Local Authority News . Vol. 37 . No. 3

FRONT COVER LAN 37 No 3:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:29

Page 1

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

• Home at Last’ Report examines the experience of residents of Dublin city’s Rapid Build Housing Schemes • Government bid to reduce €56m 56m Street Lighting Bill • Irish Water Update

FRONT COVER LAN 37 No 3:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:29

Page 2

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

20/08/2018

13:32

Page 1

CONTENTS Vol 37. No 3.

FEATURES LET'S GET THINGS STRAIGHT (BLUESKY)

Published by:

2

MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT, TOURISM AND SPORT, SHANE ROSS TD AND MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM AND SPORT BRENDAN GRIFFIN TD, LAUNCH “STRATEGY FOR THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF NATIONAL AND REGIONAL GREENWAYS 5 THE INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: PART-TIME PROGRAMMES FOR IRELAND’S PUBLIC SERVANTS 7

GILTRON LTD RIVERVIEW LODGE, DUBLIN ROAD, NAVAN, CO. MEATH. Tel: 00353 46 9072841 Email: info@localauthoritynews.ie Website: www.localauthoritynews.ie

Designed & produced by Donnelly Design & Print Ltd. Tel: 046 - 9091891

FIREBIRD LAUNCH NEW ENVIROGREEN LOW NOX BOILER RANGE 9 HOME AT LAST’ REPORT EXAMINES THE EXPERIENCE OF RESIDENTS OF DUBLIN CITY’S RAPID BUILD HOUSING SCHEMES 10 A RANGE CHAMPIONING INNOVATION AND EFFICIENCY (GRANT) 13

ISSN NO. 1393-0394 GOVERNMENT BID TO REDUCE €56M STREET LIGHTING BILL 15 LAN is available FREE OF CHARGE to all Local and Central Government Bodies throughout Ireland. Published bi-monthly it is disseminated to Local Authority Managers, Assistant Managers, County Secretaries, Finance Officers, Principal Officers, Department Heads, County Engineers, City Engineers, Chief Quantity Surveyors, Senior Architects, Plant Superintendents, Senior Executive Engineers, Town Clerks, Purchasing Officers, Administrative Officers, Inspectors, Park Superintendents, County Librarians, etc. in all Government Departments, County Councils, Corporations, Office of Public Works, Urban District Councils, State-Sponsored and Development Bodies and Agencies.

LIMERICK SECURES €6.5MILLION IN EU FUNDING TO BECOME A ‘SMART POSITIVE ENERGY CITY’ 17 HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITY PUBLISHES 2017 ANNUAL REPORT 20 2018 SET FOR MASSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING EVENT (AQE)

23

REGULARS IRISH WATER UPDATES

25

DEPARTMENT BREIFS

35

CLASSIFIEDS

37

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

1

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:23

Page 2

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:23

Page 3

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:23

Page 4

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

4

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:23

Page 5

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD and Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin TD, have launched the “Strategy for the future development of National and Regional Greenways” on the Old Rail Trail in Moate, County Westmeath.

The Strategy sets out how National and Regional Greenways in Ireland should be planned and constructed and is backed by a fund of €53m for the years 2019 to 2021.

Minister Ross said: “I am delighted to be launching this Strategy in our Hidden Heartlands. That brand, and indeed our other tourism brands all identify activity tourism as a key sector for sustainably growing tourism numbers in Ireland. This Strategy, is, I know, eagerly awaited around the country. People have seen the benefits that have accrued to towns along our Greenways to date, examples such as Newport on the Great Western Greenway, Kilmacthomas on the Waterford Greenway and here in Moate along the Old Rail Trail. Our goal is to replicate the success of those towns and those Greenways in other locations around the country. That is why we are focussing our investment on projects of scale, the common denominator of successful projects to date is that they are in the order of 40km and thus provide the opportunity to overnight in a new area.”

The Strategy sets out the importance of early and widespread consultation with landowners and communities along and adjacent to proposed Greenway routes. The Strategy also emphasises the need to minimise the impact on landholdings by minimising severance as far as possible and providing accommodation works such as fencing and underpasses where required. The Strategy also sets out the importance of access to Scenery and things to See and Do in order to attract tourists.

Minister Brendan Griffin stated: “We are lucky to live in such a beautiful country and Greenways provide an opportunity to experience that beauty up close and at a slow pace. Our Strategy will help us fund the spine of a network of greenways that can, over time, provide links to the rest of the countryside through quiet roads that will prove attractive to many people cycling. I know that Longford County Council is looking to identify a quiet route from the end of the Royal Canal Greenway in Clondra to Athlone, this will provide a wonderful triangular route from Mullingar along the Royal Canal to Clondra and then to Athlone returning to Mullingar on the Old Rail Trail.

Minister Griffin continued: “we must also remember that Greenways are for more than people cycling, statistics from our current Greenways show that in towns such as Moate there are more people walking than cycling and the important health benefits that accrue to users are another huge benefit for our country.”

Minister Ross concluded: “I am looking forward to examining the many worthwhile project proposals that we expect to receive over the coming months under the funding call, and I would urge local authorities and state agencies to consult widely with landowners and communities along proposed routes to bring agreed routes to fruition. This Strategy sets out how that consultation should take place and suggests the components that make for a successful Greenway.”

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

5

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 6

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

6

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 7

The Institute of Public Administration: Part-Time Programmes for Ireland’s Public Servants Adult students who want to return to education must take their busy personal and professional lives into consideration. They require high-quality education programmes that are flexible enough to meet their circumstances. The Whitaker School of Government and Management at the Institute of Public Administration (IPA) will provide almost 70 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes this autumn that do just that.

Flexible Delivery Methods IPA undergraduate programmes have flexible delivery methods that enable students to study at a time and place of their choosing and from anywhere in the country.

Undergraduate Programmes At undergraduate level, programmes include Certificates and Diplomas in Local Government Studies; a Certificate in Housing Studies, a Professional Diploma in Housing Studies; Certificates and Diplomas in Public Procurement; Certificates and Diplomas in Project Management; Diplomas in Law, HRM and Management; Professional Diplomas in Health Economics and Official Statistics for Policy Evaluation; and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in Public Management.

Postgraduate Programmes At postgraduate level, the IPA offers a suite of MA programmes in public management, which includes a specialised stream in local government management.

The MA programmes—delivered through blended learning—combine study of various subjects with the preparation of a dissertation. Other postgraduate programmes include a Professional Certificate in Governance, an MEconSc in Policy Analysis, and a Doctorate in Governance.

For further information about IPA programmes, visit www.ipa.ie or call (01) 2403600.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

7

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 8

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 9

FIREBIRD LAUNCH NEW ENVIROGREEN LOW NOX BOILER RANGE ndustry frontrunners Firebird have launched an exciting new range of Low NOx oil-fired boilers ahead of the second phase of the Ecodesign Directive. The Envirogreen range features a cutting-edge low NOx burner designed in conjunction with European burner experts elco, which is easily installed, commissioned and serviced using a single Allen Key. Boasting technological superiority, the incorporation of the Firebird by elco burner solves the many operational problems that are currently being experienced within the industry. Offering unbeatable reliability due to the absence of error-prone parts, the highly efficient Envirogreen range includes models for internal and external applications in a variety of outputs. Backed by PCDB listed performance data, the Envirogreen boiler looks set to become the first choice for installers and homeowners alike - and all without any associated price premium.

I

The trouble-free plug and play burner, which requires only two settings for pump and air pressure makes installation a breeze. To ensure the highest level of efficiency is achieved by the burner, the CO2 level is factory-set at optimum 12.5%. Should this need to be adjusted for any reason, the CO2 level settings are printed on the burner casing which acts as a handy reference guide. With an easily operated Firebird digital control box and a simple diagnostic system, installation really couldn’t be more straightforward.

Commenting on the launch of the new Envirogreen range of boilers, Mark Doyle, General Manager of Firebird Heating Solutions Ltd said: “The launch of this new low NOx range with its cutting-edge burner technology underlines Firebird’s ongoing commitment to provide the industry with innovative, environmentally-friendly, yet practical heating solutions. The Envirogreen range not only offers outstanding reliability, but solves a problem that the heating industry has struggled to address - to find a reliable and cost-effective low NOx alternative to the yellow flame burner.’

The Ecodesign Directive is a European initiative put in place which governs the design and performance of energy using products, to reduce the amount of energy consumed and the subsequent impact on the environment. New requirements on flue gas emissions state that from September 2018, harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from domestic oil boilers must not exceed 120mg/kWh. Nitrogen Oxide emissions – or NOx emissions as they are more commonly known are released into the atmosphere when fossil fuels are burned.

Featuring multi-directional flue options for ease of installation, all Firebird boilers provide a lowmaintenance option due to the long life of serviceable components. Firebird specialise in providing a total heating package solution which includes oil-fired boilers, air source heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal systems.

Firebird’s new envirogreen range features a cutting-edge low NOx burner designed in conjunction with european burner experts elco.

For further information on the new Envirogreen range please visit

www.firebird.ie or contact Firebird Heating Solutions

Tel: 026 45253

Email: sales@firebird.ie LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

9

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 10

Home at Last’ Report examines the experience of residents of Dublin city’s Rapid Build Housing Schemes Report outlines attitudes towards Rapid Build schemes and the challenges faced by homeless Report outlines attitudes towards Rapid Build schemes and the challenges faced by homeless ‘Home at Last – the Experience of Rapid Build Housing in Dublin’’, a report investigating the Rapid Build strategy from the perspective of its residents, was launched today as part of the Dublin Housing Observatory (DHO) and its research symposium on ‘Housing and Home’. Commissioned by Dublin City Council (DCC) and conducted by Dr Mel Nowicki, Prof. Katherine Brickell and Dr Ella Harris of Royal Holloway University of London, the report considers the effects of precarious housing situations and the experiences of moving to permanent Rapid Build accommodation.

Based on in-depth interviews with 21 Rapid Build residents from Ballymun and Finglas in late 2017, five headline findings were identified as key compo-nents in alleviating the current housing crisis: 1. The provision of high-quality, secure and permanent social housing through the Rapid Build scheme is a significant means of addressing housing exclusion, with the potential of effective up-scaling to help many more families in need.

2. The report notes the private rental sector’s major role in creating home-lessness, particularly the reluctance from landlords to engage with Rent Supplement (RS) and Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) recipients.

3. Whilst the authors acknowledge the need to improve suitability and standards in interim and emergency accommodation, they argue that levels of homelessness are unlikely to decrease unless measures and reforms to reduce the insecurity of the private rented sector and to in-crease the quantity of permanent social housing solutions are imple-mented.

4. ‘User-led’ approaches to designing and delivering public housing provi-sion need to be prioritised, with the inclusion of Rapid Build residents, to inform housing policymakers and professional stakeholders.

5. Improvement is needed regarding the level of dialogue among resi-dents, policymakers, media and the wider public to challenge stigma surrounding homelessness.

Speaking at the research symposium, Dr Mel Nowicki said, “While today’s re-port, again, points to problems in the private rental sector and family break-down as major factors creating Dublin’s homelessness, it also notes the range of detrimental effects the experience of homeless has on a person’s physical and mental health. Residents in emergency accommodation are ex-periencing shame, anxiety and depression, while some participants have de-scribed severe delays in young children’s development.”

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

10

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 11

She continued, “A strong stigma is also felt by many as they face accusations of ‘cheating the system’ or substance abuse, with the assumption that they are to blame for their situation. In addition to some reports of being forced to use separate hotel entrances, residents often coped by avoiding social con-tact and become isolated, further damaging their mental health.”

Co-author, Prof. Katherine Brickell said, “Understandably, residents had dif-fering views on moving to other areas, with some welcoming a new start and others feeling a sense of trepidation. Overall, residents were extremely posi-tive about the Rapid Build housing schemes and highlighted the size and quality of their new homes, but voiced concerns over the long-term quality of this new housing type. The report shows a desire for residents to blend into the community, and linked to this, an aversion to being characterised by the traditional thought of prefab accommodation.”

Dr Ella Harris said, “The report launched today offers evidence of the strong impact the Rapid Build schemes can have on the Dublin housing crisis. Going forward, it is important to continue research into building quality, as well as residents’ experiences over time, to further develop the scheme and ulti-mately better benefit the residents it supports. Rapid Build developments should continue to prioritise those in most need and focus delivering perma-nent tenancies.”

Dr Dáithí Downey, Head of Housing Policy Research and Development with Dublin City Council, said, “While almost daily reports continue to relay the ex-tent of homelessness in Dublin, this report commissioned by Dublin City Council rightly puts the voice of the people affected to the fore and ensures we can better understand the lived experience of homelessness and what works to end it by providing quality, affordable housing. All of the things we value about public housing are brought back into focus by Home At Last. It is about making places for people, about ensuring we have a high quality hous-ing service for our tenants and providing leadership on keeping Dublin a great city to live in. With the valued input of these families in helping us better un-derstand the role of housing as the pathway out of homelessness and hous-ing insecurity, we aim to improve our Rapid Build schemes and to scale up them up as part of Dublin city’s overall housing programme.”

The ‘Home at Last – the experience of Rapid Building Housing in Dublin’ Report was commissioned by Dublin City Council and was launched as part of the Dublin Housing Observatory meeting, which took place on Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th July in Wood Quay Venue.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

11

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 12

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 13

A range championing innovation and efficiency Renowned for its commitment to providing the plumbing and heating industry with many of the best heating appliances on the market, heating manufacturer Grant is leading the way with its range of highly efficient Aerona3 air source heat pumps (ASHP).

Spanning over 40 years, Grant has been heating properties across Ireland with its diversified range of heating solutions, from the range of award-winning Vortex condensing oil boilers, to the forward-thinking VortexAir Hybrid and range of Aerona3 ASHPs, which are proving to be incredibly popular with those wishing to reduce their carbon footprint.

Allowing greater choice for the end user, Grant designed the Aerona3 ASHP to be available in three single phase units of 6kW, 10kW and 16kW, meaning that the model can be matched closely to the size of property to ensure optimum efficiency. Using the basic conversion of thermal energy in the air into heat energy that can be used for both heat and hot water, the Aerona3 ASHP champions exceptional efficiency, delivering over four times the amount of energy for every 1kW of energy used. These market-leading heat pumps also have a superior seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP) even if temperatures outside were to drop as low as -20°C. With an impressive ErP rating of A++, the Aerona3 ASHP range incorporates a number of clever features that make it a convenient and reliable heating appliance for both homeowners and installers. With an MCS seal of approval, the range not only delivers greener home heating for homeowners but is also incredibly userfriendly for engineers to install and maintain. Each unit comes with flexi hoses, valves, controller and a builtin circulating pump as standard factory-fitted components which help installers save time on site.

The Aerona3 ASHP is also compact in size and is perfect for installations where space is at a premium. Whilst small in size, each unit presents a range of benefits to the end user including greater operating efficiencies at lower external temperatures, larger outputs to match the type of property encountered, and reduced operational noise levels. Alongside its renewable offerings, the Aerona3 ASHP is ideal for those completing new build projects as it helps achieve Part L compliance as outlined in building regulations.

Grant Aerona3 range 6kW, 10kW & 16kW.

Reflecting the popularity of the Aerona3 ASHP, Grant recently launched a new dedicated website which highlights key features of the range, technical manuals and information on free heat loss calculations offered by the Grant Technical Team which help customers size the right unit for their property. For more information visit www.grantheatpumps.com.

This year the Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland (SEAI) introduced a new grant of up to €3,500 to support those wishing to incorporate the air source heat pump technology into their property – for more information visit www.seai.ie.

For more information on Grant’s range of heating products visit www.grant.eu LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

13

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 14

045 988533 087 2842830 Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare

info@firstchoicecommercials.ie

ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTING SOLUTIONS FREE LIGHTING AUDITS

• Examine current lighting and propose an improved energy efficient solution

FREE ENERGY AUDITS

•

Identify methods of reducing long-term operating costs

LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICE

•

2 Full time in-house lighting design employees using Lighting Reality, Relux & Dialux software

CARBON CREDIT PAYMENTS

•

Offer top rates of carbon credit payments Partnership with a leading energy provider

Lighting Specialists contact us Paul Scannell – paul.scannell@rexel.ie – 086-8049464 Damien Cullen – damien.cullen@rexel.ie - 087-7410010 Gavin Fox – gavin.fox@rexel.ie – 087-3468424 Mike Devine – mike.devine@rexel.ie – 086-8545660

www.kellihers.com

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

14

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 15

Government bid to reduce €56m Street Lighting Bill Almost half a million public lights across the country - some of them 40 years old - are to be upgraded with energy saving light bulbs as the Government bids to cut their annual cost of €56m.

Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Denis Naughten briefed his ministerial colleagues on the plan at last week's Cabinet meeting.

In 2009, the Government set a national target for Ireland to improve energy efficiency by 20% by 2020. A higher target of 33% was set for the public sector to demonstrate leadership in the area of energy efficiency.

There are 480,000 public lamps across the country and they account for €56m in energy expenditure every year. As this amounts to half of the energy consumption of the 31 local authorities, Minister Naughten told Cabinet that it is crucial they are updated to energy efficient bulbs.

As parts of the public lighting network are over 40 years old, it is estimated that replacing bulbs with low energy equipment would see local authorities halve their €56m annual lighting costs.

The Government has set aside €9m this year to contribute to the upgrade of the national public lighting network.

Minister Naughten updated the Government on the progress of the Public Sector Energy Efficiency Strategy. €750m has been allocated to a retrofit programme for the public sector, where the focus is on areas such as public lighting, schools, hospitals and government buildings.

Energy upgrades have taken place in ten schools to-date, resulting in energy savings of 40-60%. School closures, which would have arisen due to broken heating systems with old radiators, have been avoided.

Acute hospitals are among the biggest energy users in the public sector. The Cabinet was also briefed on a Health Service Executive initiative for a major energy efficiency upgrade of the Mater Hospital in Dublin.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

15

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

20/08/2018

13:34

Page 16

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

16

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 17

Limerick secures €6.5million in EU funding to become a ‘Smart Positive Energy City’ Limerick has been awarded a substantial grant in the biggest EU Research and Innovation Funding programme, Horizon 2020, for a smart cities and communities project worth €6.5m to the city. The +CityxChange (positive city exchange) is a smart city project submitted by a consortium of 32 partners including Limerick City and County Council from 11 countries. The fullscale project will receive €20 million in funding from Horizon 2020 which has nearly €80 billion of funding available over 7 years.

For the next five years, Limerick City along with the city of Trondheim in Norway will work with five other follower cities, Alba Iulia (Romania), Pisek (Czech Republic), Sestao (Spain), Smolyan (Bulgaria) and Voru (Estonia) to develop together through citizen engagement a series of demonstration projects on how to become smart positive energy cities. Together with all of their citizens, they will develop solutions that will help generate more energy than they consume, and exchange experiences with cities across Europe to learn faster, together. University of Limerick is a strategic partner to the city on this initiative.

By winning the grant, Limerick will become the first Irish ‘Lighthouse Smart City’ – Lighthouse cities are ones that develop and tests integrated innovative solutions at district scale and act as exemplars for their region and other cities and regions across Europe.

Limerick is the only Irish city to ever receive this prestigious award and €6.5m of the overall funding will go directly to Limerick and its partners.

“A smart city is a place where its infrastructure and services are made more efficient with the use of Digital and ICT technologies for the benefit of its inhabitants and business. The +CityxChange is another major step forward as part of our Digital Strategy for Limerick to become a Smart City Region that is ready for the new energy market and increased use of clean energy for sustainable development of our communities. We aim to demonstrate at European level the potential of our innovation ecosystem existent in Limerick and Ireland,”

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

17

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 18

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 19

said Dr. Mihai Bilauca, Head of Digital Strategy, Limerick City and County Council. “Winning this grant proposal was only possible due to the spirit of partnership and collaboration so evident in Limerick. It is our key strength!”

The focus in Limerick will be on the development of a new “community grid” and the use of smart meters, innovation in new energy sources (including hydrokinetic energy) and storage, digital tools and citizen participation to create what is called a ‘Positive Energy District’ in Limerick city centre, starting with the Gardens International building and ENGINE training and workspace provided by Innovate Limerick. A Positive Energy District is one that contributes more energy than it consumes.

Limerick’s demonstration project will be centred in the Georgian Innovation district in the city centre (Georgian/Newtown Pery areas). The project will be led by Limerick City and County Council and Trondheim Kommune (Norway) and hosted by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). The Irish partners include the Limerick Clare Energy Agency, Innovate Limerick, University of Limerick, IES R&D, Smart MPower, ESB Innovation and ESB Networks, Space Engagers, GKinetic Energy Ltd, Future Analytics Consulting.

In its evaluation, the European Commission commended the Limerick +CityxChange proposal for demonstrating and substantiating actions that will contribute to the wide scale roll out of Positive Energy Districts across Europe. The Commission commended the Limerick led project’s convincing approach to make local governments an active and integral part of the energy solution and engage citizens in the city’s transformation. The project includes the development of a framework and supporting tools to enable a common energy market. This market will be supported by a ‘connected community’ using digital technologies for collaboration, to reduce energy costs and resource consumption and to engage more effectively and actively with its citizens.

Rosie Webb, Lighthouse City Leader, Limerick City and County Council said: “This is an outstanding opportunity for Limerick to lead at an international level on the creation of positive energy areas. The Georgian Innovation District will enable us to co-create the future we want to live in. This can only happen with the active participation of citizens and by working closely with the University, industry partners and local businesses. In Limerick we will specifically look at adapting our historic city centre to enable citizens to play a key role in this new sharing and exchange model of energy consumption. We will then be in a position to exchange our experience with cities across Europe.”

Dr Stephen Kinsella, Kemmy Business School, UL who is a UL Lead on the project said: “The project demonstrates the University’s commitment to the city and to its economic and social future, in partnership with the City and County Council. Limerick is Ireland’s first lighthouse city. The project is an opportunity to show that we can deliver new solutions and actually put them into action in Limerick, first.

Contract negotiations will now begin between Limerick and its partners and the project is set to begin in 2019. The final two years involve monitoring and evaluation.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

19

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 20

Health and Safety Authority publishes 2017 Annual Report The Health and Safety Authority uses information and advice as a primary method of achieving compliance.

It also provides free resources to enable enterprises manage their employees’ safety and health.

During 2017 the free online safety tool for small businesses, BeSMART.ie, added a further 8,500 new users.

Over 30 industry specific guidance documents were published with approximately 360,000 publications downloaded from the HSA website.

Almost 25,000 students at post-primary and further education participated in the ‘Choose Safety’ programme and 17,750 courses were taken on the Authority’s eLearning portal.

In anticipation of the UK Exit from the EU in 2019, advice was provided to companies on the implications for chemicals supply chains.

Protecting workers and consumers through enforcement Last year the Authority completed a total of 9,934 inspections and investigations. There were almost 2,000 farm inspections and investigations and over 4,400 carried out in the construction sector. Inspectors issued 512 improvement notices and 547 prohibition notices after serious breaches were found. A total of 21 prosecutions were successfully concluded, resulting in fines of over €2.6m.

As well as protecting workers the Authority plays a key role in protecting consumers. There were 400 market surveillance checks of chemical products on the Irish market, including 200 on detergents to address concerns for consumer safety.

Accreditation The Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB) saw increased applications for accreditation in areas that will be affected by the UK exit from the EU. There were 294 site assessment visits completed with 302 decisions taken to maintain and extend accreditation. Also, 21 new applications for accreditation were awarded by the INAB Board.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

20

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 21

Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen TD said: “Tragically 47 people lost their lives due to work activity in 2017 with the farming sector yet again recording the highest fatality rate with 24 deaths. I, through my Department, work closely with the HSA and I know the Authority is working with all sectors, including farming, to promote the benefits of strong health and safety practices. This approach achieves positive results in other sectors and while awareness is high in the farming sector there are still far too many accidents occurring.

The best way to prevent accidents is to encourage employers to take their responsibilities seriously and to assist workers in identifying hazards. Whether on a farm, in a factory or on a fishing boat it is the workers and those supervising the work that are best positioned to make the right decisions in relation to safety, health and welfare.”

Dr Sharon McGuinness, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority said: “A key part of our remit is to foster a culture of prevention, we do this by encouraging employers and employees to work together, to take ownership of safety and health in their workplaces and achieve positive results. We are also committed to providing businesses and enterprises with high levels of advice and support in areas like accreditation and chemical and product legislation. This is to enable them to grow their business and prepare for future impacts such as Brexit.

It is also important for us to balance this support by targeting areas where the risks of accidents or fatalities are high. Last year we implemented strong inspection and awareness campaigns. These campaigns focussed on areas such as safety around vehicles and machinery and health effects arising from stress, poor manual handling and exposure to chemicals.”

Tom Coughlan, Chairman of the Health and Safety Authority said: “Increased economic activity and employment brings new challenges. We monitor closely how the work environment is changing and the effect these changes are having on work-related hazards. Therefore to deliver on our mandate of safe and healthy workplaces we focus on emerging and existing risks. In doing this we deliver the best outcomes for workers and the enterprises employing them.”

The 2017 Annual Report is available at www.hsa.ie.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

21

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 22

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

22

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 23

2018 set for massive Environmental Monitoring Event This year, two of the world’s largest environmental monitoring events will take place in the same place and at the same time – Telford, November 21st and 22nd. WWEM 2018 will be the eighth in a series that began in 2005, and AQE 2018 will be the tenth in a series that began in 2002.

As specialist events focusing on the regulations, Standards, methods and technologies in environmental monitoring, enormous synergy is created by running them together.

The WWEM (Water Wastewater & Environmental Monitoring) events have grown year on year, and AQE (Air Quality & Emissions) has expanded beyond recognition.

“Many of the delegates for these events work in both emissions to air and wastewater, so this will be great news for them,” comments organiser Marcus Pattison.

“However, and it’s a big however, these events are feverishly busy; each with a packed workshop programme running alongside a conference, all of which is CPD accredited, so the need for delegates to plan their visit is even greater than usual.

“Visitors will need to study the conference and workshop programmes on the two event websites, and plan their time accordingly. In all likelihood, this will necessitate coming on both days to make the most of the conferences, workshops and both international exhibitions.”

Anyone planning to attend should register at www.ilmexhibitions.com. By registering, visitors will be eligible for free parking and refreshments, as well as free entry to both exhibitions and all workshops. The exhibitions will feature over 230 companies representing more than 400 manufacturers, and there will be a total of over 140 free technical workshops to choose from.

In addition to the updates on regulations that will be provided by many of the conference speakers, each exhibition will feature a ‘Regulators Stand’ providing help and advice from the regulators of England, Wales, Scotland, Northern and Southern Ireland.

The WWEM 2018 Conference programme is being developed and supported by leading associations including SWIG (Sensors for Water Interest Group), the Pump Centre, WRc, CIWEM, BMSS, PROFIBUS, CoGDEM, GAMBICA, WIPAC (Water Industry Process Automation and Control) and the RSC (Water Science Forum & Separation Science Groups). Consequently, conference delegates can be assured of high quality, topical content.

With air quality experiencing extremely high levels of global political and media interest, and with Brexit looming at a time when the UK Government has suffered repeated losses in Court, the timing of AQE 2018 could not be better. Debate is intensifying around the measures that must be taken to address air pollution, and monitoring has a key role to play.

The content of the AQE 2018 Conference is therefore being developed in association with the STA (Source testing Association), EPUK (Environmental Protection UK), the REA (Renewable Energy Association), the CEA (Combustion Engineering Association) and IAPSC (Investigation of Air Pollution Standing Conference).

Both AQE 2018 and WWEM 2018 will take place at the Telford International Centre, (UK) which benefits from a number of local hotels. However, with a high proportion of visitors likely to attend over both days, the organisers are recommending early booking.

For more information contact: info@ilmexhibitions.com LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

23

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 24

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

24

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 25

Irish Water investing €14m in upgrade of Bandon Wastewater Treatment Plant Irish Water, in partnership with Cork County Council, is investing €14 million to upgrade the Bandon Wastewater Treatment Plant. This project will help improve water quality in the Bandon River and alleviate flooding in low lying parts of the town.

The Bandon Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Project will provide enhanced treatment of wastewater from the town, ensuring that discharges from the plant comply with environmental legislation. This will result in improvements to water quality in the Bandon River, protecting aquatic life and bringing health and environmental benefits to the entire community.

Construction of new pumping station will alleviate flood risk Bandon also has a history of flooding as a result of high flows in the Bandon River exceeding the channel capacity. The construction of a new storm pumping station as part of the upgrade works will help alleviate this potential flood risk for low-lying areas in the Bandon catchment.

Contract has been signed by the EPS to carry out the works A contract has been signed with EPS to carry out the work, which will involve upgrades at the treatment plant and at the Glasslinn Road Pumping Station.

The project will involve the installation of new equipment at the treatment plant, along with new pipelines, stormwater storage tank, odour treatment facilities, an electrical substation and other ancillary site works. In addition, new wastewater and stormwater pumping stations will be installed at Glasslinn Pumping Station, along with new pipelines, generator, control buildings and an electrical substation.

Mark Murray, Irish Water’s Infrastructure Programme Manager, commented: “This project will ensure that there is adequate treatment capacity within the plant to meet the needs of the area and facilitate social and economic growth.

Cleaner water will enhance the river’s amenity value and act as a platform for social and economic development.

It will also ensure that there is effective management of the wastewater treatment process to protect the environment and public health.”

Works will begin in the coming weeks The work is due to get underway in the coming weeks and are expected to take approximately 20 months in total. The works will predominately take place on Mill Road and along the N71 Cork Road. During the works traffic management will be in place but local access will be maintained at all times. A road closure may be required for a short time to ensure that the work is carried out in the safest way possible along Mill Road and the N71 (Cork Road).

During the works it may also be necessary to restrict access to parking along Mill Road. In order to minimise disruption to traffic works may be carried out in some sections in the evening, at night or at the weekends due to the requirements of An Gardaí Síochána and/or the Roads Authority.

Local community will be notified in advance of planned works The Project Team will notify the local community in advance of planned works in their areas and provide contact details should they have any queries. We will work closely with the local community to minimise any potential disruption and with An Garda Síochána to manage traffic while the works are underway.

For more information and additional advice, please call Irish Water’s 24-hour customer care helpline on 1850 278 278 or log onto www.water.ie.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

25

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 26

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

26

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 27

Compulsory Purchase Order submitted to upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Carrickmacross Purchase of lands in Annacroff to facilitate upgrades to the wastewater infrastructure Irish Water has submitted a notice of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to An Bord Pleanála for the purchase of lands in Annacroff to facilitate upgrades to the wastewater infrastructure in Carrickmacross, County Monaghan.

Works will commence at the end of 2019.

If the CPO is approved it is expected that works will commence at the end of 2019 and will be completed by early 2021.

Commenting on the proposed works Colm Boyd, Irish Water’s Infrastructure Programme Regional Lead said: “Some of the important benefits of this project are that it will facilitate future population growth and economic development in the area. The improvements to the treatment plant will also ensure that the water quality in the receiving waters is improved which is a very positive development.”

What will the proposed works include?

The proposed works include upgrades to the existing wastewater treatment plant and construction of a new outfall pipe which when completed will improve treatment quality and ensure compliance with the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive and EPA Wastewater Discharge Licencing. It is planned to relocate the existing outfall from Proules River to the Longfield River by laying a 3.3km outfall pipe.

Other works in this proposed project include the construction of a new entrance from the Oriel Road to the wastewater treatment plant, construction of a new inlet pumping station, upgrade of the existing inlet works, and the replacement of outdated mechanical and electrical equipment with modern, energy efficient equipment.

Works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues This project forms part of Irish Water’s investment plan. Works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Water’s Business Plan. Delivery of the business plan will involve a 5.5 billion investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.

To find out more about our upgrade projects taking place across the country, visit our Projects and Plans page at www.water.ie

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

27

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 28

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 29

Irish Water to develop Drainage Area Plans in Galway Improving wastewater network performance, protecting waterways and planning for future population growth and economic development will help improve Galway water supply Irish Water is investing 2.3 million to develop Drainage Area Plans for Galway City including Barna and Oranmore which feed into the Galway City network, which will help to improve the performance of the wastewater network, protect the environment and facilitate social and economic development over the coming years.

Contracts have been signed by the utility and RPS Contracts have recently been signed by the utility and RPS Environmental Management Ltd to carry out extensive surveying and mapping of the existing wastewater treatment network in these areas. Parts of the network are very old – dating back to the start of the last century – and much of it has never been mapped previously. Ryan Hanley are acting as Employer’s Representative on the project on behalf of Irish Water.

The information gathered from this project will enable us to identify areas where urgent repair or upgrade work is required and to effectively plan its investment in the wastewater treatment network so that maximum value for money can be achieved while also protecting the environment, preventing sewer flooding and facilitating future population and economic growth.

Works will involve using CCTV to survey and assess The works will involve using CCTV to survey and assess the condition of over 42km of sewers, mapping an estimated 2,000 manholes, and monitoring the wastewater and rainwater flows in the network.

The surveys, which will get underway in August 2018, will be focussed on key areas such as flooding locations, pumping stations and wastewater treatment plants, areas of predicted future growth and locations experiencing operational issues at present.

Eunan Canavan, Capital Programmes Regional Lead with Irish Water, commented: “This work is part of Irish Water’s commitment to protecting Ireland’s waterways and coastal areas and ensuring that the wastewater infrastructure is in place to support population growth and economic development. Much of the sewer network is in poor condition due to its age and decades of under-investment. In addition, only a small portion of it has been accurately mapped and assessed to determine its condition.

“Data gathered from this project will allow us to improve the wastewater treatment network across Galway by identifying the areas most urgently in need of upgrading and allowing us to plan our investment so that we can meet the needs of these Galway communities now and into the future.”

Works have been prioritised to address critical issues This project forms part of our investment plan. Works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Water’s Business Plan. Delivery of the business plan will involve a €5.5 billion investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.

For more information or to find out what we're doing in your area, explore our Projects and Plans page at www.water.ie LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

29

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 30

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

30

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 31

Official opening of new Kenmare Water Treatment Plant to provide safe, secure supply of water to over 2,000 people

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy performs official opening A safer and more reliable water supply for community Irish Water and Kerry County Council today marked the official opening of the Kenmare Water Treatment Plant, following a 5m upgrade to improve treatment facilities and ensure a clean, secure water supply for the local community.

Over 2,000 people in Kenmare and the surrounding areas will benefit from a safer and more reliable water supply as a result of this investment.

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy performed the official opening at the plant in the company of Cllr Norma Foley, Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council; Moira Murrell, Chief Executive of Kerry County Council, Irish Water representatives and special guests.

Project provides comprehensive treatment facilities including cryptosporidium barrier This completed project provides comprehensive treatment facilities, including a cryptosporidium barrier which will provide safe drinking water to the residents of Kenmare. This ensures that the necessary infrastructure is in place so that Kenmare’s water supply is in compliance with the requirements set out in the European Union Drinking Water Directive.

The project also provides 24 hours reservoir storage capacity for Kenmare which enhances the security of supply.

It is expected that project will facilitate the removal of supply from RAL Due to deficiencies in the treatment process at the old plant, Kenmare has been included on the EPA’s Remedial Action List (RAL). It is expected that the completion of this project will facilitate the removal of the supply from the RAL. Speaking at the official opening, Minister Eoghan Murphy, said “I am pleased to be here in Kenmare today for the official opening of this vital piece of water infrastructure. Kenmare is rightly regarded as one of Ireland’s top tourism destinations and providing a secure supply of clean, safe drinking water for local residents and visitors to the area is essential to the quality of life and development potential of the area. This investment in water infrastructure brings very significant benefits to this community now and into the future.”

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

31

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 32

Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Norma Foley said “I welcome this investment by Irish Water in Kenmare which will ensure that town has a safe, secure and reliable water supply. The completion of this project should facilitate the removal of the Kenmare supply from the EPA’s Remedial Action List and give assurance to local people and visitors alike that the drinking water here is of the highest quality.”

Gerry O’Donnell, Infrastructure Programme Manager with Irish Water, commented “We are delighted to officially open the new water treatment plant here in Kenmare. This upgrade of the plant was necessary to address the water treatment issues and ensure a secure and sustainable supply of quality drinking water for the local community.

“This project represents an investment of €5m by Irish Water in the Kenmare area. This is part of Irish Water’s commitment to improving water quality throughout the country that has seen the number of supplies on the EPA’s Remedial Action List reduced from 99 in 2016 to 77 at the end of 2017. This is one of a number of very significant projects in that have been completed or are near completion in Kerry, including new €30m Lough Guitane Water Treatment Plant which will provide a safer, more reliable water supply for more than 60,000 people in the Killarney area.”

Planning application submitted for Spiddal Wastewater Treatment plant Project will end the discharge of untreated wastewater to Galway Bay Irish Water has submitted a planning application to Galway County Council for the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant at the site of the existing Údarás na Gaeltacha wastewater treatment plant in Spiddal. The new plant will serve a population equivalent of 1,000 people to accommodate an increase in the local population and facilitate future growth in the area. Once operation the plant will enhance Spiddal’s amenity value by acting as a platform for social and economic development.

What does the planning application include?

The application includes a new below-ground pumping station including pumps, mechanical plant and a storm water storage tank located in the green area in front of the Craft Village with a rising main to the new wastewater treatment plant; a pipeline to bring untreated wastewater to the new wastewater treatment plant; and a new treated wastewater pipeline to discharge treated wastewater from the new wastewater treatment plant to the existing marine outfall.

If granted, the new plant will end the discharge of untreated wastewater to Galway Bay by ensuring all wastewater receives appropriate treatment. This unacceptable practice is unsustainable and threatens water quality as well as the amenity value of the coastal waters around Spiddal. A functioning modern wastewater treatment plant does not produce any notable noise or odours.

At an information event in April, Irish Water unveiled its plans to stop the discharge of the equivalent of 600 wheelie bins of untreated wastewater into Galway Bay each day.

Improved water quality The provision of wastewater treatment for Spiddal will mean improved water quality of bathing waters at Trá na mBan and Céibh na Spidéil. The project will assist with ensuring that the water quality standards set out in relevant legislation will be achieved.

You can contact our customer care helpline on 1850 278 278 or email GalwayUWW@water.ie if you have any queries or would like to report any issues during construction.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

32

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:24

Page 33

Subject to planning permission being granted, works on this necessary project could commence in 2019 with a completion date expected in 2021.

This project forms part of Irish Water’s investment plan. Works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Water’s Business Plan. Delivery of the business plan will involve a €5.5 billion investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.

Our Projects and Plans For more information on how we are improving our water and wastewater network aross the country, visit our Projects and Plans page at www.water.ie

Swords Water Main Replacement Project to provide a more reliable water supply for customers €9 million investment to replace the nearly 50 year old water main prone to frequent bursts Irish Water is progressing the €9 million Swords water main replacement project. To date 3.2 kms of the water main has been replaced from Forrest Road to the intersection at the Lord Mayors Pub on Main Street. Forest Road will fully reopen to the public on Sunday, 24 June.

Traffic notification The next phase of the works construction work will take place from Monday, 25 June on Main Street from the junction of Forrest Road to the Malahide Road junction (Swords Garda Station). To facilitate this section of works there will be no left turn on to Main Street from Forest Road. A one-way system will be in place from the Lord Mayors to Swords Garda station. North Bound traffic on Main Street will be required to follow the diversion. Southbound traffic on Main Street will not be affected.

A letter drop to residents and businesses was carried out in advance of these works. Advanced warning digital signs are in place to notify the public of the upcoming works. These works have been scheduled for to coincide with school holidays in order to avoid traffic congestion and minimise the impact on residents, businesses and road users.

Where are the works taking place?

The 30 inch concrete water main was laid in 1970. Since the project commenced the water main has been replaced between Cooks Road and Forest Road south of Swords, along Forest Road to the junction with Main Street. The works will now progress along Main Street and North Street and onwards to Lissenhall, ending near the Swords north M1 motorway junction.

Once replaced, the new water main will greatly improve the reliability of the water supply for homes and businesses in Swords and also to customers in Malahide and Portmarknock served by the by the Malahide Reservoir. Throughout the project, residents and businesses are being kept informed of all works in advance.

Commenting on the project Paul Hickey, Regional Lead, said “The Swords water main replacement project is progressing well and to date 3.2km of the 5.2km water main has been replaced. The next phase of the works are taking place along Main Street from the Lord Mayors pub to the Garda Station at the Malahide Road junction and are scheduled to take three weeks to complete. We thank the residents, businesses and road users for their understanding while we carry out this critical work. A one- way traffic management system will be in place for this phase of the works and we will continue to keep the community updated at each stage of the project”.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

33

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:25

Page 34

Dunmanway students to help Irish Water with ‘Think Before You Flush’ campaign

Irish Water staff talk about the important role we can all play in protecting our local environment Staff from Irish Water paid a visit to St Mary’s Junior School and Girls Senior School in Dunmanway to talk about the important role we can all play in protecting our local environment by being more careful about what we flush down the toilet.

‘Think Before You Flush’ was the key message for Dunmanway students who learned all about common items that are flushed down the toilet, but can cause blockages in sewers and water treatment plants, and can lead to pollution of the marine environment.

Worst offenders: baby wipes, cotton wool buds, nappies, plasters and cigarettes Among the worst offenders are baby wipes, cotton wool buds, nappies, plasters and cigarettes. These items don’t break down in waste water and as a result can cause severe blockages in the sewer network and treatment plants. They can also end up getting into our rivers, lakes and oceans and cause harm to fish and other marine life.

During their visit, the team from Irish Water performed simple experiments, comparing what happens when toilet tissue and wet wipes are flushed down the toilet.

The Three Ps The message was simple: The only things that should be flushed down the toilet are the three Ps – pee, poo and (toilet) paper. Everything else should go in the bin.

The pupils were enthusiastic in their support for the ‘Think Before You Flush’ campaign and agreed to help Irish Water spread this message to the wider community in Dunmanway.

Aisling Buckley, Irish Water’s Regional Information Specialist, commented “We were delighted to have the opportunity to visit the pupils in St Mary’s Junior School and Girls Senior School in Dunmanway. We got a lovely warm welcome and it was very heartening to see how much the pupils care about their local environment and want to do everything they can to protect it.

“We spoke to the pupils about the ‘Nasty Nine’ items that should never be flushed down the toilet and should be binned instead. Irish Water’s Operations team flagged that there are operational issues in the wastewater network in Dunmanway, due to baby wipes being flushed down the toilet. We asked the students in St. Mary’s to help us with our communications campaign by telling their families, friends and neighbours all about the Nasty Nine. Given their enthusiastic response, I have no doubt that they will take the message on board and encourage others to do the same. We all have a role to play in protecting our precious local environment by being more careful with what we put into our toilets and down our sinks.”

For more information on preventing blockages and protecting the environment, visit our page on How to prevent blockages or visit http://thinkbeforeyouflush.org/.

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

34

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:25

Page 35

Minister Murphy publishes Social Housing Construction Status Report and details of Social Housing Output for Quarter 1 2018 inister Eoghan Murphy, T.D., Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government has published the Quarter 1 2018 Social Housing Construction Projects Status Report, which sets out the continuing progress being made in advancing the national Local Authority and Approved Housing Body new-build pipeline.

M

The Minister also published details in respect of overall social housing delivery across all programmes for Quarter 1 2018, broken down on a local authority basis and tracked against 2018 targets. Key points of note: • At the end of Q1 2018, some 6,146 additional housing solutions had been provided across all local authorities in the quarter.

• On the construction side, 3,932, were under construction at end Q1 2018; and some 1,989 homes had been approved and were about to go on site.

• The full programme listed in the report now includes 930 schemes (or phases), delivering 14,813 homes – a very substantial increase on the 10,072 homes which were in the programme at the end of the same quarter last year.

Minister Murphy stated: “Earlier this year I committed to creating more transparency around local authority targets and delivery, and in April I published the full list of targets broken down by local authority. Today, we publish activity as measured against those targets for the first quarter of the year. Clear progress is being made across each delivery area but more needs to be done.”

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

35

LAN 37 No 3 inside:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:25

Page 36

“On the new build side alone, the Construction Status Report details new builds in social housing by local authorities and housing bodies, though excluding LA Part V and shows a positive increase when measured against the first quarter of 2017, with a roughly 60% increase in delivery of new builds. Not every local authority area saw completions in the first quarter but every Local Authority area has sites under construction.”

“What’s also encouraging about this is that the first quarter is typically the lowest quarter of activity in the year because our building programme is managed towards an uptake in delivery as we move towards the end of the year. We see this when we look back at 2016 and 2017. This is on track to happen in 2018 also.”

Minister Murphy concluded, “My Department, local authorities, approved housing bodies, the Housing Agency and all stakeholders are committed and determined to driving delivery through to the successful completion of Rebuilding Ireland, and the future for social housing under Project Ireland 2040. Three Housing Summits have been held to date, with a fourth summit for Approved Housing Bodies schedule for the beginning of September. It is new processes like these that are helping to drive delivery.”

Minister Murphy announces a decrease of 16% in the number of families and individuals waiting for a social housing home across the country The Minister for Housing, Planning & Local Government Mr Eoghan Murphy TD, has announced the provisional results of the 2018 Summary of Social Housing Assessments (SSHA).

The results show that 71,858 households were assessed as being qualified for and in need of social housing support as of June 2018. This is a much reduced number of households and represents a decrease of almost 14,000 or just over 16% on the last assessment carried out in June 2017, when there were 85,799 households assessed as being qualified for and in need of a social housing support. It also represents a total decrease of more than 21% since September 2016 and the publication of Rebuilding Ireland. The Minister expects to publish the detailed results of the SSHA 2018 in September this year.

The Minister welcomed the results noting that almost every one of the country’s local authorities reported a decrease in their annual waiting lists.

Commenting on the figures Minister Murphy said “What we have here is evidence that the suite of social housing support initiatives put in place under Rebuilding Ireland is working. Approximately 100 social housing support solutions were delivered every working day in 2017 and the numbers we see today are evidence of the real and positive impact this delivery is having on the people who need our help the most.”

The 2018 SSHA figures build on the momentum gained in 2017 when the list fell by more than 6%. Minister Murphy welcomed the accelerated rate of decrease but acknowledged that, “whilst this is positive news we must not, and will not, lose sight of the fact that there are still more than 70,000 households who are relying on us for the provision of housing support. The additional capital funding secured in Budget 2018 means that over the lifetime of Rebuilding Ireland more than €6 billion is committed for investment by this Government to support the delivery of 50,000 long-term social housing homes. In addition, 87,500 flexible housing solutions will be provided through the Housing Assistant Payment (HAP) and Rental Accommodation Schemes. This level of investment and commitment to delivery will ensure we are in a position to meet the ambitious, but clearly necessary, social housing targets over the next few years. Furthermore, commitments under Project Ireland 2040 will see a further increase in social housing homes until 2027.”

Minister Murphy concluded that, “the annual SSHA process is now playing a vital role in helping local authorities to properly target the delivery through build, acquisition, leasing, HAP and RAS in their area of social housing supports. When combined with the significant Exchequer funding it ensures that the housing needs of our citizens can and will be met in an appropriate and timely way.”

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

36

FRONT COVER LAN 37 No 3:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:29

Page 3

FRONT COVER LAN 37 No 3:Layout 1

18/08/2018

15:29

Page 4