Lucan News

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15TH. DEC. 2016 TEL: 01 451 3822 / 01 451 9000 email: info@newsgroup.ie web: www.newsgroup.ie

'RENT PUNISHMENT' Sinn Féin housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD has described Minister Coveney's new rent measures as 'rent punishment not rent predictability'.

The Dublin Mid-West TD said that 'rather than putting a break on rent increases his plan allows landlords to increase rents by 4% a year every year for the next three years".

Speaking after the launch of the government’s strategy Deputy Ó Broin said: “Minister Coveney’s plan fails struggling renters. Rather than putting a break on rent increases he is allowing landlords to increase rents by 4% every year

for the next three years.

"At the core of Coveney's strategy is a guaranteed rent increase of 12% over three years. This will continue to heap pressure on struggling renters and lock low income families and single people out of the rental market.

“A family renting an average home in Dublin for €1,500 per month will pay an additional €4,500 in rent over the next three years thanks to Minister Coveney.

"In Cork City, families will be out of pocket by an extra €3,200 over the same period.

"Low and middle income families and single people simple do

not have this money.

They cannot afford further rent increases.

"For those living outside these so called 'rent pressure zones' rents will continue to rise.

The latest quarterly rental report for Daft. ie showed that tenants in Galway City faced an average annual rent increase of 10.9% and in Limerick it was even higher at 13.2%.

"Minister Coveney and his cabinet colleagues clearly do not understand the huge pressure low and middle income earners are under due to out of control rents.

"Minister Coveney has clearly got it wrong on rents. Last week, when opposing Sinn Féin's

Private Members Bill on Rent Certainty, Fianna Fáil said that if Coveney did not deal with this issue in his strategy they would table their own legislation.

"As Minister Coveney intends to legislate for his rent plan this week in an amendment to the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Bill, there is now an opportunity for all of us who are serious about rent certainty to work together.

"I have e-mailed Fianna Fáil Housing Spokesperson Barry Cowen seeking an urgent meeting to see how we can best cooperate to table a cross party amendment this week to do what Minister Coveney and his colleagues in Cabinet are clearly not willing to do, namely to give struggling renters a break."

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PENSION GAP LEADING TO SERIOUS FINANCIAL HARDSHIP FOR WOMEN

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West and Chair of the Social Protection Committee John Curran has said he will not let go the issue of fairness and equality when it comes to the State Pension.

Speaking in the Dáil Deputy Curran said: “It is a matter of fairness and equality.

There is a specific anomaly that exists in respect of the state contributory pension, which primarily affects women and is leading to serious financial hardship for women.

This is an issue that I have been raising for some time, and changes over recent years has made the situation worse for women.

Financial hardship in retirement has become a real problem for women because of the way the current system is

structured. It is deeply unfair to penalise women who take time out of the workplace to raise children and we need to see the current system reviewed.

As chair of the Social Protection Committee I am committed to follow up on this issue until the Minister agrees to review the situation.

The Social Protection Committee will begin an in-depth analysis of pensions, but this area of the pensions sector in particular – the contributory State pension and averaging, which is unfair and does not lead to equality - is something we will examine in considerable detail.

I have been contacted by a number of women who are extremely worried about their pension entitlements.

Many of them will not be entitled to the

full pension payment because they don’t have enough paid contributions and are anxious about how this will impact their pensions.

Only 16% of women receive the full State pension, and changes to the contributory thresholds, which determine how much people receive, have made the situation for women worse.

We need to move towards a universal pension system which gives women and men equal access to a comprehensive pension guarantee, which provides a decent standard of living for all.

The current State pension scheme must be reviewed and replaced with a system which doesn’t discriminate against women.”

COMIC AL PORTER PUTS SUPPORTING SIMON ON HIS BUCKET LIST

Pictured is renowned funny man Al Porter with Dublin Simon volunteer Masha Buldakova calling on the public to come out and support the Dublin Simon Community this Christmas. The comedian is urging the public to support the homeless charity during the festive season. The Panto star was on hand to support the leading homeless and housing charity in their Christmas appeal, as they seek the support of people in everything from signing up for Sing for Simon to shoe box appeals to volunteering on Christmas Day and bucket shaking at charity fundraisers. You can also show your support for all of these events by offering to volunteer and bucket shake during these Christmas fundraisers.

For more information and to see how you can get involved this Christmas, please go to www. dubsimon.ie. (Picture Conor McCabe Photography)

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CRUCIAL DEAL MUST BE REACHED ON LIFE SAVING DRUG ORKAMBI - Life saving CF drug, Orkambi, should be provided under Long Term Illness Scheme – Dublin West TD, Jack Chambers has said that no price can, or should, be put on a person’s life or quality of life, and that the HSE must finalise negotiations with Orkambi manufacturer, Vertex, as quickly as possible.

Deputy Chambers was

commenting after the Minister for Health, Simon Harris announced that the HSE had reopened negotiations with Vertex focused on securing access to Orkambi for patients with CF at the best possible price for the Exchequer.

“No one is saying that we should write a blank cheque to Vertex. However, price should not be the only determinant in what drugs are licensed for use by the HSE,” he said.

“Orkambi has been shown to be life-saving

and life-transforming for CF patients. Just like Kalydeco, which was approved by former Health Minister, Dr James Reilly, against the recommendation of the National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics, Orkambi should be approved for suitable

patients.

“Cystic Fibrosis is a debilitating and life limiting condition, which affects thousands of people across the country and the Government’s c o n t i n u e d procrastination on a decision to provide

this game changing drug is nothing short of appalling,” added the Fianna Fáil TD. “My party has consistently pushed for the Government and the HSE to seek agreement among other countries to leverage their combined purchasing power in order to avail of the best possible price. The Government have been slow in this regard to date; however, I am pleased that Minister Harris’ has increased his interest in seeking such partnerships.

“Earlier this month over 2000 people took to the streets outside Dáil Éireann to demand Orkambi be provided.

Along with my party leader, Micheál Martin, I met with many from Dublin 15 and beyond to hear first hand their concerns about what might happen to them, or their children, if they do not receive the

drug.

“There was a very strong case made

by CF campaigner, Jillian McNulty and many others from the Cystic Fibrosis Community, about the costs associated with Orkambi. It must be noted that when we add in the costs of drugs, and additional procedures, the cost of Orkambi becomes the most cost effective treatment, and the treatment that gives people with CF back their quality of life.

“Not only is this a costeffective proposal, it would also free up much needed acute beds in the already pressurised health service.

“I am appealing to Minister Harris to give this drug the serious consideration it warrants and to provide this life changing medication to the people who need it.”

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YOUNG PEOPLE INCLUDED IN EXPANDED WARMTH AND WELLBEING SCHEME

Young children with respiratory problems will benefit from a €10m expansion in a home improvement scheme targeted at Tallaght and Crumlin, according to Dublin South West TD and

Independent Minister, Katherine Zappone.

The Minister explains that an existing scheme targeted at those over the age of 55’s is being extended to cover children aged 12 and under.

O’CONNOR WELCOMES TALLAGHT AWARDS Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor, the chairman of the Council’s Economic, Enterprise & Tourism Development SPC has welcomed the decision of the French government to award their highest academic awards to 2 academics at the Institute of Technology Tallaght.

He applauded the awards given to Dr Angela Feeney and Dr Eamonn Maher from the Department of Humanities at the College in recognition of their endeavors and their distinguished service.

According to Charlie O’Connor, the awards, the highest academic award the French government can bestow, were presented at a special ceremony by the French Ambassador Jean-Pierre Thébault.

He added that it was a great honor for both recipients.

It is expected that 500 family homes in the Dublin 24 and Dublin 12 postcodes will benefit.

Minister Zappone says the improvements will cut down on hospital visits, reduce asthma attacks and prevent fuel poverty by making family homes warmer and healthier.

The Minister added: “Since the introduction of the pilot Warmth and Wellbeing Scheme in our communities earlier this year 147 local people over the age of 55 qualified for home improvements.

The Government footed the bill for works which averaged at €20,000 per house in both Tallaght and Crumlin.

Much of the work has been completed in time for winter, while large scale projects will resume when the

weather improves.

The New Year will also see a huge expansion when families who have children with respiratory problems or asthma will also qualify.

Under the means tested scheme those in receipt of Fuel Allowance or the One Parent Family Payment work will be carried out for free.

Work will be carried out on homes to improve temperature, energy efficient and air quality.

This should cut days out of school, hospital visits and incidents of sickness for our children.

Official figures show that children with Asthma and other respiratory problems miss an average of 10 school days each year because of illness.

The piloting of

Firhouse local Laura Ball welcomes Minister Katherine Zappon and Minister Denis Naughten into her home for the launch of the expanded Warmth and Wellbeing Scheme this scheme in our communities has been a success. Health and Wellbeing is an example of how the Government can improve the lives of people of all ages by taking preventative action.

As a local Independent Minister I have asked that a local awareness campaign

will be launched across Tallaght through local doctors, the HSE and the Sustainable Energy Authority to make families aware of the expanded scheme.

It is also important that the benefits of the work are kept under constant review and that every step is taken to ensure that as many people as

possible benefit.

As Minister I have worked with my colleague the Minister for Climate Change, Denis Naughten, TD to secure this expansion – it is my firm hope that it will be a success and that Tallaght will pave the way for a similar Nationwide scheme in 2018.”

MACARI'S TAKE AWAY

Old Bawn Shopping Centre, Tallaght, Dublin24

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CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY FOR THE STUDENTS OF ST MARK’S COMMUNITY COLLEGE, TALLAGHT

Students at St Mark’s Community College in Tallaght, Dublin have the future at their fingertips following the generous donation of 12 iPads by Kirby Group Engineering and a number of its IT suppliers.

Kirby partnered with Action Point, HAS Group, Exertis and Bechtle and donated 12 iPads to the Leaving Certificate Applied

Class, one for each student in the class.

Commenting on the donation, Jennifer Aherne, HR Development Officer at Kirby, said: ‘As part of Kirby’s commitment to engaging with and supporting local communities and initiatives, we are delighted to donate 12 iPads to St Mark’s Community College.

This donation would not have been possible

without the incredible generosity of Action Point, HAS Group, Exertis and Bechtle.”

“Technology plays an integral role in today’s student learning journey. We hope our donation will enhance and diversify the learning process for the students so that they may reach their full potential” continued Aherne.

Ms Janice Martin, teacher at St Mark’s

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Community College said: “We are very grateful to Kirby and their suppliers for this kind gesture.

These iPads are vital educational tools which will enrich the student learning experience.”

In addition to the donation, Kirby supports the students at St Mark’s Community College through its involvement in the Schools’ Business Partnership programme.

The programme offers participating students a unique insight into the world of work. Kirby employees work closely with the students and offer career advice and insight, support with CV writing skills and interview skills.

Students are also given a site tour on some of Kirby’s projects.

Pictured are Leaving Certificate Applied students pictured with the donated iPads

Entertaining both children and adults alike for over four decades with their wonderful and magical productions, The Lambert Puppet Theatre is now widely recognised as the premier touring puppet theatre company in Ireland. Hansel & Gretel is a beautifully produced show with large puppets and colourful sets. Still a firm favourite with children and adults alike, Bosco will make a nostalgic appearance in the show at the Civic Theatre, Tallaght!

Thursday 29th December 12 & 3pm Tickets €10 (family of 4, €35) Box Office: 01 4627477 To be in with a chance to win a family pass to see Hansel & Gretel show at 12pm on the 29th of December. To enter simply answer the question below with your name and contact information by email to info@newsgroup.ie, Direct Message on Twitter @NewsgroupIRL or Private Message on www. facebook.com/newsgroup.ie Where in Tallaght will the Hansel & Gretel show take place?

Competition closes on the 21st of December.

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Dear Constituents, May I wish you and yours a wonderful festive season and peaceful New Year.

Please drop by to visit my new constituency office at 45 Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. The office is open for appointment only Mondays and Fridays with walk-in clinics on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am-12pm and 2.30pm-4.30pm.

Should you need an appointment outside of these times, please contact the office to arrange.

Warm Regards, Dr. Katherine Zappone

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LOW-INCOME FAMILIES STILL STRUGGLING TO PAY THE BILLS - CPI increases in basic goods and services -

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT In 2015, nearly 93% of consumers surveyed had either given or sent a gift voucher.

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50.4% of consumers purchase gift cards so the recipient can choose their own gift.

The average consumer purchased at least two gift cards as gifts for the 2015 holiday season.

For Christmas 2015 men spent nearly 20% more on gift vouchers than women.

Gift vouchers are among the top gift choices for both givers and receivers.

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are essential goods and services,” said the Dublin Mid-West TD. “The modest gains, which Fianna Fáil fought hard for, will be swallowed up by these increases in everyday, basic items.

For thousands of lowincome families, 2017 will be yet another year where they struggle to balance the books.”

“Ireland has some quite staggering poverty and deprivation statistics. 59% of lone parent households are currently experiencing deprivation while 8% of the population is living in consistent poverty.”

“The Government must step up and do more. Many low income families have not felt or experienced any sort of economic recovery; they are living hand to mouth on a weekly basis and are faced with ever increasing costs for essential goods and services."

“While prices on average, as measured by the CPI, were 0.1% lower in November compared with November 2015, a more detailed analysis

shows that the cost of several essential items rose considerably in the same period.”

“Essentials such as house and car insurance rose by 7.6% and 11.6 respectively.

In addition the CPI also revealed that local authority rents rose on average by 3.9%, while secondary education costs rose by 2.7% and with rail travel costs rising by a further 2.1%.”

“None of these items, by any stretch of the imagination, would be deemed as luxuries.

For families, up and down the country, they

At the release of the CSO inflation figures for October, the Irish Small

& Medium Enterprises Association highlights the importance of

putting more money back into workers pockets in 2017.

There was a decrease of 0.1% in the annual CPI inflation figure for November, while consumer prices in November, decreased by 0.1% in the month.

ISME, CEO, Neil McDonnell said, "2017 creates an opportunity for Government to reduce state controlled costs.

Education, insurance, transport and health make up 48% of the overall CPI and this is having an impact on family and worker's budgets."

The Association called on the Government to: Reduce exorbitant insurance, bank interest and legal fees.

Ensure that all stateimposed business costs are benchmarked internationally.

Ensure that SMEs are not hampered by labour, tax or regulatory increases.

Reduce public sector costs.

Outsource more state sector services to SMEs. "By targeting Government influenced costs in 2017, workers would have more money in their pocket, this is a more viable and credible option economically than increasing public sector pa. The former will benefit everyone, the latter will only benefit the one in seven who work for the state" concluded McDonnell.

Fianna Fáil Chair of the Social Protection Committee John Curran TD has said that many low income families have felt little or no recovery in their own personal economic circumstances as the latest CSO Consumer Price Index shows that low income families are still struggling to afford essential goods and services.

“Unless there is a concerted effort from this Government to address poverty and social exclusion a large cohort of people will be spectators rather than participants in our society,” concluded Curran.

2017 A NEW YEAR; FRESH APPROACH REQUIRED NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS PHOTO CONTEST RESULTS

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This year in our Gift Voucher Give

The UK edition of National Geographic Kids magazine is delighted to announce the winners of the National Geographic Photography Contest for Kids 2016.

Eleven-year-old Joshua Ritchie, from Dublin, scooped the first place award in the Wild Vacation category with his photograph entitled Walk On. The competition was judged by wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan and renowned National Geographic photographer Reza.

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NEW APPROACH NEEDED ON BIN CHARGES

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has stated his extreme disappointment with the news that the Minister for the Environment, Denis Naughten, will bring forward new proposals to introduce a pay by weight waste management system next year.

Crowe said that this will inevitably put an additional burden on hard pressed families.

Deputy Seán Crowe

said: “The controversial pay by weight system that was introduced in the dying days of the last Government is not going to be scrapped but will instead be reintroduced by the middle of next year.

“I am extremely disappointed that the Government are to continue with this system, as it allows refuse companies to lead the Government by the nose on this issue. We know that earlier in the year

some companies played sharp practise with the new system and increased charges, with some customers being charged doubled the amount for a yearly contract.

“Minister Naughten has said he will delay the new system until the middle of next year, but this short deferment will not be much help or support for all those who are under severe financial pressure to keep their bins. By opting for the

pay by weight system the Minister is leaving hard working families to the mercy of these companies.

“Many of us in Leinster House, and at Council level, argued that the privatisation of waste collection would not only lead to job losses and a poorer service, but would inevitably lead to an increase in service charges. It gives me no satisfaction to confirm this prediction has now become a reality.

“Families know to their cost, that waste charges have increased dramatically, and many are facing into the likelihood that they will be forced to pay significantly more.

John Curran TD DUBLIN MID-WEST

“Unfortunately, with the control resting with the waste and recycling companies the likelihood is that most people will soon have to begin paying by weight for all of their bins, including their green bins.”

MORE SPOT CHECKS NEEDED TO CLAMP DOWN ON ROGUE CHRISTMAS TREE VENDORS Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, has called for an increase in the amount of spot checks on unlicensed Christmas tree sellers, following an increase in rogue vendors who are selling Christmas trees illegally.

“There are numerous Christmas tree sellers all over country at this time of year and I would urge people to buy a real Irish Christmas tree.

“Around 550,000 Christmas trees are sold in Ireland each year, with 350,000 sold at home and about 200,000 trees exported to the UK, France and Germany. The industry is worth €21 million to the Irish economy.

“Unfortunately however, the sellers who are playing by the rules and paying VAT are unfairly losing out to those who aren’t.

“Garden centres make a significant portion of their yearly profit

during the month of December, through the sales of Christmas trees. These sales can be crucial to licensed businesses to get them through the quieter months of January and February.

“I was contacted by a Christmas tree grower who informed me that licensed sellers in their area have been badly affected this year, as a result of an unprecedented number of unlicensed vendors.

“Some garden centres in the area have seen their sales fall to a little as half of last year’s turnover, as an unprecedented number of rogue vendors have descended on the area.

“Spot checks were carried out last year and were hugely successful in getting unlicensed sellers off the streets. However, it appears that rogue vendors are back with a vengeance this year, so I am now calling for an increase in spot checks in order protect those who are playing by the rules.”

Dáil Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2.

✆: 01 618 3792 ✉: john.curran@oireachtas.ie @curranjohna /john.curranff

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REPORT SHOWS SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT IN PALLIATIVE CARE FOR CHILDREN

HUNDREDS of children with life-limiting conditions and their families have had access to improved palliative care thanks to a national policy adopted seven years ago.

An Evaluation of the Children’s Palliative Care Programme

launched by the Health Minister Simon Harris found new initiatives like outreach nurses are “significantly enhancing” the quality of palliative care being delivered to children with life-limiting conditions across Ireland.

About 350 children die before their 18th

birthday every year in Ireland. There are an estimated 3, 840 children in Ireland living with a lifelimiting condition.

They have an incurable illness that often requires special care and at times may need palliative care.

Children with LifeLimiting Conditions – A National Policy was published by the Department of Health in 2009 to provide a framework for improving palliative care services for children and families that need them.

Palliative

The Children’s Palliative Care Programme (CPCP) delivered some of the priority recommendations of this policy through three key initiatives:

Care

Health Minister Simon Harris studies the report that shows significant improvement in palliative care for children. (Pic. Paul Sherwood)

for

1. The appointment of Ireland’s first consultant paediatrician with a special interest in palliative medicine.

2. Eight outreach nurses were appointed to co-ordinate care for children at home.

3. A paediatric palliative care education and training

programme for healthcare staff was developed to improve the capacity of staff supporting children with life limiting illnesses.

These initiatives were initially 85 per cent funded by the Irish Hospice Foundation at an overall cost of €2.6 million - under an agreement with the HSE. The independent evaluation of the CPCP commissioned by the HSE, Department of Health and Children and Irish Hospice Foundation found the new services have: · Improved quality of life for children and their families. · Improved coordination of services to children with lifelimiting conditions so

they can be cared for in the home setting as far as possible. · Led to an improved children’s palliative care sector with increased education on children’s palliative care. · Increased awareness of children’s palliative care and of the new service in both the public arena and health sector.

Welcoming the launch of the evaluation report, Minister Simon Harris said: "I am pleased that the outcome of this evaluation has been so positive and that the three elements of the Children's Palliative Care Programme have been welcomed by parents, front line services and stakeholders. Naturally there is always room for improvement and

further development, but this report is clear evidence of the progress that has been made and the real difference the introduction of these services has made to children and their families.

We also need to look at how best to develop these services for the future and in light of the changing palliative care landscape, and this report will be an invaluable guide in that regard."

The evaluation makes twenty recommendations for action going forward and the Department of Health will be engaging with the HSE to agree the priorities and the way forward for the continuing development of Children’s Palliative Care services.

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DATA SHARING BETWEEN GARDAÍ AND INSURANCE COMPANIES NEEDED URGENTLY TO TACKLE FRAUD Worrying reports of UK motor insurance fraudsters targeting our compensation culture Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, has called for data sharing between Gardaí and insurance companies to be prioritised, in light of reports that UK motor insurance fraudsters targeting our compensation culture.

“I was horrified to hear reports that motor insurance fraudsters are travelling from the UK to stage crashes here and targeting our profitable and exploitable compensation culture.

“Ireland is very attractive for these fraudsters, as awards compensation is at a significantly higher level than in other EU countries, Awards for whiplash in Ireland average €15,000 per case, compared with €5,000 in the UK and €3,000 in France and Spain.

“We all know that rising insurance costs is a major problem at the moment and organised crime is playing a substantial role in spiking insurance costs for Irish consumers. The insurance industry estimates that fraud costs about €200 million a year, adding €50 to individual policies.

“Unfortunately insurance fraudsters are far more likely to get away with it due to the lack of adequate data-sharing.

“I know that Minister Eoghan Murphy has said that a fraud database is under consideration, which will allow insurance companies to talk to each other and to the Gardaí. I am now urging the Minister to introduce such a system as a matter of priority, to help tackle fraud and rising insurance costs.”

‘DANIEL AND MAJELLA’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE’ - AIRS ON TV3 AT 3PM ON CHRISTMAS DAY

Ireland’s favourite couple will go head-to-head with the Queen of England to deliver TV3’s special Christmas message on Christmas Day. Following on from its inaugural Christmas Day Message last year, TV3 will once again air a special address to the nation on Christmas Day. This year, Ireland’s favourite and most loved couple, Daniel O’Donnell and his wife Majella, will deliver a very special message to viewers all over Ireland.

In their speech, the pair will reflect on the year gone by, and remember what is most important, as together we face into the great unknown that is 2017.

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O’CONNOR CALLS FOR ADDITIONAL SHOWS AT THE CIVIC THEATRE

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called on Council Management to support the provision of additional shows at the Civic Theatre in 2017.

He said that noting the success of recent shows at the Civic Theatre emphasising how important it is for the cultural life of Tallaght and the wider community that the Theatre be used to its full potential as often as possible.

He raised the matter

at a recent meeting of the Tallaght Area committee and the CEO tabled the following report "Under its new Artistic Director the Civic remains fully committed to playing a central role at the heart of the cultural life of Tallaght and the wider South County Dublin area.

The Artistic Director works closely with a wide range of producers, companies and artists

throughout Ireland (and where possible internationally) so as to bring a highly diverse, high quality programme of events with cutting edge new dramas, classic works, light entertainment, popular musical artists, comedy and family programming.

The Civic has an outstanding record and reputation for its quality of service, engagement and creativity, something

the Artistic Director will be developing further.

In particular the Civic will look to grow its local connections and offer opportunities for local artists and groups to gain increased access to its facilities and to have their work presented."

According to Charlie O’Connor, the Civic Theatre is an important asset to the area and it is vital that it receives strong support.

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TALLAGHT IRISH CENTRE STEP CLOSER WITH €150,000 FUNDING

The development of a centre to promote the Irish language in Tallaght Village is a step closer with the announcement of €150,000 in Government funding, according to Dublin South West TD and Independent Minister, Katherine Zappone.

The Minister says Gaelphobal Thamhlachta is receiving the money

to develop an Irish Language and Cultural Centre to include a community café, patio, theatre and a bookshop.

Welcoming the announcement Minister Zappone said the centre will be a huge asset for people of all ages who have a passion for the Irish language.

Minister Katherine Zappone added: “This announcement is

welcome recognition that Irish is a living language which is in everyday use in schools, homes and businesses in Tallaght and neighbouring communities.

The growth in all-Irish schools has shown that the tradition of speaking Irish is going to continue for future generations.

The new centre will not only provide a space

for learning about the language, its origins and culture but it will also provide spaces where people can use it in a social sitting – and perhaps most excitingly will offer an arts and entertainment venue.

I know that since acquiring a premises in Tallaght Village in 2014 that both Conradh na Gaeilge and Gaelphobal Thamhlachta have been actively campaigning

AMPLE UNDEGROUND CAR PARKING AVAILABLE

for support.

The decision by Minister for Gaeltacht Affairs, Seán Kyne TD, to provide the funding is a welcome boost and in

line with the National Strategy for the Irish language which states that Centres will be developed in large urban centres.

I want to take opportunity to wish Gaelphobal Thamhlachta every success with this project.”

The Sinn Féin spokesperson for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Maurice Quinlivan TD has expressed disappointment that of the 2,275 loan applications to the Micro Finance Loan Fund only 1062 were approved.

from October 2012 to September 2016 just 1062 loan applications were approved.

“The total value of loans approved was €15.766 million while the amount drawn down was €13,254 million, with the average loan in the region of €15,000.

“Clearly the government and the Minister need to do more to encourage micro-enterprises to avail of the Fund and more importantly to assist them in the application process.

“An approval rating of under fifty percent raises questions about the administration of the Fund.

“The figures confirm there are major difficulties for small business's accessing finance and suggest more needs to be done when it comes to promotion and application support for this fund.

LESS THAN HALF OF ALL APPLICANTS TO THE MICRO FINANCE LOAN FUND APPROVED

Speaking in response to a parliamentary question submitted to the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Quinlivan said: “In the past four years

“Not for the first time small business finds itself the poor relation when it comes to departmental support”

BARNARDOS LAUNCHES CHRISTMAS TOY APPEAL IN DUBLIN SUPPORTED BY GLS PARCELSHOPS ~ Make a Child’s Christmas by Donating a Gift to Barnardos ~

Barnardos works with children of all ages, from infants up to teenagers. Some suggestions if you need some help in choosing your gift: Infants and toddlers: Activity toys, pre-school toys 3-6 years: Soft toys, action toys, character toys such as Peppa Pig and SpongeBob SquarePants 7-9 years: Board games, dressing up outfits, books, cars 10-15 years: Books, jewellery, games, music, toiletries, clothes vouchers We ask that all gifts for the Barnardos Toy Appeal are new and worth about €10, to ensure that all children get something of equal quality.

Our supporters GLS are collecting gifts in their ParcelShops all over Ireland and will deliver the gifts to Barnardos in time for Christmas. GLS ParcelShops are located all over Ireland. To find your local GLS ParcelShops visit www. barnardos.ie/toyappeal.

If you can't make it to a GLS location, you can choose to give an online gift of any value by visiting www.barnardos.ie.

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NEW APPROACH NEEDED TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has called for a new approach to support the 55,000 people with dementia across the State. He said more needs to be done to ensure that every person with dementia who requires home care has access to dementia-specific care in his or her home.

Crowe was speaking after attending a Dementia Awareness session in Leinster House.

Deputy Seán Crowe said: “Of the 55,000 people living with dementia in this State, it is estimated that 63% of them reside in their own homes. The National Dementia Strategy acknowledges this and the fact that most people with dementia living in their own communities wish to continue to do so,

but this option isn't always possible.

“More must be done to ensure that every person with dementia who requires home care has access to dementia-specific care in his or her home. Currently there are only 7 advisors available across the 26 counties. This clearly isn’t good enough.

“One of the aims of the National Dementia Strategy is to ensure every person with dementia who requires home care has access to dementia specific care in his or her home. I fully endorse and support this recommendation, and we need to see the full implementation of the National Dementia Strategy.

“In my party’s alternative budget proposals for 2017

we also identified housing adaptation as a critical area of importance for those with specific health needs. The existing local government adaptation grant schemes are chronically underfunded.

"Additionally it is of critical importance to ensure that everyone with dementia has access to a timely diagnosis and appropriate postdiagnosis support.

Adequate training must also be rolled out and provided throughout the health and social care services for staff dealing with people with dementia.

“The Government needs to improve investment in care.

Thankfully, on average we are living longer, but this new reality creates new challenges and a new approach is

needed.

“We need to be supporting people to live at home and we will need to open more facilities including nursing homes for the challenges ahead.

We need to be creating dementia friendly communities in our

villages, towns and cities across the State.

Places where people with dementia are understood, respected, supported, and made feel included.

A society in which they are listened to, have choices, and have control over their day to day lives.”

THE STROKE SUPPORT GROUP is for people who have had a stroke, their family and carers.

It provides information about Stroke.

There are different speakers and topics every month.There is also time for tea & coffee and a chat with others.

VENUE: County Library Tallaght Dublin 24.

The Library is located across from the Square Shopping Centre and at the terminus of the Luas Red Line. The group is on in the conference room on the ground floor which is accessible by a ramp or lift.

THE GROUP IS ON THE THIRD TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH: 17TH JANUARY 2017 Ronan Collins (Stroke Consultant) 21ST FEBRUARY 2017 Derek Cummins (Stroke survivor) 21ST MARCH 2017 Memory and driving after stroke 18TH APRIL 2017 Setting goals after a stroke Time: 11am – 12.30pm WHO SHOULD ATTEND? The group is FREE and meets once a month. Unfortunately NO transport can be provided. If you require further information please contact: Miriam Mullaney Physiotherapist HSE at 087 6596901 or Nicola Cogan/ Suzanne Greene, Stroke Nurses Tallaght Hospital at 01-4143219.

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe

WIN WIN WIN WITH NEWSGROUP The Grafton Barber is Ireland's leading chain of Irish owned barber shops with 30 plus stores throughout Ireland, the UK and now recently opened in Lucan Village.

The Grafton Barber specialise in all aspects of cutting, restyling, colouring of men's hair with traditional open razor shaving.

to get VIP service along with modern well groomed styles.

The family are originally from Palmerstown and their new shop is not too far away at 3 Vesey Terrace in Lucan village.

3 Vesey Terrace is a charming old world house and it has been fitted out with deep button red leather seats, reclaimed tiles, solid oak panelling and New York tin ceiling tiles.

OPENING HOURS ARE Monday - Wednesday 9.30 - 7, Thursday - Friday 9.30 - 8, Saturday 9 - 6 & Sunday 12 - 6

Special offers running in store.

You can see more information on www.graftonbarbers.com, FACEBOOK @thegraftonbarber, Twitter @GraftonBarber and Instagram @thegraftonbarber.

They are famous for bringing back the 'Royal Open Razor Shave' and have developed their own premium product range, which includes badger hair brushes, wax, polish, gels, creams and shaving oils.

Opened in 1993 by brothers Hugh and Conor McAllister, both of whom were involved in hairdressing on movie sets quickly noticed that there was nowhere male clients could go

The Grafton Barber new premises in Lucan

WIN A €50 BARBER VOUCHER TO USE IN THE GRAFTON BARBER, LUCAN.

We have four €50 Barber Vouchers to give away. to be in with a chance to win one, simply answer the question below and send it with your name and contact information by email to info@newsgroup.ie, Direct Message on Twitter @NewsgroupIRL or Private Message on www. facebook.com/newsgroup.ie Where is the new Grafton Barber located in Lucan? Competition closes on the 20th of December.

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O’CONNOR CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE FOR ST PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called on the Council to provide assistance to the Group organising a St Patrick’s Day Festival in Tallaght next March.

The Group announced their plans recently and meetings are taking place.

According to Charlie O’Connor he raised the matter at the meeting of Tallaght Area

Committee and received the following response from Council Management “Provision has been made in the 2017 budget to support Festivals in the County including St Patrick’s Day. Any organization/ group planning a celebration is advised to submit an application outlining the size, scope and funding proposals of the event to the Community Services Department for

processing. Contact has not yet been made regarding a festival in 2017.

Every effort will be made to continue to respond to requests for support from groups wishing to organize and develop activities/celebrations for St Patrick’s Day. The Community Team will make themselves available to meet with these interested groups/organizations to examine the

feasibility of these proposed events.

Organisers of events are however required to provide their own insurance cover.”

Charlie O’Connor added that it is important that the Tallaght Festival Group be given as much support as possible because the people of Tallaght would welcome a Tallaght Stadium event on St Patrick’s Day.

The Legal Column Romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of ROMAINE SCALLY AND COMPANY SOLICITORS,

Main Street , Tallaght, Dublin 24. TEL 01 4599 506 FAX 01 4599 510 email: legal@scally.ie to the North Pole melting and therefore Santa would have nowhere to make the toys or indeed to live with his helpers and reindeers.

We have tried to reassure him as best we can but we are wondering if you have heard anything about this?

In this special edition of the article for Christmas, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors, deals with very particular problems which relate to the festive season only and in particular problems which can arise during Santa’s deliveries.

We hope that readers find the information helpful.

As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally, Solicitors, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Telephone 4599506, Email – legal@scally.ie.

Q. Last year, Santa delivered a very welcome train set to our son.

Unfortunately however, Santa forgot the batteries and, as our son was up at 5.00 a.m. in the morning it was some hours before we could get batteries.

He was very upset and wrote to Santa after Christmas firstly, to thank him for the wonderful presents but secondly, to let Santa know that he had forgotten the batteries.

I just thought that I should let readers know that Santa can occasionally be forgetful about the smaller things and it is important for parents to check that Santa has not left without leaving batteries where necessary.

A. Thank you for sharing this information with readers. Although this incident put a temporary hold on your son’s excitement, none the less, it all worked out well in the end. It was very thoughtful of your son to write to Santa, not only to thank him for the presents but also to remind him of his forgetfulness about the batteries. I am glad that you have furnished this information to us as it will be a reminder to Santa should he read this article and indeed to parents to double check that Santa has indeed left all necessary batteries.

We wish you all a Happy Christmas.

Q. My 9 year old son has been learning about global warming at school.

However, instead of finding the information helpful, he is now very worried that global warming might lead

A. It is true to say that global warming has been in the news of recent times although we were not aware that schools were discussing the subject to young pupils. We do however have it on very good authority that there is no risk to the North Pole whatsoever with global warming. Santa’s magical powers not only extend to his ability to traverse the globe in one night but, also, extend to protecting his environment for himself, his helpers and reindeer. Indeed, we emailed Santa for a comment about this concern and his response indicated that he was quite amused at the suggestion that his home might be at risk. Rest assured therefore, that Santa and his home in the North Pole are safe for many years to come and neither your son nor any other children should have the slightest concerns about global warming extending to Santa’s Grotto in the North Pole. We hope that this helps to allay his concerns.

Q. My son has written to Santa Claus and he showed us the letter before he posted it. He said that his only wish for Christmas is that Santa would bring him back to the North Pole on Christmas night and he wants to work as a helper with Santa Claus. He tells us that he is going to stay awake all night to make sure that Santa takes him back to the North Pole with him.

He has even asked us to pack him a bag of very warm clothes to go with him.

We are not quite sure what to do about this or what to say.

Have you any suggestions.

A. Firstly, we have to say that your son should be commended for his unselfishness in asking only to work for Santa Claus. As you say, he has made no demands for presents at all. On receipt of this letter, we took the opportunity to write to Santa Claus and ask him if he was indeed recruiting any new helpers for the coming year. Santa wrote back to say that unfortunately, he has told us that he will not be recruiting for the foreseeable future.

Remember that Santa’s helpers work with him over many, many years and, as you can imagine, nobody wants to retire as Santa’s helper.

Therefore, there has not been a vacancy for many years and is unlikely to be one for many years to come.

Santa however, was most appreciative of the request from your son. He has added however, that he wants to impress upon your son the importance of getting a good night’s sleep on Christmas Eve so that he can deliver presents as usual but to let your son know that he will not be bringing any new recruits back to the North Pole with him. It seems from that response that Santa has something nice in store for your son as compensation for the disappointment in not being able to return to the North Pole with him.

Perhaps you might pass this message on to your son and hopefully he will get a good night’s sleep on Christmas Eve and wake up on Christmas morning to the sight of some welcome surprises under the tree.

We wish you all a Happy Christmas.

Q. We are travelling away as a family for the first time ever to spend Christmas with my sister in England.

My two children are very worried that Santa Clause may not be able to find them. What do you think we should do?

A. Let me reassure your children that this has never been a problem for Santa Claus. He knows where every child is. However, just to reassure your children, you might help them to write a letter to Santa Claus and in the letter put your address in England so that there is no doubt whatsoever in their minds but that Santa Claus will find them on Christmas Eve. We hope you have a most enjoyable Christmas in the UK. Q. My wife is a very keen cook although at time her cakes can be a little heavy. She has always left large slices of cake out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. Last year, Santa left a note advising that he had indigestion from eating the cake from the previous year and would she please just leave out a plain biscuit this year.

My wife was quite offended and is determined to try again to win over Santa Claus to her baking. She says that she has been watching the “Bake Off” with Mary Berry all year so her baking is now much improved.

Our children are quite nervous that Santa might be offended or, worse, sick. What do you think we should do?

A.

This is always tricky as nobody

wants to offend an enthusiastic cook.

However, Santa Claus has obviously made his feelings quite plain.

Perhaps this year when your wife practices the cake she intends to make, you might all taste it and give her an honest appraisal. If Santa Claus is used to eating cakes up to the Mary Berry standard then, he may indeed be quite hard to please.

However, you will know I am sure whether or not this new cake will meet with Santa’s approval. If so, then by all means go ahead and leave out a large slice and reassure your children that you firmly believe that Santa will enjoy this cake. If not, then perhaps you should seriously consider creeping down during the early hours of Christmas morning yourself, and disposing of the cake and replacing it with a plain biscuit. Santa has a very long night on Christmas Eve and certainly does not want to have the added complication of indigestion.

Alternatively, if you do not want to dispose of your wife’s cake then, perhaps, you might get the message across if you place a small bottle of milk of magnesia tablets beside the cake. Perhaps the message might become clearer if your wife see’s that! We hope you have an enjoyable Christmas.

Q. My wife and I live apart following a separation three years ago now.

I helped our two children to write a letter to Santa this year and noted that my son requested from Santa that both his parents would be together to open the presents on Christmas morning. This year, my wife will have the children on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Do you think there is anything I could do?

A. I think in a situation such as this where Christmas is all about children, you might show the letter to your wife before it is posted. It is quite common now for the parent who does not have the children over Christmas to attend at the house where the children are spending Christmas just for the couple of hours on Christmas morning when the children come down and open their presents. It is a very special time and does not last for many years. We find that most parents will do anything to keep their children happy on Christmas morning and such a request I am sure will be met favourably by your wife. As advised, it has become quite common and, where parents are on reasonably good terms should not pose any difficulty. We wish you the best of luck and hope that you and the children have a wonderful Christmas.

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

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20 DUBLIN CITY'S SECRET GARDEN BECOMES CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

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GIY AND ENERGIA TEAM UP TO ‘GET IRELAND GROWING’ WITH €70K FUND

GIY in partnership with Energia announce ‘Energia Get Ireland Growing’ a €70,000 pool of funding available to community and voluntary organisations who can, from now until January 20th 2017 apply for grants, which will enable them to start or further develop a community foodgrowing project in their area.

Gabriel Byrne of Fantasy Lights and Ciara Dowling of Dublin City Parks Department at the lighting up of one of Dublin’s hidden gems, the Blessington Basin, by Dublin City Council and Fantasy Lights.

The magical park, often referred to as Dublin’s Secret Garden, is set to become the keystone in a plan by the council to introduce a walking route from Glasnevin Cemetery all the way down to O’Connell Street. (Picture Conor McCabe Photography)

The Energia Get Ireland Growing Fund will be split across three categories, ‘Sow’, ‘Grow’ and ‘Harvest’ with awards ranging from €500 to €2,000.

Together GIY and Energia will support at least 85 community food growing groups from all across the country.

Launching the initiative today, the founder of GIY Michael Kelly said, “Energia Get Ireland Growing’ rewards

and celebrates the community champions who are putting food back at the heart of their communities.

These types of projects usually struggle to find funding and supports and we are delighted to partner with Energia on this shared vision to back incredible food growing initiatives with the 2017 fund.”

In addition to the funding provided, GIY also provides additional supports and opportunities for knowledge exchange between the projects, helping the best ideas to be shared through ‘Energia Get Ireland Growing’. All of the projects remain part of the GIY network in the long term, giving them access to other GIY resources and additional groups and projects within the network, creating a long-term legacy.

Energia have joined forces with GIY to back the 2017 fund to help deserving community groups to progress their visionary projects next year.

Commenting at the launch, “Geoff Codd, Head of Marketing at Energia said, “Sustainability is central to everything Energia does. That’s why we’ve invested €300m in new wind farms since 2008 and we’re the only energy supplier to provide 100% ‘green’ energy to Irish homes for the last three years in a row. So, we’re delighted to support smart and sustainable living through Energia Get Ireland Growing.

Growing your own fruit and veg and living healthily and sustainably are clearly clever choices” The funding pool is now open to any community

group, school, NGO or Not for Profit, community garden or allotment group, GIY group, hospital, crèche, direct provision centre, men’s shed or any group who grows their own food, or wants to grow food and wants to promote growing food. The deadline for applications is the end of January 2017 and applications can be made online via www. giyinternational.org/ energia-get-irelandgrowing.html GIY’s ‘Get Ireland Growing’ initiative has supported over 400 community food growing projects to date, positively impacting over 100,000 people. €270,000 has been awarded over the last four years and this was distributed to projects all across the country.

Some of these flagship

projects include, a food growing initiave in a young persons probation centre in Cork; the istallation of food gardens at Focus Ireland and Galway Simon; an edible quayside project in Co Wexford, which has seen tomatoes flourishing on the railings at the New Ross quayside, a vegetable garden for asylum seekers in Clonakilty, Co Cork, a horticultural project for unemployed men in Waterford that supplies salads to restaurants and a community garden to reduce isolation on Inishbofin island to name but a few.

For further details and to submit an application for ‘Get Ireland Growing’ 2017 see www. giyinternational.org/ energia-get-irelandgrowing.html

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LUCAN CHARTERED SURVEYOR HAS BEEN APPOINTED TO THE BOARD OF REAL ESTATE ALLIANCE (REA)

Barry McDonald of REA McDonald in Lucan was appointed at REA’s AGM in Dungarvan last week where Frank Daly, Chairman of NAMA, addressed the meeting on the future direction of NAMA and housing supply REA is Ireland’s leading property group of Chartered Surveyors with over 55 branches nationwide, comprising many of the country’s longest-established auctioneers and estate agents.

Real Estate Alliance (REA) members are reporting a marked increase in sales activity across the country and not just in the major cities but also in provincial towns.

While Dublin and the commuter areas are starting to recover from the stagnation caused by the Central Bank’s mortgage deposit restrictions, the biggest rise in activity is being seen in Ireland’s smaller urban towns where the deposit requirement is not as significant.

“Throughout the country, our agents are seeing a definite rise in enquiries, with demand increasing further in quarter four,” said Barry McDonald.

“Our REA Average House Price survey saw the average three-bed semi rise above €200,000 in our Quarter Three survey – this level of return is now providing as a

catalyst to get dormant developers returning to the market with muchneeded supply.

“Time taken to sell has reduced by two weeks to five weeks in country areas in the three months to the end of September and our agents are reporting a definite increase in mortgage approvals.

“The Central Bank mortgage deposit rules did not hit the country market as hard as the larger cities as the amount of the deposit required is less.

“For the first time in eight years, the majority of our offices are seeing builders looking for development land across Ireland.

“As well as available

finance having a major impact on housing supply, a second hurdle is the provision of serviced land.

“Although buyers are now more plentiful on the ground, the problem of supply remains.

“Interestingly, our agents are now reporting that development land is returning to the market for sale, with builders showing much greater appreciation for the modern buyer's needs.

“REA agents are actively engaging with developers to advise as the requirements of new home buyers.

“We welcome the latest announcement by The Minister for Housing,

Planning, Community and Local Government to fast-track the delivery of 30,000 new homes in urban centres across the country.

“In particular we are

A leading South African Judge visiting Dublin has underlined the key role of an independent judiciary for the rule of law and the protection

of constitutional rights. Constitutional Court Justice Edwin Cameron was speaking at the annual lecture of FLAC (Free Legal

Advice Centre). At the same event, FLAC’s Chairperson Peter Ward voiced concern about recent attacks on the judiciary and

their implications for democracy.

recounted how South Africa has changed from an apartheid legal system that excluded, subordinated and humiliated most South Africans to one that is built on the opposite ideals. “The story is how a legal system calculated to thwart access to justice is evolving into one designed to secure it and to safeguard human dignity and basic human rights, with increasing social justice for all.

An important part of that story is how nongovernmental legal service organisations - like FLAC - played a crucial part in the transition and still do,” he said.

in favour of the fasttracking of residential housing schemes and the identification of significant land holdings for potential development.

“Overall, we expect that the market outside Dublin will appreciate by circa 10% over the next year – greatly influenced by the lack of supply.”

REA board members (L-R) Barry McDonald, Eamonn Spratt and Eoin Dillon.

FLAC: Key role for judiciary in a legal system that safeguards basic rights and dignity for all In his lecture, Justice Cameron, who is a gay man living with HIV,

LOCAL RATHCOOLE BASED BUSINESSMAN PICKS UP BEST BUSINESS AWARD 2016

Pictured is Eamonn Elders of Creation Station, based in Rathcoole, picking up an award for Best Wholesale / Manufacturing Business 2016. Also pictured are Paul Fagan, MD ActionCOACH Business Coaching, and local Business Coach Rory Smyth from ActionCOACH Business Coaching.

Eamonn has been working with ActionCOACH for over 12 months and in that time they have help him to significantly grow and develop his business. If you would like to find out about how coaching help grow your business, email ireland@actioncoach.com or call 01 891 6220.

Creation Station is a very unique company. They are proud to create ideas for clients that want something different, and bring them to life. Whether a point of sale display, a corporate interior to impactful themed retail fit outs – they are always inventing, and re-inventing both themselves and their clients brands and identity. If you want something different to help your brand stand out from the crowd, contact them to discuss your requirements. Contact: info@creationstation.ie or call 014586000.

Introducing the judge, FLAC Chairperson FLAC Peter Ward said he was “an inspiration to all of us who believe in the central and vital role of an independent judiciary in a constitutional democracy as something to be valued and protected.”

Given this key role of the judiciary as an independent arm of government, Mr Ward expressed grave concern at recent attacks by Minister

Shane Ross on the Irish judiciary. As an organisation seeking to widen access to justice, FLAC had always supported the need for a diverse judiciary that reflects society and thus supported the need for reform, said Mr Ward. However, Minister Ross had accused the judiciary of resisting reform that was required because judges could not be trusted not to forget their oath, of being ‘masters of delay’, of leading ‘charmed lives’ and living in a protected citadel, which Mr Ward described as “Trumpedup charges”.

Characterising the remarks as being gratuitously offensive and factually incorrect, Mr Ward said what was more worrying was “the attempt to validate, at the highest political level, offensive and undermining remarks about another pillar of government which can only serve to undermine it in the public eye.

“We must be willing to reassert the central role in our institutions of state of an independent judiciary who must be recognised and supported as such.

We depend on them

to play the vital role accorded to them under our Constitution and they must be free, independent and fearless in that role.

We must also be willing to speak out in defence of these core principles and value when they are under attack,” said Mr Ward.

FLAC holds its lecture annually in memory of Dave Ellis, a community lawyer and activist.

Remembering Dave, FLAC Chief Executive Eilis Barry said he saw law as a system of values: “Dave believed that a healthy democracy requires equality and inclusion.

It needs a government and legal system that works for all and not just elites.”

“Dave would undoubtedly stand full-square behind the values represented by our speaker, Justice Cameron, tonight.

He stood for human dignity and equality for all, where diversity is a strength. He would have contested values based on oppression, exclusion and dominance. We in FLAC are proud to remember him today,” she concluded.

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GRADUATE NURSES FROM TALLAGHT HOSPITAL TAKE UP PERMANENT POSTS ● Learning and Development Centre key in maintaining ongoing staff development ● Retaining staff that trained at Tallaght maintains high standard of patient care

2016 Bsc Cur Graduates in General Nursing pictured with CEO Tallaght Hospital David Slevin, Director of Nursing Hilary Daly, Nurse Practice Development Co-Ordinator (Adults) Shauna Ennis and Siobhan Connors Nurse Practice Development Co-Ordinator (Paediatrics) Tallaght Hospital is celebrating the graduation of its 85 nursing students, with all graduates from the 2016 class who trained at Tallaght being offered permanent positions, enhancing patient care. The graduation took place at a ceremony on Thursday, December 8th.

Six winners for the Cli nical Lecturer in Nursing Award were also announced on the day, these included: Suzanne Foxton, CNM2 Emergency Department; Sheila Wall, CNM1 Recovery; Niamh Eagle, Staff Nurse Ruttle Ward; Larry Untoy, Staff Nurse Lane Ward; Emma Nolan,

Staff Nurse Oak Ward and Michelle Crummy, CNM2 Maple Ward.

The Recruitment and Retention Package, which aims to support the ongoing development of all of the staff within Tallaght Hospital, was devised by Nurse Practice Development in 2015. The package includes interview skills workshops, a bespoke induction programme, a clinical skills workshop, access to the Centre of Learning & Development, career coaching, a buddy system, staffing in the area of choice and monthly meetings for the Newly Qualified Nurses to reflect and share their

experiences on the wards, the hospital is also supporting the newly registered nurses to assist with the transition to their new roles with a Clinical Facilitator for a three month period.

Speaking at the graduation Hilary Daly, Director of Nursing said: “Nurses are an integral part of the care we provide for patients at Tallaght Hospital the accountability and responsibility that nurses hold in their positions of care of patients was emphasised at the graduation.

The relationship nurses have with their

patients should be cherished, nurtured and respected it is a lifelong commitment. With regard to recruitment at Tallaght Hospital we are committed to retaining our student staff nurses by offering them career opportunities within the hospital as part of the Recruitment and Retention Package – in this we offer our staff opportunities for continued learning and opportunities to develop their careers with us.

The success of this programme is a testament to the level of work being undertaken in this area at Tallaght Hospital.”

ROBOTS, IMPOSSIBLE MUSIC AND THE END OF THE WORLD: WHAT TO EXPECT AT SCIENCE GALLERY DUBLIN IN 2017

Can artificial intelligence really do your job better than you? What does an impossible instrument sound like? Should we be worried that the end of the world can be… entertaining?

In 2017, Science Gallery at Trinity College Dublin will be answering all of these questions and more, as they announced their ambitious exhibitions

programme for 2017.

Senator Lynn Ruane, Vice Provost and Chief Academic Officer of Trinity College Dublin Professor Chris Morash and Science Gallery Dublin director Lynn Scarff launched the programme of three new compelling themes for 2017.

Also speaking at the launch was student Hasshim Gopee, a local

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resident and member of the mediator team at Science Gallery Dublin who first came to the gallery as a student in C.B.S. Westland Row, and a participatiant in one of the gallery’s Transition Year education programmes.

He spoke of the importance of the gallery in informing his decision to study and pursue a career in science.

the city centre through outreach programmes, as well as continuing their activities in their headquarters in Lincoln Place.

visitors will become performers alongside hackers, designers and scientists, inventing new instruments, new sounds and scores.

In addition to the current exhibition — DESIGN AND VIOLENCE — which will run until 22nd January next year, Science Gallery Dublin also announced three new compelling themes to run in 2017:

In September, COLLAPSE will examine what fascinates us about societies, ecosystems, and economies crashing, and why the catastrophic can be devilishly entertaining.

The gallery has plans to expand their educational programme in 2017 with the development of their MAKESHOP programme.

This will provide workshops and training to young people beyond

In February, HUMANS NEED NOT APPLY will examine automation, the rise of robots and artificial intelligence.

MAKE NOISE, opening in June, will be an interactive show where

Speaking ahead of the launch, director of Science Gallery Dublin, Lynn Scarff, said “In 2017, Science Gallery at Trinity College Dublin will continue to create compelling experiences designed to provoke conversation,

engaging with a wideranging community of individuals from different backgrounds, perspectives and expertise. This year, we are planning more activities to reach beyond our building and engage with audiences locally, nationally and globally. More than ever, we believe we need to demonstrate how the merging of art and science within cultural practice can provide a platform for conversation and greater understanding — and be a safe space to try on potential futures.”

Science Dublin’s

Gallery programme

manager Ian Brunswick also spoke about the development of the MAKESHOP programme ahead of the launch: “In 2017, MAKESHOP will reach more people than ever before.

An extensive yearlong programme of nationwide school visits, combined with offsite and onsite activities, drop-in workshops and low-cost classes will cater for the curious and creative across the country, providing a lowbarrier introduction to the exciting potential of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) and the art of making.”

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Miriam O’Shea Slimming World Bohernabreena 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: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Wednesday mornings: 9:30am.

Mobile: 085 1484669 Sharon Daly Slimming World Citywest Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Co. Dublin Times: Wednesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm.

Mobile: 085 1402870 Pauline Slimming World Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel, 1st Floor, Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday evenings 5.30pm & 7.30pm Thursday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm.

(New 9.30am group from 2nd Jan ’17) Mobile: 085 7704751

Sharon Daly Slimming World Jobstown/ Brookfield Brookfield Youth & Community Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1402870 Sharon Daly Slimming World Kingswood Kingswood Community Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Thursdays 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 Mobile: 085 1484669 Sharon Coleman Slimming World Kilinarden Knockmore Junior School Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings 7:30pm (New 5.30pm group from 3rd Jan ’17) Mobile: 085 710 3660

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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. Christine 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.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. A.E. MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible.

Never known to fail. Also thanks to St. Martin, St. Therese, St. Padro Pio, St. Gerard, Holy Angels and St. Anthony. P.W.

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. J.R. As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the last few years including NCBI Solas Centre in Clondalkin, Tir na nOg (Cheeverstown House) and Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice .

These charities have all been involved in providing vital services to children with special needs and their families.

We would like to thank all readers who have supported our chosen charities to date and while we will still be supporting Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice going forward, we are delighted to support The Irish Pilgrimage Trust.

5992), and for over 40 years the Trust has been travelling on pilgrimage/ holiday to Lourdes with young people with special needs, from all over Ireland.

The Trust has over 1100 people travelling at Easter time and it is divided into small groups of approx 10 young people and 12 volunteer carers who stay in one of the many Hotels in Lourdes .

In June we bring a group of 110 people to Hosanna House in Lourdes for what is a unique experience both Carer and Guest.

We have two facilities in Kilcuan, Co. Galway and Cois Cuain, Co. Wexford each offering different opportunities.

Both facilities provide Friendship weeks during the Summer.

Application forms are available from our Office at 091 796622.

For more information on the Irish Pilgrimage Trust please contact us at 091 796622 or Email info@ irishpilgrimagetrust. com or visit our web page on http://www. irishpilgrimagetrust.com for more information..

If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque made payable to The Irish Pilgrimage Trust and send it, along with your Novena to: Newsgroup, Unit 3, Floor 2, St. Dominic’s Shopping Centre, St Dominic’s Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24

STRESS AND THE IMMUNE SYSTEM The average adult feels stressed for five and a half years of their life

A recent study commissioned by A.Vogel to explore the impact of stress on immunity has found that the average adult feels stressed for five and a half years of their life.

The study of 2,000 adults found being late for something and running out of time are most likely to cause us stress, followed by getting stuck in traffic and health issues for yourself or family members. Meeting deadlines, not being able to afford things, weight gain, cold calls and debt complete the top ten.

Sixty-three per cent of people even claim to have had days where they have felt stressed from the moment they woke up until they go to sleep at the end of the day.

Money, overbearing workloads and relationship problems are among the things most likely to cause us stress, followed by birthdays and Christmas and having to deal with the in-laws. It also emerged we are most stressed at the age of 36, with some so badly affected by it, it has led to sleepless nights and even a health problem. Dr Margaret Ritchie, Associate Lecturer: University of the West of Scotland said: ‘When our bodies experience stress, especially ongoing stress which the survey highlights, it affects the biochemistry

and simply put, causes inflammation that impacts on our immunity resulting in our body being more susceptible to flu and colds as winter settles in.”

Other common causes of stress include queuing for a long time, computer problems, arguments with a partner and automated phone systems. Road works, moving house, self-service checkouts and dogs barking are also among the top 50 causes of stress.

Unfortunately, for 81 per cent of people, stress has been so bad that they have lost sleep; an average of five nights in the past month. It also emerged that 62 per cent of people have been so stressed it has affected their health, resulting in 31 per cent of people taking time off work. More than one in ten have been signed off for a short period of time, whilst another one in ten have been signed off long-term. And one in four have even quit a job because they found it too stressful. Sixty-seven per cent of people even believe their body reacts physically to stress, causing them to suffer more headaches, stomach discomfort, colds, skin flare ups and sore throats.

Researchers found stress has caused 31 per cent of people to make a mistake at work while another 45

per cent say it has led to arguments with a partner.

Others have cancelled a night out with friends, shouted at or told off their children more than usual, and gone off sex.

Dr Megan Arroll advises: “Deep breathing through the diaphragm will trigger the parasympathetic nervous system and bring the body and mind back into balance following stress. Breathe in slowly for a count of 3 and then exhale for a count of 3.

When you inhale make sure that your stomach rises rather than your chest – then your tummy should dip on the exhale. It’s useful also to repeat the word ‘calm’ during this breathing exercise. Do this daily so that it becomes a habit.

“Stress can be a result of overburdening ourselves so don’t feel you need to do everything, all the time – prioritise yourself as it’s impossible to care for others if you’re burnt out. We are often better at showing understanding and compassion to pretty much anyone else but ourselves so practise being kind to you. This means saying no, having some rest time and perhaps most importantly, not berating ourselves for trivial matters. We all have an inner critic but this voice can be dampened by selfcompassion.”

MIATI Conferring Ceremony

If you require any further information call us on 087 6535443.

We are appealing to you our loyal newspaper readers to show your generosity in helping us to support an equally worthy charity, The Irish Pilgrimage Trust.

The Irish Pilgrimage Trust is a registered charity in Ireland (Charity Number:

Monica Chrobak, Walkinstown, Baiba Liepina, Tallaght and Margaret Hesnan Lucan, who were conferred as Members of Accounting Technicians Ireland at a ceremony at the Talbot Hotel in Dublin as well as receiving their Diploma for Accounting Technicians.

(Picture: Kenneth O’Halloran)

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Entertainment Guide

With

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

Covering ● Tallaght ● Clondalkin ● Lucan ● Rathcoole ● Saggart ● Newcastle TOP FIVE FILMS – SANTA With Christmas, just days away and Santa Claus busily making lists and checking them twice what better time to gather the family around for a festive movie.

The man in the red suit is the subject of our Top Five Films this week with Santa taking centre stage and bring the magic of Christmas to all ages.

There is joy, laughter and a few tears and with so many different Santa stories in our top selections there really is something for everyone.

So, sit back and prepare to believe in the magic of Christmas with our Top Five Films – Santa…

1. Miracle on 34th Street – There are few people who will not have heard of this moving and magic film which will make even the hardest of hearts believe. A six-year-old girl is beginning to doubt the things she has always believed in but after meeting a department store Santa she starts to reconsider. It is up to her and a slick lawyer to prove that the man in red is who he says he is.

2. Bad Santa – An irreverent and sometimes vulgar take on the Christmas tale, but

one that has a hopeful message at the heart of it. Willie is a miserable conman who works as a Santa during the holidays, all the while waiting to rob the store he is stationed at on Christmas Eve. His not so trusty sidekick, Marcus, works as an elf and is sick of Willie’s drinking and ineptitude. They plan their heist but when Willie gets distracted and a kid latches onto him it looks as though the duo might be caught.

Will it be a Merry Christmas for all? Lots of laughs but not very family-friendly.

3. Santa Claus: The Movie – This film is as close to pantomime as you can get. An elf who wants to improve the toy industry heads to New York City where a toy tycoon plans to take advantage of his good nature. Santa Claus is the only one who can rescue the elf and save Christmas.

Over-the-top performances and classic one-liners make this a brilliantly nostalgic Christmas movie.

4. Fred Claus – The story of Santa’s lesser known brother, Fred, who has always lived in the big man’s shadow. Never living up to his brother’s huge

reputation has made Fred very cynical.

However, when the North Pole comes under threat from a Christmas official Fred realises what is at stake and tries to help Santa pass the inspection – but will he do more harm than good?

5. The Santa Clause – Another classic take on the Santa story this brilliant family film comes with plenty of sequels. This movie is all about Christmas magic and the true meaning of Christmas. After divorcee Scott Calvin accidentally kills Santa he follows instructions to put on the Santa suit and unwittingly becomes Kris Kringle, delivering toys across the town and growing a big white beard overnight. Can he cope with the stress to give his son the most magical Christmas ever?

Lots to choose from in the run up to December 25th when Santa Claus makes his long journey across the globe to deliver toys to girls and boys.

So grab the family, make some popcorn and enjoy spending time together this festive season.

A scene from Fred Claus

LAST MINUTE GIFT GUIDE - ALL UNDER €20 • Personalised Nutella – Having your name on something will never get old which is why these jars are so popular. A great stocking filler for friends and family – particularly if they can never find their name on anything. Available

at Brown Thomas.

• Game of Thrones Colouring Book – Fans of the series will be thrilled to see their favourite characters and scenes depicted in great detail. Plus, colouring is therapeutic so an ideal option for the stressed

out GoT fan in your life.

Available from Urban Outfitters.

• Dice Cubes – An ice tray that makes the cubes tiny frozen dice. Brilliant and functional for the holiday season. Available in Debenhams.

• Donuts – As last-minute gifts go this one is pretty easy and pretty satisfying.

If you are on a budget you cannot go wrong with a box of gourmet donuts which come in packs of three, six, 12 and 18. Available to order from The Rolling Donut.

• Cinematic Light Box – These cool retro gadgets are right back in style and are more popular than ever. Create your own message to shine through the box. Available in lots of stores including B Cool and Eurogiant.

•Family Photo Shoot – Get the whole family together and make memories that

will last forever with a professional photo shoot.

There are plenty of deals online but True Shot Photography in Park West have a special deal which includes an A4 print for just €19.

• Rhythm Sticks – Electronic drumsticks that will make a musical genius of you. Three different settings mean you can tap away all day. Available from Littlewoods Ireland.

• Edible Lick Bubbles – Transform any drink into edible bubbles with this five-pack starter kit. Each bottle contains safe, edible, non-toxic bubble liquid and space to top up with your

favourite drink. Available at Fire Box. • Build-A-Boombox Speaker – This item really is old meets new as the retro boombox is given a smart phone speaker makeover.

You build the internal amplifier and then house it in the makeshift boombox.

Available from Littlewoods Ireland.

• Hotel Chocolat Christmas Baubles – This divine chocolatier has created a range of special chocolate gifts for every taste. These cute chocolate baubles have the perfect festive feel.

Available online from Hotel Chocolat.

CENTURIUM – THE LAND OF CREEDON A unique and innovative approach to writing and music makes Jobstown native Denis Thompson stand out from the crowd.

This week the talented author releases his first book, Centurium – The Land of Creedon, along with a full album of music to go along with the children’s fantasy story.

The album compliments the character’s journey through the book but can also be listened to as a standalone offering.

Centurium – The Land of Creedon tells the story of Nathan, a young boy who has been plagued by scary, confusing and exciting recurring dreams all his life.

The one thing that these dreams have in common is that Nathan has absolutely no idea what they are about but they seem so real with frogs as big as dogs, giant slugs and creatures with horns that stretch back like handlebars.

His dream world also contains screaming birds that soar through the sky, monsters made of rock, trees a million feet tall and voices that boom in the night – but what does it all mean?

Although he cannot figure it all out Nathan knows there is something more to his dreams and things start to make sense when he is visited by a strange little creature in the middle of the night.

Nathan was never meant to see this creature but when he captures it he finds that his recurring dreams may not in fact be dreams at all but the key to his destiny and the place he is meant to be.

This realisation starts Nathan on a whole new scary, confusing and exciting adventure that could truly change everything.

Alongside his two best friends, Ben and Ellie, and his eccentric headmaster, Mr Melrick, Nathan unlocks

a world far beyond his imagination; and he is taken on a quest not just to uncover it – but to save it.

Thompson has created a fantasy world that will enthral and excite young readers who will want to take every step with Nathan as he goes on this fantastical journey.

Centurium – The Land of Creedon was released on Monday by Irish publisher Emu Ink and is available now by visiting www. emuink.ie.

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