cLondaLkIn news punters beware
©
by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly
A disgruntled betting shop customer who thought he had backed a 40/1 winner was “very disappointed” to be told his bet was void – because it was placed 3 seconds after the off. Keith Russell has been a customer of Ladbrokes at the Fortunestown Shopping Centre for almost two decades but was left unhappy after
a recent incident at the betting office.
The Ardmore man explained that he was placing a number of bets and decided to back a horse in a virtual race – placing €2 on a 40/1 outsider.
Keith remained in the shop while the race was on and thought his luck
was in when the virtual horse he backed romped home, however, upon trying to cash in his bet the punter was told he would not be paid. He said: “I was a regular customer and have been going into the shop for 20 years. I never had a problem there before and knew
the manager well. I wouldn’t be one for putting on late bets and I have never had any trouble in the shop. “I put €2 on a virtual race and the horse won at 40/1 so they owed me €82 – when I handed in the docket I was told it was 1 second late. I
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was in the shop the whole time and no-one told me I was late. If that horse lost the docket would have gone in the bin and they weren’t giving me my €2 back.” Tallaght man The queried the manager who confirmed that the bet was placed 3 seconds after the off and told Keith that it was void and offered him his €2 back.
He said: “People often have late bets accepted but what I really want to know is how much money are they making when people have late bets that are void but the customer thinks it is a loser and throws the docket away?”
After taking his case to Ladbrokes Head Office Keith claims he was told that the situation was in the hands of the shop management but he has not returned to try and claim his prize. He said: “It is just very
design & editorial John Russell john@newsgroup.ie
administration Sarah Brooks Office Manager admin@newsgroup.ie
disappointing because I have been going there for years.”
A spokesperson for Ladbrokes told Newsgroup that bets placed after a race has started will be deemed invalid and customers will be refunded their stake. She also confirmed that because start times for virtual races cannot be over written by staff authorization cannot be given to accept late bets. She said: “Our rules clearly state under time of acceptance ‘Bets are valid if accepted before the official off (start) time, or before the automated ‘off slip’ time processed by our EPOS system. Bets accepted after the automated ‘off slip’ time processed by our EPOS system will be void, except where prior authorisation is given at the discretion of our staff.’ “In this case at our shop in Fortunestown
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would surly not accept the bet as it has done so before. Keith advises punters to check all losing dockets as they may be entitled to their stake back.
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clearly countdown displayed on the shop screens for customers' information.” can not Keith understand why the bet was accepted if it was late, as the system
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TWEET OF THE WEEK
by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly
This week Pieta House, Centre for the Prevention of Self-Harm and Suicide, celebrated 10 years in existence. What started in a house in Lucan in January 2006 has grown into an international organization which helps thousands of people in crisis each year. Founder Joan Freeman credits the support of ordinary people with the success of the organization. She said: “We're 10 today and because of you and your generosity we have survived." Pieta House is our Tweet of the Week for this edition…
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new burGLary act wILL heLp keep repeat burGLars oFF the streets oF south dubLIn
Fine Gael candidate for Dublin South West Karen Warren has said that the new Burglary Act will help keep repeat burglars off the streets of South Dublin and improve the safety of our community. “The Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, announced that the Criminal Justice (Burglary of Dwellings) Act 2015 has come into operation. This is an important new act and means that from today bail can be denied to repeat offenders.
“The problem of repeat burglaries is an issue for many people in South Dublin. Statistics provided by the Garda Síochána show that 75% of burglaries are committed by 25% of burglars. This important Act allows for bail to be denied, and consecutive sentences to be given, to repeat burglars. It’s my hope
that the act will reduce crime rates and it will be a key weapon in the battle against crime. “Home is the place where we should all feel most safe and secure. This is why Minister Fitzgerald is targeting those who commit burglaries. This Bill will help to keep repeat burglars off the streets and to improve the safety of our communities. “The new Burglary Act also provides an important additional layer of support to Gardaí in implementing Operation Thor. These new provisions for tougher sentences and stricter bail for repeat offenders will now be available when persons charged as part of Operation Thor come before the courts. Operation Thor, which was launched in November 2015, is a multi-strand national anti-crime and antiburglary operation. It
involves a broad range of activities to tackle crime, particularly burglaries. “This Government has reopened Templemore after it was closed by Fianna Fáil; €46 million has been allocated for Garda vehicles, many of which will be highpower vehicles for targeted operations; €18 million is being provided for the refurbishment of Garda stations and €205 million has been invested in new technology for An Garda Síochána. This is part of an unprecedented allocation of €875 million in capital funding for the Justice sector.
plan to keep the recovery going. Our plan will deliver more and better new jobs
“The economic recovery, brought about by the policies of this Government and the hard work of the Irish people, means we can now invest more in key public services, Fine Gael has a long term
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and will allow us to continue targeted investment in areas like crime prevention.”
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chILdren to beneFIt FroM Labour's chILdcare pLan 6
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“We have an ambitious and detailed plan to put in place a national childcare scheme”
Families across the country will potentially benefit from Labour's plan to introduce a €2 per hour childcare system, Labour candidate for Dublin South West Cllr Pamela Kearns has said.
Speaking at the launch of the Labour’s ‘Standing Up For Working Families’ campaign, Cllr Kearns, who is a childcare professional, said: “This state has never sufficiently invested in childcare. As the economy recovers, Labour will change that for once and for all. “We have an ambitious and
detailed plan to put in place a national childcare scheme. "It proposes that parents will be allowed to access subsidised childcare for all children under the age of 12 covering pre-school – children as well as after school care. “We will move immediately to cap the cost of childcare for all children under 12 to €4.25 per hour for up to 40 hours of childcare a week in 2017. By 2021, the cost to parents will be €2 per hour, for up to 40 hours per week. “When Labour entered Government in 2011 we had
to make a number of difficult decisions that were necessary to put this country back on a stable path. “Having persevered and restored the public finances, I am pleased that we now have the room to invest in families and childcare
Dublin County Council to ensure that the National Flag was displayed.
Defence Forces will take place outside County Hall prior to the Council Meeting due to take place on the 11th April 2016 to mark the centenary of the 1916 Rising” He added that he expected that this decision by the Council will be warmly welcomed throughout the community.
“Labour in government has reduced the USC for middle and low income workers, increased child benefit, introduced a second year of pre-school education and implemented free GP care for under 6’s.
coMMeMoratIon pLans weLcoMed
Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has welcomed confirmation by Council Management that the National Flag will be displayed at Council Headquarters to commemorate the Anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising. He had raised the matter with the CEO of South
According to Charlie O’Connor, he has now been told by Council Management that “as part of South Dublin County Council’s Centenary Programmed a special flag raising ceremony with the Irish
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“Furthermore, our plan will extend paid parental leave by 3 months over the next
five years and will reduce the cost of childcare, extend parental leave and
paid paternity leave, and continue to roll out free GP care for every child.”
Minister Frances Fitzgerald, local TD for Lucan has warmly welcomed the by the announcement Minister for Sports Michael Ring TD that the government funding scheme for local authority swimming pools has now reopened for the first time since 2000. Letters have issued to all local authorities seeking applications for a limited number of new pools. The deadline for applications is 29th January. Frances stated: "As local TD I have been a consistent supporter of the campaign for a Lucan Swimmign Pool. Last year I facilitated a meeting between Minister for Sports Michael Ring and the CEO of South Dublin County Council Danny McLoughlin to seek to secure the reopening of Governemnt funding." "I promised that government
funding would reopen. This promise is now delivered!" "With support from South Dublin County Council and the political pressure I have applied, Lucan is now in a compelling position to secure Government funding for our Swimming Pool, to
match the funding commitments from the Council."
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"I wish to congratulate the community-led #Pool4Lucan campaign on their efforts locally in lobbying for funding for the pool."
Minister Frances Fitzgerald, local TD for Lucan with Minister for Sports Michael Ring and the CEO of South Dublin County Council Danny McLoughlin
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Jan 20th 2016: 1,245 new Jobs announced
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Jan 20th 2011: FF’s botched reshuFFLe as 300,000 Jobs Lost
The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton TD has said that the announcement of 1,245 new jobs, marks not only an excellent day for workers, but signifies a stark contrast to the chaotic economic situation in 2011, when jobs were haemorrhaging and Fianna Fáil attempted a botched reshuffle.
“On 20th January 2011, Fianna Fáil were scrambling, and failing, to deal with the economic crash as 300,000 jobs were lost across the country. Brian Cowen announced a botched reshuffle where Ministers were double or triple jobbing. Unbelievably Mary Hanafin became the Minister for Tourism, Sport & Culture, and Minister for
Enterprise, Trade & Employment. “Five years later 1,245 jobs have been announced in one day, adding to the 135,000 that have been created since the launch of the Action Plan for Jobs in 2012. Over the past year the economy has been creating over 1,000 jobs a week and unemployment has fallen from a high of 15.1% to
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8.8%. “Meanwhile Fianna Fáil are still scrambling, and failing, to come up with a jobs policy. It’s the same old Fianna Fáil. They ruined the economy through their policies in the 2000s which ignored competitiveness and neglected exports. When the crash came, destroying 300,000 jobs, they made it worse by heaping taxes on work.
show that they have not learned the lesson that high taxes on work kill jobs. “As part of our jobs plan this Government committed to no increases in tax on work and delivered that in the most difficult years. As soon as the recovering economy permitted we started the process of reducing Fianna Fáil’s tax hikes by cutting the USC, and we have committed to abolishing it in the lifetime of the next government. “Fine Gael has a long term plan to keep the recovery
going. Our plan will deliver more new jobs, spread right across the country, jobs that pay more than welfare, where hard work is rewarded. The plan will also deliver affordable, sustainable investments in services using the resources from growing employment. “Fianna Fáil failed in government and now they have failed in opposition. It’s the same old Fianna Fáil. They are a risk to recovery and have no real plan for this country’s future.”
exercIse vItaL to battLInG IreLand’s obesIty probLeM
Dublin Senator and Fine Gael candidate for Dublin West, Catherine Noone, has said that increasing the number of people taking regular exercise is vital if we are going to battle Ireland’s obesity problems.
“Ireland’s first ever National Physical Activity Plan, launched by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar and Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring will aim to get half a million more people taking regular exercise.
“Key features of the plan include a new annual campaign to encourage more people to get active more often, support for 500 new community walking groups, further training for health professionals on using physical activity to prevent or treat chronic conditions and a new push to get employers to encourage Healthy Workplace initiatives. “The emphasis here is very much on fun and enjoyment, and I would hope that the plan makes a real difference in increasing the levels of physical exercise and tackling the problem of obesity.”
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FaMILIes encouraGed to cLaIM the hoMe carers’ tax credIt
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Fine Gael Dublin West Senator, Catherine Noone, has encouraged families to claim the home carers’ tax credit, where one spouse is staying at home to care for or elderly children relatives. Senator Noone noted that the tax credit available to home carers was increased in the recent Budget.
“Many families do not seem to be aware of the home carers’ tax credit which is available where one spouse is staying at home to care for their children or their elderly or incapacitated
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Tax credit for home carers increased in Budget 2016
relatives. This is a really valuable assistance to families who wish to care for their relatives at home and it acknowledges the income many carers have to forgo income in order to complete their caring work at home. “In the recent Budget, the for Finance, Minister Michael Noonan, increased the home carer tax credit in by €190 which will bring it up to €1,000 with effect from 2016. Fine Gael will continue to work to keep the economic recovery going so that we can continue to deliver
improved services and opportunities for all such as this. I put a question to the Minister in the Seanad in relation to this tax credit, and the most recent figures show that approximately 82,500 families claimed it in 2013 at a cost to the Exchequer of approximately €61.9 million. There must be more families who qualify for this valuable tax credit and I encourage them to avail of it. “The tax credit is mainly available to single income families, but the home
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carer is allowed to earn a certain amount of income the credit is before withdrawn or reduced. The Budget changes however
are designed to be of specific benefit to lowfamilies by income increasing the income threshold below which the
credit can be claimed in full from €5,080 to €7,200. It will fully taper out once the home carer's income reaches €9,200.”
Zappone hosts taLLaGht’s LarGest ever FeMInIst event "2016 will be a year for Mná na hÉireann"
#FEMPOWER, a feminist conference organised by Independent General Election Candidate Katherine Zappone was held in Tallaght Stadium on January 16th. The event which was MC'd by former Rose Of Tralee Maria Walsh saw a host of brilliant women speak about the issues that matter to them and to women as a whole. Speakers included journalist Una Mullally, who called for a gender audit to be done in Irish media organisations to tackle the lack of women in leadership positions. Broadcaster and LGBT activist Dil Wickremasinghe discussed the Irish maternity care system and the issues she encountered while pregnant with her son, Phoenix. Lynn Ruane, former student of An Cosán and President of Trinity College Students Union spoke about the lack of avenues for working class and disadvantaged women to learn about feminism and the barriers to education many women in Tallaght face. "As feminists we need to fight for the education and income equality of working class women" Lynn added. Blogger and activist Sinead Burke gave a powerful talk
on disability, repealing the 8th amendment and why we should trust women. Rosaleen McDonagh, delivered a powerful speech about the decades-long discrimination Travellers, particularly traveller women have to face in their lifetimes. The former Director of Marriage Equality and now CEO of BeLongTo Moninne Griffith spoke about the referendum and why there is more work to be done to eradicate homophobic and
transphobic bullying from our schools. "Women in leadership is 50% leading and 50% supporting other women" There were then a series of questions from the floor, and a feminist fair where organisations like Women4Women, Abortion Rights Campaign and The Irish Sex Workers Alliance had enlightening conversations with attendees and speakers alike.
It was an inspiring and educational day for all, and Senator Zappone summed up the message and hopes for the day: "2016 will be a year for Mná na hÉireann."
saLe now on
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duFF caLLs For coMMunIty to be InvoLved In housInG aLLocatIons
Labour Councillor Mick Duff has said that the next government should legislate for provision to be made to involve community representatives in public housing tenanting and management decisions. "Local Authorities have used the shelter of the recession to withdraw from partnership with the local community on estates management and housing allocations and decisionmaking has been the worse
for it," Mick Duff said. Cllr Duff drew attention to public statistics that show that, depending on the geographic area, between 30% and 50% of housing applicants decline offers of housing. "I am satisfied that a large proportion of the refusals are because some public authority estates have been let run down and involvement by the community sector woudl avoid some of the mistakes," Cllr Duff said.
"I believe now that unless it is made mandatory the County Councils won't involve the community in a structured way. Therefore I have written to Environment Minister, Alan Kelly T.D. to point out that his â‚Ź3.8 billion social housing plan should be accompanied by a legal requirement to involve the local community in tenanting policy and estates management," Mick Duff said.
Fine Gael MEP for Dublin, Brian Hayes has said that paying for the bus, Luas or DART with your bank card may become reality. Mr Hayes has been campaigning for the introduction of contactless debit card payment on public transport in Dublin. Transport operators in London have introduced a similar system over a year ago.
confirmed to me that they are investigating the use of contactless bank cards for paying for public transport. A number of technical and payments experts have been hired to develop such a system. "London introduced their Oyster Card 8 years before Irelands' Leap Card. The Leap Card has been a great success but to make public transport more attractive and convenient we need to change with the times.
"There are great benefits to the contactless system. The biggest plus is that commuters would not need to worry about topping up their Leap Card. It would also encourage those that don't use public transport regularly and don't have a Leap Card to use public transport as they would avoid the much higher cash fare. "I hope that progress can be made throughout 2016 in developing this system."
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(FULL & PART TIME COURSES AVAILABLE)
coLLInstown park coMMunIty coLLeGe
An Open Day will be held in Collinstown Park Community College on Thursday 4th February 2016 from 9.30am – 1.30pm and from 7.00pm – 8.30pm for all those interested in attending a full or part time Adult / Further Education or Post Leaving Certificate course.
Collinstown Park Community College is located on the Neilstown Road in Rowlagh, Clondalkin about five minutes from the Liffey Valley Shopping Centre. The college has been successfully providing further education to adults for the past 20 years. Courses are available on a full time and part time basis and are open to students who have just completed their Leaving Certificate and adult students of all ages. The college welcomes mature students, including those with no formal
qualifications, who wish to increase their skills and gain qualifications or progress to Third Level College.
Courses are available in Health Care Support, Nursing Studies, Social and Community Care Early Childhood Care & Education, Special Needs Assistant, Hairdressing & Beauty Studies, Beauty Therapy, Reception & Office Administration, Business Studies with Computers, Computerised Payroll & Bookkeeping, FIT I.T. Support Technician & FIT IT Network Support & Administration (CCNA), ECDL, Return to Learning, English for Speakers of Other Languages. Full time courses give students the opportunity to gain a QQI Major Award over one year. Students can then progress to employment in their chosen area. Students who have completed a QQI
Level 5 course successfully may use their results to apply for a course in Institutes of Technology and Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme. Part time courses offer a flexible option to students to study at a pace that suits, allowing them to complete a QQI Major Award over two years. Social Protection recipients may be eligible to return to education under various schemes including VTOS/BTEA/BTEI. These schemes allow eligible adults return to education without losing their benefits. Our part-time courses are funded under the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI). Courses may be provided free of charge to eligible students in receipt of Social Protection payments/Medical Card holders or early school
leavers. Childcare assistance may be available on a limited basis for certain eligible students under the CETS Scheme. The Open Day on the 4th February will give all those
with an interest in studying at Collinstown Park College a Community chance to find out more about individual course content and talk to the course Tutors.
More inform ation is available on th e College website www.collinsto wnpark.ie or contact th e school at 01 4572300.
Collinstown Park Community College offers a broad range of courses including Business Studies with Computers
CoLLInsTown ParK CoMMunITy CoLLege Rowlagh, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 TEL: 01 4572300 www.collinstownpark.ie
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FIanna FaIL hypocrIsy Is crIMInaL
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Labour Party TD Eric Byrne has criticised Fianna Fail’s crime policy. Deputy Byrne commented: "According to their new crime policy, Fianna Fail want to introduce anti-crime measures at a cost of €104 million. Where do they expect to fund these proposals? From within the Garda force! “It is financially unsound to propose such measures – to take from one hand to give
to the other. It is ridiculous and only destabilises the force. "Then again, Fianna Fail peddled financially unsound policies for years while in power, so we should be anything but surprised by their latest trick. “Furthermore, Fianna Fáil has the audacity to complain about the of Garda closure stations - it is hypocrisy at its very worst. “In 2010, they agreed with the Troika to cut
Garda numbers from 14,500 to 13,500. It set us on the path to reducing the number of Gardai on the street and this government has been working hard to reverse that downward spiral ever since. “By fixing the economy and cleaning up the mess Fianna Fáil caused, we have been able to start to invest in An Garda Síochána again, as well much introducing
needed reforms. “Labour have re-started recruitment to An Garda Siochana – 550 new recruits by the end of 2015. Furthermore, Budget 2016 provided funding for the recruitment and training of an additional 600 Garda. “Fianna Fáil’s ill thought-out crime policy is just another poor attempt to get media headlines, regardless of the effect it may have on society."
urGent actIon needed to address rIsInG Motor Insurance costs
General Election Candidate for Fianna Fáil John Curran has called on the Government to take urgent action to address rising motor insurance costs. “The cost of car insurance jumped by 31% over the last twelve months, and industry experts are anticipating a further 25% rise in 2016. This effectively means that insurance holders who are currently paying a premium of €450 can expect their bill to increase to €600 when they are asked to renew their policies,” said John Curran. “These increases are unsustainable. The Government is talking up the economic recovery, but the massive spike in motor insurance is the clearest example yet of how household bills are
rising while wages remain stagnant. After meeting with many families in Dublin Mid-West in recent months they are informing me that they are buckling under the pressure of rising insurance, electricity and heating costs. “I’m calling on the Government to re-establish the Motor Insurance Advisory Board (MIAB). When MIAB was in place in the past insurance costs rose by 40% over an 11-year period. Without it costs are expected to rise by over 50% in a two year period. “MIAB has an important role to play in keeping costs down and protecting consumers. It must be put back in place to help stop soaring motor insurance costs,” said John Curran.
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extensIve patIent surveys conducted by taLLaGht hospItaL and Feedback prIorItIsed In the deveLopMent oF care
As part of its longstanding commitment to patient advocacy and ensuring a high quality patient experience, Tallaght Hospital undertook a Volunteer-Led Patient Survey Programme involving extensive patient surveys of inpatients and outpatients in 2015 to gather patient feedback and use it to improve services. Between July and November 2015, specially trained members of the Tallaght Hospital Volunteer Service in partnership with the Patient Advocacy Service interviewed 426 patients about their experiences at Tallaght Hospital. Working with the Picker Institute, personalised surveys
were designed for each patient that enabled volunteers to generate feedback on their experience of the treatment and facilities at Tallaght Hospital in an atmosphere of comfort and confidence.
The survey results were presented as a special Patient Survey Showcase event, held at Tallaght Hospital on the 20th of January. Guests included Peter Tyndall Ombudsman, Stephen McMahon of the Irish Patients Association, Dr. Philip Crowley of the HSE, Lisa yorke of the Picker Institute and representatives of Irish and UK hospitals and local patients’ representatives. Survey results revealed that the vast majority of
patients are happy with their experience at Tallaght Hospital, with 94% of inpatients responding that care was good, very good or excellent; 98% saying their hospital room or ward was clean and 95%
saying they had in the confidence nurses. Importantly, the survey was designed with the user in mind, to find improvements that are not always obvious to staff and regular visitors.
David Slevin CEO Tallaght Hospital Triona Murphy and Ritchie O'Reilly of Tallaght Hospital Action Group at the launch of the Patient Survey Programme Report
ILLeGaL prescrIptIon druG seLLInG shouLd be Made an oFFence
Dublin Senator and Fine Gael candidate for Dublin West, Catherine Noone, has called on the Minister for Health to consider adding the illegal sale of prescription pills to the Misuse of Drugs Act 2015. “There is a clear issue in Dublin City Centre around the sale and supply, illegally by individuals, of otherwise legal prescription medication. “The Gardaí seem unclear in their response to this and, as such, it is happening in plain sight on many of our main streets. This is unacceptable. “I believe there is a clear need to make this an arrestable offence, as prescription drugs – while legal – can still pose a threat unless distributed by a medical professional in appropriate doses.
“This practice can lead to individuals being needlessly hospitalised, due to not adhering to safe dosage limits. I would hope the Minister can look at this in the future, as it’s a change that could be enacted relatively quickly.
“The economic recovery, brought about by the policies of this Government and the hard work of the Irish people, means we can now invest more in targeting criminals. Fine Gael has a long term plan to keep the recovery going. Our plan will deliver more and better new jobs and will allow us to continue targeted investment in areas like crime prevention.”
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o’connor QuestIons sprInGFIeLd housInG scheduLe
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Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has responded to many local enquires from the Springfield area regarding previously announced proposals by South Dublin County Council for Housing Developments at Ashgrove/Fernwood/Lanndale Lawns and also at Maplewood Road. The new proposed Part 8 consultations had been postponed
and local residents were anxious to know the situation. Senior Council Management have now told Charlie O’Connor that “The Part 8 consultation will recommence from the 2nd quarter 2016. Full consultation with local residents will be carried out in line with statutory requirements for that programme.
For the purpose of the Council’s infill housing programme, the sites at Ashgrove/Fernwood/Lanndale Lawns (one site) and Maplewood Road sites will be progressed through the programme for social housing delivery in the 2nd quarter 2016”. According to Charlie O’Connor, he has also
asked Council Management to ensure that St Marks Residents Association, Springfield Estate, are included in the consultation process. He also said that it was important that the Council would take account of the concerns being expressed in the local community in respect of the Council’s proposals.
The legal Column
by Romaine Scally
Romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of ROMAINE SCALLY AND COMPANY SOLICITORS Main Street Tallaght, Dublin 24 TEL 4599506 FAX 4599510 email: legal@scally.ie 5. Changes to the rights of Landlords to terminate the Tenancy in various circumstances.
6. Allowing for the Enforcement of the Determination Orders at District Court level.
7. The introduction of a “slip or omission” rule for Notices of Termination.
IN THIS MONTH’S EDITION OF THE LOCAL PAPER ROMAINE SCALLy SOLICITOR OF ROMAINE SCALLy & COMPANy, SOLICITORS, MAIN STREET, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24 DEALS WITH THE NEW RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES (AMENDMENT) ACT 2015 ROMAINE SCALLY & CO. SOLICITORS, MAIN STREET, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24 TEL: 01 45 99 506 FAX: 01 45 99 510 EMAIL: legal@scally.ie WEB: www.romainescally.ie
Q. I am a Landlord with three houses which I let out. I am interested to know what the changes will be under the new act which the Minister for the environment announced before Christmas. Could you explain the main changes for Landlords and Tenants? A. The announcement by the Minister for the Environment, Community, and Local Government, Alan Kelly TD on November 10th 2015 last of a “new deal for Tenants” was welcomed in varying degrees, depending on whether or not you were a Landlord or a Tenant. The Act was passed into Law by both houses of the Oireachtas and signed into Law on 4th December 2015. The main changes are as follows: -
1. An increase in the number of months before rent reviews for Residential Tenancies.
2. A legal obligation on Landlords to notify their Tenants of their rights at the time of Rent Review. 3. A deposit protection scheme whereby deposits are lodged with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). 4. The provision of evidence by the Landlord to the Tenant that the rent increases are in line with the local market rate.
The most significant measure in the Bill is that, from the date of enactment of the Act, rent reviews for all residential tenancies may only take place every 24 months. Under the current legislation, rent reviews can take place every 12 months. The new provision will be subject to a sunset clause which will change the 24 month period back to a 12 month period in 4 years’ time. It appears therefore that the Government views this matter as a temporary solution and it is hoped that normal functioning market conditions will return in the next few years.
noTICe oF renT revIew A Landlord will be required to give their Tenant a minimum of 90 days’ notice as opposed to the 28 day Notice period which currently applies. When the Landlord is notifying their Tenant of a new rent, they must provide the Notification in a particular format and they will be required to provide information to the Tenant in relation to the Tenant’s rights under the Dispute Resolution procedures through the PRTB. Supporting information must accompany the Notice including information in relation to the rents of three similar dwellings in the area. Landlords are required to notify the PRTB of an increase of rent within 1 month and this provision will remain. Landlords will be required to submit a signed statement by the Tenant that they have been made aware of their rights and have been provided with the supporting documentation in relation to market rents.
noTICe PerIod For TenanCy TerMInaTIon The Act has introduced further Notice Periods for Tenancies longer than 4 years. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, Tenancies of 4 years of more require a Notice Period of 112 days where the Landlord terminates. The Bill further introduces graduated increases up to a maximum of 234 days as set out in the table below.
5 years or more but less than 6 years 140 days
6 years or more but less than 7 years 168 days
7 years or more but less than 8 years 196 days 8 years or more 234 days
Extended periods for termination by the Tenant will apply for Tenancies over 2 years in duration.
TerMInaTIon oF TenanCIes Under Section 34 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, there are six grounds set out in the table contained in that Section which provide for the termination of a Tenancy by a Landlord. The Act has amended this table to provide that a Landlord will have to explain in a written statement to a Tenant why a property might no longer be suitable for the Tenants accommodation needs, having regard to the number of beds, size, and composition of the Tenant’s household. A Landlord will have to make a Statutory Declaration where it is their intention to sell a property or where the property is to be occupied by the Landlord or a member of the Landlord’s family. Where the Landlord prepares to change the use of the property, a copy of the planning permission must be provided to the Tenant. The rationale behind these amendments is to further protect Tenants from so called unscrupulous Landlords who are using the existing provisions to terminate Tenancies. TenanCy regIsTraTIon In future, the PRTB will be notifying both Landlords and Tenants of the registration of the Tenancy. The parties will be advised of their rights and obligations and of the Dispute Resolution Procedure available through the PRTB.
dePosIT ProTeCTIon sCHeMe The new Act will require Landlords to lodge Tenancy deposits with the PRTB at the same time that they are registering their Tenancy. The PRTB will hold these deposits for the duration of the Tenancy in a designated Tenancy Deposit Account. The deposit will be paid to the Tenant at the end of the Tenancy if the Landlord agrees. Where there is no agreement between the Landlord and Tenant as to how the deposit is to be paid, the matter
will go to the PRTB for dispute resolution. Inevitably, there will be administrative delays in getting deposits back to Tenants or indeed, in forwarding them to Landlords in the event that there are genuine reasons to withhold a deposit.
noTICes oF TerMInaTIon Landlords and indeed Solicitors acting for Landlords will be aware of the very strict rules in relation to the format and content of Notices of Termination. The legislation has now been amended to provide that a “slip or omission” shall not of itself render a Notice of Termination invalid, provided it does not materially prejudice the Notice and the Notice is otherwise in compliance with the Act. This is to be welcomed for Landlords.
MorTgage InTeresT reLIeF Under existing rules, a Landlord is entitled to deduct 75% of their Mortgage Interest as an expense to their rental income for Income Tax purposes. To encourage private Landlords to rent their properties to Tenants in receipt of State Social Housing supports, such as Rent Supplement, a Landlord will be allowed to deduct 100% of their interest as an expense provided that the accommodation is available for a minimum of 3 years and the Tenancy is registered with the PRTB. Registration with the PRTB is an existing requirement to claim Mortgage Interest Relief and this does not change in the new legislation. However, the 3 year period is a substantial change and the benefit of the relief will be provided to the Landlord on a retrospective basis after the 3 year period has ended and, where necessary, certification is provided to confirm that the Terms of the Scheme were met. These changes are not as much an incentive as they might sound. In other tax incentives and reliefs, the relief is available immediately but there are clawback provisions if the provision of a particular relief is not met. In this case however, the Landlord cannot apply for the interest relief until after the three year period has elapsed.
These are the main changes to the new Landlord & Tenant Legislation which are primarily designed to protect Tenants rather than enhance the situation for Landlords. We hope that you have found this helpful. Further information can be obtained by reading the provisions of the Act itself or looking up details on the PRTB website.
In contentious business a Solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement
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GovernMent Is draGGInG Its Feet on cLondaLkIn prIMary heaLth care centre
Fianna Fáil’s General Election Candidate for Dublin Mid-West, John Curran has commented on information that has come to light after a recent Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Question in relation to the proposed Primary Health Care Centre for Clondalkin. Rowlagh/North Clondalkin was one of the 35 primary care centres announced under the infrastructure stimulus package in July
2012 by the present Government. However it would seem from the Minister’s reply that no progress whatsoever has been made to provide or plan for a Primary Care Centre in Clondalkin, according to Fianna Fáil’s John Curran. “I cannot believe that after 5 years in Government, Fine Gael and Labour have not delivered on the promise of
a state of the art primary health care centre for Clondalkin. In fact the proposed centre has not yet made it to the planning stages. When Fianna Fáil asked about progress in the summer of 2015 we were told the centre was going for planning in late 2015. When asked again for a progress report in November 2015 we were told planning would commence early 2016. No planning has been
lodged to date. When announcing the roll out of these Primary Care Centres in 2012 across the country, the Government made a big song and dance about them, promising completion dates for most projects by 2016. To get information now in 2016 that no progress has been made whatsoever is shockingly disappointing”, said Curran. “This Government is in office almost five years,
we’ve had two ministers for health and Fine Gael told the whole country they had a costed credible plan for the health service which they have since been forced to abandon entirely. I have been warning for months we were storing up huge problems for the health service this winter. Now, we see again, over 500 patients waiting on trolleys in hospitals around the country. No privacy, no
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dignity. I find it extraordinary that we’re here again to be honest.
A state of the art Primary Care Centre in Clondalkin would go a long way to alleviate the pressures in A&E at Tallaght hospital. Failure of Government to deliver and not even make any progress to plan this promised centre for Clondalkin is shambolic”, concluded John Curran.
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novenas novenas novenas novenas
MIraCLe Prayer Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. e.r.
MIraCLe Prayer Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. L.C. MIraCLe Prayer Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very
special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. g.s.
MIraCLe Prayer Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. g.n. MIraCLe Prayer Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it.
Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. d.s.
as our regular readers will know we have asked for generosity in your supporting very worthy charities over the last few years including nCbI solas Centre in Clondalkin, Tir na nog (Cheeverstown House) and Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice . These charities have all been involved in providing vital services to children with special needs and their families. we would like to thank all readers who have supported our chosen charities to date and while we will still be supporting Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice going forward, we are delighted to support THe IrIsH PILgrIMage TrusT.
We are appealing to you our loyal newspaper readers to show your generosity in helping us to support an
novenas
equally worthy charity, THe IrIsH PILgrIMage TrusT.
THe IrIsH PILgrIMage TrusT is a registered charity in Ireland (Charity Number: 5992), and for over 40 years the Trust has been travelling on pilgrimage/holiday to Lourdes with young people with special needs, from all over Ireland. The Trust has over 1100 people travelling at Easter time and it is divided into small groups of approx 10 young people and 12 volunteer carers who stay in one of the many Hotels in Lourdes. In June we bring a group of 110 people to Hosanna House in Lourdes for what is a unique experience both Carer and Guest. We have two facilities in Kilcuan, Co. Galway and Cois Cuain, Co. Wexford each offering different opportunities. Both facilities provide Friendship weeks during the Summer. application forms are available from our office at 091 796622.
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For more information on the Irish Pilgrimage Trust please contact us at 091 796622 or Email info@irishpilgrimagetrust.c om or visit our web page on http://www.irishpilgrimage for more trust.com information.. If you would like a novena published please send a postal order or cheque
made payable to THe IrIsH PILgrIMage TrusT and send it, along with your novena to: newsgrouP, unIT 3, FLoor 2, sT. doMInIC's sHoPPIng CenTre, sT road, doMInIC's TaLLagHT, dubLIn 24 If you require any further information call us on 087 6535443.
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“appaLLed at added suGar In baby Food proposaL”
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Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has described the proposals of the European Commission to allow baby food to contain huge amounts of sugar foods, as appalling. Deputy Crowe, who is also a member of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on
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European Union Affairs, said that the European is, not Commission surprisingly, once again lined firmly on the side of big business and corporate greed, and against the health and wellbeing of vulnerable children, some as young as 6 months.
Deputy Crowe said: “Ireland and its people already have a major problem and an unhealthy relationship with sugar and junk food. “The news that the European Commission wanted to see cereal-based baby foods, for infants as young as 6 months, contain
property watch with 2 The downs, st. wolstan's abbey, Celbridge Price €575,000
award winning auctioneering Team since 2003, Team Lorraine Mulligan of re/Max results Celbridge & Lucan is very proud to present the stunning and very prestigious 2, The downs, wolstan abbey. This is definitely one of the most impressive 5 bed detached homes for sale in Celbridge at the moment. This superb family home spans to a remarkable C. 2,100 sqft/C. 187 sqm. Of worthy note is that the attic in this home is very substantial and quite a few of the neighbours in Wolstan Abbey have converted these attics for use of mini cinemas with surround sound systems, home gyms, office and study spaces and bedroom accommodation. This is a splendid family home with an enviable address and lots of space.
up to three times more sugar than is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and which would allow sugars to provide up to 30% of the energy intake from baby food, is simply appalling “The Commission is firmly lining up on the side of big business and corporate greed, and against the health and wellbeing of vulnerable children, some as young as 6 months. “It is ignoring the mounting medical evidence and concerns of health practitioners. The WHO also strongly recommends limiting the intake of free
sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. “Ireland is already the fourth highest consumer of sugar in the world, and it is absolutely essential that we give leadership in efforts to oppose plans which allow very high-sugar foods for babies and young children to end up on our supermarket shelves. “Already 1 in 4 Irish children are obese and now we have dangerous proposals like this from the Commission that will only exacerbate the problem. Sugar laden foods lead to a taste and addiction for sugar, and they have the added impact
on developing teeth and tooth decay. “Ireland is already on course to become the most obese country in Europe by 2030. Unless we take actions to prevent sugar saturated products coming on to the market then childhood obesity and all its health associated will inevitably increase. “The European Commission is out of step and needs to be stopped in its tracks on this proposal to allow additional sugar added goods into circulation. “I welcome that these plans were vetoed by the European Parliament.”
NCBI opened its newest charity shop in Clondalkin this week. The shop is located on 20 Main Street, Clondalkin, and is one of the biggest NCBI Retail shops.
people who are blind or vision impaired. And the shop offers great bargains in second hand clothes, books, bric-a-brac, baby items and lots more.” NCBI must raise €4 out of every €10 it spends on services. Its 77 charity shops around the country make a vital contribution to its fundraising efforts. NCBI’s services include emotional support and counselling, low vision solutions like magnifiers, assistive
technology advice and training, rehabilitation training (including independent living skills and using a long cane), a large print, audio and Braille library. The organisation also has an online shop with lots of practical solutions. The new NCBI charity shop is urgently seeking donations of your unwanted clothing and other items. Every bag is worth a great amount to the organisation.
new ncbI charIty shop heLps to Make dark day brIGhter In cLondaLkIn
This home is purely gorgeous and is owned by a wonderful professional couple who take great pride in their property. The interior is immaculate. The living accommodation consist of a kitchen, utility room, guest W.C., hallway, sitting room, living room, dining room. The upstairs accommodation consists of a five double bedrooms with two of the bedrooms being en suite and a family sized bathroom. Wolstan Abbey is a very prestigious development of beautifully built homes. Wolstan Abbey is minutes walking distance of the wonderful village of Celbridge, the breath taking and relaxing walks of the grounds of Castletown Estate as well as great servicing bus routes. Wolstan Abbey is also on the train station side of Celbridge (Hazelhatch train station) and close to the superb `Wolstan Abbey Shopping Centre`.
Celbridge is a magnificent place to live with a great and vibrant sense of community. There are lots of excellent local amenities in the area and Celbridge is minutes from the M50 interchange connecting north and south Dublin.
don`T MIss THIs oPPorTunITy To aCQuIre your dreaM HoMe In a dreaM LoCaTIon wITH an exCeLLenT address.
viewing highly recommended through Team Lorraine Mulligan Tel: 01 6272770 / 6283660
According to Area Manager Janet Kavanagh having such a big and bright shop is great for NCBI. “The work we do wouldn’t be possible without these important fundraising efforts. The new location has great access for
Motoring with newsgroup your Free Local newspaper
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THe new Honda Jazz awarded besT In CLass suPerMInI 2015 by euro nCaP
The all-new Honda Jazz has been awarded with independent safety organisation Euro NCAP’s prestigious Best in Class 2015 award in the supermini category. Earlier in 2015 the Honda Jazz achieved a maximum 5-star safety rating. Jazz took the title from a field of nine superminis in total. Each year, Euro NCAP publishes a list of cars that have performed the best in their respective categories. To achieve a ‘Best in Class’ award from Euro NCAP, cars from each category are assessed against a weighted sum of the scores in each of the four key areas of assesment: Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Pedestrian and Safety assist. This sum is used as the basis for
All grades of new Honda Jazz equipped with Honda’s City-Brake Active system as standard comparison of the vehicles. Secretary General, Dr. Michiel van Ratingen of Euro NCAP commented, “Euro NCAP congratulates Honda for the Jazz, which received the Best in Class of 2015 in the supermini category. The award recognizes the Jazz’s five star performance and Honda’s safety equipment strategy which make it the top performer in this segment.”
All grades of Jazz are fitted with Honda’s City-Brake Active System (CTBA) as standard. The mid and upper grades of the Jazz range features Honda’s ‘Advanced Driver Assist System’ (ADAS), a comprehensive suite of active-safety technologies including: Forward Collision
Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition System, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and High-beam Support System
Additionally the Jazz features Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, designed to redirect collision energy away from the passenger compartment, while minimising the damage caused to other impacted vehicles. “We are thrilled to have the Jazz named as the Best in Class supermini 2015 by Euro NCAP,” said Universal Honda Irelands Sales Director, John Saunders. “Honda has always been committed to providing
customers with high quality products that meet the most stringent safety standards in Europe. This commitment to safety is highlighted by each Honda
model available in Europe – Civic, CR-V, Jazz and the HR-V – achieving the full 5star rating from Euro NCAP. 2015 was a big year for Honda and we have seen
the Jazz and our other new products being embraced and appreciated by the customers, as well as organisations such as Euro NCAP.”
Honda Jazz achieved a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP in November 2015
tIMe For tonInG 24
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...MeLt Fat...MaIntaIn MuscLe
Forget skinny, 2016 is the year for strong and athletic women. If you're looking to lose fat and gain muscle there are certain supplements that can help you reach your goals. The physique enhancing effects of CLA, green tea and L-Carnitine have been studied for decades. These ingredients work in different ways to promote a lean and toned body.
Taking an L-Carnitine and green tea supplement during the day can boost energy and aid fat loss by increasing the number of calories burned. CLA capsules taken in the evening help to block the bodys fat uptake. Numerous studies confirm its role in fat loss while simultaneously boosting muscle growth and strength. When combined these ingredients work synergestically to enhance both fat release and elimination.
the skInny on Fats CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) is an essential fatty acid extracted from the safflower. It inhibits the activity of lipase enzymes which are responsible for ushering fat into fat cells. In the presence of exercise, the fat can be directed towards the muscle where it is used for energy. A study carried out on people taking CLA supplements prior to bed showed that it increased nocturnal fat expenditure by up to 14%. endLess enerGy L-Carnitine is found in most tissues throughout the body, but is highly concentrated in skeletal and cardiac muscle tissues. It plays a critical role in transporting fatty
acids into the mitochondria, or the “furnace of the cells,” where it can be burned to produce energy. This helps prevent fatty-acid buildup in fat stores in addition to maintaining healthy blood triglyceride levels. LCarnitine serves a vital role in energy production and even acts as an appetite suppressant. It not only inhibits fat storing, but it also increases exercise endurance and reduces muscle soreness from intense exercise.
exercIse endurance Green tea extract is loaded with polyphenols like flavonoids and catechins, which function as powerful antioxidants.These substances can reduce
the formation of free radicals in the body, protecting cells and molecules from damage These free radicals are known to play a role in aging and all sorts of diseases. Caffeine has been shown to increase aerobic capacity and strength when taken prior to a workout. Another key
standstill if you start to lose muscle mass, which most people do when dieting.. Muscle mass has metabolism boosting effects.
The reason muscle loss occurs is simple. When you’re eating less, your body will often use
benefit of caffeine is that it lowers the perception of intensity, or effort.
MuscLes For MaIntenance Are you sick of yo-yo dieting? Many people are successful with weight loss but the real struggle comes with maintaining it. The benefits of calorie restriction can come to a
its muscle for the energy it needs. Increasing LCarnitine and CLA levels gives you the energy you need and prevents muscles from being broken down.
how the InGredIents work In synerGy....
CLa is a fatty acid which inhibits the enzyme lipase that is responsible for transporting fat into fat cells (FAT STOPPER) green Tea extract contains caffeine which helps release fat into the blood stream where it can be used for energy (FAT RELEASER) L-Carnitine is an amino acid that plays a critical role in transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria where they can be burned to produce energy (FAT TRANSPORTER)
Fat stopper + Fat reLeaser + Fat transporter = Faster Fat Loss
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aLMost one In sIx overseas enQuIrIes about IrIsh property are now coMInG FroM the unIted states, a natIonaL estate aGents survey has Found your Free Local newspaper
US property buyers are flocking to secure homes and investment properties in Ireland, buoyed by a strong dollar and the lure of a resurgent economy for emigrants, the Real Estate Alliance nationwide survey has found. A survey of REA members shows that enquiries from the US increased from almost zero to 16% in 2015.
And this could signal the first major return of emigrants who feel that the time is right to move back to Ireland.
“While there has always been interest from the US market, this has increased markedly in a year that saw a 22% increase in overseas enquiries about Irish property,” said REA Chairman Michael O’Connor. “Overall, calls from overseas buyers represented 19% of all enquiries received by REA
agents in 2015 and 16% of total sales. “49% of our enquiries came from the UK, 8% from continental Europe, 10% from Australia, but the real surge in new interest came from the US.
“The average house price in the us in november was $374,900 2015 (€341,656), compared to our average House Price survey national value of €188,370, so there is obvious value for american buyers in Ireland.”
And Real Estate Alliance are offering Irish property vendors the chance to cash in on this mini-boom by registering for the Alliance’s New york upcoming Property Exhibition – the first of its kind to be held in the US. REA are bringing thousands of properties to New york, giving a host of US buyers the chance to browse in
1 arbutus place, south circular road, d8. 3 bed end terrace €450,000 ber d1
comfort and talk to the experts on the ground.
The exhibition takes place in the Fitzpatrick Hotel at Grand Central, Manhattan from 5-7pm on March 3.
According to REA agents, 31% of overseas buyers are moving to Ireland to live and work, while 29% are purchasing a home for their retirement and 20% are purchasing as an investment.
32% of all overseas purchases in 2015 were completed for less than €100,000 and a further 20% of sales fell in the €100,000€150,000 bracket, while 31% were properties sold for over €200,000. The majority of buyers (41%) are aged between 4050 and 28% are aged 30-40. “US buyer interest is particularly strong in many undervalued rural counties
7 marlfield court, kiltipper road, d24 3 bed ground floor duplex €190,000
and scenic locations and for the first time in the bigger cities, mostly from emigrants who feel that the time is right to return,” said REA’s Michael O’Connor. “This presents many vendors with the opportunity of achieving better prices due to interest outside of the normal marketplace.” Real Estate Alliance (REA) is Ireland’s leading property group of Chartered Surveyors with over 55 branches nationwide, comprising many of the country’s longestestablished auctioneers and estate agents.
Further details on the REA New york Property Exhibition, and a list of local agents, can be found on www.realestatealliance.ie/ Newyork or send an email to register for the event at info@realestatealliance.ie.
new York – new market
real estate alliance property show – new York 3rd of march 2016
be a part of it as we bring homes and investment properties from all over ireland to the rea property show in new York.
the strength of the dollar and the irish economy has seen an upsurge in us investors and returning emigrants buying homes in ireland. real estate alliance will present irish properties to interested buyers in new York on march 3rd 2016. this is a superb opportunity to market your property.
if you are interested in listing your property with real estate alliance, register your details with rea (www.realestatealliance.ie/newYork) and a local agent will contact you.
243 killinarden est, tallaght, d24 3 bed terraced house €170,00 0ber d2
48 parkwood avenue, tallaght, d24 3 bed semi detached €240,000 ber e2
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by Lynda O'Donoghue Donnelly
email: lynda@newsgroup.ie
TOP FIVE FILMS – Cop Movies
Films about law enforcement are all the rage with huge Hollywood stars queuing up to pull on the freshly pressed blues. So this week we bring you our brand new Top Five Films – Cop Movies to give you that boost of adrenalin and hit of action that only comes with a good old police chase. There are so many films in this genre ranging from deep drama, hilarious comedy to borderline horror so we have gone to the trouble of picking out a sampling of the best the boys and girls in blue have to offer.
For your movie night in grab one of these stellar films and sit back and enjoy the ride…
1. The Heat – A story about a straight-laced agent who must work with an out-ofcontrol cop to make the biggest bust of both their careers. Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy are sublimely paired as the two stars and their brilliant comedy timing will have you laughing out loud over and
over again. These two make an outstanding comedy duo and we can’t wait to see them work together again.
2. se7en – Possibly Brad Pitt’s best role to date as a homicide detective trying to unravel a serial killer. The killer is visiting the Seven Deadly Sins upon his victims – making for particularly grisly murders. When things get personal the detectives struggle to stay objective and must bring the killer to justice immediately. One of the truly great movies of the last 20 years.
3. The departed – There are so many outstanding performances in this movie that it is hard to pinpoint one but Leonardo Di Caprio gives an absolute masterclass as an uncover cop trying to infiltrate the Boston mafia. Matt Damon is also brilliant in a movie that will have you laughing, crying and guessing right up until the very end. Possibly the best cop movie ever made.
4. bad boys – This film falls between the cop and buddy
movie genres. A very funny film with lots of action, misunderstandings and the closest of friendships pushed to the limit. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are perfectly cast as partners and there are lots of one-liners, car chases and explosions. The sequel is also right up there if you have time for another dose of cop buddies hunting down the bad guys.
5. The bone Collector – An often underrated film The Bone Collector is clever, brilliantly acted and intricate. Denzel Washington is a decorated profiler who is left paralyzed after a serious accident, however, he must walk a rookie cop through crime scenes staged by a sadistic killer to keep the city safe. Angelina Jolie gives a great performance as the rookie while Queen Latifah is also on the bill.
Whether you are looking for humour, trying to solve a puzzle or simply love action these movies are our top picks for a good night in – whatever your taste.
Amongst the original works put together during the Tenderfoot programme were four very different stories. Lift by Oileáin Stritch tells the story of a chance meeting between a business man and a boy and looks at the power of the imagination. Fleeing refugees take centre stage in Desperate Measures by Gráinne O'Rourke while Movin' On by Maedhbh Sheehan about
how easy it is to become one of Dublin's young homeless.
The final play, Just Shiftin' by Molly O'Harte, looks at the challenges facing fledgling sexualities in a world filled with porn.
The access programme is currently in its 9th year and has given hundreds of students the opportunity to explore the theatre business. There is no financial cost for
students to ensure the widest possible access and in 2015 a volume of plays was Tenderfoot published in association with South County Dublin Library. In an effort to encourage a continued relationship with the theatre Tenderfoot can attend graduates plays/events at The Civic for much reduced prices. For more information visit www.civictheatre.ie.
TV SHOWS SET TO MAKE A SPLASH IN 2016
As well as some eagerly awaited new series 2016 is also set to see the return of some old favourites to our TV screen. This year could be described as the comeback king with several old shows set to be rebooted including the incredibly popular X-Files, Prison Break and Arrested Development all scheduled. The X-Files starts this week in the USA and is expected to be aired here in February while Netflix is also believed to be in talks to bring The Gilmore Girls and will show comedy reboot Fuller House from February 26. Top Gear will also be back in 2016 with BBC Two hiring Chris Evans to front the car show on which will begin in May. Bradley
Cooper
movie
Limitless has been reworked for TV and is expected to be on screens next month while new Sky Atlantic show Vinyl will air from February 15.
Created by Mick Jagger, Martin Scorsese and Terence Winter (The Wolf of Wall Street, Boardwalk Empire) Vinyl is a show about the sex and drug-addled music business in the 1970’s.
Comic fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of new show DC’s Legends of Tomorrow which starts on Sky1 on March 3 while Supergirl will return for the end of season one on the same channel while Netflix will release Luke Cage and the second season of Jessica Jones later in the year. Meanwhile Grey’s Anatomy season 12 has already
started on RTE2 alongside brand new hospital drama Code Black on RTE One which is also showing season six of The Good Wife this month.
Netflix original and standout hit Orange Is The New Black coming back on June 17 while new original series Stranger Things starring Winona Ryder will premiere in on July 15.
TV3’s Red Rock will continue into 2016 with the return of bad cop Brian McGonigle and more drama, disaster and cringe-worthy oneliners from Garda Sean ‘Westlife’ Holden.
The brilliant homegrown soap features some top class Irish actors and has won rave reviews since it began in 2015 – with much more to come this year.
A scene from The Departed
STUDENTS ACCESS PROGRAMME HUGE HIT AT THE CIVIC
The hugely successful Transition year apprentice theatre programme, Tenderfoot, took place at the Civic Theatre recently.
Students from right schools across the county were
given the opportunity to get involved in the world of theatre - creating and performing an original piece for the stage. These plays, which were staged earlier this week in
The Civic Theatre, tell the stories of the students from their own perspective.
Diverse, creative and enthralling the shows were well attended during their short run.
TV3’s Red Rock will continue into 2016 with the return of bad cop Brian McGonigle
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27
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Free book GIveaway!
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you probably already know that stabilising your blood sugar will go a long way in preventing insulin resistance and diabetes, but did you know that it can completely transform how you look and feel? Balancing blood sugar means an end to to the dreaded 2pm slump, effortless weight loss, stable mood, improved concentration, boundless energy and beautiful skin. Here are some tell-tale signs that you have a blood sugar imbalance:
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• Energy dips throughout the day • Sugar cravings • Weight loss resistance • Excessive hunger • Irritability or mood swings • Regular headaches or migraines • Waking in the middle of the night In the book 'Take control of your blood sugar levels and your weight' the author sheds light on simple dietary and lifestyle changes you can make to help balance your blood sugar. To order your FREE copy go to www.healthandscience.ie
aLL week - aLL cuts €10
Father & son aLL week €18 oap’s aLL week €8
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For our cLIents!
we now oFFer coLourInG
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ST. DOMINIC’S SHOPPING CENTRE (UPSTAIRS), TALLAGHT. TEL: 085 169 2505 OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9.00AM - 6.00PM
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Fitness with newsgroup 30
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Rome wasn’t built in a day So it’s that time of year again!!!! Everyone is in a panic to shed those unwanted pounds from over indulging in food and drink during the holiday period, and to also get that beach body ready for their summer holidays.
Here are 4 simple tips that are important on how you can get the most out of joining a health club while increasing your chances of getting that body you want and most importantly keeping it. 1. Induction 2. Nutrition 3. Preparation 4. Exercise programme InduCTIon: First and foremost the importance of an induction is to show you the safe and correct way to use fitness equipment, it also builds muscle memory which all contribute to a decreased chance of an injury. All Inspiration Leisure Club trainers are on hand to answer any queries you may have.
nuTrITIon: Nutrition is such an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Although training is good for heart health and getting the muscles working, if you really want to get the body you desire you need to have a nutritionally balanced diet of good fats, protein and Carbohydrates as well as a good workout routine for maximum results. All Inspiration Leisure Club trainers have good knowledge
of proper nutrition and can discuss healthy eating with you.
PreParaTIon: The third and very relevant tip is preparation. As the saying goes “fail to prepare then prepare to fail” It is very important to be well prepared not only for a workout but also have a solid and realistic food plan set out for the week ahead. For the most part we are in control of our day to day schedule so I would recommend preparing a shopping list of nutritious foods of protein, good fats and carbohydrates as they are important for maintaining a balanced diet. Get into the habit of preparing meals that are easy and convenient.
exerCIse PrograMMe: The last and very important tip is getting a programme specific to your goals from one of our qualified trainers. your programme should follow the F.I.T.T. CONCEPT which is FREQUENCy (how often you train), INTENSITy (how hard you train), TIME (how long you should train for) and TyPE (depends on your goals), all of these together will guarantee to keep you on the right track to achieve your goals.
Inspiration Leisure Club also have an 18 metre pool, Steam Room and a massage pool available for use for all our members is, this is a great way to relax and unwind after a hard day at work or even your workout.
Don’t wish for it...Work for it
❚ personal training ❚ buddy / Group sessions ❚ ladies classes / circuit training
contact Joan on
087 2219746
email: blissfitness@gmail.com
visit the bliss fitness page on facebook
classes are on 7pm 8pm mondays and wednesday evenings
next Generation fitness Gym
unit 10, st. dominic’s shopping centre, tallaght
The 18 metre pool at the Inspiration Leisure Club
For further information contact: Inspiration Leisure Club, Greenisle Hotel, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Tel: 014123725 Email: leisure@greenislehotel.com Memberships starts from as little as €32pm
truck FuLL oF support at sLIMMInG worLd
Slimming World is showing itself to be a driving force in helping it's members to lose weight with this team of consultants in West Dublin having helped their members lose the equivalant in weight of a large articulated lorry (7315 stone) in the last year. Obesity is becoming a growing issue issue in Ireland and one that our team of consultants are ready to come on board to help with.
As members who have lost weight with our plan, our consultants never dreamed that they would end up helping other people to lose weight . It's a privilege for us to be able to pass on the experience, insight and understanding that helped all us have fantastic results, and we have a different level of understanding the highs and lows of slimming to give our members the support they need to get to target. Like a lot of slimmers, our
consultants had tried to lose weight so many times before by following numerous diets but they were never sustainable because of the restrictions on what they could eat. Many people think they are destined to struggle with weight for the rest of their life, but Slimming World is different. It never feels like you are on a diet. The eating plan encourages you to eat lots of filling foods like pasta, rice, potatoes and lean meat and fish, you are never hungry and no foods are banned so there's no deprivation. you won't believe there is actually a way to lose weight without starving yourself.
"Slimming World isn't just about changing what you eat. It's all about getting the support to choose a healthier lifestyle like finding ways to become more active even if you're not very mobile or don't like exercise.
The beauty of our Food
Optimising healthy eating plan has always been that it helps people to lose weight without going hungry, because we know feeling hungry and deprived makes it hugely difficult to follow a plan and borderline impossible to stick to it for long. And our years of experience has continued to prove that when people feel hungry they are likely to throw in the towel, and instead what they need is help and guidance to reduce their overall energy intake while still feeling beautifully satisfied – what you eat is so much more important than how much of it you consume. Our consultants are on hand 52 weeks of the year to offer their help, understanding and guidence to help you achieve your weight loss dreams and make the changes.
New members are always welcome at our group and details of a group near to you can be found on www.slimmingworld.ie
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Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley Times: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm Consultant: Michael 083 1541233
Chinese gospel Church Esker house Esker Rd, Lucan Every Thursday @ 9.30,11.30,5.30 & 7.30 Every Friday @ 9.30 Consultant: Cherie 0860214188
The spa Hotel Lucan Every Tues 5.30 & 7.30 Consultant: debbie 0858503029
west County Hotel Chapelizod Every Thursday 5.30 & 7.30 Consultant: debbie 0858503029
st andrews school Lucan Rd Lucan Every Monday 5.30 &7.30 Consultant: Irene 0863016593
Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley Every Tuesday 5.30 & 7.30 every wed 5.30 & 7.30 Consultant: Micheal 0831541233 Palmerstown Community Centre (BesideSupervalu ) Kennelsfort Road Wednesdays 9.30 am Consultant: Maria 0851233512
Pobalscoil Iosolde Palmerstown Community School Kennelsfort Road Tuesdays 5.30 pm & 7.30 pm Consultant: Maria 0851233512
**new grouP oPened** Clarion Hotel, Liffey valley every saturday @ 10.00 am Consultant: clare 0876724237
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