Clondalkin News 15.10.18 by Newsgroup

15th October 2018

IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED ON BUS CONNECTS

The Bus Connects Consultation process has been taking place across the South and West Dublin areas in recent weeks. Local Cllr. Emer Higgins is worried the process will short change commuters and public transport users. Cllr Higgins explained “We need to see improvements in the next version of Bus Connects. I’ve lodged a comprehensive submission outlining my concerns around the proposed changes to our bus routes. I’m

worried that the Bus Connects strategy short changes many commuters and public transport users across Clondalkin, Lucan, Newcastle, Rathcoole, Saggart, Brittas, Palmerstown and the wider South West Dublin area.”

“I held a series of three public meetings on the Bus Connects proposal and used them as an opportunity to gather feedback from over 200 people who attended and the many more who contacted me afterwards when I publicised the proposal

in leaflets to over 20,000 homes. I’m pleased that we’re reviewing our bus services and with the proposals to create orbital bus routes linking our areas to places like Maynooth, Blanchardstown and Tallaght; but I don’t agree with many of the frequencies, capacities and routes being put forward.

I don’t agree either with the removal of direct links to the city centre for many areas, and the exclusion and isolation of certain communities from

Tallaght Stone Centre headstones crafted for all cemeteries

Tel: (01) 462 6200 Fax: (01) 462 6209

email: info@tallaghtstonecentre.ie web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie

public transport links,” said Cllr. Emer Higgins.

“In my view rural areas are short-changed by these proposals because they would have their direct link to town removed and no noticeable improvement in frequency. That’s not good enough. High population areas like Monastery and Woodford in Clondalkin, Hillcrest, Dodosboro and Weston in Lucan and Palmerstown, with a population of 10,000, are all under-served by these proposals,” continued Cllr. Emer Higgins. “Connecting modes of transport is great in theory but it is not practical for all commuters to change buses, in particular those who are elderly, wheelchair users, pregnant, pushing buggies, school kids or parents and guardians minding small children. I think the National Transport Authority needs to be mindful of that as they draft the next iteration of this plan,” concluded Cllr. Emer Higgins. For more information see www. busconnects.ie.

Our Comprehensive Services Include:

♦ headstones ♦ inscriptions ♦ renovations ♦ chippings ♦ re-lettering ♦ counter tops ♦ house names ♦ granite estate signs

Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24.

ANNADALE COTTAGE FINE CHINESE CUISINE

LEIXLIP ROAD, LUCAN

special offer - new prices FOR CLASSIC MENU (€20 per person)* AND GOURMET MENU (€25 per person)* Sunday to Thursday serving from 5pm to 9pm, Friday to Saturday serving from 5pm to 7:30pm.

FOR BOOKING AND ENQUIRIES PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US ON 01-628-0688

*Except Bank Holiday Monday’s and Every Sunday which follows a Bank Holiday

OUR FOOD IS COMPLETELY FREE OF MSG

www.annadalecottage.com

DO YOU HAVE A QUERY WHICH RELATES TO: LITIGATION ● Personal Injury Claims / ● P.I.A.B. ● Debt Collection ● Medical Negligence

FAMILY LAW ● Divorce ● Judicial Seperation ● Seperation Agreements / ● Maintenance Applications

Ballyowen Castle, Ballyowen Shopping Centre, Lucan, Co. Dublin. Call 01 - 6105 185 or 01 6760 555

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

MORIARTY’S SUPERVALU WINS

Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 HK49. Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and Rathcoole & Saggart News Printed by: Meath Chronicle Distributed by: Local Post Co. Contact Details: Email: info@newsgroup.ie Website www.newsgroup.ie www.facebook.com/newsgroup.ie Twitter @NewsgroupIRL www.linkedIn.com/company/newsgroup Registered in Ireland: 497158 Tax and VAT Registration: IE 3354179CH Advertising: Anthony Russell Sales Director anthony@newsgroup.ie Design & Editorial: John Russell john@newsgroup.ie Administration: Sarah Brooks Office Manager admin@newsgroup.ie

Its official! Moriarty’s SuperValu Palmerstown has won the National Q Mark title for Best Retail Supermarket in Ireland for Hygiene & Food Safety standards at The National Q Mark Awards. Their nomination put them in the top 6.75% of all audits completed by the Excellence Ireland Quality Association (EIQA) on the island of Ireland and this win means they are at the very top of the Q for highest standards of Quality and Excellence.

year and we were thrilled to make the final, but to win, is excellent”. James Moriarty – Retail Director of The Moriarty Group

Known as The Oscars of Business Excellence, The Q Mark Award is the highest accolade an Irish business can achieve, given both the intense competition and the exacting standards required. Speaking at this year’s awards Irene Collins, Managing Director of

EIQA said “The team have implemented the highest standards of Quality & Food Safety on a daily basis. Winning this hotly contested category is proof of that commitment. Very well done!” The National Q Mark Awards 2018 were presented by EIQA and officiated by Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD. This is a very special year for The Q Mark Awards as EIQA celebrate their 50th

anniversary and the Master of Ceremonies on the night was inimitable broadcaster Jonathan Healy. Almost 600 people representing 140 companies attended a formal black-tie ceremony in competition for one of only 27 awards presented. The evening was filled with celebration but also a heady anticipation as many familiar faces waited for the final results to be announced.

Moriarty’s Supervalu Palmerstown is a large family owned and run supermarket under the Musgrave chain. The Supervalu Store in Palmerstown is 30 years trading this December. “Winning the Q Mark Award is very special for us as it shows that hard work pays off. I’m delighted for the team in Supervalu Palmerstown as they have really put so much time into this. It was a goal of ours at the start of the

Irene Collins Managing Director of EIQA presenting a Q Mark Award for Hygiene and Food Safety to James Moriarty, Pat Ghuman, Michael Fitzgerald and Allison Gilligan from Moriarty’s SuperValu Palmerstown Picture Conor McCabe Photography

● CARPETS ● FLOORS ● DOORS ● BANISTERS ● BEDS ● FURNITURE

Showrooms Unit 3, Kylemore Park North, Kylemore Road Turn at Right Price Tiles

€99 €20 wk

€199 TEL: 01 623 8389 7 DAYS CALL 085 7812 869

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE AT GREEN ISLE HOTEL The iconic Green Isle cabaret supper clubs are back with a bang, this October the doors open for a stroll down memory lane with the Bay City Rollers-world tribute band supported by the Smokie Experience. BAY CITY ROLLERWORLD AND THE SMOKIE EXPERIENCE a unique double TRIBUTE SHOW bringing you all the hits from two of the biggest chart stars of the 70’s. THE SMOKIE EXPERIENCE treats you to timeless songs such as ‘I’ll Meet You At Midnight’, ‘For a Few Dollars More’, ‘Lay Back In The Arms of Someone’, ‘Oh Carol’, ‘Living Next Door To Alice’ and many more. BAY CITY ROLLERWORLD will take you back to the decade that taste forgot!! All the hits are there but played with tongues firmly in cheeks by LOOSE MCHEADGOIN, HAIRWRECKED FAULKNER, WEE MOODY WOODS, ALAN LAWNMOWER and DERELICT DRINKMORE. So if you want a SUMMERLOVE SENSATION..

or want to SHANG A LANG then dig out your baseball boots and tartan scarf and get your tickets booked!!!! (you may just hear some other 70,s classics while your here !!!) A brilliant fun filled night is guaranteed!!! Doors open at 7.00pm starting with a fabulous four course meal, then the entertainment begins with the live music and plenty of room on the dance floor, the evening finished off with the house DJ, late bar and dancing. Guaranteed to be a rocking night. 7.00pm Doors Open. Four Course Meal with Show €47.50 per person. 9.00pm Doors Open for Show Only €25.00 per person. Overnight Bedroom Rates €47.50 per person sharing including full Irish breakfast. To book tickets: Call 01 4123700, pick up at hotel reception or book on-line at www.greenislehotel. com.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

MAJOR SUBMISSION HAVE YOUR SAY’ INITIATIVE IS SHORTLISTED TO BUS CONNECTS Clondalkin Labour Cllr, Breeda Bonner has made a major submission to Bus Connects about the shortcomings of its proposals for the Clondalkin, Rathcoole and Newcastle areas. Among the shortcomings she highlighted are the following: 1. The need for a feeder bus to the Clondalkin/ Fonthill Rail Station so that people in Clondalkin and Lucan can avail of the new train services which bring people right into the City Centre at Connolly Station and beyond. At 20 minutes from Clondalkin to Connolly this is by far the quickest way to make this journey and should be made widely available. 2. A continued bus service between Rathcoole and Clondalkin, in part because many school students avail of such a service. 3. The new proposed D3 route to be altered to use

Monastery Road and the route through Woodford before joining the New Nangor Road. By doing this, buses would avoid the narrow Watery Lane as well as continuing to provide Woodford/ Monksfield with a good service. 4. Greater capacity on the Luas to cope with the buses terminating in that location. Cllr. Bonner said that these points give a flavour of her submission but that she has presented Bus Connects with a great deal of detail. Concluding, Cllr. Bonner said that it was vital that Bus Connects takes seriously the many thousand submissions it has received from the public. While there are many positives in their proposals such as transferable tickets from one bus to another and more frequent buses on major routes, there are glaring shortcomings which must be addressed.

South Dublin County Council’s (SDCC) landmark ‘300K – Have Your Say’ initiative has been shortlisted for an Innovation in Politics Award in the “Democracy” category at the upcoming ceremony in Vienna, Austria. The Innovation in Politics Awards, which are administered by the European Innovation in Politics Institute, are judged against four criteria; Innovation, Participation, Building Trust and Sustainability.

‘300k – Have Your Say’ is one of eighty projects shortlisted from an entry list of 600 across 8 categories and voted on by a European jury of 1053 citizens. The final adjudication will take place at an awards ceremony in Vienna City Hall on November 17th. In 2017, SDCC’s participatory budgeting initiative, the first of its kind in Ireland, allowed citizens to vote for projects designed and submitted by citizens. An additional €300,000 was provided in the annual budget specifically for this purpose. The then Mayor,

Councillor Guss O’Connell and former Mayor, Dermot Looney, with the support of the entire council membership proposed that participative budgeting be piloted in a South Dublin electoral ward in 2017. The initiative rolled out in the Lucan electoral area under the brand name ‘300K Have Your Say’ and attracted 160 project submissions. 17 of which were shortlisted

for public voting with eight projects, ranging in costs from €5,000 to €120,000 winning out. There were 2598 valid votes cast, which exceed expectations for the initiative. The real objective, increased citizen participation in local government was achieved. The Participatory Budgeting process was independently

evaluated by the Institute of Public Administration which positively endorsed the initiative. It has since been repeated in 2018 in the Clondalkin electoral area and attracted 230 project suggestions. The initiative was also awarded Best Practice in Citizen Engagement at the 2017 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards.

Former Mayor Paul Gogarty with members of the community when the campaign launched earlier this year.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

IRISH STAFF IN EU INSTITUTIONS COULD BE FACING A “GENERATION GAP”

Brian Hayes MEP for Dublin recently reacted to figures he received from the European Commission which shows serious problems on the horizon for Irish staffing levels in EU institutions. “Ireland’s

staff representation in the EU institutions will be seriously diminished in future years unless targeted action is taken to get more Irish people recruited to EU jobs. “Figures released to me by the European

Commission show that only 14% of Irish staff in the European Commission are under 40 years of age. The majority of Irish staff in the European Commission will be retiring within 15 years and not enough new

Irish candidates are being recruited to replace those retiring. In total there are 527 Irish staff in the European Commission, 306 of which are over 50.

provided to youth clubs and services in Tallaght, Clondalkin and Lucan under a grant scheme announced by local Minister Katherine Zappone.

will boost services for those working with young people combating addiction, younger members of the travelling community as well as those providing sports, recreation and other activities in our local areas. Announcing the funding Minister Zappone added: “Each of the local services

be able to use it for small building works – including upgrades of meeting rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. The fact that so much funding has once again been allocated to the SDCC area is a tribute to the dedication, passion and skills of those youth leaders working with our teenagers

literally transforming lives. The largest local grant (€20,000) is going to CARP which operates supports for young people with addictions from its base in Killinarden. There is also significant funding of €5,198.81 for the Tallaght Travellers Youth Service as well as organisations in Lucan, Clondalkin and Ronanstown including Lucan Youth Service €10,540.61, Youth Workers Ronanstown €9,978.70, Ronanstown Youth Service €16,333.05 and Clondalkin Youth Service €11,073.82”. Zappone concluded “I am confident the grants will assist in improving the quality of the services to the benefit of young people involved. In particular they will improve physical facilities.”

“The

Commission

has

OVER €73K FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE SDCC AREA More than € 73,000 is being of the six clubs selected. It receiving the money will and young people.They are

The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs said the money is being used for small capital works at each

also said that in key EU staffing grades, Ireland is ‘significantly underrepresented’. In the AD 5-8 grade bracket, where most permanent EU staff are recruited, Ireland is 60% below the appropriate level (“the guiding rate”). The guiding rate is calculated on the basis of a country’s population figures. Ireland’s population is 1.6% of the total EU population. Yet in the AD 5-8 grade bracket, Irish staff only account for 0.7% of the total staff in that bracket. “According to the EU Staff Regulations, EU officials must be recruited on the ‘broadest possible geographical basis from among nationals of Member States’. This implies that there must be a fair balance of staff members between all EU Member States. “In the 1980s and 1990s there was a successful drive to get Irish staff into the EU institutions but that has not continued into recent decades. This is partly due to an influx of new Member States joining the EU but it is also due to inaction on the part of successive Irish governments. “In a

recent report, the European Commission said that unless targeted measures are taken to increase staffing levels in certain grades, Ireland could be faced with a ‘generation gap’. “The Commission has just started the process of looking to reduce the imbalance for some nationalities in staffing levels. “This issue requires urgent action from the Irish government. My contention is that the government should push the European Commission to initiate country specific recruitment competitions for nationalities that are underrepresented or face a generation gap. Country specific competitions have only been employed once before in 2004 when 10 new Member States joined the EU. “But given that more and more staff are being recruited from Mediterranean countries and less and less staff are being recruited from Northern European countries, a direct intervention such as country specific competitions, should be utilised.”

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

RAISING OF GREEN FLAG IN SEAN WALSH PARK AND LAUNCH OF TREE TRAIL

Raising of Green Flag in Sean Walsh Park and Launch of Tree Trail Flag awarded in recognition of achieving quality standards.

The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Mayor Mark Ward raised the Green Flag in Sean Walsh Park on Thursday 4th October 2018. The Green Flag is awarded in recognition of achieving quality standards for the presentation of the Sean Walsh Park. The awards are marked on eight criteria, including horticulture standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement. It promotes high horticultural and environmental standards and a benchmark for excellence in Park management based on acknowledged international best practice. The park’s neighbours including local schools, residents, representatives from the Square, Tallaght

Stadium, The Plaza Hotel, The Maldron Hotel, the Gardai, IT Tallaght, members of the Litter Mugs, local Councillors and staff of the Council attended the raising of the flag.

The Council welcomes the Green Flag award for Sean Walsh Park. This award acknowledges the work of the staff of the park and a very active group of volunteers – the Litter Mugs. The Litter Mugs, organise a monthly cleanup of the park, look out for the birds and wild life and take on other projects in the park. They make a real positive difference to the park. October 4th marked Tree Day and as well as celebrating the raising of the Green Flag, and saw the launch of the Sean Walsh Tree trail. There are 15 trees in the tree trail with an information plaque at each point. A number of the trees are already growing in the park and others will be planted in conjunction

with local schools over the planting season.

The Tree trail is a project of Love Tallaght Outdoors, a local community group, and South Dublin County Council. The project was

funded by the Local Agenda 21 Environmental Fund. IT Tallaght were also involved in producing the tree plaques.

can play sport, walk and enjoy nature. They enhance our lives and, in a busy place like Tallaght, offer an oasis of calm.

Mayor Ward said “Parks are wonderful spaces where we

I am delighted that South Dublin County Council’s

Sean Walsh Park will fly the Green Flag, a recognised international standard. I want to congratulate the staff and the community groups involved in the parks for this wonderful achievement”

Cllr Charlie O’Connor, SDCC CEO Danny McLoughlin, SDCC Mayor Cllr Mark Ward, Aisling Brian raising the flag with children from Scoil Maelruain, Tallaght and Teresa Walsh raise the green flag in Sean Walsh Park and launch of Tree trail. - Photo: Ben Ryan.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

REFUSING TO REPORT ON THE OBESITY ACTION PLAN

Seán Crowe T.D. has called on the Minister for Health to publish an annual report on the progress of implementing the ‘A Healthy Weight for Ireland: Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016 – 2025’. The Sinn Féin TD said the action plan is now two years old and despite the government saying it would report annually, the Department of Health has not produced a report on its progress in implementing the plan. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “In September 2016, the government published an obesity plan for the State entitled ‘A Healthy Weight for Ireland: Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016 – 2025’. “The action plan was welcomed by all TDs and we supported the action plan’s principles of trying to reverse obesity trends, preventing health complications, and reducing the overall burden for individuals, families, the health system, and the wider society and economy. “The plan is now two years

old and despite assurances from the government that it would report on its implementation annually, we have not seen anything from the Department of Health in terms of the progress of implementing the plan, and in particular in relation to the implementation of ‘Ten Steps Forward’ which is the key section in preventing overweight and obesity. “Without the provision of an annual report, we cannot benchmark the progress of the plan and how it is impacting on obesity in the State.” Crowe continued: “Research from Safefood estimates that 55,056 children currently living in the State and 85,688 on the whole island will die prematurely due to overweight and obesity. “This is the challenge and very real crisis that is facing us as a society. Children and adults are eating themselves into bad health and an early grave, and we need to know it the limited measures like

a sugar tax are impacting in any positive way. “We know that the total lifetime financial costs of childhood obesity in this State are estimated to be €4.6 billion, with the direct healthcare associated costs estimated at around €1.7 million. “We also know that simple health improvements can make a massive difference. For instance, if body mass index (BMI) was reduced by as little as 1%, the lifetime cost of childhood overweight and obesity would be reduced by as much as €270 million. A BMI reduction of 5% would reduce the lifetime costs by €1.1 billion and it would have a significant impact on health and wellbeing. “Reducing the levels of obesity makes financial sense and there are huge health benefits, but there seems to be little appetite by the government to tackle the issue. “We saw this recently with the implementation of voluntary codes for junk food where there has not been a monitoring body set

up or any technical guidance despite the codes being published over 7 months ago. “We need to see ringfenced funding to tackle

obesity and we need to see, as a matter of urgency, a report into how ‘A Healthy Weight for Ireland: Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016

– 2025’ is being progressed, including a breakdown of its successes, and equally important, what is not working.”

CYPSC RECENT MEETING

United to promote health amongst our young people. Members of the South Dublin Children and Young Persons Services Committee (CYPSC) meet Independent Minister Katherine Zappone at a national conference in Citywest to promote health projects which benefit teenagers. Minister Zappone says ‘It is true prevention is better than cure and we need to get the that message out so as our young people are fit and avoid smoking, excess drinking and other addictions.’ Pictured are Padraig McCabe, Aileen O’Donoghue, Marian Quinn, Minister Zappone, Jean Rafter, Michelle Sheehan, Maria Hayes of the South Dublin CYPSC.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

COMMUNITY ENDEAVOUR AWARDS FOR 2018

South Dublin County Council is conscious of the efforts of the many individuals and community organisations that work together on an ongoing basis to deliver and implement improvements in

a sustainable and inclusive way in servicing the needs of their local communities.

John Curran T.D. has said the Government’s poor attitude towards delivering much needed funding to the Local and Regional Drug Taskforces in communities nationwide, is letting down those most in need of support for problem drug and alcohol use. The Deputy received a response from the Minister recently which indicates that after being left without funding since January, Local and Regional Drug Task Forces are to receive a once off payment in October to allow them operate until December.

€52,000 per Task Force) however, this funding is all once-off. The most recent piece of funding requires that proposals are agreed in September, the funding allocated in October and resources spent by the end of 2018. This type of piecemeal and once-off funding is inefficient and is inadequate to support the strategic and sustainable investment in local services needed in our communities.

The Community Endeavour Awards recognise and reward these community

efforts and achievements in South Dublin County. In 2017, 169 entries were received from a wide variety of groups operating in South Dublin County with the Clondalkin Round Tower

Heritage Group scooping the Overall Community Endeavour Award.

government to invest in the services that are needed and, in particular, to make sure this investment is made where it really counts, on the ground in day-to-day service delivery in our communities.” These task forces play an essential role in communities across the country by providing a targeted response to emerging trends in drug and alcohol use. Ensuring that they are adequately funded is a matter of public health. In order for these services to remain in communities to support those with problematic drug and/or alcohol use, they need to receive consistent levels of funding year round.

payment provided. They therefore cannot plan ahead and they are not in the position to expand or deliver comprehensive services in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. “During a time when problem drug and alcohol use is on the rise, particularly among our young people, the Government need to be properly investing in community based services.

There are three categories of award available Community Endeavour

‘ONE-OFF’ PAYMENTS TO DRUG TASK FORCES

Deputy Curran commented, “In Budget 2018, the government announced an additional allocation of €6.5m for drug-related actions. Three separate pieces of additional funding were allocated to Task Forces during 2018 (amounting to approx.

October

In effect this means there has been no progress in the overall restoration of Task Force budgets during 2018. It is crucial that restoration begins now as we move towards a health–led approach to drug use and to the removal of criminal sanctions for possession for personal use. This change will only show real and tangible outcomes if there is a clear commitment from

“As it stands, those working with a task force are unable to kick-start priority projects out of fear that they will be left without funding beyond the initial

“The reality is that these problem drug/alcohol users and their families need support at much earlier stage; comprehensive aftercare structures, school based programmes and family support services are critical. “If the Government is serious about gaining some grasp of Ireland’s drug crisis it will move to restore consistent funding to Local and Regional Task Forces,” he concluded.

Award 2018, worth €3,000, Special Recognition Award 2018, worth €2,000 and 11 Individual Category Awards of €1,000 each. Applications can be made online at www.sdcc.ie. Alternatively, applicants

can get in touch with the South Dublin County Council community services team on 01-4149270. Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 19th October at 4:00 pm.

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor PC Living in Tallaght ...Working for Tallaght

WEEKLY ADVICE CLINICS Dominic’s Community Centre MONDAY AT NOON Fettercairn Community Centre TUESDAY 7PM Aherne’s, Old Bawn Road SATURDAY 11AM Trustus, Tallaght Village, SATURDAY AT NOON Firhouse Community Centre SATURDAY 2 PM

email charlie.oconnorff@gmail.com

mobile 087 2982079 THE FIANNA FAIL TEAM IN DUBLIN SOUTH WEST John Lahart TD, Councillors Paul Foley, Emma Murphy, Charlie O’Connor

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

Old Bawn Stoves & Fireplaces

â&#x201A;¬100 Off Stoves and Fireplaces With This Ad Opening Times: Monday-Friday 9am -5pm Saturday 10am -3pm

16B Old Bawn Shopping Centre Tallaght Dublin 24

Phone: (01) 557 2215

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

Liffey and Dublin Bay Flood Risk Management Plan

South Dublin County Council has adopted the Office of Public Works’ (OPW) Liffey and Dublin Bay Flood Risk Management Plan. The OPW has produced an individual Flood Risk Management Plan (Flood Plan) for each of the 29 river basins that serve the 300 communities assessed as being potentially at significant flood risk.

Dublin County Council on Monday 17th October 2016 and went to Public Consultation in Tallaght and Lucan Libraries on the 1st and 2nd of November 2016.

The preparation of these flood plans is a central part of the implementation of government policy on flood risk management and meets Ireland’s obligations under the 2007 EU ‘Floods’ Directive.

The Catchment-based Flood Risk Assessment and Management Programme (CFRAM) have identified flood relief schemes to provide protection to approximately 18,000 properties. Pilot CFRAM Projects or accelerated schemes are underway, including the Poddle, Camac and Whitechurch Schemes, and these will protect approximately 6,500 properties nationally.

The Flood Risk Management Plans were finalised and approved by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on 16th April 2018. This was subsequently reported to EU Commission and the various plans were launched 3rd May 2018. The draft Liffey and Dublin Bay Flood Risk Management Plan was presented to South

There are a further 118 new schemes proposed in these plans providing protection to approximately 11,500 properties nationally, one of these being in the South Dublin area on the Liffey between Lucan and Chapelizod. Further public consultation at the detailed design and planning stage will be held at a future date.

COLLINSTOWN PARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE UPCOMING GRADUATION Collinstown Park Community College award ceremony for graduates of our Further Education Courses will take place on Thursday 18th October 2018 at 7.00p.m. This year over 150 students will be presented with award certificates.

The college runs an extensive further education programme including full time PLC Courses, full time VTOS Courses and part time BTEI Courses. The Further Education Department of Collinstown Park Community College has been in operation for over 20 years now, providing education and training for the local community and further afield. The college has a number of provisions for learners who are unwaged/unemployed or in receipt of Social Protection payments which allow people return to education while retaining their benefits. These includes VTOS and BTEA for full time students and BTEI for part time students.

The college is delighted with the success of this year’s graduate students, many of whom have gained employment since completing their qualification. Some students have chosen to continue with their studies and we are very proud to have graduates now studying on degree programmes in NUI Maynooth, Trinity College and the Institutes of Technology in Tallaght and Blanchardstown. Most of our students come from the local community and surrounding areas, over the years we have developed strong links with local community groups and provide training for many of those involved in CE schemes.

This year’s graduate cohort include the following groups; Information Technology: These students have completed an Information Technology programme to qualify as IT and Network Support Technicians.

Depending on the course Students will be presented with a combination of awards to include QQI Level 5 , the ECDL certificate, the CpmpTIA A+ award and CISCO CCNA. Graduates form these courses have been very successful in progressing to employment or further studies in the IT sector. Business Computers: receive a Business award.

Studies with students will QQI Level 5 Administration

ECDL: Students from this course will be awarded with the ECDL and a QQI Level 5 minor in award Reception studies. Hairdressing and Beauty: Students from this course will receive a QQI Level 5 award in Hairdressing Beauty Therapy Course: Students from this course will receive a QQILevel 5 award. Early Childhood Care & Education: Students on

these courses will be awarded a QQI Level 5 and in some cases a Level 6 award. Special Needs Assisting: Students from this popular course will receive a QQI/ Level 5 award. Nursing and Health Care Support: Two different QQI Level 5 awards will be presented to students on our Nursing Studies and Health Care Support courses. Social and Community Care: Students from this course will receive QQI Level 5 awards in Community Care. ESOL: English Language students on this course will be receiving a QQI Level 4 award. Return to Learning: Students from this course will receive QQI Level 4 award in Communications, IT Skills and Historical Studies. For more information visit www.collinstownpark.ie

COVERING ALL OF LEINSTER AC ROOFING ROOFING SERVICES GUTTERING SERVICES 3 Supply and fitting of uPVC & GUTTERING 3 All aspects of roof work www.acroofingandguttering.com

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

undertaken New roofs and repairs/slated & tiling New copper and lead valleys All chimney work Torch-on felting Attic insulation and conversion Grant, conservation and heritage work Surveyors on site at all times All waste removed

CALL US TODAY ON 01 6917659

3 fascia, soffits, 3 barge and guttering systems, 3 downpipes - all colours 3 Maintenance free 3 No rotting, painting or repairing 3 Replace all rotten timber 3 All rubbish removed from site 3 References available on request

FULLY INSURED AND FULLY REGISTERED

MOBILE 0858833734

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

SANCTA MARIA COLLEGE EDUCATION FOR LIFE

SANCTA MARIA COLLEGE pursues excellence. We are committed to empowering each student to reach their full potential by providing the best possible educational opportunities and experiences. The College prepares its students to embrace the future by providing a holistic education in a safe, nurturing community, shaped by the Mercy Sisters and CEIST values (Catholic Education/Irish Schools Trust) Our prime concern is that a student’s experience at Sancta Maria College is happy, stimulating and rewarding, and that each student is able to make the most of the opportunities the College provides Safety and wellbeing is a priority, as is care for the community and the surroundings. The giving of respect and the taking of responsibility – for themselves and others – is part of the lived ethos. The importance of embracing new technology

has long been recognised. As part of a phased introduction, all students from First to Fourth year have a personal iPad for college work.

Approximately €7 million has already been spent over the last two years this has transformed the College into a most modern, wellequipped educational facility, attracting students from a wide area. There is hard evidence of this investment, and the wonderful developments the college has seen as a result. From the careful colour scheme to the choice of seating – expensive but so helpful to posture – great thought has gone into every detail of the design of the new building. There is more too come to with a second phase, which is about to start. This will include a stateof-the-art sports hall, and an extended and renovated concert hall. There will be new ladies and gents dressing rooms and showers. The local community will

benefit with the expansion of the College’s wellbeing philosophy.

Together with South Dublin County Council, An Taisce, and the Nationals Road Authority, a new pedestrian way and cycle lane with be incorporated onto all the roads leading to the campus This will bring benefits to Sancta Maria College, Scoil Naomh Padraig and Colaiste Eanna As part of the redevelopment of the college, an new ring road will be accommodated to make access to all the facilities as easy as possible. More students will be encouraged to cycle or walk to school once the proper infrastructure is in place. In recent years we have forged close links with local GAA club, Ballyboden St. Enda’s to share facilities with the College. We now have use of the playing pitches during the school day. The college acknowledges a rich diversity of cultures and embraces the uniqueness of

each. It also provides a wide variety of sports including: tennis, hockey, camogie, football, basketball, badminton, table tennis and volleyball. Each year the college celebrates success on the sporting field. If you are seeking the highest standards in education and well-being for your daughter, perhaps now is the time to visit Sancta Maria College and view what is on offer.

The Principal and Deputy Principal, along with all the College staff, look forward to welcoming you at their upcoming Open Evening for parents and prospective students.

Save the date: Open Evening, Thursday 25th October, from 7pm to 9pm

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

TALLAGHT TV PRODUCER BRIEFS Households Need A Waste Regulator MINISTER ZAPPONE

Tallaght TV Producer Shauna Keogh briefs Minister Katherine Zappone on forthcoming documentary projects during a visit to Leinster House. Minister Zappone said ‘Shauna’s natural talent to bring sensitive and personal issues to the attention of a wider television audience has brought hope to many viewers

who are themselves going through a difficult time. Her work on Britain’s Channel 4 and in the United States has rightly won much acclaim, including a daytime Emmy nomination. It was great to hear about future projects in the pipeline and it is my hope that we will see more of Shauna’s work on screen in the very near future.”

John Lahart TD has said that any further delays in the establishment of a regulator for the waste collection industry will heap more pressure on already hard pressed consumers. Recently the Consumer and Competition Protection Commissioner(CCPC) published its report which found that 25% of consumers in the Greater Dublin Area did not have the option of more than one service provider. Commenting on the findings, the Dublin South West TD said, “When the Government attempted to implement changes to waste charging back in 2016, Fianna Fáil took action to ensure a delay in introducing these changes.

“The average cost of household waste collection in Dublin was €228 in 2016 and that price has continued to rise for hardpressed families. By establishing a regulator with strong powers for enforcement, it

could licence waste operators and set the prices faced by households. He added, “The research also reveals that a quarter of consumers across Dublin are without access to more than one operator of waste collection services. In fact the number of market operators competing to collect our bins continues to decrease. “If households are expected to follow strict rules regarding recycling they need to be seeing more bang for their buck or at least a reduction in their bill. This isn’t happening and the environment isn’t the better or more sustainable for it. “As consumers we need to demand greater transparency around these companies’ profit margins and finances. “It’s time that Minister Naughten listened to Fianna Fail’s calls to establish a waste regulator for the industry to ensure we get it right for once and for all,” concluded Lahart.

VITAL AMENDMENT TO ARCHIVE DIGITAL WORKS HAS PASSED IN THE SEANAD

Sinn Féin spokesperson for the Arts, Youth Affairs and LGBTQI Rights Senator Fintan Warfield has welcomed the passing of a Sinn Féin amendment in the Copyright and Other Intellectual Property Law Provisions Bill 2018 to allow certain libraries to sweep and archive the ‘dot-ie’ domain, despite Government opposition.

Minister Katherine Zappone pictured with Tallaght woman Shauna Keogh.

Senator Warfield said: “The amendment allows for the creation of a legal digital deposit, which would allow the National Library of Ireland and others to sweep the dot-ie domain and archive digital

publications. “This deposit is already established in as Britain and most other EU countries, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. “The absence of this deposit has created an ever-increasing hole in our national memory which will make the future understanding of our society difficult. “This is a live issue as the average life of an individual web page is 100 days. “I am glad to see common sense prevail and I look forward to see this proposal come to fruition”.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

LOCAL TIDY TOWNS COMMITTEES TO RECEIVE €14,000

Fine Gael Cllr, Emer Higgins, has welcomed the allocation of €14,000 for Tidy Towns committees in Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown, Newcastle and Brittas. The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, has announced a €1.4 million national grant scheme to mark the 60th anniversary of the

Tidy Towns Competition. This scheme will allow each Tidy Towns committee to apply for a grant of between €1,000 and €4,000 to support the work they do and will support six committees throughout the county.

Higgins said: “Just last week we saw the value our local Tidy Towns Groups

make to our area. It was fantastic to see our villages of Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown, Newcastle and Brittas score so well in the national Tidy Towns competition. The Tidy Towns Groups in each of these areas along with North Clondalkin will now receive a total of €14,000 in grant funding. This investment by the

FITZGERALD VINDICATED BY CHARLETON REPORT

Local Fine Gael TD, Frances Fitzgerald has welcomed the publication of the Charleton Report. “On a personal level I am pleased that I have been found to have acted appropriately, used my judgement well, and that my evidence has been accepted as truthful.

Fitzgerald said, adding that at all times she had abided by these principles. The Report restates the vital role that Sergeant Maurice McCabe has played in shining a light on poor practices, which Ms Fitzgerald always acknowledged in her dealings with him.

“I established the Tribunal to find the truth about very disturbing information given to me when I was Minister for Justice & Equality, and am pleased that it is proving effective in the quest for the truth in these complex matters,” she said. “There are many lessons to be drawn from the Report, which requires thorough and careful reading.”

The Report’s emphasis on the reform and ethical standards required of An Garda Siochana, areas which Ms Fitzgerald had spearheaded as Minister for Justice, indicate the extent of change which must be achieved. Ms Fitzgerald has thanked An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, for his support during and since the controversy erupted in late 2017, pointing to his prophetic words at the time of her resignation:

As the Report points out, the consequence last November of politicians, the public and the media going on ‘leaked snippets’ in relation to the O’Higgins Commission was that “…at a crucial juncture for Ireland in the Brexit negotiations, the Government of our country came close to falling and in the ultimate result Frances Fitzgerald TD the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, who had formerly been Minister for Justice and Equality resigned from office on 28th November 2017.” “It is tempting to jump to conclusions in complex situations but in both politics and the media this must be tempered by respect for facts and due process.,” Ms

“In the past week a drip-drip of information may have made certain things seem greater than they are. There was a feeding frenzy, and it became impossible for her to get a fair hearing based on the full facts. I hope that will change in the period ahead.” (Dáil Éireann: 28th November 2017) I also want to thank my Fine Gael colleagues and all of my constituents - and of course, my family for their support. The Tribunal has now provided a Report of that fair hearing based on the full facts, Ms Fitzgerald concluded, and she thanked Justice Charleton for his hard work and a very comprehensive Report.

RED LINE BOOK FESTIVAL

Pictured at the Red Line Book Festival 2018 in the Civic Theatre Tallaght were comedian, Alison Spittle and authors Emer McLysaght, Sarah Breen, Tara Flynn and Aoife Dooley with Councillor Charlie O’Connor, Chairman of the Council’s Economic Enterprise and Tourism Development SPC.

Government will directly support the local Tidy Towns groups. These volunteer led community initiatives bring out the best in our towns and villages. “This competition really shows us the importance of participation. Our local Tidy Towns volunteers are a credit to our community. I encourage anyone who feels strongly about our community and our environment to get involved

with Tidy Towns. “I have no doubt that towns and villages across Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown, Newcastle and Brittas will benefit hugely from this investment. Wherever you have active Tidy Towns committees, it gives the place a real boost and creates the environment for tourism,” Cllr. Emer Higgins said.

Minister Ring said: “This funding is recognition from

the Government of the huge contribution made by citizens in their own communities. “Tidy Towns groups have made our country as a whole a better place to live in and to visit. The work is carried out on a voluntary basis and we all benefit from it. This investment by the Government will further enhance our towns and villages and represents great value for money.”

Representatives of the Tidy Towns Committees across South Dublin attending a Mayors Reception in County Hall

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

LULLYMORE HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS SATURDAY 27TH OCT. – FRIDAY 2ND NOV. 2018

IT’S BACK …… Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park hosts its now infamous “Halloween Happenings” for SEVEN spooky days Saturday 27th October to Friday

2nd of November 2018 10am to 6pm Daily (4.30pm Last Admission) Lots of ghastly ghouls and terrifying treats in store at Lullymore including Haunted

Holograms, our weird but wonderful Witches, Terror Train Trips (be prepared for Zombie Attacks!!), Terror Treasure Hunts and freaky fun in the devilish den of play—the Funky Forest. Prepare for the Fright of your Life. Come in fancy dress (optional) – Prizes for best Fancy Dress costumes in the Indoor Centre from 2pm every day! (Halloween prizes start at 2pm). One Terror Train Trip per family included in admission. *******WARNING******* TERROR TRAIN TRIP may not be suitable for younger children and parent discretion is advised. However, Indoor and Outdoor Play areas and

Halloween fun / games in Indoor Play Centre are suitable for all age groups. Usual family admissions apply – no extra cost for Halloween activities. No online booking available for this event. Bank Holiday Weekend expected to be busy, Tuesday – Friday expected to be quieter which may suit some families especially with younger children. Please call us at 045 870238 or visit us at www. lullymoreheritagepark. com/halloweenhappenings/ for more information on the event. Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park, Lullymore, Rathangan, Co Kildare. Eircode R51 E036.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

GOVERNMENT REVIEW OF CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONS WELCOMED

Colm Brophy T.D. has recently reported progress on the Government’s review of those in receipt of reduced Contributory Pensions. The Government’s review of pensions, announced earlier this year, applies to people whose rate of entitlement was assessed based on pension rate band changes introduced in 2012.

parenting or caring duties. The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is currently working on legislation to implement the new arrangements as well as a new information technology system to be developed in line with the legislation. Both of these measures are at a very advanced stage.

review will work. This will no doubt be welcomed by all affected in Dublin South West, particularly women who have been disproportionally affected.

The review will provide for an alternative total contributions approach recalculation for contributory pensioners born on or after the 1st September 1946 and new Home Caring Periods to take account of time spent out of the workplace for

Welcoming the progress, Deputy Brophy said, “My colleague Minister Regina Doherty has confirmed to me that letters will issue to the pensioners concerned at the end of October, to explain to them what is happening and how the

“Work has been ongoing within the Department of Social Protection to prepare legislation and design IT systems to deal with the changes since they were announced. With additional temporary staff recruited, this work is on target to see the pensions review process commence in the coming weeks, and so it is planned for the first payments to be made in the first quarter of 2019. “It is expected that, where

Seán Crowe T.D. has called on Social Protection Minister, Regina Doherty, to ensure that her Department carry’s out a thorough investigation into social

welfare payment delays. The Sinn Féin TD described the payments as vital to families and individuals and said that even the slightest delay would impact heavily

on recipients. Teachta Crowe said: “Two weeks ago saw a widespread delay of numerous social welfare payments to people right across the State with

increases are awarded, these payments will be backdated, where relevant, to the end of March 2018, or later where a person reached their 66th birthday since that date. “No pensioner will be worse off as a result of this review. Where a pensioner does not benefit from the measures introduced, they will continue to receive their existing rate of entitlement. However Minister Doherty has informed me she expects the majority of those who were adversely affected to be positively impacted by the recalculation and moved to a new, higher payment.”

Calls For Investigation Into Social Welfare Payment Delays

Permanent TSB, Ulster Bank, EBS, and An Post customers all being affected. “I understand that Jobseekers payments, Disability Allowance, Illness Benefit, Working Family Payment, and Child Benefit are among the payments which did not appear in certain bank accounts last week. This caused widespread distress to people and families right across the State. The payments are vital to families and individuals and even the slightest delay will impact heavily on recipients, who rely on it for the basics in life. “While the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection in their online update to customers have stated that they ‘will monitor the issue’, this falls far short of what is actually needed to ensure that this event does not happen again. “I am calling on Minister Doherty to instruct her Department to go beyond monitoring and instead, carry out a thorough investigation of this incident. “We cannot allow this issue to reoccur, putting some of our most vulnerable citizens in dire straits not knowing when they will receive their respective payments that are so vital in their lives.”

Kip’s Top 3 Ways To Make Learning Fun Each child is an individual and will have their own unique learning preference. As parents and teachers, it’s important that we adapt our approach to encouraging students to showcase their abilities, whilst maintaining motivation and enjoyment. Independent learning can seem like a dreaded task after a long hard day at school for most students. So, we’ve put together our top 3 tips to help you make studying more fun for you and your child. Use technology if possible Technology is more prevalent than ever and its usage, especially with the younger generations continues to grow. This doesn’t have to be a barrier to an engaging learning experience, however, in fact in most cases it can be a huge benefit. There are many ways to incorporate technology into a learning routine, turning something that normally seems like a chore into a fun experience. YouTube is a fantastic learning resource, with plenty of educational channels such as Crash Course and Crash Course Kids, as well as Itsokaytobesmart and many others, who provide regular learning content across a wide range of topics. Whatever device you or your child uses, there are many educational apps to be found - try Duolingo, Evernote or Lumosity. Separate larger tasks with short, relevant fun activities Study periods that are too long and having too much homework are thought to decrease learning efficiency overall. However, there are ways you can keep your child engaged in a subject without forcing them to overwork. Try following up work periods with a fun task. Take the area your child is studying and have them create a poster or illustration related to the subject or anything that allows them to be creative. Let your child choose the method they think would be the most fun for them. Get out and see it One of the best ways to make learning fun and engaging is getting out and experiencing some of the things your child has been learning in person. Museums, science or learning centres and cultural experiences such as plays can have a huge impact on making learning more enjoyable for your child. At the end of the day, you know your child best. Try to incorporate things that they enjoy and make learning a breeze. If you’re looking for advice on how to make education fun for your child or are looking for fantastic tutors in South Dublin, simply get in touch. Sarah Davies BSc, MSc, PGCE Secondary, MSc Educational Leadership, PGDip Speech & Language Difficulties

Sarah Davies, Centre Director with student

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

2018 PURE MILE AWARDS NIGHT

The 2018 Pure Mile Competition hold its annual awards night on 16th of October at The Brooklodge Hotel in Macreddin, Aughrim. The awards and certificates will be presented by, Mr. Andrew Doyle, T.D., Minister of State for Food, Forestry and Horticulture and the Cathaoirleach for Wicklow

County Council, Cllr. Pat Vance. The initiative has grown every year, and with the introduction of, ‘Clean Up The Uplands’ award, which invites special interest groups, scout groups, walking groups, cycling groups, businesses and organisations, to adopt and upland area, it has resulted in over 60 groups enlisting in the 2018

competition.

This year there are over 1,000 volunteers collectively improving and enhancing over 220 miles of road, forestries, woodlands, upland amenities, valleys, mountains, and beaches, with the removal of tonnes of illegal dumping and litter from the Wicklow/Dublin Uplands.

Ian Davis, Pure Project Manager commented, ‘The Pure Mile has grown from strength to strength every year, with over 220 areas adopted in this year’s competition, the largest number since the Pure Mile was established in 2009, with more groups eager to get involved in next years competition.

Pure has removed over 3,100 tonnes of illegal dumping from the Wicklow/ Dublin uplands, but we only have one truck and one driver, so we are unable to remove the unsightly small-scale litter. All of the Pure Mile groups make a huge difference to the appearance of the Wicklow/ Dublin uplands, and I would like to congratulate and thank all of the people involved.’

Each group will receive a Pure Mile Certificate, a selection of native trees, and all will be included in the popular Pure Mile Calendar, which will be launched in November. A number of awards will be presented on the night, with over €4,500 of prize money being handed out. The Pure Mile is the perfect opportunity for communities and groups who want to positively contribute to their locality. It enables people to improve and enhance the place they live in, or recreate in, and the awards night enables groups to meet people with similar interests. Pure supply all groups with bags, litter pickers, gloves and high-vis jackets, and the Pure Truck removes

all of rubbish gathered by groups. If any groups, communities, individuals, schools, walking groups, cycling groups, scouts, businesses, anyone, wants to get involved in next years Pure Mile, they can contact Pure at info@ pureproject.ie or download and application from www. pureproject.ie/what-wedo/the-pure-mile/. You can also write to; Pure Project, Wicklow Mountains, National Park, Kilafin, Laragh, Bray, Co. Wicklow and they will post out all the information or request an application form and information pack by phoning Pure on 0404 45547. Further information on Pure can be found on www. pureproject.ie

TO REPORT DUMPERS AND DUMPING LO–CALL 1850 365 121

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

INNOVATIVE 1000 HOME JOINT VENTURE INITIATIVE IN CLONDALKIN

Following a detailed master planning and competitive tender process, South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has now agreed on the joint venture development of 975 homes on 72 acres of council lands at Kilcarbery in Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

The mixed tenure development which will include 294 social housing units (30% of the development) is the first of its kind envisaged as part of the major urban sites initiative under “Rebuilding Ireland”. Prior to tender, the Council invested over six months and €500,000 on detailed advance studies

including site investigations, a r c h a e o l o g i c a l investigations, ecology and environmental impact studies and traffic impact analysis. This is part of what the Council labels the “derisking process” which gives potential joint venture partners confidence in the context of planning and associated risk analysis. The architectural framework plan established an overall design strategy for the site to guide the development of detailed designs thereby ensuring compliance with National and Local Development

plan standards. The Tender process which commenced in April 2017 involved the shortlisting of an initial nine submissions down to four who engaged with the Council in competitive dialogue before the successful tender was announced. The successful bid by Adwood Ltd. is a consortium of established Dublin builders Adroit and Maplewood. Adwood Ltd. will pay the council €38m and deliver 294 social housing units at competitive rates over four years. In return for state support through the Local Infrastructure Housing

Kilcarberry Artist Impression

Activation Fund (LIHAF) of €2m, the developer has also committed to delivering 50 units at prices discounted to the market. The 681 private houses include a comprehensive

range of 3 and 4-bed houses as well as 272 one, two and three-bed apartments. The tender also includes an 847 Sqm community building which will be handed over to the Council. As much of

the master planning and pre-planning studies have been completed Adwood Ltd. has committed to securing planning and being on site by early summer of 2019.

South Dublin County Council (SDCC) is delighted to launch its Halloween Safety and Environmental Awareness Campaign 2018.

for organising alternative Halloween activities which will not harm the environment.

An Garda Síochána and SDCC Staff. A huge amount of money is spent every year on cleaning up after these bonfires, this money could go a long way towards making positive changes in our communities.”

HALLOWEEN SAFETY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN in the spring in return busy Emergency Services,

This year, to raise awareness and encourage our citizens to stay safe, the Council has published a colourful information leaflet providing facts and tips on how to stay safe at Halloween. The leaflet also contains details of the various family events hosted by SDCC’s Libraries. Members of the public can find information on incentives offered by SDCC to avoid damage to community open spaces as a result of illegal bonfires.

A free pass to Ballymount Civic Amenity Centre will be provided to every Social Credit applicant / group from 16th October to encourage recycling, one pass allows one entry for one car and will be valid until 13th November 2018.

“Bulbs Not Bonfires” is a reward available through the Council’s innovative Social Credits Scheme. This initiative provides communities with flowers

We can all work together to make it a safer time for everyone by not contributing to illegal bonfires which are an unnecessary burden on our

Speaking about Halloween, Mayor of SDCC, Cllr Mark Ward said “Halloween is about having fun but we must also remember the hazards associated with the celebrations.

Mayor Ward is inviting children to take part in the many events taking place throughout the County over Halloween. SDCC Libraries have a wonderful line-up of Halloween events for children of all ages and there is something for everyone. Check out the Harry Potter Sorting Ceremony, our Halloween STEM Workshop or one of the other spookily themed activities! SDCC encourages all our citizens to get into the ‘spirit’ and above all STAY SAFE AND ENJOY HALLOWEEN !!!!

NEW YEAR’S EVE PACKAGE Ring in 2019 with ABBAESQUE – ABBA’S GREATEST HITS Glass of Bubbly on arrival 5 Course Gala Dinner served @ 8.15pm l Live performance by Abbaesque followed by DJ until the early hours of 2019 l Late Bar l l

€65 Per Person

Make a night of it! €40pps bed and full Irish breakfast, late check out @ 1pm and use of the Merrill Leisure Club Glass of Bubbly on arrival @ 7pm l Four Course Dinner served @ 8.15pm l Live Entertainment Band followed by DJ until the Early Hours l Late Bar €59 Per Person l

1 NIGHT B&B WITH GALA DINNER & SHOW

€149PPS

2 NIGHTS B&B WITH GALA DINNER & SHOW

€189PPS

BOOK NOW! 01 2724900 / 01 2862935 sales@royalhotel.ie www.royalhotel.ie Royal Hotel, Bray, Co. Wicklow

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

Miriam O’Shea Slimming World St. Annes’s GAA Club Bohernabreena, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Mornings 9:30am & 11:30am. Tuesday Evenings: 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 087 9703016. Pamela Slimming World Old Bawn The Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Monday Evenings: 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tuesday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 086 1231774

Sandra Maxwell Slimming World St. Mark’s GAA Club McGee Park, Cookstown Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday mornings: 9:30am. Mobile: 085 1484669

Sandra Maxwell Slimming World Maldron Hotel Tallaght Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Friday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am Mobile: 085 1484669

Pauline Slimming World Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel, 1st Floor, Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Thursday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am. Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 7704751

Noeleen Herbage Slimming Word Templeogue St. Marys Rugby Club Templeville Road, Templeogue, Dublin 6W. Times: Wednesdays 9:30am, 11:30am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Thursday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 085 749 9296

Jackie Slimming World Killinarden Knockmore Junior School, Knockmore Ave, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 740 9679

Christine Murphy Slimming World Tallaght Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Saturday Mornings: 9.00 am & 11.00am Mobile: 086 088 5142

Sharon Coleman Sliming World Plaza Hotel Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Wednesday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 710 3660

Tracey Quinn Slimming World Tymon North & Balrothery St. Joseph’s School, Balrothery, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday Evenings at 5.30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1477748

Noeleen Herbage Slimming World Firhouse Firhouse Community & Leisure Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Monday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 749 9296

Greenhills Road, Walkinstown Roundabout (beside Ulster Bank) Dublin 12 Tel: 01 - 456 8595 086 056 5617

Select Design Kitchens y High Quality Painted Kitchens y Excellent Customer Service y No Hidden Costs y Dublin’s Best Priced Kitchens

y FREE ADVISE y FREE DESIGN y FREE DELIVERY y FREE FITTING

Quality Design At An Unbeatable Price Call in to us today or visit www.selectdesign.ie And See Our Quality Designed Kitchens

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

63 RAPID BUILD SOCIAL HOUSING UNIT IN CLONDALKIN

The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Mark Ward, turned the sod on the 63 social housing units on undeveloped lands located at St Cuthbert’s Park, Lealand Road, Deansrath, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 recently. The development will consist of 45 three bedroom / four-person units and 18 three bedroom / five-person houses.

All units are designed to hold a minimum Building Energy Rating (BER) energy performance of A3. The development will consist of two storey houses primarily grouped in terraces, four groups of semidetached houses and six detached houses. The works will include a new access route off Lealand Road, landscaping works, and all necessary associated ancillary works on the site and adjacent areas. The site is bounded by Lealand Road to the east, Lealand Ave, Lealand Walk and Deansrath Community College to the south, and St Cuthbert’s Park to the north

and west. The site is well served by public transport, schools, green space and local facilities.

Mayor Ward said “I’m delighted to be able to mark the start of construction of these houses in at St Cuthbert’s Park, Deansrath. There is an established housing need in this area of Clondalkin, and this development starts to address these needs.

the construction of houses, and follows the completion of 17 social housing units in Mayfield, Clondalkin, and 69 units in Sheehy Skeffington

Meadows, Tallaght. The Council expects to deliver 11 new social housing units in St. Mark’s Clondalkin, 24 units in

Killininny, Oldbawn, 28 housing units in MacUilliam, Fortunestown and another 16 units in Sheehy Skeffington Meadows,

Tallaght over the next few months. Another 185 social housing units are expected to be handed over to the Council by July 2019.

This provision forms part of the Council’s commitment to driving the building of social housing units in the County over the next few years and comes as local authorities across the country are highlighting the development and provision of housing through the #HousingFocus campaign”. The development of these 63 units at St Cuthbert’s Park, Lealand Road, Deansrath, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 is in line with Part 8 of the Local Government Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as Amended), where Local Authorities propose

Mayor of SDCC Cllr Mark Ward at the turning of the sod at the Sisk development site at St. Cuthbert’s Park, Clondalkin. Also in attendance is SDCC Chief Executive Daniel McLoughlin, Cllr Emer Higgins, Cllr Kenneth Egan, Colm Ward, Director of Services, SDCC, Patrick de Roe, Senior Architect, SDCC & Sisk building contractors. Photo: Ben Ryan.

The Kingswood Lodge FULL A LA CARTE MENU Weekdays

from 4pm

Saturday

from 1pm

Sun Carvery 12 – 6pm

2 X 12OZ SIRLOIN STEAKS + BOTTLE OF WINE ONLY €39.50

Upcoming Entertainment

SAT. 20TH OCT

SUN. 21ST OCT

Revival

Elvis Night

SAT. 28TH OCT

ANNUAL BIG HALLOWEEN PARTY

BAND & PLENTY OF PRIZES FOR BEST COSTUMES

FIND THE JOKER EVERY SUNDAY AT 8PM

MUSIC BINGO

WE’VE HAD A FACELIFT, COME ON DOWN AND HAVE A LOOK !!

EVERY FRIDAY FROM 9PM

THE KINGSWOOD LODGE, KINGSWOOD HEIGHTS, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24 TEL: 01 4514567

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

In this edition of the paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors, deals with various legal matters. As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally, Solicitors, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Telephone 4599506, Email – legal@scally.ie Question – My Father died over 5 years ago now and when he died he granted me a Right of Residence in the former family home where I have always lived. After my death it is to be sold and the sale proceeds divided among all the surviving siblings or if any of them are deceased, their children. I plan to get married shortly and my new husband will move in to live here with me in the house. However, my siblings do not seem to be happy about this and say that they now want the house to be sold. Can they insist on this? My younger brother is planning on coming home to work in Dublin and says that he wants to move into the house as he cannot afford private rented accommodation. Surely he can’t do this? Answer – Without seeing the Will, it is difficult to advise you comprehensively. However it is important to point out that there are different types of Rights of Residence. Firstly, if the Will left you a Life Interest in the house then, the house is yours until you pass on. If your father on the other hand granted you an Exclusive Right of Residence in the house then, you are entitled to live there to the exclusion of all other Beneficiaries for your lifetime unless you agree otherwise. If however your father merely left you a Right of Residence without making it either exclusive or a life interest then, it is as it says. You have the absolute right to live in the house for your lifetime but it is not to the exclusion of the people who will subsequently benefit in any sale. In other words, your brother, assuming that he is ultimately to be a Beneficiary in the event of a sale of the house, can indeed move in to live in the house and there is nothing to stop him doing so. It is perhaps the fact of your marriage which has highlighted this potential complication for you. It would however be a good idea to bring a copy of your late father’s Will to a solicitor for independent advice to ensure that the wording on the Will merely grants you a Right of Residence without the protection of either an Exclusive Right of Residence or a Life Interest. We wish you the best of luck. Question – Our last parent died eighteen months ago now and we dealt with the Probate ourselves. We had the house valued at the time of his death. It is now on the market for sale and has gone sale agreed at a figure of approximately €75,000.00 in excess of the original Probate Valuation. We have been informed that we will now have to pay Capital Gains Tax on the uplift between the Probate Valuation and the sale price. We are very confused about this as we have not nearly reached our tax free threshold on Inheritance Tax as we only stand to make about €65,000.00 each and find it astonishing that we should now have to pay tax on the uplift. Is this advice correct? Answer – Unfortunately, the advice is in fact correct. I note that you did apply for the Probate yourselves and whereas this can save you legal fees, it does also mean that you may have not had the benefit of tax advice at the time when the Probate Application was being lodged. This is always a consideration when obtaining the valuation on the property at the time of lodging the Grant of Probate. People often think that the lower the valuation the better in terms of any tax liability. However, this is not in fact the case. It can come as quite a shock to find that you have a liability for Capital Gains Tax in a situation where you have not nearly reached your tax free threshold for Capital Acquisitions Tax. Unfortunately, the reality is that these are two very different taxes and operate differently and there is no offset one against the other. However, the liability may not be substantial and this will depend on the number of Beneficiaries. It will have to be paid within the relevant tax year and if necessary, tax advice should be taken. We hope that this has been helpful if not welcome!

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

Local Business

Classifieds Easy ways to place an ad

Tel: 01 45 19000

Email: info@newsgroup.ie

DENNIS THE DASHER

THE DRY DASHING SPECIALIST GET IT DRY DASHED BY THE EXPERTS

Don’t waste any more money on painting the outside of your home! WHY USE DENNIS THE DASHER?

Online: www.newsgroup.ie

● OVER 25 YEARS DASHING IN SOUTH DUBLIN ● NO MESS, NO FUSS, JUST A GOOD JOB ● ALL HOUSES FINISHED IN TWO DAYS ● ALL WORK GUARANTEED ● REGISTERED CONTRACTOR

CASWELL Wrought Iron Gates & Railings, Ram Bars etc.

MOBILE WELDING - 24 CALL OUT

ESTIMATES FREE ● LOWEST PRICES

EXTRA SPECIAL RATES

PH: 01 4519 773 / 086 250 3130

►

FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION

►

FREE TO VIEW TV FOR LIFE NO MORE BILLS

RTE1, RTE 2, TV3, TG4, BBC 1, 2, 3. 4 CH4 E4, MORE 4, CH 5, SKY NEWS, BBC NES, UTV, ITV 1, 2, 3, 4. UP TO 20 MOVIE CHANNELS, UP TO 20 KIDS CHANNELS, UP TO 20 MUSIC CHANNELS

NO MORE UPC OR SKY BILLS NO MOTHLY CONTRACTS MORE THAN 200 CHANNELS FULLY GUARANTEED NO MORE UPC OR SKY BILLS NO MONTHLY PAYMENTS

FOR 2 OR MORE ADJOINING HOUSES BOOKED AT THE SAME TIME

MORE THAN €250 200 CHANNELS FULLY GUARANTEED

RING DENNIS AT 087 9187961 OR 01 4518599

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES WITH NEWSGROUP Delivered direct to 50,000 homes in

Tallaght, Lucan, Clondalkin, Rathcoole, Saggart & Newcastle.

Contact Angie today! Call 01 4519000

FULLY INSTALLED (ONCE OFF FEE)

email angie@newsgroup.ie

FREE SAT, UNIT 1 (BEHIND CHURCH) BOHERNABREENA, D24

PH: 085-7691144 OR 01-4524522

PLUMBER ● Bathrooms complete Inc. ● Tiling etc. ● Leaking pipes repaired. ● Blocked drains cleared. ● Storage tanks, outside taps. Oil, gas heating repaired and serviced ● Ensuites and downstairs toilets. ● Bath and Shower Replaced. ALL YOUR PLUMBING AND HEATING NEEDS. REASONABLE PRICES AND FULLY GUARANTEED.

Call John on 01 4932935 Mobile 087 2565711

CARPET, UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Suites & Carpets Dry Cleaned with Fibre Sealant & Deodorizer

GUTTER CLEANING & REPAIR ONLY €59 NORMALLY €99

3 FASCIA AND SOFFITS 3 REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT EXPERTS. 3 ROOFING REPAIRS, TILE REPAIRS, GUTTERING 3 & FASCIA SOFFITS 3 ROOF REPAIRS SPECIALISTS. 3 FLAT ROOF REPAIRS 3 CHIMNEY REPAIRS 3 ROOF REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENT 3 ATTIC INSULATION Southside Offices Robinhood Industrial Estate, Ballymount, Dublin 12 Contact 01 9012021 Mobile 085 2029238 www.citywestroofing.com e-mail: citywestroofing@gmail.com

Rugs & Mats from Carpets (1 Room) Stairs and Landing Hall, Stairs & Landing 3 Piece Suite Fabrics Leather Suites

€30 €65 €55 €65 €95 €89

CLEANING APARTMENTS MOVING IN OR OUT

SPECIAL OFFER FOR THIS MONTH

1 ROOM, STAIRS AND LANDING

ONLY €95 BOOK IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

Call Denis on 087 6711465 Mobile 086 8159007

Landline 01 8403908

e-mail deniskelly123.dk@gmail.com

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

GOVERMENT URGED TO FUND PROVISION OF SPINRAZA HOMELESS CRISIS John Curran T.D. has said this life changing drug is not Government fast track the part of the Drugs Payment CONTINUES TO DETERIORATE that the Government cannot available under the State’s authorisation of Spinraza as Scheme.”

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor has expressed his frustration that despite repeated Government pleas to be addressed the escalating housing crisis, 165 more people have become homeless in South Dublin.

Figures obtained by local Councillor Charlie O’Connor reveal that as of the end of August, 640 people in South Dublin are registered as homeless and in desperate need of housing accommodation. Cllr O’Connor said, “Over the summer, one mother and six of her children were left with no alternative than to present themselves to our local Garda Station in Tallaght to spend the night. That one incident shed some light on the impossible choices faced by so many families living in homelessness. “It’s sadly been too long the case that very vulnerable people across the South County, including those in receipt of social

Apt 33 Tramway Court, Tallaght, Dublin 24 - €160,000

welfare or surviving on a low income have struggling to find suitable affordable accommodation.

“Middle income earners are now becoming priced out of the private rental market as rent soars. They earn too much to be eligible for public housing but not enough to come close to the possibility of a mortgage or meet the sustainable cost of longterm renting. “It’s therefore no surprise that without Government action, this crisis has left go to boiling point and 165 more people in our area have been forced to deem themselves homeless in the past 12 months. “There are now over 7,000 people on the social housing waiting list in South Dublin. Really the scale of development in social and public housing that is needed is not happening to meet this demand,” concluded Cllr O’Connor.

6 Bawnlea Drive, Tallaght, Dublin 24 - €210,000

continue to hide behind bureaucracy and procedure by failing to make Spinraza available to those who need it. The Deputy recently raised the matter in Dáil Éireann and said, “There are some 25 children living in Ireland with a degenerative neuromuscular condition, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and two of these young people live here locally. “These children are very young and have already endured so much - often facing long hospital stays for weeks and months at a time and extensive physiotherapy is a part of daily routine. “As debilitating as this condition is, it is not without hope. Spinraza is a drug that is making an enormous difference to the children suffering SMA and their families in more than 20 countries across Europe. “It is clinically effective and has been proven to work by slowing down the muscle wastage and in many cases allowing muscle strengthening. Regrettably,

64 Tuansgate, Belgard Square East, Tallaght, Dublin 24 - €229,950

Drugs Payment Scheme.

“This is despite the fact that on June 22nd the Minister for Health announced that Ireland would join the Beneluxa initiative; an alliance aimed at securing affordable and timely access to medicinal products in a range of countries. “The very first task undertaken by this new group was to make Spinraza available in each of the countries signed up to the initiative, except Ireland. The hopes of the 25 children in Ireland dealing with a gruelling condition were dashed by this Government’s inability to make provision for a drug that can transform their quality of life. “The earliest possible intervention is crucial but I am concerned that the period of consultation paving way for the provision of this drug is taking inexplicably long. Deputy Curran concluded, “It’s imperative that the

35 Elmcastle Drive, Kilnamanagh, Tallaght, Dublin 24 - €320,000

John Curran pictured with the Spinraza Give a Damn For Sam Campaign

GET YOUR LEAFLETS DELIVERED WITH THIS NEWSPAPER

FROM €40.00

PER 1,000.

CALL US ON 01 451 9000

Visit www.localpost.ie

46 Glenview Park, Tallaght, Dublin 24 - €290,000

14 Colthurst Mews, Lucan, Co Dublin - €299,000

REA McGee, Courthouse Square, Westpark, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Tel: 01 4057700 www.reamcgee.ie Follow us on facebook REAMcGee and twitter@REA_McGee

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

MOTORING LIFE WITH DACIA’S ALL-NEW DUSTER CLEANS UP ITS ACT By Breda Corrigan The Dacia Duster has been a huge hit since the Renault-owned Romanian brand came to Ireland in 2013. Using a variety of Renault engines and drivetrains, along with a bespoke body and interior, it was Ireland’s cheapest Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). Buyers found the Duster’s simplicity, ruggedness and practicality very appealing, while the SUV’s raised ride height provided excellent visibility too. With over 10,000 first-generation Duster’s sold in Ireland in just five years, it can confidently claim the title of Dacia’s best selling car. 2nd Generation Dacia has just launched its all-new, 2nd generation, Duster to much acclaim and anticipation. The exterior styling changes that have been made seem relatively subtle and minor at first glance, but take a second look and it will become evident that the new Duster enjoys an appearance that is more sophisticated and rugged than before. While the design is a clear evolution of the previous car, Dacia insists every panel has been changed. At the front, the design of the headlight clusters is new, while the headlights themselves have been moved closer to the corners of the front end in order to emphasise the new Duster’s sportier stance. There’s a new wider front grille, while the base of the car’s windscreen has been brought forward by 100mm and the screen itself is now more steeply raked to give the impression that there is more room in the cabin. The rear of the new Duster is marked out by distinctive new tail-lights incorporating a ‘cross’ insignia, while a new tailgate door design also features. Impressive Safety Not prepared to skimp on safety, Dacia has reinforced the entire vehicle frame on every new Duster, while boosting both active and passive safety features too. Hill Start Assist is standard across the entire all-new Duster range, as is ABS, Emergency

Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, multiple airbags (front, side & curtain), LED daytime running lights, 2 x ISOFIX child seat anchorage points and a Tyre Pressure Warning Light. Driving pleasure is enhanced further by standard equipment like a gearshift indicator, stop & start function, ECO driving mode, Bluetooth, speed limiter and double-optic headlights. Three trim levels are available in the new Duster SUV range – entry-level ‘Essential’, mid-spec ‘Comfort’ and range-topping ‘Prestige’, while engine options consist of a 1.6-litre ‘SCe’ (petrol) producing 115bhp and a 1.5-litre ‘Blue dCi’ (turbo-diesel) also producing 115bhp. Dacia’s ‘Blue dCi’ diesel engine is equipped with a system to reduce Nitrogen Oxide emissions by injecting an urea-based fluid, AdBlue®, into the exhaust system. A dashboard message will remind you when the AdBlue® needs topping up via a specific AdBlue® filling cap located next to the usual Diesel fuel filler cap. A full tank of AdBlue® will last for 6 full tanks of Diesel. Two-wheel-drive is standard across the range, with four-wheel-drive optional in diesel-engine guise for a very reasonable premium of €2,000. Test Car My test car was an all-new Duster ‘Prestige’ 1.5-litre Blue dCi 115bhp, 6-speed manual, finished in Slate Grey metallic paint. Building on the generous equipment level of the Essential and Comfort models, Prestige specification includes 17” diamond-cut alloy wheels, Prestige upholstery, climate control, blind spot detection, keyless entry & start, parking sensors and a multi-view camera for ease of maneuverability. All of this is on top of standard ‘Comfort’ model specification, which includes cruise control, satin-chrome door mirrors, roof bars, side sills and skid plates, bodycoloured door handles, ‘Media Nav’ satellite navigation, electric front &

rear windows, rear camera, rear parking sensors and under-seat storage. The punchy engine in my test car produces 260Nm of torque for swift acceleration, allowing the car to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 10.5-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 179km/h (where permitted). On The Road Having driven the previous generation Duster last year, I can honestly say that the all-new Duster is so much better in every crucial area. The new car not only looks more grown-up than the car it replaces, but it drives every bit as good as it looks. The new electro-mechanical power steering system does a fantastic job of filtering out shocks from broken road surfaces around town, while providing a well-judged feel at motorway speeds too. Overall body control in corners is good, with plenty of grip on offer, while highly effective brakes provide excellent stopping power. Dacia claim that, thanks to additional sound-proofing, cabin noise in the all-new Duster has been halved when compared to the previous model and this becomes very evident when on the move. This is an important step in the right direction for Dacia, and one which occupants of the new Duster will really appreciate. Spacious Cabin and Boot The cabin of the all-new Duster feels built to last, with a functional dashboard layout incorporating easy-to-read dials, while piano-style buttons above the ventilation

controls add a touch of class. The new front seat cushions are longer than before and there is more adjustability too. The driver’s seat also gets an armrest for the first time and this can be tucked away when not in use. Thanks to the upright stance of the new Duster, boot space is a generous 445-litres with the rear seats in place. However, drop the standard splitfolding rear seatbacks and this capacity increases to a whopping 1,623-litres for ultimate practicality. Dacia claim that as little as 4.3-litres of diesel can be consumed for every 100km driven on an extra-urban driving cycle, meaning that the Duster’s 50-litre fuel tank is capable of a potential range of 1,160km’s. Annual road tax for the new Dacia Duster diesel 2WD is just €200, with an annual tax disc costing €270 in diesel 4WD guise and €390 for the petrol engine model. Verdict & Pricing Overall, Dacia’s all-new Duster SUV looks and feels much smarter, slicker and modern than its top-selling predecessor and it is certain to be yet another huge success for Dacia. Ex-works prices start at just €17,390 for the 1.6-litre SCe ‘Essential’ model, €19,790 in ‘Comfort’ specification and €21,290 in range-topping ‘Prestige’ trim. Diesel engines carry, a very reasonable, €1,200 premium over their petrol equivalent. It is clear to see that the all-new Dacia Duster has ‘cleaned up its act’ and is destined for a bright future.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

DUBLIN BUSINESSES IN RUNNING FOR IRISH AUTO TRADE AWARDS

Nine Dublin businesses have been shortlisted for this weekend’s [20th October] Irish Auto Trade Awards 2019 in Citywest Hotel in Dublin. Now in their 5th year, the awards are a celebration of excellence in the Irish auto trade in Ireland, a sector that accounts for over 35,000 jobs. The Dublin businesses

nominated are: Phoenix Tyre Company Ltd (Tyre Retailer of the Year), Southside Motor Factors (Motor Factor of the Year), Accident Repair Centre (Bodyshop of the Year), Green Auto Service (Independent Workshop of the Year), Frank Keane Volkswagen Liffey Valley (Main Dealer of the Year – Aftersales),

Spirit Ford Ltd - Ford Store (Main Dealer of the Year – Trade Parts), DAF Distributors Ireland Ltd (HCV Main Dealer of the Year - Aftersales), MUTEC Truck & Van Centre (HCV Main Dealer of the Year Trade Parts) and Transway Fleet Solutions LCV / HCV Independent Workshop of the Year). Candidates for the awards are subjected to phone and personal mystery shops as part of their adjudication. Broadcaster Ivan Yates will MC the gala event, which attracts in excess of 700 senior figures from the motor industry in Ireland and coincides with the Auto Trade EXPO, also in the nearby Citywest Exhibition Centre and Arena, where over 5,000 visitors will visit nearly 200 trade exhibitor stands from the aftersales, parts, tools and equipment and services sectors on Saturday the 20th and Sunday, 21st October.

Radio presenter Ivan Yates is Master of Ceremonies at the 2019 Irish Auto Trade Awards in Citywest later this month. Nine Dublin businesses have been shortlisted for awards.

Organiser Padraic Deane of Automotive Publications, commented: “In a sector whose economic worth is often overlooked, these

awards are a recognition of excellence based on rigorous adjudication

and direct feedback from industry peers. Standards in the industry are rising every

year and this is reflected in ever greater competition for the awards.”

John Curran T.D. says insurance companies should not be allowed to refuse to insure cars which have passed their NCTs and are roadworthy. Deputy Curran raised the issue in the Dáil following complaints from constituents that insurance companies are refusing to cover older cars, even if they are fully NCT compliant. Speaking during the Second Stage of the Central Bank (National Claims Information Database) Bill 2018, Deputy Curran said;

there were 139,000 people who had cars that were 10 years or older in 2018. Three years previous, that figure stood at 44,300. There are many people who simply cannot afford to replace their car for a newer model, while others choose not to because their car is running fine. Many cars, once they are serviced regularly, can last as long as 15 years without any issues.

will be a loss of revenue to the Exchequer. It will also cause a devaluation of cars – as people will be reluctant to buy older second hand cars if they have to be scrapped once they hit the 10 year mark. The wasteful scrapping of roadworthy cars also has a negative environmental impact as the manufacture of new cars is energy intensive and leaves a huge carbon footprint.

INSURANCE COMPANIES REFUSING TO INSURE CARS

“There is no reason for insurers not to provide cover for cars which have been deemed roadworthy by the NCT, however I have been contacted by people who have had trouble getting car insurance if their car is ten years old or older. This will drive thousands of roadworthy NCT’d cars off the road. “The latest figures available reveal that

3 3

“The main issue here is that we could be facing a situation where over 100,000 cars may not be able to get cover if the insurance companies get their way. These companies have been charging extortionate premiums over the past number of years and now some are refusing to provide cover despite the fact that a car has been deemed roadworthy. “If nothing is done, it will have serious implications for drivers, small garages and there

“Fianna Fáil has been to the fore in calling for a fairer deal for insurance customers and it was as a result of pressure from my party that the government set up the Cost of Insurance Working Group in 2016. While some of the recommendations have been implemented, many have not. The Government must do all that it can to protect consumers from rogue insurers”, concluded Deputy Curran.

FREE Pre NCT Check

FREE Mini Valet with all Service 3 Work Carried Out

3 Pick Up & Delivery available when 3 prearranged for local area

Prices From €89 Contact Our Service Team on 01 4519272 or 087 6030541 lpdservicecentre@lpdcars.com

Visit www.newsgroup.ie

30% OFF SALE

AVAIL OF YOUR TAX CREDITS IN THE HRI SCHEME

EP K KE EN & K LET OGIE M BO THE AWAY

NOW O

Visit our must see showroom, Open 9-5.30 Monday - Friday and 10-2 on Saturdays

NO MIDDLE MAN, WE SELL, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL

Visit our must see showrooms Freephone: 1800 250 260 I www.kkwindows.ie

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN K&K for a professional, free, no obligation quotation talk to us today K&K Windows Ltd, Craanford, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Ireland Freephone: 1800 250 260 Phone: 053 9383526 Post Code: Y25 N2T7 Email: info@kkwindows.ie

visit us online WWW.KKWINDOWS.IE

NO MIDDLEMEN, WE SELL, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL