Dublin City Council April Questions

dublin | miscellaneous | news report Tuesday April 03, 2007 14:10 by Council Scribe

For information purposes, a full list of all questions asked by Dublin City Councillors to the April Council meeting and the answers received. It's very long, so comments would be appreciated or we won't bother publishing it in future.

QUESTIONS LODGED PURSUANT TO STANDING ORDER NO.16 FOR REPLY AT THE MONTHLY MEETING OF DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON MONDAY, 02nd APRIL, 2007.

Q1. COUNCILLOR ERIC BYRNE
Would the Manager confirm that it is now his intention to have his inspector carry out a detailed examination of my constituents maintenance requirements, (details supplied), and that all the necessary work will be carried out without further delay? And would he make a statement on the matter.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Maintenance Foreman for the area has inspected this dwelling and reports the following:
• All the windows in the house will be replaced with wooden single glazed units. The windows are on order and will take approximately six to eight weeks;
• The side entrance gate will be replaced, is currently on order;
• A new sink unit has been ordered and will be fitted within the next week to ten days;
• The front gate needs to be welded. This will be completed within the next week.

The above repairs have been agreed with this tenant.

Q2. COUNCILLOR ERIC BYRNE
Will the Manager please confirm that he will have all the outstanding maintenance work carried out for my constituent as a matter of great urgency, (details supplied), and will he make a statement on this request.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The cistern has been replaced in the bathroom of this dwelling. A new worktop has been ordered, and the sink, which is in reasonable condition, will be removed and re-fitted with the new worktop.

Q3. COUNCILLOR ERIC BYRNE
To ask the City Manager to agree to the request from the residents of Irwin Court, Kilmainham that their estate be "Taken In Charge". Will he outline for me the steps necessary for this to happen and will he make a statement on this request.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Taking in Charge of Irwin Court, Kilmainham, Dublin 8.
Plan No: 0866/72

I confirm that a request has been received from the householders and occupiers residing at Irwin Court to have the development which was completed under Planning Permission Register Reference 0866/72 to be taken in charge by Dublin City Council.

The request satisfies the requirements of Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, within the terms of Subsection (1) of Section 180.

Section 180 – (1) reads:

“Where a development for which permission is granted under section 34 or under Part IV of the Act of 1963 includes the construction of 2 or more houses and the provisions of new roads, open spaces, car parks, sewers, watermains or drains, and the development has been completed to the satisfaction of the planning authority in accordance with the permission and any conditions to which the permission is subject, the authority shall, where requested by the person carrying out the development, or, subject to subsection (3), by the majority of the qualified electors who are owners or occupiers of the houses involved, as soon as may be, initiate the procedures under section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.”

Dublin City Council has accordingly initiated procedures for the taking in charge of the estate, under Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993. The Planning Department has requested reports on the status of the development from the relevant Service Divisions, which are the Water, Drainage, Parks & Landscapes, Public Lighting and Road Maintenance Divisions. The Service Divisions are currently organising inspections in order to detail the required information. Their reports will indicate if the development is up to taking in charge standard and will outline any outstanding works, and related costs to the borne by Dublin City Council, if the development is deemed not to be up to standard.

Once the services at the estate are fully certified as being up to taking in charge standard, the final procedures for taking in charge will be initiated through the local Area Office. The following outlines these procedures (which may include the holding of a plebiscite to ascertain the wishes of a majority of the qualified electors):

1. A report is prepared for the Area Committee;

2. The Area Committee approves;

3. An advertisement is placed in a national newspaper advising of the intention to take the area in charge;

4. The relevant documents in relation to the development to be taken in charge go on public display for 4 weeks;

5. Submissions may be made to the City Council for up to 6 weeks after it has gone on public display;

6. At the end of the 6 weeks a report is prepared for City Council;

7. Following the City Council’s decision to take the development in charge, details must be entered in the statutory Schedule and Map. A Manager’s Order is prepared with attached map stating that the area defined on the map has been taken in charge and this is recorded in the statutory Schedule and Map, which is available for public inspection.

Q4. COUNCILLOR ERIC BYRNE
Will the Manager confirm that it is now his intention to have his Litter Wardens and The Environmental Liaison Officer tackle the dumping of rubbish and ensure the removal of wrecked cars from the laneway to the rear of my constituents home, (details supplied). And will he make a statement on the request.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Litter Warden advises that following the issuing of several fines on this property, the owners have cleaned away all waste from the property. The ELO inspected the property on 12th March and the property is now compliant with the Litter Pollution Act of 1997. There is a wrecked car situated in the rear garden of the property. However, as the vehicle is not visible from a public place it does not constitute an offence under the 1997 Act. As the vehicle is located on private property it could not be construed to be abandoned under the 1996 Waste Management Act.

The Litter Warden will continue to monitor the property.

Q5. COUNCILLOR BILL TORMEY
To ask the City Manager can the Traffic Advisory Group recommend “resident’s only” parking for residents around the vicinity of the school who are affected by parents dropping children off to school and parking outside their houses, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
In regard to “residents only parking” there is no basis in law whereby Dublin City Council can restrict on-street parking to residents on a public roadway.

Q6. COUNCILLOR BILL TORMEY
To ask the City Manager can the Traffic Advisory Group install bigger, more visible traffic lights at the pedestrian crossing between, (details supplied), as motorists often drive through red lights as if they can’t see them.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The issue of installing bigger lights on the pedestrian crossing at the, (details supplied), has been referred to the Intelligent Traffic Systems Section (ITS) for investigation and a report will be issued upon completion.

Q7. COUNCILLOR BILL TORMEY
There was cycle lane on, (details supplied). There were roadworks at this location recently and the cycle lane markings were not put back in place. Can the Manager say why?

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
(Details supplied), between Kilmore Road and Artane Roundabout, was resurfaced for the (details supplied) QBC Enhancements Project. The markings for cycle lanes were removed for the road to be overlayed.

The cycle lane outbound in, (details supplied), from Kilmore Road to Artane Roundabout, shall be reinstated in the next month. The inbound cycle lane will be reinstated from Artane Roundabout to end north of the Artane Cottages. The inbound cycle lane will not be marked in front of the Artane Cottages as it will be a shared bus and cycle lane. All this work is being implemented as part of the, (details supplied), QBC Enhancements Project.

Q8. COUNCILLOR BILL TORMEY
To ask the City Manager can the Traffic Advisory Group install speed ramps on this road, (details supplied), to slow down speeding cars.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A previous request was investigated in August 2006 and developed the following conclusions:
The results of a speed survey show that the 85th percentile speed for, (details supplied), is 36 km/hr, and the number of cars counted using the road in a one-hour period was 6. These results are well below the required criteria of 50 km/hr and 60 cars in one hour respectively. It is therefore not recommended to install ramps on, (details supplied), Dublin 13.

Q9. COUNCILLOR GERRY BREEN
The Council is in the process of deciding if a pocket of land behind this house, (details supplied), can be given to the residents, but no decision has been made. This has been going on for a very long time. Can the Manager say when a decision will be reached.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Chief Valuer has been instructed to enter into negotiations with the residents of nos. 29-51, (details supplied), in October 2006, with a view to disposing of the plot of ground to the rear of their premises to them. The interested residents will be granted leases for gardening purposes only with a prohibition on building on the plots, subject to the consent of the City Council being obtained. At a meeting on 28/11/06 between Development Department Staff, Councillor Killian Forde and one of the adjoining property owners it was decided that Cllr. Forde would write to all the residents to ascertain the level of interest in this proposed disposal. The meeting also felt that the disposal could be more easily facilitated if there was agreement to the proposal from all the residents. To date replies have been received from the residents of nos. 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 41 & 45, (no. 43 is a DCC property). The residents of nos. 29, 47, 49 and 51 were written to again on 27th. March and asked to reply by the 11th April 2007. The valuer assigned this case will contact all the interested parties including, (details supplied), in April to agree Terms and Conditions for the proposed disposal of these plots.

Q10. COUNCILLOR MARY FREEHILL
Would the Manager state who is the owner of the plot of land in front of Ontario Terrace, Rathmines and also the railings which borders on the footpath on Canal Road. Would the Manager also state if the Council have taken any action in requesting the owners to maintain this area, and if not why not.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Initial enquiries reveal that the land in question may be owned by Waterways Ireland although the City Council hold an historic leasehold interest in a small part of the site. The South East Area office will conduct further enquiries in relation to this piece of land and will revert to the Councillor in due course.

Q11. COUNCILLOR MARY FREEHILL
Would the Manager state what is the hold up in the CPO of the cottages on Canal Road and also state what action is being taken to expedite the matter.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
There are a number of cottages at Dunville Terrace, Grand Canal Road which are boarded up. They have been inspected by the Derelict Sites section and are not considered to be derelict. The Council has no plans to acquire these properties by compulsory purchase order. However, a reference of ownership will be requested to establish the owners of the properties.

Q12. COUNCILLOR MARY FREEHILL
Would the Manager give an update on the CPO procedure on the plot of land on Terenure Road North on the corner of Whitton Road.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
There is a confirmed and operative CPO on this site for the provision of senior citizen accommodation. However, the estimate of the cost to acquire the site now makes the building of the units prohibitive and accordingly the Council does not intend to proceed with the acquisition of the site under the CPO.

Q13. COUNCILLOR BRENDAN CARR
To ask the Manager if he is satisfied that the Glendhu, Glenariff and Glenbrooke Roads can facilitate the Fire Brigade and Ambulance Services in the event of a fire or emergency or future bus service.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Following an inspection of the above area by operational officers we are satisfied that the roads mentioned are adequate to be used by the Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service in the event of an emergency.

Q14. COUNCILLOR LARRY O’TOOLE
To ask the Manager to report on any plans to provide playground and youth facilities in Roseglen/Briarfield, Dublin 5.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Parks & Landscape Services Division has no specific plans for the placement of a formal children’s playground on public open space in the Roseglen/Briarfield area as staff and general resources are not available at present to consider the placement of the playground facilities requested. The Parks & Landscape Services Division targets resources available for playground facilities on the placement and maintenance of larger facilities in neighbourhood parks where there is a staff presence. This permits for daily inspection of surfaces and equipment and a quick response to any damage that may occur.

Q15. COUNCILLOR LARRY O’TOOLE
To ask the Manager to make provision for double yellow lies at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The request to examine the issue of providing double yellow lines in the Cul-de-Sac on, (details supplied), will be referred to the Traffic Advisory Group, TAG, for investigation and a report issued to the councillor upon completion

Q16. COUNCILLOR LARRY O’TOOLE
To ask the Manager to have a traffic study carried out at the following location, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Mini-roundabouts can be effective in improving urban intersections by slowing the traffic in all directions that approach the roundabout and minimising the potential for accidents. However, I will arrange for a Traffic Engineer to investigate the effectiveness of this roundabout on, (details supplied), and a report will be issued to the councillor upon completion.

Dublin City Council does not generally recommend Children at Play signs as they have been shown to be ineffective in reducing speeds. However, if residents wish it and are willing to pay the cost involved, the Council will consider providing ‘Caution Children’ signs. If residents wish to proceed they should make arrangements with the Traffic Administration Section, tel. 2222251.

Q17. COUNCILLOR DERMOT LACEY
To ask the Manager if he can quantify the loss of income to Dublin City Council arising from the decision to transfer responsibility for taxi licences away from the Council since the decision came into affect. To further ask the Manager if Dublin City Council receives any income from the taxi Industry or Regulator as a contribution to the costs incurred by Dublin City Council in the provision of taxi related services – including the loss of income in parking areas that are allocated at certain times as Taxi ranks.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The total income for taxi licences in the last full year of operation by Dublin City Council was €3,099,567 net of contributions to other Local Authorities. With demand for new licences reaching saturation the income would be expected to fall to approximately €1000,000. The cost of providing the service was approximately €350,000. Dublin City Council receives approximately €90,000 income from taxi shelters.
Taxi ranks in the City Centre area are provided as part of the overall transportation system. Approximately 270 rank spaces are located in high or medium demand parking areas. If converted to pay and display parking the annual yield would be of the order of €1.6 million.

Q18. COUNCILLOR DERMOT LACEY
In view of the pending General Election to ask the Manager if it is intended to provide the Poster Removal Service as operates at the time of the last Local Elections and if so what will be the terms of the service.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
An arrangement was put in place at the time of the last local elections under which, the City Council arranged to provide a service to candidates for the removal and recycling of election posters, in conjunction with an agreed protocol. Difficulties arose in the provision of this service and with the operation of the protocol and the City Council was subject to criticism in respect of the nature of the service provided. In the circumstances it is considered that the City Council should not attempt to provide a similar service on this occasion.

Q19. COUNCILLOR KEVIN HUMPHREYS
To ask the Manager for the graffiti to be removed from the following locations, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Arrangements have been made to repaint, (details supplied 1). The owners/occupiers of the premises, (details supplied 2 & 3), have been requested to complete waiver forms indemnifying to the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform. The graffiti will be removed from these premises on receipt of the waivers.

Q20. COUNCILLOR CHRISTY BURKE
To ask the City Manager what steps are being taken to install CCTV cameras
along the boardwalk and if steps are being taken to appoint homeless agency personal and HSE personal in order to direct people who may frequent the boardwalk to the relevant agencies

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Poles are already in position along Burgh Quay and the final engineering works required to activate a CCTV System will be completed by the end of the month, provided there are no unforeseen obstacles to be overcome.

The results of the RAPID Needs Assessment conducted in respect of the Public Domain area and recommendations arising there from are currently being examined with a view to identifying steps that will lead to the implementation of appropriate changes and improvements.

Arising from an issue raised by the Central Area’s Homeless Forum, the Homeless Agency in association with Merchants Quay Ireland undertook an assessment project to gauge the needs of individuals congregating on and around the Boardwalk and in other open spaces in the city centre.

A draft report on this project is currently being considered by a Steering Group comprised of representatives of an Garda Siochana, DCC local area office, DCC Homeless Services, Homeless Agency, street outreach teams, and service providers including providers of drug and alcohol addiction services. This report will be signed off shortly by the Steering Group and a timetable for implementation of its recommendations will be put in place.

One of the recommendations in the draft report is to endorse DCC’s proposal for Street Community Wardens who would provide information and advice on day services and activities for people who are out-of-doors in the City Centre. The City Council will be working to ensure that this draft recommendation is given priority in the implementation timetable.

Q21. COUNCILLOR CHRISTY BURKE
To ask the City Manager if DCC will erect portaloo cabins around the vicinities of Croke Park on match days and concert days as there have been a large number of complaints from local residents in relation to urination on their properties gardens doorways.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Portaloos are now being provided for major event days at Croke Park at the following locations:

1. Summerhill Parade on the bridge at the entrance to Charleville Mall
2. Ballybough Road at the junction with Clonliffe Road beside the advertising hoarding
3. St Anne’s Road (near junction with Drumcondra Road Lower)
4. North Circular Road at Dorset Street on the road outside the side entrance to “The Big Tree”
5. North Circular Rd at Fitzgibbon St beside red brick wall around Fitzgibbon Court
6. Mountjoy Square South on footpath at the corner opposite North Great Charles Street
7. Clonliffe Road (outside Mater Dei Institute)

Feedback so far has been very positive.

Q22. COUNCILLOR CHRISTY BURKE
To ask the City Manager if he would clean out the shores on, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Drainage Section have reported that the gullies on, (details supplied), were checked on 21st March, 2007. 8 out of 10 gullies were cleaned.

Q23. COUNCILLOR LARRY O’TOOLE
To ask the Manager to consider the possibility of providing all weather playing pitch facilities at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The request for the placement of an all weather playing pitch on open space in, (details supplied), has been examined and none of the open space in this estate is considered appropriate for such use. The Parks and Landscape Services Division has medium term proposals for the inclusion of all weather facilities in the redevelopment proposals of Fr. Collins Park which is the closest neighbourhood park to this estate.

Q24. COUNCILLOR KEVIN HUMPHREYS
To ask the Manager to have speed ramps installed in the vicinity of Bremen Avenue/Bremen Road in order to slow down traffic.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Speed checks will be carried out on Bremen Avenue / Bremen Road to determine whether calming measures are appropriate.

Q25. COUNCILLOR DERMOT LACEY
To ask the Manager if he will supply the following information in relation to Waste Charges for the year ending December 31st 2006:
1) How many households are there in total in the Dublin City area.
2) How many have been granted a waiver for the year,
3) How many have paid the charge in full,
4) How many have partially paid,
5) How many who are not eligible to a waiver have not paid at all,
6) How much money is outstanding to the Council in unpaid charges
And finally to ask the Manager if he will comment on any other aspect of this that he believes to be relevant.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The City Council has traditionally provided a waste collection service to approximately 165,500 households. Of these, approximately 46,500 are waiver applicants. There are approximately 25,000 customers who avail of a bag collection service and these are required to purchase pre-paid tags. The vast majority of these customers are complying with this requirement. A further 20,000 customers live in apartment/flat complexes and their waste collection service also requires the purchase of pre-paid tags. This is the responsibility of the management companies and the vast majority complies with the requirement. It is City Council policy not to collect untagged waste in the areas where that requirement applies.

Of the remaining 74,000 customers, 22,700 have paid their bills in full and 43,000 have paid in part. Of those who have paid in part, many have made individual arrangement with the City Council to pay in installments that suit their individual household budget. There are 8,300 customers who have failed to pay any part of the charge or avail of a waiver. It is City Council policy not to collect from those who refuse to pay the charge. There is approximately €5.7m outstanding in respect of 2006 but this figure will reduce as the installment payments referred to above are received.

Q26. COUNCILLOR KILLIAN FORDE
Can the Manager provide a breakdown in numerical and percentage terms the female employees in the various grades and pay scales employed by Dublin City Council.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Attached is a percentage breakdown by gender of grades in Dublin City Council. They have been grouped in analogous grades for convenience as there are a significant number of grades within the organisation.

I have also attached a list of pay scales applicable to grades within the organisation.

Q27. COUNCILLOR KILLIAN FORDE
Can the Manager indicate whether the TAG has assessed my request for yellow lines at St. Donagh’s Road and Carndonagh Road. Both of these roads have serious issue with access due to commuter parking at the Howth Junction and Donaghmede DART station.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Traffic Advisory Group is currently investigating these roads and a report will be issued to the Councillor upon completion.

Q28. COUNCILLOR KILLIAN FORDE
Can the Manager clarify why a previously agreed extra speed cushion on Elmfield Avenue in Clare Hall has never materialised.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
An additional ramp for Elmfield Avenue is included in the 2007 Traffic Works Programme in order to reduce speeding along this stretch of road.

Q29. COUNCILLOR KILLIAN FORDE
Can the Manager state the progress with the provision of a wall and railing on, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Following consultations with the relevant residents regarding the wall and railings at, (details supplied), 3 tenders had been received from 3 companies. All quotes were in excess of €100,000, therefore the tenders must be publicly advertised.

The details have been forwarded to our Procurement Section so they can make the necessary arrangements. A Contractor is expected to be nominated within the next 3 months.

Q30. COUNCILLOR SEAN KENNY
To ask the Manager to provide video copies of the Al Gore film “An Inconvenient Truth” for lending in the Dublin Public Libraries.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Nineteen copies of ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ by Al Gore, in print format, are currently in stock and available for loan in the City Library branch network. An additional thirteen copies on DVD are currently on order and will be added to stock when supplied.

Q31. COUNCILLOR SEAN KENNY
To ask the Manager to comment on the level of dissatisfaction expressed by many Dublin citizens, as well as the financial loss involved, who engaged David Grant & Associates to unsuccessfully submit planning applications on their behalf.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The City Council is not in a position to comment in this regard. Any issue in relation to financial loss would be a civil issue.

Q32. COUNCILLOR CHRISTY BURKE
To ask the City Manager if he would call the Garda Commissioner to introduce more Garda resources in the Montpelier Arbour hill Dublin 7, given the increase in prostitution.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Chief Superintendent in the appropriate Garda Division has been requested to respond. His reply will be forwarded to the Councillor when received.

Q33. COUNCILLOR ROBERT SARGENT
To ask the City Manager when will the path at, (details supplied), be repaired as it is a major hazard since the root of the tree forced the path up.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Parks and Landscape Services Division will arrange for repairs to be undertaken to the footpath outside, (details supplied), over the coming weeks.

Q34. COUNCILLOR ROBERT SARGENT
To ask the City Manager what areas in, (details supplied), have been chosen for the erection of CCTV schemes with a Dublin City Council input, has there been local consultation regarding the scheme and when are they to be erected and the cost in each case.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Ballyfermot RAPID area has secured approval for installation of a CCTV under the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform CCTV Scheme. There are no other locations in South Central chosen for participation in this scheme.

CCTV is provided in local authority housing complexes throughout the area and at key community facilities, generally installed following consultation with local communities.

The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has approved of the provision of a Garda C.C.T.V. system for Ballyfermot. The project involves the installation of 19 cameras at various locations throughout the area at a cost of €600,000 approximately. Locations for the cameras were chosen in consultation with the City Council through the Ballyfermot Area Office.

A consultation process is currently being undertaken by the Gardai in relation
to the proposed scheme. The site plan showing the location of the cameras together with drawings and a description of the proposed work are available for inspection at Ballyfermot Garda Station, Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park and Dublin City Council, Planning Department. Submissions and/or observations with respect to the proposed C.C.T.V. system may be made in writing to the Commissioner, An Garda Siochana, Garda Headquarters Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, up to 17th April, 2007.

I am informed by An Garda Siochana that it is hoped to have the new C.C.T.V. in Ballyfermot operational by the end of June.

Q35. COUNCILLOR ROBERT SARGENT
To ask the City Manager when will the railings promised to my constituent, (details supplied), be erected on her low front wall, to prevent dumping in her garden and the additional cost incurred by the constituent in having to get rubbish removed, to stop horses trespassing in her garden and youths congregating on this corner wall.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The tenants home, (details supplied), is one of the houses identified under the Safe Spaces regeneration project. Construction of the wall will commence in the next coming month.

Q36. COUNCILLOR ROBERT SARGENT
To ask the City Manager to have a yellow box installed at the junction of St. Agnes Road and St. Agnes Park, Crumlin.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The matter concerned has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group. The Councillor will be informed of the recommendations of the group when these are available.

Q37. COUNCILLOR PADDY BOURKE
To ask the City Manager to deal with the following, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Parks & Landscape Services Division placed a fence on the boundary of the property of, (details supplied 1), and the public open space and, (details supplied 2), heights in association and in agreement with the owner of the property. Contact will be made with the resident at this location to identify the specific problem and to agree a solution.

Q38. COUNCILLOR PADDY BOURKE
To ask the City Manager to deal with the following, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Parks & Landscape Services Division is proceeding with the project at,
(details supplied), open space and specific proposals are being prepared at this time which on completion will be brought to the North Central Area Committee. In general the proposal is to provide an astroturf all weather floodlit facility to provide for GAA and Association Football use and general training use and would include a pavilion to provide management control and a changing facility.

 Other changing facilities proposed for construction/improvement are: St. Anne’s Park, associated with the proposed modification of the existing tennis court area.
 Modification of the existing pavilion at St. Anne’s Park, Mount Prospect Avenue in association with Clontarf G.A.A. Club.
 Fairview Park as indicated at the March 2007 meeting of the North Central Area Committee Meeting
 Maypark changing facility will be available on completion of the nearby Senior Citizens Housing project.
 Darndale Park subject to a specific site and resources being fully identified.
 Belcamp Park: modification of existing pavilion associated with Sports Capital Grant and Dean Swift Sports Club.

The Central and North Central Area Committees rejected the proposals to rezone and sell at full market value the lands in question which are located between the Tolka Estuary and Alfie Byrne Road adjoining East point. The sale is therefore not proceeding and no monies are therefore accruing.

The following parks in North Central will be having significant works carried out over the next few years Fr. Collins Park, Fairview Park, St. Anne’s Park including All Weather Floodlit facilities at Alfie Byrne Road adjoining old Traffic School, and New Pavillions at Fairview and Darndale Park.

Q39. COUNCILLOR PADDY BOURKE
To ask the City Manager to deal with the following, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
At present there is 1 no. Association Football playing pitch at, (details supplied). Application should be made to Sports Section for the consideration of the placement of any lettings on this pitch. It is understood that there is at present a letting on the existing pitch. That section will also provide advise regarding application for lettings to the club. Those with lettings on the pitch will be given agreed access to the pavilion facility available on completion of the current construction project. The placement of an all weather multi-use sports area is being considered at present and various designs and procurement issues are being assessed and the North Central Area Committee will be advised of the outcome of these assessments in due course.

Q40. COUNCILLOR SEAN KENNY
To ask the Manager to arrange for reply to be given to letter sent to Dublin City Council for my constituent in relation to matter referred to in, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
On the 11th October copy correspondence from the Plaintiff’s solicitor dated 26th July and 24th August 2006 addressed to Adrian Corrigan was forwarded to the Central Claims Unit for a response.

A further letter from the Claimant’s Solicitor dated 20th October 2006 received here on 23rd October 2006 was replied to by Frank Brady, Claims Handler, on 26th October, asking for a locus inspection, photographs of the accident locus and details of the claimant’s medical advisers. This is standard procedure when a new claim issues against the City Council.

To date the Central Claims Unit have received no response to their initiating letter of 26th October 2006.

Q41. COUNCILLOR CRÍONA NÍ DHÁLAIGH
To ask the City Manager to call on the Minister for Social and Family Affairs
requesting that he consider amending the criteria for qualifying for RAS in order that homeless people can avail of the scheme. At present you have to be in recent of rent allowance for more that 18 months which disqualifies homeless people.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) already has provision within it, in order that homeless persons can avail of the scheme and therefore it will not be necessary to request a change from the Minister.

The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government have issued both guidance and circulars (Circular N2/07) to local authorities to state the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) can be used by local authorities to accommodate homeless persons who are on rent supplement but have a long-term housing need. The new Homeless Agency Action Plan,
‘A key to the door’, reflects this also, one of the key actions is to “maximize housing provision for people and households through the Rental Accommodation Scheme.”

Q42. COUNCILLOR CRÍONA NÍ DHÁLAIGH
To ask the City Manager to consider changing the housing policy so as
applicants who find themselves homeless do not lose their time on record points. At present if an applicant who is on the housing list finds themselves homeless and has to register with the homeless section their application is only assessed as off on from the date of them becoming homeless and the time on record points they accrued while on the housing list are lost as has happened to, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
I can confirm that the applicant, (details supplied), registered as homeless with Dublin City Council in December 2006. The applicant, (details supplied), was previously on the Housing List with 74 points for his area of preference, Area L (Clanbrassil, Charlemount, Dolphin’s Barn, James Street, Kilmainham, Rialto, Coombe/Maryland, York Street, Ushers Quay). I wish to advise that these points are low for this area of preference, it is therefore unlikely that the applicant would have been reached with an offer of accommodation in the near future.

All Dublin City Council lettings are made in accordance with the Scheme of Letting Priorities. The principle of the scheme is to provide a transparent system of Housing Allocation, based on the principle of giving priority to households in most acute and urgent housing need. In accordance with the Scheme of Letting Priorities applicants that are accepted onto the Homeless List are automatically awarded a ‘Homeless Priority’ without reference to any points. At present Dublin City Council are working to ensure that thirty per cent of allocations are made to homeless applicants. When allocations are made to homeless applicants in addition to length of time on the waiting list a number of other factors are also taken into consideration such as, suitability for the vacancy, proximity of the vacancy to relevant support services and ability to manage the tenancy.

Q43. COUNCILLOR CRÍONA NÍ DHÁLAIGH
To ask the City Manager who owns the land at, (details supplied 1), and if it does belong to Dublin City Council could consideration be given to allowing the tenants on, (details supplied 2), to take ownership of this piece of land in order to extend their back gardens. This was offered to the residents of, (details supplied 3), who back onto this land but they refused and could the Manager please ensure that, (details supplied 1), be cleaned up immediately as it is filthy.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The land known as, (details supplied 1), is in the ownership of Dublin City Council. Dublin City Council is not prepared to dispose of this laneway as it is the only means of access to a large surface water culvert running parallel to the laneway.

In relation to dumping of rubbish on this portion of the laneway at, (details supplied 1), I wish to advise that the laneway was cleaned in 2005 and required the engagement of contractors with a mechanical digger and numerous lorry loads of rubbish were removed at a considerable cost to Dublin City Council. At the time it was clearly explained to all residents whose property adjoins the laneway that the clean up was a once off and that future cleaning of the laneway would be their own responsibility. Given that the laneway is not accessible to anybody but the adjoining residents, I consider that it is now a matter for the residents themselves to arrange the removal of their rubbish.

Q44. COUNCILLOR CRÍONA NÍ DHÁLAIGH
To ask the City Manager to investigate the serious rat infestation that exists at, (details supplied), and to report to this Councillor on what is being done to alleviate this problem for the resident who has to regularly call pest control out to tackle the problem and to remove dead rats from her garden. There are fifteen rat holes in her garden. She has 3 shores in her garden. Could the Manager ensure that the pipes going into the shore on the road are not broken as the resident thinks this is the reason for the problem.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Area Maintenance Officer has called to this dwelling. Both the manholes and the drainage pipes have been inspected but no defects were identified. A further report has been lodged with the Health Service Executive, which has responsibility for rat control, to assist this tenant with the problem she is currently experiencing.

Q45. COUNCILLOR TONY SMITHERS
To ask the City Manager to immediately organise a meeting with, (details supplied), and local residents representatives regarding the ongoing breeching of planning conditions at, (details supplied), and other urgent matters as outlined in the attached letter.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
There is an existing agreed structure in place for meetings to take place between the developer, local residents representatives and Dublin City Council’s Fatima Project Office. Meetings take place regularly and concerns or issues, such as alleged breeches of planning conditions or items similar to those included in the attached letter are raised. The Construction Committee is a sub-group of the Fatima Regeneration Board and has been open to all Residents Representatives from the surrounding areas to join this structure. Residents Representatives of this particular area will be informed of and invited to attend the next meeting

Q46. COUNCILLOR TONY SMITHERS
To ask the City Manager to arrange a meeting with the residents of, (details supplied), to discuss the designing or reinstating of their gardens and the repair of the railings at the front of their homes such as the design of those at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A meeting will be arranged to investigate the matter.

Q47. COUNCILLOR TONY SMITHERS
To ask the City Manager why an application for an extension on overcrowding grounds was refused to, (details supplied). This is a tiny one-bedroom cottage with very little living space at all. The family have 1 bedroom between them, a kitchen/dining/living room all in one room. There is room at the back to build a kitchen extension but when Dublin City Council called out they said they couldn’t build there, as there was a shore, surely the shore could have been moved? Could a report be sent to this Councillor on this matter and could a copy of her statement of housing points be forwarded to the Councillor.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
There is no record of any application from this tenant on grounds of overcrowding. All applications are assessed and considered eligible if there is evidence of bedroom shortage in relation to the family size residing in the dwelling. Applications are also subject to Estate Management clearance and a clear rent account. In addition it must be deemed feasible to construct the extra bedroom by our Housing Architect. Extensions are additional bedrooms to accommodate the family based on the assessment. I have forwarded an application to this tenant and, when returned, it will be assessed in accordance with the above criteria.

A copy of the tenants’ housing points have been forwarded to the Councillor.

Q48. COUNCILLOR TONY SMITHERS
To ask the City Manager to ensure that the footpaths at, (details supplied), are repaired as they are in a dreadful state of disrepair.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Drainage Division are carrying out works on, (details supplied), at present. When these works are completed, the necessary repairs to the footpath at, (details supplied), will be carried out.

Q49. COUNCILLOR MICK RAFFERTY
To ask the City Manager why no contact was made with the Kinvara Area Resident’s Association regarding the provision of enhancement features at the 2 entrances to the Kinvara Estate, Navan Rd. Dublin 7 since this was promised (item 2613, Central Area Committee) on the 9th May 2006 and what action will now be taken.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Following previous representations the areas in question at Kinvara Estate were examined.

The area on Kinvara Avenue has been examined in the first instance in relation to Traffic Management/Parking Issues and provision has been made in the 2007 Works Programme to deliver some indented parking at this location to address the problems identified in representations. This general area can be reexamined again when the work is completed and the Residents Association and other parties at this location will be contacted by the Cabra Area Office for comments/input regarding further environmental improvements.

The second entrance at Ashtown Grove is in a reasonable condition. The City Council is examining the sites at the shops, which are the subject of CPO proceedings and will bring forward proposals for these sites in the near future.

As part of the local consultation process related to the above the entrance from the main Navan Road to Ashtown Grove can be examined again in the context of some minor environmental works where appropriate.

Q50. COUNCILLOR MICK RAFFERTY
To ask the City Manager if the remaining tenants in Lourdes House, Dublin 1 will be temporarily rehoused in rented private apartments in view of the deteriorating living conditions there and the hazardous construction work necessitated by the redevelopment.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A delay arose in the construction of the new units as a result of the need to divert a mains gas pipeline, which traverses the site which work was the responsibility of Bord Gais. Diversion works were completed during week ending 24th March 2007 and works will recommence on site on Monday 2nd April.

It is intended to convene a further meeting with residents in the coming weeks to discuss a number of options in relation to their living accommodation.

Q51. COUNCILLOR MICK RAFFERTY
To ask the City Manager the current state of play in the negotiations by D.C.C. for the acquisition of the railed off plots at De Courcey Square, Dublin 9 and the adjoining laneway.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Negotiations are continuing with the owner of the area at De Courcey Square but no agreement has yet been reached.

Q52. COUNCILLOR MICK RAFFERTY
To ask the City Manager if the drainage across the footpath outside 22 Manor Street, Dublin 7 will be realigned to allow rainwater to flow to the nearest shore.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Road Maintenance will carry out all necessary works to eliminate this problem. As this work is not urgent I envisage that these works will not be completed for several weeks.

Q53. COUNCILLOR SEAN PAUL MAHON
Can the City Manager arrange to have the metal covers on a road at, (details supplied), replaced or fixed to stop the noise they generate.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
These will be repaired by the Roads Maintenance Division in the next 4-6 weeks.

Q54. COUNCILLOR SEAN PAUL MAHON
Can the City Manager supply an up to date report on the provision of seating at St. Anne's Park, Clontarf and a timeline for the completion of these works.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The placement of new seating at the Main Avenue, St Anne’s Park, was included in a proposed works programme associated with the management plan for St. Anne’s Park, discussed at the February and March meetings of the North Central Area Committee. The detail of the design of seat to be installed has yet to be decided and the installation is generally planned to take place in association with path surfacing works. It is anticipated that these works will be carried out in mid to late summer 2007.

Q55. COUNCILLOR NICKY KEHOE
To ask the City Manager for an update on the following issues:
(a) street cleaning at, (details supplied),
(b) public lighting upgrade on, (details supplied),
(c) update information on car park space at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
(a) Waste Management Services have, (details supplied a), cleaned every Wednesday after the refuse collection has taken place there. We will certainly monitor the future cleanliness of that to ensure that this area is kept as clean as possible.

(b)The lighting on, (details supplied b 2), Road has been investigated and at present is considered to be at an acceptable standard. It is due to undergo lamp changing and lantern cleaning in 2007 and a request will be sent to Parks Department to prune the trees which appear to be impacting some of the lights. We have no plans at present to carry out any further improvements to the lighting here.

(Details supplied b 1), Road was included as part of the 2006 improvement programme. This upgrade consisted of erecting 2 additional lights in the laneway to the rear of Houses 26-40. The public lighting here is considered to be at an acceptable standard, and we have no plans at present to carry out any further improvements. In the interim the lighting is due to undergo lamp changing and lantern cleaning in 2007 and a request will also be sent to Parks Department to prune the trees.

c) The site is the subject of a CPO process and will be vested in the City Council in July 2007. The Council is examining proposals for development at this location. When the process is advanced the Councils draft proposals will be discussed with the local residents associations and the members.

Q56. COUNCILLOR NICKY KEHOE
To ask the City Manager that a small type of playground be installed at, (details supplied), following positive approaches from residents from, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
This Division is currently examining the proposal with a view to locating a number of stand alone junior play items between the Connaught Street end of the park and the existing multi purpose play area. This will obviously be subject to agreement from local residents.

Q57. COUNCILLOR NICKY KEHOE
To ask the City Manager to investigate the possibility of pruning the tree back at the lamp standard at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
This work has been listed for inclusion in the current tree pruning schedule of works.

Q58. COUNCILLOR NICKY KEHOE
To ask the City Manager to give a timetable for the removal of the gravel stones at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Assistant Area Manager will arrange to have this matter finalised shortly and the Area Councillors will be advised of the timetable for completion of any remedial works proposed.

Q59. COUNCILLOR EMER COSTELLO
To ask the Manager to ensure that the following areas are included in the Phibsborough Local Area Plan: Upper Grangegorman Road, Orchard Terrace, Marne Villas, Rathdown Road, Charleville Road, Cherrymount Park, Rosemount Road, North Circular Road – Even Nos. (232 to 300) and Odd Nos. (245 to 309), and to provide a complete map of the area covered by the plan.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The focus of the Local Area Plan will be centred on Phibsborough /
Mountjoy and on how this core area will serve the communities over a wide residential catchment area. The pre-draft consultation period now underway provides an opportunity for the local communities to make submissions, and will help in defining the extent of the area where residents identify with Phibsborough as their local centre.

In response to councillors requests, the boundaries for the Phibsborough / Mountjoy Local Area Plan were already adjusted to include the Smurfit Printing works and intermediate lands in the Glasnevin area. Rather than making further adjustments on a piecemeal basis it is considered appropriate to wait until the pre-draft submissions are received and then to consider the inclusion of the residential areas noted in the Question and to firm up on the map boundaries at that time

Q60. COUNCILLOR SEAN PAUL MAHON
Can the City Manager give an up to date report on any plans for Fairview Park, with particular regard to children's play facilities.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
There are currently two small playgrounds in Fairview Park which were put in place temporarily as the site of the Dublin Port Tunnel Project in Fairview Park included the location of the original playground. It is proposed that the placement of a new playground will be included in the improvement of Fairview Park following completion of the Port Tunnel works in the park. A brief is being prepared with respect to the procurement of design and implementation of Fairview Park and it is anticipated that these improvement works will commence in 2007. In the meantime the temporary playground will be retained and basic landscaping will be carried out on the area of the park occupied by the Port Tunnel Project. It is anticipated that this area will be returned to the care of Parks & Landscape Services Division in mid April 2007.

Q61. COUNCILLOR LIAM KELLY
Will the Manager arrange to expedite the completion of the purchase of the fee simple at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The application to purchase the Fee Simple interest in this dwelling is being processed.

Approval for the disposal of the Fee Simple will be sought at the May meeting of the City Council. Assuming approval is obtained, the applicant should contact our Rents Section in the middle of May and an appointment will be made for a speedy closure of the sale.

Q62. COUNCILLOR LIAM KELLY
Will the Manager arrange to have the raised plateau constructed at the junction of Tolka Estate Road and Griffith Avenue in view of the high number of accidents at this location.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Griffith Avenue/Tolka Estate Road junction was examined in October 2006 and it was recommended that we install a junction plateau in red imprinted asphalt with bollards at each arm in order to highlight the junction and provide a protective barrier for pedestrians

This plateau is on the 2007 North West Traffic Works Programme and as this junction has been identified as being prone to accidents, the works will be prioritised.

Q63. COUNCILLOR LIAM KELLY
Will the Manager liaise with the ESB to ensure that the gateway to the transformer site at, (details supplied), is properly secured as youths can readily enter the residents garden at the present time.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The North West Area Office has written to the E.S.B regarding this matter. The Councillor will be informed when a reply is received.

Q64. COUNCILLOR LIAM KELLY
Has the Manager yet appointed a project team for the Centre of Excellence for Older People in Finglas, when he proposes to submit the plans for public consultation and when is it expected to seek tenders for the project.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The brief for this development has been completed. New Government Guidelines in regard to the procurement of consultants were introduced on February 19th 2007 which require careful drafting of the clients service requirement. This is a totally new process and will take two weeks to complete before the issuing of the documents to the consultants.
We would hope to be in a position to appoint a consultant in late April 2007.
Until the consultant is appointed we cannot give a definitive programme for the contract tendering however an estimate would be February 2008.

Q65. COUNCILLOR CHRIS ANDREWS
Will the City Manager have the big tree removed at rear of, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The District Parks Officer for the area has advised that this question refers to a small Sorbus tree, which in his opinion does not require removal.

Q66. COUNCILLOR CHRIS ANDREWS
Will the City Manager have new windows installed to the rear of, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Area Maintenance Officer has called to this dwelling to inspect the window but was unable to gain access. Contact details have been left for the tenant, and further calls will be made to establish what works are required.

Q67. COUNCILLOR CHRIS ANDREWS
Will the City Manager arrange for the trees in the garden in front of, (details supplied), be pruned as they are blocking out the light in these flats and the trees on the road close by were pruned not too long ago.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The District Parks Officer for the area has advised that the open space at, (details supplied), has two large cherry trees, which are not in need of pruning at this time.

Q68. COUNCILLOR CHRIS ANDREWS
Will the City Manager install a pedestrian sequence from Harold’s Cross Road to Clanbrassil Street, at the request of, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A review of the operation of the traffic lights at the junction of Harold’s Cross/Clanbrassil Street has been carried out. The capacity of this junction does not facilitate the implementation of a pedestrian phase. Currently, there are pedestrian bays and an island located on the Parnell Road side of the junction to allow pedestrians to cross from Harold’s Cross towards Clanbrassil Street.

It is anticipated that further changes to the junction will be made in the near future.

Q69. COUNCILLOR BRIAN GILLEN
To ask the Manager could the Traffic Advisory Group install bigger, more visible traffic lights at the pedestrian crossing between, (details supplied), as motorists often drive through red lights as if they can’t see them.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The issue of installing bigger lights on the pedestrian crossing at, (details supplied), has been referred to the Intelligent Traffic Systems Section (ITS) for investigation and a report will be issued upon completion.

Q70. COUNCILLOR BRIAN GILLEN
There was a cycle lane on, (details supplied). There were roadworks at this location recently and the cycle lane markings were not put back in place. Can the Manager say why?

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
(Details supplied), between Kilmore Road and Artane Roundabout, was resurfaced for the, (details supplied), QBC Enhancements Project. The markings for cycle lanes were removed for the road to be overlayed.

The cycle lane outbound in, (details supplied), from Kilmore Road to Artane Roundabout, shall be reinstated in the next month. The inbound cycle lane will be reinstated from Artane Roundabout to end north of the Artane Cottages. The inbound cycle lane will not be marked in front of the Artane Cottages as it will be a shared bus and cycle lane. All this work is being implemented as part of the, (details supplied), QBC Enhancements Project.

Q71. COUNCILLOR BRIAN GILLEN
To ask the Manager could the Traffic Advisory Group install speed ramps on this road to slow down speeding cars.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A previous request was investigated in August 2006 and developed the following conclusions:
The results of a speed survey show that the 85th percentile speed for, (details supplied), is 36 km/hr, and the number of cars counted using the road in a one-hour period was 6. These results are well below the required criteria of 50 Km/hr and 60 cars in one hour respectively. It is therefore not recommended to install ramps on, (details supplied), Dublin 13.

Q72. COUNCILLOR BRIAN GILLEN
The Council is in the process of deciding if a pocket of land behind this house, (details supplied), can be given to the residents, but no decision has been made. This has been going on for a very long time. Can the Manager say when a decision will be reached.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Chief Valuer has been instructed to enter into negotiations with the residents of nos. 29-51, (details supplied), in October 2006, with a view to disposing of the plot of ground to the rear of their premises to them. The interested residents will be granted leases for gardening purposes only with a prohibition on building on the plots, subject to the consent of the City Council being obtained. At a meeting on 28/11/06 between Development Department Staff, Councillor Killian Forde and one of the adjoining property owners it was decided that Cllr. Forde would write to all the residents to ascertain the level of interest in this proposed disposal. The meeting also felt that the disposal could be more easily facilitated if there was agreement to the proposal from all the residents. To date replies have been received from the residents of nos. 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 41 & 45, (no. 43 is a DCC property). The residents of nos. 29, 47, 49 and 51 were written to again on 27th. March and asked to reply by the 11th April 2007. The valuer assigned this case will contact all the interested parties including, (details supplied), in April to agree Terms and Conditions for the proposed disposal of these plots.

Q73. COUNCILLOR GERRY BREEN
The footpaths outside, (details supplied), are in need of repair. Can the Manager arrange for this work to be carried out?

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The paths at this location have been inspected by the Parks and Landscape Services Division, and arrangements are being put in place for the necessary repair works to be carried out during the current week.

Q74. COUNCILLOR GERRY BREEN
Can the Manager arrange for traffic lights on, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Designs for signal controlled pedestrian facilities are being prepared as part of the, (details supplied), Improvement Scheme.

Q75. COUNCILLOR GERRY BREEN
There is a dangerous dip in the pavement outside, (details supplied), can the Manager arrange to have it fixed.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
An investigation to determine the cause of the trip will be carried out this week and any remedial measures will be carried out as required.

Q76. COUNCILLOR NAOISE O’MUIRÍ
Can the Manager:
- clarify which public agency has responsibility for removing litter and rubbish (a) along the sea-wall shoreline from Alfie Byrne Road to the Bull Island and (b) along the western Bull Island breakwater,
- if the responsibility is with City Council, ensure that it is done regularly as it has not been done for some time,
- if the responsibility is with another agency, write to that agency and request that it is done regularly.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Both of the locations indicated above are understood to be the maintenance responsibility of Dublin Port. The steps at the bathing shelters are kept clear of litter and algae by Parks & Landscape Services Division. Dublin City Council frequently advises Dublin Port of concerns regarding the presence of material at both of the above locations. The extent of the problem varies with tides, and general weather conditions. An area can be cleaned and very quickly, material can be deposited contained in the tides. A meeting is being arranged to take place between North Central Area Staff and Dublin Port in the coming weeks where these concerns will be forwarded.

Q77. COUNCILLOR NAOISE O’MUIRÍ
(Details supplied), has plumbed his house for gas usage but is being told via Bord Gais/their subcontractors that there is some sort of delay, problem or backlog with getting authorisation from City Council to do the necessary works on the road/pathway. I have checked with the local Area Office in this regard and they are not aware of any issues in this regard - can the Manager confirm if any related issues/data exist within Civic Offices.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Roadworks Control Section of Dublin City Council has suspended the issuing of new permits to Bord Gais and its contractor Enterprise to undertake works in the public domain with effect from the 26/2/2007.

This suspension has arisen because of Dublin City Council’s dissatisfaction with the method of work operations employed by Enterprise, the poor standard of reinstatements, and concerns over safety with regard to the general public and the numerous violations issued in respect of these issues.

At a meeting on the 14/3/2007, Bord Gáis and its contractors Enterprise gave an undertaking to Mr. Tim O’Sullivan, Executive Manager of the Roads & Traffic Division to address the issues raised above and to complete the backlog of outstanding reinstatements within the next 6-7 weeks under existing permits. In the interim no new permits will be issued to Bord Gais until Dublin City Council is satisfied with the performance of Enterprise on the above.

Q78. COUNCILLOR NAOISE O’MUIRÍ
Can the Manager provide me with a report detailing the latest situation regarding the redevelopment of Clontarf Baths.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Attached is a copy of the notes from a pre-application consultation, which took place on October 4th 2006.

No further discussions have been held in relation to the redevelopment of this site and no application has been submitted.

Q79. COUNCILLOR NAOISE O’MUIRÍ
Can the Manager deal with the following, (details supplied).
Can the Manager provide me with a report detailing:
- the current zoning/protection status of the houses including the building themselves and curtilages front and rear,
- the history behind previous efforts in this regard,
- options that might be open to residents in this regard. Would it be possible to change the protection/zoning of the front gardens while at the same time putting in place a clear protocol governing planning Grants for driveways at this location?

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
1.The houses on, (details supplied), are zoned Z2, the objective of which is “To protect and/or improve the amenities of residential conservation areas”. These houses are also on the Record of Protected Structures, which includes the buildings themselves and the curtilage e.g. railings and boundary walls.

2.There has been a long history of planning applications on, (details supplied), for the development of vehicular access and car parking in front gardens.

From a review of these histories it would appear that any approvals by the planning authority for vehicular access and car parking areas were issued prior to the adoption of the Dublin City Development Plan 1999 and 2005 and the adoptions of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act 1999 and the subsequent Planning and Development Act 2000.

There may have been developments of this nature in more recent years on, (details supplied), but they appear to be unauthorised. The planning authority has refused permission for the development of vehicular access and car parking areas in front gardens along, (details supplied), for more than ten years.

Plan Ref. No. 0819/94
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for a driveway and parking to front at 106, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3. This refusal of permission was upheld on appeal to An Bord Pleanála (PL29N.094028).

Plan Ref. No. 2084/95
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for the provision of double gates and piers in front boundary wall for access for 2 car spaces at front of 124, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3. This refusal of permission was upheld on appeal (PL29N.097952).

Plan Ref. No. 1574/97
Refers to the decision to refuse permission by Dublin Corporation and granted by An Bord Pleanála on appeal (PL29N.103999) for a vehicular access gate to the front of 52, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Plan Ref. No. 0177/97
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for proposed vehicular access onto, (details supplied), (split decision with grant of permission for 2 storey extension to rear and attic conversion) at 119, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Plan Ref. No. 0692/97
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for the retention of vehicular entrance and driveway to the front at 137, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Plan Ref. No. 2228/98
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for provision of joint vehicular access and turning bay and 2 no. car parking spaces to front at 138 / 139, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3. This refusal was upheld on appeal (PL29N.108895).

Plan Ref. No. 2334/99
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for the retention of vehicular entrance and driveway to the front of, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Plan Ref. No. 0378/99
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for parking in the front garden of 48, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3. This refusal was upheld on appeal to An Bord Pleanála (PL29N.111232).

Plan Ref. No. 0639/99
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for vehicular access with gates to front at 119, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3. This refusal was upheld on appeal to An Bord Pleanála (PL29N.111475).

Plan Ref. No. 2334/99
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for the retention of a vehicular access and driveway to the front of No. (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3. This refusal was upheld on appeal to An Bord Pleanála (PL 29N.116539).

Plan Ref. No. 2454/99
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for Vehicular access to front at 107, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Plan Ref. No. 0776/00
Refers to the decision to refuse permission for the retention of vehicular access to the front of no. 111, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Plan Ref. No. 3734/04
Refers to decision to refuse permission for new front vehicle entrance, gates and piers to match existing house at 12, (details supplied), Clontarf, Dublin 3 which is a protected structure.

3.The general policy with regard to car parking within the curtilage of protected structures and conservation areas is set out in the Dublin City Development Plan 2005 –2011.

POLICY H7
“It is the policy of Dublin City Council to facilitate limited off street parking provision for residential owners/occupiers where appropriate site conditions exist while protecting the special interest and character of protected structures and conservation areas. This policy will be implemented through the provisions of Section 15.10.5 and Appendix 18.”

Generally such car parking will be allowed if it does not have a serious impact on the protected structure. It should be noted that a proposed variation to the Development Plan, which clarifies this matter, particularly where it relates to large front gardens, has been presented to the Economic Development, Planning and European Affairs Strategic Policy Committee and will be presented at the next City Council meeting.

Q80. COUNCILLOR BRONWEN MAHER
To ask the Manager to arrange for the Litter Warden to inspect the laneway to the rear of Belton Park Avenue and the shops on Collins Avenue West on a regular basis as apparently waste from the shops and public house is not being stored correctly and are causing littering along the lane.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The Litter Warden will monitor and check these shops and laneways on a regular basis and will call to these premises to inform them of their duties under the Litter Act.

Q81. COUNCILLOR BRONWEN MAHER
To ask the Manager to arrange for the trees outside, (details supplied), to be inspected for pruning.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The medium sized trees on the roadside open space have been inspected and are not considered to require general pruning at this time. Arrangements will however be made to carry out removal of some low level branches of the tree outside, (details supplied).

Q82. COUNCILLOR BRONWEN MAHER
To ask the Manager if any pre-planning meetings have taken place, or are due to take place in respect of the Smurfit site in Glasnevin Dublin 9. If Dublin City Council have been in any discussions regarding the future development of this site and if they could provide details of such discussions. Also what applications have been submitted if any regarding the site. As the site is currently being cleared, do the City Council have information regarding this site clearance, and who is in possession of the site. Are there plans for any sites adjacent to the Smurfit site to be developed in or around the same period as any development of the Smurfit site.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Redevelopment proposals for this site are anticipated but, to my knowledge, no pre-application consultations have occurred and no planning application has been received.

The Planning Enforcement Officer for the area inspected the site on the 6th September 2006 and he advised that the demolition works were exempt development and the enforcement file was then closed. The reputed owner of the site is Danninger Limited, Chapel House, 21/26 Parnell Street, Dublin 1.

Q83. COUNCILLOR BRONWEN MAHER
To ask the Manager to respond to issues raised in the attached correspondence, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The returned Yes/No ballot will determine whether or not paid parking controls are introduced on, (details supplied). In relation to the operational hours it is considered fair and equitable that all residents/voters should have their say on their preference.

Q84. COUNCILLOR DEIRDRE HENEY
To ask the Manager if he will refer to previous commitments by management in relation to the enforcement of the dog fouling bye-laws against offending dog owners and:
(1) confirm that adequate budgetary resources are being allocated to enforcement in this regard as was agreed at Estimates,
(2) say what the allocation is,
(3) say if he will agree to a concentration litter wardens at area, details attached, for a period say of 3 to 4 weeks, so that enforcement can be carried out against the continuing offending dog owners who allow their dogs to foul public paths causing a danger to pedestrians, particularly the elderly and the very young,
(4) finally arrange to erect dog fouling signs in the area at the request of the residents.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Dublin City Council is committed to enforcing the provisions of the Litter Pollution Acts and particularly in relation to dog related offences.

1. Adequate resources have been provided for in the 2007 Estimates.
2. An amount of €2.8m has been provided for Area based cleaning initiatives which includes the provision of dog signs and dog bins.
An amount of €13m. has been provided for citywide street cleaning which includes the removal of dog faeces.
3. The local Litter Warden will monitor these roads on a daily basis but it would not be possible to commit both Litter Wardens to one area over a 3 to 4 week period due to the large workload that they already cover in the North Central Area
4. The Anti Litter Officer will arrange for signs to be erected in the areas mentioned above

Q85. COUNCILLOR DEIRDRE HENEY
To ask the Manager to refer to junction at, (details supplied), and say:
(1) why the left filter light turning from (a) to (b) details attached was removed,
(2) if the filter light can now be re-introduced,
(3) what plans there are in place to further improve ease of traffic movements at this junction.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The issues about the filter light at, (details supplied), have been referred to the Intelligent Traffic Systems Section (ITS) for investigation and a report will be issued upon completion.

Q86. COUNCILLOR DEIRDRE HENEY
Can the Manager please refer to area, (details supplied), and respond to residents requests for:
(1) installation of Double Yellow Lines at the entrance to, (details supplied), as all day parking is causing difficulties for residents with access/egress to and from, (details supplied),
(2) provision of residential disk parking at, (details supplied),
and say what procedure residents should follow to set above requests in motion and also, give detailed explanation as to the criteria required for both

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The request to examine the issues of installing double yellow lines at the entrance to, (details supplied), and for the provision of permit parking along the road will be referred to the Traffic Advisory Group, TAG, for investigation and a report issued to the councillor upon completion.

The installation of double yellow lines is recommended where a safety issue arises from the position of parked vehicles.

The requirement for permit parking (formerly called disc parking) is that more than 80% of available parking space should be normally occupied during business hours. If this requirement is met and the road is wide enough so that it is possible to provide legal parking without causing a hazard or an obstruction, a scheme is drawn up which residents are asked to vote to accept or reject. A simple majority decides.

Q87. COUNCILLOR RAY CORCORAN
To ask the City Manager to arrange for the following repairs to property at, (details supplied):
o Kitchen sink plug hole which was measured 5 times and not replaced.
o New ball cock for toilet.
o Radiator in sitting room needs replacing.
o Boiler needs replacing.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
There have been access problems with this dwelling.

A new sink grating and new ballcock for the WC cistern will be installed and the boiler and radiator will be repaired when access is gained to the property.

Q88. COUNCILLOR RAY CORCORAN
To ask the City Manager to arrange for roof repairs to flat roof over box room in, (details supplied). The rafters are rotting and need replacing, as does the flashing.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The necessary work will be completed in the coming weeks.

Q89. COUNCILLOR RAY CORCORAN
To ask the City Manager to arrange for the removal of bushes and shrubbery at the side of, (details supplied), as was originally agreed as anti social elements are using this area.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
This work was carried out two years ago. However Parks Department will arrange for any regrowth to be removed within the next 6 – 8 weeks

Q90. COUNCILLOR RAY CORCORAN
To ask the City Manager to explain why, (details supplied), was allocated with the following maintenance problems and to give a timeframe as to when they will be remedied:
A. Leaking toilet (not secured properly),
B. Lose sink in bathroom,
C. Kitchen units need replacement,
D. Cooker mains socket water running down,
E. Frames on doors left in terrible state,
F. Ceiling in bedroom covered in graffiti,
G. Heating needs to be checked.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A transfer was approved to, (details supplied), to relieve overcrowding in the week prior to Christmas 2006. Some repairs, which were required at the date of approval, were carried out in January 2007. Further repairs are required which are now being carried out. It is expected that the works will be completed in the next 2 weeks.

Q91. COUNCILLOR DESSIE ELLIS
To ask the City Manager to arrange for repairs to pathway outside, (details supplied), as they are in a bad state.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The footpath outside, (details supplied), is in a reasonable condition. However the kerb/footpath fronting the adjoining dwelling has been damaged by cars illegally crossing the footpath. The householder will be requested to fund the construction of a vehicular dishing.

Q92. COUNCILLOR DESSIE ELLIS
To ask the City Manager to arrange for the replacement of litter bin outside, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Waste Management Services are currently replacing the litter bins throughout the city with a new improved type of litter bin. We will have a new litter bin fitted outside, (details supplied), within the next four weeks.

Q93. COUNCILLOR DESSIE ELLIS
To ask the City Manager to arrange for double yellow lines to be placed outside entrance at, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The request to examine the issue of providing double yellow lines at the entrance to, (details supplied), will be referred to the Traffic Advisory Group, TAG, for investigation and a report issued to the Councillor upon completion.

Q94. COUNCILLOR DESSIE ELLIS
To ask the City Manager to arrange for the sound signal on the traffic lights on, (details supplied), at the senior citizens complex to be repaired, as there is a person with visual problems who crosses here regularly.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The issue of installing audio tactile on the pedestrian lights at the senior citizens complex on, (details supplied), has been referred to the Intelligent Traffic Systems Section (ITS) for investigation and a report will be issued upon completion.

Q95. COUNCILLOR JOAN COLLINS
Will the Manager please supply me with the following information:
The annual amount in aggregate, of money's paid to a company or companies to supply chemicals to the water supply?
The annual amount of moneys paid to a company or companies for each chemical supplied and or added to the water supply and the names of the company or companies.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The following is the position:

Company Chemical Paid 2006
Abbeywater Ltd Polyelectrolyte €7,170
Albatros Chemicals Flouride €4,448
Albion Chemical Distribution Chlorine €148,175
BOC Gasses Chlorine €45,863

Chemifloc International LTD Aluminium Sulphate Liquid
Fluoride
Polyelectrolyte
€1,052,834
€405,604
€28,458

Clogrennane Lime €285,178
Univar Irl Ltd Sodium Hypochlorite €21,634
BOC Gasses Chlorine Gas €7,290
Albion Chemicals Chlorine Gas €21,870

The engagement of the companies in mentioned for the supply of the above products was made following a public procurement process.

Q96. COUNCILLOR JOAN COLLINS
Will the Manager organise and provide me with a health and safety report of Neagh Road Park, Dublin 6. In particular the railings, the wire mesh and the building.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Neagh Road Park will be inspected to evaluate any immediate Health and Safety issues, in particular the railing and fences. All Health and Safety implications will be considered for any new development works carried out in this location in the future. A report will issue to the Councillor.

Q97. COUNCILLOR JOAN COLLINS
Can the Manager advise why it is the case that when a mobile phone company apply for planning permission to erect a phone mast/antennae that distance from schools and residential housing is considered. When it is exempted there are no considerations for its distance to schools and residential housing. If this is the case would the manager consider changing this anomaly (considering the motion passed at Council proposing 1km distance between masts and schools and residents) and will the manager advise how best this can be done?

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The policy of the City Council in relation to masts is set out in Appendix 12 ‘Guidelines on Telecommunications Antennae’ of the current City Development Plan.

Paragraph two is relevant:

‘Only as a last resort, and after all the alternative options are found to be unavailable or unsuitable, will the location of free standing masts be considered in a residential area or beside a school. If such a location should become necessary, sites already developed for utilities should be considered, and masts and antennae should be designed and adopted for the specific location’

A Planning Application for a mast would be assessed having regard to this policy. Any changes to this policy restricting transmitters in proximity to schools and other establishments would require a variation of the City Development Plan.

I have attached a copy of what is exempted development in respect of mobile phone installations as set out in Article 6, Schedule 2, Class 31 Exempted Development Regulations contained within the Planning and Development Regulations 2001

Any change to the Exempted Development Regulations would be a matter for the Minister Environment Heritage and Local Government.

Q98. COUNCILLOR JOAN COLLINS
Will the Manager respond positively to the request by residents on, (details supplied), to have the trees removed from the pathway and that the two trees planted by Dublin City Council in the garden of, (details supplied), be removed. The trees are causing damage to the pathway, they have broken the pathway from their roots, this is causing problems and could cause future accidents. A number appear to be rotton. This request comes from the eight houses on this stretch of, (details supplied).

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
Parks and Landscape Services Division have inspected the trees along, (details supplied), on a number of occasions in the recent past. The trees in question were not found to have caused significant damage to the path to merit complete removal. A decision was made to retain the trees due to their environmental and amenity value to the local community. The Area Maintenance Officer will inspect the trees in the garden of, (details supplied), and take appropriate action to prune or remove if required.

Q99. COUNCILLOR MARY FITZPATRICK
Will the Manager please arrange to have, (details supplied), attended to.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
The laneway behind nos. 22 to 28, (details supplied), is not in charge of Dublin City Council.

Waste Management Services inspected the laneway to the rear of, (details supplied), on the 28th March 2007 and found that there was no litter or rubbish dumped there in any event

Q100. COUNCILLOR MARY FITZPATRICK
Will the Manager please provide a report detailing the various attempts that have been made by DCC Traffic Department to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion in, (details supplied), adjacent to the school entrance over the last two years. And advise if “resident only parking” can be established in the area between the hours of 08.00-09.00 and 13.00 – 15.00.

CITY MANAGER’S REPLY:
A number of meetings were held at the end of 2005 and early 2006 between residents, public representatives, Gardaí from Cabra and officials from the Traffic Department to discuss traffic issues on, (details supplied).

The provision of a no entry’ at the entrance to the cul-de-sac and pedestrianisation during certain hours were investigated. However, as it was felt that these would also cause difficulties for local residents, they did not proceed.

Among the traffic measures introduced in recent years were the provision of traffic signals in recent years including the provision of pedestrian facilities at the junction of Kinvara Avenue and, (details supplied). Also ‘caution children’ and ‘school ahead’ signage have been provided in the general area in recent years.

Feedback is currently being sought as to what parking restrictions residents want to see introduced on their road.

Under existing road traffic regulations, it is not possible to introduce ‘residents only’ parking on public roads.