NOTIFICATION TO ATTEND MONTHLY MEETING OF THE SOUTH EAST AREA COMMITTEE TO BE HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY HALL, DUBLIN 2 ON MONDAY

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1 NOTIFICATION TO ATTEND MONTHLY MEETING OF THE SOUTH EAST AREA COMMITTEE TO BE HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY HALL, DUBLIN 2 ON MONDAY 11 th JANUARY 2016 AT 3.00pm TO EACH MEMBER OF THE SOUTH EAST AREA COMMITTEE You are hereby notified to attend the monthly meeting of the above committee to be held in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Dublin 2 on Monday 11 th January 2016 at 3.00pm to deal with the items on the agenda attached herewith. Rose Kenny Area Manager Dated this 6 th January 2016 Contact Persons: Fiona O Brien, Jennifer Wall Block 2, Floor 4, Civic Offices, Dublin 8. Tel: , 5164 Fax: fiona.obrien@dublincity.ie jennifer.wall@dublincity.ie

2 500. Minutes of the meeting held on 14 th December 2015 (pages 5-35) Questions to the Chief Executive (pages 45 50) Environment & Transportation Matters i. Minutes from the Traffic Advisory Group Meeting of 15/12/2015 (enclosed) Planning Property Enterprise and Economic Development Department Matters i. Report on the proposed amendment of current entry in the Record of Protected Structures for 32 Pembroke Street lower, Dublin 2 (enclosed). ii. iii. iv. Report on the proposed amendment of current entry in the Record of Protected Structures for Exchange Buildings, Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2 (enclosed). Report on the proposed amendment of current entry in the Record of Protected Structures for 2, 3 4 Church Lane and 1 2 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 (enclosed). Report on the proposed amendment of current entry in the Record of Protected Structures for Mount Jerome Cemetery, Harold s Cross, Dublin 6 (enclosed). v. Report on the proposed amendment of current entry in the Record of Protected Structures on the Record of Protected Structures for 2 Green Street East, Dublin 2 (enclosed) South East Area Matters i. Updates on the following: Environmental Services Unit (page 36). Community Development Section (pages 37). Housing Projects and Local Area Improvements (page 38-39). South East Area Sport and Recreation Section (pages 40-41). ii. South East Area Budget iii. Report on Halloween 2015 (pages 42 44). 2

3 Motions 505. Motion from Councillor Dermot Lacey This committee requests the Area Manager to prepare a report on the suitability of including the RTE Aerial on the Record of Protected Structures Motion from Councillor Paddy Smyth This committee calls on the Traffic Department to develop a long term traffic management plan and both a peak and off-peak parking plan for Rathdown Park and Avenue, Terenure, Dublin 6. Its current use as a 'rat-run' and de facto car park for Bushy Park is unsustainable and causes an inordinate amount of inconvenience to the residents Motion from Councillor Paddy Smyth That the redesign of College Green incorporates a 20km/h speed limit on areas where buses and cyclists share a lane. Also, in order to encourage compliance and ensure smooth, energy efficient movement of both types of traffic, sequenced LED lights, embedded in the road, are used to visually indicate the speed of flow Motion from Councillor Dermot Lacey This committee agrees that the additional newly available evening classes in Irishtown stadium have proven a great success and that when the Markievicz facility is re-opened these classes should remain in the Irishtown Stadium with new ones opening in Markievicz. Locals hope to keep the classes on in Irishtown as the surge of members has been staggering and it would be a shame not to continue Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews That the manager give assurances that the closure of the bring centre at Rutland Grove will not go ahead without consultation with the neighbouring residents and local councillors Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews That given the moving of the post office and the serious inconvenience for older residents in the Kevin Street area the council will prioritise making it easier for residents to cross New Street South safely as it is a very fast moving and dangerous road to cross Motion from Councillor Sonya Stapleton That this committee request a weigh bridge be put in place for health and safety reason. The new bridge on Bath Avenue / Londonbridge Road was built as a flood defence with a 3 ton limited. Unfortunately this is becoming a very hazardous location due to heavy trucks breaking the rules Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That the Area Manager prioritises the following areas in addressing the dog fouling issue in 2016: Portobello Clanbrassil Street Ringsend Pearse Street Grand Canal Walkway / Cycle way 3

4 513. Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That the Area Manager review the sequencing of the pedestrian lights at Leonard s Corner as it is extremely difficult to cross quickly and safely at this junction with waiting times of up to three minutes at the South Circular Road crossing (at the Post Office) Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That this Area Committee will write to Waterways Ireland asking them to provide specific bins for dog litter along The Grand Canal such as those in the attached image that are currently used in Fingal Motion from Councillor Frank Kennedy When the Markievicz Centre re-opens the classes which are currently being provided at Irishtown Stadium will revert to the Markievicz Centre. This committee welcomes the re-opening of the Markievicz Centre but calls upon this council to provide classes at Irishtown Stadium to replace the classes which are now reverting to Markievicz Centre. These classes were very popular with local residents. This committee notes and appreciates that in due course a review of the provision (or lack thereof) of classes at Irishtown Stadium will take place and will, subject to resources, attempt to address any shortcomings to meet the demand. This committee welcomes the review and states its desire that the effect of the review will result in the provision of classes at Irishtown Stadium Motion from Councillor Frank Kennedy This committee states its desire that sense prevail in the dispute between the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) and the residents of Longboat Quay and shall write to the Chairman and CEO of the DDDA (both of whom are senior executives of this council) requesting that, in order to avoid unnecessary and expensive litigation costs, the Chairman and CEO meet with the residents / the management company with a view to compromising the dispute Motion from Councillor Frank Kennedy This committee will write to the Minister for Education expressing its wishes that a suitable site for the Shellybanks Educate Together National School (ETNS) be acquired without delay, to notify the parents of the site for this school and to ensure that construction of a building for the school is completed in time for the school year commencing in September Motion from Councillor Mannix Flynn That this meeting of the South East Area call on the CEO to ensure that the City Hall remains open on Sundays throughout Many visitors will be in the city and it s unacceptable that the City Hall would remain closed to visitors. It is a main feature of our tourist industry and a main feature of the Dubline initiative notwithstanding the fact that it is a working building for many councillors who can only do certain work on weekends. The City Hall makes decent enough revenue through all its activities to facilitate Sunday opening for all. 4

5 SOUTH EAST AREA COMMITTEE COISTE CHEANTAR AN OIRDHEISCIRT MINUTES OF MEETING HELD ON 14 th DECEMBER 2015 ORDUITHE A DEINEADH AN COISTE 14 NOLLAIG Pre-part 8 notification, report and brief presentation on Chocolate Park. Order: Noted Minutes of the meeting held on 9 th November Order: Amend minutes to reflect that Motion 454 from Cllr. Jim O Callaghan was amended to refer to a pedestrian entrance and was agreed. Agreed Questions to the Chief Executive. Order: Noted Culture, Recreation, Amenity & Community Department Matters i. Discussion on potential proposals for VEC grounds Terenure Order: Noted. Parks Superintendent advised that Dublin City Council has had no discussions with the VEC. Councillors will be advised of any change. Cllr. Freehill proposed that in future the agreed principal of any proposals in the SEA LEC come before the LES Committee, which was agreed Planning Property Enterprise and Economic Development Department Matters i. Planning application for Donnybrook House Donnybrook Road. Order: Noted. ii. iii. Proposed disposal of Coach Houses to rear of 14 and 15 St. Stephen s Green North, Dublin 2 to Anville Properties Ltd. Order: Agreed to recommend to City Council. Report on proposed grant of a Lease of a retail unit at corner of Fenian Street / Holles Street, Dublin 2. Order: Agreed to recommend to City Council. iv. Proposal disposal: City Square, South Gloucester Street, Dublin 2. Order: Agreed to recommend to City Council. v. Report on proposed addition to the Record of Protected Structures of the Former Fire Station Building, 190a Rathmines Road Lower. Order: Agreed to initiate the process. vi. Report on proposed amendment of and proposed addition to the Record of Protected Structures of stone structure at corner of Nassau Street and Dawson Street. Order: Agreed to initiate the process. 5

6 vii. viii. Planning Enforcement Quarterly Report. Order: Noted. Derelict Sites Report. Order: Noted Environment & Transportation Matters i. Minutes from the Traffic Advisory Group Meeting of 24/11/2015. Order: Noted South East Area Matters i. Updates on the following: Environmental Services Unit. Community Development Section. Housing Projects and Local Area Improvements. South East Area Sport and Recreation Section. Order: Noted. ii. Nomination of three South East Area councillors to sit on an oversight committee for the River Dodder Greenway Project, comprising members and officials from Dublin City Council and South Dublin County Council. Order: Agreed to nominate Councillors Paddy Smyth, Dermot Lacey and Patrick Costello to sit on an oversight committee for the River Dodder Greenway Project. 6

7 Motions 465. Motion from Councillor Kieran Binchy (Motion 440 November SEAC) That this committee asks the manager to find a long-term solution to the litter and nuisance caused by the fruit trees on Carlisle Street and Emorville Avenue in Portobello, and in the meanwhile calls on him to ensure that the streets and footpaths are swept and cleaned regularly to keep them clear of rotting fruit. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews (Motion 443 November SEAC) That the Manager has the particularly large trees in the grotto opposite 8 Bremen Avenue removed, as they are damaging the surface and replant with one or two small appropriate-sized trees. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews (Motion 444 November SEAC) That the Manager will have the large planter area opposite 33 Kerlogue Road in Ringsend cleaned up and resurfaced in a manner that will mean weeds won t grow through the tarmac. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews (Motion 445 November SEAC) That the Manager put in place gates to the rear of 5 Leukos Road in Ringsend. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews (Motion 446 November SEAC) That the Manager ensure that Peterson s Court and Dowling Court are cleared of all the leaves and weeds that are there, as there are a lot of older people in this area and the damp leaves are making them nervous when out walking. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne (Motion 447 November SEAC) That this area committee asks the Area Manager to increase the street cleaning in the Portobello area over the coming months to remove the leaves and the fruit on the footpaths which have become hazardous to those walking in the area. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne (Motion 448 November SEAC) That this area committee supports proposals to develop the derelict site on the corner of New Street and New Street Gardens into housing for elderly people. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne (Motion 449 November SEAC) That this area committee asks the Area Manager to furnish the members with copies of all reports and correspondence between Dublin City Council, the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA), the National Assets Management Agency (NAMA) and the Dublin Fire Brigade relating to the health and safety and fire hazard issues identified in Long Boat Quay South. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Sonya Stapleton (Motion 452 November SEAC) That this committee requests that the Manager implements a plan to have the planters that are already in place in O'Rahilly House, Ringsend furnished with plants / flowers. 7

8 The residents have confirmed they will in turn be responsible for the upkeep of these after the work has been done. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Sonya Stapleton (Motion 453 November SEAC) That this committee requests the Manager to have the courtyard grounds at the front of O'Carroll Villas flats resurfaced / tarmacadamed. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill (Motion 455 November SEAC) Due to the likelihood of a considerable amount of construction development in the near future and the fact that Harold s Cross is one of the main arteries into the city which puts a great strain on the functioning of the village as a community; now is the time to examine the best approach for the future for this neighbourhood. Therefore it is agreed that a Village Design Statement be prepared for Harold s Cross similar to that which was recently completed for Sandymount. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill (Motion 456 November SEAC) That the Manager gives us a report on the issue of bollards on the public footpath recently erected at Melia s Petrol Station, Harold s Cross Road and Leinster Road West. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill (Motion 457 November SEAC) That the Manager gives us a report on progress on the following motion which was agreed at February 2015 South East Area Committee meeting: In line with Dublin City Council / Health Service Executive (HSE) Age Friendly Strategy and conscious of the absence of a plan for the west side of Dublin South East, this committee Acknowledges the lack of suitable accommodation on the market for people who want to sell their homes and down size as they get older. Agrees to investigate the possibility of The City Architect initiating the design of a prototype block of age friendly apartments for older people that might possibility be located on the Rathmines Cleansing Yard Site. The process would involve investigation of appropriate age friendly design principles e.g. larger verandas for small gardens, common guest bedrooms, disabled access etc. The objective would be to produce a design in conjunction with the HSE to devise a sustainable model. As a first step a working group comprised of members of Dublin South East Local Area Committee, HSE and other professionals could be established to progress this proposal. Order: Agreed to set up a working group. Taken with Motion Motion from Councillor Ruairí McGinley That the Manager report in detail to this committee on how arrangements can be improved to respond better to known annual events of falling leaves and autumn rainfall which places increased demands on gully cleaning and street cleansing. Order: Agreed. 8

9 479. Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill That the Area Manager explains why a letter from Brighton Square Residents Association to the City Manager, June 2015 has not been dealt with. The association requested an onsite meeting to discuss: 1. The condition of lampposts around the square, some of which are in a state of disrepair. 2. Pavement and road surfaces which appear to need a considerable amount of work. 3. The need for integrated street signage some of which is currently damaged. The request for this meeting was refused. Has the Area Manager provided any funding in the budget or are these items listed for works in the coming year? It is agreed that an onsite meeting will be held in the next four weeks to address these issues. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill That local area committee set up a meeting with Dublin Bus, Transport Authority and Traffic Dept. to discuss ways of restoring the 15 and 140 Buses routes to St. Stephen s Green and Earlsfort Terrace. Order: Agreed. Taken with Motion Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill In the light of the flood risk as shown in the CFRAM maps currently on display in Dublin City Council Civic Office s Atrium, that the Manager prepares a report on the extra service provision that will be put in place for Autumn 2016 to quickly collect leaves in areas most at risk of flooding, to ensure that gullies are functioning efficiently so that flooding likelihood is minimised. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Mary Freehill That the Manager state why Dublin City Council is prepared to take Purser Gardens in charge at this stage when back in 2006 it stated the Church of Ireland and the residents would need to make 96,000 available to bring it up to standard. In the recent proposal there is no mention of a charge. Would the Manager inform us of: A. The connection between the proposed rezoning of the Church of Ireland Training College lands for development and whether it is intended that Purser Gardens would become one of the main access to the site. B. Have developers of the Church of Ireland site offered to pay for the reinstatement of the road and if not why the change in policy. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Frank Kennedy This committee supports the conversion of one of the two pitches known as pitch 1 and pitch 3 in Herbert Park to a 4G all-weather pitch in circumstances where such a facility is desperately needed and where it is understood that the proposal is supported by all six sports clubs and the school which use these pitches. This Committee calls on the City Parks Superintendent to convene a meeting at which all relevant stakeholders are invited to discuss the issue of the request to 9

10 convert one of the two pitches known as "pitch 1" and "pitch 2" in Herbert Park to a 4G all-weather pitch. Order: It was proposed by Cllr. Kennedy that the motion be amended to read This Committee calls on the City Parks Superintendent to convene a meeting at which all relevant stakeholders are invited to discuss the issue of the request to convert one of the two pitches known as "pitch 1" and "pitch 2" in Herbert Park to a 4G all-weather pitch. Agreed Motion from Councillor Frank Kennedy In circumstances where Irish Rail proposes to extend DART services from on average every 15 minutes to every ten minutes, this committee agrees that it should write to Irish Rail and the NTA calling on the signal system at Sydney Parade and Sandymount stations to be improved to the optimum standard. The railway gates at Sydney Parade and Sandymount at present close on a very frequent basis for periods of three to four minutes and at times for up to seven minutes. Traffic queues build up very quickly and the movement of motor vehicular traffic as well as pedestrians and cyclists is delayed to a considerable extent. Local residents have approached Irish Rail about this issue only to be told that if the signal systems at Sydney Parade and Sandymount were updated the interval could be reduced but that there is no plan to upgrade the systems at present notwithstanding the fact that the signalling at other DART stations has been upgraded in recent times. In tandem with increasing the frequency of the DART it is imperative that the signal system be upgraded at Sydney Parade and Sandymount stations. To compound the present unsatisfactory situation is grossly unfair to local residents and the travelling public. It is also dangerous for the emergency services such as ambulances to be detained for so long, entirely unnecessarily, at these gates. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Frank Kennedy In circumstances where the extremely dangerous traffic situation at Strand Road continues without improvement and where an accident is apprehended on a daily basis by local residents, this committee resolves that the new area traffic engineer, on her / his appointment, should address this issue as their immediate and utmost priority. Residents are enraged at the lack of progress on this immensely dangerous issue. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Paddy Smyth This committee calls on the Traffic Department to perform a feasibility study on changing the road markings on Fortfield Road, from Greenlea Road to the swimming pool gates of Terenure College, to allow for a cycle lane, a 2" gap, and then liner parking spaces on the Dublin City Council side of the road. The area is in desperate need of both safe cycle facilities for the children cycling to Terenure College and Our Lady's, who currently have to swerve to avoid 'set down' parkers dropping their children at the back pedestrian and swimming pool gates to Terenure College. The area also needs dedicated parking facilities, particularly at weekends, when parents dropping / collecting their children to Terenure College Rugby Football Club (the largest mini-rugby club in Europe) via Greenlea Grove, is causing unprecedented congestion on this narrow residential street. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews That given the ongoing dumping in the bins in Vincent Street flats and the bring centre adjacent to the same flats and also the significant noise caused by users of 10

11 the bring centre this area committee supports the removal of the bins at Vincent Street. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews That given the heavy and ongoing dumping of rubbish at Rutland Grove Bring Centre this committee agrees that this site needs cameras to catch the people continuously dumping at the entrance to this bring centre. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews That the tree outside 10A Townsend Street be removed or be significantly cut back to prevent the roots going more damage to the surrounding paths and boundary wall. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Chris Andrews That given the extensive level of dog fouling in the Pearse Street area that the Manager commits to a Dog Fouling Enforcement Trial in Pearse Street area as part of the manager s area spend similar to the successful project in South Central. Order: Moved by Cllr. Stapleton. Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Jim O Callaghan That this committee calls on the Chief Executive to have Westbourne Road, Terenure resurfaced. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Patrick Costello That this area committee calls on the Manager to produce a report exploring options to make the 1916 memorial cross at Harold s Cross more visible. Currently the memorial is blocked by traffic lights in front of it, given the connections in the area to the rising and the centenary year local residents feel that this memorial should not be hidden away as at present but celebrated more. A full report looking at the feasibility of different options would be useful for councillors and residents to understand what would be possible. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Patrick Costello This area committee instructs the Manager to conduct an assessment of the junction from Harold s Cross Road onto Mount Tallant Avenue for compliance with 4.6 of the National Cycle Manual to ensure the safety of the high volumes of cyclists using this turn. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Patrick Costello This area committee instructs the Manager to conduct a traffic survey of Mount Tallant Avenue and surrounding roads such as Melvin Road and Neagh Road. I have received numerous complaints relating to it being used as a rat run through to Kimmage Road Lower and speeding associated with this use as a rat run. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Patrick Costello That the area committee agrees to provide as soon as possible a new licence to The Little Museum of Dublin in relation to 15 St. Stephen s Green up to The current licence runs to 2020 and council officials have stated that they will extend this to 2030 when the current licence expires, however in order to best protect and promote 11

12 the valuable cultural asset to the city that The Little Museum has become this extension should be granted as soon as possible instead of waiting until Order: Withdrawn by Cllr. Costello Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That this area committee agrees to make the following improvements to St. Mary s Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4: 1) To remove the leaves and unclog the drains which are blocked by the leaves. 2) To prune the trees. St. Mary s Road was included in the tree maintenance list for 2015 but the works have not yet been carried out. 3) To replace the tarmac that was used to fix the footpaths where the roots of the trees had lifted the footpath with a more suitable material in keeping with the streetscape. 4) To improve the street lighting on the street. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That this area committee asks the Area Manager to reinstate the 3 tonne limit sign on the bridge at Bath Avenue / Londonbridge Road and to carry out an assessment of the number of and the weight of the trucks using this bridge to access the development of the Poolbeg Incinerator. Order: Report to councillor Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That this area committee asks the Area Manager to call a halt to the use of tarmac around the city as a solution to the footpaths issue and to commit to only using flagstones or similar type materials when replacing footpaths and fixing other issues as a means to protect pedestrians and to improve the public realm. Order: Agreed Motion from Councillor Claire Byrne That this area committee asks the Area Manager to replace the trees that were recently removed from Essex Street West with new trees of similar height and berth and to commit to delivering this before the end of Order: Report to councillor. Councillor Paddy McCartan Chairperson Dated 14 th December

13 Attendance Members Councillor P. McCartan (in the chair). Councillors D. Lacey, F. Kennedy, J. O Callaghan, M. Flynn, P. Costello, R. McGinley, S. Stapleton, K. Binchy, C. Andrews, M. Freehill, P. Smyth, K. O Connell and C. Byrne. Officials R. Kenny, Area Manager, South East Area Office. F. Lambe, Senior Executive Officer, South East Area Office. M. Ginnetty, Assistant Staff Officer, South East Area Office. J. Wall, Staff Officer, South East Area Office. F. O Brien, Staff Officer, South East Area Office. L. O Connell, Staff Officer, South East Area Office. E. Martin, Area Housing Manager, South East Area Office. G. Geoghegan, Area Housing Manager, South East Area Office. P. Clegg, Executive Manager, Planning and Property Management Section and Acting CEO Dublin Docklands Development Authority. B. White, Senior Executive Officer, Roads and Traffic. S. Storan, Senior Executive Engineer, Docklands Unit. D. Garvey, Chief Valuer, Chief Valuer s Office. L. Bourke, Assistant Valuer, Chief Valuer s Office. L. Moore, City Parks Superintendant, Parks & Landscape Services Division. C. Hogan, Acting Conservation Officer, Heritage, Archaeology & Conservation Section. P. Fallon, Senior Planner, Heritage, Archaeology & Conservation Section. M. Igoe, Senior Executive Officer, Planning Management Team, Planning Department. 13

14 Question to Chief Executive South East Area Committee Meeting 14 th December 2015 Q.1 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the manager to resolve the issue of two cars continuously illegally parked on Summerville Park, Rathmines, details supplied. Dublin City Council s Parking Enforcement contractor, Dublin Street Parking Services, was instructed to monitor and enforce this location as resources permit. Several visits have been made to date in November with five vehicles being clamped for not having a valid resident s parking permit. One other vehicle owner was verbally warned as he returned to his vehicle. Most recent visits have not found any illegally parked vehicles on *details supplied. Q.2 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager to set out the brown bin arrangements that should apply in bag only waste collection areas in the city. There are no areas in the city which are classified as bag only collection areas and the City Council would like to see and encourage all areas or properties which are capable of taking a bin to do so. The brown bin has been designated as first priory in the hierarchy of bins which means that if a premises can take only one bin it should in the first instance be a brown bin. However it is accepted that at present there are some areas and properties which do not lend themselves to the storage or presentation of bins and these are currently been examined within the industry to try and come up with alternative commercial solutions for dealing with the issue of segregating and presenting compostable or brown bin waste for collection. The key issue at present is that there are simply no compostable bags available which would stand up to their presentation on public streets as they are primarily paper based products. Commercial companies are working towards minimising the number of properties and streets that can present bags for waste collection which is an objective supported by the City Council and also a requirement of new legislation which will come into effect in July Alternative commercial solutions will have to be found within the industry which will allow companies to offer a compostable waste solution to premises not suitable for one bin. The City Council will consult with private operators in reaching a solution which meets the needs of the City and which complies with the appropriate legislation. Q.3 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager to install a disabled parking space beside AIB bank in Rathgar Village. The request for a general Disabled Parking bay on Terenure Road near the AIB bank has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. 14

15 Q.4 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager to advise if Frankfort Avenue, Dublin 6 is included in the footpath repairs programme? A number of residents reported falls due to poor condition of footpaths. Road Maintenance inspected the footpaths on Frankfort Avenue, which were found to be serviceable with only minor defects. These minor defects have been added to our works programme and will be carried out when a crew becomes available in the neighbouring area. Q.5 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager to complete proper road reinstatement works at Orwell Road close to Supervalu - current road condition constitutes a hazard for cyclists, most especially school children, temporary repairs are insufficient for this heavily trafficked road. Sections of Orwell Road, including the area in front of the shops at Super Valu, are included in the 2016 works programme for repair. Q.6 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Manager if she will arrange for the very large pot hole at the top of Nutley Lane (left hand side going down the road) Donnybrook as it is quite dangerous. No pothole was located parallel to the Eircom Telephone Exchange. A pothole was located on the carriageway at the entrance to RTE (next to the Eircom telephone Exchange) which has been filled. Any other potholes on Nutley Lane were also filled. Q.7 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Area Manager if she will contact the management of Eir to request them to cut or at least seriously prune the massively overhanging tress at their telephone exchange at the top of Nutley Lane which are a serious danger to pedestrians and possibly more arising from their size. A notification has been issued to Eir requesting them to cut back their trees which are overhanging the public footpath. Q.8 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Area Manager can the tree outside number 2 / 3 Beech Hill Crescent, Donnybrook be removed as previously promised the tree, as predicted, is now lifting the garden wall and footpath and this week an elderly resident tripped and seriously hurt herself arising from same. The tree at this location currently forms part of our tree works programme and is scheduled for removal over the coming weeks. Q.9 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager to clear leaves on Garville Avenue and Frankfort Avenue, Dublin 6. 15

16 Waste Management Services Division operates a leaves removal programme during the autumn and winter months. Priority is given to tree-lined streets with heavy pedestrian use and areas particularly prone to flooding. We will ensure that Garville Avenue and Frankfort Avenue are included as often as possible during the course of this programme. Q.10 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Area Manager to urgently address the issue the road surface of Westbourne Avenue, Dublin 6 which has deteriorated terribly over the past twelve months, in particular. It would appear that there could be some subsidence and I wonder if there is a more serious problem lurking underneath. Perhaps there is a problem with the main sewerage drain that runs down the length of the road and could this be the cause of the road breaking up? I would be very grateful if Road Maintenance and Drainage Department could work together and give this matter their urgent attention before the problem develops into something a lot more serious. The drainage division has examined the sewer. The sewer is in good condition and is not the cause of the road subsidence. Road Maintenance inspected Westbourne Road and passed a request to the Drainage Dept carry out a site investigation of the sewer on Westbourne Road. The Drainage Dept advised there was no issue with the sewer pipe under this road and it is not sinking. Road Maintenance has added Westbourne Road to our works programme for repair. We will re-construct, in concrete, the turning bay in the cul de sac where the damage is most visible. The remainder of Westbourne Road (from junction of Rathfarnham Road to the turning bay) is serviceable and we intend to seal the cracks on this section with bitumen. These works will be carried out in spring 2016, when the weather is more suitable for concreting an area of this size. Two other minor defects were added to our list for repair - a pothole outside entrance to Westbourne Court and also a hole in the footpath outside no. 21 Westbourne Road. These have been filled in. Q.11 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager have the Drainage Division examine if additional gullies are required on Highfield Road to relieve current flooding points in particular on top half of road from Villiers Road to junction with Upper Rathmines Road. Highfield Road was inspected on the 23 rd of November 2015; with the gullies cleaned on the 25th. There appears to be sufficient gullies on the road. However, there are a lot of trees in private gardens, so fallen leaves may have contributed to recent surface water accumulations. The surface water drainage system on Highfield Road will be examined during inclement weather to establish if there is any risk of property flooding. If a direct 16

17 threat of property flooding is discovered, remedial action will be scheduled at that time. Q.12 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Manager to ensure that street cleansing deal with post weekend litter strewn as far as the phone box half way up Leinster Road all the way from Rathmines and also in Leinster Square. Waste Management Services will ensure that the above mentioned locations which are wind traps for litter are included in our post weekend cleaning schedule. Q.13 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Manager if there is a 3 Tonne Limit on Bath Avenue and Londonbridge Road. If there is, why are there no signs stating it? If there is not such a limit when was the previous ban reversed and finally if there is such a ban will the Area Manager ensure that the signs are re-erected and that the Gardaí are requested to enforce it? There is 3.5 tonne limit signage on Londonbridge Road, at its junction with Tritonville Road, and on Bath Avenue at its junction with Shelbourne Road. The signage has been referred to the Traffic Officer responsible for signage in the city to confirm that they are in order. Q.14 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Area Manager if the outer lines of trees at Clyde Lane that are to be retained along-side Herbert Park could be formally inspected to ensure their conditional safety. A condition assessment of these trees was undertaken in Resulting from this survey remedial works were undertaken in 2015, including the pruning of all the tree crowns to reduce the effect of high winds on the tree canopy. An additional condition assessment will be undertaken over the winter months to assess their current condition. Q.15 Councillor Ruairí McGinley To ask the Area Manager if provision is being made in 2016 works programmes for pavement repairs and road surfaces renewal in Brighton Square which appear to need a considerable amount of work. Road Maintenance inspected the footpaths and road in Brighton Square and found them to be serviceable with a few minor defects. Road Maintenance is available to meet one representative of the residents on site and exact locations can be pointed out. A representative of the residents committee can aisling.burke@dublincity.ie to arrange the on-site meeting. Q.16 Councillor Paddy Smyth Can the Area Manager see that below is inspected and necessary repairs take place on Brighton Square, Dublin 6. 17

18 a) The condition of lampposts around the square, some of which are in a state of disrepair; b) Pavement and road surfaces which appear to need a considerable amount of work; c) The need for integrated street signage some of which is currently damaged. a) The public lighting standards here have been added to a list for inclusion on a future painting programme, subject to finances made available. b) Road Maintenance inspected the footpaths and road in Brighton Square and found them to be serviceable with a few minor defects. Road Maintenance is available to meet one representative of the residents on site and exact locations can be pointed out. A representative of the residents committee can aisling.burke@dublincity.ie to arrange the on-site meeting. c) Clarification was received that the street signage are nameplates. Road Maintenance can discuss this with the resident s representative at the onsite meeting. Q.17 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Area Manager what alternatives will be pursued to avoid the cutting down of the line of trees along the Herbert Park Tennis Courts that is being pursued as there is a strong local opposition to their removal and to further ask that no action in this regard be taken on this prior to the issue being discussed by the Area Committee. As part of the development works associated with the upgrade of the tennis courts in Herbert Park, Dublin City Council intend to remove a line of 13 no. mature lime (Tilia sp.) trees that abut the tennis court fence in Herbert Park. The reason for removal of the trees is that their future viability is compromised by the restricted area for healthy root growth. In addition, the proposed ducting for floodlights will sever lateral roots, hastening their decline and leading to destabilisation of the trees. Furthermore, as the trees are planted against the fence the roots may have extended under the courts causing undermining and lifting of the tennis court surface. This will become apparent when the existing synthetic surface is lifted. The trees have been heavily pruned in the past making them more liable to entry by decay pathogens and eventual decline. One of the trees collapsed during the windy weather several weeks ago, most likely due to structural decay in the crown. In addition, removal of the trees will permit the healthy development of the remaining row of trees along Clyde Lane and ensure proper maintenance and management of the upgraded courts. A leaflet drop to residents of Clyde Lane was recently undertaken notifying them of our intention to remove the trees. In relation to opposition, to date, we received four correspondence from residents of Clyde Lane two in favour (phone call and ), one against (letter) their removal and a query ( ). 18

19 We intend to undertake replacement planting elsewhere in Herbert Park as part of the tree programme. Q.18 Councillor Frank Kennedy To ask the Area Manager to place the litter bin on Grantham Street on the same collection cycle (which includes weekend collections) as two adjacent street bins on either side of the junction on Camden Street. These bins are within yards of the bin on Grantham Street. The bin on Grantham Street is often completely stuffed, especially at weekend. Please see four photos attached. Waste Management Services will ensure that the litter bin on Grantham Street is included in weekend collections. Q.19 Councillor Frank Kennedy To ask the Area Manager to replace the parking bay outside No.16 Merlyn Drive with double yellow lines in circumstances where the existing bay is extremely dangerous given the very sharp turn at the corner of Merlyn Drive and where the residents of No.16 are entirely supportive of the proposal on safety grounds. The request to rescind a parking bay and replace with double yellow lines outside 16 Merlyn Drive has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.20 Councillor Frank Kennedy To ask the Area Manager to repair the footpath on Merlyn Drive on the opposite side of Merlyn Drive to No. 16 and No.12, which has been badly damaged by the roots of trees and is a danger to pedestrians, especially those coming and going to the DART station. Road Maintenance has inspected the footpaths both outside and opposite No. 16 and No. 12 Merlyn Drive. The footpath both outside and opposite this location is serviceable and does not require any repair work. Q.21 Councillor Frank Kennedy To ask the Area Manager to place additional speed ramps on Pembroke Street, Ringsend, especially at the Ringsend village end of Pembroke Street. Cars drive at ordinate speed on this narrow road and additional traffic calming is required. The request for additional speed ramps on Pembroke Street has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.22 Councillor Frank Kennedy Having regard to the appalling waste collection and illegal dumping problems on Pembroke Street, Irishtown to ask the Area Manager: a) When did the council stop its street cleaning on Pembroke Street; b) To restore Pembroke Street on the rota of daily street cleaning as a matter of urgency; and 19

20 c) To transfer Pembroke Street from a bin bags street to a wheelie bin street as a matter of urgency? Please see photos attached showing the dreadful condition Pembroke Street is left in on a Monday morning. As a residential area, Pembroke Street is scheduled to be cleaned every twelve weeks. However we have some extra cleaning carried out there between scheduled cleanings when necessary. We had extra cleaning carried out on Pembroke Street on the 2 nd December At present there are no plans to change the future status of Pembroke Street from an area where it is permitted to present bags for on street collection to one designated as bin only in line with upcoming legislation? The primary consideration in designating a street as bin only is based on a determination that the vast majority of residential properties on the street have sufficient space to accommodate bins externally which is not true of Pembroke Street and it is therefore likely that residents will continue to be able to present bags on the street for collection from an authorised waste contractor. Q.23 Councillor Frank Kennedy Q.19 at the February meeting of the South East Area Committee asked To ask the Area Manager to remove the tree outside No. 1 Beech Hill Crescent, Donnybrook, Dublin 4, in circumstances where the roots of the tree are digging up and damaging the footpath surface and also digging into and damaging the garden of the property at No.1. The following reply was received: The path at this location has been recently repaired and is considered to be safe. The removal of this tree will form part of a phased removal of trees in the area. However this work is not included in the works programme for The effects of this tree are now extremely dangerous. Ten months on it is now absolutely not safe. One elderly resident recently suffered a bad fall as a result of it. Now that 2015 is at an end, to ask the Manager to ensure that the removal of this tree is included in the works programme for 2016, and is removed in early course as a matter of urgency. The tree at this location will be felled as soon as practicable. Q.24 Councillor Frank Kennedy To ask the Area Manager to paint the yellow box on Sydney Parade Avenue at the exit from Ailesbury Gardens which is now extremely faded. This location will be inspected in the coming days. If required the yellow box will be listed and tasked for renewal. 20

21 Q.25 Councillor Chris Andrews That given the significant damage done by trees in Beechill Estate as a result the roots from the trees can the Area Manager have the pavements repaired effectively with the worst sections being replaced? Road Maintenance inspected the footpath at Beechill Estate. Defects were noted and added to our works programme. These repairs will be carried out when a crew becomes available in the neighbouring area. Q.26 Councillor Chris Andrews That bearing in mind the size of the houses and the high numbers of bicycle owners can the Area Manager have bike locking station installed at the entrance to Harty Place? This matter requires investigation and recommendation by an engineer. The Environment and Transportation Department is currently awaiting the filling of a number of vacancies. Job offers have been made to successful candidates and we are awaiting their acceptance and appointment. The matter has been recorded as a service request and will be dealt with as soon as possible. Q.27 Councillor Chris Andrews To ask the Area Manager the following regarding the development at details supplied: a) Is this site in full compliance with its planning permission? b) Does the site on which the development is taking place match exactly the site for which permission was granted and what are the implications for the planning permission if it is not the case? Dublin City Council does not certify compliance regarding compliance with Planning Permissions granted. If any party is concerned regarding alleged non compliance with permissions granted the correct course of action is to make a complaint outlining the specific concerns relating to non compliance to the Planning Enforcement Section of Dublin City Council. The Enforcement Section will investigate the matter and take enforcement action under the Planning and Development Acts where appropriate. Q.28 Councillor Chris Andrews To ask the Area Manager, given the concerns residents in the areas around Neagh Park have with proposals for the removal of the railings around Neagh Park that is stated in the Parks Development plan to have a consultation process as to whether the removal of the railings is carried out. The removal of the railing around Neagh Road Park was part of an overall master plan drawn up in 2009 by Parks and Landscape Services. This plan was designed in collaboration with residents at that time. At present there is no funding allocated to this project, so there is no immediate plan to remove the railings? If funding is sourced at a later date then further consultation with residents about the realisation of this plan can be undertaken. 21

22 Q.29 Councillor Chris Andrews Are all CCTV cameras working in Dublin City Council s Civic Offices area at the west end of Temple Bar? All Dublin City Council CCTV cameras are working at the moment. Q.30 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue a full report in relation to the ongoing issue of the shrubbery and the reinstatement of the railings at Smock Alley? Generally, there has been positive feedback in relation to the work done in opening up sight lines by the removal of the railings and vegetation. The shrubbery and railings were providing a convenient location for the dumping of used needles and for use as an open toilet. Our concerns were based on the immediate health & safety issues created by the above mentioned problems. The opportunity for a child or person to enter the contaminated area could have had serious consequences. This issue was deemed serious enough to remove these elements as a short term solution. There will be public consultation on the future layout for the space. Q.31 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager initiate an inspection of the façade of Kinley House in Lower Edward Street? There appears to be cracks and subsidence in the main façade of the building. Please see below comment from Dangerous Buildings Inspector, Seamus Phelan, regarding Kinlay House, Protected Structure, 2-12 Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2. This property has been under regular monitoring by DB since The owner has Structural Engineering and Architectural firms employed monitoring this structure also, they have carried out inspections and issued reports on same (which are on file), in the interest of preventing this structure becoming dangerous. Q.32 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager initiate a process to bring about a master plan for the Dublin City Area? The City Development Plan is the Strategic Masterplan for the Dublin City Area. These are 6 year statutory plans which provide an integrated, coherent spatial framework to ensure our city is developed in a way which improves the quality of life for its citizens, whilst also being a more attractive place to visit and work. The current Development Plan ends on November 2016 and the new draft plan ( ) is on public display until 11 th December Q.33 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager facilitate a presentation by Mr. Joe McCarthy with regards the air quality in the South East Area (Poolbeg)? Mr. McCarthy is on the Environment SPC and gave an excellent presentation with regards air quality standards and data analysis. 22

23 This is a matter for the South East Area Committee. Q.34 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue an updated report with regards the relocating of the bring centre and Christmas tree deposit centre at Milltown Car Park? Once again the residents of this location are dreading the Christmas season, as it brings an absolute intolerable noise nuisance and health and safety issues at this present location. There was an indication from management that this centre might be relocated to a less built up area within the area. The bottle banks located in the public car park of Milltown have an established use and have been in place for the past ten years. With so few bottle bank locations in the South East Area these bottle banks play an extremely important recycling role within the local community as evidenced by their high usage. The grounds are maintained on a daily basis and the bottle banks are power washed on a weekly basis by Dublin City Council personnel. In addition, these banks are serviced by the contractor three times every week. These bottle banks will not be relocated from this car park. As previously advised, the car park at Milltown will no longer be used as a Christmas tree drop off point. Signs will be erected outlining the nearest alternative location. However it should be noted that regardless of notices outlining alternative locations, it is most likely trees will continue to be placed at the Milltown site, as this car park has traditionally been a popular Christmas tree collection point. Q.35 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue a full report with regards Dublin City Council s involvement and financial support for the upcoming NYE festival concert at the 3Arena? The New Year s Festival is a 3-day citywide festival celebration of some of the best of contemporary Irish talent in arts, music, culture and live entertainment. The initiative is a partnership between Fáilte Ireland and Dublin City Council. Following a procurement process in 2014 Leisure Project Management Ltd. T/A Holohan Leisure were engaged by Fáilte Ireland to programme and produce the New Year s Festival in accordance with the terms of a legally binding concession agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, which provides for the financial contributions of the funding partners, the contractor bears all the risks and responsibility for the provision of the services and is also entitled to retain any profit arising in the course of provision of the services. Due to the impact of the Luas Cross City Construction works the site at College Green that has been used for the Countdown Concert in recent years is not available this year with the result that the official Countdown Concert will take place in the 3Arena. The Countdown Concert is a commercial venture, therefore, in accordance the terms of the concession agreement no financial contribution will be made by Dublin City Council to that event. At the request of Fáilte Ireland and Dublin City Council plans are underway to programme an additional element to the NYE Festival which will see an outdoor NYE Street Fest taking place in St. Stephen s Green South on New Year s Eve. This event will comprise a variety of musical artists with a 3D projection spectacular 23

24 at midnight. The event will be recorded and televised by RTÉ. In the interests of public safety this will be a ticketed event. Tickets will be at an affordable price and proceeds will be donated to the National Council Blind Ireland, as nominated by Ardmhéara Bhaile Átha Cliath Críona Ní Dhálaigh. The annual cash contribution committed by Dublin City Council is 100,000 which is transferred directly to Fáilte Ireland to fund the festival in accordance with the terms of a memorandum of understanding between Fáilte Ireland and Dublin City Council. This includes a stipulation that Dublin City Council s funding is to be directed towards the elements of the festival programme that are either free to the public, e.g. Procession of Light, Luminosity, Resolution Day or in the case of entry fee charging cultural attractions, result in no additional charge to the public over and above normal entry fees. Full information on the New Year s Festival is available on Q.36 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager write to the walking tour operators that use Bernardo Square and request them to refrain from shouting in the square and loud group cheering when they are taking group photographs and gathering etc.? This is a residential and working area and there have been many complaints to me in relation to the noise nuisance here. The South East Area Office has contacted all walking tour operators known to use Bernardo Square and brought the complaints to their attention. Q.37 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue a full report with regards to any intentions or representations from any organizations or facilities to place medically supervised injection centres in the South East Area? This is a matter for the Health Service Executive. Q.38 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue a report as to whether Dublin City Council is intending or have plans to review and evaluate the DublinTown Company? Dublin City Council engages widely with groups and organisations representing the business sector in the city and will continue to evaluate the benefits of those relationships to maximize the benefits of these partnerships for the city and for the business community. While most relationships with business representative groups are by agreement, Dublin City Council is required to nominate representatives directly to the board of any business improvement district company i.e. Dublin Town under the Local Government (Business Improvement District) Act The board which includes the nominees from Dublin City Council and the Dublin City chief executive is responsible for the performance of the company in accordance with the Companies Act

25 Dublin City Council does intend early in 2016 to carry out a comprehensive study and analysis of our ongoing engagement with business organisations in the city including Dublin Town. We will in due course report back to the councillors. Q.39 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue a full report regarding any plans to alter the monument and drinking fountain at Merrion Park? Recent media reports have indicated that there are designs and plans to make an entrance to this protected structure in order to facilitate more accessibility to the park. This request also would see to view these proposed plans and also the latest plans and layouts for Merrion Square Park. Works are ongoing in relation to implementing the actions of the conservation plan for Merrion Square Park. It is proposed to arrange a meeting on site with the South East Area Committee members in January 2016 to review work carried out to date and to illustrate projects which are being planned for 2016 and beyond. Q.40 Councillor Mannix Flynn Can the Area Manager issue a full report with regards the delays on Crampton Buildings? Many residents had hoped to move back to Crampton Buildings by Christmas. This does not now look possible according to Dublin City Council. What created this delay? The refurbishment works at Crampton Buildings are ongoing. The contractor recently advised that due to complex construction issues that had arisen, works would not be completed before Christmas, as had been envisaged. Residents were contacted directly and informed of this delay and councillors were also updated. A site visit and viewing of the apartments for residents and elected representatives took place on Sunday 6 th December. Direct discussions are continuing with residents with regard to their return to Crampton Buildings, post completion of works early next year. Q.41 Councillor Chris Andrews Will the Area Manager refund the clamp fee given to details supplied given they have permission for driveway? Councillor Dermot Lacey contacted this section on the day this vehicle was clamped. Having investigated the matter a free de-clamp was authorised however *details supplied had paid a few minutes earlier. When Planning Permission was obtained the applicant should have contacted this section to arrange for the removal of the pay and display bay. Arrangements have now been made for the permanent removal of this bay and once an appeal is received *details supplied will be refunded the 80 declamp fee. Q.42 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Chief Executive the cost removing the railings and installing the new granite wall along the Dodder side of Herbert Park. We have no records of the breakdown of Office of Public Works spending on this portion of this project as it does not go through Dublin City Council accounts. 25

26 Q.43 Councillor Dermot Lacey To ask the Chief Executive to indicate the total income received from the organisers of the Food Summit for the use of Herbert Park for circa ten days. Dublin City Council received an amount of 20,350 ( 25, inclusive of 23%) from Dublin Web Summit Limited for the use of Herbert Park for the Food Summit for the dates from 28 th October to 8 th November 2015, which included the set up and pack down period for the event. Q.44 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager to have a litter bin replaced in Seán Moore Park, Ringsend. It had previously been located adjacent to the kissing gate at the junction of Seán Moore Road and Beach Road. The litter bin at this location was being used to dispose of domestic waste and therefore was removed. There is a litter bin at the entrance to Sean Moore Park off Strand Road at the ramp which is considered sufficient for current park user needs and therefore it is not proposed to reinstate the litter bin at the kissing gate. Q.45 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager to have personalised offensive graffiti removed from both sides of the hoarding at the Scouts' Hall, Brookvale Road, Donnybrook. A request has been submitted to have this graffiti removed as soon as possible Q.46 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager what is the status of the request for double yellow lines around the corners at Ramleh Park, Milltown, in the vicinity of number 51, Ramleh Park. The request for double yellow lines around the corners at Ramleh Park is listed with the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Dublin City Council is currently awaiting the filling of a number of vacancies due to a high turnover of engineering staff in the section. Job offers have been made to successful applicants on panels and we are awaiting their acceptance and appointment. For this reason, unfortunately, it is not possible at this time to give a precise date as to when your request will be examined and a recommendation submitted to the Traffic Advisory Group. Q.47 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager to urgently address the issue of a replacement hall door at the following location, details supplied. The door of this dwelling was inspected and categorised as Category B for replacement. 26

27 Category Description A Windows are extensively rotten. Urgent replacement required. Estimated Timeframe 0 to 3 months (approximately, depending on demand) B Partial rot. Senior Citizens. Reduced integrity. 3 to 12 months (approximately, depending on demand) It should be noted that there is a high demand in the 'Category A' list as a result of a backlog due to the change over in categorisation which will require the '0-3 months approximately depending on demand' to be extended for a period until the backlog is cleared. At that point windows/doors in Category B will be commenced. Q.48 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager to address the following issues on Pembroke Street, Irishtown: a) The street is regularly strewn with rubbish which attracts vermin, and dog walkers are not cleaning up their dog excrement. A major clean-up of the street is required. b) Due to the speed at which cars travel, to examine the possibility of having ramps installed on Pembroke Street, Irishtown. There are many children living on this street and it is a serious safety issue. a) Waste Management Services had extra cleaning carried out on Pembroke Street on the 2 nd December b) The request for additional speed ramps on Pembroke Street, Irishtown, has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.49 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager to arrange to have a tree trimmed at the following location, details supplied: The tree at this location has been inspected and has been noted for pruning. It is anticipated that the pruning work will be undertaken over the winter months in the next 6 to 8 weeks. Q.50 Councillor Paddy McCartan To ask the Manager to address the following parking issue on Strand Road, Sandymount, details supplied: The request for parking prohibition outside *details supplied has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.51 Councillor Claire Byrne To ask the Area Manager to please make the following improvements to Pembroke Street: 27

28 a) To increase street cleaning in the area to address the on-going issue of litter on the street. b) To examine the possibility of introducing traffic calming measures to address the ongoing problem with speeding on the street. a) As a residential area, Pembroke Street is scheduled to be cleaned every twelve weeks. However we have some extra cleaning carried out there between scheduled cleanings when necessary. We had extra cleaning carried out on Pembroke Street on the 2 nd December We will continue to do all we can to keep this street as clean as possible. b) The request for additional speed ramps on Pembroke Street, Irishtown, has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.52 Councillor Claire Byrne To ask the Area Manager whether interviews for the new Dublin City Cycling Officer have taken place, whether a candidate has been selected and when the Cycling Officer will commence his or her role. The interviews for the Cycling / Walking Promotions Officer (Temporary) have concluded. The successful candidate has accepted the position and will take up duty on 14 th December Q.53 Councillor Claire Byrne To ask the Area Manager if she can provide a full list of active and inactive district heating systems and combined heat and power systems within the South East Area. Dublin City Council has no combined heat and power systems units within the South East Area. There are no "inactive" district heating schemes. The following details all communal systems in the South East Area (Active). Charlemont Court Rathmines Avenue Court Smock Alley Court Beggars Bush Court Heskin Court Ranelagh Close Q.54 Councillor Claire Byrne To ask the Area Manager if there has been any progress on resolving the issue of parking on Wilfield Avenue, Sandymount and whether Dublin City Council is coming close to reaching a solution on this matter. 28

29 The issues of commuter parking and safety on Wilfield Road have been examined in detail previously. Turning bans, ramps, additional signage, single and double yellow lines have all been considered before. A proposal to introduce pay and display and permit parking on one side of the road, with double yellow lines on the opposite side, was strongly rejected by the residents following ballot in This proposal could not facilitate parking on the road for all the residents because of restrictions in width, but would have opened the possibility for residents of Wilfield to park in the streets adjacent that have controlled parking, subject to availability. The proposed method of controlling parking at this location, rather than prohibiting parking and restricting access, is to have a controlled parking scheme introduced. A scheme could only be introduced if the residents were balloted again and a majority of the residents voted in favour of the scheme. In view of the overwhelming rejection of this scheme previously, any request to re-ballot residents on pay and display and permit parking could only be considered if there is evidence of support by a substantial number of residents. The criteria for the consideration of requests for Pay and Display and Permit Parking Schemes require that written supporting evidence in favour of parking controls be received from 25% of households before the request is referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination. The full criteria are being forwarded to the councillor. Q.55 Councillor Claire Byrne To ask the Area Manager if she can review the parking situation outside details supplied. Councillor Dermot Lacey contacted this section on the day this vehicle was clamped. Having investigated the matter a free de-clamp was authorised however *details supplied had paid a few minutes earlier. When Planning Permission was obtained the applicant should have contacted this section to arrange for the removal of the pay and display bay. Arrangements have now been made for the permanent removal of this bay and once an appeal is received *details supplied will be refunded the 80 declamp fee. Q.56 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether a proper cycling path can be considered for Nutley Lane, Donnybrook. The request for a cycle lane on Nutley lane has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.57 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether some type of deterrent can be put on the ledges above the balconies of flats at Pearse House, Pearse Street, Dublin 2 to stop pigeons from landing and pooing down onto their balconies. 29

30 There are no measures that can be taken to eliminate pigeons resting on or soiling surfaces outside dwellings. There is no deterrent that is successful in preventing pigeons from landing on surfaces. If a substance is painted on one surface then the pigeons will move to the next available surface. Q.58 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether more bins can be put into Ringsend Park. The bin that is there is broken and rubbish congregates around it. There are currently four rubbish bins in the park, one of which is broken and will be removed very shortly. The bins in the park are mainly used for depositing domestic rubbish and dog foul material and it is considered that three bins are sufficient for current requirements. Q.59 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether the bins in Markievicz House, Dublin 2 can be cordoned off to protect them from use by non-residents of Markievicz House and also to prevent smells emanating from them in the summer. The area in question has been examined by the Area Caretaking Manager. Locating the bins to an alternative location will not prevent use by non-residents. Therefore there are no plans to move the present locations of the bins. Q.60 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive to have the ground outside (details provided) levelled as it is a trip hazard for the residents and pedestrians. Road Maintenance inspected the footpath on Townsend Street outside details supplied. The footpath is a concrete footpath, which has a material called Ecoflex laid on top of it. The Ecoflex has lifted in sections. This footpath has been added to our works programme for repair. The Area Maintenance Foreman is making arrangements to inspect this area. Any necessary repairs will be carried out. Q.61 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether the windows at (details provided) can be upgraded as there is a draught coming in. An inspection will be carried out at this dwelling to assess the current windows for any necessary repairs. Q.62 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether any of the new voluntary housing units will be made available in the Harold s Cross, Dublin 6 area. 30

31 Focus Housing Association are providing twenty eight units under the Leasing Initiative for Approved Housing Bodies at Harold s Cross, Dublin 6. Dublin City Council will have 100% nomination rights once the units are completed. Q.63 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether double yellow lines can be put down at the intersection (on the corner) of Greenlea Road and Greenlea Park, Terenure, Dublin 6 as cars are parking on the corner with the road and it is preventing people having sight of the cars coming down and making it difficult for people who are on Greenlea Park to get out onto Greenlea Road. The request for double yellow lines on the corners at the junction of Greenlea Road / Greenlea Park has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.64 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether the tree outside (details provided) can be pruned back as it is overgrown. The tree outside (details supplied) will be pruned over the next 2 weeks. Q.65 Councillor Jim O Callaghan To ask the Chief Executive whether a pedestrian crossing can be put in at the traffic lights on Terenure Road East (just after the turn off to Brighton Road). The request for a pedestrian crossing on Terenure Road East, at the lights just past the Brighton Road junction, has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.66 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager to resolve the following issue with parking at the following location (details supplied): Councillor Dermot Lacey contacted this section on the day this vehicle was clamped. Having investigated the matter a free de-clamp was authorised however *details supplied had paid a few minutes earlier. When planning permission was obtained the applicant should have contacted this section to arrange for the removal of the pay and display bay. Arrangements have now been made for the permanent removal of this bay and once an appeal is received *details supplied will be refunded the 80 declamp fee. Q.67 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager for a full report on safety the Carlisle Street trees, and the recent works done, in light of the recent fall of one of the trees following the replacement of the concrete around the tree with soft tarmacadam. Based on a recent inspection the street trees are generally considered to be in reasonable condition. Trees located outside No s 20 & 25 Carlisle Street are leaning 31

32 and have received some vehicle damage and will be removed subject to local agreement. The use of tarmacadam as a paving material is considered preferable to concrete as it allows for improved access of water and air to the tree roots and reduces incidents of trips resulting from surface lifting. Q.68 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager to inspect the street lamps, the trees and the street bins on Synge Street, Portobello, and to take all redial action as necessary (trimming trees, maintaining and emptying bins, replacing light bulbs). Waste Management Services will ensure that the litter bins on Synge Street are maintained and emptied on a regular basis. The streets trees on Synge Street (22 No. London Planes & 2 No. Elms) have been included in our tree works programme for the area in There is one light (Pole no.7) on this street which is not operating at present. This public lighting standard (Pole no.7) is scheduled to be replaced and a new public lighting column will be installed in place of the existing standard as soon as possible. We have no plans at present for any further improvements to the lighting here. Q.69 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager to address the following two issues on Pembroke Street in Ringsend *details supplied: a) As a residential area, Pembroke Street is scheduled to be cleaned every twelve weeks. However we have some extra cleaning carried out there between scheduled cleanings when necessary. We had extra cleaning carried out on Pembroke Street on the 2 nd December We will continue to do all we can to keep this street as clean as possible. b) The request for additional speed ramps on Pembroke Street, Irishtown, has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.70 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager to give a firm commitment that if the residents of Emorville Avenue or Carlisle Street in Portobello agree to replace the unsuitable fruit trees on their streets, that the council will replace them with suitable trees. Parks Services proposes to remove two fruiting trees at No. 20 & No. 25 Carlisle Street subject to the agreement of local residents. Additional trees may be removed and replaced with non-fruiting species on Carlisle Street and Emorville Avenue over an agreed timeframe with local residents. Local residents should submit in writing, to the undersigned, confirming which trees they wish to have removed. 32

33 Q.71 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager to tackle the following problem with cars parking on the footpath on Strand Road as a matter of priority, given that the Gardaí will not do anything about it (details supplied): A total of one hundred and fifteen vehicles were enforced on Strand Road in the last year. In the same period only eighteen were enforced on Saint John s Road. Of the one hundred and fifteen vehicles enforced on Strand Road, fifty three of these vehicles were relocated. Most of these offences were for parking on a footpath and parking opposite a continuous white line. Twenty vehicles were enforced in October and November, mainly at the location referred to, and all for parking opposite a continuous white line and parking on the footpath. The Council s parking enforcement contractor, Dublin Street Parking Services, has been instructed to continue monitoring this location and to take enforcement action as required. The request for double yellow lines from *details supplied to the junction with St. John s Road has been referred to the Traffic Advisory Group for examination and report. The councillor will be informed of the recommendation in due course. Q.72 Councillor Kieran Binchy To ask the Area Manager to address the following issue in Heskin Court *details supplied: The responsibility for painting and decoration of City Council dwellings lies with the tenant of the dwelling. Housing Maintenance is not in a position to take on this responsibility. The painting of *details supplied will be referred to ''Serve the City'' a voluntary organisation that embarks on this type of work. The Area Housing Officer will call to the tenant in the next few days to examine what is required. Q.73 Councillor Patrick Costello To ask the Manager when the road at Mount Tallant Avenue from Harold s Cross Road to Ashfield Park / Cherry Court, Ashfield Park and the part of Ashdale Avenue from Ashfield Park to Harold s Cross Road was last resurfaced as it is currently in a state of disrepair, and to ask if it can be repaired as soon as possible. Road Maintenance does not have a record of when these roads were last resurfaced. Road Maintenance has inspected the road surface at; 1. Mount Tallant Avenue from Harold s Cross Road to Ashfield Park / Cherry Court, 2. Ashfield Park 3. Ashdale Road (stated Ashdale Avenue in Council Q) from Ashfield Park to Harold s Cross Road. The above road surfaces were considered serviceable with a few potholes. These potholes will be filled. 33

34 Q.74 Councillor Patrick Costello To ask the Manager to improve the lighting on Anna Villa - local residents have complained that it is poorly lit and in need of upgrading or cleaning. There is no public lighting improvements programme for However, Dublin City Council Public Lighting Services are proposing to replace all existing low pressure sodium (orange coloured) lighting with LED lights over the course of the next few years. The existing low pressure sodium lighting here will be included in this replacement programme. Q.75 Councillor Patrick Costello To ask the manager when she will be able to address the following concerns relating to Brighton Square raised by the Brighton Square Residents Association: a) The condition of lampposts around the square, some of which are in a state of disrepair. b) Pavement and road surfaces which appear to need a considerable amount of work. c) The need for integrated street signage some of which is currently damaged. a) The public lighting standards here have been added to a list for inclusion on a future painting programme, subject to finances made available. b) Road Maintenance inspected the footpaths and road in Brighton Square and found them to be serviceable with a few minor defects. Road Maintenance is available to meet one representative of the residents on site and exact locations can be pointed out. A representative of the residents committee can aisling.burke@dublincity.ie to arrange the on-site meeting. c) Clarification was received that the street signage are nameplates. Road Maintenance can discuss this with the residents representative at the onsite meeting. Q.76 Councillor Patrick Costello To ask the Manager to put in cycle lane markings for cyclists looking to go right at the bottom of Harold s Cross Park heading away from the city centre. There are two lanes of traffic here and this can be a difficult move for cyclists. Other such junctions are marked to provide space for cyclists wishing to move to the right. This matter requires investigation and recommendation by an engineer. The Environment and Transportation Department is currently awaiting the filling of a number of vacancies due to the high turnover of engineering staff. Job offers have been made to successful candidates and we are awaiting their acceptance and appointment. Unfortunately, it is not possible to divert resources from other areas without creating severe problems elsewhere. The matter has been recorded as a service request and will be dealt with as soon as possible. 34

35 Q.77 Councillor Claire Byrne To ask the Area Manager to re-surface Drury Street as the road here is in serious disrepair as this would help to improve the public realm in what has now become an attractive shopping street. Road Maintenance has inspected the carriageway of Drury Street. Whilst there are some defects, the road remains serviceable. We will keep this road under review. 35

36 Culture, Recreation and Amenity Department South East Area Office To the Chairperson and Members of the South East Area Committee Environmental Services Unit Report Events TradFest 27 th to 31 st January Draft Litter Management Plan The Draft Litter Management Plan has been advertised for public consultation. Written submissions can be posted to the following: Executive Manager, Waste Management Services, Environment and Transportation Department, Dublin City Council, 68/70 Marrowbone Lane, Dublin 8. Alternatively submissions can be ed to All submissions should be clearly marked Draft Replacement Litter Management Plan and must be received before hours on Friday 12 th February Oral submissions will be facilitated at Waste Management Services, Dublin City Council, Ground Floor, Marrowbone Lane, Dublin 8 on Thursday 21 st January and Thursday 4 th February 2016 between the hours of 10am 1pm and 2pm 5pm. 36

37 Culture, Recreation and Amenity Department South East Area Office To the Chairperson and Members of the South East Area Committee Community Development Section Report Events Tuesday, 5 th January - Let s Walk & Talk. The six weekly walking groups in the South East Area resume after the Christmas break. Please see for details. Date TBC January: Donnybrook Fair Christmas Dinner for Local Older people in Donnybrook area. Friday, 22 nd January - Tour of Chester Beatty Library as Gaeilge. Join our Irish language walking group at 11am at Meeting House Square, Temple Bar for a short walk in the city followed by a tour of the Chester Beatty Library. Date TBC January - Active Retirement Group, St. Pats CYC, Ringsend. Tuesday, 26 th January - Tour of the Mary Aikenhead Centre. Join our Tuesday walking group at 2pm outside the Barge Pub, Charlemont Street for a walk to Harold s Cross and tour of the Mary Aikenhead Centre. Monday, 1 st February - South East Area Allotments. We continue to manage the allotments at Ringsend Park and Herbert Park which has increased the local community s accessibility to gardening. There are thirty-four allotments in Ringsend Park and thirteen allotments in Herbert Park. Licences are due for renewal on 1/2/16. There is currently a long waiting list for new applications. Some improvement works to allotments are also planned this year. Friday, 5 th February - Tour of the Mary Aikenhead Centre as Gaeilge. Join our Irish language walking group at 11am at Meeting House Square, Temple Bar for a walk to Harold s Cross and tour of the Mary Aikenhead Centre. 37

38 Culture, Recreation, Community and Amenity Department South East Area Office To the Chairperson and Members of the South East Area Committee Housing Projects and Local Area Improvements Southern Campshires Flood Protection Scheme The contractor moved on site on 23rd October The works are being carried out by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and various sub-contractors and supervised by various consultants for different aspects of these works. A number of ground condition problems have slowed this project down to date. The estimated cost of this whole project from Butt Bridge to Cardiff Lane is 3.5m and the current programme is to substantially complete the works by Q Grand Canal Sub Group The latest meeting of the Grand Canal Sub-committee was held on 11 th November All councillors were invited. There has been no meeting of the Waterways Ireland Operation Liaison Group (OLG) since September The Chair of the sub-committee has written to the Chief Executive of WI re this. The next meeting of the Grand Canal Sub-committee will be held on January 2016, date TBA. Rathgar Village Improvement Plan The finalised Rathgar Village Improvement Plan (VIP) was approved at the January South East Area Committee. Areas to be addressed in the short-term (2015) include Public Lighting, Village Notice Board, replacement of bollards in village, clean out of woodlands at Herzog Park and creation of plan for park and surrounding lands. Clean out of woodland area is complete and Biodiversity Officer is engaging with Stratford College to initiate a biodiversity project in this area. REDscape, Landscape Architects, has been appointed to carry out plan for Herzog Park and public consultation meeting was held on Wednesday 13th May A further meeting will be held in early 2016 to finalise the redesign. An interim report on VIP implementation for 2015, including costings, was circulated to councillors in October London Bridge Slí na Sláinte The Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) has completed art work for the brochure and map board in conjunction with the Bath Avenue and District Residents Association (BADRA) and arrangements have been made to procure the required signage. IHF are waiting for instruction from BADRA before the Slí na Sláinte can be launched. Sandymount Green Conservation Study Parks Services appointed Howley Hayes Conservation Architects to carry out a Conservation Study of Sandymount Green. As part of the public consultation phase a public meeting was held in Sandymount on 26th November Howley Hayes presented various options to enhance enjoyment and amenity for all users while at the same time ensuring the integrity of the green into the future. The final report was brought to the May South East Area Committee. Parks Services presented the plan to local residents/groups in Sandymount on 38

39 Tuesday 7th July 2015 at Sandymount Hotel. Traffic issues raised at the meeting have been referred to the Roads and Traffic Department for consideration in Community Garden O Carroll Villas A draft licence has been agreed with Care After Prison (CAP) by Development Department and insurance indemnity has been provided by CAP. Development Department has now finalised the licence and an order has been sent to the Law Department to draw up the licence. Works have commenced on the garden supported by Community Section. Ringsend Irishtown Village Improvement Plan Consultation in relation to the Ringsend Irishtown Village Improvement Plan will commence in January Terenure 2030 A meeting will be arranged between South East Area Office and representatives from Terenure 2030 in early 2016 to discuss possible public domain improvements. Grafton Street Quarter The public realm improvement works on Wicklow Street (from Grafton Street to Clarendon Street) and at Johnson s Court are complete, with the exception of the new public lighting which will be installed on building facades shortly. It is hoped, in the coming weeks, to begin the detailed design and subsequent tender process to seek a contractor for the next series of improvement works in the Chatham Street, Harry Street, Balfe Street area with a view to being in a position to commence works towards the end of next year. Also, it is hoped to proceed shortly with a Part 8 planning submission in relation to proposed works at Clarendon Street / Clarendon Row. Crampton Buildings The refurbishment works are ongoing. Unfortunately, due to complex construction issues that had arisen, works were not completed before Christmas, as had been envisaged. Following the site visit and viewing of the apartments by residents, which took place on Sunday 6 th December, direct discussions are continuing with residents with regard to their return to Crampton Buildings, post completion of works. Charlemont / Tom Kelly A sod turning event was organised on the 15 th of December it was well attended and well received in the community. The contractor is on site on the 4 th of January. The Project Office will be liaising with the community and the contractor enabling a clear line of communication between all parties. 39

40 Culture, Recreation & Amenity Department Sport & Recreation Section To the Chairperson and Members of the South East Area Committee South East Area Sport and Recreation Report Sports & Fitness Markievicz refurbishment has fallen behind schedule and will now be complete in the early Sean Mac Dermot street pool will remain open during Markievicz hours until works are completed. Sports & Fitness Irishtown hope to refurbish 5-a-side pitches number 4 & 5 in Change for Life Irishtown: This programme encourages people to exercise, eat healthily and change lifestyle habits. The programme will start in January for 8 weeks and will run in line with the Operation Transformation TV programme. Participants will receive an initial assessment, weekly exercise classes and walks and a weekly weigh in. Along with this they will also receive nutritional advice. It will take place in Sports & Fitness Irishtown in partnership with centre staff. Chair Fit Sandymount: Older Adults that attend the Iris Charles day care centre will take part in chair fit classes once a week. Classes take place every Tuesday from 11.45am 12.45pm in the Iris Charles Centre, starting back on Tuesday 12 th January. This is of huge benefit to the clients as most of them only get out of their house once a week. Walking Group Terenure: A new walking group has been set up in Terenure in partnership with Get Ireland Active and the HSE. The walk will start at the Evergreen Centre in Terenure Village at 11am on Thursday mornings from Thursday 14 th January. Open to all ages. Yoga at Headways: Headways in Donnybrook will take part in yoga classes every Wednesday morning from 10 11am. Participants have acquired brain injury and this class is adapted to suit their needs. Yoga with Mental Health Group: Clients from the Rehab Care centre in Westland Row Square will continue to participate in yoga for relaxation and stretching. Classes take place on Wednesdays from pm in HOPS Rehab Care Centre Pearse Street. This is a great way for the clients to relax and will help them cope with their conditions. Chair Fit Headways: Clients from the Headway Day Care centre in Donnybrook will participate in Chair Fit classes every Thursday morning from 10 11am to help improve mobility and strength. 40

41 Basketball: Two schools in the South East Area will receive an 8 week basketball programme to introduce the children to the skills and give them information on Basketball in their area. The Schools are Harold s Cross National School and Kildare Place Primary School, Rathmines. Rugby: Primary and Secondary school programmes will recommence in January. There will be a Girls Mini Blitz in Old Belvedere on Wednesday 13 th January. Contact details: Rugby: ken.knaggs@leinsterrugby.ie Boxing: michael.carruth@dublincity.ie Cricket: fintan.mcallister@cricketleinster.ie Michelle Malone, Sports Officer: michelle.malone@dublincity.ie John Sweeney, Sports Officer: john.sweeney@dublincity.ie Jamie Dowling, Sports & Fitness Markievicz: jamie.dowling@dublincity.ie Niamh Redmond, Communications Officer: niamh.redmond@dublincity.ie Report by: Niamh Redmond Communications Officer Dublin City Sport & Wellbeing Partnership 41

42 Waste Management Services Environment and Transportation Department To the Chairperson and Members of the South East Area Committee Report on Halloween 2015 In recent years, Dublin City Council (DCC) has adopted a co-ordinated approach to minimise the impact of Halloween activities, specifically with regard to environmental and social consequences of bonfires and illegal fireworks. For Halloween 2015, we again put in place an extensive multi departmental plan to ensure that Halloween was a safe, enjoyable and family friendly period for the people of Dublin. There was very close co-operation between Waste Management, Housing, Area Depts., Parks, Customer Services Centre, Events Unit, Press Office and Dublin Fire Brigade and the Halloween Action Plan was co-ordinated by the Waste Management Division. The DCC Halloween Action Group met on the 5 th and the 22 nd October and there was regular communication between the divisions over the Halloween period:- Key Elements of the Halloween plan included: Safety Campaigns Enforcement activities Cooperation with An Garda Síochána Liaison with local community organisations and representatives Promotion, funding and organisation of diversionary events programmes Out of hours rapid response callout service Safety Campaigns were run by both the Gardaí and Dublin Fire Brigade in schools across the City in the run up to Halloween. Safety messages were also published in the media and on the Dublin City Council website and across social media by Dublin Fire Brigade. Information on safety and removal of stockpiled material was distributed through local safety forums, community forums and by mail shot. Events were held in local areas organised by Community Development staff and in conjunction with the Dublin City Council Events Unit. Events and festivals that have become fixtures on local calendars including Finglas Fright Night and East Wall Fright Fest were joined by successful new additions including the innovative Cauldron of Smithfield which played out across flat complexes in the North West Inner City before culminating in the main Smithfield event on Halloween night. This was hailed locally as a major success by all involved. The Waste Enforcement Unit put in place a number of road checkpoints in co-operation with An Garda Síochána to identify illegal transportation of waste and also carried out waste audits of tyre retail businesses suspected of not being in compliance with waste regulations. Significant efforts were made by teams made up of Area Staff, Housing, Parks and Waste Management staff working in conjunction with local community representatives together with an Garda Síochána to minimise the social and environmental damage created by bonfires and associated activities. 42

43 Teams worked across flat and housing complexes, open green spaces, parks and derelict sites to ensure that these stockpiles were removed. The last stockpiles were removed as late as 9.30 PM on Halloween night. It is conservatively estimated that a minimum of 3,000 tyres were confiscated in the lead up to Halloween night. It is not possible to give an exact figure as mixed loads of materials were removed from many locations at very short notice. Waste tyres stockpiled along Tolka River bank In excess of 750 Tonnes of stockpiled materials was removed during the Halloween period which would have become part of bonfires across the city. Tyres and Pallets stockpiled on derelict site 43