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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 20th. FEB. ‘17 Tel: 01 451 3822 / 01 451 9000

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New legal protections on domestic violence requires additional resources for legal aid

Representatives of legal rights group FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) ecently went to the United Nations HQ in Geneva to raise concerns about the enforcement of women’s rights in Ireland. The UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against

Women heard from a broad range of civil society organisations on how the human rights of women in Ireland are being realised. Among these, FLAC highlighted the need to make the State civil legal aid scheme more accessible. “Civil legal aid is a

gatekeeper right it unlocks access to other basic rights that promote and protect women. In Ireland there are substantial barriers to this vital mechanism. At present, the means test, financial eligibility criteria and financial contribution requirements make civil

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legal aid inaccessible for many women. Even those who qualify for civil legal aid may face long delays in seeing a solicitor,” said FLAC Chief Executive Eilis Barry ahead of the UN briefing.

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FLAC is calling for financial eligibility criteria - which have not been reviewed since 2006 - to be updated to realistic levels, so that women without sufficient means can access legal aid to enforce their rights. However the State will need to review its allocation of resources to the Legal Aid Board once the Board has completed its current review of financial eligibility criteria.

LEIXLIP ROAD, LUCAN

The organisation is particularly concerned that the Legal Aid Board has not yet waived its requirement for women affected by domestic violence to pay financial contributions for legal aid when seeking safety,

CONT. PAGE 2

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FROM PAGE 1

protection and barring orders. “We believe that requiring women affected by domestic violence to make a financial contribution for essential legal aid puts an additional and avoidable burden on them in seeking access to protection in difficult circumstances. The Legal Aid Board can and should waive this requirement and will need additional resources to do so,” added Ms Barry. The State also needs to review resources available to the Legal Aid Board every time it introduces legislation that is likely to impact on demand for legal aid services. “If the new and welcome provisions in the recent Domestic Violence Bill are to be truly effective and enforceable, the Legal Aid Board needs to be properly resourced” said Ms Barry.

FLAC also highlighted concerns regarding the implementation of the new Public Sector Duty. Since 2014, a broad range of statutory and public sector bodies must, in carrying out

their functions, have regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, promote equality, and protect the human rights of employees and service users. According to Ms Barry, this

potential has yet to be fully realised. “The Public Sector Duty is a critical tool for gender mainstreaming, but government departments and public bodies are not doing enough to embed equality and human rights

practices within the public sector. The Duty must be implemented to ensure that women in all their diversity are at the heart of all public action, policy and procedure,” she said.

LEGAL AID CONTRIBUTION MUST BE REVIEWED TO SUPPORT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS Vulnerable victims pay a minimum contribution of €130 towards civil legal aid

Fianna Fáil Senator and Seanad Spokesperson for Justice, Lorraine CliffordLee, has said the minimum contribution payment towards civil legal aid when making a domestic violence related application to the District Court, should be significantly lowered. The Senator recently raised her concerns with the Chairman of the Legal Aid Board, Mr. Philip O’Leary during the Joint Oireachtas Justice and Equality Committee. “Over the past two years, leading organisation Women’s Aid has reported alarmingly high figures of domestic violence related crimes. In fact, some 11,000

incidents of domestic violence are reported in Ireland annually, yet only few result in arrest or conviction,” explained Clifford-Lee. “Those who are courageous enough to walk out of their home, brave enough to take that leap and get away from their abuser must be better protected by our State. “The last Government more than doubled the minimum contribution payment from €50 to €130. Victims of domestic violence are required to make this payment if they wish to have legal representation through the Legal Aid Board which puts an intolerable burden on these people at a very sensitive time.

“The very strict financial criteria often acts as a barrier to many victims receiving legal representation through the Legal Aid Board and sufficient access to justice. In many cases, this means being left without representation in court. “During a time when more focus needs to be placed on supporting the victims of domestic abuse and sexual crime in Ireland, lengthy waiting times for legal aid support must be alleviated. A review of eligibility for legal aid and the waiver scheme must be undertaken by this Government as soon as possible to offer better support to victims seeking justice,” concluded Senator Clifford-Lee.

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FIGURES REVEAL MAJOR CONTRADICTIONS IN DISABILITY APPLICATION PROCESS According to the Sinn Féin TD, figures recently provided by the Department of Social Protection reveal an underlying contradiction in how the Department are dealing with applications for a Disability Allowance, as two in every three decisions are being overturned when appealed. Deputy Seán Crowe stated: “There is something clearly wrong with the current application process for getting a Disability Allowance. Figures released by the Department of Social Protection show that 42% of applications for Disability Allowance were refused, but on appeal two-thirds of these were then accepted. “There are also a large number of applicants who

don’t appeal the original decision. “The current system is chaotic and the major problems that clearly exist in the application process need to be urgently addressed and rectified. “Right across the Social Protection portfolio there are other payments with high refusal rates, and this demonstrates gaping flaws in the various application processes.” Crowe continued: “The high rate of decisions overturned by the Disability Appeals Office makes it clear that problems exist in the initial application process for a Disability Allowance. “It is an unnecessarily difficult and frustrating process for people, who in

many cases have serious medical issues and are at a really low point in their lives. The majority of cases involve people in desperate need of welfare supports and the current process is cruel. “To make matters worse many are then forced to go through the extra procedure of a lengthy appeal when they clearly fit the criteria, as the figures on successful appeals confirm. “The Minister needs to urgently act on this issue and the current shambles cannot be allowed to drift along. Everyday some poor unfortunate is caught up in a system that isn’t responding in a timely manner to their needs and leaving them even more vulnerable.”

LUCAN STUDENTS TO TACKLE BODY IMAGE WITH YOUNG SOCIAL INNOVATORS PROJECT ***by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly

Lucan Community College YSI group A group of 16 students from Lucan Community College are determined to highlight positive body image with their Young Social Innovators project – Mind Over Matter. The transition year students believe that the issue of body image is hugely important and they want to help change young people’s perception of beauty. Spokesperson for the group Gayatri Sangra explained that the topic is something which can have a negative impact on mental health. She said: “Rather than telling people how the ‘ideal’ body should be we, as a group, want people to be happy in their own skin. From different shapes to different styles, we hope to promote individuality and the acceptance of varied

and diverse ideas and images in our society. “We want to fight against the generic concept of beauty and redefine the word itself. In doing so, we also hope to educate many of our peers on the importance of accepting yourself as who you are and not as a perfect model our society today forces upon us.” The group started its campaign by delivering a presentation to first year students at Lucan Community College to highlight the issue. As well as speaking to first years over a week-long period during SPHE classes the group also raised the issue of body image for men – something which is not widely discussed according to the students.

To raise funds for the project the transition year group also held a bake-sale and no-uniform day in Lucan and is in the process of working with Jigsaw to raise awareness of the issue. Gayatri said: “We believe body image to be an important topic because if it is not treated well it can lead to self-harm, depression, anxiety, ill physical health and much more. The fact that it isn’t talked about often is what makes the topic to be even more important. “With 400 new cases of eating disorders emerging every year in Ireland we realised that body negativity is a very dangerous topic at the moment that didn’t get a lot of attention. We wanted to change that!”

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TOUGHER MEASURES FOR THOSE CONVICTED OF SELLING ILLEGAL SYNTHETIC DRUGS CALLED FOR Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, has called for tougher measures to be taken against those convicted of selling and possessing illegal synthetic drugs following statements from an assistant state pathologist. “An assistant state pathologist has recently revealed that synthetic drugs have become strikingly common as the cause for sudden unexpected deaths throughout the country. “Furthermore, one particular synthetic drug, U-4, was named by a HSE consultant psychiatrist as the cause of over 50 deaths since 2015.” Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Noone urged that more needed to be done in the interest of Irish society’s wellbeing. “As a result of this unfortunate phenomenon, it is clear that new measures

need to be introduced. Fines and community service sentences are not enough to deter those distributing and selling these substances. “These forms of drug are extremely dangerous and we need to get to grips with preventing their circulation. “We thought we had solved this problem in 2010 when a number of synthetic drugs were banned under the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010 and the Misuse of Drugs Act, but there is clearly still work to be done. This is an urgent matter in the interests of the wellbeing of Irish society. “Increased efforts are urgently needed to stop these drugs getting into the hands of dealers. Furthermore, I am calling for tougher measures to be taken against those convicted of selling and possessing these illegal synthetic drugs.”

PILOT INJECTION CENTRE IS ONLY A STEP TOWARDS BROADER SOLUTION FOR DRUG ADDICTS Fianna Fáil TD and Spokesperson for National Drugs Strategy, Jack Chambers has said that the introduction of a supervised injection facility on a pilot basis will help to avoid drug induced deaths but is only part of the solution to the overall drug problem in Dublin. The Government has approved legislation that will allow for the establishment of a medically supervised injecting centre in Ireland. The legislation is expected to be brought before the Dáil in the coming weeks and the first pilot centre should open in Dublin’s city centre this autumn. Fianna Fáil look forward to studying the Bill in detail. “There are too many drug addicts and not enough is being done to support detox centres.A supervised injection centre is a small step towards effective treatment, rehabilitation and intervention aimed at harm reduction for those who are particularly vulnerable and suffering from addiction. While I understand some of the

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legitimate reservations raised, a centre will provide safe space for drug users to help ensure they use clean needles and dispose of them properly,” explained Deputy Chambers. “The centre has the potential to become a broader term viable public health measure to encourage interaction with medical practitioners and other service providers. The Minister has yet to confimr where this pilot centre will be located and it is important it is not near any school. “Given the level of

opposition following today’s Cabinet approval, specific details must be clarified during the forthcoming Dáil debate on the legislation. Concerns such as the centre’s proximity to schools and children must be clarified to ensure full public confidence. Working closely with the Gardaí is also crucial. “For the pilot centre to be successful there will have to be a collaborative effort to closely monitor and continually evaluate the centre when operational. This effort will require the

full co-operation with all stakeholders. “The main objective of the initiative is to save lives as too many addicts are dying from drug overdose. We need to make an effort to minimise the harm associated with injecting drugs by providing a controlled environment. At the very least, an injection centre will give those devastated by addiction the opportunity to seek support while we work to establish more long term solutions to help them beat this terrible addiction.”

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TALLAGHT WOMAN WINS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER AWARD ***By Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly

Tallaght native Sharon Byrne was “shocked, but delighted” when she heard her name announced as winner of the Volunteer of the Year award at the recent

LAMA Awards. The 11th Community and Council Awards took place earlier in February at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry.

Pictured L-R: Presenter Cllr. Noel Bourke from Offaly County Council, Cllr. Guss O’Connell (Mayor of South Dublin County Council), Sharon Byrne, Cllr. Mags Murray, Cllr. Deirdre O’Donovan

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Sharon explained that the competition was of a very high standard and she did not expect to walk away with the volunteer award on the national stage. She was selected for her wide range of volunteer work within the community including helping out at Saoirse Women’s Refuge, VISIT Homeless charity and the Tallaght St. Patrick’s Day committee. The Avonbeg resident said: “I wasn’t expecting to win as it is a national award and

I was up against so many great nominees. I feel very passionate about the area I live in. I feel Tallaght gets some bad press in the media and want to highlight that Tallaght is a great place full of great people doing great work.” Sharon was nominated for the award by councillor Deirdre O’Donovan who was present on the night to see the community volunteer honoured. Having volunteered for many years the mother-of-two

explained that she enjoys helping out across the whole community. She said: “I do all sorts of volunteering. I help fundraise for local events and charities including the Autism Support Group, women’s refuge and homeless charities. I help out at family fun days, clean ups in the local area including the ‘Help The Hills’ initiative. Sharon started volunteering when her twin sons were just babies after being inspired

by the volunteer work she saw her mother doing. She said: “I have been volunteering for years in Tallaght and I first got involved in volunteering as my mam was a volunteer in her local community for years.” Local school Kishoge Community College also picked up an award for Best Educational Building at the LAMA ceremony with Maeve Joyce collecting the award on behalf of the secondlevel Lucan school.

FF WILL OPPOSE DUBLIN FIRE BRIGADE SERVICES MERGER HSE proposal to merge services could have huge negative impact on the Capital

Dublin South West TD and Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart has expressed his support for the full retention of emergency services provided by Dublin Fire Brigade across the city and county. The Deputy made his comments after securing a special Dáil debate with Fianna Fáil TDs, Sean Haughey and Darragh O’Brien on the future of Dublin Fire Brigade Ambulance Services. “Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) has been providing crucial integrated Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Ambulance services to the four Dublin local authorities since 1898. Almost 800 trained firefighter paramedics work 24/7, 365 days a year to provide immediate medical assistance to members of public in need of treatment,” explained the Deputy. “DFB have a long, excellent history of patient centred care and best practice. In fact in a submission made to the EU Court of Justice, it was suggested that the model of emergency response which is ‘concentrated in one public body is an advantage in terms of health and public safety.

centre would have huge implication on the safe management of an already large volume of 999 EMS calls. “Removing any element of DFB’s fire based EMS system will have an adverse effect on safeguarding those in our communities. My party

“We must enable the almost 1,000 personnel employed, to maximise service delivery and provide greater efficiency to protect those in fire stations across Dublin who provide a full-time fire, rescue, and ambulance service which serves our whole community,” concluded the Deputy.

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“I am therefore deeply concerned by plans revealed by the HSE which propose to remove the delivery of Dublin’s ambulance service from DFB and instead merge the service with the National Ambulance Service. “The additional proposal to transfer the delivery of services from the DFB call

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FIGHT TO SAVE ST. BRIGID’S CROOKSLING MCDONALD’S OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW RESTAURANT IN DUBLIN’S CITYWEST WITH FAMILY FUN DAY Three quarters of the 65 new jobs created have been filled by local people NEEDS TO BE ESCALATED

Local TD John Lahart has said that the battle to save St. Brigid’s Nursing Home in Crooksling from closure needs to be escalated. Lahart was responding to a response he received from the HSE to a Parliamentary Question he placed about saving the elder care facility and expanding and enhancing it for the future. The HSE have stated that the decision to close St. Brigid’s, Crooksling, “cannot be reversed”.

Lahart went to state that following a presentation made to TDs which he facilitated in Leinster House, by Dr. Ronan Collins - Elder Care specialist in Tallaght Hospital, he has become convinced of the need to expand and develop a further state of the art elder care facility to serve the Tallaght and wider area into the years ahead. Lahart said: “Dr. Collins presented an objective and compelling case as to why

this facility needs to be retained, developed and enhanced. The numbers of senior members in our community in Tallaght who will need to avail of elder care services and a nursing home and allied facilities is going to sky rocket in the next twenty years. At some stage, if we let St. Brigid’s close, we will be returning to the greater Tallaght area looking for a facility to care for our seniors” concluded Lahart.

McDonald’s Restaurants of Ireland have officially opened its new Drive-Thru restaurant, located in the Citywest area of south-west Dublin. As part of this €3.5 million euro investment, 65 new jobs have been created. 49 of the new recruits come from the local area and for 34 of these employees, this is their first step on the career ladder. The Citywest restaurant is McDonald’s 91st restaurant across Ireland. At any one time it can accommodate 150 diners who can also avail of self-order kiosks, Samsung Galaxy tablets and a children’s play area. Customers at the Citywest

Pictured is Amir & his wife Serina Afsar - owner operator of McDonald’s Citywest with some of the staff . Inset: Chris & Elliot Thomas from Blessington enjoying the family fun day at McDonald’s new restaurant in Dublin’s Citywest.

restaurant can also enjoy burgers from the Signature Collection – a thicker cut 100% Irish beef burger, served in a delicious brioche bun and available in Classic, Spicy or BBQ flavour.

Commenting at a family fun day to mark the official opening, McDonald’s Owner Operator, Amir Afsar, said: “Today is a day for celebration and we are delighted to open this new restaurant, which will serve a sizeable community of local businesses and residents in Citywest. I hope visitors will enjoy the facilities we have installed, including new technology and a customised kitchen

where food is cooked fresh to order.” McDonald’s Ireland MD Adrian Crean added: “McDonald’s is committed to delivering great experiences for our customers, providing tasty food in a welcoming atmosphere. As a company, we are proud to bring another 65 jobs on stream and it’s particularly welcome that two thirds of employees at Citywest come from the locality and many are starting out in their working life. I hope they will benefit from the world-class training and flexibility we provide. I would like to wish Amir and his team all the best with this new venture.”

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THE AHMADIYYA MUSLIM YOUTH ASSOCIATION GOVERNMENT CRITICISED OVER DELAY PRESENTED 30 GIFTS TO THE HOMELESS IN ISSUING MEDICAL CARDS

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association is an auxiliary of members up to 40 years of age, within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association. Its aim and goals as stated in its motto is to reform its youth if it seeks to reform a nation. Hence in line with this, its members are pro-active in service to the nation. Raising funds for charities and helping in flood relief schemes are just some examples of its youth's commitment, service and loyalty to their country as taught by the religion of Islam. In light of this on Sunday 5th of February 2017, the Youth Association presented 30 gifts to the homeless with collaboration of Merchant Quay, at 24 Merchant Quay Dublin 8.

As part of their charitable works throughout the year, Ahmadiyya Muslim youths have raised funds to buy thermal undergarments, socks and wash bags for the homeless clients attending the Homeless shelter. Dr. Mamoon Rashid the president of the Youth Association said "As part of our faith we are encouraged to carry out charitable deeds that benefit the most deprived in our society. Throughout the year we run campaigns that help raise funds and help out the community in whichever way we can. Last September we raised €10,000 for cancer research Ireland in our charity walk. This effort to help the homeless is part of our commitment to help whichever way we can in the society."

Pictured (R-L) are Dr. Hassan Ahmad, Dr. Hamid Khan, Dr. Rizwan Ahman, Imam Rabeeb Mirza, Dr. Mamoon Rashid (President of the Youth Orginazation) presenting a gift to Mary Enright and Samantha King (Co-ordinators at Merchant Quay), Fazal Butt, Rizwan Ahmad

Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has criticised the Government’s long delay in issuing medical cards to seriously ill children whose families have access to a Domiciliary Care Allowance. The Sinn Féin TD said that there was a commitment in the last Budget to award medical cards to sick children who qualify for Domiciliary Care allowance, but a shortfall in the funding allocated to the initiative has meant that medical cards are being held up indefinitely in order to save money, regardless of the impact to the children and their families. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “Sinn Féin’s Alternative Budget set aside €17 million to cover the cost of these medical cards. The Government in its wisdom failed to identify in its own budget sufficient funding and that is causing the long delay in seriously sick children receiving a medical card. “Unfortunately for thousands of families across the statethere is no respite. They have sick children, children

who need care, children who desperately need access to services. They battle every day for their children and sadly, many of their battles are with the State and this is wrong on so many levels. These families and their children should be receiving our full support, not broken promises of an elusive medical card. “Many of us had hoped that when the Dáil passed a Sinn Féin motion in July last year, and the Government made a budget commitment in October, that we would swiftly move to lift one of the greatest hurdles these families are facing- access to a medical cards- but this has not happened. “What sort of society or political system withholds medical cards from children with severe disabilities or life-threatening, and sometimes, terminal illnesses? What sort of political system tells the parents of a young child with disabilities and illnesses that the granting or continuation of a child’s medical card depends on the parents jumping through

bureaucratic hoops to prove they do not somehow earn too much? “Access to quality health care should be a right, not a concession to be granted or withheld by any Government, Minister, or civil servant. “We are now in 2017 and the promise of a hassle free medical card has still not been delivered. This is cruel and simply not good enough. Parents had realistic expectations after the Budget announcement, yet the Government have stalled and dragged this. “The Minister knows, from his own meeting with the advocacy group Our Children’s Health, that these parents are worn out and that the medical card process is torture in slow motion, with constant form filling, endless reviews, rejection, and appeals. Many of the parents affected are gravely concerned that they won’t get a positive medical card outcome until the middle of 2017. This is cruel, unacceptable and its vulnerable children that are the victims.”

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HSE’S U-TURN ON DENTAL SERVICES TO RESULT IN NO DENTAL SERVICES IN BOOT ROAD CLONDALKIN

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran has called on the HSE to review the Dental Services in Clondalkin as a matter of urgency in light of the HSE’s U-turn to not reopen the Boot Road Clinic. “To not reinstate the Dental Services at Boot Road, results in no Dental services for the foreseeable future in Clondalkin,” said Deputy Curran. “In a recent reply from the HSE to a Parliamentary Question I asked I have learnt that the HSE has no intention to reopen the Boot Road Dental Clinic in Clondalkin. The HSE are promising that a new primary care centre, to include dental services is planned for Clondalkin and the Boot Road Clinic is set for extensive renovation to bring it

to optimum standards and to provide such a centre. Schools that were previously assigned to Boot Road are being offered appointments in Crumlin and Rathcoole. This is not good enough and does not provide the people of Clondalkin with a local Dental Service. Dental services in the entire area of Clondalkin must be reviewed as Deansrath is without dental services also. I am calling on the HSE to seriously look into the area of Dublin West as its Dental Services in Ballyfermot, Rowlagh and Deansrath remain compromised while vacancies have not yet been filled. In November 2016 I was informed by the HSE that they fully intended to maintain Dental Services within

the Clondalkin area; however the HSE has now decided not to re-open the Boot Road Clinic. While we await appropriate staffing levels to be reinstated

in Rowlagh and Ballyfermot Dental Clinics, I am calling on the HSE to review Dental Services in the Clondalkin area, concluded Deputy Curran.

Fianna Fáil TD John Curran

LEADING RETAIL RECRUITMENT AGENCY ANNOUNCES CHARITY PARTNERSHIP WITH DRESS FOR SUCCESS DUBLIN

Top retail recruitment agency ”Teamworx” are delighted to announce their partnership with Dress for Success in 2017 to help women who want to join or rejoin the work force. Under the partnership, Teamworx will make a contribution to Dress for Success Dublin for every job placement made within the business. Teamworx will also be organising a number of Career Clinic workshops throughout the year, aimed at those who are unemployed and interested in working within the Retail Sector. These workshops will include career advice and top tips from Managing Director, Denise Brady who works as a Recruitment Partner with many of Irelands leading Retailers. Sonya Lennon founder of the Dress for Success, Dublin charity said: “We are beyond excited to be working with Teamworx on this campaign, they are a natural partner and a key supporter for Dress for Success, Dublin as we develop and grow”. Having worked in the Recruitment Business for

over 20 years, Denise Brady, Managing Director of Teamworx - Irelands leading Retail Recruitment Agency, is thrilled to be partnered with Dress for Success, Dublin in 2017. Denise says: “As our business continues to grow, now is the right time to work with a charity partner and give something back. Coaching and assisting women every day to secure a new career is what we do, and we felt there was a natural synergy between ourselves and Dress for Success, Dublin. Retail still remains Ireland’s largest private sector employer, and provides many opportunities for those interested in joining or returning to the work force”. Since Dress for Success Dublin was established by Sonya Lennon in 2011, the charity has supported over 1,300 women with the clothing, skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workplace. Further information is available at www. dressforsuccessdublin.org.

Sonya Lennon (Dress for Success Ireland) and Denise Brady (Teamworx)

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With Modern Kitchen inc Appliances, Walk-in Wardrobe & Option for Large Sitting & LCD TV

THIS MAKES THE BRAND NEW LAUNCH OF 3 BEDROOM HOMES AT KILHEALE MANOR, KILL VILLAGE, CO.KILDARE A VIEWING NECESSITY Cavan Developments invite you to the official launch of their New Three Bedroom Concrete Built Homes at Kilheale Manor, Hartwell Road in Kill Village this Saturday and Sunday from 2-5. Nestled away nicely between Rathcoole and Naas, it is located a 15-minute drive from the Red Cow roundabout and with the Luas line extending out as far as Citywest, it leaves another public transport artery available on route into the City Centre. A new large modern primary school has opened in Kill catering for both boys and girls and secondary schools are easily accessible with private bus operators servicing both Rathcoole & Naas schools also. These New Homes are designed with the modern purchaser in mind, with features such as stylish fitted kitchens with Breakfast Bar/Island unit and all appliances included. The option to choose a Larger Sitting

Room with large LCD TV depending on taste and Master Bedroom with En-Suite and Walk in Wardrobe leaves plenty to grab the attention. While the large rear gardens are a feature in themselves nowadays, the front gardens finish it off with cobblelock paving providing parking for up to 2 cars. There are also no management fees on this development which can come as a welcome relief to perspective purchasers in these current times. All houses are “A” rated with Photo Voltaic panels coming as standard reducing your overall energy bills considerably. Kitchen, Bathroom, EnSuite walls and floors all have extensive tiling with very high quality porcelain ceramic tiles coming as standard. High quality wardrobes and fireplaces also come as standard, with heated towel rail and large shower in En-Suite, while

The extremely well designed dressing room

Buyers have the option to choose a Larger Sitting Room with large LCD TV depending on taste the Bathroom comes fully fitted with toilets, wash hand basin and a corner bath to add the finishing touch. Cavan Developments homes are built with reducing maintenance on the exterior in mind and with PVC Fascia and soffit and the walls being brick and dry dashed,

this goes a long way to emphasising that point. Superior Sound Proofing is an integral part of Cavan Developments build and this is emphasised more than anywhere else on the party wall. Cavan Developments is an Award winning builder that have a tradition for quality and expertise and

are building new homes for over 35 years. Kill is a friendly, traditional, country village situated on the N7 and just fifteen minutes from the Red Cow and M50. Commuting to Dublin couldn’t be easier by car or bus. Prices of 3 bedroom Mid-

The Master Bedroom with En-Suite and Walk in Wardrobe leaves plenty to grab the attention.

Townhouse €290,000. Three bedroom EndTownhouse €310,000 To register your interest, e-mail sales@ cavandev.ie MMWard Auctioneers 045 856640 www. cavandevelopments. com Cavan Developments 045 878108.

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PURE RESULTS ONE DAY DETOX EVENT - MARCH 4TH

TV presenter Kathryn Thomas Pure Results, Ireland’s premium all-inclusive residential boot-camp retreat founded by TV presenter Kathryn Thomas is hosting its first fitness and wellbeing event on March 4th in The Radisson St Helen’s Co Dublin. This “One Day Detox” event will give you a taste of what the Pure Results program and all-inclusive bootcamp retreats are all about. You will enjoy a mix of fitness classes such as yoga, circuit training, boxercise, abs and ass and a range of well-being and nutrition workshops to ensure you go home with all the tips and insights on detoxing, clean eating and staying fit and healthy to keep you on track for 2017! Kicking off with a welcome breakfast, a meet and greet with Kathryn and Pure Results team and a first time morning disco, this event promises to be the perfect antidote to all the current negativity where you get to focus solely on you and your well-being! In addition to all the fitness, nutrition and feel good activities, everyone will take home a fabulous goody bag full of health and beauty gifts! About Pure Results... The all inclusive residential retreats are fast becoming the most sought after fitness, detox and weight loss getaways in Ireland. The Pure Results bootcamp retreats offers both 7 and 4 day packages where clients get to focus on three pillars of health - fitness, nutrition and wellbeing. The program is made up

of a range of high and low intensity exercise classes such as; kettlebells, abs and ass, yoga and body balance, as-well as an excellent 2 week aftercare plan to ensure you leave feeling and looking your best. The Pure Results meal plan is custom designed to keep you sustained, with the perfect balance of micro and macro nutrients, while you work out. Free from wheat, dairy, sugar and caffeine, it is the perfect detox for the body too, aiding you with your weight loss goals. In addition to training and exercise classes, you can avail of 1 to 1 consultations with our on site nutritionist. There are also wellness seminars as well as on site massage and physiotherapy available to get you back to your best, both physically and mentally Offering two location options on Ireland’s fabulous Wild Atlantic Way, Parknasilla Spa and Resort in Co Kerry and Mount Falcon Estate in Co Mayo, Pure Results offers a truly immersive experience and is the ideal fitness and wellness getaway to recharge, detox, unplug and focus on your weight loss and wellbeing goals. Book now Join Kathryn and meet the Pure Results team for this unmissable event of fun, food and fitness on March 4th. Come and meet like minded people, fitness and wellbeing enthusiasts and invest in you! For more information and to book your tickets please log on to pureresultsbootcamp.com

STUDENT DECODERS FROM TALLAGHT COMMUNITY SCHOOL AMONG 4,000 STUDENTS AIMING TO UNLOCK PUZZLES IN UNFAMILIAR LANGUAGES.

Talented problem solvers from Tallaght Community School tested their minds against the world’s toughest puzzles in logic, language and linguistics during the qualifying round of the ADAPT All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad recently. Run by the ADAPT Centre and supported by Science Foundation Ireland, the contest challenges secondary school students to apply logic and reasoning skills to solve complex puzzles in unfamiliar languages. It is a key element of the nationwide ProblemSolving Initiative (http:// problemsolving.ie/). Students from Coláiste Cois Life were among a record 4,000 students who competed in the qualifying round of the competition at their school. The Lucan sleuths will be hoping to secure a spot as one the top 100 decoders to qualify for the national final of the Olympiad, which will be hosted by Dublin Institute of Technology on 24th March 2017. The winners there

will win the opportunity to represent Ireland at the International Linguistics Olympiad at Dublin City University in July 2017. The All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad (AILO) challenges students to engage in ‘code-breaking’ to unlock information in unfamiliar languages, such as deciphering ancient Oriental scripts, decoding Armenian railway maps, or translating genealogical terms in Hawaiian. Previous knowledge of foreign languages or linguistics is not required, as the key

requirements are logic, patience and reasoning skills. AILO helps students to develop a powerful blend of problem-solving expertise and language competency, which are vital skills in today’s global economy. The contest also aims to inspire students to pursue the exciting range of careers combining computing, linguistics and languages. AILO is run by ADAPT, a €110 million academiaindustry research centre that is revolutionising how digital content is adapted,

personalised and delivered for the needs of global users. ADAPT brings together more than 150 researchers at Trinity College Dublin, Dublin City University, University College Dublin, and Dublin Institute of Technology as well as industry leaders in global digital content. The results of the qualifying round of the All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad will be released within the next fortnight. Sample puzzles from Olympiad can be downloaded at www. adaptcentre.ie/ailo

Problem solvers from Tallaght Community School

DUBLIN MAN’S UPLIFTING TRAINSPOTTING TRIBUTE ON MENTAL HEALTH GOES VIRAL Video Link: www.facebook.com/keith.kelly.10236/posts/1743951272585964

Mental health issues are something close to Dublin man Keith Kelly’s heart and with the release of Trainspotting 2 he saw an opportunity to reach people by making a video that plays on the original Trainspotting film. Keith, who is from Ballybrack and a volunteer with Suicide or Survive, has struggled with his mental health over the years. He created the short video based on Trainspotting character Renton’s famous ‘choose life’ speech. So far Kelly’s video has been a huge hit, clocking almost 10,000 views on his Facebook page in less than 24 hours. “I’ve been blown away by the response” explains Keith. “I just did it as a way of trying to reach and help people and now I’m getting thank you messages from all the over the world. It just goes to show you the power of sharing and the appetite that is out there right now for some positivity.” says Keith. “I’ve struggled a lot over the years for different reasons and I’ve seen a lot of suffering, including too many suicides in my

community. I’m a huge fan of Trainspotting and with the new film coming out I saw an opportunity to do something creative to help spread a positive message. The original Trainspotting ‘choose life’ message was a powerful one so I suppose it’s a play on that. I’m a massive sports fan and a music fan and I really want to reach young lads, and lads that are struggling. There’s still a lot of cultural stuff going on with lads, not talking and not going for help when we need it and we need to change that, man up, and take some responsibility. I know it can be same for women too. Over the years through all the unhappiness and sadness I’ve experienced I’ve learnt that you can’t bury your head in the sand, or else things will just get worse. The importance of talking openly can’t be underestimated. For me this has opened up a whole new world for me, including new friends and community through my volunteering with the Suicide or Survive charity. I’d just love to see everyone being themselves, not necessarily following

the norms, living the lives they want to live and being comfortable with themselves.” If you need help or support please talk to a friend,

family member, GP or therapist or call Samaritans free phone number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 116 123

Ewan McGregor as Renton in Trainspotting

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ANNUAL WAREHOUSE

SALE 2 DOORS DOWN FROM OUR MAIN SHOWROOM

OPENING HOURS:

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9.30AM - 6.00PM SATURDAY 9.30 - 6.00PM SUNDAY 1.00PM - 6.00PM

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MINISTER SHOWING LACK OF URGENCY TO DEAL WITH QUAD AND SCRAMBLER BIKE PROBLEM

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran is calling on Minister Ross to urgently arrange his promised meeting with Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald before another serious accident occurs on our streets with the use of Quad Bikes and Scramblers.

Deputy Curran was speaking after receiving yet another parliamentary reply from

Minister Ross promising that he would arrange a meeting with Minister Frances Fitzgerald to discuss this issue and to see if there are any legislative amendments or other actions which could be taken to specifically deal with the issues raised. “Quad Bikes and Scramblers are causing havoc in local communities across Dublin. Many very young unlicensed and uninsured

persons are driving these quads and scrambler bikes in housing estates and public parks. This action is posing a serious risk to the health and safety of the general public alongside destroying public parks and creating no-go zones in community and public spaces. I submitted a parliamentary question in early December 2016 about this issue to

Minister Ross where he then committed to meet with the Justice Minister on the topic. Two months on and in a recent reply to the same question, the Minister again promises to a meeting with the Minister for Justice. “I cannot understand the delay Minister Ross is having in meeting with the Justice Minister. Another young person could lose their life if this situation continues to carry on,” concluded Deputy Curran.

The Legal Column

Romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of ROMAINE SCALLY AND COMPANY SOLICITORS, Main Street , Tallaght, Dublin 24.

TEL 01 4599 506

In this edition of the paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors answers more readers’ queries. This week they involve queries in relation to Wills. As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Telephone 4599506, Email – legal@scally.ie. Q. My older brother died late last year without making a Will. I am his only surviving sibling. I understand that I am the person who is next entitled to apply to take out a Grant of Administration. I am a bit apprehensive about taking on this responsibility. Can you offer any guidelines? A. Firstly, we are sorry to hear about your brother. It must be quite a blow to see your last sibling pass on. In any event, I assume that various enquiries have been made to see if your brother did make a Will. Assuming that these enquiries have now resulted in finding any Will then, your brother’s estate will have to be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. You are right to be cautious about taking on the role of administrator. It places a considerable onus on you and indeed anybody taking on that role. Ultimately, the responsibility is to call in the assets of the deceased person, maintain their value during the administration process and ultimately, distribute the Estate according to the strict rules of intestacy. In addition, all funeral and testamentary expenses must be paid. Any financial institution where your brother had an account, will readily release money to pay the funeral bill on production of an Invoice. You will not need to wait to obtain the Grant of Administration to do this. Although this is of course a big responsibility, nonetheless, it is also something you might like to do in order to properly wind up the affairs of your late brother. There is also a sense of satisfaction in ensuring that his assets are properly distributed. In some ways, your brother made a choice not to

FAX 01 4599 510

make a Will and he was perfectly free to do so. He may always have considered that you would take on the role if called upon to do so. Obviously, it is not ideal but equally, it is not uncommon. With regard to any legal exposure, you are only liable up to the value of your brother’s Estate. There is no crossover to any of your own assets. The distribution process may be straightforward enough if your brother was survived by you and possibly the children of other siblings. In that situation, his Estate is divided equally between his surviving siblings (you) and the deceased siblings share is divided equally between their child or children and if more than one in equal shares. I am assuming that your parents are deceased. In cases where there is an absent sibling, it is extremely important that they are traced. This is where problems can arise if perhaps a sibling emigrated many years ago and never kept in touch with the family. However, there are professional organisations now who will carry out searches and in most cases, they have been successful in their search. In short, the job asked of you is certainly a responsibility but equally perhaps an honour to assist in bringing the affairs of your late brother during his lifetime to a conclusion. In circumstances where there is no Will, it is often preferable to use a Solicitor for the application as it keeps you at arm’s length and can certainly avoid numerous requests for updates from the various beneficiaries. It would certainly be worth having a consultation with a Solicitor with a view to discussing your next step. Q. My brother and I are the Executors in my late mother’s Estate. There are five of us in the family, four of us have always been in contact. One brother left for Australia as a young man and, after a few years, he ceased all contact. That is over twenty years ago now. There was not a great deal in the Estate but we are now ready to distribute it. Are we safe to distribute it without reference to our brother? We do not even know if he is still alive or if he ever married. A. You do not say whether or not your mother died with or without a Will. Either way, assuming that your brother in Australia was included in the Will, he would certainly be included in an Intestacy (no Will). In the circumstances, he is as entitled to his share of your late mother’s Estate as if he had always been living back home. The fact of his absence is no bar

email: legal@scally.ie

to an inheritance. It would be considered potentially negligent on the part of the Executors of your mother’s Estate to distribute the assets without reference to your brother. The responsibility of all Executors is an onerous one and requires absolute honesty in dealing with the affairs of the deceased family member. This means that all efforts must be made to trace your brother in Australia. There are professional organisations to help with this if preliminary enquiries do not reveal any information. His share of the Estate can be used to fund the fee of the professional organisations. However, it is worth making preliminary enquiries first of all and reading back through any old correspondence of your brother to see where he last lived. A simple notification in the local paper may prove very worthwhile. There may be Irish organisations within the town where your brother resided who would be more than happy to help. In short therefore, although you can distribute the balance of the Estate for the remaining siblings, you cannot under any circumstances make a decision to put your brother’s share back into the pot for distribution among the remaining four. Remember, even if he is now deceased, he may have children who would be equally entitled to inherit their parent’s share. Indeed, if this were to be the case, in years to come they may come looking for their Irish relatives and it would be extremely uncomfortable to have to explain an error which took place at the time of distributing your parent’s Estate. In short therefore, efforts should now be focused on trying to find your brother in Australia. We wish you the best of luck in this regard. Q. My mother passed away last Summer and in her Will, apart from leaving everything equally between her children, she made certain specific bequests. She left me her engagement ring. However, with her Will was a letter of wishes and in this letter, she said that she would like her engagement ring to go to my younger sister. The Grant of Probate has not yet issued. I am wondering what the right thing to do is here? We have not fallen out about it but there is naturally a bit of confusion. Perhaps you can help. A. It has to be said that the directions in a Will take precedence over a letter of wishes. A letter of wishes is usually done to deal with items not listed in the Will. You do not say if there is a date on the letter of wishes. It may well

be that your mother changed her mind about the engagement ring when she came to actually sign her Will. She may have forgotten to take out any reference to the engagement ring in her letter of wishes. Either way, the fact is that the Will is a legal document which is legally binding and as such, is a document which will take legal precedence over the letter of wishes. In short therefore, the engagement ring should go to you. However, as this is a family situation and both of you appear to be taking a pragmatic view of this, it would obviously be best if it was decided amicably between the two of you. Perhaps there may be some other ring which could be given to your sister as an alternative. The answer to your question however is that you are legally entitled to the ring and after that it is a matter for you and your sister to decide what you wish to do. Q. My father is elderly now and I have encouraged him to make a Will. He is reluctant to do so. In fact, he will not discuss the subject with me. I feel I should put pressure on him to make a Will but wonder if there is anything more I could say to him. A. It may well be the case that your father has already made a Will and simply does not want to discuss it with you or any of his children. Making a Will is a private matter and though always advisable, it is not legally required. There may be many reasons why your father is either reluctant to discuss it with you, or indeed has made a conscious decision not to make a Will. Some people, particularly older people, can be fearful of making Wills and it is their choice not to do so if they so wish. Some people also take the view when they have children that “everything will go to the children anyway”. It is obviously not the best way to leave things but, people are entitled to make personal choices and we cannot interfere with that. However, you have at least brought the subject up with your father and he knows your views. He is probably well aware that the making of a Will is worthwhile and important. That is as much as you can say to him and after that it is his decision whether or not he has decided to listen to your advice and allow you to bring him to a Solicitor or indeed has already taken your advice and prepared a Will privately elsewhere. I think the best thing to do is simply to respect his wishes now that you have made your views clear and allow him to get on with his life. I hope that this has been helpful.

In contentious business a Solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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LUCAN STUDENT RECEIVES PRIZE IN SIGHTSAVERS JUNIOR PAINTER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

3DENTAL EXPANSION LAUNCH Dublin surgery doubles in size & creates 25 new jobs

A Lucan Student is to be recognised amongst the best young artists in Ireland for their entries in the Sightsavers Junior Painter of the Year Awards. Their winning paintings were inspired by this year’s competition theme, ‘Framing The Future’. The Sightsavers Junior Painter of the Year Awards is designed to inspire Irish children to express their artistic talent through painting whilst developing an appreciation of the importance and value of their sight. Sightsavers Junior Painter of the Year Awards Coordinator, Teresa Murray, will visit the school to congratulate and award the child with a certificate for winning the regional prize from the judges. The children’s painting will be displayed at the award ceremony in Dublin at the end of February where the overall national winners will be announced. Pictured is Emilia Anatjeva (8) from St. Thomas’ Junior National School, Esker, Lucan was awarded a Special Commendation for her painting A Day at the Circus, with her teacher Alison Walshe

Invited guests, dignitaries & friends attended a special launch to help 3Dental staff celebrate a major expansion at its Naas Road base on Thursday evening. The cost-effective dental clinic has gone from strength to strength since opening its doors in April 2016 & the expansion is a direct result of the phenomenal demand for the professional dentistry service 3Dental provides. Mayor of South Dublin County, Guss O’Connell, attended the reception & praised 3Dental owners, Dr Niall Vallely, Dr Paul O’Connell and Dr Peter Doherty, for what they have achieved in such a short amount of time. Mayor O’Connell said: “It is wonderful to have such a modern and affordable service in the heart of the community. I congratulate the vision and entrepreneurship that has brought about such a marvellous transformation. Best wishes for the future.” Dentists Niall, Paul and Peter have been thrilled by the response to the new high-tech facility so far and are delighted to create more local employment

opportunities in the coming months. Niall said: “Our staff number over 35 now – with two new recruits this week alone – and we want to thank all of them. The role that each one of these people played to create 3Dental cannot be exaggerated. They make our clinic what it is!” Paul added: “Our clients and the people in the community have been so kind to us, offering unrivalled support for 3Dental from day one – something which we will never forget. We are

delighted to be a part of the vibrant & active community in South Dublin County.” Although the paint is still drying on the brand-new expansion Niall, Paul and Peter are already thinking ahead to the future of 3Dental. Peter explained: “The next step in our evolution involves providing digital dentistry for our patients. Anyone who has had a mould of their mouth taken will tell you that it is not the most pleasant experience, and we aim to eliminate this

through the use of CAD-CAM technology. This allows us to take photographs of teeth and then send those images to our dental laboratory to create crowns and bridges on site. The day is coming where we will be able to provide crowns and bridges in just one day!” There are also plans in place to open a second clinic in Limerick in the coming months while the Dublin clinic continues to thrive. For more information visit www.3dental.ie.

Pictured at the launch of launch the 3Dental expansion are Dr Paul O’Connell, Dr Niall Vallely, and Dr Peter Doherty with the Mayor of South Dublin County Guss O’Connell

THE SOLUTION TO TRAVELLING ABROAD FOR DENTAL WORK

✦ CROWNS ✦ from €400 ✦ IMPLANTS ✦ from €1400 ✦ SIX MONTH BRACES ✦ from €1400 FREEPHONE 1800 910 333 EMAIL hello@3dental.ie WEB www.3dental.ie

EXPERIENCED DENTISTS Niall Vallely, Peter Doherty and Paul O’Connell

RED COW HOUSE, NAAS ROAD, DUBLIN 22

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 8.00am – 8.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 2.00pm

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GAMBLING LEGISLATION REMAINS STALLED FOUR YEARS ON

Fianna Fáil TD Jack Chambers has said new legislation is crucial to replace the existing antiquated rules covering gambling, betting and gaming in Ireland.

In the latest publication of the Government’s legislative agenda, the Gambling Control Bill has been removed as a priority and it now appears that the matter has been kicked to touch. The Deputy has raised his concerns regarding the legislation directly with the Tánaiste, Minister Francis Fitzgerald. Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Chambers said, “Almost four years after it was first published and there has still been no action on this important bill to ensure all operators in the gambling sector have clear legislative guidelines within which to operate. “When questioned, the Government’s repeated response is that it will engage in public consultation.

We need more than that to safeguard our younger generation from developing a dependency on gambling. “The existing laws in practice are over 50 years old and are in need of amendment to recognise advancements in technology, the popularity of mobile-based gambling and the effect that the rise of the internet has had on habits. A new agency needs to be introduced that would act both as the licensing authority and regulator for the broad sector. “There are significant dangers posed by the ongoing delays in introducing legislation to deal with the invisible addiction of gambling, which affects thousands nationwide. The latest trends indicate an increase in younger people being lured into this industry and according to the Institute of Public Health in Ireland; adolescent gambling is thought to be 2-3 times the rate of adults.

THE STROKE SUPPORT GROUP is for people who have had a stroke, their family and carers. It provides information about Stroke. There are different speakers and topics every month. There is also time for tea & coffee and a chat with others. VENUE: County Library Tallaght Dublin 24. The Library is located across from the Square Shopping Centre and at the terminus of the Luas Red Line. The group is on in the conference room on the ground floor which is accessible by a ramp or lift.

THE GROUP IS ON THE THIRD TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH:

21ST MARCH 2017 Memory and driving after stroke 18TH APRIL 2017 Setting goals after a stroke Time: 11am – 12.30pm WHO SHOULD ATTEND? The group is FREE and meets once a month. Unfortunately NO transport can be provided. If you require further information please contact: Miriam Mullaney Physiotherapist HSE at 087 6596901 or Nicola Cogan/ Suzanne Greene, Stroke Nurses Tallaght Hospital at 01-4143219.

“There is a huge human cost at stake for many individuals and their families and we must do more to protect them. We cannot continue to leave it to the good work of organisations such as

Gamble Aware and Problem Gambling to guard against problem gambling.

“While there is a need for continued research and intensive engagement with

all relevant stakeholders, there are aspects of the bill that could be amended immediately under separate legislative measures, including changes to marketing, advertising

and age limits. A more comprehensive Bill on gambling must be taken out of limbo and enacted as a priority to effectively address this rising problem,” concluded Deputy Chambers.

SINN FÉIN LUCAN VILLAGE CONSTITUENCY OFFICE LAUNCHED

Sinn Féin Vice President Mary Lou McDonald TD this afternoon officially opened the constituency office of Eoin Ó Broin TD. The office, located at Office 4, 1st Floor, Griffeen View, The Square, Main Street, Lucan, is now open five days a week and appointments can be made by calling 01-6218653.

Speaking at the opening Deputy McDonald said: “Sinn Féin constituency offices are at the heart of our political work. This is how we engage with local communities and work on the issues of greatest concern to them. “Sinn Féin in Dublin MidWest has gone from strength to strength in recent years. We now have three Councillors, a TD and an MEP in the constituency and there is plenty more growth in the years ahead. “The fact that Deputy Ó

Broin’s office is here in the heart of Lucan Village, a part of our city that some years ago would have been considered a weak area for Sinn Féin tells its own story. Deputy Ó Broin said: “The Sinn Féin team in Dublin Mid-West provides a first class constituency

service. Covering Lucan, Palmerstown, Newcastle, Rathcoole, Saggart, Brittas and Clondalkin. We have a great team of Councillors, constituency staff and volunteers working 24/7 for the local community. “The opening of our new office in the heart of Lucan

is a sign of our commitment to the area and our desire to serve all sections of the constituency. “We are open 5 days a week for individuals, residents associations, businesses and community groups and provide the full range of constituency services.”

The Sinn Féin Dublin Mid West team at the launch of Lucan office: Cllr Danny O’Brien, Cllr Jonathan Graham, Eoin Ó Broin TD, Mary Lou McDonald TD, Cllr Mark Ward & Lynn Boylan TD.

JOURNEY INTO FREEDOM Hosting Journey Into Freedom on three separate occasions has been a feature of St Martin de Porres during the last 12 months. Here is a series of 6 presentations on very basic Christian themes, which helped people come to a deeper confidence in themselves and in God’s goodness and in his love for them. Each presentation includes, at its centre, a different speaker telling an engaging story of how s/he overcame difficulties through God’s personal love, and what faith now means to them in everyday life. It also includes a reflection on a piece of scripture, with plenty time for question and answer. It all took place in an informal setting, with at times a cup of tea and light refreshments in hand. Journey Into Freedom seems to carry particular

significance for those who had questions about the meaning of God and for whom the Church had become distant or even lost its relevance.

and support of others on the same journey of faith, sometimes struggling; freedom from trying to be good enough to earn God’s love and blessings.

Each night addresses a specific question • Where can I find meaning for my life? • Who is Jesus? • What do I really believe? • How can I share words of hope with people I love? • Does baptism enrich me? • Where can I find some faith support?

Freedom from all that weighs us down and holds us back, and coming into a deeper, truer, personal relationship with God as He leads us along the way, revealing Himself to us as the perfect father who loves us unconditionally.

Here are some comments people made after their participation in the series of presentations: Journey into Freedom was for us a wonderful experience. It became simply that; freedom from the sameness of going it alone, missing out on the companionship

It was a wonderful reawakening of my faith. I’d never seen anything like it. Fantastic. It meant inner peace within myself, and meeting new people. I went out of curiosity and ended up enjoying other people’s stories about God. It was like a new beginning. I felt much more part of the parish community.

The success of these presentations seems to be due to the warm welcome people receive; flexibility of each presentation; informality; and the help people receive in finding new meaning and purpose.

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150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FENIAN RISING AND THE BATTLE OF TALLAGHT, WHICH OCCURS ON 5TH MARCH 2017. South Dublin County Council Libraries is delighted to present events in commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Fenian Rising and the Battle of Tallaght, which occurs on 5th March 2017. As part of the Dublin Fenian uprising in March 1867, several thousand members of the Irish Republican Brotherhood made their way to gather on Tallaght Hill, ready for rebellion. Their tactic was to draw the military out of Dublin while a separate rising took place in the city. A small contingent engaged in

battle at the police station in Tallaght village. The RIC Sub-Inspector at Tallaght was watching the exodus of men from the city, and sent 14 armed officers out to the crossroads of the Main Road and Greenhills Road, where a battle with about 40 Fenians ensued. The ‘Battle of Tallaght’ was really just a skirmish in the village, but Tallaght was to be the site of the main battle of the Fenian uprising. However, the city centre was heavily fortified and the expected rising there didn’t happen. The large gathering of up to eight thousand men

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on Tallaght Hill was left leaderless, and eventually dispersed. The hoped for rising petered out. · Local historian Seán Bagnall will give a lecture on ‘The Battle of Tallaght’ on Thursday 2nd March at 7:00 pm at the County Library, Tallaght. All welcome, book your place at talib. eventbrite.ie. · An exhibition on the Battle of Tallaght can be viewed at the County Library, Tallaght from 2nd

Tallaght RIC Barracks, site of the Battle of Tallaght March to 31st March during library opening hours. · 5th and 6th class students from local Tallaght schools will be invited

to visit the library for a presentation and a tour of the exhibition. For

further

information,

please contact Síle Coleman or Michael Keyes at the County Library, Tallaght on 01 4620073 or localstudies@ sdublincoco.ie

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ARGOS TEAM DRESS UP AND RAISE FUNDS FOR IRISH CANCER SOCIETY

Colleagues and customers at Argos stores across Dublin are celebrating after their Dressup/Colours Event in store raised a fantastic €3,500 for their charity partner Irish Cancer Society. The money raised will fund Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Centres in 13 hospitals around the country. Pamela Reville, Store Manager at Argos in Tallaght said: “To coincide with the launch of our new 2017 Spring Summer range/catalogue, we decided to organise a fundraising event for our charity partner Irish Cancer Society. It was a fantastic day and the team really enjoyed taking part and dressing up. The turnout from the local community on the day was brilliant, and it’s fantastic to know we have been able to make a difference for such a great cause.”

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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. A.McC.

As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the last few years. We would like to thank all readers who have supported our chosen charities to date and while we will still be supporting Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice going forward, we are delighted to support The Irish Pilgrimage Trust. We are appealing to you our loyal newspaper readers to show your

generosity in helping us to support an equally worthy charity, The Irish Pilgrimage Trust. The Trust has over 1100 people travelling at Easter time and it is divided into small groups of approx 10 young people and 12 volunteer carers who stay in one of the many Hotels in Lourdes. In June we bring a group of 110 people to Hosanna House in Lourdes for what is a unique experience both Carer and Guest. We have two facilities in Kilcuan, Co. Galway and Cois Cuain, Co. Wexford each offering different opportunities. Both facilities provide Friendship weeks during the Summer. Application forms are available from our Office at 091 796622. For more information on the Irish Pilgrimage Trust please contact us at 091 796622 or Email info@ irishpilgrimagetrust. com or visit our web page on http://www. irishpilgrimagetrust.com for more information.. If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque made payable to The Irish Pilgrimage Trust and send it, along with your Novena to: Newsgroup, Unit 3, Floor 2, St. Dominic’s Shopping Centre, St Dominic’s Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 If you require any further information call us on 087 6535443.

CLASSIC RESORTS LAUNCHES 2017 PLATINUM BROCHURE AS LONG-HAUL FROM IRELAND CONTINUES TO GROW With demand for longhaul holidays continuing to grow, Classic Resorts has just launched its 2017 Platinum Collection brochure, with tantalising offers for honeymooners, those planning a wedding or anniversary celebration abroad, or those simply seeking a well-earned break in an exotic destination. The knowledgeable team at Classic Resorts have handpicked exquisite 5 star hotels and resorts in a selection of countries where you can experience everything from sun, sea, sand and spa treatments to water sports, safaris, golfing and sailing, from an adventurous African Safari to a tropical getaway in Saint Lucia and anywhere in-between. Included in the new brochure are the Caribbean Islands & Mexico, Indian Ocean, Africa and Asia. Mexico has become highly popular for holidays, with Cancun and Riviera Maya among the most frequented areas. The 5* Viceroy Riviera Maya, offering 41 stand alone luxury villas on a 7 mile stretch of white sandy beach on the Riviera Maya, is available from €2435pp staying 7 nights BB in a luxury villa with butler service, including flights. St Lucia has been a

favourite destination for honeymooners for many years, and the 5* Sugar Beach Viceroy Resort offers guests a choice of rooms, villas, cottages or beachfront bungalows nestled within 100 acres of lush rainforest. Stay 7 nights on a BB basis including flights, taxes and private transfers from €2325pp. Antigua is the island with a beach for every day of the year, and the 5* Carlisle Bay offers a sophisticated contemporary luxury resort overlooking a white sandy beach with turquoise waters.7 nights BB in an ocean facing suite start from €3365pp including flights, taxes and private transfers. The Maldives, with over 1,100 islands forming 26 major atolls, lie on the equator in the Indian Ocean. Classic Resorts has selected the 5* Per Aquum Niyama and 5* Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi, both resorts offering a free half board upgrade option for stays between 9th January to 30th September, with prices from €3429 including 7 nights BB, flights, taxes and seaplane transfers. The beautiful tropical island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean boasts white sandy beaches, tropical sunshine all year round and a relaxing

atmosphere. Among the luxurious resorts on offer with Classic Resorts is the 5* Shangri La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa from €1789pp including flights, taxes and private transfers. New to the 2017 programme is the Tahitian island of Bora Bora, the “Pearl of the Pacific”. Classic Resorts has a 12-night honeymoon package taking in 2 nights at the 4* Le Meridien Tahiti, 5 nights on Bora Bora at the 5* St Regis Bora Bora and 5 nights on the private island of Raiatea atoll, at the 5* Tahaa Island Resort & Spa. This package includes flights, transfers and domestic flights from €9,999pp including daily breakfast, 5 activities and a romantic dinner. Classic Resorts is the awardwinning long-haul division of Cassidy Travel, offering tailor-made holidays to the Indian Ocean, Caribbean & Mexico, Far East, Africa and Arabian Gulf. Its dedicated staff have travelled to the destinations it serves and can offer first hand advice on any chosen destination. Contact Classic Resorts in store at 24/25 Lower Liffey Street, Dublin 1, call 0818 332 515, or visit online at www.classicresorts.ie. All prices subject to change.

Antigua is the island with a beach for every day of the year

The Maldives lies on the equator in the Indian Ocean

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The Story of Your Stuff www.thestoryofyourstuff.ie The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has teamed up with young photographer and music video director, Christian Tierney to launch an exciting new competition for secondary schools today themed The Story of Your Stuff. Students are invited to choose an everyday object such as a pen, mobile phone or a water bottle and use a visual medium to illustrate its lifecycle, where it came from, how you use it and more importantly, where it’s going to end up! The competition is open to secondary school students up to and including 18 years. The prize is: €500 for the winning entry and €500 plus a video workshop with Christian Tierney for the school. All information about the competition can be found on http://www. thestoryofyourstuff.ie/. Here students can view a “Story of your stuff” video created by Christian Tierney and top tips from him on how to get started. “We want students to unleash their creativity to tell us the story of their stuff. Perhaps your pencil started its story as a tree in another continent … maybe

your plastic water bottle was created from oil originating as far away as the Middle East… or your phone contains metal originating from the likes of Asia, South America and Africa. By becoming more aware of the story of their stuff, students begin to understand why sustainable consumption behaviours, including recycling and using recyclable materials on a daily basis are so important” said the EPA’s Helen Bruen. “Visual mediums such as Snapchat and Instagram are the language of today’s students, so what better way to have fun with this project than for students to use the

tools they know best.” The EPA’s web resource www.epa.ie/ irelandsenvironment/ provides the best source of information for students to research their entry. The website also includes a section for teachers with a lesson plan outlining the educational as well as fun elements of this campaign. Entering the competition couldn’t be easier. Simply fill out the short application form via www. thestoryofyourstuff.ie, upload your entry and click send before the 30th March 2017.

Sarah Foley and Lee Bramble, 1st year students from Lucan Community College, pictured at the launch of the Environmental Protection Agency - The Story of Your Stuff. (Pic. Robbie Reynolds)

8% OF IRISH HOMEOWNERS WILLING TO TACKLE BURGLARS HEAD ON 7.83% of the almost 7,000 respondents to an AA Home Insurance survey stated that in the event of a hypothetical burglary their first action would be to attempt to subdue the intruder until Gardaí arrived at the property. However, a significant gender gap was recorded in the findings as just 1.91% of women surveyed would be willing to get physically involved, compared to 13.28% of men. “When it comes to protecting your home and family the urge to confront an intruder is a very understandable human response.” Says Director of Consumer Affairs Conor Faughnan. “People get justifiably angry and scared. But it’s a bad idea. You can’t know the mental state of an intruder who might even be armed. Garda advice is that you should secure yourself as best you can and call for help.” In addition to the gender split, younger homeowners were slightly more likely than their older counterparts to tackle the intruder in the event of a burglary. While

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37.63% of those surveyed stated that their first course of action would be to find a safe room in the house before making contact with the Gardaí. Meanwhile, a further 32.20% stated they would yell or make noise

in an attempt to scare the intruder out of their home before alerting the Gardaí. “Material goods and possessions don’t mean anything, they can be replaced.” Faughnan said. “People are beyond price. The first and only priority is the safety of you and your family. Let the Garda deal with the criminals.” A further 16.93% of respondents stated that they would confront the intruder in a non-physical capacity and order them to leave the property before contacting Gardaí.

Almost 4 in 10 homeowners would hide and make contact with the Gardaí in the event of a burglary

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9.19% of those under 45 stated they would attempt to physically restrain the intruder, this figure fell to 5.93% among those over 56. Meanwhile, over a third of respondents stated they would hide and contact Gardaí instead of becoming physically involved.

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Entertainment Guide

With

by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly email: lynda@newsgroup.ie

Covering ● Tallaght ● Clondalkin ● Lucan ● Rathcoole ● Saggart ● Newcastle TOP FIVE FILMS – JUSTICE Courtroom dramas make for compelling viewing and when they are well made they are always smash hits. The best legal films of our time have everything from harsh judgements to false imprisonment and heartwrenching verdicts – making them some of the biggest movies of all time. Movies that focus on bringing justice, legal battles and lawyers set out to make us think about society and how we treat different members of the world we live in. So, sit back and prepare to be entertained with our Top Five Films – Justice… 1. A Time To Kill – Based on John Grisham’s 1996 novel this is one of the best courtroom dramas ever made. A fantastic cast includes Sandra Bullock, Matthew McConaughey and

Kiefer Sutherland. Set in Mississippi this emotive movie will make you question the whole justice system as well as the things we stand for in society. A brilliant film. 2. Philadelphia – A law firm employee with HIV is fired from his job and hires a small-time lawyer to represent him in a wrongful dismissal suit. Working with Andrew on the case changes the once homophobic lawyer’s attitude and he becomes determined to do right by the man before the disease takes him over. Tom Hanks deservedly won an Oscar for his portrayal of Andrew. 3. The Accused – The harrowing story of a young girl from the wrong side of town who is attacked by an

aggressive group of men at her local bar. An exceptional performance from Jodie Foster earned her an Oscar for the role of Sarah Tobias. Her attacks fling accusations her way and try to discredit the victim but her case is taken on by a female lawyer who believes in fighting for the justice that Sarah deserves. 4. Erin Brockovich – This movie produced another Oscar-winning performance this time from Julia Roberts who plays an unemployed single mother who stumbles upon a corporate cover up and investigates why what is supposed to be a clean water supply is making people sick. Compelled to get to the bottom of the issue she pursues the case in her own time. Based on a true story these events will shake you to your core. 5. Courage Under Fire – Although not based in a courtroom this movie is all about justice for a rescue pilot who crashed during Desert Storm. Her worthiness for the Medal of Honour is investigated by another Lt Colonel who is struggling with his own demons. Determined to get to the bottom of some questionable testimony, he digs deeper into the mission that got her killed. Compelling, emotive and gritty performances make these films truly remarkable, whether based in reality or born out of pure entertainment. They will make you think, feel and see things in a whole different light so grab the popcorn and turn up the volume before you check out our Top Five Films – Justice.

A scene from A Time To Kill

THE RIPTIDE MOVEMENT AT THE OLYMPIA Hot on the heels of their impressive new album, Ghosts, talented four-piece outfit The Riptide Movement will take to the stage at The Olympia Theatre next month. The Lucan friends, Malachy Tuohy, JPR Dalton, Gerald McGarry and Gar Byrne have been playing music together for more than 10 years,

developing an accomplished and polished sound as well as much-talked about live shows across the country. Ghosts, which was released late last year, is the first American-recorded release from the band and is very well put-together under the guidance of Grammy award winning producer, Ted Hutt. The Riptide Movement

are currently touring the album and will play shows in London and Limerick next month as well as the gig at the Olympia on March 17th. Malachy said: “Playing live is everything to us, no matter what the gig, venue or audience we’re playing to – we give it our all, we play like it’s the last time we’ll ever play. The buzz from

playing live is better than any drug, it’s what keeps us going.” The band were signed to Universal after they recorded their third album, Getting Through, independently and played shows in New York and LA. The new album means a lot to the Lucan lads and they spent their time recording

in Texas honing the different aspects of Ghosts. Malachy said: “We all sat down together during that initial stage of preproduction and discussed what we wanted to say through the music and through the songs. Some of the themes were dark but they were real and something we felt everyone

could really relate to and understand. I guess the catalyst for this was Elephant In The Room.” Tickets for The Riptide Movement at the Olympia Theatre on Friday, March 17th are on sale now priced from €26 with limited tickets remaining.

The Riptide Movement will take to the stage at The Olympia Theatre next month

A BIG PILE OF BLARNEY Ahead of St Patrick’s Day next month author Colin Murphy brings us a humorous and charming insight into one of the most recognisable Irish landmarks – the Blarney Stone. A Big Pile of Blarney was released on Monday and offers anecdotes, stories and quotes about the very Irish notion that is ‘the gift of the gab’. Traditionally kissing the Blarney Stone is thought to make people more eloquent, charming and gives them the ability to tell a good story. Here Murphy explores the origins of the stone in a humorous way, listing off the possible begins of the most famous stone in Ireland. There is a healthy dose of fact to go along with the funny stories and tales of the famous lips that have lingered upon the Blarney Stone. Murphy walks us through the history of Blarney Castle, its origins and the different families that have controlled the mammoth structure throughout the ages. There is also a lovely section in the book which gives quotes from some famous Irish faces who definitely possess the ‘gift of the gab’. This section features Oscar Wilde, WB Yeats and George

Best and illustrates why the Irish are considered some of the most charming people in the world. Illustrated to perfection by Brendan O’Reilly, A Big Pile of Blarney, is a multitude of things including history, myth, humour and fact. The book will answer all of your questions about the

famous stone and the history of the landmarks in the area – just in time for St Patrick’s Day. A Big Pile of Blarney by Colin Murphy and Brendan O’Reilly is published by the O’Brien Press in Ireland and will be released this week priced €8.99.

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CAROLE NASH IRISH MOTORBIKE & SCOOTER SHOW, RDS DUBLIN, 3-5 MARCH 2017 New Bikes, latest accessories, clothing, helmets, training, adventure holidays

… in fact just about everything you need for you and your bike! Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show takes place at the RDS Dublin from the 3rd to the 5th of March. The show will include live action entertainment and all the newest 2017 bikes, latest accessories, clothing, helmets, training, and even adventure holidays, in fact just about everything you need for you and your bike! Some of the show 2017 highlights include:

JOEY DUNLOP TRIBUTE One of the main attractions of this year’s show has to be the exclusive personal Joey Dunlop Tribute which is the first time it will be on display in southern Ireland. See his race bikes, trophies, leathers, helmets from his astonishing 31 years of racing. Celebrities such as John McGuinness, Mick Grant and Eddie Laycock are scheduled to speak over the course of the three day

show. AMD INTERNATIONAL CUSTOM BIKE SHOW It is a firm show favourite with over 50 stunning custom bikes on display that are works of art and engineering genius from all over the world. Sponsored by Deltran Battery Tender with the support of Zodiac Intl and AMD World Championship. ACE GLOBAL STUNT STARZ COMPETITION Be ‘wowed’ by 20 top

Yamaha announced that it would introduce their new 2017 models to the Irish public for the first time at the Carole Nash Irish Motorbike and Scooter Show at the RDS in Dublin, which runs from March 3rd – 5th. Amongst these will be the New Hyper Naked MT-10 SP.

freestyle motorcycle stunt riders competing for the title of ‘Ace of Aces’ all day ever day of the Show. The Ace Global Star Starz Competition is sponsored by Rock Oil and R&G Racing plus supported by Ace Café London. ACE CAFE CLASSIC & RETRO ZONE Motorcycle enthusiasts all over the planet know about The Ace Café London and its pivotal role in the cultural revolution that shaped both the music and machines for future generations. WORLD FAMOUS PURPLE HELMETS At speeds approaching 100 miles per hour - check out this mad cap Isle of Man riders and their crazy gang show. ROCKABILLY LIVE STAGE SHOW The Rockabilly band, Skinny Elvis, will be performing on the main stage supported by the rather fine Rockabilly Roses and Fire Show with everyone dressed by one of the cool Rusty Pistons. GRAFTON BARBER The Grafton Barber team will be offering to groom

WIN WIN WIN WITH NEWSGROUP Win Win Win with Newsgroup and Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show. We have several sets of day passes to be won. To enter simply answer the following question: Where will the Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show take place? Send your answer along with your name and contact details to info@newsgroup.ie by Monday 27th of February. (T&C’s apply)

the visitors that ‘modern’ Rockabilly look. Check out the Harley Davidson’s in the Shop - they’ll even have the bike to match your new look. FLAT TRACK SPEEDWAY There’s lots of speed and excitement with the Off Road Flat Track Racers and for the first time show visitors can learn to ‘flat track race’ too. EDDIE IRVINE RACING CHALLENGE Don’t miss your chance to see how fast you are on a

MotoGP Motorcycle Racing Simulator. This is free of charge to all visitors each day of the show. TRAVEL & ADVENTURE TALKS Since this year’s show is heavy on travel and adventure - expect to hear from some very interesting people who have done some amazing things on two wheels Visit irishmotorbikeshow. com for more information.

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