move followed a personal liability claim against the company. He said there is no such thing as a right of way over a rail line and so Íarnród Éireann was fully entitled to close the access. Regarding the sluice, an agreement existed between all parties to allow access by the local authority when required. Mr Ryan also observed that the town council had persistently been asking the company to clean up and secure their grounds in the strand area and this was now occurring.

Cllr Hennessy raised the matter of ponding at Springfield Court “for a third year.” She wanted a parking space removed on the left had side of Cork Hill near the pipe band hall as cars parked there diminishing room for upward traffic meeting downward vehicles. Cllr Hennessy’s other road concerns included a raised surface near Cost Cutters, potholes at Blackwater Heights and the entrance to Dun Chorán and dips that lend themselves to ponding in Clonpriest and Ballymadog. She thanked him for the “dream” surface at Raheen Road before the engineer agreed to tend to her requests.

Cllr Flanagan asked that disabled parking bays be restored on the newly-surfaced main street. Cllr Burke asked if the engineer had inspected “the old toilet wall at the top of the Lighthouse Hill. (He hadn’t but he would.) The councillor wondered if the outfall at the front strand is working properly (It is) and he then relayed “the usual list of broken footpaths, i.e. Tallow Street, South Main Street and the junction of South Abbey/Strand Street.”

Mayor Coyne wanted a yellow box installed at the entrance to the old monastery apartment complex in Strand Street. The town clerk said it was an enforcement matter as there was a yellow line there but Cllr Linehan Foley said it was being ignored and gardaí could not police it daily.

[ CLICK HERE for Mayor of Youghal Eoin Coyne's open invitation to all clubs and organisations address ]

Mayor’s Business:

Mayor Coyne said he had been approached by “one or two people” regarding Youghal launching a ‘Gathering’ initiative throughout 2013 in reflection of Minister for Tourism Leo Varadkar’s proposal to entice Ireland’s emigrants to return as tourists. The mayor said he would shortly be inviting every group and organisation in Youghal to a meeting to discuss ways of organising and co-ordinating events to develop the local strand of a strategy that is being marketed as being potentially worth almost €400m to the Irish economy. “I’m sure there will be grants available,” he added, before advocating strong co-operation between all involved -what Il Gaffer Trapattoni would label one of ‘the leetle details’ no doubt.

Report by Cllr Linehan-Foley on the Tidy Towns Task Force:

(to follow in later post)

(1.29)

Traffic Management Plan for Ashe Street, De Valera Street, Emmet Place and Church Street:

The council agreed to hold a special, ‘in committee’ (private) meeting on this issue on Tuesday November 29th at 10 am.

Report on Works Carried out to Part Section M of Town Walls: (to follow in later post)

Submission for Tourism Funding from Youghal Chamber of Commerce & Development:

The Chamber had submitted two letters to the council that between them brought some turbulence upon the waters of proceedings. The first letter sought an increase in grant aid to €25,000 from the 2010 figure of €10,000. The second letter sought a 15% decrease in the Commercial Rate for 2012. The town clerk said such a decrease “would cost Youghal Council €212,817” and wondered should it have been addressed to Santa Claus instead! Complaining of Youghal languishing amongst “the dearest rates and lowest rents,” that letter also contrived to link a request by three councillors for an 18% increase in the Commercial rate (which did not transpire) in 2009 with the subsequent departure of Tytex who, apparently, had sought a decrease. The tone of the testimony did not go down too well, needless to say.

Cllr Linehan-Foley was first to respond. “Are they saying that we shifted Tytex out of Youghal!” she asked incredulously. She then recalled the late Cllr Tommy O’Connell giving a full and informed report on rents on the main street, which reflect an alternative perspective. The Chamber, she said, did not dispute his figures and subsequently agreed, in a meeting with the council, that both bodies should and would work together to improve Youghal. “Now we get this,” fumed Cllr Linehan-Foley. “We’ve already agreed to spend €2,000 extra to re-open the Mall Lane to help businesses. I’m disgusted with this letter and I’d like the Chamber to come back in here and tell us what they really have under their skin!”

Mr Ryan pointed out that business areas outside the town boundary would pay a Commercial rate of €74.74 to Cork County Council but that Youghal Town Council charges €65.31, resulting in a 12.6% subsidy from the town council.

Cllr Murray agreed that Tytex reference was “a bit below the belt” before directing attention towards the town’s ‘superloos,’ with which the Chamber’s correspondence also expressed dissatisfaction. She recommended their contract not be renewed and, while not seeking the abolition of public toilets, especially with dozens of extra tour buses imminent, she advocated a search for “better alternatives” than present existed. Mr Ryan observed that it “offered an opportunity” for a business initiative, such as would be grasped in other tourist centres

Cllr Linehan-Foley and her colleagues were not enamoured by other aspects of the Chamber’s missiles – sorry, missals- either, including its expenditure details, (repayments to Credit Union and €5,000 to YSEDG, etc) and the dearth of information on other grant sources and contributions by its own members.  A meeting is to be sought with the Chamber but it all doesn’t augur well for the 2013 Gathering project!

Funding Applications:

The most recent additions to the list includes:  Queen of the Sea Festival, Youghal Methodist Church Pipe Organ, Youghal Pigeon Club, Youghal United AFC, CRY, Youghal Musical Society, Youghal Choral Society, Youghal Men’s Social Club. Applications are now closed.

Report on Youghal Main Drainage Scheme: Click here

 

Any Other Business:

The town manager informed the meeting that the government’s new winter preparation site, www.winterready.ie contains extensive advice and information on how to cope with weather conditions such as experienced in 2010 and 2011 (and which, now we are more prepared, probably won’t return of course!) Indeed the site is a salt mine of information, with links to various other relevant agencies too. Cork County Council she added had also fashioned its site (www.corkcoco.ie) to advise on a freeze and furthermore, information leaflets will shortly be distributed through many public outlets. Twitter and such social networking sites will also carry updates and advice on such issues as salt and grit locations, neighbour and neighbourhood alerts etc…

YOUGHAL TOWN COUNCIL is to create 34 cremation plots at the town’s North Abbey cemetery. Town Clerk Liam Ryan told October’s Town Council meeting that three areas unsuitable for regular burials would facilitate 20, eight and six cremation plots respectively. “The level of demand is increasing,” said the town clerk, adding that the areas will be specifically landscaped to create “a very serene and picturesque” walled garden environment.

The plots, each measuring a square metre, will cost €250 to €300 and meet multiple requirements. Grave plots currently cost €600 by comparison. “The life expectancy of the graveyard is about eight years,” added Mr Ryan with unwitting irony. The plots are expected to be available by Christmas.

YOUGHAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 2011
By Christy Parker

Present were Assistant Town Clerk Helen Mulcahy, Town Manager Patricia Power, Town Engineer Paul Murray, Town Foreman Ger Lupton, Mayor Cllr Eoin Coyne (FF), Cllrs Barbara Murray (FG), Michael Beecher (FG), Michelle Hennessy (SF), Eoin Flanagan (SF), Liam Burke (Green Party), Sammy Revins (FF) and Mary Linehan-Foley (FF)

Resignation of Tommy O’Connell

The meeting opened with a letter of resignation from Tommy O’Connell, which was read to the chamber by assistant the town clerk. Mr. O’Connell had returned to the council last February, after an absence of two decades, when he was co-opted by the Labour party to replace his party colleague Donie Daly. Never hesitant in expressing his feelings, the veteran politician’s presence in the chamber had invigorated proceedings on several occasions. Equally so, he had brought an insight born of experience and astute thinking to several issues. Unfortunately ill health had rendered his tenure short-term.

In his letter, Mr. O’Connell thanked the councillors for their courtesy and support throughout his term and their kind wishes towards him since his illness. He said it had been “an absolute honour and privilege to have had the opportunity to work for the people of Youghal again” and he had “enjoyed getting to know and work with the council members.” The letter thanked especially town clerk Liam Ryan, who had shown him “the utmost courtesy and respect” and who had “given generously of his time and advice” in assisting him.

Mr O’Connell’s letter proceeded, “I have always prided myself I taking very seriously the role of councillor and I hope that whoever succeeds me will also see it as great opportunity to have a part in making and keeping Youghal a great place.” In wishing the members “the very best in the future,” he reassured them: “Don’t worry, I won’t be back in another twenty years!”

The assistant town clerk, the town manager and the councillors in turn paid sincere tribute to Mr. O’Connell and wished him the very best in his retirement. Media representatives don’t get to speak at council meetings but similar sentiments would have echoed from that quarter. An interesting and humorous voice is now absent from proceedings.

Congratulations:

Cllr Linehan-Foley congratulated Team Youghal for “putting Youghal on the map” through their Race Around Ireland fundraising cycle and following on their previous Race Across America achievement. Cllr Murray paid tribute to Cork County Council’s engineering department on west Cork’s Mizen Head footbridge, which she called “an absolute wonder of engineering” and a potential award winner. Cllr Beecher congratulated Comhaltas Eochaille on their highly successful summer season and its overall work with young people. Mayor Coyne concurred and also praised rugby players Lee  McCarthy and Cillian Ansbro on representing Munster at under-18 level.  Youghal Concerned Citizens were lauded by Cllr Hennessy for their excellent contributions to the town during the summer. Cllr Flanagan congratulated the Youghal Pipe Band on their recent concert performances in the Collegiate Church. “A vote of congratulations in reverse,” explained Cllr Burke as he passed praised to Youghal Town Council on behalf of the Board of Management of Pobalscoil na Tríonoide for the Tidy Towns bronze medal award. The mayor returned with a tribute to Cllr Burke on his “belated Leaving Cert Honours” acquirement. Cllr Revins congratulated Youghal and Cork County local authorities and associated Fás workers on the Tidy Towns performances. He also congratulated Youghal Heritage committee for its Heritage Day celebration.

Town Foreman’s Report:

Cllr Revins wanted 25 kph speed limits installed and advertised an all estates amidst rising safety concern. He asked if property owners in the Strand –including banks-could be imposed upon to keep their premises and back gardens clean, referring specifically to a property “across from Clancy’s.” Cllr Burke raised the issue of pot holes at Nealon’s Quay. Cllr Linehan-Foley was concerned about the pavement slabs near the snooker hall area, due to which she said she had recently suffered “a nasty fall.” She feared for the elderly in the circumstances. Furthermore, tree stumps that remained from some tree felling (due to vandalism) in the same area were also a risk to pedestrians, especially at night, she added. The Nealon’s Quay potholes also concerned her.

A major pothole at Cherry Vale worried Cllr Beecher, as did a gully in Hill View, which he said needed urgent replacing. Cllr Hennessy asked when Springfield Court would be taken in council control. The acting town clerk said it would occur soon, the developer having departed and the council yet to complete a short snag list. Cllr Flanagan sought an update on the speed bumps and was told to refer to the town clerk.

Derelict sites

The mayor bemoaned the number of derelict building in Youghal, especially in the northern sphere and asked if the property owners could be approached. The town manager relied that every effort was being made to address the problem but that the Derelict Sites Act was a particularly difficult and complex piece of legislation. It required a structured approach involving detailed reports pertaining to different sub-sections it from the town engineer and town architect to name but two. “We have made significant progress in some cases,” she added and offered to implement further action wherever required. Cllr Murray, by way of lessening the undesirable effect a little, said that boardings could meantime be made less ugly by incorporating artwork on them. “Perhaps it could be done through a school or youth project,” she suggested.

Cllr Beecher asked if NAMA now owned the former Murray Kitchens on Mill Road and was told yes. He then wondered if NAMA should be asked to clear it up. Ms Power said in cases where there is still an asset on a site, it is easier get a liquidator to act on improving a derelict site but where the site itself is the only asset it was difficult. “We are basically in completely unchartered waters,” she elaborated. “The Minister for Finance is effectively the de facto owner when a company has become insolvent,” she added. The manager agreed with Cllr Murray’s perception that “a community approach can sometimes be more effective than a statutory approach,” especially when an owner is bankrupt.” Meanwhile she advocated moving early on a property before it became seriously depreciated and sought updates with a view to compiling a quarterly list.

Cllr Beecher then urged that action be taken on a derelict property in Friar Street that, he was then informed, was now owned by a bank. “There is a vermin problem there,” he advised (presumably referring to the derelict site). Cllr Revins believed the said building was “in danger of collapsing,” while Cllr Linehan- Foley described it as “pigeon heaven.” She said the situation was unfair on the nearby residents.

Main Street and library

Cllr Murray asked when the main street resurfacing would be starting. The town engineer said it would be starting on September 26th. Cllr Murray inquired as to ponding at Ballyvergan being resolved and asked whether the bond from the developer whose work preceded the ponding remained available. The engineer said he was pursuing it. Cllr Murray then asked when the former Collins’s bakery was to be painted and was told the work was imminent, with a contractor appointed. Cllr Linehan-Foley interjected that it was a shame it was idle, while the county council were paying rent for a property elsewhere. She asked for a relevant report for October’s meeting. Cllr Murray questioned whether the site –with its archaeological complications- was now a suitable site for a library anyway. Cllr Linehan-Foley asked why, if it was suitable before, it was no longer so. “We’ll be saying the same thing next year and the year after,” she lamented.

Cllr Revins said residents near St. Coran’s Well wanted a nearby site cleaned up and also asked that accumulating sand be removed from a bend at Claycastle. Cllr Linehan-Foley wants grids on the pavement near the Bank of Ireland repaired or replaced. The engineer said they would be replaced.

Cork County Council Items:

Cllr Beecher wanted the “Third World” old Cork road entrance to Youghal –at the bypass- properly maintained. “Ok, depending on funding,” replied the engineer. The councillor also wondered if a sign on an island near the Mill Road roundabout would be “lit up” as its design intended. He asked too that a sign be installed at Kilcoran Road as an ambulance lost direction there recently. He was told that the signage was imminent. Cllr Burke asked the engineer to look at a remaining section of an old toilet at the top of the Lighthouse Hill that was in danger of collapsing from its cliff face. He then listed “usual list of broken footpaths,” i.e. Tallow Street, South Main Street and the junction of Strand Street/South Abbey.

Diving rocks and weather:

The mayor sought an update on the diving rocks repairs. Mr. Murray said the works required step repairs and metal work at the location at a cost of €21,000. He would consult with town clerk on funding. Cllr Murray asked if an offer to conduct the work free of charge had been received. Ms Power said there had been an approach but it was not apt for “work of such a substantial nature.” She said there had been an insurance use also.

Mayor Coyne inquired if there was a contingency plan to ensure water supplies in severe winter weather. The town manager said each local authority had such a plan but that much of Youghal’s water problems last winter arose from frozen stopcocks. She advised people to check their appliances and also the lagging on unprotected pipes. The cork county council website had advice on the issue, she reminded. In response to an inquiry from Cllr Murray on salt reserves, the manager said there were supplies stored in Killeagh and Youghal, spreaders would be available, grit would also be stored, a list of depots and priority routes was being prepared and negotiations were on-going with various groups towards implementation. Cllr Murray advised it borne on mind that Cork Hill, Pobalscoil, etc., be given priority status.

Mayor’s Business:

The mayor said he had been in contact with ‘anti-toxic sludge’ group BEAG who, he said, wished to meet the councillors at October’s meeting. Ms. Mulchay said it would be “difficult” to do so while the planning process was still unfolding. Cllr Linehan-Foley asked her to “explain to the media and the public the facts” regarding Eras Eco’s application to process toxic waste. She recounted that Cork County Council had granted planning permission, which was being appealed to Bord Pleanala. Meanwhile this appeal was frozen while the Bord investigated whether the application had been made under the appropriate planning legislation.

That Eras Eco application

Cllr Hennessy –well all the councillors really- pleaded that it be explained why the town council could not hold sway on the controversial planning application. “We cannot comment or interfere with any ‘live planning application,’ confirmed the assistant town clerk simply. “We can’t touch them, or we’re finished!”, reiterated Cllr Linehan Foley. “And that needs to get out there to the public. It’s totally a Cork County Council issue.”

The mayor thanked various groups for the programme summer activities of which space prevent us repeating.

Projects Update: Mall Lane Streetscape Works & Town Walls: Ms. Mulcahy said the contracts had been awarded and work would commence within a fortnight.  The engineer said he would consider a recommendation from Cllr Revins that the Mall Lane project be conducted in tandem with the main street resurfacing project. The Eco Boardwalk: Construction costs exceeded funding and the engineers are attempting to resolve the issue based on material and construction.

Report by Cllr. Burke on Heritage MPC:

Report by Chairperson on Claycastle Leisure Company. Cllr Linehan–Foley said a lease had been signed with award-winning Aura to manage the centre until 2016. €400,000 government funding had been acquired to upgrade the centre, which will focus on reducing running costs, ‘green’ energy initiatives and disability-related services. Works will start very soon.

Youghal Socio Economic Development Group Report: Cllr Murray described how the YSEDG and YoughalkChamber of Commerce and Tourism had invited and subsequently chaperoned the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring around Youghal. The minister He had stressed the importance of having “shovel ready” projects which the town clerk had already prepared. “Consequently we got funding of €400,000 for the leisure centre plus another €12,500 for other projects,” she reported. “We lobbied him for ‘site specific’ marketing funding,” she added.

Cllr Murray recalled that Joyce Hosford was the successful applicant from 16 to manage the Mall Arts centre and had worked with Peter Kelly of Franc on the recent marriage to be aired on television in January. The group had met with the Head of Finance in Cork County Council to seek funding for the next three years. At present the YSEDG was chiefly concentrating on the Clock Gate funding project. It was wary of funding caps and would be working with other organisations on a strategic approach to this problem. She concluded with praise Youghal Enterprise Centre staff and congratulations on their recent €25,000 lottery win,

YOUGHAL fire service were called to the scene of a gorse fire near the diving rocks area at Youghal Lighthouse last Wednesday July 13th. One fire tender attended the scene and managed to quickly extinguish the blaze. Nobody was injured in the fire which was brought quickly under control by the Youghal fire brigade. It is not yet known how the fire began.

The entrance to the diving rocks has been closed to the public since May 2010. The Town Manager ordered the closure of the popular bathing area adjacent to the Youghal lighthouse following a safety audit report from the Irish Water Safety Association. Youghal Town Council commission a new health and safety audit on the town’s diving rocks, following the closure of the popular bathing area on health and safety grounds.

Youghal has a new Town Mayor. Councillor Eoin Coyne of Fianna Fail was elected today (June 21st 2011) at the Town Council’s AGM in the Town Hall. Councillor Coyne – who was Deputy Mayor for the past year – succeeds his party colleague, Mary Linehan Foley as the Town’s first citizen. Councillor Coyne was proposed by his party colleague, Sammy Revins and seconded by Green Party councillor, Liam Burke. The vote was passed unanimously. The new Mayor was first elected to Youghal Town Council in 2009.

There was a contest for the position of Deputy Mayor. Councillor Sammy Revins was elected by 5 votes to 2 having been proposed by Councillor Mary Linehan Foley and seconded by Councillor Liam Burke. Councillor Michael Beecher was proposed by his party colleague, Barbara Murray and seconded by himself.

The new Sinn Fein Cork East Constituency Office is now open at The Parlour, The Mall, Youghal. The office will be open weekdays from 9.30am – 5pm and by appointment on saturdays. The office will be officially opened in the next few weeks. Info: CRY 104fm Youghal Local Radio

One of the youngest mayors ever to hold the post in the country plans to address the issue of emigration amongst his peers. Twenty-two year-old Fianna Fáil councillor, Eoin Coyne was appointed mayor of Youghal Town Council earlier this week, a position he hopes will allow him tackle the ongoing problem of young people leaving the country.

“There is a significant amount of ‘brain drain’ happening at the moment, something that I personally see amongst my friends. A week does not go by without having to attend a friend’s leaving party before they move to Australia or Canada,” Cllr Coyne told the Cork News. “It is sad situation to see friends who have degrees or trades leaving because there are no opportunities here for them.

“I have realistic expectations. I know I’m not going to change the world. However, I would be hoping that Youghal Town Council could work with local businesses on setting up schemes to get people back to work. Small changes will make the difference.”

Cllr Coyne, a former student of Government at UCC, added that he was “delighted” and “humbled” to be elected, stating that it was “one of the biggest honours to be your town’s mayor”. He explained that he first developed an interest in politics and current affairs during secondary school, joining the Fianna Fáil party whilst in his Leaving Certificate year. He was first elected to Youghal Town Council in 2009 and last year was appointed the role of deputy mayor, a position, he said, which allowed him a “small sample” of his new title. He will now follow in the footsteps of his predecessor, former mayor and fellow Fianna Fáil councillor, Mary Linehan Foley.

With the next council meeting due in three weeks, Cllr Coyne said that while there is a significant age gap between himself and other councillors, he is assured that they will welcome him into the position. “Some councillors may be 20 or 30 years older than me but they are all fully supportive, as I was unanimously voted in.” he said.

Cllr Coyne added that he hoped his appointment would encourage more young people to take up politics. “Politics is for everyone and not just for 50 year-old, middle-class males, which has been the demographic for so long. It is now time to encourage young people to get involved,” he said.

Info: The Cork News.ie

Click on image to enlarge

Green Party Councillor Liam Burke delivered a comprehensive Municipal Heritage Policy Committee Report to the December Town Council meeting. Dealing with the period from July 2010, the update included the following:

Town Walls:

Works completed, with the aid of €200,000 grant aid from the Heritage Council/Irish Walled Towns, involved removal of vegetation, cleaning, repointing, strengthening and repair works to sections of the walls and tower nearest lower end of Sarsfield’s Terrace.

Click on related video:
Video Reporter: Shane Supple – Camera: Kieran McCarthy

Emmet Place:

The continuation of heritage footpaths from St. Mary’s College gates to the top of De Valera Street will commence in the New Year.

Architectural Appraisal of the Historic Quartet of Youghal Town:

Project completed and a draft will be presented to the town council early in 2011.

Clock Gate:

A Draft Conservation and Management Plan, funded by SECAD and prepared by Margaret Gowen, will come before the council for adoption in January. A Structural Report has been conducted and a Business Plan is being prepared.

Graveyard Wall:

It is expected that the collapsed section between St. Mary’s Collegiate Church and St. Mary’s College gardens will be repaired by early 2011.

Graveyard Trail of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church:

The project has been completed and this has facilitated guided tours of the graveyard, the first of which last Medieval Day, saw 150 people participate.

Linkage with Waterford Institute of Technology:

A partnership has been established with the Architectural Department of WIT, whose students are conducting projects in Youghal. Last September 150 students spent a number of days studying various aspects of the town. It is hoped to involve other third level institutions in 2011.

Medieval Day:

An outstanding success was recorded on the 2010 Medieval day, Sunday August 22nd. The estimated 8,000 attendance marked the highest of any participating town in Ireland. Local traders deserve praise and thanks for sponsoring raffle prizes as do the the hard-working voluntary committee, including Mayor Mary Linehan-Foley and Cllrs Barbara Murray and Eoin Coyne. Gratitude is expressed to all who participated, along with media outlets.

Projects in 2011:

Difficulty in accessing funding is expected but it is hoped that some money can be accessed for further work on the Town Walls. It is also hoped that an application for a Conservation and Management Plan for St. Mary’s Collegiate Church graveyard will succeed and that the year see completion of the proposed Historical Towns Atlas for Youghal.

Conclusion:

Cllr Burke extended thanks and a happy Christmas and New Year to all Heritage Committee members, to the mayor and Youghal town councillors, for funding provision and other assistance, to the town manager Patricia Power,   town clerk Liam Ryan, council staff, the Heritage Council of Ireland and the Irish Walled Towns Network for their continuing support financial and otherwise.

Click on image to see the recent work done on Youghal Town Walls

The prolonged procedure known as the Traffic Management Plan for Ashe Street, Church Street & De Valera Street moves a step closer when the Town Council discusses issue following the conclusion of the public consultation at a special meeting on November 2nd. Prior to October’s town council meeting Eileen Coleman, Traffic Management Engineer with Cork County Council updated the chamber on the Draft Proposals.

The engineer’s report first reiterated that the plan’s objective is “to improve amenity and safety on Ashe Street, Emmet Place, De Valera Street and Church Street, while maintaining access to services and residences.” Inherent in this, it intendeds to:  a) remove cut-through traffic, allowing access for residents and to services but reducing non-local traffic; b) preserve the road pavement at Church Street; c) enhance pedestrian environment in respect of tourism; d) ensure Church Street closure does no impact negatively on other areas; e) ensure a better quality of life for all local residents.
Since Church Street closed, De Valera Street has experienced extra traffic as drivers access the main street travelling eastwards (towards Waterford).
What is proposed:
The draft proposals are: i) Church Street local access only and no through traffic; ii) Ashe Street two-way;  iii) De Valera Street one-way from Main Street to Ashe Street. It is unclear whether this latter proposal may be a misrepresentation as it would entail traffic exiting De Valera Street car park having to turn left and detour through Windmill Hill to access South Main Street. It perhaps is intended that De Valera Street traffic is two way the 50 metres from the main street to the car park and one-way thereafter. On the other hand, the report does cite a potential disadvantage as being ‘a slight additional journey time for vehicles travelling eastwards.’

Gains:
Meanwhile the anticipated gains are: i) less through traffic for locals; ii) improved pedestrian environment due to less traffic; iii) enhanced environment in the historic core and associated preservation of road infrastructure; iv) removal of cut-through traffic.
In regards to funerals, it is being considered that adjustable bollards maybe installed on Church Street to allow corteges to access North Main Street via that route.
Submissions received:
The public consultation process elicited the following submissions: i) An Garda Siochana content, assuming adequate signage erected; ii) Cal Flavin: too much traffic using Windmill Hill and increased dual traffic on Ashe Street, along with increased traffic on North Main Street. Supports closing Chapel Lane and recommends exit from Priory Court be made safe;  iii) De Valera Street Residents Committee: Broadly welcomes but consultation with regard to possible traffic calming measures and a walkway on a trial basis at first; iv) David & Mae Clark, Quarry Road –also on behalf of their parents: believes a u-turn area be provided in the interests of safety. Foresees increased traffic eastwards on Ashe Street. Concerned about traffic conflict after church services. Recommends restricting Ashe Street  to one-way from Cross Lane to Windmill Hill; v) Caroline Newell, Coastguard Station: Object sot proposals. Disfavours removal of cut-through. Says traffic can access Ashe Street through three points but only exit from one. Concerned about Windmill Hill/South Main Street junction. Believes Ashe Street will be no go area at mass time and has concerns about the junction exiting Priory Court car park and accessing the doctor’s office; vi) Oliver JJ Broderick,Ashe Street welcomes the proposals but observes that cars using Church Street will have to turn to access Windmill Hill. Sees increased traffic using narrow sections of Ashe Street and difficulties for cars due to parking on Emmet Street. Proposes making Ashe Street one-way towards Windmill Hill.

Responding to the submissions:
The report proceeds that, 1) Access to the church during ceremonies would be met by limited car parking on Ashe Street and Emmet Place along with Priory Court car park. Also, locals may access the church from De Valera Street; 2) A turning point could be provided on Emmet Place; 3) Signage and road marking are proposed; 4) Windmill Hill has sufficient capacity to accommodate increased traffic  and is more appropriate than narrow Ashe Street. 4) There are proposed changes for accessing Priory Court car park. 5) Traffic calming measures are not presently proposed but the measures would result in reduced traffic which, being local, will not be concerned with getting from A to B as fast as possible. 6) Ashe Street will have three access and one exit points but one of the plan’s objectives is to remove the cut-through traffic, with motorists using the main street primarily.
Finally:
Next month’s special meeting will enable the councillors to discuss the draft proposals and make amendments if they so wish. The proposals will then be brought before the council’s November meeting proper a week later where a vote will be taken whether to adopt them as the finished Plan or otherwise.

The final town council meeting of 2009 was conducted in the absence of Town Clerk Liam Ryan, who was ill. Assistant Town Clerk Helen Walsh deputised. The meeting commenced with Cllr Mary Linehan Foley thanking her chamber colleagues for the many good wishes, flower bouquets and kind inquiries during her recent hospitalisation. “I felt humbled and I really appreciated it,” she said. The councillor in turn congratulated Youghal Town Council on this year’s Christmas lights, noting that “the town is looking well.”
By Christy Parker

Cllr Sammy Revins congratulated Jane Quirke from Ballyclamsy, a qualified Charters Accountant in the auditors department of Price Waterhouse Corporation. Earlier this month , Jane achieved joint first place in Ireland on taking her Taxation exams , who finished first in Ireland in her Taxation exams. (See additional piece at end of report).

Cllr Donie Daly congratulated Liam O’Laocha on his election as Gaelic and Culture Officer at the recent Cork County Board convention. He also paid tribute to Leigh Desmond on earning the Munster Intermediate Player of the Year 2009. “Best player in the county is honour enough but best player in Munster is a phenomenal achievement,” he said. The councillor also congratulated Youghal under-16 footballers on becoming County champions and the under-21 hurlers on taking the East Cork title.

Town Foreman’s Report:

Cllr Liam Burke observed that the Mall House gates are closed more often than open to the public and, secondly, there is a lot of green mossy growth on the footpath leading to Ardan na Mara on which it is extremely dangerous to walk.

Cllr Eoin Coyne asked that the council locate the owner of a camper van that is seemingly abandoned at the entrance to Cherryvale estate, causing an obstruction to motorists departing and arriving. The councillor also asked that Tesco be contacted with a view perhaps to pruning the foliage behind its amenity site. “There are a lot of people illegally dumping stuff there and that might expose them more,” he suggested. He also asked that remedial work be conducted at the front entrance to the CYMS where water is flooding the front hall and “actually warping the front door.”

Graves, fire alarms and potholes

Cllr Linehan Foley said a tree at the “new part” of the cemetery was once again attracting complaints by shedding its winter leaves onto graves. She said people are slipping on them and the graves can’t dry out because of it either. The councillor understood the council needed to get permission form “either Cluid or Respond” but wondered if the tree which, she elaborated, “is more bushes and branches,” could be cut down altogether.

The councillor asked whether supplying fire alarms to council houses was the responsibility of the council or its tenants? Acting Town Clerk Helen Walsh said every council was fitted with a smoke and any extra ones would be at the tenant’s own cost. Cllr Linehan Foley had in mind a constituent whose alarm was broken and she asked whose responsibility it was to replace it? The tenant was going to replace it herself but feared she might then not be covered by insurance in the case of a mishap. It was agreed that the council would investigate and replace the alarm if necessary.

Cllr Barbara Murray sought information o the situation on (council) housing repairs in general. She also asked that the council tend to some hedging on the Killeagh road that is protruding onto the footpath. Town foreman Ger Lupton said it would be the responsibility of the property owner and Cllr Murray said she didn’t know who was the owner but she would make known where the property can be found.

Cllr Michelle Hennessy pointed out that the road at the top of Windmill Hill needs cleaning and rubbish removed from the area. A pothole at the bottom of Cork Hill was causing cars to swerve and there was considerable dumping on Cork Hill on the left hand side near Raheen Road, she added.

Cllr Daly complained that a lady had recently fallen and broken her wrist on the Mall Lane. “It’s a death trap and something needs to be done about it,” he warned. He had received numerous complaints from mass goers about potholes on Chapel Lane and potholes were aplenty too between Mistletoe Grove and the N25, although he realised it was a Cork County Council issue. The councillor was also concerned that tree roots were undermining the wall dividing Indian Point and the graveyard.

Cllr Daly noted that work might be imminent on the treacherous blind spot caused by illegally parked vehicles at the entrance to Quarryvale and asked to arrange a date to visit it with the Paul Murray, the town engineer. Mr. Murray said he would visit as soon as it was arranged with County Council traffic management official Eileen Coleman. Cllr Linehan Foley, who had also raised the issue repeatedly over many meetings asked to be included in the expedition as footpath parking issues at Dr. Kennedy’s Place had also formed part of her campaign. “That hasn’t disappeared,” she reminded. She was welcomed to tag along.

Cork County Council Items:

Cllr Hennessy said parking on Cork Hill was now a serious issue, as people often parked too close to other cars. This led to drivers being unable to drive out in the early mornings to go to work and in turn having to disturb neighbours to move their vehicles. Alternatively, they parked in a manner that just about prevented other cars accessing a space at all. She suggested boxes be painted by way of bringing order to the situation. This was roundly deemed a good idea and the town engineer said he would investigate.

Cllr Hennessy inquired of an update on the disability space road markings. Town engineer Paul Murray said some had been painted around the town, such as opposite the Credit Union, while work was started near Roseville. He said he had a small crew who were working on the project between other commitments.

Cllr Michael Beecher said he was delighted a new surface was cleared and a footpath installed between Meadow Valley and Ballyclamsy but it appeared no proper stone was laid underneath it and he could see vehicle tracks already embedded in it. Mr Murray said he’d look at it. The councillor proceeded that, part of the Inch Road also needs repair. The engineer said he would contact the relevant personnel in relation to it.

Shanakeel

Claycastle, Mall Lane and Quarry Road

Cllr Murray asked that the Claycastle area be give a clean up before Christmas, especially in lieu of a Christmas swim. She mentioned four Corona bottles having been there for eight weeks! The councillor also reported that she had that evening been notified that sewerage at Aeon Developments, Greens Quay was spilling into an adjoining property. She also drew attention to ponding at Kilcoran Place and water descending the Atlantic Steps, which would be further hazardous in freezing conditions.

Cllr Linehan Foley repeated the concerns relating to the pothole at the bottom of Cork Hill and also the issue surrounding the Mall Lane, which, in her opinion “should have been left closed.” She said closing the Mall Lane did not contribute to the town’s commercial business, while the traffic was both “highly dangerous” and a disturbing to the lane’s residents. Cllr Murray interceded that the main problem was that a surface was laid that was only suitable for pedestrian traffic and needed replacement by a concrete surface. Cllr Linehan Foley disagreed, saying it should have remained pedestrianised as “a fortune of council money” had initially created a beautiful laneway but now “people have no quality of life up there.” She asked that the issue be raised again in the chamber at some stage.

Cllr Revins referred to more potholes, namely at Moll Goggin’s Corner and “at Sammy’s Butchers in the Strand!”

Cllr Coyne also despaired of the Cork Hill pothole, before pointing out that drivers exiting the T-junction from Copperally onto the Quarry Road were having great difficulty seeing traffic from their right. He believed it was the angle of vision that was the crux of the problem. The town engineer agreed to view it officially. The councillor then cited dissatisfaction with the ponding at Nagle House, to which he had also referred at November’s meeting. Mr. Murray said he had unsuccessfully attempted to resolve the problem with cold tar. The road had fractured and he would attempt to mend it with hot tar next month.

Flood plan?

Cllr Liam Burke said he was extremely concerned about possible tidal flooding and asked if Youghal had a flood emergency plan and, if so, what was it. The town engineer said a flood survey had been conducted some years ago but the only plan as such was the provision of sandbags and the installation of flood barrier on the docks area. “Short of acquiring funding to raise the quay walls, there is nothing mush else we can do,” he said.

In the even of an emergency, Mr. Murray continued, Cork County Council would be responsible for implementing a response. Cllrs Linehan Foley and Murray recalled that the last time -2004- when Youghal had serious flooding- it was left to the town councillors to direct traffic and oversee sand bags deployment. “It was frightening. There wasn’t even a guard around,” said Cllr Linehan Foley.

Town Manager Patricia Power said it was worth examining the situation further although the County Council had an emergency strategy for various events, which included co-ordination between the County Council, An Garda and the HSE.
“Flood defence and response are the two issues involved,” she observed, informing that major damage was caused during the recent Cork flooding by vehicles driving through the water and causing waves. Incredibly, people leaving their vehicles to remove ‘road flooded’ signs also contributed to the disaster, she added.

Cllr Burke repeated that given serious flooding is forecast to occur frequently, “a formal flood emergency plan should be drawn up” for Youghal. Cllr Linehan Foley added that even the provision of an emergency number for elderly people especially, to ring would provide reassurance for them.

Cllr Burke concluded his submissions on County Council matters with a repeat of unresolved issues, namely, the concealed entrance sign for Summerdale lawn and “the usual list of broken footpaths at Tallow Street, South Main Street and the junction of South Abbey and Strand Street.”

Mayor’s Business:

Mayor Sandra McLellan she had received a letter from Kathleen Keniry thankig the council for the recent civic reception celebrations held to honour her 50 years teaching Irish dancing. The mayor referred to a letter from the Chamber of Commerce requesting free parking on the main street over Christmas. It was deemed that the matter had already been discussed and that free parking would apply on Christmas Eve only. Mayor McLellan concluded by formerly adding retired town councillor Olly Casey’s autobiographical book, That’s Gas to the council library.

RAPID Report

Cllr Revins said there was no report, no co-ordinator until next March and no tenants liaison officer after Dec 21st. “I can’t see any RAPID meeting happening before March which is very disappointing,” he said, adding he would welcome “any meeting with the residents’ network meantime, to keep things going.”

Unresolved Motions Report:

Cllr Mary Linehan Foley referred to a motion that called on the council to widen and improve Kilcoran Road, including provision of a footpath. She said it had been submitted eight years ago and was still unfulfilled. The councillor didn’t have anything against other areas being resurfaced, but she would be seeking her colleagues’ support for a January motion about “about slapping on Compulsory Purchase Orders etc.” in relation to this long-running saga. “These potholes have been there for 20 years and its wasting money to be filling them for three showers of rain, while elderly people are falling over them,” she alluded.  Cllr Liam Burke supported Cllr Linehan Foley, adding that a very dangerous bend on the road added to the danger.

Local Authority 2010 Budget meetings for 2010:

It was decided to hold the meeting prior to January’s Town Council meeting on January 11th.

Revised Road Traffic and Car Park Bye Laws 2010:
This item resolved particularly around the traffic management plan pertaining to the DeValera Street car park. It was perceived that a lot of issues and “serious concerns” were contained within and therefore the matter would be best dealt with over a special meeting. This is scheduled for Monday January 18th , with the draft results being forwarded before a full council meeting thereafter.

Motion by Cllr Murray, seconded by Cllr Beecher: ‘That Youghal Town Council calls on the OPW to provide funding for the provision of flood protection barriers as a matter of urgency.’

Cllr Murray said she believed two reports had been commissioned in times past, one elaborate in its recommendations and the other simply proposing building walls with gaps and erecting moveable barriers, etc. She was unaware which had been sent to the OPW but suggested they be revisited and revised if necessary in lieu of a fresh application.

The councillor felt present strategy focused unwisely on reactive clean-up tactics whereas pro-active, preventative measures were far more advisable. She would accept the work being done, if need be, in stages, with more vulnerable areas addressed first.

Cllr Burke said the sea threat was very real and when it did transpire it would affect back street residents and mains street businesses alike. He recalled boats being rowed on the main street on Ash Wednesday 1962 and forecast it may well be repeated. Cllr Linehan Foley remembered a similar occurrence at Brown Street in 1989.

Cllr Hennessy said householders on the back street were “seriously concerned” to the point that they wished to send a delegation to the council to voice their fears and to seek reassurance. “Their children have left home now and most of these people are elderly and worried,” she stressed. “Salt water can destroy their homes and they can’t get insurance.” The councillor said there needed to be “hundreds of sandbags” ready for immediate deployment on foot of a flood warning.

As Cllr Murray’s motion was approved, Cllr Linehan Foley added that a similar motion from Cllr Revins had been submitted to the OPW some years ago, that received a positive reply. “They said we were on their list and maybe we can look up that reply again, she concluded.

At which point all retired for beverages and sandwiches to mark the Christmas, with the ham salad and white wine particularly complimentary towards each other, one found.

**

Major academic honours for Youghal’s Quirke sisters

The daughter of former poultry shop owners Vincent and Deirdre Quirke, Jane Quirke achieved 570 points in her Leaving Cert at Loreto Convent Youghal. She then attended UCC from where she graduated 2004 with First Class Honours in Law and French. Jane then undertook post-graduate studied in Dublin City University, from where she acquired a Professional Diploma in Accountancy. The 27 year-old joined the Auditing section of chartered accountants PricewaterhouseCoopers in 2006 where, completing further studies in Chartered Accountancy, she became a Certified Accountant in 2008.

Subsequently transferred to the company’s Taxation department, Jane took her
final exams with the Institute of Taxation this year, finishing joint first in Ireland.

Jane’s sister younger sister by four years, Anne Marie, also attended Youghal’s
Loreto school and acquired 590 points in her Leaving Cert. She subsequently
graduated from UCC in 2008 with an Upper Second Class Primary Degree in Civil
& Environmental Engineering. Earlier this year she completed successful studies
for a Master’s Degree in Transportation and sustainable Development in Paris..

Jane will take up work on January 4th next with a Paris-based French company as a
project engineer, which will see her working on international projects on low
energy buildings in South Africa, China and Thailand.

end

The final sitting of the current town council spanned approximately 45 minutes -brief by normal standards. While a distinct air of pre-occupation pertained, the members nonetheless adhered to the business at hand in the spirit of dutiful responsibility. By Christy Parker

Cllr Michael Beecher took some issue with an item in the Town Clerk’s Report on Minutes arising from the previous meeting. The report recorded that on May 1st Ross Daly, on behalf of the EPA, had visited both Youghal landfill and the adjacent waste treatment and sludge drying facility Eras Eco (formerly SVR). “The landfill had been given ‘a clean bill of health’ noted the report. (Curiously, there was no declaration on behalf of Eras Eco). The inspector even concluded that, “no odours were detected on the windfill side of the Slob Bank area which is just 100m from the working face of the landfill.” Cllr Beecher insisted that odours were detected on Sunday morning and through Monday of this week. “Certainly there’s something wrong at the weekends,” he alleged, to no response. Read more

Report from the february meeting of the Youghal Town Council -Report Christy Parker

Mayor Olly Casey congratulated Youghal Athletic Club’s Nikita Savage on her recent achievements. The PobailScoil na Trionoide student was the youngest medallist at the National Senior Indoor Championships in the Odyssey Arena Belfast over the previous weekend. The athlete took bronze in the pole vault, equalling her personal best of three minutes in an event that saw gold medallist Zoe Brown set a new national record. Cllr Sammy Revins congratulated author John Stack of Summerfield for his debut novel Ships of Rome.
Cork County Council Items:
Cllr Sandra McLellan asked that signs be erected at the entrance to St. Mary’s College gardens, outlawing the consumption of alcohol. She said young girls with buggies were amongst those drinking there. Read more