27th May 2019
ABOLISH HOSPITAL PARKING CHARGES
Local T.D. Sean Crowe said he was shocked to learn that visitors to Tallaght University Hospital have paid out a whopping €1.2M to a private company in order to park at the hospital in 2017.
The Dublin South West TD believes it is long past the time to abolish hospital car parking charges for sick patients attending hospitals for treatment. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “When a patient is sick the last thing they or their loved one’s need is a hefty car parking bill, but unfortunately
that is the reality at most hospitals across the State. This situation is extremely unfair and creates stress and strain at a very difficult time. “Charges for car parking at hospitals are an unfair charge on people who are unwell or on people who wish to visit someone that is ill. It is levied on them and in most cases they have no other option but to pay. “In many cases patients have told me that they simply can’t manage the cost of parking on top of other expenses
they face as they battle their illness. “A reply to a Parliamentary Question submitted by my colleague, and Sinn Féin’s health spokesperson, Louise O’Reilly TD, shows that in 2017 a whopping €1.2 million was collected in car parking charges from sick patients and others at Tallaght University Hospital.
“The Irish Cancer Society have pointed out that cancer patients can pay up to €63 a week in car parking charges as they attend hospital to receive their treatment. This
is a serious burden to many, many patients with cancer and other illnesses. I know that St James’ Hospital has a daily rate reaching a maximum of €5 for cancer patients. “Surely the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, should be working with hospitals to phase out car parking charges in the interest of sick patients. This was done by the NHS in Wales and to an extent in Scotland, so there is a blueprint for how this can work in other jurisdictions.
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“We should be making sure the patient experience is as smooth and stress free as possible at hospitals like Tallaght and not charging people outlandish prices for using a necessary service or for being ill.”
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WORKS ON CASTLETYMON LIBRARY ARE UNDERWAY
The turning of the first sod in preparation for the construction of a new state
of the art public library in Castletymon in Tallaght took place recently. Deputy
Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr. Cathal King performed the honours
Johnjo Thrirty, Bernadette Fennell, Cllr Charlie O’Connor, Deputy Mayor Cllr Cathal King, Fr. Ben Moran (Parish Priest), Edel Clancy and Anne Lynch (Chief Architect) Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 HK49. Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and Rathcoole & Saggart News Distributed by: Local Post Co. Printed by: Meath Chronicle Contact Details: Website www.newsgroup.ie
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in the company of County Librarian Bernadette Fennell. The proposed works will include the construction of a state of the art single storey 629 square metre library building. The site of the new library is located on Castletymon Road, adjacent to the junction with Tymon North Gardens in Tallaght. The completed library will be a source of community development, and a significant resource for learning and exploration.
will provide free access to the Internet, free WiFi, and computer classes for all levels and age groups. Support for setting up a business and online information on courses and employment opportunities will also be offered. The library will also feature a small meeting area for book-clubs and community groups. The new library will be a place to meet, learn,
explore and discover. It will provide lifelong learning opportunities in areas such as reading, numeracy, creative writing, health matters, local history, and arts and crafts. Extensive programmes of events for children and families will include school class visits, parent and toddler groups, book festival events, summer reading events and much more.
Work commenced in January 2019 and will take approximately 12 months to complete. During construction, a hoarding to protect the site is in place, along with on-site security and a temporary footpath is provided to give access to local residents. The modern library building will accommodate all age groups and library activities, including adult, young adult, and children’s sections as well as meeting rooms. Books, DVDs, CDs, newspapers and magazines will be available for borrowing, and the library
On 15th June in the Lord Lucan Pub Claudia Gelling is hosting a fundraiser for The Special Day of Flying in July in Newcastle Aerodrome. Claudia said “I have been growing my hair for sometime in preparation for this fundraiser night. I’ll be having a very special guest come to cut my hair which is being donated to Rapunzel Foundation, there will be a raffle on the night with some amazing prizes with all to funds going towards activities and entertainment for the many children with disabilities”. She added “As parents /
families of children with special needs, we don’t get many days of pure acceptance, love and fun. A day of laughter and smiles where the skies above us are filled with pure love, a day that from the ground to the tip top of the sky is filled with acceptance.” Claudia is looking for raffle prizes to help the fundraising. If you think you can contribute to this amazing day , no matter how big or small, please get in contact with Claudia. As the saying goes, every little helps. See ‘Special Day of Flying’ on facebook.
THE SPECIAL DAY OF FLYING FUNDRAISER
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CLEAR FINANCIAL HONOURED WITH PRESTIGIOUS ALL-STAR ACCREDITATION Clear Financial based in Rathcoole recently received the prestigious Business All-Star accreditation at a ceremony in Croke Park. To be named a Business All-Star, Clear Financial had to successfully complete a rigorous assessment process set out by the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF). Clear Financial was one of 68 businesses from all sectors and parts of the country to be named a 2019 Business All-Star.
The AIBF identifies and accredits progressive indigenous Irish businesses that meet the highest standards of verified performance, trust and customer centricity. The Foundation reports that so stringent are the assessment criteria that three in four businesses seeking the accreditation do not progress beyond the first stage. Speaking about receiving the All-star accreditation,
Clear Financial’s Director of Sales and Operations, Ciaran Shanley said, “This is an achievement that we are genuinely delighted about. The qualification process was quite rigorous, and the successful outcome is independent recognition of the hard work and dedication of our entire team.” Clear Financial founder Michael Bradley said, “For any business to be successful, you need to innovate. At Clear Financial, we’re always looking to find new ways to serve our valued clients. We’re proud to have been received this prestigious award in recognition of our hard work.” Clear Financial is an independent financial brokerage based in Rathcoole. It has 13 experienced and qualified financial advisers who work with clients across most of Ireland.
Ciaran Shanley from Clear Financial accepts accreditation from Kapil Khanna
DUBLIN ECONOMIC MONITOR LAUNCH
South Dublin County Council hosted the launch of the Dublin Economic Monitor in Tallaght Stadium recently. The theme of the event was the Business of Sport as a panel of experts explored how sport contributes to all areas of our community including in economic growth and tourism. The 17th edition of the Dublin Economic Monitor showed unemployment was at 4.9 per cent, its lowest rate since the fourth quarter of 2007, with more than 700,000 people in work. A total of 25,000 people were added to the labour force in 2018. The report is compiled by EY-DKM Economic Advisory on behalf of the four Dublin local authorities. South Dublin Chamber was also invited to participate in the launch of the Dublin Economic Monitor. The Business Sustainability programme, which runs in partnership with South Dublin County Council, was showcased at the launch by
the South Dublin Chamber. The Business Sustainability Programme recently won a national award for ‘Local Authority Collaboration’ at the Chambers Awards 2019.
In her presentation at the launch the Chamber President Margaret Considine said” This programme more than any other illustrates the benefits to business when a chamber and local authority combine resources and goodwill to help business grow” The Chamber President said “I would strongly encourage any business in South Dublin County to engage in this programme and see for yourself how the Chamber and County Council can help you”. Chamber CEO Peter
Byrne who attended the launch said: “The Dublin Economic Monitor is an important publication and a go-to source of information on the key topics driving our local and regional economy”. He highlighted the reports analyses and information statistics as being important when we are planning our business growth and development. The CEO welcomed the report’s findings of “ Dublin’s workforce reaching 700,000 for the first time, Dublin’s unemployment rate falling below 5% and the completion of close to 7,000 homes” We are of course concerned at increasing costs and the ongoing shortage of housing.
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FIRHOUSE COMMUNITY COLLEGE – GARDEN OF REMEMBRANCE On Wednesday 15th of May, Minister for Education Joe McHugh T.D. officially opened the Garden of
Remembrance in Firhouse Community College. The garden was first suggested following the sad and
untimely death of two members of staff in October 2016 and January 2017. Ms Maher and her Leaving
BILL ON SCRAMBLERS PASSES TO SECOND STAGE IN DÁIL
John Curran T.D. has expressed his disappointment in the Government and Minister Shane Ross for opposing the Fianna Fáil Bill in the Dáil recently. Aimed at regulating the illegal use of Scrambler Bikes in public areas, the Fianna Fáil Bill which was introduced by the Deputy passed second stage last week in the Dáil with Government TD’s not supporting it and not one Fine Gael TD contributing to the debate. Deputy Curran commented, “The dangerous and illegal use of these bikes is a widespread problem across Dublin and other parts of the country. As they have grown in trend among young people, the fear and havoc scramblers inflict on residential communities has reached crisis point in many areas. Only in recent weeks, I have received calls from anxious parents of small children in Clondalkin who feel that they cannot bring their children to the local green or allow them play in their front gardens.” “There have already been a number of very serious collisions involving quads and scramblers in public space in Dublin causing life-changing injuries. Explaining some of the specific measures from the Bill, Deputy John Curran commented; “The basic truth is that Gardaí
are restricted under current legislation and can neither seize nor effectively police the use of these vehicles. “Under our bill, riding a quad or scrambler bike in an antisocial and dangerous manner will be an offence under Ireland’s public order legislation for the first time. “75% of people that were killed by a scrambler or quad bike between 2014 and 2017 were children and the fact is that in very many cases these vehicles are purchased by someone else and gifted to an underage child. We are looking to include a heavy penalty for those purchasing vehicles for a young person who uses them recklessly. Our bill makes provision for increasing the maximum fine to €5,000 and to subsequently allow Gardaí to seize and destroy a vehicle that has been supplied under these conditions. “It is hard for people who do not live in areas afflicted by this problem to understand the disruption these vehicles cause and the effect they have on people’s quality of life. Fianna Fáil is determined to put an end to the scourge they represent and this Bill is a critically important part of that effort. I would ask colleagues from across all parties to join us in this effort and support our Bill,” ” he concluded.
Certificate Applied class first suggested the idea of a Garden of Remembrance and they began work. The Parents’ Council then enthusiastically embraced the idea and got involved. In the meantime they have worked tirelessly in fundraising and seeking sponsorship. A great number of local businesses and organisations have generously embraced and supported the project.
Without their help and support the garden could not have been developed and completed to such a high standard. What started out as a ‘small project’ took on a life of its own and with the help and enthusiasm of a great many people it is now nearing completion. The local Mens’ Shed Group in Firhouse also worked with the students. They have done so much hard work over the last couple of months, which they would not have got done without their cheerful help. Some of the TY students have also got involved and have done some Trojan work. The end result is, they
believe, a garden that will be a peaceful, quiet and beautiful space where they welcome relatives and friends of staff and students we have lost along the way. We have a long tradition in Firhouse Community College of remembering past students and colleagues and each year, they hold a Mass of Remembrance on the first Monday in February. This date has been deliberately chosen as the start of Spring and the start of a new season and the new life and growth and hope which that brings with it. The school hopes that the garden will be an extension of this fine
tradition. They have chosen a quiet and beautiful corner of the college grounds where nature abounds. It is a place with mature trees, new flower beds, lots of bird song and a resident robin who has overseen all the work undertaken. Our hope now is that it will become a place where you can come and spend some time in quiet thought and reminisce over the good times we have all shared. They hope that it will be a place where you will find comfort and peace and where you know that your loved one is remembered and valued.
Chairperson of Firhouse Community College Parents Council Natalie Ward, Minister for Education Joe McHugh T.D. and Principal Senan Nolan Pic credit to MJ Photography
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UN INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FAMILIES CELEBRATION
Tusla - Child and Family Agency recently marked the International Day of Families with an event in Tallaght Library that showcased the significant advances that have been made locally in family support services, and the commendable family support work of a number of local organisations. It was part of Tusla National Child and Family Support
Week. The event was a collaborative effort between Tusla, Child and Family Support Network, and the Drugs Task Force to celebrate collaboration and family support on the International Day of Families. The morning provided an opportunity for both families and professionals
to learn about the support services which are available to them locally. Topics covered included cybersafety tips for children, from CyberSafeIreland, assisting families who suffer from drug addiction, from JADD (Jobstown Assisting Drug Dependency), and the use of Meitheal, Tusla’s national early intervention practice model, to support
ROUND TOWERS GAA U13’S 2019 SPONSORSHIP
Members of the Round Towers GAA U13’s would like to thank Hanley’s SuperValu Rowlagh for their generous sponsorship of training footballs for our Under 13 Boys for the 2019 season. Their generosity is really appreciated. Michelle from Hanley’s SuperValu Rowlagh is pictured presenting the footballs to Round Tower Under 13 Footballers: Charlie Kennedy, Matthew Behan, Matthew Broderick, Colm Morris, Mark Donnan and Cillian Downey
children and families facing difficulties and helping them work towards positive outcomes.
Caroline Sheehan, Senior PPFS (Prevention, Partnership and Family Support) manager for Dublin South West/Kildare/ West Wicklow, Tusla, commented, “In Dublin South West, Kildare and West Wicklow, we believe in the power of community. We know that when we work together, we can all help to build brighter futures for our children.” Caroline continued, “While preparing for National Child and
Family Support Week, I was so struck by the strength of the relationships that have been built between Tusla, services in the community, and some of the parents and young people who have availed of these supports. It is very clear that everyone involved is committed to working together to build brighter futures for the kids in our area. By investing in our communities and partner agencies, I can see we are truly investing in brighter futures for the children in our area.” Family support organisations that were
represented at the event included: KICK (Kickboxing to Inspire & Challenge Kids), WASP who are dedicated to working with all members of the family to re build selfawareness, self-esteem, building on family strengths and helping them to regain a sense of wellbeing and self-worth, JADD (Jobstown Assisting Drug Dependency), SWAN family support centre, CyberSafeIreland, Barnardos, Foroige, YoDA (Youth Drug and Alcohol Service) and National Family Support Network. For more information visit https://www.tusla.ie.
Supporting Families: Collaboration in Action (Pictured left to right) Shane Hamilton, JADD; Sarah Cummins, Barnardos; Louise O’Hagan, CyberSafeIreland; Mary O’Brien, Tusla; Lisa Nolan, SWAN Family Support Organisation; Joy O’Shaughnessy, KICK and SDCP; Karl Flynn, KICK and SDCP; Maire Redmond, WASP.
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LEIXLIP FESTIVAL LINE-UP ANNOUNCED
Wild Youth, Hermitage Green and The Riptide Movement are among an exciting line-up of headline acts announced for Leixlip Festival this June Bank Holiday Weekend. The spectacular open air music festival, staged in the Court Yard Hotel, offers four days of outstanding entertainment with the best of national and local musical talent, including Monday night’s hugely popular main act, Smash Hits. 2019 marks the 30th anniversary of the longstanding community festival in Leixlip, and the Court Yard Hotel’s 15th live music festival, recently feted as Ireland’s ‘bestkept top festival secret’! New to Leixlip Festival this year, having sold-out their first Irish tour, including a headline at The Olympia, Wild Youth open the festival on the ‘Rock the Yard’ main stage on Friday, 31st May. The Irish four piece is enjoying a breakthrough year with their hit single ‘Can’t Move On’, following earlier charttoppers ‘All or Nothing’ and ‘Lose Control’. Their melodic brand of pop-rock, full of electronic touches, has seen them support artists such as Niall Horan, The Script, Zara Larsson and Kodaline, playing across Ireland and the UK. Saturday, 1st June welcomes Hermitage Green back to Leixlip, following a sold-out international tour covering Ireland, the UK, the Middle East, Australia and the US. The Limerick act boasts a unique arrangement of instruments including the bodhrán, djembe, rhythmic guitar and banjo, delivering a truly original Irish music sound and memorable hits like Quicksand, Not Your Lover, and Save Your Soul. The band has a new EP of 6 progressive sonic masterpieces, Gold & Rust, made with producer Matt Lawrence, known for his Grammy award-winning work with acts such as Adele, Amy Winehouse and Mumford & Sons. Local Legends! Also returning to Leixlip Festival on Sunday 2nd June, by popular
demand, are phenomenal live artists, The Riptide Movement, with their soaring guitar rock that’s drawn comparisons to U2, Kings of Leon, The Clash and Oasis. The four lifelong friends from Lucan are practically locals, with their huge following all set to descend on this year’s Leixlip Festival Sunday night showcase. The Dublin based modern rock quartet toured extensively last year on the back of critically acclaimed releases ‘All Works Out’, ‘Elephant in the Room’ and ‘Changeling’. Festival goers will enjoy these and more, including the band’s three part web series ‘Plastic Oceans’ released last November and their latest new EP ‘I’ll be There’ released just this month. Bank Holiday Monday in the Court Yard Hotel just would not be the same without Smash Hits! The unique tribute band to the golden era of 90s dance, pop and R’n’B will close out the open air festival’s weekend line-up with rip-roaring feel-good boogie and the best of classic 90s tracks. Covering great artists like Vanilla Ice, MC Hammer, Take That, The Spice Girls, Snap and Prodigy, Smash Hits’ energetic set of massive chart hits revives that hoppin’ time of old-skool nightclub DJs, all-night raves and packed dancefloors. With support acts still to be announced, tickets for the eagerly awaited open air music weekend are now on sale, with Day Tickets at €10 each plus booking fee, and a Weekend Ticket at just €30, offering 4 days for the price of 3. Over a dozen amazing live music acts, top bands and DJs are appearing, with main stage music action from Friday evening, 31st May, until Monday night’s closing gig with the inimitable Smash Hits, which kicks off at 9.00pm. Tickets are available on Eventbrite and via the Court Yard Hotel website, and will be sold at the gate each day, subject to availability.
CHILDREN’S HOSPICE WEEK 2019
Laura Lynn service user Olivia Murphy (2) is pictured with Gavin Cook, Paddy Gilmore, Cormac Kildea, Stefano Lunazzi and Michael Comiskey of St Mary’s Boys National School Booterstown during Ireland AM live broadcast from LauraLynn for National Children’s Hospice Week, taking place to raise funds for LauraLynn Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice. LauraLynn cares for seriously ill children and their families from across Ireland and must raise €4.3 million to operate this year. To support Children’s Hospice Week phone 1 890 99 89 19 or visit www.lauralynn.ie. Picture Andres Poveda. Raise funds for Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice by placing a Novena with Newsgroup. All funds raised go straight to Laura Lynn. See www.newsgroup.ie for more information.
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PLAYGROUND AT BANCROFT PARK OFFICIALLY OPENS
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Deputy Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Cathal King, officially opened the playground at Bancroft Park. Speaking at the event the Deputy Mayor said,
SDCPPN PLENARY MEETING NOTICE South Dublin County Public Participation Network (SDCPPN) will be holding their Plenary meeting in the Green Isle Hotel, Clondalkin on Thursday 30th May from 7pm. The meeting provides an opportunity for community groups in South Dublin to catch up on the activities of the PPN over the last 6 months, to help shape the next 6 months and to elect representatives from the community groups to a number of committee positions. Community groups will know the PPN as an independent umbrella group that brings the community group
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“The concepts for change came from playground users and ideas which have been tried and tested during the delivery of the playspace programme across the county. Many of the changes
incorporate natural play into the playground. Natural play has been proven to have benefits for children in terms of increasing well-being, developing imagination and allowing children to assess risk and develop
their coping abilities.” He also paid tribute to the local community for their support of the popular playground and of Bancroft Park and the work of the Council staff in managing the project and maintaining the playground.
voice into policy making committees in the County and will be familiar with their emails notifying groups of available funding opportunities. The SDCPPN will be presenting their new initiative *’Linkage Online’ *that will allow groups to contribute their views to the work of the PPN representatives even if they can’t attend a Linkage Group meeting. The SDCPPN are proposing the development of a *Well Being Vision* for the County that will be based entirely on the feedback received from community groups.
Deputy Mayor Cllr Cathal King taking a spin on some of the equipment at Bancroft Park Playspace
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STARCAMP 2019 LAUNCH WAS SPELLBINDING
Be under no illusion, the official launch of STARCAMP 2019 was pure magic! Keith Barry was on hand at the weekend to remind children of the Starcamp ethos, “Believe in yourself and you can achieve anything!” As STARCAMP kicks off their biggest and best Summer camp line up to date, they have teamed up with the renowned mind magician to send out a national reminder to parents everywhere that the use of the imagination, courage and self-esteem are incredibly positive tools for children for life. “Children simply
need to play, pretend, dream and be happy in a safe environment, where they are encouraged and praised” said Aideen O’ Grady, Starcamp Director. “Starcamp is for everyone, not just the born performers” Keith Barry says. With over 40% boys now in attendance, it truly is a camp with broad appeal and its’ benefits are reaching boys and girls everywhere. Parents who had concerns about their child enjoying it have been mesmerized by the impact. The growth and number of return children annually prove this, along with the
thousands of testimonials received over the past 12 years. STARCAMP 2019, as always will include singing, hip-hop, acting, arts & crafts, confidence building, news-reporting, camp games, superheroes, star olympics, surprises galore – but there will be a special focus this year on Magic, the use of the imagination and…. Comedy! Staff at Starcamp HQ work all year round to ensure the most wondrous experience possible for all who attend. A little insight into this years’ line up shows Toy Story 4, The Lion King, Mary Poppins and David Walliams’ Gangsta’ Granny for the older kids.
for advancing programs. For a limited time, they offer an instalment option whereby €20 will secure your place. Over 50 Venues in Dublin for Summer 2019! BOOK YOUR LIMITED PLACE NOW AT www.Starcamp.ie OR CALL 021-4377900.
Starcamp was a memorable winner on Dragon’s Den, has won numerous awards and is widely recognised for leading the way in what it does. With a number of camps already booked out, don’t delay in securing your place. Every child receives a Starcamp t-shirt, cert and lots more! Starcamp will run in over 220 towns nationwide for a week at a time. The camp runs for 5 days from 9:30 – 2:30pm and children aged 4-12 will be sub divided into their own age groups
LIN 50 DUB S VENUE
We have camps in
Tallaght, Palmerstown, Lucan, Knocklyon, Firhouse, Citywest & Adamstown
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SDCC COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAMME
A total of 122 applications for South Dublin County Council’s Community Grants programme have been awarded over €175,000 at the monthly meeting. These
include a wide range of groups, such as Clondalkin Rugby Club, The Web Project, Knockmitten United FC, the Dublin/ Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team, South
AOIBHEANN’S PINK TIE CHARITY
Dublin Taekwondo and the Women Together Tallaght Network. Applications were sought under the Council’s Community Grants Programme 2019 between Monday 11 March to Friday, 5 April 2019.
The Community Grants Programme is aimed at providing financial assistance to Community and Voluntary Groups who are responding to locally identified needs within their communities. Community Grant Applications are assessed by the Community Department under the following criteria; Impact on local community and local community involvement, Availability/ existence of other groups doing the same work or duplication of activities, Proven
track record and ability of the group to deliver the project, Provision of clear and accurate project costings, Projects/works demonstrating good value for money, Existing funds available to the group/ funds in hand and availability of other funding sources and Projects or works demonstrating sustainability. Colm Ward, Director of Housing, Social and Community Development, said, “This funding will provide a real boost to community groups and projects across South Dublin County. The wide range of activities and groups being awarded shows the strength of community spirit in our County.”
FOROIGE FEST 2019
More than 80 employees from the biopharmaceutical company AbbVie, which has sites in Dublin, Cork and Sligo, took part in a 300 kilometre charity cycle earlier this year to raise funds for charity. Among the organisations benefiting was the national children’s cancer charity Aoibheann’s Pink Tie. Set up in 2010 by Mick Rochford and Jimmy Norman after the tragic loss of Jimmy’s daughter Aoibheann to cancer aged just 8 years, the charity was formed in her memory to remedy the lack of support for other children and their families going through treatment. Pictured at the presentation of a cheque for €13,333.50 at the company’s commercial offices in Dublin, were from L-R: Mick Rochford (Aoibheann’s Pink Tie); Robert Love (AbbVie) and Paul Flood (AbbVie).
Foroige Fest in Rua Red were Cllr.Charlie O’Connor, Mayor Mark Ward and Andy Leeson,Foroige
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MINDMINDR APP IS NOW AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD
A new iPhone and Android app which provides contact details and information on local mental health services has been launched by South Dublin County Council.
Mindmindr 2019 was developed in conjunction with the HSE and gives details of support services across a wide range of areas including depression, addiction, crisis pregnancy and suicide prevention.
The target audience is anyone who needs or knows someone who needs mental health supports in their life. Emergency contact details for national services are listed and services are mapped to enable the user to find the services themselves. A previous iteration of the app had been launched in 2013. The initiative spearheaded by
was the
current Deputy Mayor of South Dublin County, Cllr Cathal King. Speaking at the launch, Cllr King said, “I want to thank Chief Executive Danny McLoughlin and his team in South Dublin County Council for the work they’ve done in developing mindmindr 2019 and the HSE for all the support they have given since the original version in 2013.” He continued, “There is
Danny McLoughlin SDCC Chief Executive, Deputy Mayor Cllr Cathal King and Tommy Kavanagh SDCC IT Dept
The Kingswood Lodge FULL A LA CARTE MENU Weekdays
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Saturday
from 1pm
unfortunately still a stigma out there around the whole issue of mental health and asking for help. While there are a lot of great local groups providing support and advice, people
often don’t know they are there or how they can get in touch with them. I thought it was very important to have something in the palm of your hand that highlights these groups, the great
work they do and how anyone can get in touch with those groups when they need them.” The app can be downloaded from the iTunes Store and is also available on Android.
SDCC FIRST DUBLIN LOCAL AUTHORITY TO APPROVE A CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION PLAN
Elected members at the monthly meeting of South Dublin County Council (SDCC) have voted to approve the Council’s Draft Climate Change Action Plan. The Dublin Region is facing significant risks and challenges related to climate change. In response to this, each of the four Dublin Local Authorities has worked with Codema - Dublin’s Energy Agency and the Dublin Metropolitan CARO office on developing individual Draft Climate Change Action Plans that outline how each local authority will act to prevent and adapt to the effects of climate change. The Plans identify the main climate risks facing Dublin and outline both the Councils’ and the region’s current levels of greenhouse gas emissions. They also outline all the actions that are ongoing or planned within the Councils and these are grouped under five key areas - Energy and Buildings, Transport, Flood Resilience, Nature-Based Solutions and Resource Management. The public consultation for each of the four Draft Climate Change Action Plans
was held through a series of events and workshops between 11 February and 25 March this year. SDCC received a total of 73 submissions during this period. There were 114 actions in South Dublin County Council’s Draft Climate Change Action Plan; a further 17 have been added to the final document as a result of public submissions whilst another eight have been amended. Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council, said, “The level and detail of submissions received during the consultation period reflect widespread public concern on the urgent need to respond to climate change. South Dublin County Council is determined to do all within its power to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This involves working on our own buildings and operations, whilst also influencing the wider community, other public bodies and businesses. It further requires making the South Dublin County Council area more adaptive to the impacts of climate change.”
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AMI RETURNS €2.5M TO CLIENTS FROM IT RECYCLING SERVICES AMI based in Rathcoole, Ireland’s leading secure IT recycling company, recently announced that clients received €2.5M from the resale of their old IT equipment in 2018.
The funds were generated through the recycling, refurbishment and resale of 85,000 PCs and laptops, collected from AMI’s clients as part of their IT retirement process. This represents a 270% increase on the number of devices resold compared to 2017. In total the company processed 17% more items in 2018 than in 2017, amounting to 435,000 items including laptops, PCs, USB sticks, hard drives, smartphones, and tablets. AMI works with clients such as data centres, banks, blue-chip corporations and government departments to securely dispose of their old and unwanted IT equipment. As part of the process, the company refurbishes the IT equipment collected from these companies and resells it through its retail arm, RefreshedByUs. AMI, which is one of only four companies in the world to hold the highest ADISA accreditation for excellence in IT disposal, uses advanced equipment and Blancco data erasure software to ensure that all databearing equipment is cleansed to the most stringent global
standards before resale. Philip McMichael, managing director, AMI, said: “9 out of 10 of our customers don’t pay AMI a fee for the secure processing of their old and unwanted IT equipment, as the revenue we return to them from the refurbished and resold equipment covers the cost of our services. We are delighted that we increased returns to clients by 25% last year while also ensuring their old IT equipment was refurbished using ironclad processes. We provide a world-class IT disposal service to our clients that not only minimises the risk of potential data breaches
DODDER VALLEY LITTER MUGS €15 MILLION LOAN TO PROVIDE MAY CLEAN UP MORE HOMES
South Dublin County Council (SDCC) is to raise loans to a limit of €15m from the Housing Finance Agency plc to provide governmentbacked mortgages to firsttime buyers as part of the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan scheme. Elected members in SDCC approved raising the €15 million loan at the monthly council meeting recently. The Council previously sanctioned €10m of this allocation at the 2018 June Council Meeting, bringing the overall total sought by SDCC to €25 million for the scheme.
Pictured Philip McMichael, CEO, AMI
and meets GDPR requirements, but also ensures a good revenue return on data-bearing items.” Philip continued: “Companies of every size are starting to realise that there is more to secure IT disposal than meeting regulatory requirements and we are here to help them unlock the hidden value in their old IT equipment. For items that require disposal, a zero-landfill result was achieved in 2018, 100% of disposals were handled in an environmentally responsible way.”
To date, the Council has approved 113 applications
and applications are still being accepted under the scheme. The Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan scheme was launched by the government in February last year to help people buy their first home. The scheme is open to people with an annual income not exceeding €50,000 and couples with a combined income that doesn’t exceed €75,000. Applicants must show that they have received two insufficient finance offers from banks or building societies. They also must have at least 10% of the value of a home in a deposit. For more information see www.sdcc.ie.
Another successful clean up by Dodder Valley Litter Mugs with help from Tallaght RFC members. 7 volunteers collected 20 plus bags of rubbish and many large items.
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SCOIL CHRONAIN SHOWS SUPPORT FOR SAM BAILEY
The children in Scoil Chrónáin in Rathcoole showing their support for student Sam and his campaign ‘Give A Damn For Sam’ with a message for the Minister for Health Simon Harris T.D. Sam’s Mum Fiona Bailey commented “We would like to say a massive, massive thank you to Sorch McCabe for organising this video, you are amazing, thank you ... and thank you to the filming guys, Paul, Farhad and Harry for giving their time and expertise so generously, they were so brilliant! A big thanks to Glenn also. Go raibh míle maith agat do Siobhán, an príomhoide; agus na múinteoirí, Deirdre agus Selina; Aideen, Natasha agus na daoine iontacha sa Scoil Chrónáin - go raibh maith agaibh!” The kids were absolutely FANTASTIC, such energy, love and kindness! They certainly #GIVEADAMNFORSAM. The video featuring Sam and friends can be viewed on www.facebook.com/fiona.bailey.54584982.
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E-SCOOTERS POTENTIAL FOR DUBLIN STALLED HOW TO BUILD A STRONG PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP In our last column we looked at the “do’s” of building a strong relationship so this time we are focusing on the “don’ts” and the best way to deal with issues your child might be having in school.
Don’t Miss key appointments • Parent-teacher meetings and school meetings are highly important for building a healthy relationship. Likewise, they help you to assist in your child’s learning. Give your child mixed messages • If your child has been punished for something or been asked to do something by their teacher, don’t contradict them. Even if you disagree, it is better to have a discussion with the teacher afterwards and create a plan from there. If your child receives mixed messages they may believe you have given them permission to go against the teacher’s will. Try to catch your child’s teacher for a discussion unannounced • Always arrange an appointment when you’d like to speak with your child’s teacher. By arriving unannounced you may disrupt their plans or teaching. You’re also unlikely to get a complete answer if your child’s teacher hasn’t had time to prepare. Addressing or preventing most or all of these concerns is good communication. While it sounds like a cliché, good communication really does solve many problems before they even present themselves and teachers appreciate it. Good communication allows a mutual trust to develop, leading to a positive relationship between yourself and your child’s teacher. The parent-teacher partnerships that you form when your child is in an early childhood education program will teach you things that will benefit you and your child for the rest of the time they are in school. While it takes a little extra time, the benefits are worth it. At Kip McGrath, all our students work closely on their individual programme with their professionally qualified tutor – with feedback given every week.
The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport has failed to introduce a proper regulatory framework for the safe use of e-scooters on our city’s streets, according to Deputy John Curran TD. Fianna Fáil’s TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran was speaking after receiving new information through a parliamentary question from Minister Shane Ross in relation to this matter, he said; “I am calling on Minister Shane Ross to take urgent action to deal with the legal loophole that appears to be stalling the introduction of a proper regulatory framework for the safe use of these devices on our City’s streets. Currently e-scooters are considered to be mechanically propelled vehicles, therefore users of these vehicles must have insurance, road tax and a driving licence, with penalties under road traffic laws (including fixed charge notices, penalty points, fines and possible seizure of the vehicle) for not being in compliance with these requirements. Yet in the same reply the Minister states that it is currently not possible to tax or insure e-scooters. This contradiction in the legislation is ridiculous and needs urgent attention from Government. “The use of e-scooters is becoming increasingly popular across Dublin, especially among young people and this is to be welcomed. They offer a green alternative to commuters making short journeys around the City and suburbs and have the potential to reduce congestion. I see parents using them to do the school drop off while their children scoot or cycle beside them, this has to be encouraged.
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“The Government’s reaction has been to look the other way and pretend it isn’t happening. There is no doubt that these devices have the potential to make a very positive
impact on transport in the city and we need a plan. “These devices have the potential to serve the same purpose in our city as they do in many other major European cities, Minister Ross said that he has asked
the Road Safety Authority to carry out research into how e-scooters are regulated in other countries, I will continue to follow up with the Minister in relation to this matter”, concluded Deputy Curran.
GRIFFITH COLLEGE LAW PROGRAMME
Students from Coláiste de hIde, Tallaght, took part in the annual Griffith College Law Programme as part of their Transition Year experience. Staff and students were welcomed to the national institution’s campus where they were presented with their completion certificates from Head of the Faculty of Law at Griffith, Karen Sutton
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MARGARET HACKETT RELAUNCHES THE SLIMMING WORLD GROUP IN FIRHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE
On the 27th of May, Margaret Hackett relaunches the Slimming World group in Firhouse Community Centre. Margaret, who has recently become a Slimming World consultant will host 5:30pm and 7:30pm sessions.
Margaret began her weightloss journey on 17th April 2018 in a local Slimming World group. By December 23rd she had reached target after losing an incredible 4 stone in 8 months! Margaret commented “I achieved this simply by changing the way I eat. Slimming World is NOT A DIET, it’s a lifestyle change. No food is banned, there is no calorie counting and little or no weighing & measuring. You can still enjoy all your favourite foods and even your few drinks”.
of tea or coffee. There’s no judgement or humiliation and your information is completely confidential. Change your life while eating the foods you love!!” Monday evenings at 5:30pm and 7:30pm at Firhouse Community Centre, Ballycullen Drive, Dublin 24. For more information see www.slimmingworld.ie.
The new consultant added “Before I joined Slimming World I was very unhappy. I was conscious of my size and hated buying new clothes. I was always tired and unable to do much exercise. My confidence was at an all-time low! When I joined Slimming World I was nervous but excited at the same time. I wanted to change my life. I couldn’t believe how many people were there hoping to do the same thing. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. The support & encouragement from the group every week is amazing - I learn something new every week. That 1 1/2 hours every Tuesday morning is something I feel I owe to myself.”
Margaret before her weightloss
GROUP RELAUNCHING 27TH MAY Margaret Hackett
Slimming World Firhouse Firhouse Community & Leisure Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Monday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 087 6161439
In the first week, Margaret had a 4 lb loss and it spurred her on to have another great week of food optimising The amount of food you can eat is limitless and I never feel hungry with three healthy meals a day and snacking on “free food “. Margaret concluded “For the first time in years I actually like my body! I do aqua aerobics twice a week and I swim once a week. I have also joined the gym. I now exercise every day and I’m looking forward to completing the Women’s Mini Marathon in June. If you are inspired by my story, come along and see what Slimming World is all about. There’ll be a friendly smile waiting for you at the door and a cup
Miriam O’Shea Slimming World St. Annes’s GAA Club Bohernabreena, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Mornings 9:30am & 11:30am. Tuesday Evenings: 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 087 9703016. Pamela Slimming World Old Bawn The Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Monday Evenings: 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tuesday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 086 1231774
Sandra Maxwell Slimming World St. Mark’s GAA Club McGee Park, Cookstown Road, Tallaght,Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday mornings: 9:30am. Wednesday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 1484669 Pauline Slimming World Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel, 1st Floor, Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Thursday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am. Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 7704751
Margaret after her amazing weightloss
Sharon Daly Slimming World Citywest Scoil Aoife (Opposite LIDL) Fortunestown Lane, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 1402870 Sandra Maxwell Slimming World Maldron Hotel Tallaght Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Friday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am Mobile: 085 1484669 Ailish Slimming World Knocklyon Iona Centre (Beside Knocklyon Parish) Knocklyon, Dublin 16. Times: Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 087 7445909
Christine Murphy Slimming World Tallaght Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Saturday Mornings: 7:30am (New session), 9.00 am & 11.00am Mobile: 086 088 5142 Tracey Quinn Slimming World Tymon North & Balrothery St. Joseph’s Special School, Balrothery, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday Evenings at 5.30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1477748
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MOTORING LIFE WITH ALL-NEW MERCEDES-BENZ B-CLASS IS By Breda Corrigan ‘TOP CLASS’ Now in its third generation, the all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class MPV has evolved in the best possible way. When it was launched in Europe in 2005, the original B-Class possessed relatively plain styling, along with run-of-the-mill petrol and diesel-powered engines. The second generation (launched in 2011) addressed many of the original car’s imperfections, while adding a welcome dose of style to the mix too. Sharper Styling; However, the all-new 2019 MercedesBenz B-Class boasts even sharper exterior styling, a high quality and technologically advanced interior, excellent cabin and cargo space, along with new engine options too. Based on the same underpinnings as the wonderful A-Class, the new B-Class offers more room throughout the cabin, while the rear seats offer luxury-saloon levels of space. Enhanced Dimensions; The continuous and relentless rise in popularity of the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) hasn’t stopped Mercedes-Benz from investing heavily in an all-new version of the B-Class MPV. The new B-Class is longer (4,419mm) and wider (2,020mm) than before, which creates a cabin large enough to seat five adults in comfort. The boot has a capacity of 455-litres with the rear seats in place, or up to 1,530-litres with the rear seats folded. However, versatility will be improved even further when the option of a sliding rear seat is added later in 2019. Engines & Transmissions; The new B-Class is offered with either petrol, or diesel engine options. The only petrol engine available is an all-new 1.33-litre in two states of tune - 136bhp (badged B180) or 163bhp (badged B200), while two turbo-diesel engines complete the line-up, and are badged B180d
(1.5-litre, with 116bhp), B200d (2.0-litre, with 150bhp), or B220d (2.0-litre, with 190bhp). All diesel engines are fitted with an 8-speed dual-clutch (automatic) gearbox as standard, while the petrol engine is available in 6-speed manual, or 8-speed automatic guise. Trim Levels; Three specifications are available in the new B-Class – Style, Progressive, and AMG-Line. Standard specification across the entire range includes Active Lane Keep Assist, comfort seats, heated front seats, split-folding rear seats, MBUX Multimedia System, reversing camera, black roof liner, Artico man-made leather & fabric interior, 16” alloy wheels, chrome-plated shoulderline trim, remote central locking, electric windows, electrically operated & heated exterior door mirrors, an EASY-PACK (electric) Tailgate, along with a whole host of comfort, convenience and safety systems. The new B-Class is equipped with intelligent assistance systems and functions to protect occupants even more effectively while on the move and help take the strain out of driving. They can identify dangers automatically and provide corresponding warnings, or even intervene, with corrective actions. This means that all occupants are always in the best of hands. Test Car; My test car was a new Mercedes-Benz B180 (1.33-litre petrol) AMG-Line automatic, finished in striking Indium Silver metallic paintwork. AMG-Line specification benefits from exclusive features such as AMG sports pedals, floor mats with AMG inscription, 18” AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels (aerodynamically optimised), AMG bodystyling kit, 3-spoke multi-function sports steering wheel (flat-bottomed) in Nappa leather, Light & Sight Pack, chrome-plated
beltline & windowline trim, diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome, Artico leather & Dinamica microfible interior, Direct Steer system, front brake calipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering, LED high performance headlights, and lowered comfort suspension. Thanks to 136bhp and 200Nm of torque, my test car was able to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in just 9.0-seconds, leading to a top speed of 212km/h (where permitted). Fuel consumption as low as 5.4l/100km is possible on a combined driving cycle, while annual road tax is just €270. Opt for a diesel powered B-Class, and the combined fuel consumption figure can drop to as low as 3.7l/100km, while attracting annual road tax as low as €190. Excellent Driving Dynamics; On the road, the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class feels more dynamic, more sporty, more comfortable, and safer than ever before. The car sets a new benchmark in safe and comfortable everyday driving and is worthy of Mercedes-Benz’ claim that this is the ‘family car re-invented’. Motorway refinement is impressive even
with the standard 18” alloy wheels fitted, while country roads prove just how nimble the new B-Class really is. Acceleration is smooth, and gear selection is swift & precise, while the car is blessed with terrific stopping power too. The, stateof-the-art, MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) Infotainment System is a joy to use and is extremely beneficial in allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road, while issuing commands to the cars infotainment system. Pricing & Verdict; The all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class is priced from €32,745 ex-works (B180 Style 1.33-litre petrol, 6-speed manual), while my range-topping test car specification is priced from €38,987 ex-works. Optional extras fitted to my test car included longitudinal-grain light aluminium trim (€240), metallic paint (€945), a panoramic sliding sunroof (€1,834) and a Smartphone Connectivity package (€640). With so much space, prestige, and technology on offer, the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class really is a very tempting, premium-brand, MPV proposition indeed.
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URGENT INSPECTION OF CRAG AVENUE APARTMENTS NEEDED Sinn Féin Dublin Mid West TD has called for ‘an urgent inspection of the recently advertised apartments in Crag Avenue Industrial Park by both South Dublin Council Council and the Dublin Fire Brigade’.
The call was made on foot of complaints by Deputy Ó Broin to the Councils planning department.
Deputy Ó Broin said: “Recently 8 apartments on Crag Avenue, Clondalkin were advertised on Daft. ie. The apartments are located in an industrial estate in what appears to be a converted commercial building. The add suggests that the unit could hold up to 16 tenants despite having just
one small kitchen and toilet. “There is no record of any chance of use planning permission on South Dublin County Council’s web site. “I have a real concern that this premises has neither planning permission nor the legally required building certificates. If this is the case then it is a criminal offence to allow the building
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to be occupied. “I have made formal complaints to both the Director of Planning in South Dublin County Council and Daft.ie. To Daft.ie credit the have removed the listing from their web site. “I have also made direct contact with he named
individuals on the Daft. ie site responsible for the property outlining my concerns and asking him to provide me with planning permission.
these properties are let out only then to be found in breach of planning and building regulations resulting in tenants at risk of homelessness.
The individual has replied saying he fully compliant with he law. “It would be extremely unfortunate if
I hope both South Dublin County Council and the Dublin Fire Service deal with the issue speedily.
UP TO 11,000 NEW HOMES TO BE DELIVERED AT THE CLONBURRIS SDZ
A new community planned for South Dublin County on the lands that make up the Clonburris Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) has been approved by An Bord Pleanála, subject to modifications. The land, comprising approximately 280 hectares, is located between the established communities of Lucan, Clondalkin and Liffey Valley.
(L-R) Tallaght man Brendan Hyland with Clare Cryan and Darragh Greene pictured at the announcement of Tesco Ireland’s two-year sporting sponsorship of Swim Ireland, the National Governing Body (NGB) for swimming, water polo, and diving in Ireland. Under the new agreement, Tesco pledges to support Swim Ireland, its athletes and their families, as well as encourage active participation in swimming throughout the country. Pic Credit ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
The lands have been designated by the Government as a Major Urban Housing Development Site and could provide homes for a population of over 21,000. South Dublin County Council is confident that Clonburris will have a central role to play in addressing the demand for new housing in Dublin. The scale and potential of the lands, together with existing unique selling points, including the Grand Canal, Griffeen Valley Park and the Kildare rail
line, offer an excellent starting point for the development of a forward thinking, innovative and vibrant community in South Dublin County. The approved Planning Scheme will include the provision of three primary and three post-primary schools. Approximately 72% of the housing will be located within 500 metres of schools and approximately 98% of residents will be able to access a bus stop within 400 metres or train station within 800 metres, thereby significantly reducing dependence on the private car. The lands will be serviced by two train stations at Kishoge and Clondalkin/ Fonthill, approximately a 15-minute train journey from Dublin City Centre. Three Regional Roads, including the Outer Ring Road, connect the lands to the N4 and N7 National Routes.
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LOCAL COMPANIES WIN AT ALL-IRELAND BUSINESS AWARDS
Ballymount-based forklift and warehouse equipment company Linde Material Handling won the Large
Business Award 2019 at the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundation’s annual All-Ireland Business
SDCC SUMMER PROJECT FUNDING Funding of nearly €30,000 was approved at South Dublin County Council’s (SDCC) monthly meeting for a range of group and projects. Summer projects are aimed at providing a supervised programme of recreational and educational activities for young people over a consecutive number of weeks during the summer period. Emphasis is placed on community involvement and the development of resources and groups within localities. A wide range of activities is encouraged such as arts and crafts, sports, educational trips, drama, films, games and more. The use of available community facilities (schools, community centres, halls, open
spaces) is also encouraged and facilitated by the Council, where possible.
SDCC assists Summer Projects in the County area through direct grant support, organised activities, staff support and assistance, while Crosscare provides insurance cover. In 2019, it is estimated that the grant supports outlined below will contribute towards approximately 6,000 young people in the County participating in summer projects. Some of the projects and funding provided included Tallaght Travellers Summer Project - €2,000, Adamstown Summer Camp - €1,000, Holy Spirit Summer Project - €1,000 and Citywise Education €2,000.
Summit and awards.
Clondalkin-based waste and recycling company Greyhound were also honoured on the day when they were named winner of the Community Focused Business 2019 award. The All-Ireland Business Foundation is responsible for overseeing the All-Ireland Business Summit and All-Ireland Business awards, ongoing All-Star accreditation, Thought Leader awards and promoting peer dialogue among members.
All Ireland Business Summit Paul Mulhall, Ruairi Holyoake and Naresh Moodley Greyhound
Companies which already hold Business All-Star Accreditation from the AllIreland Business Foundation compete in the finals of the All-Ireland Business Awards in a range of categories. For more information about the All-Ireland Business Foundation see businessallstars.ie
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SWIMMING POOL SOD TURNED
On the 20th of May Mayor of South Dublin County Council (SDCC), Councillor Mark Ward, turned the ceremonial sod for the construction of a new €13 million Lucan Swimming Pool. Mayor Ward noted “a key objective of SDCC is to promote health, wellbeing, recreation and activity to improve quality of life for citizens of the County”.
facilities provided by the Council and in particular benefit the Lucan area”. Chief Executive Daniel McLoughlin outlined the facilities that will be available in the new public swimming pool building including “a 25 metre long, six lane, 13 metre wide pool, as well as a 13 metre long, eight metre wide, multiuse pool.”
He added “the construction of Lucan Swimming Pool will add to the existing excellent sport and recreation
PJ McLoughlin and Sons Limited, who have been awarded the contract for the construction of Lucan
Swimming Pool stated that “the building will follow the Nearly Zero Energy Building directive (EPBD) in pursuing the highest level of energy conservation, both in design and running costs.” It is envisaged that construction works for the project will take 20 months to complete. The development will be funded by a grant of €3.8 million from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. South Dublin County Council will contribute €9.8 million to the capital cost.
County Architect Eddie Conroy, TD John Curran, Cllr William Lavelle, Cllr Ed O’Brien, Danny McLoughlin SDCC Chief Executive, Cllr Mark Ward (Mayor of South Dublin County Council), TD Franced Fitzgerald, Cllr Danny O’Brien, Cllr Vicki Casserly with son Tom, Cllr Emer Higgins, Cllr Ruth Nolan and Martin and son Ian McLoughlin from PJ McLoughlin.
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NOVENAS FOR LAURA LYNN
MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. H.B MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. P.M MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great
favour witness received. G.L 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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. A.Mc.C MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. Anon 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.
GETTING NOSTALGIC WITH NEWSGROUP
Never known to fail. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. S.B MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. J.B PRAYER FOR HEALING Heavenly Father, I call on you right now in a very special way. It is through your power that I was created. Every breath I take, every morning that I wake, and every moment of every hour, I live under your power. Father, I ask you now to touch me with that same power. For if you created me from nothing you can certainly recreate me. Fill me with the healing power of your spirit. Cast out anything that should not be in me. Mend what is broken. Root out any damaged cells. Open any blocked arteries or veins and rebuild any damaged areas. Remove all inflammation and cleanse any infection. Let the warmth of your healing pass through my body to make new any unhealthy areas so that my body will function the way you created it to function. And Father, restore me to full health in mind and body so that I may serve you the rest of my life. I ask this through Christ Our Lord Amen. L.R
As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the years. Going forward, we are delighted to support Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice. LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice provides palliative care to children with life-limiting conditions and their families, from the point of diagnosis to end of life, and throughout bereavement. It costs €5.2million to keep LauraLynn’s Children’s Hospice open, €3.5million of which must be generated each year through fundraised income. Since opening in 2011, LauraLynn has cared for more than 325 children and their families and provided more than 265,000 hours of short stay care provided to children in LauraLynn Hospice. For further information please visit lauralynn.ie. If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque (Minimum of €10 per prayer) made out to Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to: NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. If you require any further information please call 01 45 19 000 or email or email info@newsgroup.ie.
Pictured above are Students and teachers at the presentation of VTOS Certificates in Deansrath Community College on 29 March 1995. Image appeared in the South West Express incorporating the Tallaght News and South City Express.
Photograph above of Ms. Kathleen Kavanagh Animal Aid Clondalkin with assistants and dogs dated 9 January 1995. Image appeared in the South West Express incorporating the Tallaght News and South City Express.
We are getting all nostalgic here at Newsgroup, in recent editions we have been featuring images which ran in our old newspaper South West Express incorporating the Tallaght News and South City Express.
Do you have a old picture with a caption? If you would like us to publish your pictures in our upcoming editions please email to admin@newsgroup.ie
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