Clondalkin News ©
15th May 2017
OLDER PEOPLE LOSE OUT AGAIN 01 451 3822 / 01 451 9000
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Programme for Govt commitment falls by the wayside
Local Fianna Fáil TD, John Curran has said he is extremely concerned that older people will be left without the essential services they need as there has been no increase in the allocation of home help hours in the HSE’s Service Plan for 2017. The Deputy made his comments following receipt of a parliamentary response which shows that the
budget allocated for the provision of Home Help hours has not increased despite continued promises.
hours allow people to stay in their own homes, they alleviate the pressure on the acute hospital system.
“Fine Gael has gone to great lengths to point out that there is an economic recovery, yet not one extra hour has been allocated for home help. This is unbelievable given the huge demand for home help hours. “Not only do home help
I am shocked that despite the increased demand for the service and repeated promises to increase funding for home care packages, the Government has failed to allocate funding for additional hours in our region. “The Taoiseach recently
noted in Dáil Eireann that extra money has been allocated for additional home help and that the overall allocation has increased but this simply not the case, in fact the number of hours provided in our region remains the same as in 2016. “It’s widely recognised that older people who stay in their own homes supported by their home helpsand their families have outcomes. I am very worried that hundreds of older people will lose out on essential care as a result of this flawed decision. “The Programme for Government commits to increasing home help hours, but the first HSE Service plan under this new administration has completely ignored this. “I am disappointed by Minister Harris’ failure to direct the HSE to strategically invest more in this important area of Social Care despite an increased overall budget and the existing pressure on an overstretched system,” concluded Deputy Curran.
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MORE MUST BE DONE TO MEET THE HOUSING NEEDS OF THOSE FLEEING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD has requested a meeting with Minister Simon Coveney to discuss how his Department can do more to meet the housing needs of the adults and children fleeing domestic violence. The request comes following the launch of a series of Sinn Féin policy proposals that aim to make it easier for adults and children fleeing domestic violence situations to access accommodation. Speakers at the launch included Margaret Martin, Director of Women’s Aid and Fiona Ryan CEO of Sonas, a provider of frontline domestic violence support services in the Dublin region. The event was chaired by Sinn Féin Health spokesperson Louise Ó Reilly TD. Deputy Ó Broin said: “Unfortunately, Domestic Violence is one of the main triggers of homelessness. SAFE Ireland estimate that 4,000 women
and children per year are accommodated in emergency accommodation who are not being counted and recognised as Homeless. “This document aims to help fill in gaps identified in the current government approach to domestic violence accommodations services. The current provision does not meet the current level of need required, with the refuge spaces available only representing 31% of the spaces needed. “Furthermore, it is impossible to tell the true level of refuge spaces needed as the Department of Housing monthly homeless figures do not include the number of adults and children in Tusla funded domestic violence refuges or step down accommodation. “In an attempt to address these issues, we have made a series of recommendations in our document. Firstly, it is essential that the funding allocated for these services meets the level of need
required. The Government must treble the funding for these supports over five years, from €20m in 2016 to at least €60m in 2021. “We also believe that the provision of emergency and step down accommodation units should fall within the remit of the Department of
Housing with Tusla and NGOs providing support. We also need to see greater flexibility in HAP/Rent Supplement payments to help women transitioning out of abusive situations and there needs to be greater flexibility with the application of council housing allocation schemes.
“However, before all of this can happen, we need to get the basics right. We need the Department of Housing to include the adults and children in Tusla funded accommodation in the monthly Department homeless figures. We need to get the data right so
we know the true scale of problem we are dealing with.
“We have sent Minister Coveney a copy of our document and we have requested a meeting with him to discuss the detail of our proposals.”
TALLAGHT GYM MEMBERS’ TRIATHLON RAISES €3,351 FOR SBHI More than 60 members of Westpark Fitness in Tallaght took part in a gym indoor triathlon last month, raising the huge sum of €3,351.18 for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Ireland (SBHI). Westpark Fitness Assistant Manager, Alison Benson, who organised the successful triathlon, and Duty Manager Sharon Hogan presented the cheque to SBHI CEO Tom Scott earlier this week. “I would sincerely like to thank the Westpark Fitness staff and gym members for undertaking such a successful triathlon fundraising event on behalf of Spina Bifida
Hydrocephalus Ireland (SBHI),” said Mr Scott. “The €3,351.81 raised by your efforts and those of the many members who took part in the triathlon at Westpark Fitness last month is a phenomenal sum. SBHI was delighted to receive the donation and we will use it to make the most difference possible to those we support across Ireland.” “By raising this money, Westpark Fitness staff and members have made and will continue to make a huge contribution towards ensuring that SHINE can continue to take place –
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SBHI CEO Tom Scott, Operations Manager Katy Mc Manus, and Youth & Respite Officer Helen Riney accepting a cheque for €3,351.18 from Westpark Fitness Assistant Manager Alison Benson and Duty Manager Sharon Hogan.
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DEDICATED TRANSPORT POLICE NEEDED TO PATROL LUAS LINE “SURGE IN PUBLIC DISORDER ON TRAMS SERVING DUBLIN SOUTH WEST”
Local Fianna Fáil TD, John Curran has said that we must examine measures to better protect passengers that are experiencing persistent incidents of anti-social behaviour while using Luas red-line services between Tallaght and Saggart.
At a time of increased traffic congestion, it is our duty to reduce the use of our cars and minimise the gridlock that affects so many road
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users. The Luas provides an invaluable service to many and it is essential that all our public transport facilities are protected to support those that commute,” said Deputy Curran. He continued, “Ensuring that public transport is a safe and secure way to travel for all age groups, at all times is vital to maintaining its role at the heart of city life. “The intimidation of transport users and drivers
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which has recently escalated must stop, and a zero tolerance approach must be taken to challenge the culprits. “This can only be done by a number of dedicated transport police, possibly from the Traffic Corps of An Garda Síochána, who are visible and frequently patrolling our buses and Luas in an attempt to deter crime on our public transport system.
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NOONE CALLS FOR AN ASD UNIT BE PROVIDED FOR EVERY SCHOOL Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, has called for at least one ASD unit to be introduced into every school nationwide that needs one.
“Fianna Fáil has long proposed to set up a specific public transport police section within An Garda Síochána. This proposal is fully outlined in our party manifesto,” he added. “While there is a security presence on the tram service, they have very limited authority and there appears to have been little progress in implementing various security initiatives that Transdev committed to in its bid to combat incidents of public disorder. “A collaborative effort between community groups, youth services and addiction services would also help significantly to tackle challenging behaviour by some members of the public on Luas red-line trams. “Security issues on public transport are a serious issue in Dublin particularly on Luas services and late night bus services. Anti-social behaviour and intimidation must not be tolerated,” concluded Deputy Curran.
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“Currently in Ireland, approximately one child in 65 is diagnosed with autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is the name used for a specific set of behavioural and developmental problems and the challenges that go with them. “A diagnosis of ASD means that your child’s communication, social, and play skills are affected in some way which means they have specific educational needs. “Some parents are forced to drive miles to a school in another town or county to access a school with an ASD unit. “I have heard of other cases of children with autism who are currently not attending school due to a lack of a suitable placement. Other children have left school early due to a lack of places. “Studies show that children who do secure a place in an ASD unit can benefit greatly and make good progress. They learn at their own pace in a much smaller class size. Moreover, they get one on one attention in an environment tailor made for their needs. “Some units have access to a sensory room and children can also integrate with main stream classes where possible. “Children with autism have a right to an education in their own local school - as such I am calling on the Minister to make funding available to provide at least one ASD class per school nationwide.”
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DELAYED CRIMINALISATION WILL GIVE DRUG USERS ANOTHER CHANCE FF exploring policy on reforming drug offences for personal use
Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for National Drugs Strategy, Jack Chambers TD has said that the introduction of a delayed criminalisation model for drug offences linked to personal use is aimed at leading more drug users into intervention services to overcome their addiction. The model which is centred on harm reduction will ensure that those caught with small amounts of drugs will be directed towards
appropriate treatment and healthcare rather than immediately convicted of a criminal offence. Ultimately, it will reduce the number of cases where people caught with drugs for personal use, end up in prison. Commenting on the proposal which was supported by the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party earlier this year, Deputy Chambers said, “The antiquated, traditional methods used to address problem drug use and addiction to date have been
proven to not work, and a new innovative approach is urgently needed. “In recent years, two-thirds of drug related prosecutions have been for possession of drugs for personal use, while the number of regular cannabis users has nearly doubled in the past decade. Many of those who face conviction for their addiction are eager to move beyond active drug-use and onto living a life beyond a dependency on drugs. “In essence, our proposed
model would effectively codify what judges nationwide are already doing on an adhoc basis; giving those who are found in the possession of small quantities of drugs another chance by offering referral into treatment to deal with their dependency on drugs. “This approach will direct and support drug users towards proper treatment and intervention services by prioritising healthcare over the criminal justice and prison process,” he added.
“It’s success crucially depends on whether this model is properly codified, constructed and formalised to ensure that people with drug addiction are given the opportunity to overcome addiction. “People who suffer from drug addiction are some of the most stigmatised. As a society we must look to changing our attitude towards those who suffer from drug addiction and make an effort to encourage
drug users into rehabilitation to overcome the odds. “Greater public debate is needed on the effectiveness of the current criminal justice approach and the sanctions it imposes on those suffering from addiction. While there may be much disagreement on the possible effectiveness of adopting this radical policy, what we can all agree on is that this rising problem cannot be let continue to fester,” concluded Deputy Chambers.
RAMS in Rhythm Perform for Alzheimer’s Event by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly
The Retired Active Men’s Social (RAMS) was on hand to support a special event in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland recently.
Newcastle lady Angela Coogan organised the Coffee Morning earlier this month with all proceeds going towards raising awareness
EU NEEDS TO LIMIT ADVERTISING ON STREAMING WEBSITES Fine Gael MEP, Brian Hayes has said that the EU needs to harmonise the advertising rules between traditional TV and rising online platforms. The Dublin MEP was speaking in Brussels where the European Parliament are currently debating revisions to the Audiovisual Services Directive. “The amount of people who use online services to stream music or watch films is increasing right across the EU. In many homes, traditional TV subscriptions have been replaced by online platforms. Therefore
it is important that we adapt the current advertising rules for traditional television to the internet to bring the media world into the 21st century.” “If we don’t harmonise the rules between traditional television and online platforms we could see consumers faced with excessive adverts during peak viewing hours. Current legislation limits advertising on television but does not impose limits online.” “This revision is necessary given the changing nature of television,” concluded MEP Hayes
of Alzheimer’s within the community. The morning event was a great success with over €600 raised for the organisations and RAMS in Rhythm performing some of their favourite songs for the gathered crowd at St Finian’s Community Centre. Many members of the community attended the fundraiser along with residents of 4 District Day Care Centre in Rathcoole and The Ladies Social Group of Newcastle. Angela organised the morning as part of South Dublin County Council’s Bealtaine Festival; a celebration for older people across the county and Alzheimer’s Day. The Newcastle resident was delighted with the turn out and thanked everyone for attending and “showing their support for such a worthy cause”. The atmosphere at St Finian’s Community Centre was one
of celebration and as the RAMS in Rhythm performed some well-known ‘singalong’ tunes which allowed those in attendance to dust off their dance moves and take to the floor. Matt Dowling, RAMS, said: “The attendees were treated to beautiful fare which included beverages, pastries, juices, fruit cakes, meringues, cakes, cupcakes and some delicious freshly made fruit scones.” “Many thanks to all those
who supplied eats and treats and those who helped and supported at the event also. A gathering is never complete without a good raffle and there were lots of great prizes on display to be won too.” Lots of the local businesses also donated prizes including Brady’s Butchers, The Gondola Pub, Dora Kelly’s Spar and Tom Fox Plumbing in Newcastle, Newcastle Hair and Beauty Salon and Newcastle Pharmacy.
Other businesses also came on board to support the event including ‘Your Hair Is Lovely’ Hair Salon, Joeanna Caffrey Flowers and Sue’s Vintage Finds in Rathcoole, Carpe Diem Restaurant in Saggart and Lidl Lucan. Matt said: “It was a great fun morning for all, the RAMS in Rhythm finished with a lively rendition of the Wolfe Tones We’re On The One Road and the floor was busy again with dancers.”
The RAMS in Rhythm
CALLS FOR HSE TO REVIEW DENTAL SERVICES IN DUBLIN WEST Local Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran has called on the HSE to review the Dental Services in Dublin West as a matter of urgency in light of the HSE’s new plan to reduce dental services for the school year 2017 – 2018 in the HSE Dublin West area. The Dublin Mid-West TD said: “In a recent reply from the HSE to a Parliamentary Question I asked I have learnt that the HSE intends to partially reinstate the Boot Road Clinic dental services, which is to be welcomed. However it is of greater concern to learn that the HSE plans to significantly
reduce dental services in Dublin West for the coming school year 2017 – 2018. In the HSE’s reply to my Parliamentary Question they state that - the dentist staffing levels in Dublin West will be reduced for the coming school year 2017 – 2018 – this is unacceptable considering that dental services in the Clondalkin Boot Road Clinic will not be fully reinstated, yet the HSE plans to reduce staffing levels and dental services further across other clinics in Dublin West. This is not good enough and does not provide the children of Dublin West with sufficient local dental services.
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
Clondlakin, Ballyfermot, Rowlagh and Deansrath remain compromised while vacancies have not yet been filled and their plans to further reduce services in the area seem arbitrary”, concluded Deputy Curran.
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John Lahart TD, Councillors Paul Foley, Emma Murphy, Charlie O’Connor
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PROPOSED STUDENT TAX SYSTEM WILL EXACERBATE YOUTH CRISIS
Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan has said that the study on an income-contingent loan scheme, essentially an tertiary education tax, presented to the Oireachtas Education and Skills Committee yesterday evening as part of a report on the ‘Future Funding of Higher Education’ will only serve to exacerbate the crisis for young people in this country if followed through.
MEP Boylan said: “The Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills had a hearing on the ‘Future Funding of Higher Education’ during which it heard findings from a study recommending an income-contingent loan scheme to finance third-level education. The study is partly penned by Professor Bruce Chapman, the architect of an incomecontingent loan system in
Australia. “The idea that Ireland would wish to emulate the student loan system in Australia, which itself sought to emulate the student loan system in America, is utter madness. The loan system in Australia has not delivered for students, nor has it delivered for third-level institutions. It has only sought the further commodification of education by reducing public investment and increasing the burden on students.
“Only last year, the Australian Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) conducted an analysis on the student loan system which showed that the government’s higher education policies would leave students worse off with them ending up paying considerably more for a
university education. “Indeed, it also stated that this tertiary education tax always carries the possibility that if universities are underfunded, fees could increase significantly to cover the cost of the underfunding thus leading to the complete emulation of the disastrous student loan crisis you have in America. “The genesis of this policy is the desire to create ‘market citizens’ and allow third-level education to be subsumed by neoliberal economics. The result would be the commercialisation of third-level education with serious academic consequences, further exacerbation of the difficulties in education accessibility, and taxing students with vast swathes of debt. “The proposed policy which
TDs and Senators heard yesterday was presented as an economic solution for funding third-level education, however, what it was really about is commercialising education and opening it up to marketisation, and finally allowing for privatisation. “Investment in tertiary education is critical to Ireland’s economic and social future, but it should not be done through an additional tax on students, it should be funded through intelligent investment and progressive taxation. “Despite how this proposal is dressed up, it is nothing more than an added tax for students in which they are making a payment for their education in is a system which turns degrees into priced commodities.”
DUBLIN TRAFFIC JAMS SET TO CONTINUE WITHOUT MAJOR NEW INVESTMENT Traffic gridlock in greater Dublin area costing economy €350m a year Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart TD says unless the Government invests in a new transport infrastructure commuters in the Capital will continue to face considerable disruption over the next number of years. Deputy Lahart made the comments after receiving new information which shows that aggravated congestion in the greater Dublin area is currently costing the economy €350 million per annum and is forecasted to rise to €2 billion per annum by 2033. He commented, “The situation regarding traffic congestion in the city has been left to intensify for
some time, and commuting through gridlock traffic has become a challenging daily routine for many living in Dublin and surrounding areas. “Multiple collisions on the Capital’s major motorways and roads, which are leaving traffic at a standstill during rush hour, have now become a common trend and are proving increasingly stressful for daily commuters. “Traffic congestion is set to exacerbate as more commuters take to the city’s transport network. The government’s failure to progress with key transport projects such as the DART Underground and Metro North are a sad reflection on how little investment has
been allocated to improve transport structures in the city. This lack of foresight will only heighten traffic congestion in the weeks and years ahead. “The thousands of passengers that rely on Dublin Bus services are undoubtedly concerned there still is no plan in place to return routes once the Luas Cross City project is
Thousands of passengers rely on Dublin Bus services
completed. This is likely to cause serious disruption and add significantly to the length of journey time for commuters. “An increase in public transport options which are independent of the road network are crucial for commuters and will ultimately help alleviate this traffic congestion,” concluded Deputy Lahart.
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Internet Safety Workshop for Parents The internet has become an essential part of modern life and has revolutionized access to information and social interactions. Among children and teenagers this has created a real opportunity for them to be exposed to individuals and material that can be extremely harmful. With the incredible fast pace in which technology has developed it is difficult for parents to keep up with all the dangers and how best to deal with them. Cyberbullying, grooming, sextortion, revenge porn, inappropriate content, identity theft and privacy are just some of the issues that a child or teenager may face while online. Safe & Online is a start up company founded by Patrick O’Hare, a Childline volunteer and a former Safety Analyst & Team Manager in Facebook.
It’s ultimate goal is to equip parents with a better understanding of online dangers as well the tools and knowledge needed to help avoid these dangers and the actions you can take to deal with them. The next Internet Safety Workshop for Parents will be on Thursday 1st June from 2pm - 4pm in Firhouse community Centre, with future dates to follow. To book your place go to www. safeandonline.com or call Patrick on 0874155822. By providing parents with context on the source of online dangers as well as how they might occur and then offering prevention and remedial actions that you can take we believe an environment can be created where children are protected from online dangers.
IRISH JUDGES WELL TRAINED IN EU LAW BUT THERE IS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
MEP Brian Hayes said that although Ireland is currently a leader in the training of its judges on EU law, it is crucial that we continue to make progress. “According to the Commissions’ 2016 report on judicial training, the percentage of Irish judges trained in EU law is around 55%, ranking Ireland 5th place across the EU. The EU average is 28%, so clearly the Irish judiciary and the Irish courts service have made significant progress. But we should not sit back and assume that everything is perfect or that across the various courts in the country that the knowledge of and understanding of EU law is evenly understood. “For example, the Human Rights Education for Legal Professionals programme known as ‘HELP’ which serves as the Council of Europe’s platform for the judicial education of legal professionals on the ECHR and fundamental rights is not being utilised. So far, it has received €1.6 million in EU funding for its ‘HELP in
the 28’ programme which has already benefited 16 member states. Ireland, however, remains one of the 12 EU countries that have not availed of the plan due to the limited budget of the Council of Europe. If the Commission is to reach its stated goal of engaging half of all legal professionals in EU judicial training by 2020, then further financial support on its part is required. “Ireland must also further integrate itself within the objectives of the European Judicial Training Network. The EJTN maintains that the responsibility of funding EU legal training institutions falls to national governments and so if we are to integrate and expand EU legal competence among judges further, the Irish government must be willing to contribute in turn. In Ireland’s case this would mean further contributions to the Committee for Judicial Studies which this year will operate on a budget of €300,000 for all of its training activities. The EU
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MEP Brian Hayes legal ‘training’ it provides to judges is normally in the form of seminars, however, which raises separate questions about how extensive and practical it is in reality. “Moreover, it is vital that if such training is to be applicable down the road, we must ensure that it becomes a continuous endeavour, not a once off novelty. To achieve our goals we must promote the idea that being trained and up to date on EU legislation is a responsibility among judges in all levels of the courts. “If progress slows or stalls on this front we may expect to see further injustices such as the recent home repossession rulings whereby circuit court judges neglected to apply relevant EU human
rights legislation due to lack of training in EU law. This case sheds a worrying light on the disparities of EU legal knowledge within the different courts. When I asked the courts service for a breakdown on judges trained per court jurisdiction I was told that such information was not available. “Having judges on all levels trained on the European Convention on Human Rights and the EU charter on Fundamental Rights would be an invaluable asset for the protection of Irish citizens. Moreover, across Europe issues around xenophobia, radicalization and data protection are proving detrimental to fundamental rights. For this reason we need mutual trust in legal systems and a common judicial culture across the EU where personal rights and freedoms are protected at local and European level. Ireland has the opportunity to spearhead this effort and to strengthen the integrity of her judiciary while setting an example for other states along the way.
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GARDA TRAFFIC CORPS CONTINUES TO DECREASE
Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran has criticised the Government for failing to accelerate the deployment of Garda personnel to the traffic corps in 2017. Through information
received through a Parliamentary Question to the Dublin TD John Curran the number of Gardaí deployed to the Traffic Corps continues to decline in 2017. Commenting on the issue Deputy Curran said: “Over
Cllr Vicki Casserly
“Working Together For Our Community” Vicki can be contacted on 085 8317982
email: vcasserly@cllrs.sdublincoco.ie
the past 3 years the Garda Traffic Corps has declined by 140 officers. In March 2014 there were 795 Gardaí assigned to the Traffic Corps and in March 2017 a total of 655 Gardaí are currently assigned. However, a total of 54 people have lost their lives on the roads in the Republic of Ireland to date in 2017 and 2016 saw a 15% increase in road fatalities in the Republic of Ireland. Road safety has fallen down the list of priorities under the current Government. The number of Gardaí attached to the Traffic Corps has fallen dramatically, and commitments from the Garda Commissioner in her Policing Plan 2017 to improve road safety by increasing the number of
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personnel dedicated to traffic duties by 10% in 2017, expanding the use of technology, increasing checkpoints has yet to be enacted. “The Gardaí Traffic Corps needs additional resources now more than ever, but the figures provided to me by the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald is evidence that the number of Gardaí deployed to carry out road safety duties is in decline over the last 3 years and this is scandalous in light of the recent increase in Road Fatalities and collisions. It seems Minister Ross is more interested in launching Road Safety campaigns than taking any action to assist Gardaí in their day to day duties of policing speeding and road traffic enforcement,” concluded Deputy Curran.
3 DAY MYSTERY BIKETOUR
Andrew Duff, Lucan and Alan Kavanagh, Swords pictured on Sunday morning before they head off on the ‘RevUp4DSI’ / Down Syndrome Ireland 3 Day Mystery BikeTour around Ireland. Over 140 bikers are taking part in the three-day annual motorbike event, which started in Dublin on Saturday and continues with a mystery 1,000km tour around Ireland to raise vital funds for the charity.(Photo: Don MacMonagle)
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DÁIL AGREEMENT ON MATERNITY SERVICES WELCOMED
Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has welcomed the passing of his party’s Private Members’ Motion on maternity services. The Sinn Féin TD described it as a victory for common sense and that it will bring hope for all women who need to access maternity services. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “I am delighted that our motion, which contains a commitment to ensure the new National Maternity Hospital is built on the St. Vincent’s Hospital campus as quickly as possible and crucially remains entirely within
public ownership, was agreed by the Dáil. “Over the past number of weeks we have seen a conversation started on the issue of our maternity services and women’s health. That’s clearly a good thing and good for society. Our current maternity services are not up to standard, and are failing women and their children. “Our comprehensive motion contained a wealth of proposals for improvements to our maternity services including universal access to foetal anomaly screening, and the full implementation
of the National Maternity Strategy. It also contained a commitment to work with nursing and medical unions in the recruitment and retention of medical staff so that all maternity hospitals meet the Birth rate plus standard for midwifery staffing, as well as international standards for consultant obstetricians and gynaecologists. “This decision was a victory for common sense and was agreed without amendment by all TDs. “The motion not only addressed the
contentious matter of state ownership but also called for a legal guarantee for independence from all non-medical influence in its clinical operations within the laws of the State.
Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called for effective action in respect of crime and anti-social behavior in the West Tallaght estates. He spoke on the matter at the April meeting of the Tallaght Area Committee when Council Management tabled a report on Statisitical Analysis of Anti Social Behavior reported to the Council in the area. The 2016 report noted that there were 24 reports of drug activity, 16 reports of criminal activity, 4 reports of joy riding
and 53 reports of violence/intimidation/ harassment. According to Charlie O’Connor, who is also the Council’s representation on the Local Policing Forum, the situation appears to be worse at the present time and he quoted a resident of Rossfield Estate who had contacted local Councillors regarding the situation and had stated that the area “is being run by drug dealers and car thieves and all the actual decent people are gone into hiding”.
He added that there were many reports of joy riding and burnt out cars and said that the West Tallaght area needs special attention by the Council and particularly by the Gardai. The local Councillor also confirmed that he had received information later in the week that contractors working for the Council on repairing gullies in Glenshane and Rossfield had been attacked and robbed by youths and that the workers had also been subject to stone throwing.
He has called on the Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald TD, to allocate additional resources to the Tallaght Gardai to allow for effective actions to be taken in respect of these matters and stressed that the decent people of the Council’s estates must be protected from this disgraceful behavior. He also repeated his call to Council Management, made at the TAC meeting, to stress to the Gardai the need to tackle these issues and protect the local community.
“In a world of Aldi’s, Lidl’s, Click & Collect and Online Shopping, Reynolds of Clondalkin bucks the trend. Whilst the shop has a cash register, they don’t use it. When I buy my items, Harry ads them up on the back of a box of Corn Flakes.” “They have been serving customers for 55 years. The shop was around since the houses in St. Brigid’s were built. Reynolds truly is the only local shop left in Dublin. Unfortunately, we lost Chapmans recently - one of the
oldest local newsagents in Clondalkin. Reynolds takes you back to the traditional local shop experience you won’t find anywhere in the Dublin of today. Harry works long hours but enjoys what he does.” “Harrys rolls are made fresh every day – leave it to late and they’ll be gone. The same can be said for their jam doughnuts. We drive past the shop regularly, I defy anyone pass the shop without buying a roll and a doughnut!” Stated Cllr Trevor Gilligan PC, Clondalkin,
Newcastle, Rathcoole. Pictured are Harry
Reynolds and Trevor Gilligan.
“Members of the Dáil have clearly echoed the public’s demand for complete transparency on the creation of a new maternity hospital on the St. Vincent’s site and have supported our party’s urgent call for the much needed upgrading and improvement to the services provided to women.”
O’CONNOR CALLS FOR ACTION ON CRIME AND ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOR IN WEST TALLAGHT
THE 55 YEAR OLD SHOP IN CLONDALKIN THAT DOESN’T USE A CASH REGISTER
Cllr
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SEANAD SUPPORTS PASSING OF GENDER RECOGNITION BILL Sinn Féin spokesperson for the Arts, Youth Affairs and LGBTQI Rights, Senator Fintan Warfield has welcomed the unanimous passing of Gender Recognition (Amendment) Bill 2017 in the Seanad. The Bill, if enacted, will allow young transgender people to be legally recognised by their true gender. The Bill amends the Gender Recognition Act 2015 in three ways: Removes the arduous process for young people between 16 – 17 to receive gender recognition putting them on equal (informed consent) criteria to those over 18. Allows for young people under 16 to receive gender recognition with parental consent. Allows for non-binary and intersex persons to be specifically considered in the review of the Gender Recognition Act. Senator Warfield said: “I welcome the positive support shown by all parties and independents today to the issue of gender recognition for young trans and non-binary people. “The lack of legal recognition leaves them with substantial difficulties in everyday life regarding schools, travel, and work. “I thank the Senators who supported the Bill passing through second stage and call on all parties to ensure the gender recognition of our young trans and non-binary people is made a reality in the near future.”
MAJOR FUNDING FOR LOCAL SPORTS
Local sport in the South Dublin County Council area has received a major boost with funding of €176,217 which will be used to make activities accessible to all, according to Independent Minister and Dublin South West TD, Katherine Zappone. Minister Zappone is welcoming the fact that some of the funding will be used to get people with disabilities and women involved. The grant is being provided
by the Government to the Local Sport Partnership.
Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has criticised Transport Minister Shane Ross for refusing to exempt voluntary sea and river search vehicles from having to pay road tolls.
their helicopter Rescue 116 crashed off the Mayo coast in April. Deputy Snodaigh said: “The cost to voluntary rescue crews travelling on tolled road places an unnecessary financial burden on men and women who provide a vital service to the State when an emergency occurs.
Minister Zappone added:“Sport is the lifeblood of our communities. We can be proud that we have facilities to cater for all activities. Our stadia, playing fields and clubs can rival the best in the country. However it is important that everyone is encouraged to take part. Not just for the excitement, passion and
energy that comes from sport but also for the huge health benefits. The money now being made available will be used for education and training initiatives, community sport development officers, an inclusion programme for people with disabilities and programmes aimed at women. The aim is to increase the numbers taking part in sport, in particular in target groups where participation
levels are lower. The support from Sport Ireland underlines the belief of the Government that sport benefits the individual and the entire community – by providing much needed activity for our young people.
Forces are exempt from having to pay road tolls. “The Minister went on to explain that voluntary and community organisations such as river and sea rescue have to pay road tolls in order to ensure the ‘fair and robust system of tolling enforcement’. He also claimed that exempting the voluntary and community sector from tolls would incur a ‘cost to the Exchequer as the PPP toll operators would have to be reimbursed for losses’. “Considering the vital role
voluntary sea and rescue organisations play in often hazardous circumstances, I believe any cost to the Exchequer incurred by exempting them from road tolls or at the very least reimbursing theme to for tolls is totally justified.
As some-one who enjoys many sports as a participant and as a spectator I will be asking that the funding is turned into action as quickly as possible.
TRANSPORT MINISTER CRITICISED FOR FAILING TO EXEMPT RESCUE CREWS FROM TOLLS
Deputy Ó Snodaigh was reacting to Minister Ross’s reply to a parliamentary question he had tabled having been contacted by voluntary rescue crews involved recently in the search for the missing Coast Guard personnel who were lost at sea when
“In the Minister’s reply to my question, he confirmed that only ambulance, fire brigade vehicles, and vehicles used by members of An Garda Síochána or the Defence
Indeed, it is reprehensible that they are expected to pay road tolls en route to assisting in emergencies and I will be looking at tabling an amendment to the existing legislation that would address this matter.”
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ROCKING THE YARD IN LEIXLIP 2017 Festival line-up announced as weekend tickets go on sale!
Some of the biggest names on the Irish music scene have been confirmed for this year’s Leixlip Festival open air music spectacular at the Court Yard Hotel. The eagerly-awaited festival this June Bank Holiday weekend will see an amazing line-up of headline acts including Le Galaxie, The Blizzards, The Riptide Movement and the massively popular annual Monday night headliner, Smash Hits, who are guaranteed to rock the yard with a powerful blast of rip-roaring feel-good boogie! Once again the Court Yard Hotel has put together a line-up of incredible music talent, on par with the best music entertainment in any major city or music venue, and at a fraction of the cost. The headline act on Friday June 2nd is Dublin-based Le Galaxie, an electronic dance music band feted as Ireland’s best live act. Their debut album Laserdisc Nights II was released in 2011 and they have supported Faithless on their Irish tour, sold out the Olympia Theatre, and had festival goers at Lovebox, Benicassim and Electric Picnic on their feet and dancing non-stop. For their Court Yard debut Le Galaxie will be presenting brand new music from their new album, including the first single release, Pleasure, a sensuous slice of dance pop with powerful vocals. Support on Friday night is from Chasing Abbey, the charismatic Tullamore trio with a unique pop, dance and hip-hop style that saw their debut single, That Good Thing hit the top of the iTunes download chart
within 24 hours of being released. On Saturday June 3rd, Mullingar five piece The Blizzards headline, having taken time out from live performance in recent years. Lead singer Niall Breslin, better known as Bressie, turned to music production and his role on the Voice of Ireland, but the their new single last year, Drop Down the Anchor, showed the multi-platinum selling band to be back with a serious bang! Indie folk band Brave Giant is supporting The Blizzards on stage in the Court Yard, an original five-piece from Longford, who have been blazing a trail across Ireland in the past year, to rave reviews. Sunday June 4th sees the welcome return of The Riptide Movement to Rock the Yard open air music festival weekend at the Court Yard Hotel. The hugely popular Lucan locals have a huge following for their legendary live shows and fans will again be wowed by hits including It All Works Out, You and I, Elephant in the Room and their newest single Changeling. Support coming from none other than Brian Downey, Thin Lizzy founding member, with Brian’s Alive and Dangerous 40th Anniversary Tour. Celebrated by both the international drumming community and Lizzy fans alike, Brian ‘Can’t wait to get the show on the road’ bringing us classic hits such as ‘Jailbreak’, ‘The Boys are Back in Town’ and the iconic ‘Still in Love With You’.
A fantastic weekend of live music culminates on Monday June 5th as Smash Hits headline, with Bray trio, The Luna Boys, supporting, with their eclectic mix of catchy covers and original tunes. With upwards of twenty local and national acts and DJs featuring in the 2017 Leixlip Festival line-up at the Court Yard Hotel, according to Laura Moriarty. “We have four days and nights of top music and entertainment as part of this year’s Leixlip Festival, and there is literally something for everyone in the family. Rock the Yard will again thrill true Irish music fans, and cement our reputation as one of Ireland’s top local music festivals as part of the Traditional Leixlip Salmon Festival”, the Operations Director at the family-run hotel group says. To enjoy the best live Irish music acts at the 2017 Leixlip Festival, weekend and day pass tickets are now available for ‘Rock the Yard’ on the Courtyard Hotel website http://www. courtyard.ie/ticket-sales. There are 500 advance purchase weekend tickets for just €30, plus booking fee, offering four great nights of live music for the price of three. Individual day tickets are also available to buy in advance on the website for €10 or at the gate each day, subject to availability. FAMILY FUN - Sunday and Monday from 12-3pm are our family fun times at the Court Yard Hotel, with children’s entertainment and sweet treats, and the fabulous Festival Food Court will be cooking up gourmet bites and great meals all weekend long.
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TALLAGHT WOMEN SMOKE FREE AFTER TAKING PART IN FREE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY ‘WE CAN QUIT’ PROGRAMME
A group of women from Tallaght are now celebrating after completing a free programme called ‘We Can Quit’ which aims to help women quit smoking together. In total, 12 women from the area successfully completed the course, held in the Fettercairn Community Centre, and 10 women have completely quit smoking. The women commenced the
free 12-week programme in February. They attended weekly group sessions and one to one support meetings as well as receiving 12 weeks of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) to the value of €450 free of charge. The programme was open to female smokers over the age of 18 years and living in the Tallaght area. Rachel Burke, Community
Cancer Prevention Officer at the Irish Cancer Society said: “We would like to congratulate all of the local women who have completed We Can Quit – it is a fantastic achievement which will have a positive impact on their lives, and those of their families. “
quitting journey. Through the programme, women can access a friendly and supportive network of likeminded women who really understand what they are going through. Together, the women in We Can Quit help each other to quit smoking
for good.” We Can Quit is an initiative of the Irish Cancer Society and in partnership with the HSE, Fettercairn Community Health Project, South Dublin County Partnership, South Dublin County Council and Rossfield Pharmacy.
To find out more about We Can Quit or to register your interest for the next course, visit the Irish Cancer Society’s website www. c a n c e r. i e / w e - c a n - q u i t or contact Rachel Burke rburke@irishcancer.ie or call 01 2316 669
“We Can Quit offers women support to take on and succeed on their
Pictured at the graduation ceremony in Tallaght were the successful participants of the Irish Cancer Society’s We Can Quit programme. Left to right, Audrey Kane, Suzanne Fallon, Patricia Roche, Sinead O’Byrne, Ann Marie Reddy, Caroline Page, Lauren Mason, Catherine Corrigan, Eibhlin Barrett and Audrey Munroe.
DUBLIN BAND RELEASE DEBUT EP by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly The future looks bright for Dublin band, Future Fears, who released debut EP Lucid recently. Future Fears is composed of singer and bassist David Duggan, Amy McDonagh on guitar, drummer Enrico Goffi and Susan Ward on keyboards and back vocals. The four-piece band came up with the title for the debut EP because of their love of trying to create songs that have a “large ethereal soundscape” and the members feel that the songs have a ‘dreamscape’ element throughout. The EP features three songs, Call My Name, Somebody and Lay It On The Line; throughout the journey the band worked with producer Ray Traynor who has collaborated with The Script, The Coronas and One Republic and recorded the EP in Park West. Ballyfermot man Dave fronts the band and is the lead singer. He explained that Future Fears originally started out as a solo act but grew into its current configuration by chance. He said: “Keith McLoughlin, who is now our manager, had mentioned that he was working with a girl called Amy McDonagh who would be perfect for what I needed and from there we gelled so well that we decided to go as a two-piece original
band while we were still recording.” “We gigged for a few months as a duo but then we met Enrico Goffi by chance on an online forum for musicians and we were really impressed by the videos and recordings he sent us so we organised a jam and it didn’t take us long to ask if he wanted to come on board. He gladly accepted the offer and we then gigged another few months as a threepiece. It took many jams and failed attempts to find a keyboard player but we happened to be playing the Songwriter Club in the city centre one night and the act that followed us was Susan Ward who was a songwriter herself.”
Susan is from Walkinstown while Amy hails from Claremorris in Mayo, and Italian Enrico lives in Bray – together the four-piece band aims to “make good music, keep writing, recording, releasing material and gig around Ireland”. The band is influenced by Thin Lizzy, Dusty Springfield, Phil Collins and Joanne Shaw Taylor, giving them a varied sound and well-rounded musical knowledge. Future Fears played a headline show in April ahead of the launch of Lucid and plans to continue gigging around Ireland and the UK in the coming months. For more information visit www. futurefearsmusic.com.
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The Legal Column
Q. Myself and my husband have divorced and I now wish to revert to my maiden name and I am wondering as to the procedure involved. Could you please advise me? Also, can I change my children’s names back to my maiden name? My son is 19 years old and my daughter is 14 years old. I would appreciate whatever advice you can give.
your various Banks, etc. and if necessary, produce your Birth Certificate to prove your identity. A Utility Bill may also be required to prove your current address. With regard to your children, you cannot change a child’s name without the consent of both parents, unless one of the parents is not a Guardian, in which case his or her consent is not required. However, your nineteen year old son is already an adult in the eyes of the law and must make the decision himself to change his name back to your maiden name. In the case of your daughter, who was registered at birth with her father’s name, you will require a document known as a Deed Poll to be executed to change her surname back to your maiden name. This can be done relatively simply at nominal costs and is enrolled in the High Court as proof of a ‘name change’. This is only required for young people and adults whose Birth Certificates are not consistent with the name they wish to use into the future. Technically we can all change our name to almost any name we wish by means of a Deed Poll.
Changing your name to that of your husband on marriage, is a matter of form and not law. There is no legal obligation whatsoever to change your name to that of your husband’s surname on marriage. Equally therefore, if you have been using your married name on various documents, it is a very easy matter to change back to your maiden name. You simply write to
Q. I have a ten-year-old daughter who is being brought up by her mother and I have since gotten married and have had two more children with my new wife. My wife feels that we should now make wills and that I should favour my two children, as I am not very actively involved in my first daughter’s life. What is the position legally?
Romaine Scally, Solicitor
Romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of ROMAINE SCALLY AND COMPANY SOLICITORS, Main Street , Tallaght, Dublin 24.
TEL 01 4599 506
FAX 01 4599 510
The simple answer to this question is that all children are viewed equally in the eyes of the Law and your ten year old daughter has the same rights as the children of your marriage. All three children are dependant and are therefore equally entitled to your support. For that reason it would be pointless to leave this child out of your Will as his mother would certainly have a legitimate cause of action against your estate if anything where to happen to you during her minority. The question arises of course as to whether or not there is much in your estate to leave to your beneficiaries. For most couples, family homes are purchased in the joint names of both husband and wife. In this event, if one spouse predeceases the other, then the house automatically passes to the surviving spouse and does not go through the estate of the deceased. The same is the situation with bank accounts. It is only in a situation where you might be the surviving spouse that a problem might arise in relation to your beneficiaries. For most couples, certainly in the present climate, there really is little to fight about unless you are the surviving spouse and the mortgage has been paid off on foot of a mortgage protection policy. However, the law is absolutely clear and all children are treated equally in the eyes of the law and you need to explain to your Wife that you could be exposing your estate to a costly legal challenge in the event that this child is deliberately excluded from your Will. We hope that this clarifies the situation.
email: legal@scally.ie
Q. About 3 years ago, my daughter who was 10 years of age at the time, was out playing with her friends on our road when she was attacked by a neighbour’s dog. At the time, I did not do anything about it as I was just glad that she was okay and I hoped that the scar would fade. Now however, my daughter is 13 years of age and has become self-conscious about the scar on her leg. I had never considered that any scarring might cause her emotional distress once she was older. It is too late to do something about this for my daughter? Generally, Personal Injuries actions are limited by Section 7 of the Civil Liability and Courts Act, 2004 to two years from the date of the accident. However, the applicable time limit within which to make a claim for accidents to children differs from that of adult. The 2 year time limit which applies to adults DOES NOT apply to children. You can take a personal injuries action on behalf of your child anytime up until the time the child reaches 18 years of age. Thereafter, the child themselves has a further two years from their 18 birthday in which to consider pursuing a claim. In short therefore, you are perfectly entitled to bring a personal injuries action on behalf of your child now. However we would suggest that you immediately contact a Solicitor with a view to pursuing matters further on behalf of your child.
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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Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has welcomed confirmation from the HSE that the building programme on the new Community Nursing Unit in Tymon North, Tallaght, is now expected to commence in June. Both Charlie O’Connor and his local colleague Cllr. Mick Duff welcomed progress at the April meeting of the Regional Health Forum Dublin Mid-Leinster when the HSE reported that it had received tenders in respect of the new 100 bed Community Nursing Unit
and Day Care Centre in Tymon North and that these tenders had been examined and that finalisation of all of the necessary approvals are being collated. The HSE said in a statement that “This community unit will be built as replacement for St. Brigid’s home Crooksling due to the fact that St Brigid’s does not meet the National Quality Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People in Ireland.” The HSE has further told Charlie O’Connor that
the new Community Unit will take approximately 2 years to build and that “St Brigid’s Community Unit will remain open until the build is finalised”. The HSE has further confirmed that they will be working closely with all staff, families and residents to ensure a smooth transition to the new purpose built state of the art facility in Tymon North. Charlie O’Connor promised to continue to monitor the development closely on behalf of the community.
City Kitchens at Country Prices! BREAKING EMMETS BLOCK SCULPTURE
The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr. Guss O’Connell with artist Alice Rekab The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr. Guss O’Connell welcomed guests to the official opening of the new Centenary Plaza and the unveiling of Breaking Emmets Block Sculpture at the Grange Road in Rathfarnham.
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This innovative project was led by South Dublin County Council with funding from the National Transport Authority and has resulted in the delivery of a cycle and walking scheme with public realm improvements on the Grange Road. The concept for this project was developed from a proposed cycle scheme at public consultation workshops with the local community in Rathfarnham where the role of the bicycle in the movement of people during the 1916 Rising including Padraig and Willie Pearse leaving St. Enda’s by bicycle to meet in the City Centre on the morning of the Easter Rising was highlighted. Speaking at the event the Mayor said “It is great to
see so many of you here for the official opening of this new civic space which is a legacy project from South Dublin County Council’s 1916 Centenary Programme. The Centenary Programme really captured the imagination of the citizens of South Dublin County in celebrating the birth of our nation over 100 years ago”. The new Grange Road cycle route wraps around St Enda’s Park creating a new entrance into the park which is home to the wonderful Pearse Museum. This project is both a transport route and an avenue for artistic discovery set against the backdrop to the to St Enda’s Park. A key strand of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme was Cultural Expression which focused on a sustained engagement with cultural heritage and the arts. Breaking Emmets Block, a sculpture forged from polished concrete and steel was unveiled at the opening. This unique piece of public artwork was designed by
artist Alice Rekab and commissioned by South Dublin County Council. Inspired by the artefact of Robert Emmets Block – which is housed in the Pearse Museum – the sculpture is designed “To reflect the impact of change and the emergence of a new world from the old. The sculpture “speaks to the heroism, brilliance and imagination that underpin the history of St. Enda’s park” says artist Alice Rekab. Ms Rekab explains that Robert Emmet’s Block “draws through lines between the socialist ideals of the Irish free state and their remnants in the contemporary Irish psyche”. The project is the joint effort of South Dublin County Council, The National Transportation Authority, Ireland 2106 Office, The Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government with the cooperation of The Office of Public Works (Pearse Museum).
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USI Reveals Students Working 1 Hour Shifts To Oireachtas Committee The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) revealed during a presentation to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation that students are working 1 hour shifts as a result of some employers applying ‘If and When’ or zero-hour contracts. During this presentation, USI called for the ban of zero hour contracts across all employment. Speaking to the Oireachtas Committee, USI President Annie Hoey stated, “Students typically work in wholesale and retail and accommodation and food sectors. Evidence shows that these sectors are not only low-paid, but provide very low hours - typically 1 8 hours. These ‘If and When’ or zero hour contracts lend to unpredictable working hours and unstable income which can have a negative impact on students’ financial security”. Speaking before the
presentation a 3rd year DIT student denounced zero hour contracts, “Currently I’m on a zero hour contract, making it impossible to budget or plan. At most, I’ll find out that I have a shift a week in advance. While the zero hour contract seems great in terms of flexibility with my college schedule, it makes it difficult to spend money on anything other than the bare essentials of food, bus fare and medication like my antidepressants without worrying that I’ll need the money later. A low wage with no stability in terms of hours creates unnecessary stress, but I know that having no contract means kicking up a fuss leaves me powerless. I can never challenge my manager if I feel unfairly treated as I’m easily replaced. I’m paid twice a month, and I’ve had paycheques be weeks or a month late but I’m afraid to kick up too much of a fuss in case that’s the last cheque
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I’ll get.” Hoey continued to raise concerns to the Committee stating “USI argue that students who are contracted with low hours and on ‘If and When’ feel insecure and powerless at work. To think someone would not want predictability and security every week is a dangerous misconception. Laws that enshrine certainty to workers will not negatively impact business.”. USI President Annie Hoey and USI Vice President for Campaigns Daniel Waugh presented to the Committee on the detailed scrutiny of Banded Hours Contract Bill 2016 alongside representative of Teachers Union of Ireland and Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland and representatives of TASC and Migrant Rights Centre Ireland on May 9th. USI welcomed the Bill, and believe it is a step in right direction in ensuring that those who are studying can have a sense of security and not be exploited while studying.
RAY D’ARCY STEPS OUT FOR IKA’S RUN FOR A LIFE
Popular RTÉ broadcaster Ray D’Arcy stepped out with two lively young transplant recipients for a photocall to highlight the Irish Kidney Association’s annual family fun run, ‘Run for a Life’.
The charity fundraiser which will take place at Corkagh Park, Dublin 22 on Saturday, 20th May, celebrates the ‘gift of life’ and aims to raise awareness about the vital importance of organ donation and transplantation. At the photocall Ray was joined by Shannen Proudfoot (age 10) from Nobber, Co. Meath, who underwent a kidney transplant operation three years ago at Temple Street Hospital thanks to her donor aunt Ann McGivney whose donor operation took place at Beaumont Hospital. Representing Children’s Liver Disease Ireland (CLDI) was Elizabeth Murphy (age 11) from Ballyboughal, Dublin and her mother Suzie. Elizabeth underwent a liver transplant when she
was just five months old at King’s College Hospital London while under the care of Crumlin’s Children’s Hospital.
‘Run for a Life’ is open to people of all ages with the option of walking, jogging or running competitively in either a chip timed 2.5km, 5km or 10km distance. Pictured was
Shannen Proudfoot (age 10) from Nobber, Co. Meath, who underwent a kidney transplant operation three years ago at Temple Street Hospital thanks to her donor aunt Ann McGivney whose donor operation took place at Beaumont Hospital. For more information visit www. runforalife.ie. (Picture Conor McCabe Photography)
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WELLFEST 2017
COUNTDOWN TO MORE AFFORDABLE CHILDCARE STARTS FOR LOCAL FAMILIES
The countdown to More Affordable Childcare for families in Tallaght and surrounding communities has begun, according to Independent Minister and Dublin South West TD, Katherine Zappone. The Minister is confirming that local childcare services are now receiving information in the post about new arrangements, which will see families benefit by an extra €19m nationwide.
Roz Purcell and Joe Wicks Pictured at the SuperValue Well Food Tent at Wellfest 2017 Herbert Park (Pic Patrick O’Leary)
The mail-shot to providers is going to be followed by a major awareness campaign aimed at parents and families – which will be launched by the end of the month. Minister Zappone added: “Switching our childcare system from being one of
the most expensive in the world to one of the best was never going to be easy. But the countdown for more affordable childcare for Tallaght families is finally underway.
Local childcare centres will in the coming week receive a letter in the post. It invites them to become a registered provider offering state subsidised schemes. That will be followed at the end of the month with a major awareness campaign aimed at families. From September every child aged between 6-months and 3-years in registered childcare will get some level of support. The child can be in full or part-time registered childcare. There will be no minimum number of hours
and no maximum number of weeks for eligibility. In addition, we are going to lift the cost barrier for those families who need it most. These targeted supports will be enhanced significantly with the top rate of subsidy available rising from €95 per week to €145 per week and part-time rates will increase to €80 per week. The extra money will be available for those parents who cannot enter work, training or education because they cannot pay for childcare. They will also be available to those who
are working but on lower incomes and for whom the cost of childcare acts as a major disincentive. Can I encourage every family in Tallaght to spend time in the coming weeks examining their entitlements and make sure they get the full benefit of what’s on offer. It is the first big step as we correct years of under investment in our childcare services by successive Governments. But let me assure families and providers that once we take this step there will be no going back.”
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TAKE A STAND TO SAVE HELL FIRE SITE AND MASSY’S WOOD by Liam McNevin
LANDSCAPE AS PRESENCE: “HOW CAN PEOPLE BE SO INSENSITIVE TO THE DIGNITY AND INDEPENDENCE OF LANDSCAPE? THIS ABUSE AND RAPE HAS ITS ROOTS IN GREED BUT ALSO IN BLIGHTED PERCEPTION. LANDSCAPE AND ITS EXTRA-HUMAN INHABITANTS EXIST MAINLY IN THE MODE OF STILLNESS AND SILENCE - THEY CANNOT FIGHT BACK. LANDSCAPE IS VULNERABLE - IT CANNOT GET OUT OF THE WAY.” JOHN O’DONOHUE There is a lot of talk about development these days as if in doing so we are making something better. When I was young we were told the ‘best things in life are free’ How true that has turned out to be. As a boy I was always out and about; cycling, hiking and hosteling with An Oige. With a family of my own the enthusiasm for the great outdoors naturally passed on to them. When I walk along Montpelier Hill these days I see scores of parents availing of this public amenity. They appreciate the quietness, the wildlife and the fantastic scenery. Just think of yourself travelling up the Greenhills road and the vista of hillscape invigorates. Or approaching along the Old Bawn road the hill looms large welcoming you home. The same can be said if coming from Ballyboden or along the M50, this perfect sight speaks for itself. It is a county landmark, like Killiney Hill or Bray Head. The development density in
the surrounding area has been huge over the last twenty years and the public amenity that is Montpelier Hill must not be interfered with. By all means upgrade the natural trails that exist on the hill. For e.g. the access located on the Old Court Road that leads to the trails that pass along by Carthy’s Castle. These are splendid walks all leading to the summit. The land at Orlagh and the Novitiate, (the big white house that is visible a little ways up the hill) has recently been sold. This house is a protected prospect which means it must remain visible when looking up and cannot be blocked. It must not become blighted by the overcrowding of construction! There are proposed plans for the development of the Hell Fire Club site and Massy’s Wood? It’s a money making venture between Coillte, Failte Ireland and South Dublin County Council at a cost of 19 million. This would consist of two buildings; one, the Interpretive Centre at over 70 meters long. (the size of a large shopping centre) Nature isn’t meant to be
interpreted, to experience it you get out and walk it. Anything else is bizarre! Also proposed is a treetop footbridge to link this development to Massy’s Wood. These places are fragile and are not suitable for this kind of development. It is a natural woodland, where recently the native Red Squirrell has been reintroduced! Another building worth a mention is the Stewards House that stands adjacent to the entrance to Massy’s Wood. It is steeped in folklore and is also a Protected Prospect. The Dublin mountains stretch from Tallaght to Carrickmines. They belong to everyone and no one . Keep Ireland Open is an organisation that has been campaigning for years for legislation which will give legal access to the people of Ireland to the countryside - a right which is freely available in other European countries. Their tagline is thus: ‘dedicated to the preservation of access to our heritage of open mountains and countryside.’ They also support
biodiversity and the upgrading of existing walking routes and trails. South Dublin County Council chose the strategic Development Planning route in regards to this project and went straight to An Bord Pleanála thus bypassing elected councillors. No local landowners, residents associations or business’s were invited to any meetings that have taken place between South Dublin County Council and An Bord Pleanála. Part of a planning process is consultation! What is Coillte’s role in all of this? Is it for the protection of our forests? Cutting down broadleaf trees when they are so scarce in our national forests (1%) doesn’t look like the act of a custodian. Coillte is a State forestry company. It acquires the land and then sells it on often with planning approved. That’s what happened at Rossport, Co Mayo. Coillte bought land for ‘forestry purposes’ and then sold in on to Shell. (source: INM) The construction of a building 70 metres long and built at
an estimated height of 350 metre’s will require a lot of infrastructure. Sewerage, pipelaying, road widening etc., thus opening up the whole area for further development. Is this another example of Developers and South Dublin County Council working hand in glove? Generations of Dubliner’s have reared memories on that hill. This 19 million proposal could be used for so much more instead of destroying one of South Dublin’s most cherished spots! For e.g. building social housing for the people most in need of it. These proposal plans for the Hell Fire site and Massy’s Wood are dubious at best and disasterous at worst. They have no public mandate! Person’s of children and grandchildren, let’s become passionate about this. Do not look back and bemoan on all that was lost because of a lack of foresight by a generation of young people who are caught up in the scenic lifestyle of youtube and the like. Wouldn’t it be better to recall the response that was mustered in preserving this area for future generations.
Let’s fight for what’s right and if our children are less inclined than we are, maybe us taking a stand will give them something to believe in. There has been construction developments in other areas of Dublin and ‘the sense of place’, hasn’t been compromised. Take Killiney Hill with its spectacular views. It is very popular with locals and tourists all the year around. It is unimaginable that this place shouldn’t exist and yet could it have gone the way of progress? The same respect must be given to South Dublin County. If left alone ‘a sense of place’ will be maintained. Do not defile Montpelier Hill! Come and support TAKE A STAND To Save HELL FIRE SITE and MASSY’S WOOD Take a Walk in the Woods Day. Sunday May 28th 2017 @1p.m. Assemble: Hellfire carpark. Additional parking at Stocking Lane or take Dublin Bus 15B For further information contact Elizabeth Davidson 085 838 5391 or Dr. Peadar O’Grady 087 987 9489 for Dublin Rathdown.
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CREATING THE PERFECT BLEND IN SAGGART
The new store is located at the Slade Castle Shopping Centre, in a growing area of the village with easy access and plenty of car parking. Insomnia Coffee Company has become an iconic Irish brand and is well known to coffee lovers across the country offering hot
beverages, sandwiches and snacks. The company which celebrates its 20th Birthday this year, has grown rapidly and now has over 140 stores including 10 stores in the UK. The store itself provides a spacious and cosy seating area, offering customers a
chance to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. It has a fresh and modern feel, ample seating options and décor, perfect for Saggart residents to relax in comfort while visiting the store. Insomnia also runs a popular book swap system, where apart from enjoying a book to
read while having a coffee in store, customers can take a book away and all they have to do is leave a book to stay. The store will also
provide employment for six new members of staff. Harry O’Kelly, CEO of Insomnia Coffee Company “We look forward to
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welcoming customers to our Saggart store and are confident they will enjoy this new addition to the village.”
A spacious and cosy seating area, with a fresh and contemporary feel, so you can comfortably relax and treat yourself with a delicious coffee and cake. Staff members Julian, Elisabeth (store manager), Alice, Monika (Regional Manager) and Michael on the opening day.
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24/7 CRISIS INTERVENTION SERVICES FOR MENTAL HEALTH NEEDED
Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has called on the Government and the Minister for Health to prioritise the roll out of 24 /7 crisis intervention services for all those living with mental health problems.
to introduce these vital supports. Unfortunately people don’t just get sick during working hours or during the working week and supports outside those hours and days are practically nonexistent.
The Sinn Féin TD said that if we are really serious about building an inclusive republic we need to put in place supports and facilities that will provide help all year round for those enduring mental health problems, and not just during office hours as is currently happening.
“Access to mental health services is extremely limited at the best of times but even rarer at the weekends or after 5pm. Families of loved ones experiencing difficulties have little option but to go to the nearest hospital Accident & Emergency where queues and a long wait for medical supports can add further pressure to the individual.
Deputy Seán Crowe said: “Vulnerable citizens with mental health problems need 24/7 crisis intervention services but currently there is no plan or proposals
“Clearly the current haphazard system is not working and needs to
be prioritised for those currently excluded from intervention services because location or lack of staff available. “We need to take action before we inflict lasting damage on children and parents. The State needs a joined-up, family focused approach to better support families dealing with mental health difficulties.
resourced properly. The work being done on mental health by voluntary groups and individuals are saving this country a fortune and more importantly saving lives. “We owe a huge depth of
gratitude to all those who give their time, energy, and commitment to supporting those unfortunate individuals who endure mental health problems. “At the moment there is a huge deficit in our health
system particularly at weekends or after hours on a weekday. “A 24/7 crisis intervention services for those with mental health is needed immediately.”
PLACES FILL FOR SOUTH DUBLIN SUMMER CAMPS
“If we are really serious about an inclusive republic we need to put in place supports and facilities that will provide help to those with mental health problems all year round. “Access and availability of services locally and in our communities needs to be
Children’s nationwide performing arts network Starcamp is reminding parents that places are filling up for its four summer camps which take place in South Dublin during July and August next. Dates and venues where the camps will be held are Firhouse Community College Sports Complex (8-12th August), Knocklyon Community Centre (31st July - 4th August), Rua Red, Tallaght (31st July - 4th August) and Drimnagh Castle Secondary School, Walkinstown (24-28th July).
Now in its 10th year and supported once again by Swords-based banana importers Fyffes, the week-long camps for boys and girls aged 4-12 are designed to teach performance and build confidence amongst those taking part through song, dance, drama and games. Headquartered in Carrigaline, Starcamp will visit almost 200 towns across 32 counties this Summer. Interested parents can obtain further information on their website starcamp.ie
TOWN AND VILLAGE RENEWAL SCHEME Funding available for projects under Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2017
South Dublin County Council is now seeking Expressions of Interest from business, community & other interested groups in towns and villages in the South Dublin administrative area for proposals for support under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2017. Funding is provided through the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs to support the revitalisation of towns and villages to improve the living and working environment of their communities and increase their potential to support increased economic activity into the future. The 2017 scheme is targeted at two categories of Towns/ Villages (with 60% of funding being made available for
category 1 towns): Category 1: Towns and villages with a population of less than 5,000 people. Category 2: Towns with a population of 5001 – 10,000 people.
will be placed on projects that have clear positive economic impacts on the town or village. Further details of Scheme and Expression of Interest Forms are available below for downloading.
Grant Amounts Available
Expressions of Interest
Up to 80% of the total cost of a project under the Scheme will be provided for any individual project. The minimum which is available is €20,000 and the maximum is €100,000. (A higher amount of €200,000 will be considered for a limited number of projects where a robust case demonstrating exceptionally strong economic benefit to the town or village can be made.) Please note that emphasis
Expressions of Interest will proceed to application stage if all eligibility criteria, as set out in the Scheme outline, are met. For application forms & information please visit www.sdcc.ie Completed Expression of Interest forms must be submitted by email to info@ leo.sdublincoco.ie no later than 4pm on Friday 2nd June, 2017.
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ALMOST HALF OF MOTORISTS ENCOUNTER MOTORISTS USING PHONES WHILE DRIVING DAILY
In response to an AA Car Insurance survey of over 3,000 motorists, 46.52% of those surveyed stated that while driving they encounter another motorists using a phone or hand-held device while behind the wheel on a daily basis. Meanwhile, a further 27.72% of those surveyed stated they encountered other road users using their phone while driving on a ‘very regular’ basis, with 11.74% spotting the habit on a ‘somewhat regular’ basis. “In many ways, because it’s something we do on a daily basis, we can all be guilty of underappreciating just how dangerous driving truly
is. That danger, as well as your risk of being involved in a collision or incident, increases significantly if you opt to use a phone while driving,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “While phones make modern life easier in many ways, when you’re behind the wheel driving requires 100% of your attention. No matter how important you think the call or text may be, you’re number one priority should always be the safety of yourself and other road users.”
rising to a fine of up to €2,000 and 4 penalty points in the event of a court conviction. While road safety legislation allows for the use of handsfree kits while driving, the AA is warning motorists that any usage of a phone while driving can affect your concentration.
Currently using a phone or hand-held device while driving can result in a fine of €60 and 2 penalty points,
“While it is legal to take a call using a hands-free device while driving, even this will distract you and make it harder for you to keep your concentration on the task at hand,” Faughnan added. “Even if you have a hands-free kit in your car engaging in any conversation increases your risk of being involved in
summer evenings and get fit. Each registered team plays a 40-minute game every Thursday between 7pm and 9pm – Tallaght Tag will be organising events during the season and everyone is especially invited to get involved in the social side of Tag Rugby. Tag is an over 18’s, non-contact, mixed sport. You don’t have to have played sports before, Tag is easy to pick up and Tallaght RFC have plenty of helping hands at the ready to give you run down of the rules and help you get into the game. Even if you can’t throw a ball, you’re guaranteed a great night every week. Try Tag for Free on May 18th is the perfect opportunity to pick up some of these skills to get you started.
You can register online for the summer league on www.irfutag.ie There is a deposit of €80 per team payable online and the balance is paid on the first week directly to the venue manager. Teams cost are the cheapest in Leinster at just €400 for the 8 week league. Typically, a team has 10-12 players so this works out at less than €5 each per week. You can come join us on May 18th for free and if you like it, we’ll help you register your team and let you know what you need for when the league kicks off. The League officially kicks off at 7pm on Thursday May 25 th and runs for 8 weeks until July 20 th. For more information visit www.tagrugbytallaght.com Find us on www.facebook. com/Tallaghttag
GIVE TAG A TRY WITH TALLAGHT RUGBY CLUB
Give Tag a Try with Tallaght Rugby Club In association with The IRFU and Volkwagen, the summer league of Tag Rugby at Tallaght Rugby Club is about to get underway and we’re looking for people to give it a try this summer at our venue for the second year in a row– Firhouse Community College . Our Try Tag for Free events is being held from 7pm on Thursday May 18th, giving you a great chance to come up and see what all the fuss is about. In recent years Tag Rugby has gathered a huge following with more and more people getting involved in the sport. Apart from being a fun sport to play, there is a big focus on the social side of thing and it’s a great way to meet new people, enjoy the longer
some kind of incident and, at the very least, we would advise drivers using these kits to avoid any lengthy
conversations and only use the device where absolutely necessary.” According to the survey just
5.20% of those surveyed have never encountered another driving using their phone behind the wheel.
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ITIA advises on what to do in case of tyre breakdown as REACT scheme is launched All motorists should take safety precautions when experiencing a tyre breakdown by the roadside. That was the message from the Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) as it launched its REACT (Roadside Emergency Action Concerning Tyres) initiative to ensure tyre fitters and repairers keep safe in carrying out work on our motorways. The ITIA advises the following to motorists in the event of a tyre breakdown on a motorway or national primary route: 1. Park as near to the left--hand edge of the hard shoulder as possible. If you cannot do this, warn other drivers by switching on your hazard warning lights 2. If available, use the roadside phone to contact the Gardai as this lets them know your exact location. Note many insurance policies now come with a breakdown assistance service. 3. Do not place any warning device such as a triangle on the motorway. 4. Wear a high visibility vest, ideally one with sleeves (always carry one in your car).
5. Do not walk on the motorway. Leave your car through the left-hand door and make sure your passengers do the same. Leave animals in the vehicle or, in an emergency, keep them under control on the verge. 6. Await help on the embankment side of the motorway, well behind any crash barrier. 7. Most new vehicles come with an inflator kit instead of a spare wheel - make sure
you know who to use it! Donal Dempsey, the new Chief Executive of the ITIA, commented: “The average motorist needs to be always mindful of the vulnerable position they may find themselves in when they experience a flat tyre on a motorway. “For tyre technicians, working on the roadside is an everyday task, where dangers from passing traffic
are often compounded by adverse weather conditions. The ITIA believes professional training is required to ensure the safety of these technicians.” The REACT initiative involves commercial tyre technicians undergoing a specialist training day, on foot of which they are accredited with a REACT card, which the ITIA would like to see become mandatory for roadside fitters.
A Clondalkin motorist – Patrick Brazil of Woodford Road – had little knowledge of how lucky a visit to his local Texaco retailer would be until news reached him that he would soon be on his way to enjoy all that Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast has to offer. After getting his fill-up of fuel at the Texaco service station on Ninth Lock Road, Patrick entered a ‘Roads to Adventure’ promotion which is running at participating Texaco service stations across Ireland until 7th May 2017. With eight prizes of a holiday to the Amalfi Coast being offered in the competition, each one valued at EUR 3,000, he could not believe his good fortune when told that his was one of the names chosen at random from the many thousands of entries received. Accompanying him on his holiday will be his wife, Mary.
NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Thanks to St. Theresa, St Martin and St Gerard and all the Angels and Saints in gratefulness. 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
ROADS TO ADVENTURE OPEN FOR LUCKY CLONDALKIN MOTORIST
this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Also thanks to St. Martin, St . Theresa, St. Anthony, Saint Pio and the Holy Angels. I am grateful for this gift of life God send to us. 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. Also thanks to St. Martin, St. Theresa, St. Anthony, Saint Pio and the Holy Angels. I am grateful for this gift of life God send
to us. P.W. MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. I also want to thank all the Angels & Saints the Archangels and a special thanks to our Lady of Perpetual Help for a very very special favour I am so grateful to all for this miracle. P.W. As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the last few years. 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. 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.
In your 20s or 30s (or even 40s!) and living with your parents? Or are you a parent who’d like their child to fly the nest? Do you want to move out but need some help?
WOULD EXPERT ADVICE AND FINANCIAL PLANNING BE THE ANSWER TO YOUR PROBLEMS? Brand new RTÉ2 series ‘This Crowded House’ may just be able to help… RTÉ is looking for people to take part in a new series, which explores the not-so-unusual phenomenon of adults living at home with their parents and the options the ‘Boomerang Generation’ really have. “This Crowded House” is a new 4-part series, meeting adults living in the family home and helping them put a plan in place to move out and live independently. Whether they would like to rent their own place, house-share, or are seeking to buy, our participants will get expert help to get them on the right track. With high rents and a shortage of properties to buy, the series will explore the realities of being stuck at home – for both the grown-up child and their parents. Contributors will be given expert advice and the opportunity to explore all the available housing options before they decide where they will live – whether that is buying, renting, house-sharing, or in some cases staying put for a little longer. This new series comes at a time when living at home is the new norm. Nearly 1 in 4 Irish adults between 25 and 34 are still living at home. The effects are also reflected in the number of people “downsizing” their family homes, which have plummeted in the last two years. So whether you’re a parent or a grown-up child in the family home, ‘This Crowded House’ can help! Anyone who wishes to apply can find the application form here: http://www.rte.ie/tv/audienceparticipation/ thiscrowdedhouse.html Email: crowdedhouse@indiepics.ie, or simply call 01 7088162 to find out more.
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