Clondalkin News 25th July by Newsgroup

25th July 2022

RENT ASSISTANCE SUBSIDIES COSTING COUNCIL €100 MILLION PER YEAR South Dublin Councillor Derren Ó Brádaigh has expressed alarm at the shocking rise in spending levels for rent subsidies in the South Dublin County Council area. Ó Brádaigh was commenting following a response received from council officials recently to a question regarding rent subsidies in recent years. The Councillor for Lucan-PalmerstownNorth Clondalkin said “The failure of Government to deliver social and affordable

homes amid an escalating housing crisis will cost South Dublin County Council and the taxpayer more than €100m to cover HAP, RAS and private leasing in 2022 alone. The absence of sufficient accommodation for ordinary families and workers has led to a very worrying over reliance on the private rental sector. The local representative continued “Rental assistance total spend by South Dublin County Council is increasing

dramatically every year - €72m in 2019, €81m in 2020, €95m in 2021 with the total subsidies set to exceed €102m for this current year. The biggest area of expenditure within these figures is on the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).

Over dependence on HAP is not only bad for the tenant, but it is also poor value for money for the exchequer and has in my view diluted the urgency we need directed toward the building of large scale

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social and affordable housing developments.

The Councillor for Lucan-PalmerstownNorth Clondalkin continued “Since the introduction of HAP in 2014, Government have spent almost €2.5 Billion across the state on this scheme, with €1 Billion of this spent in the last two years alone! This figure is continuing to rise every year and illustrates the abject failure of those in charge of the purse strings to prioritise investment and provide for those in need of much awaited homes.

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The present situation is simply unsustainable and is ultimately dead money. We need to see significant increases in real social housing targets and delivery in the immediate future” concluded Ó Brádaigh.

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2022 GUM LITTER TASKFORCE CAMPAIGN Mayor Emma Murphy has officially launched the Gum Litter Taskforce’s gum litter education campaign for south Dublin, urging all people to ‘Bin it’. Speaking at the launch, the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr. Emma Murphy said “ While we have seen very positive results to date, we want to continue encouraging a positive behaviour change amongst the small minority who are still disposing of gum incorrectly.” The ‘Bin It!’ education programme will travel across the country and deliver 60 performances a year to

primary schools nationwide, with the ambition to visit 180 schools by 2025. The ‘Bin It!’ school roadshow encourages students to responsibly dispose of litter, and particularly gum litter, through actor-led workshops. The latest cycle of the campaign will see the programme shift its focus from secondary school students to students in fifth and sixth class, and a return to in-person workshops, and kicks off in September. The programme will also see the GLT continue to work with South Dublin County Council to promote greater gum litter awareness and

Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 HK49. Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and Rathcoole & Saggart News Distributed by: Local Post Co. Contact Details: Website www.newsgroup.ie

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education programmes in their areas, through the GLT annual roadshow. To date the campaign has engaged with over 30 local authorities across the country, hosting awareness initiatives and localised launch events and providing materials to promote community-led action on gum litter. The roadshow will start in Dublin, before travelling nationwide between the months of June, July and August to promote responsible gum disposal with the help of local authorities.

the people of Ireland, with each year seeing further positive changes in people’s attitudes and behaviour towards gum litter. “The success of the Gum Litter Taskforce

demonstrates the forwardthinking, joined up approach of industry, local communities and local government that is necessary to further drive the objective of

changing the public’s gum disposal behaviour. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to achieve further positive changes in litter reduction in our cities, towns and villages.”

Speaking ahead of the launch Minister Ossian Smyth, said “I’m delighted to announce the continued partnership of the Government and the Gum Litter Taskforce on the National Gum Litter Awareness Campaign, which has been the driving force in reducing gum litter in Ireland since it was first launched in 2007. What’s particularly pleasing to see is that the campaign continues to resonate with

Cllr. Emma Murphy Mayor of South Dublin with children from Rainbows After-school at the launch of the Gum Litter Campaign in Griffeen Valley Park, Lucan.

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FUNDING TO GROW AND ENHANCE ONLINE CAPABILITY Retail businesses should apply for a new round of funding to expand their online offering and presence to customers at home and abroad, a TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins was speaking after Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English announced more than 200 retailers who have been approved for funding under the Online Retail Scheme (ORS) administered by Enterprise Ireland. This latest development will see 216 retailers across all counties approved for funding of €9.29 million. The Scheme for retailers who already have an online presence and who have a physical store and is targeted at enhancing their online capability. Speaking recently, Deputy Higgins said: “Many local businesses have successfully made the digital transition in recent years and developed their online capability to sell their goods and services online. “Consumer habits have also changed in recent years and it was great for

them to know that when they went online, they had local options instead of just the large international retailers, particularly when the pandemic occurred. “Recipients from this latest call are based across all counties in Ireland and are from a number of sectors, including hardware, pharmacy, clothing and furniture. “61 Dublin businesses have been successful in this round of the Online Retail Scheme. They will receive grants ranging from €10,000 to a maximum of €64,000. Recipients from this latest call are based across all counties in Ireland and are from a number of sectors, including hardware, pharmacy, clothing and furniture. “Among the recent recipients is Newland’s Garden Centre in my own constituency of Dublin Mid West and I hope we will see more businesses in the local community applying for the funding going forward. “Nationally, since 2018 more than 700 projects from retailers based in

Ireland have been approved for €28.3m in funding through the Government’s Online Retail Scheme. “We have seen how businesses benefited from this scheme throughout the pandemic, this funding will continue that revitalisation,” Deputy Higgins said.

that are currently going to businesses based outside the country. “It is also pleasing to see that there

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English added, “Retailers are at the heart of our communities across the country so the Government is delighted to support an additional 216 local businesses as they take this next step to increasing their sales capability by further developing their online offering. “Such diversification is an important part of futureproofing a business as it allows retailers to explore new opportunities and reach new customers, both domestically and internationally.

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is currently recruiting Puppy Raising Volunteers in Dublin. They will host an information webinar on the 28th of July from 7pm - 8pm. Puppy Raisers foster puppies from age 8 weeks until approximately 12-14 months. At eight weeks old their puppies begin their journey to becoming a Guide Dog for a person who is vision impaired or an Assistance Dog for a family of a child with autism. This journey starts in the homes of the Puppy Raising Volunteers. The puppy will live with your family in your home. Under the direction of their Puppy Raising Supervisors, puppies learn basic rules and obedience. At approximately 14 months they move into the Training Centre with highly skilled

Through the Online Retail Scheme, we are enabling established retailers with a physical store the chance to compete for online sales

has been a good spread of successful companies from around the country under this round of the Scheme

with 155 from the regions and 61 businesses based in Dublin”, Minister English concluded.

IRISH GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND NEED PUPPY RAISERS trainers and the hard work towards graduating as a Guide or Assistance Dog begins. This is a great opportunity to make a real difference to someone’s life and to learn new dog training skills. Criteria to become a Puppy Raiser; No more than two other dogs in the home. They must be sociable, well behaved and neutered/spayed. The puppy must not be left alone for prolonged periods

of time (max 4 hours but this is age dependent). You must have access to a secured outdoor area. Children in the home must be over five years of age. You must be 18 years or older, but the whole family can get involved. And must have internet access and be able to use Zoom platform. To apply or to find out more please visit www.guidedogs. ie or email Erin at erin@ guidedogs.ie

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NEW MAYOR EMMA MURPHY RECYCLE IT - PILOT APARTMENT COLLECTIONS FOR ELECTED ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT Recycle IT, an awardwinning social enterprise is working with WEEE Ireland to pilot the collection of old, damage or unused electrical and electronic equipment from apartment complexes in Dublin.

The purpose of the project is to define and support electrical recycling opportunities for new and existing apartment locations in Dublin over an initial 1-year period starting in July 2022. Statistics show the number of occupied apartments rose from 183,282 to 204,145 between 2011-2016 period and the number of households living in apartments continues to grow at a faster rate than any other accommodation type, added to this, more apartments than houses were granted planning permission in 2020 for the first time making this pilot project very timely. Pictured at the AGM of the Council was newly elected Mayor of the County Cllr Emma Murphy with Councillors Charlie O’ Connor, Teresa Costello, Shane Moynihan and Yvonne Collins.

Recycle IT is hoping to offer at least one free electrical recycling collection event per year for all residents/

households wishing to recycle within their apartment complex.

Una Lavelle General Manager said, “Recycle IT are embarking on this new project to help increase the rates of recycling for electrical equipment in Ireland and allow people in apartments recycle with ease and safely from a central location on an agreed date”. The aim is to an increase in the quantity of electrical and electronic equipment recycled by the individual, shared and family households living in apartment complexes. If successful, the project will help improve the reuse and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and help Ireland reach the European Union target of 65% minimum collection for recycling of WEEE (EU WEEE Directive). Speaking with interested persons or groups with the authority to arrange a recycling collection for old

electrical equipment from their apartment complexes is a challenge but also the key to recycling more. To get started Recycle IT would like to make contact with apartment property managers, facility managers, apartment maintenance and/or cleaning teams or residents committee members. This

pilot WEEE recycling project is open to apartment complexes located in South Dublin, Dublin City and Dun Laoghaire / Rathdown so please do contact us by email, info@recycleit. ie, or call 01 4578321 if interested. Please visit www.recycleit. ie to learn more about our social enterprise.

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BELONG TO WELCOMES DRAFT SPHE PROGRAMME On July 18th, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) published the Draft Junior Cycle Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) Curriculum. Belong To, a national organisation for LGBTQ+ youth, welcomes the publication of this draft curriculum as a positive step towards the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ students and identities in second-level schools in Ireland. The draft curriculum takes a four-strand approach, with inclusivity and respect for a broad range of identities, including gender identity and sexual orientation, at its core. Upon initial review,

Belong To praises the draft curriculum’s naming of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression as “core parts of human identity” under students’ learning outcomes.

Understanding gender stereotypes and identitybased discrimination are further learning outcomes for students included in the draft curriculum that have been welcomed by Belong To. The organisation looks forward to engaging in the consultation process, and highlighting the need to name comprehensive training and support for teachers in the final

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curriculum. Speaking in response to the publication of the draft SPHE Junior Cycle Curriculum, Moninne Griffith (she/her), CEO of Belong To says: “We welcome the publication of the draft Junior Cycle SPHE curriculum by the NCCA and look forward to engaging in the consultation process. Through our research and our frontline services, LGBTQ+ young people have told us about the lack of LGBTQ+-inclusive education generally, and relationship and sexuality education (RSE) in particular, in some second-level schools. This consultation process is a unique opportunity for LGBTQ+ youth, their parents, educators, youth workers, and broader communities to have their voice heard, and give direct input into the development of the SPHE and RSE curriculum.

Teachers are in touch with us regularly seeking support, training and resources to teach on these topics, which is why we have developed an e-learning module for educators working with LGBTQ+ youth. We hope that the final curriculum contains comprehensive training and support for educators, to ensure that it is taught in full to students across the country. Through this process, we are hopeful that all young people will

Katie O’Connor is crowned Miss Dublin. Recently, Katie who has lived in Tallaght all her life secured the title of Miss Dublin 2022 and also winner of the Leinster people’s choice award. This means Katie will now go on to represent Dublin at the Miss Ireland event on August 20th in Mayo. Katie has been a successful Ballroom and Latin dancer with local dance school Xquisite Dance. Katie has represented her country in Ballroom and Latin many times and then 7 years ago was diagnosed with scoliosis. Katie had to undergo spinal fusion 4 years ago and through her dedication to dance she was lucky to return to dancing only 10 weeks after her surgery. Katie finally got to represent her country yet again only last November 2021 in the world championship in Armenia. Katie would not have achieved this without the support of her family, dance family and dance coaches Nicole Kelly and John Nolan who always had her back (pardon the pun). Katie is trying to raise much needed funds and awareness for scoliosis.

have access to relationship and sexuality education that meets their needs.” The NCCA welcomes feedback on the draft

curriculum from educators, young people, parents, and organisations working with young people. Submissions will be accepted by the

NCCA until mid-October this year, visit ncca.ie/ en/updates-and-events/ consultations/ for more details.

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DUBLIN CLIMATE ACTION WEEK

The second Dublin Climate Action Week (#DCAW22) will take place from Monday 12 to Saturday 17 September 2022.The week, which is being organised and delivered by the partnership

of South Dublin County Council, Dún LaoghaireRathdown County Council, Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council, Codema – Dublin’s Energy Agency and the Dublin Climate Action

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Regional Office (CARO), will showcase the ongoing efforts, ambitions and the collaborative approach of the four Dublin local authorities, in addressing climate action.

A number of regional and local events covering a range of climate topics will be delivered as part of Dublin Climate Action Week 2022 and the full programme of events will be available in August on the DCAW22 website, at www. dublinclimateactionweek. ie. Climate action is now at the forefront of policy making in Ireland. The enactment of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021, the publication of the national Climate Action Plan 2021 and each Council’s Climate Change Action Plan 2019-2024, demonstrate our ongoing commitment to move forward on climate action. The agreed shared objectives of Dublin Climate Action Week are

to: Demonstrate progress on the implementation of the four Dublin local authority Climate Change Action Plans, and a regional approach to climate action; Engage with a full range of partners to showcase efforts and innovation across sectors; Make climate action a ‘reality’ allowing citizens to see what climate action looks like; Promote this initiative so as to fully engage with EU and international cities and our climate peers; and Create a legacy so that this initiative can carry forward to subsequent years in a variety of ways.

would also urge the citizens of Dublin to use Dublin Climate Action Week as an opportunity to find out more about climate change and to use the week to examine how they can live more sustainably. The full programme of events will be published in August on the dedicated website, www. dublinclimateactionweek. ie.”

The Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the Mayors of South Dublin County Council and Fingal County Council, and the Lord Mayor of Dublin City Council stated that, “Dublin Climate Action Week provides the citizens of the city and county with an opportunity to find out first-hand what their local authorities are doing to tackle climate change. We

Local authorities in Dublin and across Ireland play a pivotal role in planning for, and responding to, climate emergency situations. Given their close relationship with the community, local authorities can react effectively to local climate events, with ongoing support from other government agencies and the local communities. This

Keep up to date on Dublin Climate Action Week 2022 at www. dublinclimateactionweek.ie

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has been demonstrated in their response to extreme weather events in Ireland over recent years, as well as the ongoing response to COVID-19 restrictions. They have essential local knowledge of the natural and manmade environment and have a critical role to play in managing climate risks and vulnerabilities and identifying adaptation actions within their administrative areas. Having regard to climate mitigation, local authorities are continuing to upgrade public buildings and social housing and are enhancing active travel measures across Ireland.

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“PORTAL” EXHIBITION BY AWARD WINNING BOG WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER TINA CLAFFEY FINDS FIRST PERMANENT HOME IN LULLYMORE HERITAGE & DISCOVERY PARK

Every visitor to Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park can now enjoy the “Portal” exhibition as part of the range of activities on offer.

The exhibition is housed in the Park’s Purple Heather Café and is an immersive visual exploration through the realms of unique flora and fauna within Ireland’s bogs, wetlands and eskers, revealing the hidden gems that have lived and evolved for millennia. Ray Stapleton, Manager of Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park said: “We are so proud to have the first permanent exhibition of Tina’s work and feel the Park is a great home for it. For many years, the Heritage Park have been actively involved in rewilding our peatland area and telling the story of its stunning wildlife and how

the peatlands have shaped local culture and history to people from all around the world.

This resonates with visitors and is more important than ever given our need to increase biodiversity and mitigate climate change. For us, this starts with people appreciating what we have and wanting to protect it. Tina’s work reflects the natural treasure that these peatlands are better than anyone we’ve seen before and the exhibition will greatly assist us in raising awareness and giving more to customers of the Park.” Tina Claffey, Photographer said “Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park is a wonderful place to celebrate our beautiful peatlands and I am so grateful and honoured to have my exhibition here in

this special venue.” The title ‘Portal’ is a reference to ‘portach’ (bog) and more importantly, for its reference as an entrance/ gateway to another world. In recent times, we have all been forced to slow down and truly appreciate the world around us. This is very true for the photography I specialize in-macro photography. In order to truly see and capture these wonders, I slow down to the hum of life within the bogs & wetlands, and only then does Mother Nature reveal her gems to me. Lichens become enchanted forests, caddisflies weave magical houses to house their soft aquatic bodies, mystical lichen goblets appear that are fit for otherworldly kings and queens.

Tentacles of carnivorous sundews poise like a cobra ready to strike, while

wondrous sphagnum mosses lay in frozen waters in suspended animation, their feathery limbs outstretched surrounded by magical bubbles. All Images are from Tina Claffey. Tina has just

released the book “Portal – Otherworldly wonders of Irish Bogs, Wetlands and Eskers” and it’s available in Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park and all major bookshops or to order online

at www.currachbooks.com You can view more of Tina’s images on www.tinaclaffey. com and find out all about Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park on www. lullymoreheritagepark.com

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NEW CROÍ CÓNAITHE FUND WILL HELP REFURBISH VACANT PROPERTIES A new Government fund called Croí Cónaithe will support bringing vacant and underused buildings in Dublin towns and villages back into residential use, a Senator has said. Senator Seery Kearney

said, “A new €50 million Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund was announced by the government recently. This funding will be crucial to bringing vacant and underused buildings in

Dublin towns and villages back into residential use. “Fine Gael is working to create stronger safer communities and in Government we are prioritising programmes like Croí Cónaithe to achieve

SDCC FIXYOURSTREET.IE WEBSITE WITH 80K ENQUIRIES CLOSES As of last week www.fixyourstreet.ie has received nearly 80,000 requests from residents in relation to graffiti, lighting, drainage, litter, etc.. However, SDCC is shutting the website down citing: “The technical infrastructure on which the service was built is now past its end of life and there have been significant technical, operational, and security challenges experienced in delivering the service on the current platform as a result of this.” The website was established in 2011 along with an Irish version: deisighdoshraid. ie. As of 1st August, both sites will be shut down. A lot of money has gone

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into this website. It’s a pity to see the site go offline. The website promised to “responded to issues raised within 2 working days “. “Whilst I appreciate all the hard work SDCC has put into the website, existing enquiries must not now fall by the wayside. SDCC must deal with the issues in a timely manner. I have also asked how many enquiries (out of the 80k) have been addressed by SDCC as well how much money has been spent on the website to date. If residents have any outstanding issues, myself and my council colleagues are happy to help assist residents” stated Cllr Trevor Gilligan PC.

this. Many areas of towns and villages in Dublin are experiencing vacancy and dereliction and we want to breathe new life into these communities and ensure they are better places in which to live, to work and to raise families.

“The Scheme is set to benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence and become part of the community in the area. We are working to create vibrant town centres in Dublin once more. “The Fund will be delivered through Dublin City Council & South Dublin County Council who will provide a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to applications in areas where the level of vacancy or dereliction is high “A grant of up to €30,000 will be available for the refurbishment

of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as a home before now. “Where a property is derelict, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000. This can also be combined with the SEAI Better Energy Home Scheme that covers works of up to €26,750. “It is intended that the Crói Cónaithe Fund will apply in all towns with a population of over 400 people, and also to some smaller villages, which may not be defined towns or villages for the purposes of the CSO Census mapping but with sufficient provision of services and amenities.” Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Peter Burke, added, “Today’s new fund is a part of a suite

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of measures undertaken by the government to tackle vacancy. It will be complemented by the upcoming Vacant Property Tax to help bring more properties back into use across the country.” This Scheme is part of the Government’s Our Rural Future policy and the recently published Town Centre First policy, which aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction and breathe new life into our town centres. It also delivers on the ambition set out in Pathway 4 of Housing for All which aims to address vacancy and make efficient use of existing housing stock. The application form, eligibility criteria and associated FAQs will provide additional information to people who would like to apply for the grant. Further information will be available from the Vacant Homes Officer in each local authority.

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ANOTHER STEP CLOSER TO ACHIEVING GENDER BALANCE ON IRISH CORPORATE BOARDS

Ireland has moved another step closer to achieving better gender representation on our corporate boards, a local TD has said. TD for Dublin Mid West, Deputy Emer Higgins was speaking after the Second Stage debate in the Dáil recently on her Private Member’s Bill, the Irish Corporate Governance (Gender Balance) Bill 2022. The Bill would require all companies to have 33% of each gender on their board within a year of commencing the legislation, and 40% within three years.

Deputy Higgins said: “The international experience tells us that quotas are an effective way of improvement the representation of women on corporate boards and it is my ambition that this Bill will pave the way for balanced representation of both men and women in leadership roles in business. “Boardroom gender quotas have been successfully

implemented in a number of European countries. They are advocated at EU level and were a recommendation of the Citizens’ Assembly on gender equality last year,” said Deputy Higgins.

“A recent report by the National Women’s Council of Ireland sets out the impact that boardroom gender quotas could have in Ireland, and I was delighted to collaborate with them on this Bill. “Currently, we use soft targets to measure and drive the representation of women in the boardroom and it is a welcome start, however, gender balance in our boardrooms is not improving quickly enough. “We have made good progress on state boards but it has took us 25 years to reach the target of 40%, which was first introduced in 1993 and we simply can’t wait that long to see similar progress on non-state boards. “A recent report by Balance

for Better Business showed that only 19 of the 39 listed boards have met the 2022 targets of 30% female representation for the ISEQ20 companies and 22% for the other listed companies. “ISEQ20 companies now have an average female representation of 32% at board level which is very welcome, however, the boards of other listed companies have an average of only 23% female representation and 13% of all listed Irish companies have no female board members at all. “So while targets are improving the situation somewhat, they’re not doing enough which is why we need quotas. The case for legislative gender quotas on boards is made all the more convincing when we look at the international experience. “Norway was the first country in the world to impose gender quotas on

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boards back in 2006 and in doing so increased their female representation on board from 5% in 2001 to 40% in 2008 within two years of enacting their legislation.

“Norway is not alone; they are top of a growing list of countries favouring gender quotas as a means of boosting gender balance on corporate boards such as Belgium, France, Germany, Iceland, India, Italy, Pakistan and Spain who have all seen the benefits of quotas. I think it is time that Ireland follows the example of so many of our European neighbours by introducing gender quotas in our boardrooms. “After over 10 years of having this discussion at a European level, an EU deal to introduce 40% gender quotas at a board-room level has now been agreed which I think makes it is the perfect time to advance the Corporate Governance

(Gender Balance) Bill 2021. “There is no reason Ireland should be waiting until 2026; we need to get a head start and ensure we are more than ready to implement EU measures when they are introduced,” added Deputy Higgins. “Quotas redistribute power at the top of the labour market and that has positive trickle-down benefits for middle-management, recruitment and improving financial performance. “Including women in the boardroom ensures that companies draw from a wide range of talent and more diverse perspectives are incorporated which leads to greater innovation, higher productivity, and better working conditions and these findings are evident in the research of Deloitte, McKinsey, Credit Suisse, Catalyst and MSCI. “The 2020 McKinsey & Company Diversity Wins Report actually found that companies whose boards

are in the top quartile of gender diversity are 28% more likely than their peers to outperform financially. “The research and the international experience speak for themselves balanced boards are better for representation and the advancement of women in corporate world and also lead to better business and financial outcomes. “This Bill is about breaking the cycle of replacing like with like and encouraging organisations to look outside the box or their norm when recruiting executive board members, to give more women a chance and to start putting the work in now to ensure the talent pool of board-ready women only gets bigger. “And it is my ambition that both men and women will have equal opportunity to not just get their foot in the door, but to earn a seat at the boardroom table,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

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WHY A CAREER IN SECURITY COULD BE FOR YOU Provincial to host recruitment day as it expands operations in Ireland

Irish corporate security company, Provincial, is hosting a recruitment day in Dublin as it looks to expand its operations in Ireland. Headquartered in Kildare, Provincial already employs over 400 people in Ireland, UK, Germany and France. The recruitment day offers the opportunity to speak with the team about a career in security. While most industries in Ireland have been heavily impacted in various ways by the coronavirus pandemic, the security industry has witnessed rapid growth. The past 12 months have seen a dramatic shift in emphasis toward safety at work and office security. Director of Human Resources of Provincial Anthea Lalor said, “Our recruitment day offers people the opportunity to learn about the benefits of a career in security. If you’re a student, returning to work after a break, feel

like starting a new career, or if you have worked in hospitality, tourism or any trade that involves dealing with people we want to hear from you.” The roles available will include Lobby Officers, Corporate Front of House, Night Security and Security Officers. Provincial is actively recruiting new employees to work in Dublin. “We want to change the stigma around the type of people who work in security” Anthea continued. “We are looking for people with a focus on customer service and who can work as part of a diverse team. We offer full training to those who are new to the industry and there are opportunities available to suit different working arrangements including part-time hours and family-friendly shift options.” Founded in 1969 by Captain Karl Dunleavy, Provincial is the only

Security Company to hold ISIA Qualsec Platinum, Excellence Through People and a Great Place to Work Award. Provincial was first awarded the Qualsec Platinum in 2014 by the Irish Security Industry Association, it is the highest level of award a company can receive. As well as having been accredited by Excellence through People since 2012, Provincial has been recognised by Great Places to Work as a Best Workplace.

to work schemes, external education programme and much more. Provincial’s recruitment day takes place in the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel, Clondalkin Dublin 22 from 10.00 am to

5.00 pm on Wednesday 27th July. Drop in at any time and one of the team will be happy to have a chat with you. For parents who would like to attend, there will be a child-friendly space for children. If you can’t attend

the Recruitment Day, the company are inviting applicants to send their cv to jobs@provincial.ie For more information, visit here https://www. provincial.ie/

Provincial provides a range of competitive benefits that recognise the calibre of their employees. Their package includes pathways to career progression, with many employees having started out as a Security Officer before progressing and continuing their careers in a variety of areas, including in leadership positions. Employees can avail of other benefits including maternity top-up payments, wellness and bike

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RECRUITMENT OPEN DAY Wednesday 27th July, 10 am to 5 pm, Louis Fitzgerald Hotel, Dublin 22 If you’re a student, returning to work after a break, feel like starting a new career, or if you have worked in hospitality, tourism or any trade that involves dealing with people, come along to our open day and find out more about a career with Provincial. You don’t need security experience to join Provincial; you bring your own set of skills to the team. You are welcome to drop in on the day, but if you can’t make it, send your cv to jobs@provincial.ie and a member of the team will be in touch. Benefits include: n n n n

Wellness & Bike to Work Scheme Maternity Top Up Payments Training & Development Industry Leading Wage Package

www.provincial.ie Provincial Security Services Ltd is an equal opportunities employer

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€5.4M SEIZED FROM CRIMINALS BY CAB MUST BE REINVESTED IN DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITIES

TD for Dublin Mid-West Mark Ward has welcomed news that the Criminal Assets Bureau recovered almost €11 million from criminals last year. But he has urged the government to ringfence money returned to the Exchequer and reinvest it back into disadvantaged communities. Teachta Ward said: “I welcome the news that CAB seized almost €5.4million in assets and cash from drug dealers and criminal gangs last year.

This money was returned to the Exchequer. “CAB also returned €5.5 million to six victims of cryptocurrency theft. “Sinn Féin has always advocated that any money returned to the Exchequer by CAB should be ringfenced and put back into communities to tackle disadvantage, and to fund drug prevention, treatment and rehabilitation services.

“Such a fund could also be used for local sports clubs, youth clubs, employment centres and other valuable services in our communities.

“This would help communities impacted the most by organised crime to be able to build resilience and stop the next generation of our young people becoming attracted to the criminal lifestyle. “Last year, I had the Proceeds of Crime (Investment in Disadvantaged Communities) (Amendment) Bill 2021 passed at second stage in the Oireachtas. This Bill would see the money seized by CAB reinvested into the areas most affected by crime. “I also had the Coercion of a Minor (Misuse of Drugs) (Amendment) Bill passed 1st stage this year. “This legislation is focused on the adults involved in criminality and drug

dealing, who target and coerce children to move and supply drugs for them. “If the government is serious about giving disadvantaged communities the tools to tackle organised criminals then they would allow both these pieces of legislation to proceed through the Oireachtas. “Earlier this year, the Minister announced the Community Safety Innovation Fund for some money seized by CAB for community safety initiatives.

€2 million was allocated to this scheme. “While this is a step in the right direction, it does not go far enough, and there is no guarantee that community groups on the front line in disadvantaged communities will receive this funding. “It does not happen by accident that most of the money seized by CAB

originates from areas that are highly disadvantaged. “ D i s a d v a n t a g e d

communities are not looking for handouts, what we are looking for is for

the money that originated in our communities to be returned.”

INCREASED SUPPORT WILL GIVE MEDIA ORGANISATIONS A STRONG AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE A reformed model of public funding will ensure increased supports for media organisations which play a crucial role in our communities, a Senator has said. Senator Seery Kearney was speaking as Government announced a major initiative to support Ireland’s media sector following the publication of the report of the Future of Media Commission. Senator Seery Kearney said: “Radio and newspaper outlets, as well as national outlets,

are the cornerstone of our democratic system and do exemplary work in providing trustworthy information and entertainment to listeners, viewers and readers in our communities. “Government has agreed in principle to accept 49 of the 50 recommendations in the report of the Future of Media Commission, which will chart the way to a resilient future for the sector by delivering a number of measures over the next decade. “After examining the options for generating additional funding, Government has decided to maintain but overhaul the current licence fee. “This minimises the risk of actual or perceived political interference in media independence and also reduces the burden on the Exchequer, when compared to a fully taxation-based funding model. “I am pleased to see the Commission’s recommendation that a new Media Fund be established to support the media and journalism sector and and be open to broadcast, print and online media. This is in keeping with the Fine Gael submission to the Commission. “The Fund will allow for the provision of supports on a platformneutral basis, and enable

the targeting of supports for particular content, such as culture or news, or areas of particular need, for example at community or local level. Local Democracy Reporting, News Reporting, Courts Reporting, and Community Media will be supported under the fund. “The report also recommends a number of other significant actions to help ensure greater equality, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in the media sector. “Government will also work to ensure that the increased investment will provide greater opportunities for the entire independent production sector, and the wider creative sector. “A Technical Group will be set up to examine options for the reform of the TV Licence and a report is expected to be brought to Government in November 2022,” Senator Seery Kearney said. Welcoming the publication of the report, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said: “A bedrock of our democracy, public service broadcasting has a remit to ensure that no one voice should dominate the debate, and that a plurality of views is always represented. “It strives – and often achieves - high standards of independence and balance. I believe this report will help to ensure that it has a future.”

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INDIAN ORIGIN DOCTOR STRIVES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE HEALTHCARE IN LUCAN The overseas doctors in Ireland are silently becoming the ‘invisible workhorse’, especially in the health sector. Many meritorious students migrating to the country in the last decade are proving their forte in the field, getting all the vocational training that they need to become the most competent general practitioners that the land deserves and, consequently, staying back to serve a healthier Ireland. Dr Pramod Kumar Agarwal, who is vocationally trained in Ireland as a GP, is planning to start his GP practice in Lucan, Co Dublin. Apart from the fact that Dr Agarwal’s clinic, ‘Agarwal Wellness and Medical Centre’ is going to be one of the youngest GP practices in Lucan, it is going to be different in various aspects. As Dr Agarwal and his team mention, they look beyond, keeping pace with the growing population and health

needs in the area. The full range of medical services that the team wishes to cover would include one and all. Understanding that ‘Outstanding Care of Generations’ is a big responsibility, Dr Agarwal, himself a Medical Internist, and seasoned in medical writing, research and academia has gathered an excellent team to provide the best possible services.

The team is also striving to look into the oftenoverlooked ‘smaller things’ that eventually help to serve the patients better. To reinforce the ‘Patient First and Every Contact Counts’ approach, the team would offer flexible appointment hours - so that anyone can have a check-up at a convenient time. A strategic location in Lucan village with ample street parking facility would add to the ease, the up-skilled staff believes. Also, the team is ready to welcome the marginalized communities,

immigrants, LGBTQ+ representatives, and other ethnic groups in open arms.

The practice location is well known to the locals as Dr Panos Harris, a wellrespected GP who served the area for more than 50 years from the premises. He states ‘I wish Dr Agarwal well and I feel that he will add to the already excellent services provided by other GPs in the area’. Local Councillor Paul Gogarty, who has also highlighted the shortage of GP services in Lucan, is actively supporting the new venture, having made a submission in support of Dr Agarwal’s planning application to restore a GP surgery at this location on Main Street. Dr Agarwal’s dream project gets the auspices of Dr D Lombard, a well-known GP in the area and local medical education tutor, who noted that ‘I welcome

the arrival of a new medical service for the people of Lucan. Medical services are in great demand and the existing services are regrettably insufficient to meet this need. Recent retirements of several local General Practitioners have led to a scarcity of access to essential healthcare. I welcome the arrival of Dr Agarwal and his new clinic and I am sure that his service will be welcomed by patients seeking to obtain local medical services’.

Dr Agarwal is excited and inspired to inaugurate his practice. As he quips, ‘I am thrilled to open the service to the residents of Lucan. I wish to change the public perception that it does not always need a fortune to claim a well-deserved, healthier life. Evidence has shown that the local people having their own general practice clinic for continued care is a potent intervention in itself and it translates into better improved health

and wellbeing’. He plans to start attending to both private and GMS patients from the autumn of 2022. Headed by Dr Pramod Kumar Agarwal, the practice has its premises at 2 Churchview, Main Street, Lucan. It is scheduled to remain open for 08:00-18:00 hours Monday to Friday. Apart from a one-stop solution to all medical needs, the

caregivers plan to provide value added services, such as performing minor surgeries, joint injections, assistance in insurance, maternity and infant care, and COVID-19 vaccinations, among others. For more information see their website www.awamc. ie. To contact practice email info@awamc.ie or call (01) 525 9777.

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MOTORING LIFE

WITH

NEW MAZDA CX-5 IS DESIGNED TO IMPRESS

By Breda Corrigan A significantly updated version of Mazda’s stylish, spacious and dynamic SUV, the CX5, is now on sale in Mazda dealerships across Ireland. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 introduces ‘Mi-Drive’ drive-mode selection, enhanced driving dynamics, new styling and stronger grade differentiation, improvements to on-board packaging and practicality, and an expanded range of safety features. The CX-5 accounts for almost 20% of Mazda’s new car registrations across Europe, and as such, is an incredibly important car for the Japanese vehicle manufacturer. Next-Gen Skyactiv Architecture. Mazda’s intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) enables the driver to select the most appropriate drive mode with one touch of a switch. Some model grades equipped with i-Activ AWD further benefit from an Off-Road Mode, which makes driving feel more natural on rough terrain and slippery surfaces. Mazda’s next generation of Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture has now been applied to the new CX-5, further evolving the bodyshell, suspension and seats to enhance ride comfort and reduce fatigue. Road noise has also been greatly reduced, particularly when driving on rough surfaces such as gravel. New Look, More Variants. The new Mazda CX-5 features new front and rear bumpers, a new front grille design, redesigned front and rear LED lamp clusters, even more safety equipment, and an expanded line-up (bringing the total number of variants to six), which features three new specifications: Newground,

Homura and GT Lux, in addition to GSL, GT and GT Sport. These new grades incorporate subtle individual differences to define their distinctive characters. Additionally, numerous interior elements have been refined and upgraded to raise the quality of both the cabin environment and its HMI technology. Connectivity has evolved to support both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, and the latest MyMazda App Connected Services features too. Engine, Drivetrain Options.

and

Transmission

Powering the new Mazda CX-5 are a choice of 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G (petrol) and 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D (diesel) engines which produce 165PS and 150PS respectively. All CX-5 variants send power to the front wheels, with a 4WD drivetrain reserved for the range-topping GT Lux specification, in which case the diesel engine is boosted to 184PS. A six-speed manual transmission comes as standard across all trim levels, with a six-speed automatic available as an option in GT Sport, Homura and GT Lux variants. Test Car Details. My test car was a CX-5 Homura 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D six-speed manual, which was finished in Polymetal Grey metallic paintwork. With 150PS (148bhp) and 380Nm of torque on offer, the 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 9.9-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 204km/h. The Homura variant boasts a sporty gloss black finish to the front grille, signature wing, lower bumper sections, wheel arches,

door garnishes and door mirrors, giving the body a taut, athletic look. Stylish 19” alloy wheels are finished in black metallic paint, and the front grille incorporates red accents, while red stitching adorns the black leather seats, steering wheel, gear shift lever and door panels. Key standard ‘Homura’ specification includes electricallyadjustable driver and front passenger seats, black headlining cloth, DAB radio with premium Bose™ Centrepoint™ surround sound system, Bluetooth™, multiple USB ports, Multimedia Commander with a 10.25” colour display screen, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support, Lane-Keep Assist, High Beam Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Guided Cruise Control, black leather upholstery with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and a keyless entry & start system, along with a host of additional comfort, convenience, infotainment and safety systems. The smooth, contoured body panels and attractive proportions of the CX-5 make it one of the most handsome mid-size SUV’s around, while its luxuriously-appointed cabin feels a class above many of its rivals too. The six-speed manual transmission in my test car was easy to navigate through, and it helps deliver admirable fuel economy of up to 50 mpg (5.6l/100km) on a combined WLTP driving cycle. On the road, the CX-5 performs every task asked of it in a confident and controlled manner. The steering is nicely weighted, neither too light nor artificially heavy, and as you navigate corners, the CX-5 feels like it is pivoting about an axis close to its centre, feeling light on its feet, yet dynamically precise in its road-holding ability. The

brake pedal has a well-weighted feel to it also, and the overall ride quality in the CX-5 is smooth without ever feeling sloppy, while additional sound-proofing ensures the interior stays nice and quiet even at motorway speeds. Mazda engineers are justifiably proud of the new CX-5’s luxury car-rivalling cabin, which is tastefully designed and beautifully built, with plenty of upmarket materials and high-quality controls. The climate controls are mounted at the bottom of the centre stack, and they are easy to reach, without the need for the driver to take their eyes off the road. The CX-5’s boot space measures in at a respectable 522-litres behind the rear seats, with the added advantage of having a split false floor that can be a big help in securing bags of shopping, and the likes. For bulkier loads, the rear seats can be dropped to reveal a cavernous open space behind the driver and front seat passenger. Verdict & Pricing. Overall, the new Mazda CX-5 SUV is superstylish, terrific to drive, and comes with an upmarket interior that offers excellent comfort and practicality. If Mazda’s aim was to deliver a premium yet affordable SUV, it has certainly hit the target. The new Mazda CX-5 is available to order in Mazda dealerships nationwide now. Pricing starts at €36,745 (ex-works) for the GS-L 2.0-litre petrol engine variant, rising to €59,370 for the CX-5 GT-Lux 4WD 2.0-litre diesel (184PS) automatic. Strong performance, excellent driving dynamics, and an upmarket, luxurious cabin should seal the deal for many potential buyers.

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ONGOING DUMPING IN LOCAL LUCAN SCHOOL

A concerned local resident recently contacted Newsgroup to highlight an ongoing dumping issue in Lucan. The resident said “There is an ongoing problem of trash tipping outside the school gates of Griffeen Valley Educate Together in Lucan. It’s been occurring for months. The trash is physically on the private property of the small retail park beside the school. All attempts to contact the property management company have failed and all requests to the council to clear it have

been rejected because it is “private” property”.

The local continued “We initially attempted to clear it ourselves when the problem first started, but it is ongoing. The trash includes many used baby nappies, take out containers, beer bottles (some broken), food waste, etc. It is disgusting and, worse, a health hazard. We now see rats scurrying about. We’ve tried contacting our local councillors from all parties, the Gardai, and as I mentioned earlier,

the management company responsible for the property. Not only is it a dangerous health hazard for the students of our school, there is also a Giraffe crèche just opposite this large pile of waste.” Newsgroup contacted Emer Higgins TD, the local TD said “Anecdotally, we are seeing a local increase in illegal dumping and flytipping happening which is impacting the local environment and creating issues for businesses and residents but also looks

O’CONNOR RAISES LOCAL HEALTH ISSUES Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor raised local health issues at the monthly meeting of the Regional Health Forum Dublin Mid Leinster held in Tullamore. He called for action on the waiting lists at Tallaght University Hospital and sought assurances. He was told by Trevor O’Callaghan, the CEO of Dublin Midlands Hospital Group that “Over the last 12 months Tallaght University Hospital has made a concerted effort to reduce waiting lists. The number of patients waiting over 12 months on the hospital outpatient waiting lists is down 14%. Similarly the number of patients waiting over 12 months on the inpatient and endoscopy

lists are down 37% and 70% respectively. The greatest reduction can be seen in the day case waiting lists. Due to the opening of the Reeves Day Surgery Centre the number of patients waiting over 12 months for day case surgery is down 89%. Tallaght University Hospital remains committed to continuing this very positive improvement in their waiting lists.” Councillor O’Connor told the meeting that this is an important issue for his community and the wider catchment area and promised to maintain pressure in the matter. On another subject, Charlie O’Connor also asked about proposals for the use of the site of the former nursing home at Crooksling and

received a report from Mary O’Kelly, the Chief Officer that “The HSE has notified Minister Donnelly’s Office that the site of the former Nursing Home at Crooksling has been made known to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and Heritage as a vacant property which they may wish to consider in response to the Humanitarian crisis. OPW, acting on behalf of the Department of Housing have been in touch with HSE Capital & Estates indicating their intention to inspect the site. HSE Capital & Estates await the confirmation of a suitable date for inspection. The Minister’s Office has asked us to keep him informed.”

COMPLETE LACK OF URGENCY IN OPENING EATING DISORDER SERVICE IN MOUNT CARMEL Mark Ward TD has said the delays in the long-awaited eating disorder service in Mount Carmel Hospital are unacceptable. The facility was due to open in late 2021 before being initially delayed until June 2022. Teachta Ward has received a response from the HSE this week to say the facility will now not be open until quarter 2 in 2023. Teachta Ward said “There is a lack of urgency by this Government to address the lack of service faced by people suffering from Eating Disorders. “In October 2021, that a new eating disorder unit at Mount Carmel Hospital was due to open by late 2021 before the HSE confirmed in December that it would not open until June 2022 at the earliest. “Fast forward to March when I confirmation that construction much-needed facility will now finished until late 2022, at the

received of this not be earliest.

“Recently I received confirmation that the facility will now not be open until quarter 2 in 2023. “This is a year and half after the date that the Minister first promised that it would open. “There is a complete lack of urgency to tackle eating disorders. The amount of people presenting for treatment with eating disorders has increased over the last few years. “I asked the HSE to provide me with the additional costs of delay in the construction of the Mount Carmel eating disorder service. “The HSE provided me with the overall cost of €2.8 million but not was originally budgeted for. “We have seen in the past the huge cost overruns in the National Children’s Hospital. “I have submitted further questions to the Minister asking for this information. “The Minister also needs to give answers if there were cost overruns in Mount Carmel and give assurances that the facility will open to patients this year.”

awful. “Anyone who sees people engaging in illegal dumping should report it immediately to the EPA’s 24hr helpline on 0818 33 55 99 and be sure to take note of the perpetrators car reg

if they have one. “Funding has been made available by Central Government to Local Authorities to support waste and litter disposal but I think in the case of illegal dumping and fly-tipping,

increasing resources isn’t necessarily going to have an impact, the thing that will have the most impact is reporting those engaging in illegal dumping so they can be held accountable”

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PALMERSTOWN CAMERA CLUB END OF YEAR EXHIBITION

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.M.

Palmerstown Camera Club held their end of year exhibition a few weeks ago in the Parish Centre in Palmerstown. A big thank you to all who helped set it up and for the smooth running of it. Also, thanks to all who came along to view it over the weekend. There will be a smaller scaled-down version of the exhibition in Lucan Library for July and thanks the Lucan Library for hosting it. And at the library exhibition, you will be able to enter a competition to win a print by voting for your favourite image. At the exhibition the club handed out yearly awards and pictured are all the recipients, congratulations to all the winners and thanks to judge on the night Paul Stanley. Over the summer months, the club runs photography outings to places like Bective abbey, Glendalough and Skerries to mention just a few. 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. Pic Credit: Martin Devlin

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. M.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. 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.R. PRAYER TO ST ANNE TO OBTAIN SOME SPECIAL FAVOUR Glorious St Anne, filled with compassion for those who invoke thee, and with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles, I cast myself at thy feet, and humbly beg of thee to take the present affair which I recommend to thee under thy special protection. Vouchsafe to commend it to thy

Daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. Above all obtain for me the grace of one day beholding my God face to face, and with thee and Mary and all the saints praising and blessing Him for all eternity. Good St Anne, Mother of her who is our life, our sweetness and our hope, pray to her for us, and obtain our request. (Say three times.) P.R. NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. You who solve all problems, who lights all roads so that I can obtain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and to forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life, you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and to confirm that I never want to be separated from you even and in spite of all material illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. (mention favors) This prayer must be said for 3 consecutive days and published immediately After 3 days the favor requested will be granted even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be publised immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. P.R. Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven. Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God; Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me you are my Mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity. (Mention your request here) There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (say three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands. (say three times). Amen P.R. DAILY PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH FOR EMPLOYMENT Dear St. Joseph, You were yourself once faced with the responsibility of providing the necessities of life for Jesus and Mary. Look down with Fatherly compassion upon me in my anxiety over my present inability to support my family. Please help me to find gainful employment very soon, so that this heavy burden of concern will be lifted from my heart, and that I am soon able to provide for those whom God has entrusted to my care. Help us to guard against bitterness and discouragement so that we may emerge from this trial spiritually enriched and with even greater blessing from God. Amen P.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: NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. If you require any further information please call 01 45 19 000 or email: info@newsgroup.ie.