Lucan News 12.11.18 by Newsgroup

12th November 2018

THE GROWING FIGURES OF HOMELESSNESS Over 600 people in South Dublin County Council area are currently registered as homeless.

Figures obtained by local South Dublin County Cllr Charlie O’Connor reveal that there was an increase of over 65% in the number of families that registered as homeless in the 12 months from September 2017 to September this year. During the same period there was an increase of almost 40% in the total number of people registered as homeless across

the county. O’Connor, who is also a general election candidate in the area said, “The number of people presenting as homeless and living without stable accommodation is increasing, that is a fact. It’s difficult, even close to impossible to see how of this crisis is being addressed by Government when every single piece of hard evidence shows us that the crisis in housing is worsening day by day. “Last month, SDCC confirmed to me that there are now over 7,000 people on the

social housing waiting list in South Dublin. As the Chief Executive has rightfully stated in his response to my query this week; *“Housing supply is the key solution” *but stock is severely limited. “How can the demand for housing possibly be met when the scale of development in affordable and public housing that’s required is simply not happening?

He added, “It maddens me that after 7 years in Government this crisis is getting worse while knowing how much it is

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affecting people’s lives and the mental impact it’s having on ordinary people.

People dying on damp, cold streets in Dublin without shelter cannot be let become a normal aspect of life in Ireland. “There tends to be a visible face of homelessness but the reality is that there are even greater numbers relying on others to just about manage to stay off our streets as we head into winter. These are the families that we are bound to know but that are without a home; the 300 odd families in South Dublin that desperately need support from Government to end their struggle as homeless,” concluded Cllr O’Connor.

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INCREASE IN HOSPITAL TROLLEY CRISIS NUMBERS PREDICTED

Seán Crowe T.D. has said that all indicators suggest that the trolley crisis in our hospitals is set to multiple as winter takes hold and that the amount of patients forced to wait on trolleys this year is set to reach a record 100,000. The local TD said that it is clear that the Minister for Health doesn’t fully grasp the trolley crisis, particularly if he doesn’t see that the trolley crisis and the nursing recruitment and retention crisis are interlinked. Crowe’s comments come after the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) released figures showing that over 9,000 patients were forced to wait on trolleys and chairs for hospital beds in the month of October. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “The trolley crisis has been continued to escalate under the Minister for Health. Last year saw the largest number of patients on trolleys in recorded history and this year we will unfortunately

pass the 100,000 mark. “The INMO have released figures that show over 9,000 patients were forced to wait on trolleys and chairs for hospital beds in the month of October. Unprecedented numbers combined with no new initiatives will inevitably mean the crisis will continue and escalate. “It is clear that the current Minister for Health doesn’t fully grasp the trolley crisis, as he doesn’t seem to understand that the trolley crisis and the nursing recruitment and retention crisis are interlinked. “Issues of recruitment and retention of staff have plagued the health service in recent years. Bed capacity, including a failure to reopen closed beds, inadequate step down facilities, the roll out of primary and community care, are all impacting on the trolley crisis as well. “Surely if the Minister cannot see that the trolley crisis and the nursing recruitment and retention crisis are interlinked then

he doesn’t really have any understanding of the trolley crisis that is impacting so negatively on patients and staff in our hospitals. “In January this year, the Oireachtas passed a motion advocating solutions to resolve the trolley crisis, but

the government have so far failed to make any attempt to implement the radical proposals.“Unfortunately it looks like again like new records of patients on chair and trolley numbers with the numbers rising to over 100,000 this year.”

MAGPIES NEST OPENS IN TALLAGHT

Pictured at the official opening of the Trustus “Magpies Nest” shop in Tallaght Village Green were Mick Duff, June Rodgers and Charlie O’Connor

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SOUTH DUBLIN LIBRARIES HOME ENERGY SAVING KITS

South Dublin Libraries are now offering householders an opportunity to borrow a Home Energy Saving Kit. The Mayor of South Dublin County Council Cllr Mark Ward launched the new service on October 30th. The Home Energy Saving Kit was developed by Codema, Dublin’s Energy Agency. The kit aims to help householders make sense of the energy they use every day. The items in the

toolkits address three key areas of energy use - space heating, hot water and electricity consumption. Each kit contains six practical tools that help householders understand how their home uses energy and ways to find possible savings.

F r i d g e / F r e e z e r thermometer. This allows you to adjust the temperature in your fridge

and freezer to save energy. Temperature and humidity meter. This identifies the temperature and humidity levels in every room in your house. Radiator key. To bleed your radiators and make them heat more efficiently. Thermal Leak Detector. This measures the temperature of your walls, floors, windows and ceilings to identify air leaks and draughts or insufficient insulation and glazing.

LUGGWOODS HALLOWEEN EXPRESS A HUGE HIT

Luggwoods, a family attraction in Saggart famous for its Christmas Winter wonderland experience, is this year running a Halloween themed event. Pictured Cllr Emer Higgins enoying the Luggwoods Experience with Elaine O’Reilly

Plug-In Energy Monitor. With this tool you can see how much energy the appliances in your home use and calculate their running costs. You can measure the water flow rate of your taps and adjust to save water and money on heating it. Speaking at the launch

Mayor Mark Ward highlighted the benefits of the service.

It is time for neighbours, communities and services in the South County Dublin Council area to put in place measures to ensure that we are ready to meet the challenges of extreme weather during the winter ahead, according to Dublin South West Independent Minister Katherine Zappone. Minister Zappone’s call to action coincides with the launch of the 2018-2019 ‘Winter Ready’ campaign by the Government.

Council, communities and neighbours all have a role to play in ensuring it is a safe winter for everyone. The new awareness campaign outlines practical steps which can be taken. It advises people of the need to save phone numbers of older relatives and neighbours so they can be contacted in severe weather, to ensure everyone has enough food stored in the event of storms or blizzards and to have a list of numbers for emergency services.

‘The kit will allow you to carry out a mini energy audit in your home. Its suggestions can reduce your home’s carbon monoxide emissions and establish easy and important ways

to save energy. This will help you save money while also supporting the environment.’ The Home Energy Saving Kit is now available to borrow free of charge from Lucan, Ballyroan and Tallaght libraries for a two week period.

GET WINTER READY

The Minister says by preparing now we can protect our local communities from the worse impact of the bad weather. Minister Zappone said: “Government services, South Dublin County

Everyone should also heed and act on warnings from Met Eireann, Dublin Fire Brigade and the County Council. Through preparation and by knowing

our neighbours we can help avoid tragedy. The 2018-19 campaign outlines practical steps. It is being made available through www. winterready.ie. However as many people do not access the internet on a daily basis or are unable to do so during a power-cut it is vital that public offices, garda stations and schools in our communities are also used to get the advice out. We are lucky in Terenure, Temepleogue, Tallaght and Citywest that we have some of the strongest community networks in the Country. In the coming weeks those networks will be an important lifeline for those who live alone or may be stranded as the weather deteriorates.”

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LOCAL RESPONSE TO NETFLIX RELEASE IS OVERWHELMING

Minister Katherine Zappone says she has been overwhelmed by local messages of support following the release of the Marriage Equality documentary ‘The 34th’ on Netflix. The documentary by CoCo Television sets out how the High Court Action by Minister Zappone and her late spouse Ann Louise Gilligan was the spark which led to the success of the equality referendum. Both campaigned on the doorsteps throughout Tallaght, Citywest, Terenure and Templeogue to secure the YES Vote locally.

Speaking following the release of the documentary onto the streaming service, Minister Zappone said: “Our friends, neighbours and local supporters always had our back. They encouraged us to bring our fight for equality to the highest courts in the land and years later were just as steadfast as we campaigned on the doorsteps of Dublin South West. The release of ‘The 34th’ on to Netflix is a tribute to them and all

who voted Yes. We must never tire of telling the story of how our families, communities and our country came to this point. It is a message which is equally important today in an uncertain world

and offers hope to those whose rights continued to be trampled on. I would encourage people of all ages to take sometime in the coming weeks to watch ‘The 34th’ and be reminded what we achieved together in our local communities.”

Minister Katherine Zappone on set of ‘The 34th’ a documentary on Ireland’s journey to Marriage Equality which is now on Netflix. Minister Zappone is pictured with Linda Cullen (left) and Vanessa Gildea (right) of CoCo Television.

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TALLAGHT’S PROFESSIONAL DRY CLEANERS NOW OPEN Professional Dry Cleaning Laundry and Ironing Company in Lidl Retail Park, Main Road, Tallaght have

now opened a state of the art dry cleaners. It is owned and run by Rathfarnham man Peter Kennedy who has over

Professional Dry Cleaners located in Tallaght Village beside Lidl

30 years experience in his field. The Tallaght premises can offer its customers all their dry cleaning and ironing services in store and on the same day. With ultra modern and brand new equipment which are eco friendly. They also specialise in wedding dress cleaning. They look forward to serving the people of Tallaght. Open 7 days: Monday- Wednesday 9am – 7pm, Thursday – Friday 9am – 9pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday 10m – 6pm. Special Offers include; 3 x 2 piece suits cleaned and get one free. 5 shirts washed, dried and ironed for €10 plus 1 tie dry cleaned for free. And curtain specials also available.

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HIGGINS ENCOURAGES PEOPLE TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON CLOCK CHANGE

Cllr. Emer Higgins has encouraged people to have their say on whether or not the clocks should change twice a year. The Department of Justice is conducting a public

consultation on the issue, in response to the European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker’s announcement in August that the EU would recommend member states

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor PC Living in Tallaght ...Working for Tallaght

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mobile 087 2982079 THE FIANNA FAIL TEAM IN DUBLIN SOUTH WEST John Lahart TD, Councillors Paul Foley, Emma Murphy, Charlie O’Connor

end the practice of changing clocks twice a year.

“We recently took a step backwards in time, so now while the clock change is fresh in people’s minds it’s the perfect opportunity to ask if we should continue the practice,” said Cllr. Emer Higgins. Daylight saving time was introduced during World War One as an energy saving initiative and is still a widely adopted practice across Europe and the

United States. It was also viewed as a safety measure. “Personally I hate when the clocks go back at this time of the year. I feel it makes the nights very suddenly longer and am aware of the negative impact it can have on some people’s mental health and the loneliness some people, especially those who live alone, experience during winter. I’d love to do away with the seasonal change and stick to the time we’re at in summer, but only if that’s practical.

My biggest concern from a practicality perspective is; would we end up creating a time-difference between the Republic and Northern Ireland. That’s what could happen if we stopped changing our clocks and the United Kingdom decided to continue changing theirs. Already, before Brexit becomes a reality, the UK has indicated that it won’t revisit its clock changing practices, so that could create a difficulty for us, if Ireland did.

Farmers and those who walk and cycle to work may have other concerns also, which is why it’s so important that people use this consultation to have their say,” explained Cllr. Emer Higgins. “Minister Charlie Flanagan is conducting a public consultation on the issue so now is your chance to have your say. Simply log on to Justice.ie and complete the quick survey it shouldn’t take more than 60 seconds,” concluded Cllr. Emer Higgins.

HAYES NOT CONTESTING 2019 EUROPEAN ELECTIONS

Recently Brian Hayes MEP announced he will not be contesting next year’s European Parliament elections. Hayes added “My decision brings to an end to my role in active front line politics, something that has been a constant in my life over the last 25 years. There comes a time for everyone in politics to leave the stage - for me that time is now. Being elected to public office is a great honour. I have never taken it for granted. I remain deeply grateful to the trust placed in me by the public in each of the eight elections I have contested. It has been a privilege to serve Fine

Gael as a Councillor, Senator, TD, Minister and MEP. I am taking this decision for family and professional reasons. There is life after politics. I gave a promise to the people of Dublin that if elected in 2014 that I would serve a full five-year term in the European Parliament. I stand by that commitment and therefore will serve out my mandate.”

across the European Parliament. I am especially conscious of my responsibility as an Irish MEP, given what is at stake for Ireland, to continue in my role until the Brexit outcome is known. At the end of my mandate in Parliament, I will be taking up a new role as CEO of the Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI).

The MEP continued “Under the Article 50 procedure, the European Parliament has the power to ratify the final Brexit deal. All Irish MEPs must continue to make the case for Ireland in their respective political groups

I am looking forward to working with the BPFI team and the Financial Services industry as a whole, to help reposition the sector as a crucial driver for real investment and growth in Ireland’s future.”

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SOUTH DUBLIN DADS CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM PAID PATERNITY

Cllr Emer Higgins has said that South Dublin Dads are continuing to benefit from the Government’s paid paternity benefit scheme. In Dublin alone over 5,000 dads have availed of the scheme so far. The Cllr. said: “The current rate of Paternity Benefit is €240 per week. Following Budget 2019, this will increase to €245 per week from the week beginning 25 March 2019. “This will afford new Dads the opportunity to be more involved at the earliest stages of a child’s development, which is important for the whole

family. “It is great to hear that there has been good take up of the scheme so far, with over 51,000 paternity benefits being awarded since the scheme came in on the 1st September 2016. This includes some 4,100 self-employed people. My colleague the Minister for Social Protection, Regina Doherty, has informed me that here in Dublin over 5,000 Dads and parents have availed of the benefit in that time.

be clear and simple. They will require a Public Service Card in order to apply, and if they are an employee, they need to give four weeks’ notice to their employer to qualify for the accompanying Paternity Leave. “Fathers who fulfil the PRSI requirements are eligible for Paternity Benefit when they take two weeks of Paternity Leave at any time within the first 26 weeks of their child’s life, or following adoption.

“I am encouraging prospective fathers to sign up for Paternity Benefit and I think they will find the application process to

“All the information on how to apply for Paternity Leave, and how to get your Public Service Card, is available at www.welfare.

ie/paternitybenefit. “Paid paternity leave was a key commitment in Fine Gael’s manifesto in advance of the last election as part of our overall efforts to support parents at work and make childcare more affordable. Fine Gael in Government is now using the resources from our strong economy to deliver on that commitment,” continued Higgins. Minister Doherty said: “The Government recognises the importance of providing support for parents of young children and is very much aware that the first year in a child’s life is of

particular importance. This is very much emphasised in the programme for Government.

“I was particularly pleased to secure a new Parental Benefit scheme which will allow both parents to access additional paid Parental Leave in the first year of

their child’s life. This means that both parents will have access to an additional two weeks each of Parental Benefit, which will also be paid at the rate of €245 per week.” It is expected that this scheme will be introduced in late 2019 after the necessary legislation is in place.

SOUTH DUBLIN ON ICE RETURN WELCOMED Local Cllr Charlie O’Connor, the Chairman of the Economic, Enterprise and Tourism Development SPC, has welcomed confirmation that South Dublin on Ice will return to the grounds of the Tallaght Stadium for the 2018/2019 Christmas and New Year season in conjunction with Dublin Outdoors, South Dublin County Council and Tallaght Stadium. Charlie O’Connor said that he has noted the announcement by the Council that “the community can expect to enjoy a fantastic

skating experience this Christmas at Tallaght Stadium with friends and family from Friday 16th November to Sunday 20th January”. The statement added that “the facility will have a huge skating surface to skate on and there will be discos on ice and other activities.” According to Charlie O’Connor he is getting positive reaction to the news given the success of the project last year and he hopes that South Dublin on Ice will again be to the benefit of the community this year.

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LENGTHY PSYCHOLOGIST APPOINTMENT LISTS

New information released to Fianna Fáil reveals that 854 people in the HSE Area CHO 7 were waiting for a primary care psychology appointment at the end of August. The HSE figures show that of the 854 people living West of the City on the waiting list, 547 of these were children and young people. Deputy John Curran said, “These figures are very worrying and should act as a wake-up call for Ministers Harris, Daly and indeed all

of their Cabinet colleagues. These lengthy waits are not only completely unacceptable from a medical point of view; they are causing immense stress and anxiety to the children and families trapped on the list.

“This data is yet another illustration of the persistent crisis in the provision of mental health services for children. 72 of the children in HSE Area CHO 7 are waiting for

over a year for treatment and 135 of them over 6 months. “While it is not uncommon in today’s health services for more than a quarter of those on a waiting list to be on it for more than a year, this does not make it right. Early intervention is critical when dealing with

susceptible children and teenagers. The government and the HSE have an obligation to do better by these children. “It is critical that sustained efforts are made to address these waiting lists. Such deficits in mental health services for children cannot be allowed to continue.”

TALLAGHT VOLUNTEERS ATTEND NATIONAL FORÓIGE CONFERENCE

OPENING OF LYME DISEASE CENTRE WELCOMED

Seán Crowe T.D. has welcomed the news that a new centre is to open this month for the treatment of Lyme disease in the Mater Hospital. The TD said that he hoped the new centre will bring enhanced skills and awareness, including speedier diagnosis. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread to humans by infected ticks and the amount of cases is increasing every year in Ireland. “The Health Service Executive estimates that between 100 and 200 new cases are emerging every year, but many experts believe that this could be even higher with only the chronic cases usually turning up in hospitals. “Once the

tick bites, a distinctive rash usually appears followed by flu like symptoms, it then spreads throughout the body. If left untreated it can lead to fever, muscle pain, joint swelling and temporary paralysis. “Most people can and do make a full recovery in couple of days if diagnosed early and if the antibiotic prescribed is given in time. Unfortunately it is the ones who are misdiagnosed that are left with life debilitating symptoms similar to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). That is why it is so important that medical professionals are upskilled and greater expertise is brought in to address this growing threat. “While welcoming the opening

of the new centre in the Mater Hospital I am hoping that this development will lead to greater awareness combined with enhanced skills, including speedier and more accurate diagnosis for those who have Lyme disease. “No fewer than four groups have been established in Ireland to advocate for patients with Lyme disease in recent years and I have met many people who suffer from the effects of the disease on protests. “The opening of the new centre in the Mater Hospital is down to their campaigning, advocacy work and collectively they need to be congratulated for their tireless work in highlighting the dangers and challenges surrounding Lyme disease.”

Foróige volunteers from around Ireland gathered in the Hotel kilkenny for Foróige’s annual volunteer conference. Wayne Travers, Anthony Clinton, Martina Deans, Ruth Whelan, & James Dempsey attended from Tallaght. Foróige has over 5,500 volunteers working in its 600 youth clubs, 160 projects and programmes such as theAldi Foróige Youth Citizenship Programme; Leadership for Life; Be Healthy Be Happy; and Entrepreneurship.

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NEW APPRENTICESHIP PROPOSALS LAUNCHED BY FF

John Lahart TD has said that his party Fianna Fail’s new proposals to modernise the apprenticeship system in Ireland are a valuable opportunity for people and important for the sustainability of the economy. The motion, which was debated in Dáil Éireann recently, is based on a new policy document that includes a number of proposals such as increasing the number of women taking part in apprenticeships, increasing apprenticeships in public organisations and technology companies, and opening regional

apprenticeship offices. The TD said, “It’s very much assumed when preparing to finish secondary school that traditional third level education is the only option worth considering to develop skills for the future but that’s necessarily the case. “Apprenticeships may not be a viable option for everyone, but they do need to be opened up to more people. School leavers across Dublin should be better guided towards apprenticeships as a valuable alternative. “The

fact that such poor emphasis is placed on encouraging apprenticeships means Ireland is lagging far behind internationally in terms of the scale and diversity of apprenticeships currently offered here. But that can change under our proposals. “We have a real problem with how few apprentices are women. Government might be pleased to declare that the number of female apprentices has risen five-fold since 2016 but numbers are disgracefully imbalanced. In fact, just 2% of apprentices in Ireland

FIBA CONFIRM PROMOTION TO DIVISION B FOR IRELAND UNDER 18 MEN’S TEAM

There was big news from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) recently as it was confirmed that the Ireland Under 18 men’s team have been promoted back to the FIBA Under 18 European Championship Division B for 2019. The news comes after a successful summer for the squad in Division C, which saw them scoop a bronze medal back in July. Gold medal winners from that tournament, Kosovo, have also been promoted, while silver medalists Cyprus have decided to continue to play in Division C for another year. Ireland spent just one year in Division C, following relegation

in 2017. Speaking about the promotion, Ireland U18 men’s head coach Paul Kelleher stated: “This is great news. Last year we believed we had put ourselves in a position to gain promotion and now we have confirmation of that opportunity. I know the players returning from last year’s program will be overjoyed to be playing at the next level of competition, which was our goal last summer. The preparations will now intensify some more and I believe this group will step up to the challenge. It’s an exciting time and we are all looking forward to it.”

this year are women. We need to examine why this is so and look at increasing the bursary which is currently in place. “It means developing a Dublin regional apprenticeship office so that people can drop in to learn about the

opportunities which are available to them. It means ensuring that large multinational companies based in our Capital such as Facebook, Amazon, and Google offer apprenticeships here as they do elsewhere. “To

date, the Government have only managed to meet a quarter of its modest targets. With a change in approach, we can harness the true worth of wellfunctioning traineeships and apprenticeships,” he concluded.

CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC REQUIRES SPECIALIST RESPONSE John Curran T.D. has said the surge in supply and demand for illicit crack cocaine in the capital has reached new proportions and requires a specialist response from the State. Specialist drug treatment centre, Coolmine, have confirmed recently that there has been an increase in the number of admissions to its Dublin based services for problem crack cocaine use. The drug has now overtaken heroin in its prevalence among those seeking support. Curran said, “Crack cocaine is relatively cheap, easily sourced on streets, quickly cooked, highly addictive, and its shipments from abroad have flooded our vibrant city. The consequences of crack cocaine use and its illegal sale in our communities are deeply troubling. “It’s quite obvious in recent months that there has been shift in drug trends in Ireland - strewn among the discarded used needles are pipes and tinfoil. Its growing popularity has led Dublin’s crack market to swiftly expand. “Gardaí operating within community policing and drug units are under increasing pressure to respond to an

unprecedented degree in distribution of a drug that is rapidly destroying once healthy individuals and tearing apart once close knit families. “For every single person suffering in addiction there is merciless dealer enabling their habit for their profit. “Any successful attempt to gain control of the spread of this drug is hinged on the Gardaí’s ability to ruthlessly target and disrupt the suppliers and dealers of crack cocaine. The resources allocated to the Garda Drugs Unit have been drained over the past decade despite the fact that drug use and the associated crime have steadily risen over the same period. “Crack is a complex drug and those on crack cocaine need psychosocial intervention and support. The full restoration of 2008 level funding for local, community based drugs services and local youth organisations is paramount. “This is a scourge never before seen in Ireland. An altogether new, multifaceted approach is required. One that incorporates the work of the Prison Service, the HSE, the Department of Social Protection and An Garda Síochana,” he concluded.

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OPERATION TRANSFORMATION 2019

Operation Transformation (OT) will hit the TV screens

again at the start of January and groups around

the country will be looking to promote community

ICS LAUNCH MOVEMBER

To mark Movember which is prostate cancer awareness month, the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) has urged all men over 50 to take a half an hour to have a conversation with their doctor about prostate cancer. Each year over 3,300 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in Ireland which means that approximately 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.

However, with improvements in treatments the 5 year survival rate for prostate cancer is now over 90%. Kevin O’Hagan, Cancer Prevention Manager with the Irish Cancer Society, said, “Historically, there was a tendency to do a PSA test on anyone who was concerned about prostate cancer or displaying some symptoms. However, new guidelines from the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has recommended

that PSA tests are not used as a general screening for prostate cancer, but to confirm a diagnosis or to dictate treatment.“

“Rather than insisting on a test, we would strongly urge all men over 50 to simply take some time to have a conversation with their GP. Men over 50 are more at risk of getting the disease and even if they are asymptomatic, it is worth having that chat, as early prostate cancer often does not have any symptoms at all.” “We know that sometimes men are slow to go to their doctor if they are worried. But prostate cancer is very treatable and the earlier it is detected, the better. This is why men need to be having yearly check-ups, particularly if they have a family history of prostate cancer.” Since 2008, over 100,000 people have got involved and contributed to the

Movember cause. Movember Ireland has funded over 30 prostate cancer initiatives, in partnership with the ICS, ranging from financial grants for patients and their families to ground-breaking research that has united the prostate cancer research community to improve outcomes and quality of life for the 1 in 7 Irish men who will get prostate cancer in their lifetime. Sign up now to support men’s health, visit Movember.com. To speak to a cancer nurse on any aspect of cancer contact the Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700, email cancernurseline@ irishcancer.ie or drop into one of 13 Daffodil Centres in hospitals nationwide. For information on Daffodil Centre locations and opening times email daffodilcentreinfo@ irishcancer.ie. For more information log onto www. cancer.ie

fitness and wellbeing. As in previous years South Dublin County Sports Partnership (SDCSP) is once again supporting groups to get involved. They are offering: FREE volunteer walk leader training (2.5 hrs), FREE PR materials (banners/ posters) and even and FREE weighing scales for those

who wish to offer a weight loss measurement element to their programme.

On top of this South Dublin County Sports Partnership are looking to encourage and support sports clubs to be inventive and look at OT as an opportunity to develop closer community involvement. Can your club

offer a free weekly session for new members or past members? Or maybe for the less active population groups in your community? If so perhaps South Dublin County Sports Partnership can help. Organisations interesting to register in order to get involved should e-mail details to info@ sdcsp.ie

U-15 Div 4 Final Lucan Sarsfields v Setanta

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FUNDING JUVENILE ARTHRITIS RESEARCH COMMITMENT

CMRF Crumlin focuses funding raised from the public to initiatives, equipment and research that aim to save children’s lives, and on improving the quality of life for children who live with chronic illness, like juvenile arthritis and is again funding research into this illness with the National Children’s Research Centre.

Professor Gerry Wilson is a lead investigator at the NCRC, Professor of Rheumatology and Consultant Rheumatologist, and has been leading a team at UCD trying to figure out why the immune system becomes out of balance and how that causes rheumatic disease. Dr. Emma Dorris, a senior researcher on his team, said “If we know why this happens, we may be able to stop it from happening or help get the immune system back into a healthy balance. Understanding the biology of a disease, and figuring out why some people get it and others do not, can help us achieve earlier diagnosis, better treatment

and prevent consequences of delayed or ineffective treatment. As a scientist, working together with the medical team, patients and carers helps us to provide better support, prognosis, treatment and management in a way that considers the direct and indirect needs of patients and helps to reduce long-term disease burden. I’m researching this area to help improve the quality of life for both the children and their families living with these conditions.”

Dr. Emma Doris explained the health complexities for children with rheumatic disease, such as arthritis – “People living with rare conditions may share a number of symptoms with other disorders. This may hinder or delay diagnosis and lead to more severe disease. This diagnostic delay, which is often even more pronounced in rare diseases affecting multiple organs or systems such as those that we study, can result in missed treatment opportunities. This causes

worse outcome and more severe disease than if it was treated more promptly. If we understand the biology of these diseases, we can develop tests that will tell doctors what a disease is, or isn’t. It might also help to tell a doctor which medicine will and will not work.” Children’s rheumatology is an immature but rapidly evolving field of research. Recent advancements in technology, and the incorporation of these advancements into research and clinical workflows, has resulted in an increased discovery rate of genes that may cause disease and in improved diagnosis of rare paediatric disease. For example, the research group at the NCRC, along with colleagues in the University of Limerick and University of Leeds, have discovered a previously unknown mutation in a gene that acts as a master controller of inflammation. This mutation may cause the rare disease mucocutaneous ulceration syndrome in

some people. CMRF Crumlin raises funds from the public to make

this research possible and is very grateful for everyone who believes in prioritizing

children’s health and supporting their campaigns. www.cmrf.org

CHRISTMAS JUMPER DAY 2018 Anna Geary is announced as the ‘Face of Christmas Jumper Day’ for CMRF Crumlin. The Christmas Jumper Day will launch in primary schools across Ireland from November, and aims to raise €50,000 for some of Ireland’s sickest children. CMRF Crumlin is encouraging teachers, students and parents to arrange Christmas Jumper Days in their schools and to share photos on social media, to tag @cmrf_ crumlin and use the hashtags #ChristmasJumperDay and #WhateverItTakes. Christmas Jumper Day packs can be sent out to schools looking to participate in the nationwide fundraiser. Interested participants can email Sinead Nolan on snolan@ cmrf.org to order their packs.

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FINE GAEL CANDIDATE FOR DUBLIN SOUTH WEST

Fine Gael has announced that Ellen O’Malley Dunlop is joining Colm Brophy T.D.on the Party’s General Election ticket in Dublin South West. Ms O’Malley Dunlop, who is Chair of the National Women’s Council of Ireland and prior to that spent ten years as CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, was added to the constituency ticket at a recent meeting of Fine Gael’s Executive Council.

Speaking recently, Ms O’Malley Dunlop said: “I am delighted to be announced as a Fine Gael General Election candidate for Dublin South West and I look forward to the challenge. “For more than ten years as CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, I have influenced positive change on complex issues such as sexual and gender based violence and the rights of victims of crime. If elected I will continue to work for legislative reform for women’s and victims’ rights, and I want to be a champion for a reformed

provision of supports for our older population. “I also want Ireland to have a robust 21st century mental health service and I have a range of suggestions to improve services including the expansion of counselling and psychotherapy services. “I look forward to getting out and about in the constituency to meet the people of Dublin South West and discuss my proposals with them.” Deputy Colm Brophy added: “I am delighted to have Ellen on board as my running mate in Dublin South West. “Fine Gael in Government has put the right policies in place to help our economy and society develop in the wake of the economic crash and as a result we have

grown our support in Dublin South West over recent years. “It is important as a society that we continue to foster a spirit of inclusiveness and equality, which is why I am very pleased that Ellen will be my running mate in Dublin South West. I know she will add a lot to the Fine Gael ticket here with her immense experience of public service. “Securing two seats in Dublin South West will enable us to further that work so that we can continue to improve people’s standards of living and access to new opportunities. We will be working together with that goal and objective clearly in mind.”

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NEW STAMPS MARK CENTENARY OF ARMISTICE DAY

An Post has issued two stamps to commemorate the centenary of Armistice Day, the official end of World War I (WWI) in which it is estimated that more than 50,000 Irish soldiers died. The stamps and First Day Cover (FDC) were designed by leading design house Red and Grey Design. Both the stamps, and a specially designed First Day Cover (FDC) envelope, are available from main post offices from November 8th,

from the stamp counters at Dublin’s GPO or online at www.irishstamps.ie. Beautiful lines of poetry are featured on both stamps which are also embossed with the formal date and time of the end of the war, 11.11.11. One features the poignant closing lines of To my Daughter Betty, the Gift of God by Thomas Kettle on a green background. The second, lines from the memorable wartime poem In Flanders Fields by

John McCrae on a striking red background. Both are produced as International stamps (€1.50) and will carry the lines of Kettle and McCrae around the globe as well as into the collections of specialist philatelists and all those with an interest in the so called ‘Great War’. WWI lasted four years, was fought on multiple battle fronts on land, sea and air across continents. It was a harsh and bloody conflict resulting in approximately nine million soldiers’ dead and 21 million wounded. The war ended formally on November 11, 1918, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. The armistice agreement or truce was signed between

Britain, France and Germany in a railroad carriage in Compiégne, a French forest

near to the warfront. Marking the official end of the war, Armistice Day also

known as Remembrance Day and Veterans Day, is marked each year on November 11.

TALLAGHT YOUTH LEADER AND ZAPPONE DISCUSS FUTURE SERVICES

TICKETS WERE TOUTED FOR HUNDREDS OF EURO

U2 fans were stuck in a moment they couldn’t get out of as tickets were touted for hundreds of Euro. A Fine Gael TD has said the Government needs to commit to a date to introducing his anti-touting legislation as U2 tickets sold at vertigo inducing prices; hundreds of euro above their face value.

Deputy Noel Rock said: “The exploitation of fans needs to stop now. Sometimes legislation can’t make it on its own which is why I am lobbying Government to enact my

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touting proposals as soon as possible. This can’t wait for another day. “Tickets for the recent Dublin gig were selling for €942 on Seatwave, the touting website facilitated by Ticketmaster. “We know the desire for change is there. Real fans are sick of paying through the nose for tickets to concerts in Ireland. It will be the sweetest thing when this legislation finally passes, but action needs to be taken now,” the Dublin TD said.

Setting out the future of youth services in local communities. Andy Leeson of Foróige Tallaght Youth Service with Minister Katherine Zappone at a national conference at Croke Park. Up for discussion was how to ensure services continue to deliver the best possible results for young people in the community.

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COFFEE MORNING FOR UGANDA ‘SUCCESS’ NATIONAL LOTTERY GOOD CAUSES AWARDS

Cllr Gilligan pictured with three of the friends intending to travel to Uganda.

Cllr Trevor Gilligan recently attended a coffee morning to help raise funds, Cllr Gilligan said “18 Clondalkin school friends are going to Uganda next April for 10 days, they need to get €2000 sponsorship each so we held a coffee morning in Woodford to help with funding. We are delighted so many people showed up to enjoy tea and cake.” The Clondalkin Cllr concluded “Sorcha, who is Vice Principal of Colaiste Chillian is running most of the fundraising. For more info, please contact Hazel 0863469126 or Sorcha in Colaiste Chillian 01 4574888. This is a great initiative, I wish the students success in reaching their target and would ask anyone who can to support the cause.”

The Dublin/Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team has scooped a National Lottery Good Cause Award for its work keeping people who climb our mountains safe. The group of 60 committed volunteers won the Sport & Recreation category in the inaugural Awards which took place at a glittering ceremony in Dublin recently. The rescue team received €10,000 in prize money to go back into the service. The new Awards are aimed at honouring the extraordinary work impacting on communities all over Ireland thanks to National Lottery Good Causes funding. The Dublin/Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team is on standby 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. From responding to one or two incidents a year when it first established, last year it dealt with more than one call-out a week. And this year it is on course to exceed that figure. The Service responds to all sorts of incidents whether lost walkers, those who sustain injury or medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest. The benefit of National Lottery

Good Causes funding on the service has been immense. Over the years it has helped DWMRT buy vital medical equipment but most recently funded the first mountain rescue stretcher capable vehicle in Ireland, reduced the amount of time an injured or ill patient has to be manually carried over uneven terrain. When “Storm Emma” hit this year it did 28 medical emergency call outs to people inaccessible due to the snow. In October the DWMRT was called to four different incidents on one Saturday alone. It assisted a hillwalker who had collapsed in Fraughan Rock Glen while climbing Lugnaquilla; responded to an injured mountain

biker; helped a climber in Glendalough who fell about 30 metres and a paraglider who sustained multiple injuries on the Great Sugar Loaf. More than 30 cent in every €1 spent on National Lottery games goes back to Good Causes in the areas of Health, Sport, Youth, Community, Arts & Culture, Heritage and the Irish Language. Last year alone €226 million was raised for Good Causes by players of National Lottery games – or an incredible €620,000 a day. Since the National Lottery was established over 30 years ago players in Ireland have helped raise more than €5.3 billion for Good Causes, funding which has shaped the development of modern Ireland.

Pictured at the presentation of their award were: John Kavanagh of the Dublin Mountain Rescue Team;with Dermot Griffin, Chief Executive, The National Lottery .

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TREATMENT PURCHASE FUND SHOULD BE OPENED TO INCLUDE CHILDREN WAITING John Curran T.D. says the National Treatment Purchase Fund needs to be opened to include children waiting for outpatient appointments. Deputy Curran was speaking in the Dáil recently on the issue and he called on the Minister for Health, Simon Harris to be more ambitious with the National Treatment Purchase Fund and to consider using the fund to address the long waiting

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lists of children for certain outpatient appointments. “There are over 44,000 children waiting for an appointment in Dublin over 17,000 of them for more than a year and over 10,000 for over 18 months. It’s genuinely shocking that children are waiting so long just to have an outpatient consultation in our main children’s hospitals in the capital. In Crumlin alone, 1,190 children have been

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waiting over a year for cardiology appointments, with a further 1,027 waiting as long to see an ophthalmologist”, said Deputy Curran. “Some of the waiting lists for Temple Street are even more shocking - with 2,460 children waiting more than 12 months for Ear/Nose/ Throat consultations.

“Despite these ever increasing waiting lists and waiting times, there appears to be no sense of urgency in addressing this issue; Fine Gael seems content to allow waiting lists for both adults and children. “These lengthy lists are having a detrimental impact on children. It’s a scandalous situation and cannot be tolerated any longer”. “Fianna Fáil successfully demanded the reintroduction of the National Treatment Purchase Fund as part of the Confidence and Supply arrangement. I believe that there is capacity in the private health sector to drastically reduce waiting lists for these specialities in particular. “Children and their parents need a

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government that prioritises investment in core health services, and that actively seeks to improve their quality of life. The Fund

should now be opened up to include children who are outpatients so that these lists can be dramatically reduced. These need to be

addressed and the National Treatment Purchase Fund should be optimised to make that a reality,” concluded Deputy Curran.

ABBVIE WIN BIOPHARMA COMPANY OF THE YEAR AT INDUSTRY AWARDS

AbbVie, a global biopharmaceutical company with offices in Citywest and Santry, was recognised for making a significant contribution to the biopharma industry at the recent Pharma Industry Awards as the company took the ‘Biopharma Company of the Year’ and the ‘Health and Safety’ trophies. The Pharma Industry Awards recognise and celebrate the most original and innovative individuals and companies demonstrating excellence in the Irish pharmaceutical sector.

Pictured L-R: Ann-Marie Ward (AbbVie, Sligo) ; Andrew Shaw (AbbVie, Dublin); Darragh Pattwell (AbbVie, Sligo); representative from category sponsor, Kuehne +Nagel; Jens Buchwald (AbbVie, Cork ); and Peter Moran (AbbVie, Sligo) are pictured accepting the 2018 Biopharma Company of the Year award

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AMI - THE ONLY COMPANY IN IRELAND TO ACHIEVE AN ADISA MEMBERSHIP

Rathcoole company AMI, Ireland’s leading secure IT disposal company, recently announced that it is the only company in Ireland to achieve an ADISA membership, and one of only four companies globally to attain the highest award, a Distinction with Honours. Both AMI’s Belfast and Dublin sites achieved the certification, making it the most secure IT disposal company on the island of Ireland. The IT disposal market in Ireland and the UK is worth approximately €275 million. To date this year, AMI has destroyed the data on over 300,000 items, and expects to further grow its market share with the awarding of this certification by 20%.

The company will also expand its services in the UK in the coming months. ADISA is an industry accreditation scheme for companies who provide IT asset disposal services; only the most secure companies achieve the certification. This provides assurance to companies that their IT disposal partner is adhering to the most stringent industry standards and global best practice. This is especially important under the GDPR, which requires that organisations ensure the secure disposal of their old IT equipment and that any data contained on devices is completely destroyed. As an ADISA member, AMI undergoes a scheduled

full audit at least once every three years, but the company also undergoes entirely unannounced spot-check audits at least once a year. Members must pass all 112 essential criteria before the ADISA audit teams award companies with a pass mark. Philip McMichael, managing director, AMI, said: “Security is the bedrock of our business. We work with the most security conscious companies, including data centres, banks and four out of the big five accounting and consulting firms, all of whom identify data security as critical.”

of satisfaction from the award and knowing that our security levels are among the best in the world.”

“Besides providing the most secure IT asset disposal service, AMI also provides customers with the highest return on their old IT equipment. We help companies to realise the monetary value of their old and

redundant IT assets by refurbishing and reselling equipment to our global network of 350 bulk buyers – this can generate a lucrative revenue stream for organisations. In 2017, we returned €2 million to our client base and nine out of 10 of our customers don’t receive an invoice form AMI as the revenue generated from the resale of their old IT covers the fee.”

“In the GDPR age, organisations are more aware than ever of their obligations to protect their customers’ data. By investing in the achievement of this certification, along with the many other accreditations AMI holds, we can differentiate ourselves from competitors as the most secure IT disposal and data destruction company in Ireland. This distinctive mark reassures our customers that we are best placed to look after their needs.” “Achieving the highest possible mark for our IT disposal services is fantastic recognition and a real testament to the hard work and high standards maintained by the AMI team. The unannounced audits constantly keep us on our toes, but we are passionate about the data security of our clients and get a lot

Philip McMichael, Managing Director, AMI. Photo credit: Donal McCann

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In this edition of the paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors, deals with various legal matters. As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally, Solicitors, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Telephone 4599506, Email â&#x20AC;&#x201C; legal@scally.ie Q. I brought my own claim against my employer for an accident at work some years ago. I sustained a bad injury to my right arm and have never regained full function of the arm. I just named my Employers as the people responsible. It took a long time to get the medical report and the two years since my accident was almost up when I submitted my claim to the Injuries Board. Now however, the Injuries Board are telling me that my Employers have declined to deal with the claim and have issued an Authorisation. I have heard through the grapevine that my Employers think that they are not responsible because the accident happened while I was delivering a loaded pallet for my Employers to another company. My accident happened while on the premises of the other company when a forklift driver drove over my foot. What should I do? A. I think that you could be in some difficulty here. You say that you brought your action only against your Employer as, on the day of the accident, you were working on the instructions of your Employer. However, you go on to say further that the accident was caused as a result of what appears to have been the negligence of an employee of some other company whom I take it you did not name on the original Injuries Board Form. You are now over two years since the accident. It seems very likely therefore that you are now statute barred from bringing any claim against the other company arising out of the incident. You can certainly continue your claim against your Employers but this may not be sufficient and certainly you will not succeed against your Employer if they were not the people responsible for the negligence resulting in your injury. This could be very unfortunate indeed and could very likely mean that you will have no claim for compensation no matter how serious your injury or how far reaching the consequences of that injury are for you with a view to your working life going forward. It is important to arrange an appointment with a Solicitor as soon as possible to see if anything can be done to salvage any aspect of this claim. On balance, however, it is always our advice to ensure that you are naming all correct potential Respondents on the Injuries Board form. It is not the job of the Injuries Board to give you legal advice and it is important to take advice from Solicitors prior to lodging a claim with the Injuries Board to avoid what looks like an unfortunate situation for you. We can only recommend that you seek an early consultation with a Solicitor to see if anything can be done for you.

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MOTORING LIFE WITH OPEL GRANDLAND X – A TRULY IMPRESSIVE SUV. By Breda Corrigan With world-wide sales of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV’s) at an all-time high, car manufacturer’s are quickly realising just how important SUV’s are in terms of volume and profitability. As a result, Opel now has three such vehicles, with the Grandland X joining the Mokka X and Crossland X to make a full range of SUVs for buyers to choose from. Whereas the Mokka X and Crossland X essentially fight for the same buyers, the Grandland X is positioned as the German manufacturer’s flagship, being noticeably larger and more expensive. Opel’s recently launched Grandland X is based on the same platform as the multi award-winning Peugeot 3008 SUV. Thanks to Opel’s recent takeover by the PSA Group (Peugeot’s parent company) the Grandland X shares many parts with the French SUV, and comes with a similar range of engines and gearboxes. Powerful & Elegant Stance; Modern, dynamic lines, and a cool off-road look with elevated seating position give the new Opel Grandland X a powerful and elegant stance on the open-road. With good all-round visibility, along with cutting-edge technology and plenty of space and comfort for up to five passengers – this is Opel at its best. The new Grandland X side views echo the attractive combination of rugged SUV appeal and elegant lines. Muscular, sculpted wheel arches and protective cladding on the lower body give the Grandland X real beauty and genuine off-road appeal. In contrast, clear lines and the refined blade on the lower doors identify the new Grandland X as a member of the Opel family. Optional twotone finish with the roof in contrasting black adds an extra touch of personalisation. Its smooth flow into the rest of the body is emphasised by the “breakthrough” C pillar, which also creates a dynamic bond to the rear. The rear view of the Grandland X possesses real SUV character thanks to a wide stance, silver under-ride protection (with integrated tailpipes on the left and right), protective cladding and slim LED taillights. Excellent Interior Ergonomics;

The cabin of the new Grandland X is equally as impressive as the exterior thanks to clever use of space and excellent ergonomics. The instrument panel and centre stack with touchscreen are clearly laid out and horizontally aligned to the driver. The centre stack has three horizontal rows of controls for fast and intuitive access to infotainment, climate control and chassis functions. The interior surfaces have a high-quality look and feel, providing the occupants with a feeling of supreme comfort in all seats. They benefit from the SUV-typical elevated seating position that facilitates access and ensures good visibility. The optional panorama glass sunroof floods the interior with light and provides excellent skyward visibility. Typical first-class Opel comfort is ensured by the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) certified ergonomic seats as well as a heated steering wheel and seat heating front and rear, which is standard on Elite and Ultimate models. Specification Levels, Engines & Transmissions; Four trim levels are available in the new Grandland X – SC, SRi, Elite and Ultimate, while engine options consist of a 1.2-litre turbo-charged petrol with 130PS, a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel with 130PS and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with 177PS. Transmission options consist of a slick six-speed manual or a smooth eight-speed automatic. Test Car; My test car was a Grandland X Ultimate 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, eight-speed automatic, finished in stunning Quartz Grey metallic paint. With 400Nm of torque available from this four-cylinder engine, the 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 9.5-seconds while leading to a top speed of 211km/h (where permitted). Opel claim fuel consumption as low as 4.6l/100km is possible on an extra-urban driving cycle. Standard specification across the entire Opel Grandland X range is impressive, with my test car coming with Navi 5.0 IntelliLink satellite navigation with fully integrated European satellite navigation, an 8-inch colour touchscreen, Smartphone projection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone

portal, ‘Denon’ Premium Sound System, 19” alloy wheels, electric wing mirrors with puddle lights, auto wipers, auto lights with high beam assist, front fog lights, power tailgate, black roof and door mirrors, rear privacy glass, chrome side window trim, cruise control with speed limiter, dual zone electronic climate control, 60/40 split folding rear seats, flex floor, lane departure warning, speed sign recognition, traffic sign recognition camera, LED daytime running lights, Premium LED Adaptive Forward Lighting Pack, emergency braking system, hill start assist, ESP with traction control, side blind spot alert, parking sensors front and rear, leather seat trim, internal front seat cooling fans, heated front & outer rear seats and a heated steering wheel. All trim levels come with Opel’s excellent OnStar concierge package, which can help you get to your destination, or call the emergency services in the event of an accident. Outstanding Safety Features; With a five star Euro NCAP safety rating, the Opel Grandland X is one of the safest cars on the market. The Grandland X also features a first-class portfolio of ultra-modern assistance systems (standard or optional – depending on the trim chosen) that make travelling more relaxing: Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection, Driver Drowsiness Alert, Advanced Park Assist and a 360° Camera are just some highlights. Optional systems such as Automatic Cruise Control with stop function, which maintains the speed and selected distance to the vehicle ahead and brakes to a full stop or accelerates the Grandland X when required, increase safety even further. Opel again delivers on its commitment to leadership

in lighting technology, equipping the Grandland X with bright driving light thanks to Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) LED headlamps (standard on Ultimate model). Functions such as cornering lights, high beam assist and auto levelling guarantee optimal illumination of the road ahead in all situations. Generous Cabin & Boot Space; Space in the back of the Grandland X is excellent, and growing families will appreciate the flat floor, which allows passengers to sit three-abreast in comfort. There is ample head and legroom, and plenty of storage areas and cubby holes throughout the entire cabin. Boot space is generous, with 514-litres available with the rear seats in the upright position and a massive 1,652-litres with the rear seats folded. Driving the new Opel Grandland X is a real pleasure, with the car providing a soft and composed ride quality, while the precise steering is well weighted and confidence inspiring. Having driven the Opel Grandland X in 1.2-litre turbo-petrol guise earlier this year, I can honestly say that, whether you choose a petrol or diesel-powered Opel Grandland X, low running costs, a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience and top-class practicality are guaranteed. Pricing; Ex-works prices for the new Opel Grandland X start at just €28,395, while the rangetopping ‘Ultimate’ model I drove is priced from €41,595. I was extremely impressed by the new Opel Grandland X, and I think you will be too. Now is the time to recapture the magic of driving with the Opel Grandland X. It offers a true ‘German SUV feeling for all’.

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NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS 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. N.D. MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.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.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. Never known to fail. A,J.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. 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. U.R MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.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. I.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. B.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. Also thank St. Therese, The Holy Spirit, all the Angels, Saints and Archangels for their help. P.W Novena to the Holy Spirit You who solve all problems, who lights all roads so I can obtain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and to forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life, you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and to confirm that I never want to be separated from you even and in spite of all material illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine (mention favours). This prayer must be said 3 consecutive days and published immediately. After 3 days the favour requested will be granted even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. I.S.

Prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succor me in this my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein that you are my Mother. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us that have recourse to thee (3 times). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). M.M. Novena to the Holy Spirit You who solve all problems, who lights all roads so I can obtain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and to forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life, you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and to confirm that I never want to be separated from you even and in spite of all material illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine (mention favours). This prayer must be said 3 consecutive days and published immediately. After 3 days the favour requested will be granted even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. M.M. Prayer to St Anne To Obtain Some Special Favour Glorious St. Anne, filled with compassion for those who invoke thee, and with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the

weight of my troubles, I cast myself at thy feet and humbly beg of thee to take the present affair which I recommend to thee under thy special protection. Vouchsafe to recommend it to thy Daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. Above all, obtain for me the grace of one day beholding my God face to face, and with thee and Mary and all the Saints, praising and blessing Him to all eternity. Good St. Anne, mother of her who is our Life, our Sweetness and our Hope, pray to her for us, and obtain our request. (3 times) M.M. UNFAILING PRAYER TO ST JUDE St Jude is the Patron Saint of Impossible Cases Glorius Apostle, Saint Jude, I salute you through the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Through his heart I praise and thank God for all the graces he has bestowed upon you. I implore you, through his love, to look upon me with comapssion. Do not despise my poor prayer, Do not let my trust be confounded! God has granted to you the privelege of aiding mankind in the most desperate cases. Oh , come to my aid that I may praise the mercies of God! All my life I will be your grateful client until I can thank you in heaven. Amen (Mention your request) Saint Jude, pray for us, and for all who invoke your aid. Your request may be granted by the 8th day. God willing. Publication of thanks to St Jude must be promised. Say this Novena

nine times in a row for nine days in a row. M.H. 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. Our holistic approach ensures we support the whole family through a unique care plan that may include: symptom management; planned short hospice stays (respite); unplanned hospice stays (emergency care); end of life care; music & play therapy; psychological & bereavement support; Social Work and Chaplaincy. All care is provided free to families. Care can be availed of in the hospice, at hospital, in the community, or in the family home, depending on the child and family’s preference. 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 made out to Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to: NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. If you require any further information please call 01 45 19 000 or email info@newsgroup.ie.

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