Clondalkin News 19th Dec 22

Parents of babies born through surrogacy will now have their right to parentage enshrined in Irish law with a protective and ethical framework in place which also safeguards the rights of children, according to Senator Mary Seery Kearney. Senator Seery Kearney welcomed the recent agreement at Cabinet for legislative amendments to be brought to the committee stage of the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill to legislate for international surrogacy.

Senator Seery Kearney,

a long-time advocate for families on the issue, said: “These amendments will ensure that parents across Ireland who are not currently legally recognised by the State will be able to apply for parental orders so that they can make decisions for their children.

“The decisions they currently can’t make are simple ones parents usually take for granted, like consent for medical care, taking medication, school trips, having their photos taken. Second parents in

situations where their relationship has broken down will now be able to go into court to secure access and custody orders in respect of their children,” Fine Gael’s Seanad Spokesperson on Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Privacy Rights said.

“Up until now, they have been at the mercy of the biological father of their children when it came to whether or not they would have access or custody of their children. I know of a number of situations where mothers have been

coerced into waiving interests in family homes just so that they can get to care for their own children. This discrimination will end now for the second parents of children born via surrogacy. “The planned legislative provisions will ensure that Ireland has a very high ethical legislative framework to provide protections for families and surrogates when Irish children are born via surrogacy abroad.

Senator Seery Keary continued: “Intending parents will have to receive approval from the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority (AHRRA) before embarking on future surrogacy journeys abroad. This will mean that the safeguards against exploitation and coercion such as independent legal advice, counselling, review of intermediaries/clinics and agencies will all have taken place prior to conception. Once the conditions are approved of and are adhered to, parents will have a reasonable expectation of certainty in securing a parental order for

CONCERNS RAISED ABOUT LACK OF PROGRESS ON RETROFITTING

A local councillor has raised concerns about the slow progress of retrofitting of council homes in South Dublin. People Before Profit Councillor Madeleine

Johansson made the comments following a reply received to a question at the December County Council meeting. The reply reveals that only 64 council

THANK YOU TO LOCAL FUNDRAISERS FROM SVP DUBLIN

The Immaculate Conception Conference of St. Vincent De Paul, Clondalkin Village, acknowledges with huge appreciation, the donation in excess of €16,000 by Newlands Golf Club from their recent fundraising day.

All proceeds will be used for assistance to families in the Clondalkin area.

Peter Gaynor,

President Society of Saint Vincent De Paul

owned homes have been retrofitted so far, with another 68 scheduled to be completed in January. The councillor had also asked for a breakdown of BER ratings prior to and after the retrofitting scheme, but the details were left out of the reply.

Cllr Johansson commented: “I’m very concerned about the lack of progress of the retrofitting programme. Council tenants are generally on low incomes and will be struggling to heat their homes this winter. This current cold snap is already causing difficulties for many who are being forced to choose between heating and eating.

“We need to be more ambitious with the retrofitting programme as well as speed up the process. It’s not acceptable that council tenants are still living in poor quality housing that are expensive to heat

and can cause health issues from mould and damp.

“The retrofitting of council homes is also a very easy measure to take to reach our carbon emissions targets. Retrofitted homes reduce carbon emissions

and help the country as a whole to reach our targets.

“I’m also concerned about the lack of information on the BER ratings of the homes after the completion of retrofitting works. We need to ensure that homes

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both parents following their baby’s birth.

“Prior to my nomination to the Seanad, I was an advocate for surrogacy legislation born from my own experience. Since my appointment, I have worked with party colleagues and advocacy groups to ensure an understanding of the issues was heard at the highest levels of Government. This culminated in the Joint Oireachtas committee on international surrogacy, where members from across the entire Oireachtas worked hard to ensure that a gold standard

ethical framework was recommended to Government.”

Senator Seery Kearney called for legislative amendments to move quickly through Oireachtas and to see the establishment of the AHRRA so that first applications to the Court can be made. The Dublin Senator continued: “Cabinet also agreed to provisions for future surrogacies and for children already born via surrogacy. Children across Ireland will now have a means by which they can gain a right to full legal relationship with both parents. “The legislation

are retrofitted properly and to a high standard so that a minimum BER of B2 is actually achieved. I will follow up this question again so that there is full transparency on the outcomes of the programme.”

will enshrine ethical standards and safeguarding of women willing to become surrogates to Irish children, no matter where they live.

“Completing the work of the marriage referendum, same sex couples have a pathway to parenthood for both within that couple. Mothers in marital breakdown will have the opportunity to now apply to court for enhanced access to their children as without a statutory right to apply for a parental order they’ve had to sacrifice shares in property and other valuable interests to ensure access to their children.”

TWO COMMUNITY CENTRES TO RECEIVE COMBINED FUNDING OF ALMOST €300K

Two community centres in Clondalkin and Rathcoole will receive combined funding of almost €300,000 to carry out upgrades and repairs, a local TD has said.

Deputy Emer Higgins, Fine

Gael TD for Dublin Mid West was speaking after Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, confirmed funding of €33 million which will be spread across 278

community centres.

Deputy Higgins said, “This incredible announcement is the largest single investment in our community centres in decades and will see

INCREASE IN SOCIAL HOUSING INCOME ELIGIBILITY THRESHOLD

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, has informed Government of an increase of €5,000 to the social housing income eligibility thresholds for Dublin. The increases will take effect from 01 January 2023. This significant change is being taken pending the development and roll-out of a revised income eligibility model (and income thresholds) in 2023. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently working on this revised model.

Commenting on the increase, Minister O’Brien said “These increases will ensure that social housing supports are available to vulnerable households in Dublin. It will help protect those most at risk from the recent increase in the cost of living. “These

changes, the first in over a decade, build on the recommendations of the review into social housing income eligibility limits. My department and I are now working hard to produce a new income eligibility model, which will be completed in 2023.”

The social housing income eligibility review fulfilled a commitment in Housing for All, the Government’s housing plan. The plan contains a range of actions and measures to ensure over 300,000 new social, affordable, cost rental and private homes are built by 2030, backed by over €4 billion in annual guaranteed State investment to the end of 2026. To the end of September 2022, over 55,000 homes were either completed (27,773) or commenced (27,417). The plan’s overall target for housing supply in 2022 is 24,600.

Quarryvale Community and Youth Centre receiving €247,538 while Rathcoole Community Council will receive €50,000 in funding.

“Our community centres are valued shared spaces and are very much at the heart of our community in Dublin Mid West and I hope this funding assists in making them even better in the provision of services to people all across the area,” added Deputy Higgins.

“Enhancements may include extensions to existing community centres, energy retrofitting, maintenance works, or the upgrading of toilet facilities. Furthermore, we want to emphasise the potential of community centres to act as social hubs in our community. “I congratulate the successful projects in our area and I thank them and all the others for the vital work they do in providing services in their local communities. This

DISABILITY ADVOCACY GROUP EVENT

funding will deliver high quality capital projects for community facilities

that bring huge benefits to Clondalkin and Rathcoole”, concluded Deputy Higgins.

Pictured in County Hall at the Disability Advocacy Group Event were (L to R) Cllr. Vicky Casserly, Anne Rabbitte TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Cllr. Charlie O’Connor.

MICROSOFT’S PLAN FOR GAS POWER STATION NOT A SOLUTION TO THE DATA CENTRE PROBLEM

Before Profit councillor Madeleine Johansson, who earlier this year proposed a ban on new data centres, has said that the new power

station is “not a solution to the data centre problem”.

The plan by Microsoft to build a 170 Megawatt private power plant at a cost of at least €100 million was revealed as the company made a special application to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Cllr Madeleine Johansson commented: “The plan by Microsoft to build a private gas power plant is not the solution to the data centre problem. While it doesn’t add to the congestion of the national electricity grid it will contribute to Ireland’s carbon emissions.

“The plan for a private gas power plant is clearly a way for Microsoft to circumvent the new stricter criteria for data centres in the Dublin Region. But if we continue to allow more data centres to be built we won’t be able to cut down our carbon emissions and will ultimately face fines from the European Union. It is not acceptable

that the tax payer will have to pay fines for the irresponsible emissions of large corporations.

This is one of the reasons why I proposed an effective ban on data centres in South Dublin until 2028, a ban which the Minister for Local

Government overturned last month.

“There has been a worrying development of recategorizing natural gas as a “green fuel” when in reality natural gas is a fossil fuel and needs to be phased out. We need an increased

investment in renewable sources of energy such as hydro power, wind and solar power.

Until such a time when the grid has adequate capacity from renewable sources, there should be a ban on any new data centres. ”

SENIOR CITIZENS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Pictured in Kingswood Lodge at the Senior Citizens Christmas Celebration were (L to R). Cllr Teresa Costello, Mayor Emma Murphy, Santa and Cllr Charlie O’Connor.

CENTRAL MENTAL HOSPITAL - LESSONS MUST BE LEARNED FROM PAST MISTAKES

Mark Ward TD has called on the Government to address the concerns raised in the Irish Penal Reform Trust report on patients detained in the Central Mental Hospital. Speaking after the meeting of the

Oireachtas subcommittee on Mental Health where the report was discussed, Teachta Ward said “The report carried out by the Irish Penal Reform Trust and University of Galway raises concerns about the

O’ CONNOR WELCOMES COUNCIL GRANTS LOCALLY

Tallaght Councillor, Charlie O’Connor, has welcomed the grants approved for local groups at the December meeting of South Dublin County Council.

Among the grants approved were Fettercairn Community & Youth Centre for Flooring upgrades and Community events. Kingswood Community Centre for Electrical works. Kilnamanagh Family Recreation Centre. Fettercairn Youth Horse Project for Equipment and improvements. Killinarden Community Council for Community events and Inclusion Festival. South Dublin Allotments for an Equipment grant. St. Martin Residents Association for Community development. An Cosan for a Social Inclusion Festival. Women Together Tallaght for Social Inclusion. And Childhood Development Initiative Tallaght for Social Inclusion.

Charlie O’Connor congratulated all the recipients on the success of their applications and wished them well. He also thanked the staff of the Council’s Community Department on their endeavors in respect of the grants.

process of being detained in the secure mental health facilities. “The report highlights people being failed at every step of being detained, before and during detainment and when they are to be discharged.

“Some of the issues highlighted in the report included “unfitness to plead” to an offence leading to one individual being detained since the 1970s.

“Side effects of treatment are not properly being explained to individuals who are detained, and the use of seclusion and restraints are being used at a higher rate than other facilities.

“No lay person is included on the Mental Health Review Board and there is only one deciding officer for people to be returned to the Central Mental Hospital. “It is quite clear that the system has failed these people at every step of the process. It raises the question of how this could go on for so long?

“A concern raised at the subcommittee meeting was that the Department of Justice does not keep data on the number of people within the penal system who have mental ill-health, an addiction or a disability.

“This is concerning, and I have raised this directly with the minister for Justice. “We now have a chance to reimagine how we treat people detained based on their mental health Ahead of the move of the Central Mental Hospital to Portrane, lessons must be learned from past mistakes.

“I have written to the Minister for Health to clarify if these recommendations will be implemented going forward ahead of the move of the Central Mental Hospital. “The emphasis is on the Government now to learn from these mistakes, and deliver a quality of care for services that meets our obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”

Cllr Liam Sinclair

Email: lsinclair@cllrs.sdublincoco.ie

the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Peter Burke, TD, has signed new regulations that will require a Changing Places toilet to be included in certain buildings. These new regulations will mean

we will see up to 80 extra Changing Places toilets nationwide each year in buildings or locations such as shopping centres, museums, galleries, cinemas, hotels, roadside service stations and heritage sites. Karen

IRELAND WELCOMES

Smith, CPI Steering Group member said “this is great news, it will give me more independence and opportunities to go out with friends and family without having to come home to go to the bathroom. It was a long time coming and good that we are finally getting the understanding and recognition that we so rightly deserve”.

CPI acknowledges the huge role played by families and disabled adults in making this legislation happen. Over 8000 people signed our petition on the regulations. Families all over the country contributed to the Department’s consultation process, sharing aspects of their personal lives to educate us all about the need for Changing Places toilet facilities.

Acknowledgement is also due to the people who continuously champion Changing Places and the

organisations and local authorities who are leading the way in installing them.

Aaron Daly, CPI member and father of Sophia, aged 16, a wheelchair user and one of many who require the additional features of a Changing Places facility said “we commend the

Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on undertaking this essential step towards inclusion and accessibility in our communities and getting this legislation so promptly over the line. It will pave the way, in time, to much more inclusive communities.”

l Mon 19th Dec - Fri 23rd Dec 9am - 5pm

l Saturday 24th 9am - 3pm

l Sunday December 25th Closed

l Monday December 26th Closed

l Tuesday December 27th 9.30am - 5pm

l Wed 28th Dec - Fri 30th Dec 9.30am - 5pm

l Saturday 31st December 9.30am - 3pm

l Sunday 1st January Closed

l Monday 2nd January 9.30am - 5pm

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Tues 3rd Jan - Fri 6th 9am - 5pm

l Sat 7th Jan 9am - 5.30pm

l Sunday 8th Jan 9.30am - 5pm

the world.

This year in Co. Dublin, 23 Goal Miles will be taking place. The annual event has seen tens of thousands of people run or walk a mile in villages, towns, and cities across Ireland and around the world to raise funds for GOAL humanitarian programmes.

Siobhán Walsh, CEO of GOAL said: “The GOAL Mile offers a fantastic way to bring people together during the holidays and have some fun while supporting our Irish-born humanitarian aid agency. Last year GOAL provided aid to 18.5 million of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable adults and children across GOAL’s 14 countries of operation.” For the past four decades, these events have ensured that GOAL was able to assist those communities who need it most. All funds raised this year will be channelled into GOAL programmes in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and now Ukraine, responding to the needs of people fleeing war.

The programmes centre on providing

healthcare, nutrition, livelihood support, and safe water and sanitation facilities. Irish running legend and GOAL Ambassador Eamonn Coghlan said: “The Irish have never been found wanting when it comes to supporting those in our world most in need. We are renowned for our generosity. I think everyone should dust off their running shoes and step out in force this Christmas and do their bit for the greater GOAL”

GOAL Miles are run all over the Island (NI and ROI) across Christmas and Stephen’s Day, with over 160 locations confirmed and more to be organised.

To register and take part in a GOAL Mile near you this Christmas, please visit www.goalmile.org

Local events include; Tallaght Athletic Club, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 1, Christmas Day, 9:30am-12pm, Lucan Harriers AC, Lucan, D15, Christmas Day, 10am - 12pm, Knocklyon, Cherryfield Pitch (opposite Ballyboden St Endas), Christmas Day, 10.00am - 11.30am, Marlay Park, Rathfarnham, D16, St. Stephen’s Day, 11:00am - 1pm and Corkagh Park Car Park, Clondalkin (meet at main car park), St. Stephen’s Day, 12:00pm.

PRESENTATION OF ART OF KATHERINE GEOGHEGAN

JOURNEY TOWARDS VISION ZERO ROAD SAFETY ACTION PLAN 2022 – 2024

South Dublin County Council (SDCC) launch their Road Safety Action Plan 2022 –2024 which outlines 27 key actions that supports the work of the 5th Government Road Safety Strategy (GRSS) 2012 – 2030 “Our Journey Towards Vision Zero.” Vision Zero is Ireland’s long-term goal of achieving zero road deaths or serious injuries by 2050. SDCC recognises that while a combined national approach is required to make a noticeable and long-lasting change to our roads, Local Authorities have a responsibility to work at the local level to bring about this change. We have statutory obligations under the Roads Act 1993, but we also have a social obligation to the people of South Dublin County and all those who traverse our roads network.

Creating the safest roads possible and raising awareness among road users of the risks associated with roads and promoting responsible behavior when

using them, is an extremely high priority for SDCC. The Council’s action plan aims to identify areas where we can promote and improve road safety within our County.

In addition, we will create and publish annual action plans to help support our 2022 – 2024 plan and use 11 Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs) to help monitor our road safety performance.

Mr Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive, South Dublin County Council said “South Dublin County Council is acutely aware of the importance of road safety and our obligations to all road users. We are also extremely mindful of our climate action obligations, including the need to reduce the number of trips by motorised transport. This requires an even greater awareness and focus on road safety for those that cycle, scoot, walk and use public transport. With that

in mind, this action plan has a set of 27 actions aimed at supporting the long-term strategy of Vision Zero by 2050.”

Mayor Emma Murphy, South Dublin County Council said “There is an increase in appetite for cycling and walking to work, college, and school. Whilst the change is slow, it is changing and very much welcomed if we are to meet our obligations to mitigate climate change factors. Those that cycle and walk are less protected than those that drive and require increased attention to improve the perception of safety associated with these modes. That said, the safety on our roads is not the responsibility of one organisation, but that of all stakeholders and road users. As Mayor of South Dublin, I am proud to launch this action plan and to be involved with efforts to improve road safety within our County.”

Cllr. Emma Murphy Mayor of South Dublin with Danny McLoughlin SDCC Chief Executive, Michael Mulhern Director of Land Use Planning and Transportation, Cllr Alan Edge, Cllr. Lyn Hagin Meade, Cllr Charlie O’Connor,. Cllr. Teresa Costello teacher Graham Ward and students from St Dominics NS at the launch of the Road Safety Action Plan

Pictured at the Presentation of Art of Katherine Geoghegan at the Warehouse Gallery, Killinarden, were (L to R) Cllr. Charlie O’Connor, Katherine Geoghegan, acting Mayor Mick Duff and Deputy Sean Crowe TD.

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL WIN LOCAL AUTHORITY INNOVATION AWARD

Mayor of South Dublin County Council (SDCC) Cllr Emma Murphy, SDDC Chief Executive Daniel McLoughlin and staff from South Dublin County Council attended the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards which were held in the Crown Plaza on Thursday 24th November, where the Council were nominated for an impressive 8 awards in 8 different categories and were shortlisted for the prestigious Local Authority of the Year Award.

The Council projects nominated included Tallaght District-heating Network in Climate Change, Women in Local Government in Diversity & Inclusion, Cycle South Dublin in Health & Wellbeing, Think Big Space in partnership with AWS in Local Authority Innovation, Grange Castle Business Park in Promoting Economic Development, Clondalkin Community Bicycle Hub

in Supporting Sustainable Communities, Sustainable Drainage Guidance Project in Sustainable Environment & NOISE Music in Sustaining the Arts.

Accepting the award for the Local Authority Innovation Award on behalf of South Dublin County Council were Mayor Cllr Emma Murphy and County Librarian Paul Fusco for the Think Big Space project, in partnership with AWS. The AWS Think Big Space is a new educational lab located beside the Tallaght Luas stop, which aims to inspire an interest in science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths. It provides a dedicated space for students, educators, and communities to explore innovative and imaginative ideas through interactive hands-on technical education. AWS has opened AWS Think Big Spaces across the world; however, this is the first AWS Think Big

Space to launch in Europe.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council, Danny Mc Loughlin said: “I am delighted to see so many South Dublin County Council projects nominated for the Excellence in Local Government Awards. This is testament to the quality, creativity, and innovation of our staff across the entire organisation. I would like to congratulate the libraries team and of course our partners AWS for the introduction and development of the Think Big Space in Tallaght which won the Local Authority Innovation Award. This innovative project highlights how progressive our Library Services are and will help and encourage South Dublin children to develop and hone their creative thinking.”

Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr. Emma

Murphy, who collected the award said: “It is with great pride that I accepted this award alongside County Librarian Paul Fusco. The Libraries Team work hard to create inclusive library spaces for all the citizens of the county. The Think Big Space was created in

partnership with AWS and is the first of its type in Europe. This project provides an interactive learning space and encourages interest in STEAM topics. I would also like to congratulate all the nominated projects and associated staff teams. I am immensely proud

that our local authority was nominated in eight categories and shortlisted for the Local Authority of the Year. This is an acknowledgement of all the hard work and the range of innovative projects being delivered to South Dublin citizens.”

MINISTER FEIGHAN LAUNCHES CLONDALKIN SLÁINTECARE HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

Minister of State for Public Health, Well Being and National Drugs Strategy, Frank Feighan T.D. delivered a video address to officially launch Clondalkin as a Sláintecare Healthy Communities area at an event in Rowlagh Community Centre on Friday 9th December.

The programme began with Deputy Mayor Tuffy meeting Tom James, Head of Health and Wellbeing Programme, Department of Health, Margaret McQuillan, Head of Health and Wellbeing, Dublin South Kildare & West Wicklow (DSKWW) Community Healthcare and Colm Ward, Director of Services Housing, Social and Community Development of South Dublin County Council. There was also an opportunity for attendees to meet and get photographs with the speakers, organisers and community partners who are involved in the programme delivery in the Clondalkin Sláintecare Healthy Community area. Also on hand for the event were local TD’s and South Dublin County Councillors Gino Kenny TD, Cllr Eoin Ó’Broin, Cllr Shane Moynihan, Cllr Guss O’Connell, Cllr. Madeleine Johansson and Cllr Tara Deacy, Dublin City Council.

The speaker portion of the event took place thereafter in Rowlagh Community Centre. Jennifer Moroney Ward, Senior Executive Officer, Social and Community Development, South Dublin County Council opened the event by introducing the Deputy Mayor of South Dublin Joanna Tuffy, who began by stating “..it gives me great pleasure to welcome the [Sláintecare Healthy Communities] programme to Clondalkin and I am sure it will be well

received by the people living and working in Clondalkin.”

The Deputy Mayor went on to introduce Minister Feighan’s video address. In his speech Minister Feighan stated “Sláintecare Healthy Communities is a collective programme where we all work together to ensure that our communities in greatest need are supported to live longer, healthier lives. The programme works here in Clondalkin in partnership with South Dublin County Council, the HSE, South Dublin County Partnership and Deansrath Family Centre to help promote and improve the health and wellbeing of the community. The Programme will support not only the physical and mental health of the people of Clondalkin; but will also support improvement in the wider determinants of health such as in education, housing, social support and the built environment.”

Following this Tom James, Head of Health and Wellbeing Programme, Department of Health spoke about the Programme for Government. He said “Our Shared Future is committed to tackling health inequalities based on race, gender and socio-economic background…. I believe passionately that we must invest in all of our communities, especially those in greatest need, so that none are left behind.”

Margaret McQuillan HSE Dublin South Kildare, West Wicklow Head of Health and Wellbeing spoke next, discussing the variety of different programmes that are available in the local Clondalkin area as part of the Sláintecare Healthy

Communities programme including; Stop Smoking Service, We Can Quit, Parenting Programmes, Healthy Food Made Easy, Social Prescribing and Making Every Contact Count. She highlighted that: ‘’each of these evidence-based programmes have been designed to empower and support people to help make healthier lifestyle choices to improve their overall health and wellbeing. These services are free, readily available and accessible to all now’’.

Attendees had the opportunity to be introduced to and hear from the Clondalkin coordinators for each of these programmes via audio-visual broadcast. The highlight of the event however was the screening of videography from local service users who have participated in these programmes.

Jodie, Carmel, Barbara, Andrea and Betty gave powerful first-hand accounts of the impact these programmes have had on their lives and encouraged others to get involved.

Jennifer Moroney Ward of South Dublin County Council spoke on behalf of her colleague Colm Ward. She touched on the Sláintecare Community Enhancement projects in Clondalkin and the potential of the Healthy Communities programme to make a real difference in the Sláintecare areas of Clondalkin in relation to the determinants of health going forward. She concluded the speaking portion of the speeches by acknowledging the close collaboration between all partners to bring this to reality: “The Sláintecare approach acknowledges the effectiveness of collaborative working and it is rewarding to see this programme launched here in

Clondalkin, where groups and agencies have a long history of partnership, working to deliver on community development programmes”

Jennifer then closed the speaker portion of the event by thanking everyone for attending and introducing a performance by the Clondalkin Recovery Choir.

Following the speaker portion of the event, Deputy Mayor Tuffy and Tom James had the opportunity to engage directly with Health and Wellbeing staff, community partners, and other persons in attendance. They spoke with Áine Buggy HSE Sláintecare Healthy Communities co-ordinator, David Morrissey, Clondalkin Sláintecare Healthy Communities Local Development Officer and Keith Ryan HSE Health Promotion and Improvement Officer who were integral in supporting the roll out of these programmes in Clondalkin.

Clondalkin is now officially launched as a designated Sláintecare Healthy Community location. The visit served as an opportunity to showcase all the services and supports available to promote health and wellbeing for the people of the area. The Clondalkin Sláintecare Healthy Communities programme has generated strong collaboration between the HSE, South Dublin County Council, South Dublin County Partnership and Deansrath Family Centre. The event organisers wished to thank all community partners and members of the public who attended, along with the staff of the Rowlagh Community Centre who were on hand to support the event.

LOCAL WESTSIDERS TAKE TO THE STAGE

WestSiders take to the stage in Toy Show The Musical. After rigorous auditions and

the suspenseful wait for that yes phone call. This Christmas Gillian Charles

12, Harley Cullen Walsh 10, Joseph Dunne 5, Lilymai Clancy 14 and Zachary

Kilduff 10 will be making their professional debut in the highly anticipated original Irish Musical TOY SHOW THE MUSICAL.

Lilymai plays the role of Maisie, Joseph plays the role of Luan while Harley, Gillian and Zachary join the ensemble. Between an enjoyable rehearsal schedule these young performers have been keeping up their training in the performing arts at WestSide, singing, dancing and acting while inspiring their peers and feeling the full support of the WestSide Team behind them, as they follow in many before them!

Catch them shining bright in what’s sure to be a magical experience for all running from December 10th at The Convention Centre.

METHEALTH WINS UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN’S 2022 START-UP OF THE YEAR AWARD

MetHealth, an earlystage start-up focused on transforming obesity care, has recently been announced as the winner of the 2022 University College Dublin (UCD) Start-Up of the Year Award. MetHealth, won the Award, and a €30,000 prize fund, after being declared overall winner of the 2022 UCD VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme. The annual Programme, which is run by NovaUCD, aims to support the creation and launch of sustainable and profitable new start-ups emerging from the University.

The announcement took place as part of the 2022 NovaUCD Investor Day event. At this event some 27 NovaUCD client companies, which between them are seeking to raise in excess of €100 million in Seed or Series A funding, pitched to an invited audience of venture capitalists and private investors. MetHealth is developing

a biomarker-based riskstratification platform and associated digital health solution that can identify patients with complications of obesity, including liver disease. The platform supports clinical decision making and enhanced delivery of personalised care for individual patients.

The members of the MetHealth team are; Dr Fiona McGillicuddy, who took part in the VentureLaunch programme, and Professor Stephen Pennington, UCD School of Medicine and UCD Conway Institute, Associate Professor Catherine Mooney, UCD School of Computer Science and UCD Conway Institute, Dr Rachel Byrne, UCD School of Medicine, Dr Anna Antoniadi, UCD School of Computer Science and Aleksandra Dudzik, UCD School of Medicine.

Dr Fiona McGillicuddy said, “The global prevalence of obesity is increasing significantly. In the EU alone

some 1.2 million people are dying annually due to obesity complications, including from liver disease.”

“Early identification of

those patients with liver inflammation is key but this currently involves painful invasive tests. We are developing a novel biomarker-based platform technology which can, using a blood sample, stratify patients with obesity who are at high risk of complications of obesity including liver disease. This non-invasive test eliminates pain for the patient, is significantly more cost effective than an invasive test, can lead to early interventions for high-risk patients and can aid clinical trial recruitment for new drugs targeting the liver.”

She added, “On behalf of the MetHealth team I am delighted to win the 2022 UCD Start-Up of the Year Award following the completion of the VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme at NovaUCD. We currently plan to spinout of UCD at the end of 2023 when we will be seeking to raise €2 million in seed funding to set up the MetHealth laboratory and develop a market ready prototype.”

The main objective of the UCD VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme is to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and understanding that will be required to work as part of a team leading a new commercial venture.

On completion of the programme the expectation is that participating new ventures will have developed a commercially viable business plan.

The programme consisted of eight workshops delivered over a two-month period from October to November at NovaUCD. The Business Model Canvas approach to start-up development forms the basis of the programme with each session consisting of a mix of taught content and interactive workshops delivered by external experts as well as involving talks from entrepreneurs.

Participants also gain expert mentoring on marketing, finance and funding, sales and pitching to investors.

Tom Flanagan, Director of Enterprise and Commercialisation, UCD said, “I would like to congratulate MetHealth, which is focused on transforming obesity care, on winning this year’s VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme. NovaUCD looks forward to working with the MetHealth team to support them to meet their global ambitions.” He added, “This year’s VentureLaunch final took place as part of the NovaUCD Investor Day event during which some 27 UCD spin-in and spin-out companies pitched to members of the VC and private investor

community. Between them these companies are currently seeking to raise over €100 million in funding to support them to grow and scale which is an indication of the quality and ambition of NovaUCD client companies.”

In addition to the 2022 UCD Start-up of the Year Award MetHealth receives a prize package worth €30,000, which includes a €10,000 cash prize sponsored by AMD, a professional service package sponsored by Deloitte and Bryan Maguire Financial Services and incubation space at NovaUCD.

The 2022 UCD VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme evaluation panel, which selected the overall winner following pitches by this year’s finalists, was chaired by Dr Helen McBreen, Atlantic Bridge. The other members of the panel were; William Byrne, Illumina Ventures; Brendan Farley, AMD, Samira Kaissi, Lightstone Ventures and Alan O’Connell, Seroba.

The other participants on this year’s programme in addition to MetHealth were, Cymantic Medical, Infraprint, Kapitly and LaNua. Cymantic Medical, Infraprint, LaNua and MetHealth are currently being supported through the Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund.

MOTORING LIFE WITH

NEW KIA SPORTAGE PHEV IS IMPRESSIVELY TALENTED

By Breda Corrigan

The new Kia Sportage is a mid-size five-seat SUV that is marked out by some distinctive and striking design details. The broad front grille and small, angular headlight units, along with boomerang-shaped daytime running lights, provide terrific visual drama when viewed head-on, while the rear tailgate design is reminiscent of the allelectric EV6. The distinctive rear lights emphasise the wide stance of the new Sportage, with the integrated rear spoiler adding a dose of sportiness to the mix.

Petrol & Electric Powertrain.

The new Sportage PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) features a powertrain that consists of a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, a 90bhp electric motor and a 13.8kWh battery pack that provides an allelectric combined driving range of up to 70km (up to 78km in city-only driving). This set-up has a total output of 265PS (261bhp) and 350Nm of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels. Kia’s award-winning T-GDI engine features Continuous Variable Valve Duration (CVVD), a sophisticated technology that controls the duration of valve lift to dramatically improve performance, fuel economy and emissions. The state-ofthe-art battery pack features a high-tech battery management unit that constantly monitors the state of the battery, including factors such as current, voltage, isolation and fault diagnosis. The pack also has an advanced cell monitoring unit that measures and monitors cell voltage and temperature. Charging the Sportage PHEV can be done via a domestic socket in five and three-quarter hours (10-100%), but

the same charge can be completed in just one and three-quarter hours via a 7.2kW wallbox charger or at a public charger.

Spacious Cabin & Boot.

The packaging for the Sportage PHEV has been carefully arranged to minimise impact on passenger and luggage space. The Lithium-ion polymer battery is placed centrally between the two axles under the body of the SUV, ensuring a balanced weight distribution, and an interior space that is practical, comfortable and versatile. The cabin in the new Sportage delivers an outstanding experience in comfort, quality, design and cutting-edge technology, thereby creating a driver-centric experience designed around the driver and passengers. Sitting at the centre of the sporty cockpit is a beautifully sculpted curved display, integrating a 12.3” driver instrument cluster and a 12.3” high-tech multimedia touchscreen plus multimode display. A touch-sensitive panel below the main screen switches between climate and infotainment controls, and this reduces the number of buttons on the dash without relegating everything to the screen. The spacious cabin in the new Sportage looks upmarket, it feels well built, and it is logically laid out too. Ingeniously, Kia has fitted USB-C sockets in the sides of the front seats and useful hook-shaped headrests boost the Sportage’s versatility further. Boot space measures in at an impressive 540-litres with the rear seatbacks in place, but by simply pulling two levers set into the side of the cargo area the space on offer increases to 1,715-litres. Safety is a strong point too, with the Sportage gaining a five-

star Euro NCAP crash-test rating earlier this year. The rating applies across all the trim levels and powertrains that make up the Sportage range.

Two Trim Variants.

The Sportage PHEV is available in two trim variants – K3 and K4 – both of which enjoy the reassurance of all-wheel drive capability as standard. Key standard equipment fitted to both variants includes 19” alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, smart cruise control, highway driving assist, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, and power adjustable front seats, along with Kia Connect (UVO Connectivity) which enables drivers to remotely control certain functions, receive notifications and check the vehicle’s status. Additionally, drivers will also benefit from MyKia and Kia Charge applications. MyKia is where drivers can access personalised information about their vehicle, view the latest Kia news, enter exclusive Kia prize draws, and can gain access to an online service booking portal. Kia Charge makes access to Ireland and Europe’s public charging stations easy. You can find a station, charge and pay, all from one account. The K4 model adds full leather trim, drivers’ memory seat, ventilated as well as heated front seats, a 12.3” driver cluster and a wireless smartphone charger.

Test Car.

My test car was a new Sportage K3 1.6 PHEV which was finished in Black Pearl metallic paintwork (a €600 cost option) with Black Saturn cloth and faux leather seat upholstery. There are several driving

modes to choose from including EV, Hybrid and Automatic, with the latter mode tasked with deciding how best to blend petrol and electric power sources itself. The Sportage PHEV also has Eco and Sport modes, along with mud/snow/sand modes for optimal assistance in offroad or slippery conditions. In all-electric mode the Sportage is quiet, while the petrol engine cuts in with the minimum of fuss, with no shunt from the transmission and not much in the way of noise from under the bonnet either. Fitting a plug-in hybrid drivetrain to the Sportage hasn’t affected its versatility in any way, and it is impossible to tell the difference between the PHEV and the standard car from within the cabin. The highperformance nature of the Sportage PHEV makes it a fun-to-drive SUV, with a 0-100km sprint possible in just 8.2-seconds, while fuel consumption as low as 1.1l/100km is possible if every journey is commenced with a fully charged battery. Steering response and cornering stability are improved with a new Kia ‘e-handling’ system that adds a form of torque vectoring to the PHEV.

Pricing & Warranty.

The new Sportage is the fifth-generation of Kia’s global best-seller, and although the last model did very well for the brand, it seems that Kia have excelled themselves with this all-new model. This latest PHEV offers buyers of mid-size SUVs the opportunity of entering the world of petrol and electric power for the first time. The new Sportage K3 PHEV is priced at €46,000 (ex-delivery) with the K4 PHEV priced at €48,000 (exdelivery). All Kia passenger cars come with a 7-year/150,000km warranty as standard.

OPEL MOKKA ELECTRIC NOW DELIVERS EVEN MORE RANGE

The best-selling batteryelectric vehicle in the B-SUV segment in Germany in October and November 2022 is becoming even more powerful, efficient, and attractive, and has a new name. The Opel Mokka Electric, formerly the Opel Mokka-e, winner of the Golden Steering Wheel 2021 and Continental Tyres Irish Small SUV of the Year 2022, will be available with a larger battery and more power in the future.

With the new 54 kWh battery, Mokka Electric drivers can cover up to 406km instead of up to 338km emission-free, a significant improvement in range of 20%. At the same time, energy consumption has decreased to 15.2 kWh per 100 kilometres (WLTP) and 80% state-of-charge is reached in just 30 minutes at a 100 kW DC charging

station. Florian Huettl, Opel CEO, said: “’e’ becomes ‘Electric’. With the new suffix, we underline that the Opel Mokka offers even more electric driving fun. It is an electric vehicle that is unparalleled in its segment. Ever since it was launched, our extraordinary compact SUV has impressed people with its bold and pure design, individual character and proven suitability for everyday use. And with a new electric drive and larger battery, we are now making the Mokka Electric even more powerful, even more efficient, and better. That is the Opel approach to well thought-out ‘Greenovation’.”

The stylish Mokka was the first Opel to wear the new brand face, the Opel Vizor, and was also the first Opel with the fully digitised

Pure Panel cockpit. In addition, it was the first Opel available from launch with fully electric drive as well as highly efficient combustion engines, thus giving customers the choice of which drive suits their needs best. That choice is already predominantly electric. In November, no less than 65% of all Mokka customers in Germany opted for the batteryelectric variant.

The range of up to 406km (WLTP) promises every day, enduring electric driving fun in the city as well as on longer journeys. The energy is stored in the new, 54 kWh lithium-ion battery. The engineers attached great importance to efficient packaging and were thus able to ensure an exemplary range with a compact battery size. As

with all fully electric Opel models, the 54 kWh battery is practically installed in the underbody. Thus, no space is lost in the passenger or luggage compartment and the Mokka Electric has excellent roadholding qualities. The vehicle’s low center of gravity increases safety and driving pleasure. With an output of 115 kW/156 hp and maximum torque of 260 Newton meters that is immediately available with the first tap of the accelerator, the Mokka Electric ensures brisk starts and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h.

Depending on their preference, Mokka Electric drivers can choose between the three driving modes Eco, Normal and Sport. In

Eco mode, the vehicle is most energy-efficient in favour of the overall range.

Thanks to a state-of-theart regenerative braking system, the Mokka Electric can also recuperate energy when decelerating or braking. The electric motor then converts the forward momentum into electricity. If the driver shifts the transmission into the B mode, recuperation and braking torque increase. And when the compact SUV has to “refuel”, the 54 kWh battery can be recharged to up to 80% state-of-charge in around 30 minutes at a 100 kW DC charging station.

The Mokka Electric has this fast-charging function as standard. In addition to direct current, Opel drivers can also charge via a wall box or with a cable for the household socket.

Efficiency and comfort are a given in the Mokka Electric. Numerous heating systems and technologies from the standard heat pump to the practical myOpel app, which can be used to program the conditioning by remote control, ensure a cosy atmosphere right from the start, especially during the colder months of the year.

The Mokka Electric with more power and a longer range is another example of how Opel is consistently pushing ahead with its electric offensive. Twelve electrified Opel models are already available today, including a range of light commercial vehicles. By 2024, the manufacturer will also offer every model in an electrified version. And by 2028, Opel will become an all-electric brand in Europe.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT YOUR SUV HAS THE CORRECT TYRES

Over the past ten to 15 years, Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have come to dominate the car sales charts in Ireland. So far this year, SUVs account for eight out of the top ten selling vehicles across the country, from the Nissan Qashqai to the Hyundai Tucson, and more compact options like the Ford Puma and the Opel Mokka.

As well as being practical, the SUVs in the market now are considered to be some of the most comfortable cars that money can buy. But while much of their appeal is down to the features and technology onboard an SUV – it’s also a result of their shape and design, which is inspired by their off-road heritage. Research by Continental Tyres has shown that the main reason SUV or 4x4 owners purchased their car was for the elevated driving position and extra headroom, leg room and storage space. And because their roof lines don’t sweep down

towards the boot of the car as they do on a saloon or estate, visibility is improved, and space can be used more effectively.

Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland says: “SUVs have become very much the predominant vehicle choice for car buyers in Ireland. SUVs are generally larger and thus, heavier than a traditional hatchback or sedan so drivers of SUVs need to keep that fact in mind when it comes to replacing tyres on their vehicle. Another important consideration for SUV drivers is how and where they generally drive their vehicle”.

Continental has put together a checklist to run through when you’re thinking about tyres for your SUV. Is it electric, hybrid or does it have a traditional combustion engine? How powerful is it? How large and heavy is it? Do you often tow heavy loads? Is it an AWD (all-wheel drive), 4WD (four-

wheel drive/4X4/four-by-four) or 2WD (two-wheel drive)? Do you often face tough conditions like gravel, mud, snow, and steep inclines? And will you use it in the city or suburban areas?

Dennigan continued: “It’s important first to consider the capability of your SUV – and then what you’re going to ask of it. Most small to medium SUVs will come fitted with summer on-road tyres on the basis they’re going to be used for 100 per cent on-road driving. Larger SUVs and 4x4s may well come with tyres that have a degree of off-road and/or all-season capability. Larger SUVs and 4x4s may well come with tyres that have a degree of off-road and/ or all-season capability. “If you regularly use off-road tyres on tarmac, you might be in for a hard, noisy ride. And vice versa – use on-road tyres on irregular terrain, and you’re likely to struggle for grip. Get

it right though, and you’ll enjoy the best experience at the wheel of your SUV, with maximum safety and comfort for everyone on board”.

Like most manufacturers, Continental Tyres has special ranges of tyres designed for SUVs. The CrossContactRX – which comes fitted to the new Land Rover Defender 130 – is designed for 90 per cent on-road driving, and 10 per cent off-road. Or if you want more off-road capability than that, the CrossContact ATR is designed for 70 per cent on-road and 30 per cent off-road use.

Continental has also adapted its tyres to suit the specific needs of electric and hybrid SUVs – where the weight of the battery is an extra consideration. The Mercedes EQC, Kia Niro, Kia EV6 and Polestar 2 all come fitted with specially designed SUV tyres from Continental.