Clondalkin News 23rd Jan 23

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There has been a rise in fraud and phishing scams from people posing as major state organisations, with the latest being a fraudulent close contact notification falsely claiming to be from the HSE, a local TD has reported.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin Mid West, Emer Higgins said: “There is a lot of cold, flu and covid circulating this winter season and fraudsters are preying on that by sending a fake text message to individuals telling them they have been a Covid-19 close contact, before directing the person to a link where they can enter their details to buy mandatory antigen

tests. “People need to be aware that this is a scam,” Deputy Higgins warned. “There are currently no restrictions on anyone who is a close contact of a positive Covid-19 case and the HSE will never contact you via text to ask you for your bank details or to make you pay for antigen tests. “Over the last few weeks, I have been made aware of a number of people who have received this fraudulent text and some have unfortunately fallen for it and given away personal information and bank details.

“Once a fraudster has your card details, they may often contact you purporting to

be your bank, alerting you to fraudulent activity and looking for further details or the use of a card reader to gain access to your account.

“These criminals have become so sophisticated that they can make the incoming number appear to be that of your bank, but it is so important that if you are in any way suspicious of a call you should hang up and contact your bank yourself to report any potentially fraudulent behaviour.

“The latest CSO figures show that instances of fraud are increasing, with the number of offences rising by 8% last year. “Gardaí continue

to investigate issues of online and digital fraud and organisations like the HSE, An Post and many delivery companies, are engaged in weeding out and reporting scams, but fraudsters can adapt so quickly that it’s almost impossible to stay on top of each new scam. “The more people that are aware of this particular scam, the less likely they are to fall victim to it.

It’s vital to be vigilant and to inform any vulnerable people in our lives who may be easier targets. No one wants to start out 2023 as the victim of a messaging scam,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

LEO SOUTH DUBLIN SUPPORTING JOBS

The new figures show that the Local Enterprise Office South Dublin financially supported 279 small businesses and these companies in turn employ 1,401 people. Pictured are local LEO client companies attending the Export and Leadership Skills Development Programme.

4 DUBLIN LOCAL AUTHORITIES HELP SCHOOLS GET THEIR WASTE SORTED!

The 4 local authorities in Dublin have come together with the charity VOICE Ireland to partner on a project to help schools manage their waste better.

Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council, South Dublin County Council and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council have created two new video guides based on best practice in school waste management.

The ‘Sorted - How to Reduce, Segregate and Manage School Waste’ videos

aim to assist schools to reduce waste and improve waste segregation. Schools encounter a complex and broad range of waste, from food to packaging. A fit for purpose strategy is required to manage this waste in a sustainable manner.

Some of the major benefits schools can see from an effective and well-planned waste system include; reduced waste bills, less litter around the school, increased protection of the environment, reduced contamination and

compliance with regulations. As schools play a major role in modelling good behaviour for children, a good recycling system and reuse strategy can also shape lifelong sustainable habits.

However, planning an effective waste management system can be difficult within the demands of a busy school environment. To assist schools, two informative video guides have been created. Both videos were filmed at Howth Road Mixed National School, Dublin 3. These videos collect and share best practice from Irish primary and secondary schools.

Video one is designed for staff and outlines the basic principles of a school waste system. For example, it explains how and where to install bin stations. The video outlines how schools can encourage sustainability and circular economy on their campus. The circular economy aims to keep

materials and products inuse for as long as possible. Examples that have been proven to work in Irish schools include uniform swaps, book rental and reusable water

bottles initiatives. Video two is designed to assist a pupil led environmental or Green-Schools committee seeking to improve recycling rates and tackle unnecessary

waste in their school. The videos are freely available to all schools in Gaeilge and English and can be streamed online at www.youtube. com/@schoolwastesorted

Pictured: The project team (left to right); Sinéad Fox (Fingal County Council), Lyndsey O’Connell (VOICE Ireland), Niamh Moran (Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council), Martha Casserly (Dublin City Council) and Fionnghuala Ryan (South Dublin County Council).

TD HIGHLIGHTS RELUCTANCE OF SERIOUSLY ILL TO ATTEND EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has highlighted the widespread reluctance of seriously ill patients to attend Accident and Emergency Departments because of overcrowding and inhumane, unacceptable, and dangerous conditions in many of our hospitals.

Speaking after a Sinn Féin motion on the challenges facing the health service was debated in the Dáil, Teachta Crowe said “Recently, I chaired a meeting of the Health Committee with senior HSE officials. It was a valuable meeting that served to highlight the damage that the failure to invest in hospital capacity, primary and community care, and workforce planning has done to our health service.

“We saw that again in the last Budget that there was not any additional funding for new acute inpatient hospital beds. Is it any wonder our hospitals are running out

of chairs, not to talk of trolleys? “I made a comment that I was reluctant to visit an Emergency Department and that that could have had very serious consequences. I was suffering from sepsis and only for the insistence of my wife Pamela to go to the Emergency Department, I probably wouldn’t have survived the night.

“It is understandable that people have genuine fears and misgivings about attending or sending a loved one to an Emergency Department. Crowded settings, combined with long waits and discomfort, are the last place you want to be if you are immunocompromised, elderly or seriously ill.

“However, I would encourage anyone that perhaps does not have access to a GP to not allow their reluctance to be a burden to go to their A&E if they fear something is wrong. “I have a very

close relationship with Tallaght University Hospital and I would never be afraid walking through those doors of getting anything less than stellar care. “But we must support them in their battle to provide that care. “Nearly every hospital is swamped with patients in need of care and this Government has made the same commitments that they did last years and the year before.

“This was not an unprecedented crisis. The numbers may have been a record high but let’s not pretend that these same scenes do not play out every winter. “The government had all the warnings of a double hit of Covid and flu. They didn’t even buy enough medicine for people suffering from respiratory infections. “Government have proven they have nothing to offer the Irish people in terms of a health service that works. They’ve only ever made it worse.”

RAISING THE GREEN FLAG AT SEAN WALSH PARK

Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Emma Murphy officially opens a revamped playground and raises the Green Flag at Sean Walsh Park, Old Bawn, Tallaght.

On Monday 16th of January 2023, the Mayor of South Dublin County, Councillor Emma Murphy, officially opened the revamped playground at Sean Walsh Park. This playground provides a range of tactile

and universally accessible play facilities that will encourage and support active play for a wide range of ages and abilities.

The features in this playground are designed to encourage imaginative play and constructive play which is so important for young children. There are also features to encourage group play and socialisation. Speaking at the event, Mayor

Councillor Emma Murphy said, “This opening ceremony marks the delivery of a significant project for young people. I am certain that this revamped playground will continue to be popular, and I wish the local children many happy hours of play here in the years to come”. The Mayor went on to pay tribute to the local community and local schools, including St. Dominics National School, for their support of the popular playground and thanked the Council staff for their efforts in managing the project.

Following the opening of the revamped playground, Mayor Councillor Emma Murphy was on hand to raise the Green Flag in the park to celebrate Sean Walsh Park winning a Green Flag Award for the fifth consecutive year! The Green Flag Award Scheme recognises and rewards well managed Parks and sets a benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces around the world.

86% INCREASE IN CHILDREN WAITING FOR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS

Mark Ward TD has said there has been absolute failure in children’s mental health care under Minister Mary Butler. Waiting lists for Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Services (CAMHS) have nearly doubled since the Minister took office, with almost 4000 young people currently waiting on treatment. There are currently 579 children

BARNARDOS SHOPS CALL FOR UNWANTED CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Barnardos children’s charity is calling on the public to donate any unwanted Christmas gifts to their shops. Whether it’s a jumper a size too small, perfume you already have or a book you’ve already read, it can be donated to one of Barnardos shops and will be greatly welcomed by staff. Every cent generated from a donated item will go towards the charity’s work with children and families across Ireland in 2023. Barnardos has seven shops around the country, one of which is located in Clondalkin and is accepting donations. If you wish to donate any unwanted gifts this year, you can find your nearest shop and opening hours on www.barnardos.ie. Bernadette Harrington, Barnardos Shops Manager said ‘As the Cost of Living crisis continues and significantly impacts the vulnerable children and families we support, we need your help more than ever. If you have received a gift that was too small, too big or just not right we will gladly find a home for it in our shop. The funds brought in from each donated item will go directly towards our work with just under 17,000 children and families in communities across the country, ensuring our work can continue to support those who need it. Because childhood lasts a lifetime.’

waiting over a year for an appointment with CAMHS

Teachta Ward said “We have seen a dramatic rise is waiting lists for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) since this government was formed in late June of 2020. “July figures in 2020 showed 2112 children were waiting on an appointment with CAMHS.

“A response I received from the HSE showing the latest figures in November 2022 had 3,937 young people waiting on services. “That is a whopping 86% increase in the number of children waiting on an appointment for mental health treatment since Minister Mary Butler took office.

“What is really concerning is the rise in the number of children waiting over a year for a CAMHS appointment.

“This has gone from 216 children in June 2020 to 579 children waiting over a year for vital mental health treatment. An increase of

168%. “It is vital that children get the care they need when they need it and where they need it. Early intervention is key, so Children have the best chance to reach their developmental milestones. “Children are being denied the opportunity to reach their full potential under this Government.

“In this Governments time, we have seen CAMHS inpatient capacity reduced to 70% with 11 critical inpatient beds remaining closed in Linn Dara. “The Maskey report was published on the failure of care in South Kerry CAMHS where 240 children received risky care from their doctor and proof of significant harm was found for 46 of these children. “This prompted a national audit into CAMHS services by both the HSE and the Mental Health Commission, which are due to be published early this year. “The Mental Health Commission has already escalated concerns to the

HSE before their report is launched, and yet the Minister is in the dark over the nature of these concerns. “I have called for the reappointment of a National Director for Mental Health since I became the Sinn Féin spokesperson so there can be more accountability within

the HSE and an open line of communication with the Minister. “This role could be crucial in tackling the issues that will be highlighted in the audits into CAMHS. “Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services needs urgent action by the Minister and her Government.”

O’CONNOR WELCOMES GRANTS IN TALLAGHT AREA

Tallaght Councillor, Charlie O’Connor, has welcomed the further grants approved by South Dublin County Council at the January meeting under Community Development and Community Events Funding.

The grants approved were Golden Circle at Killinarden Active Retirement Group for their Christmas Event, Killinarden Community Council for their Christmas Event, Kingswood Community & Leisure Centre for their Christmas Event, St Kevin’s Family Resource Centre, Kilnamanagh for their Christmas Event and Tallaght Community Arts for their Village/Community Festival.

Charlie O’Connor congratulated all the Groups concerned and wished them well for the future. He also complimented the Council’s Community Staff for their work in delivering these important grants.

PROMISED RAIL SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS MUST BE DELIVERED ON TIME

Councillor for LucanPalmerstown-North Clondalkin, Derren Ó Brádaigh, has called for greater focus and urgency to address the growing need to meet rail commuter requirements in tandem with population increases and continued housing expansion in West Lucan.

The Councillor has continued to bring this concern to National Transport Authority management and was commenting to a recent response received regarding specific questions poised. Cllr Ó Brádaigh said “The feedback that I am receiving on the ground from residents and existing commuters is one of concern. Lucan commuters are increasingly worried about the delivery of much needed improvements to the local services and indeed the wider railway network into the future.

Entire swathes of estates extending from Griffeen and South-East Lucan, all the

way through to the newer developments in West Lucan such as Shackleton, Gandon, St Helen’s and Adamstown are already in need of a good reliable train service.

“Recently, I asked for clarity regarding Iarnróid Éireann’s plans both in the short and longer term to increase carriage numbers for services stopping at Adamstown, Fonthill and Parkwest stations. In their response, Iarnród Éireann reiterated to me, that they are taking delivery of 41 new Intercity Railcars (ICR’s). These are expected to enter service throughout 2023.

As they are intermediate carriages, they will facilitate the lengthening of existing trains. While at the time of order their primary usage was envisaged to be on commuter lines, the company is reviewing proposed deployment with the NTA in the context of emerging post-Covid travel patterns, and Iarnród

Éireann’s Strategy 2027 which targets service frequency improvements on several routes. Decisions on this will be made over the coming months, based on evaluation of demand across the network.

“In 2024, delivery of 95 DART+ carriages are expected, and I am informed that a further 90 carriages are scheduled for 2026. These carriages will be used across the Greater Dublin Area to allow for increased service frequency and capacity. The first 95 will be used on the Northern Commuter Lines, hopefully freeing up Intercity Railcar and Commuter Carriages for usage elsewhere on the network, and the subsequent 90 carriages will directly benefit the Heuston commuter lines, through Clondalkin and Lucan along the Kildare railway line.

It is essential that these deliveries and timelines are now met, but also kept under

constant review as Lucan continues to grow, with the transition in transport choices away from the motor car being actively promoted.

Regarding the long-delayed opening of the Kishogue train station, Cllr Ó Brádaigh was also commenting “Having sought yet further updates as to the opening of the Kishogue train station, I was informed that Iarnród Éireann intend to start work to bring Kishogue station into service towards the end of this year and being fully operational. There are extensive works needed to bring the station into service, including meeting present day accessibility and system requirements.

Unfortunately, as we know, the station has remained idle for 14 years with the original cost of construction €6.35m and every week people continue to ask me the same question “When is Kishogue opening?” Both my colleagues and I have and will

Cllr Timmons continued ‘’if you’re reading this and wondering how you can help, the most practical way is to do a food collection, we are always in need of food, tinned food, cereals, pasta, rice, coffee, tea and sugar are the most common items we need, you could also encourage your local school or a group you may know to do a food collection, we are always grateful for food’’. Cllr Timmons said ‘’We need volunteer drivers to collect and deliver food, if you can help please let

provide a statutory basis for the establishment of a remediation scheme aimed at protecting the safety and welfare of those living in apartments or duplexes with such defects that occurred during construction between 1991 and 2013.

Deputy Higgins said: “Unfortunately, there are quite a few apartments in the local area that are plagued by construction defects, through no fault of the owner or the renter. “I have been engaging closely with impacted residents in the area as well as the construction defects alliance and I really welcome that we now have a plan for providing redress to those living in defective apartments.

“The proposed measures will ensure people who have already paid or are paying towards remediation costs will be included and buildings posing the highest risk will be prioritised for remediation

first. “A whole building approach will be taken, ensuring common areas and shared spaces are also remediated where required to the relevant standard,” deputy Higgins continued. “There are some significant legacy issues in the area and apartment residents are facing huge financial burdens and massive bills to fix these issues which were never their fault to begin

with. “I know from engaging with local people who have been affected that this has caused a massive amount of stress and anxiety and I’m glad that we now have a plan to provide them with the redress they deserve. “It will also be important that we continue to strengthen our building control system so that similar issues don’t arise in the future,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

ARGOS CLOSURE ‘A HUGE BLOW FOR WORKERS’

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that the announcement that Argos is to pull out of Ireland with the loss of almost 600 jobs is a huge blow for the workers in the Tallaght store and those across the state. Teachta Crowe said “I want to extend my sympathy and solidarity to the Argos workers who learned this morning that the business is to pull out of Ireland with the loss of almost 600 jobs. “This is a huge blow to the workers in the Tallaght store and across the state. “It is essential that the company engage quickly and in good faith with the workers’ trade union, Mandate, during this period. “We have seen too often in the past where a business up sticks and closes down, leaving workers in the lurch. That cannot be allowed to happen again.”

Mark Ward TD has welcomed the department of Health’s decision not to continue sponsoring RTE show Operation Transformation. Last year, Teachta Ward criticised the Department of Health when he received information that RTÉ received over €460,000 in the previous two years in sponsorship for Operation Transformation which has recently been criticised by eating disorder groups.

Teachta Ward said “I welcome that the Dept of Health has not continued to sponsor the RTE programme Operation Transformation this year

“I think the Department of Health have much better ways to spend public money than sponsoring Operation Transformation to the tune of €460,000 in the previous two years. “TV licence payers are basically being taxed on the double for this show.

“I raised this issue last year when I became aware of the situation, and I am happy that taxpayer’s money will not be used to sponsor the show. “There has been recent criticism of the show from eating disorder groups like Bodywhys. Which stated that that community

sanctioned dieting culture does little to achieve longlasting weight loss or health promotion.

“This follows on from strong criticism of the show by eating disorder support groups who accused the show of triggering some people with the condition, causing them distress and mental health problems.

“I welcome that last year a new citizen engagement campaign was designed by the Department of Health in consultation with the HSE and key stakeholders including Bodywhys & the Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity.

“This is a much better process and it’s important that eating disorder advocates are part of the conversation. “The Department of Health has failed to provide services for people with eating disorders and should be targeting the resources into services that people are crying out for.

At Palmerstown Camera Club they hold a weekly meeting in person, every Wednesday from 8 pm to 10 pm in the Palmerstown Parish Hall. People interested in joining the club or even attending one or two meetings FREE of charge to see how their photography could benefit from being a member can do so by contacting secpcc@mail. com.

Recently in Palmerstown Camera Club, they held a judging night for a themed competition “Leading Lines” and the winning image in the Advanced category was Among the Pillars by Elaine Butler. It was also chosen as image of the month.

ORGANISATIONS WORKING WITH VICTIMS OF CRIME TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL FUNDING

More funding for organisations working with victims of crime will ensure that anyone who suffers as a result of crime will receive every assistance available to them, a local TD said.

Deputy Emer Higgins was speaking with regard to a funding announcement, totalling €5.25m for more than 65 organisations to work with victims of crime.

“The work of organisations that help victims of crime is outstanding. They provide support, information and advice on the rights of victims, outreach work, court accompaniment and crime victim helplines,” Deputy Higgins said.

The allocations range from €3,000 to €740,000, and they cover: National and larger organisations such as Women’s Aid, Ruhama, and One in Four; Local organisations working with victims such as Domestic Violence Support, Women’s Refuge and Rape Crisis outlets; General victims support organisations including Victim Support at Court; and Specialist organisations including Migrant Rights Centre and Dignity 4 Patients.

“There is an increased budget of €5.8m allocated to the Department of Justice specifically for victims of crime in 2023, and the remaining funding will be made available later in the year once further service need assessments have been completed,” Deputy Higgins explained. “I am particularly pleased that Beacon of Light in Clondalkin is to receive €21,000 which will prove a very welcome boost to delivery of the services available to victims of crime.” Last October, the Department of Justice

invited applications for funding from registered charities, voluntary community groups, and other organisations which provide services – or plan to provide services – supporting victims in the criminal justice system.

Funding is given to organisations that meet the objectives and that can show they have the required management and compliance policies and procedures in place. The Department of Justice currently funds a number of NGOs that provide supports for victims of crime on a multi-annual basis. These agreements aim to assist the organisations with their longterm planning and cash flow, and to ensure more effective and efficient use of funding. These organisations will see an increase in funding of 7.9pc in 2023

“The services provided by these organisations are extremely important, but

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increased costs and inflation have caused some difficulties – that is why this funding comes at a crucial time.

Where organisations sought an increase on last year’s funding, they have been granted a 5pc cost-of-living increase, at a minimum. “Developing a victimcentred criminal justice system which prioritises the needs and experience of the victim underpins our commitment to building stronger, safer communities and this funding is a significant element of that,” Deputy Higgins concluded.

Justice Minister Simon Harris said, “I know that being the

victim of a crime can be very traumatic and difficult, and we’re determined to ensure that the necessary range of supports and services to help is available. “Building stronger, safer communities and prioritising the needs and experience of the victim is central to our ongoing work under ‘Supporting a Victim’s Journey’ and the ‘Zero Tolerance’ strategy. “The work of so many organisations across the country that help victims of crime is outstanding. They provide support, information and advice on the rights of victims, outreach work, court accompaniment and crime victim helplines.”

BURSARY OFFERS €10,000 BOOST TO RENEWABLE ENERGY STUDENTS

Applications have opened for the Niamh Burke Memorial Bursary, which will award a total of €10,000 to students pursuing studies linked to climate action and renewable energy in Ireland. Candidates can apply for the bursary until Thursday 2 March 2023 at 5pm. The bursary was established by leading law firm Arthur Cox, in memory of their former colleague and Arthur Cox partner, Niamh Burke, who played a significant role in the development of the Irish wind energy sector and advised on some of Ireland’s largest, energy, infrastructure and construction projects.

All relevant disciplines are open for consideration including law, economics, engineering, policy, science, planning and others. It is open to students planning to study in these or related fields in Ireland, at postgraduate level in 2023. If more than one person is

selected, the bursary monies will be split between the successful applicants.

Aoife Stewart, from Drogheda in Louth, was one of last year’s winners “A year on and I still feel honoured to have been given this tremendous opportunity. The bursary provided me with vital financial support to pursue a masters in Environmental and Natural Resources law, which I am currently undertaking at University College Cork. “I have just completed the first semester of the programme and I am delighted with my decision to pursue a masters in this field. I am excited to continue my studies this year and to see where this degree leads me in the future.”

Alex McLean, Head of the Energy and Natural Resource Group at Arthur Cox said “We are very pleased to continue providing this bursary in memory of our colleague Niamh Burke. Ireland has

the potential to be at the forefront of the energy transition and we want to support the next generation who are working towards a carbon-neutral future.”

The fund is administered by Wind Energy Ireland.

Dave Linehan, Head of Research, Wind Energy Ireland said: “Anything that supports and encourages academic excellence in this area is very welcome. Today’s renewable energy students will be the people making sure we reduce our CO2 emissions and work to end our dependence on foreign fossil fuels. We are supporting future leaders in Ireland’s fight against climate change.”

The bursary was launched in 2020 and has already helped six people with their studies. It is funded by Arthur Cox and Niamh’s family, to offer opportunities to a new generation of

Cork, Dublin

City

www.surveymonkey.com/r/ Bur2023

CLONDALKIN ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Parade is

once again in the Village

Paddy’s Day and we need people and groups to take part, we are particularly

interested in talking to anyone that can add colour or something new to the parade, So far Clondalkin Fairtrade, Clonburris Climate Champions, Dublin Lions Basketball Club, the Laurels cycle crew, Elite Karate Academy and St Joseph’s Clondalkin Pipe Band have all signed up which is fantastic.

We also have vintage cars, bikes and scooters ready to take part and K & G Funfair. We would like to see more colour this year in the parade. Every year we look for floats and again we call out for these’’.

Cllr Timmons said ‘’While South Dublin County Council gives us a grant towards the costs, I would also like to call out to businesses to help sponsor the parade so far Mc Elroy’s and the management of Dolcan House have both committed to helping fund the parade, we are open to offers, please contact if you can help us’’.

Cllr Timmons continued ‘’We have had

wonderful Grand Marshals over the years following on from Tommy Keogh last year and Mary Dardis, Colm Gavin, Mary Kennedy, Philip and Gemma Carr and others, we are now taking nominations for Grand Marshal 2023. The people of Clondalkin decide and the person most nominated gets to go to parade in a Masseys supplied vintage car and view the parade from the staging area, we look forward to welcoming the person decided by the public’’.

Cllr Timmons concluded ‘’For two years we couldn’t hold the parade due to Covid, but this year we can, it’s a great community event and day and a chance to showcase all that’s good about Clondalkin, but we rely on the community to make it a success by taking part or volunteering on the day’’.

Follow on Facebook www.facebook. com/ClondalkinStPatricksDayParade or check out the website www. clondalkinstpatricksfestival.ie/

FIVE DUBLIN FIRMS WIN AT 10TH ANNUAL HEALTHTECH INNOVATION AWARDS

The 10th HealthTech Innovation Awards in HealthTech Ireland’s 40th year took place recently in the Mansion House in Dublin, crowning nine winners. The following Dublin firms all won awards.

“This is an event that shines a light on the wonderful organisations, both public and private, and the extraordinary people leading the way in healthcare today,” said Susan Treacy, CEO, HealthTech Ireland. “It also allowed us to refocus on the need to have the patient front and centre in healthcare, which is why it also featured a presentation from Gary Boyle a promoter with Living With Parkinson’s Disease.”

The evening celebrated some of the finest HealthTech professionals and organisations in Ireland from start-ups to SMEs to global companies as well as fantastic collaborators in the HSE and Hospitals. Importantly the evening highlighted how industry, through HealthTech Ireland and the HSE and hospitals

are collaborating and partnering in many areas, to tackle complex challenges such as wait lists and digital health transformation and have positive impact for patients.

“This year’s winning initiatives & individuals exemplified the Best of the Best and what it is to bring positive impact to patients and the healthcare system, through not only state-of-the-art medical health technologies but also the transformation and culture changes required to do it,” said Treacy.

The judges were CEOs and Senior Directors from the public and private sector as well as Enterprise Ireland. A highlight for the judges and the evening was the award to an ‘Outstanding Healthcare Professional’. These were the unsung heroes who go above and beyond every day. The four finalists were exceptional individuals from TUH, TCP Homecare, Temple St. and Naas General and worked in IT, Outpatients, Innovation and Nursing.

Cllr Timmons Chair of the committee of the Clondalkin St Patrick’s Day Parade commented ‘’The Clondalkin Patrick’s Day

back

this

MOTORING LIFE WITH New Peugeot 308 Hybrid with Upmarket Driving Thrills

By Breda Corrigan

Just one look at the all-new Peugeot 308 is all it takes to see that the French vehicle manufacturer has worked hard to give their new family hatchback a distinctive style that makes some of its competitors look rather dull by comparison. Peugeot is part of the mighty Stellantis Group, and is joined by Opel, Citroën, DS Automobiles, FIAT, Alfa Romeo and Jeep under the corporate umbrella in Europe. Recently crowned as Europe’s biggest-selling car group, Stellantis is now the World’s fourth-largest automaker.

Dynamic Design Language.

The new Peugeot 308 sits on the Stellantis EMP2 platform that also underpins the new Opel Astra, and the two cars share many other parts under the skin too. Due to the ever-growing SUV market across Europe, family hatchbacks like the 308, Astra, Golf and Focus don’t sell in the numbers they used to, but they are still important to their makers all the same. An oversized new Peugeot logo that features the brand name and lion mark within a shield sits proudly in the new 308’s low-slung front grille, while a smaller brand logo at the rear of the car serves as a lever for opening the tailgate door.

The dynamic front grille extends across the front of the car and flows neatly into the slim LED headlights, under which sit Peugeot’s trademark fang-like LED

daytime running lights on the front corners. In a similar fashion, the ‘three-claw’ light theme continues at the back of the car, with animation on some higher spec models. Well-appointed creases and slashes adorn the bodywork of the new 308 to provide the car with strength of character and dynamism. The distinguished and streamlined profile of the car reveals its athletic look, while the lowered roof line at the rear of the car adds a dash of sportiness to the overall design.

Upmarket Cabin.

The upmarket look and feel continues inside the new 308, and it is easily one of the most interesting cabins you will find in any new hatchback. A pair of touchscreens dominate the high quality dashboard, and a bank of metallic air vents on top of the dash sit in a silver panel that stretches from one side to the other, making the 308’s interior appear wider and roomier. Softtouch materials and solid metaleffect trim strategically-placed throughout the cabin provide a luxurious look and premium feel.

The all-new touchscreen setup in the new 308 is very user-friendly, and the 10-inch Peugeot i-Cockpit display is angled towards the driver so that it is easy to read in bright sunlight despite its glossy finish. Also included is the Peugeot i-Connect infotainment system with

voice control (activated by using “OK PEUGEOT”) and customisable i-Toggle fast keys, and every 308 comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The new 308 Hybrid benefits from a wheelbase that is 55mm longer than its predecessor, and this translates into greater legroom for all occupants. Boot space in the new 308 Hybrid hatchback stands at 361-litres behind the rear seats, and increases to 1,271-litres when the rear seats are folded when required.

For drivers looking for even more practicality, there is an estate (SW) version of the new 308 that boasts 548-litres of space behind the rear seats.

Plug-In Hybrid Tech.

The new Peugeot 308 Hybrid combines a refined and powerful 1.6-litre petrol engine with plugin hybrid technology to deliver 180bhp or 225bhp, depending on the model chosen, both of which have an all-electric driving range of up to 60kms. Both plugin hybrids use a 110bhp electric motor and 12.4kWh battery, as well as an eight-speed automatic gearbox (e-EAT8), but total power output jumps from 180bhp in the Hybrid 180 model to 225bhp in the Hybrid 225, thanks to a punchier version of the petrol engine under the bonnet. As standard, the new 308 Hybrid comes with a 3.6kW on-board charger, meaning a full

recharge (0-100%) will take around three-and-a-half hours from a wallbox charger. Buyers can, however, upgrade to a 7.4kW unit that can complete the same task in one hour and forty-five minutes. When starting every journey with a fully-charged battery, Peugeot claims the car can consume as little as 1.1-litres of petrol for every 100kms driven on a WLTP combined driving cycle. The new Peugeot 308 Hybrid 180 is available in Active, Allure and sporty GT trim levels, with the Hybrid 225 available exclusively in GT trim.

Test Car.

My test car was a new 308 GT Hybrid 180, which attracted many admiring glances in its stunning Vertigo Blue metallic paintwork and 18” ‘Kamakura’ diamondcut two-tone alloy wheels. Key standard GT equipment includes a Peugeot 3D i-Cockpit panel, Driver Sport Pack, heated steering wheel, full-grain leather steering wheel with green stitching and GT badging, Alcantara/leather-effect/ cloth Tri-Material upholstery, black roof lining, Lion emblem badging on front wings, dark chrome chequered radiator grille, lower body sills to the front and side, Full Matrix LED headlights, LED ‘claw-effect’ rear lights with sequential ‘welcome sequence’ upon unlocking the car, and LED glovebox lighting. All of this is in addition to the comprehensive list of standard comfort, convenience,

On the road, the new 308 Hybrid 180 feels sprightly, sporty and thoroughly engaging, and it feels well controlled and poised on a variety of road surfaces. The small steering wheel contributes to the sense of fun, and a Sport drive mode adds more weight to the steering and allows the car to hold on to gears for longer when accelerating. The standard Drive Assist Pack in my test car (also standard in Allure trim) provided terrific peace-of-mind when on the go, and it consists of Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, and Long Range Active Blind Spot Detection, along with Active Safety Brake with night function for the detection of cyclists and pedestrians.

Pricing & Warranty.

Peugeot’s all-new 308 Hybrid feels more like a premium product than ever, and is in keeping with the brand’s push upmarket. Pricing for the 308 Hybrid starts at €40,785 in Allure trim, with my test car specification priced from €46,190 (all prices quoted exclude dealer delivery-related charges). All Peugeot passenger cars are covered by a comprehensive 5-year/100,000km warranty, with the added benefit of an 8-year traction battery warranty on electric and hybrid models.

infotainment and safety systems found in the Active and Allure models.

NOVENAS FOR LAURA LYNN

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received. P.W

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received. H.D

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received. P.M

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

P.M

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received. P.M

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

P.M

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received. S.B

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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

F.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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received. J.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. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

L.R

If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque (Minimum of €10 per prayer) made out to Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to:

If you require any further information please call 01 45 19 000 or email: info@newsgroup.ie.

NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24.