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6th. FEB. 2017 Tel: 01 451 3822 / 01 451 9000

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CARERS APPLICATION DENIAL A NEW LOW

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has described the Department of Social Welfare’s response to one of his constituent’s application for Carers Allowance as lacking any credibility and feeling.

The Sinn Féin TD said that Patrick Mulligan, his constituent from Tallaght, who made an application for a Carers Allowance, had been told in a reply that he didn’t fit the criteria.

The reply stated that Patricia, the woman for whom he is giving the fulltime care, did

not “require fulltime care and attention as currently laid down in the Carers Allowance legislation.”

Patricia is a seriously ill woman who is currently a patient and receiving palliative care from Our Lady’s Hospice in Harold’s Cross and is visited at her home in Tallaght by their specialist nurses.

Deputy Seán Crowe said: “I am decades working with various State and Government Departments, and Ministers, on behalf of my constituents. I should not be surprised

by their replies, but I was shocked and enraged after reading the official correspondence and stock reply from the Department of Social Protection received by Patrick Mulligan.

“To suggest, as the letter did, that Patricia was not ill enough to require full time care is quite frankly insulting, ignores the facts, and lacked any scintilla of credibility. Patricia has cancer and is receiving palliative assistance from Our Lady’s Hospice in Harold’s Cross. This decision is downright

wrong and it confirms that the current system of Social Protection is broken and not fit for purpose.

“On reading the D e p a r t m e n t ’s correspondence I asked Patrick to appeal the decision. I told him I would go directly to the Minister for Social Protection, Leo Vardakar, to draw his attention to this awful decision thinking that there might be some mistake in the original Carers application.

“I personally spoke to the Minister about the case and followed it up by handing in a letter to his office outlining my immediate concerns, particularly around Patricia’s health and her obvious need for fulltime care.

“Patricia has breast cancer which has spread to her lymph nodes and now down in to her spine. She has been fighting cancer for over 10 years and I can only imagine the difficulties that she has had to confront throughout her illness. The last thing she needs at the moment is additional worries about her fulltime care needs.

“Patrick is a close friend of Patricia’s and financially I don’t know

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THE SCAM OF PROPERTY MIS-SELLING HAS TO BE CONFRONTED BY EU CONSUMER PROTECTION

Fine Gael Dublin MEP Brian Hayes has called on the EU Commission to bring forward binding EU Consumer protection in the area of property transactions.

“While we have EU consumer law in the area of financial services or for airline passengers, it’s bizarre that literally no protection is offered to people who buy homes on false pretences.

We either have a single market or we don’t - but the crime of mis-selling or false advertising on property needs to be included in basic EU consumer protection law,” he said.

“This follows the case of 35 Irish property owners who have lost significantly from properties purchased in France. There are many other horrendous cases all

CARERS APPLICATION DENIAL A NEW LOW..........FROM PAGE 1 how he is still able to keep going.

“Patrick appealed the original decision to deny him a Carers Allowance. I had asked the Minister, given the terminal nature of the illness, if the appeal could be fast tracked.

“That has happened and he has now got the Carers Allowance.

“This case is another example of the problems facing all those poor unfortunates who are caught up in a system that clearly isn’t responding in a timely manner to

vulnerable citizen’s needs.

People have to rely on a TDs representation to get their entitlements.

“The current system is clearly indifferent to the plight of some of our most vulnerable citizens. It’s a system and an approach that has to change. I believe, based on cases like this and many others, that we only see genuine change when those in power share a genuine desire to bring about a more just and inclusive society.”

across the EU, but what’s unique about this is that the Irish group concerned is taking its case to the French Courts, or possibly to the European Court of Justice if they do not get redress.

“French leaseback properties were sold on the basis of false and misleading information.

From French banks to local property agents to Irish national newspapers people were GUARANTEED a rental income in every advertisement concerning the sale of the properties.

Not only has the rental income not transpired, but the value of the properties has plummeted. The matter will now come before the French Courts in the coming months.

“The operating costs of these developments were significantly underestimated, which allowed the viability of these resorts to be misrepresented to purchasers at the point of sale. As happened in Ireland before the property crash, the builders and the property management companies involved all went

into receivership as owners were left with little or no rent to pay the associated mortgages. These operators have re-emerged in different parts of France, starting the process all over again with the next group of unwitting investors.

“Contrary to initial advice and information provided at the point of purchase, purchasers are now also tied into commercial leases that go on forever unless “eviction compensation” is paid to the lessees - this information was never included in the original lease.

“Because the property prices have more than halved, French banks can potentially seek a repossession and consequently put family homes at risk in Ireland, as all finance was arranged with French banks who were tied into the original sale.

“This case highlights the need for a European response to protecting people who purchase property abroad.

Too many people across the EU have been burnt by the complete lack of protection.

This has to change.”

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NEW FIGURES SHOW GOVERNMENT SMASHED TARGET FOR REDUCING LONG-TERM UNEMPLOYMENT IN 2016 BY 34% Over 26,000 long term unemployed secured employment last year Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar has welcomed new figures showing significant progress in tackling long-term unemployment in 2016, with the Government exceeding its own target to help 20,000 people back into employment by an additional 6,000 people.

“Long-term unemployment is usually the most difficult issue to tackle in joblessness, so it’s particularly significant that we exceeded our targets

in 2016 by 34%. Long-term unemployment fell by 18% during 2016, faster than the overall fall in unemployment of 13%. And the long-term unemployment rate of 4.2% is now less than half its peak level of 9.5% from 2012,” Minister Varadkar said.

“These figures show that the tailored approach taken by the Government is working. These range from one-to-one advice, support and mentoring through the Intreo and Jobpath services,

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employment activation schemes like Community Employment, subsidies paid to employers to take on people who are long-term unemployed like JobsPlus, or set up their own business like the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance.

“I am determined to make more changes for the better this year to ensure that the benefits of economic recovery are felt by every individual, household and region in the country through reduced unemployment, higher living standards and enhanced social protection.”

In previous economic recoveries, the long-term unemployed jobseekers tended to be left behind, with long-term unemployment levels remaining high.

That’s why reducing longterm unemployment is a priority in the Government’s PathWays to Work strategy.

The Minister has set out new objectives for 2017 to build on this progress: · Help another 20,000 people move from welfare into work; · Develop a Working Family

Payment to make work more attractive for families currently on welfare; · Implement an Action Plan for Jobless Families to zero in on long-term unemployment; · Launch a new work experience programme to replace the JobBridge scheme that was closed in 2016; · Recalibrate labour activation schemes like CE and TÚS to focus on those farthest from the labour market; · Intensify our engagement with employers and boost the take up of JobPlus, and the Wage Subsidy Scheme for employees with disabilities; · Promote and make access to the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance easier; · Work with other Government departments to overcome the barriers to work including the cost of childcare, transport, education and housing; · Increase the number of employers participating in the Department’s long-term unemployment and youth activation charter to over 600.

COVENEY’S MOVE ON CLLRS PAY AND EXPENSES WELCOME, BUT MUST APPLY TO ALL Sinn Féin spokesperson on Local Government Eoin Ó Broin TD has welcomed Minister Simon Coveney’s ‘modest increases to the pay and expenses’ of Councillors, but called on the Minister to ‘ensure that any changes apply to all elected members’. Deputy Ó Broin also welcomed the move to a ‘vouched system of claiming expenses’.

Deputy Ó Broin said: “Councillors currently earn an annual salary of roughly €16,000 per year. They can also claim unvouched expenses of between €3,000 and €5,000 per year. An increasing number of local councillors are full time public officials and many in rural Ireland cover large geographical areas.

“If we want to move to a situation where our local councillors are truly full time professional local representatives, we need to provide them with increased powers and remuneration to match their level of work and responsibility.

“In this context, I welcome the modest changes that Minister Coveney has announced. Giving local councillors an additional €1000 per year is a small recognition of the work undertaken by these women and men for their local communities. While not providing an adequate wage, it at least a step in the right direction.

“Increasing the expenses payment by €2000 per year for fully vouched expenses is also a sensible way to ensure that Councillors reasonable expenses are paid while being fully transparent and accountable through vouching.

“It is also important that any changes to the pay and expenses of Councillors be applied to all local councillors.

It would be unacceptable for these increases only to apply to one group of Councillors and not to others.

“We have one of the weakest systems of local government in the EU. We expect our elected representatives to be full time professional politicians, yet only pay them parttime wages. If we want local government to work in the best interests of local people, we need to give it the power and the resources it needs.”

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CREDIT UNIONS COULD INTRODUCE COMPETITION AND LOWER INTEREST RATES IN DUBLIN MORTGAGE MARKET

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Dublin has said that Credit Unions have the potential to offer badly needed competition in the mortgage market in Dublin but that Central Bank rules on lending restrictions will need to change to allow this to happen.

Deputy Lahart was commenting on news of an initiative from the Credit Union sector to assist member Credit Unions move into the mortgage market.

“Credit Unions are operating in a difficult trading environment at the moment with a collapse in investment returns, onerous regulation and insufficient lending activity.

“A small number of Credit Unions are currently offering mortgages but they are severely constrained by the lending restrictions which

allow a Credit Union to lend a maximum of 10% of its loan book over a period of greater than ten years,” added the Deputy.

“In reality, for an individual Credit Union, this restriction means that even lending a small number of mortgages will bring them up to their 10% restriction very quickly.

Given the investment that Credit Unions have to make to move properly into the space of mortgage lending, this lending restriction effectively stops them in their tracks.

“Engaging in longer term lending such as mortgages offers many advantages for Credit Unions including greater stability around their income levels.

“The government seems to have little regard for the Credit Union movement and has done nothing practical to assist the growth and

development of the sector.

This is at a time when our banks continue to charge excessive mortgage interest rates. The State should be doing more to encourage new entrants, such as the Credit Unions, to the mortgage market.

“If the Central Bank were to support the introduction of more competition against the established banks, those hoping to own their own home in Dublin could potentially be charged lower, more affordable interest rates.

“In effect, Credit Unions have the capacity to introduce more prospective home owners into the market. I will be pressing the Minister on this and other housing related issues in the Dáil in the coming weeks.”

John Lahart TD

ISPCC CONCERNS AT FAILURE OF STATE FOSTER CARE SERVICES TO MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS The ISPCC has expressed concern that a HIQA inspection report on a statutory foster care service in Dublin South West, Kildare West and Wicklow found that of 26 service Standards, only ten standards were met, 14 required improvement and two were of significant concern, with child protection issues raised.

The IPSCC welcomes the aspects of the report which noted that a number of elements of this service were delivered in an effective manner and children were cared for with affection and their welfare promoted.

However, there are a number of areas of concern outlined in the report, including: Not all children had an allocated social worker and the systems in place to ensure unallocated children received statutory visits was not sufficient.

Not all young people were receiving an aftercare service in line with Tusla policy and relative assessments were not completed in a timely manner.

“INSUFFICIENT SUPPORTS WERE PROVIDED TO ALL FOSTER CARERS AND SIGNIFICANTLY, REVIEWS OF FOSTER CARERS DID NOT OCCUR ROUTINELY.” Immediate action was taken when necessary to protect children but a number of improvements were required regarding measures in place to safeguard and protect children from abuse.

Some child protection concerns were not assessed in a timely manner in line with Children First (2011): National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, and allegations of abuse were not always managed in a timely manner The classification of concerns about foster carers into either an allegation or a complaint did not comprehensively capture child welfare concerns and it was not documented that these welfare concerns were consistently notified to the foster care committee.

ISPCC Chief Executive Grainia Long stated: “This

HIQA inspection took place in October 2016 and follows a pattern of similar inspections held in 2016, that these minimum required standards are not being met in a way that children accessing these services have a right to expect. In particular, the issue of staffing is of an ongoing concern and consistently referred to throughout inspection reports.

We welcome the fact that there are references to posts having being approved for future recruitment and it is extremely important that improvements that are promised are evident in reports of this nature throughout 2017.

“We need to ensure that these children are protected to the best of the State’s ability and as the report demonstrates, improvements are required in service provision, and there is a need to ensure social work services are fully resourced so that every child has an allocated social worker and timely access to the supports that they need.”

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ALMOST 20% OF OVERSEAS ENQUIRIES ABOUT IRISH PROPERTY ARE NOW COMING FROM THE UNITED STATES “Almost 20% of overseas enquiries about Irish property are now coming from the United States, from a negligible base two years ago, according to a Real Estate Alliance nationwide survey.

“Property buyers from the US are increasingly securing homes and investment properties in Ireland, buoyed by a strong dollar and the lure of a resurgent economy for emigrants,” said Anthony McGee.

locations – especially Canada.

“78% of our members report an increase in enquiries from overseas in the last year, with the average agent seeing a 22% rise in calls from outside Ireland.

“Real Estate Alliance are offering Irish property vendors the chance to take advantage of this mini-boom by registering for our upcoming Irish Property Exhibition in Boston.”

“The resurgent economy is having a positive effect on the market with the number of overseas buyers enquiring about moving to live and work in Ireland rising by 9% over the past year.”

Overseas calls now make up 18% of all enquiries across the REA group.

“The average house price in the US in November 2016 was $365,200 (€341,739), compared to our Average House Price survey national value of $216,856 (€202,926), so there is obvious value for American buyers in Ireland.

“Our agents around the country report that enquiries from the UK have dipped by a third since the Brexit vote, and the attendant fall in the value of sterling against the Euro.

“But while the UK still forms 37% of our overseas business, 19.6% is coming from the US, 18% from Australia, 15% from mainland Europe and 11% from other

“The biggest rises were seen in calls from Irish emigrants planning to return from Australia, which increased from 11% in 2015 to 18% in 2016.

The first group to pioneer Irish sales in the US, REA are bringing thousands of properties to Boston, giving a host of US buyers the chance to browse in comfort and talk to the experts on the ground.

The exhibition takes place in the Lenox Hotel, Boston from 5-8pm on March 23.

Last year REA brought the first Irish property exhibition to the US and met with 425 potential buyers in New York.

32% of the attendees were Irish families looking to return home,

Anthony McGee 19% were retirees looking to downsize, and 17% were young Irish people returning to work.

5% of attendees were searching for a holiday home and another 3% were keen to buy a second home with ties to family in Ireland.

A survey of attendees also found that 16% were investors while 8% were US-based people who have homes in Ireland and were looking for them to be either sold or managed.

Real Estate Alliance (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.

If you would like more information or wish to register your property please contact Anthony McGee of REA McGee in Tallaght village or email anthony@reamcgee.ie.

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ACTION DEMANDED ON KINGSWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called on Richard Bruton TD, the Minister for Education and Skills to explain what is going on in respect of the Permanent Building Programme for Kingswood Community College which is currently operating in prefabs.

It was always understood that the permanent building would be available for pupils in 2018 but information has recently emerged that the building will not now be ready for occupation until September 2019.

According to Charlie O’Connor he is most anxious to represent the concerns of the local community which have been articulated by the Kingswood Heights Residents Association.

In its statement on the matter the Kingswood Heights Residents Association have said that “Residents in Kingswood received an update through their door about the progress of the tender phase of the build. However, as far as KHRA are aware the tender has not been submitted and they are even further

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behind then indicated in correspondence (which also stated the building should be ready in Sept 19, which is almost a year after the original announced date).”

Charlie O’Connor was also told by the Association that “Parents need to know the full and accurate facts about the progress of the project so that they can make an informed decision about where to send their children to school. A delay in the construction is bad enough, but to be misinformed about the project progression means parents are making very important decisions for their children based on wrong information. The parents need to be able to distinguish between dates for the expansion of

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The local councilor also raised the matter at the January meeting of the Tallaght Area Committee and members agreed, on Charlie O’Connor’s proposal that the Chief Executive write to the Chief Executive of Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board seeking an update on

O’CONNOR WELCOMES NEW WORKS

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has welcomed confirmation from the Council that provision has been made by the Chief Executive in the 2017 budget for the carrying out of small improvement works in parks and open space areas around the County.

The list is as follows and was confirmed at the January meeting of the Tallaght Area Committee

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temporary buildings and the completion of permanent structures.”

The matter has now been the subject of correspondence

by Charlie O’Connor to the Minister demanding clarification. He had also written on two occasions to the CEO, Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board but received no response to date.

Pitch improvements Re-orientate pitch at Tymon Park beside Colaiste de hIde €40,000 New pathway Pathway from Tallaght leisure centre into jobstown Park (adjacent to ORR) €20,000l Drainage works Carry out drainage works at Butler McGee park on St Marks GAA pitches €40,000

Public lighting provision Provision of a public light on the open space at Alderwood and Virginia Heights at the location where a new footpath has recently been provided €15,000 Park improvements Install seating in Kiltalown Park €5,000 New footpath Provide a footpath across the Open Space from Lanndale Lawns to Ambervale towards the Luas stop €20,000 Hedge planting Plant hedge along the boundary fence separating Kilnamanagh from the Belgard Road €12,000 According to Charlie O’Connor these works will be welcomed by the communities involved and he added that he will be asking the Council to ensure that they are carried out as soon as possible.

plans for the development of the permanent building for Kingswood Community College and also asking for assurances in respect of concerns expressed

by Kingswood Residents Association that the

Permanent Building Programme should not be the subject of any delays.

Charlie O’Connor added that this is an important issue for the local community who need to know the exact position.

Assurance sought from Minister on implementation of Help-to-Buy Fianna Fáil TD, Jack Chambers has said there is a lack of clarity on the inner workings of the Help-toBuy scheme and has called on the Minister to more clearly explain details for applicants.

The Help-to-Buy scheme introduced by the Minister for Finance in Budget 2017 is designed to help first time buyers meet tougher deposit requirements under Central Bank mortgage lending rules. Applications from first-time home buyers for financial support under the government’s measure opened earlier this month.

“I recently questioned the Minister on a persistent issue faced by first time buyers, whereby developers are delaying passing on the relevant information to the Revenue Commissioners to have part of their deposit released back to them,” added the Fianna Fáil TD. “Such delays are causing undue stress for first-time buyers, particularly my own generation, who require the portion of the deposit to be returned to cover the cost of other aspects of the house buying process.

“The scheme is by no means a panacea to the woes faced by prospective first time buyers. I fear that the true motivation behind the scheme was for the Minister to be seen to be doing something rather than making a real difference.

“Speaking to many firsttime buyers, as well as other home owners, they are concerned about the scheme’s impact on house prices and that price levels are growing to reflect the grant.

“There is new evidence to suggest that it is creating additional price pressures in the housing market with 8% growth in 2016 and anticipated 8-10% in 2017. It remains to be seen whether or not it will boost the supply of houses, as the government had initially hoped.

The predicted impact on the acceleration in house prices over the coming months comes amid newly published figures from Daft. ie that indicate the number of properties for sale nationwide this month, has fallen to a 10-year low.

“While Dublin requires a minimum 15,000 new homes this year to meet current demand, less than one third of the level of the houses needed (4,000) have been built.

“It is disheartening that the government’s Housing Action Plan is not working to increase supply, as very little has been done to tackle the most significant barriers to new construction. More clarity and awareness is required so that all those eligible will no longer be dissuade from availing of the scheme,” concluded Deputy Chambers.

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MINISTER FAILING TO DELIVER ON COMMITMENT TO ESTABLISH MOTOR INSURANCE DATABASE - Premiums continuing to soar as Govt drags its feet on the issue -

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West has said that the Government is failing to establish a properly functioning motor insurance database with the insurance industry to show who is insured and who is not. This

database has the potential to significantly reduce the price of insurance premiums.

Since January 2011 the cost of car insurance has rocketed, with business customers needing to insure cars, vans or fleets faring

even worse. In 2016, motor insurance costs increased by an annual rate of 11.6%, in 2015 they rose by 30.8%, and in the 12 months to August 2016 there was a jump of 28%.

“Over the past number

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of years, we have seen extraordinary premium increases and despite the issue generating interest in the media, the Government has been slow to take any action to address the problem.

“I have raised the need to urgently progress the establishment of a properly functioning motor insurance database with the Minister on number of occasions over the past 11 months,” said the Fianna Fáil TD. “In May 2016 I was informed of the Minister’s plans to form a motor insurance database with the insurance industry to show the insured status of persons, in order

to reduce premiums for all motorists. The following September I was assured that the database would be ready for use by early 2017.

“In my most recent Parliamentary Question, the Minister states that the database will now only be ready for testing by the end of September 2017.

“The establishment of this database is critical to enabling An Garda Siochana to better check and enforce motor insurance compliance which will assist in reducing the level of uninsured driving.

“Uninsured drivers cost the industry and insured drivers €50 to €60 million approx

per annum, yet the Minister has shown a complete lack of interest on this matter despite it affecting every insured driver nationwide,” he added.

“It has taken the Government too long to wake up to the problem; there is no sense of urgency and this is deeply worrying for the thousands of motorists in which will see their premiums rise again over the coming days, weeks and months.

“The Government is simply not giving this crisis the attention it needs so that the rip-off culture which has perpetrated the insurance industry over the last few years is effectively tackled”.

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DublinTown launches app designed to guide motorists to their car park or hotel of choice in Dublin City Centre

Finding parking in the city is being made easier with a new app from DublinTown that provides motorists with the most direct route to their chosen carpark or hotel.

The DublinTown parking app is regularly updated with temporary road closures, diversions and roadworks currently happening in the city or due to happen.

Unique features to the app include push notifications alerting the user of ongoing and upcoming traffic changes or diversions.

The idea behind the app is for commuters to see the available space in carparks and hotels before planning the best route to their destination using the

regularly updated built-in maps.

The DublinTown parking app has been developed by DublinTown in collaboration with Dublin City Council, the National Transport Authority

and the city’s carparks and hotels.

Speaking about the DublinTown Parking app, Richard Guiney CEO DublinTown said “Dublin City Centre is currently undergoing significant infrastructural changes. The

Luas Cross City will be a great addition to the city but it is leading to permanent changes to traffic flow for cars in the city. The city is and will remain very much open and accessible to all forms of transport including cars, however, there is a need to educate the public how to get to their chosen destination. The DublinTown parking app will do just that.

Unlike other traffic aids the DublinTown parking app will be regularly updated to take account of roadworks and diversions and permanent changes such as the College Green bus gate.”

The DublinTown parking app is free to download on both iOS and Android platforms.

Valentines Menu

Tamara Restaurant Belgard Sq. 4 Course Set Meal for €30,00 pp Tallaght Dublin 24 To include choice of one appetiser, Open 7 days and one main course and one dessert

Join us for Live Music on Friday 10th February with

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The All-New Honda Civic giveaway of €10,000

EU MUST DELIVER ON INCOME INEQUALITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

Speaking in the European Parliament on the European Pillar of Social Rights, Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan has called for the European Union to draft an EPSR that delivers in a manner that will combat poverty, income inequality and other serious social injustices.

Dublin MEP Boylan said: “If the EPSR is to be successful and deliver on its stated aims, then it has to represent what the citizens of Europe need and want.

“It is my hope that through

In conjunction with the “Guess the Snowflake Competition” Universal Honda gifted €5,000 to the Dublin Simon Community as part of their “Powering Local Dreams” Project, which celebrated over 30yrs of the Honda brand in Ireland. Adrian Cole Managing Director Universal Honda Ltd. Pictured at Universal Honda Headquarters Citywest were Annmarie Brennan Dublin Simon Community, Thomas Whelan 98FM, Alison Canavan Brand Ambassador Universal Honda Ltd.and John Saunders Sales and Marketing Director Universal Honda Ltd.(Pic Patrick O’Leary)

TWEET OF THE WEEK

by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly An important message from JIGSAW about taking care of your mental health in 2017.

Be active; walk, run, dance. Stay connected with family and friends; talk to somebody. Be sure to listen to your mind and body and pay attention to your mental health.

SITUATION VACANT McHALE PLANT SALES

are recruiting a Night Cleaner for our Rathcoole, Dublin office on a part time, permanent basis.

Hours are Monday-Friday evenings, rate of pay is €12/HR. Previous experience is preferred.

To apply please send CVs to recruitment@mchaleplant.com

the contributions made by the European Parliament, social partners, and civil society that the EPSR can be aligned so as to guarantee social rights in the manner that citizens deserve, and in a manner that will combat poverty, income inequality and other serious social injustices.

“It is time the EU works to ensure that social policy is not considered a burden to economic growth, but rather the two are considered to be symbiotic. I hope that the EPSR will achieve this.

“The EPSR provides a great chance for the EU to move in a new direction, to prove it has the capability to change post in how the union works post-Brexit.

“Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that the European Union does not let European citizens down and that it seizes the opportunity which the EPSR presents.

“However, if the EU proves incapable of change and it continues in a business as usual manner, then European citizens will suffer

further and the EU will be the recruiter in chief for euro scepticism.”

Lynn Boylan MEP

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REPAIR AND LEASING SCHEME HAS CAPACITY TO HELP ALLEVIATE HOUSING CRISIS

Fianna Fáil TD in Dublin Mid-West and Chair of the Committee for Housing and Homelessness, John Curran has said every effort must be made to ensure idle properties are brought back into the market.

The Repair and Lease scheme is designed to make vacant private properties in need of renovation capable of being rented for social housing or to those in receipt of housing assistance payments (HAP).

“From my work as Chair of the Committee for Housing and Homelessness it became apparent that when there

are so many critically in need of housing, the number of vacant properties could make a significant impact on alleviating the current high demand,” explained the Deputy.

“It only makes sense that measures are introduced to get vacant properties that are laying empty at the moment, back into the system and put longterm leases in place to provide extra social housing nationwide.

“Initially, €6 million in funding was allocated to refurbish 150 properties in 2017, yet there is

somewhere in the region of 200,000 vacant properties nationally and upwards of 40,000 in the greater Dublin area.

“The Repair and Leasing Scheme is a quick solution but should only operate in parallel with the construction of new builds.

The development of new homes alone will not meet the present and increasing demand on housing. We must therefore prioritise and expand the scheme refurbishment in order to bring additional properties back into use quickly.

“The Minister has informed

me in the Dáil that new targets set to increase the number of social houses more quickly by getting vacant properties back into the system, will be announced in the next couple of weeks.

A new target will require an increase in spend, and I hope that all additional resources necessary are allocated to house any homeless person or family in need of State support.

“The figures are shameful and at this critical stage we must not lose momentum towards achieving a longterm solution to this housing crisis, once and for all.

HUGELY SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN FOR PETER MCVERRY TRUST

As a result of the campaign, Meaghers has successfully raised €25,600 for Peter McVerry Trust. This translates into 5,666 beds for a night. The team at Peter McVerry Trust and Fr Peter himself were delighted and overwhelmed by the generosity that the campaign generated.

Pictured: Oonagh O’ Hagan with Peter McVerry (Pic Patrick O’Leary)

PEACHTREE EAST IS MORE THAN JUST A TOP CLASS RESTAURANT, COFFEE HOUSE AND VENUE – IT IS AN ETHOS, A WAY OF LIFE AND A LEGACY!

There is a special m enu available for Valent ine’s Day. Early booking advised!

by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly

For the owners and staff Peachtree East is more than just a top class restaurant, coffee house and venue – it is an ethos, a way of life and a legacy.

The team at Peachtree East is led by decorated chef and owner Paul Phillips and there is constant innovation, creativity and great food behind everything that they do.

Together with his staff Paul is always trying to come up with dishes that will catch

the imagination but tasty food is at the forefront of the Peachtree ethos.

Paul said: “Myself, Derek, Jens and the team are constantly prototyping ideas and trying them out until we end up with a new dish.

“We usually start with our protein and wrap it around seasonal ingredients like Winter greens or Spring veg then we look at the texture so we might add in something crisp and maybe a puree so the textures are

At Peachtree East there is constant innovation, creativity and great food behind everything that they do

different – but it is like a high-wire act, it can seem gimmicky so nutrition, the taste and the look of the food comes first. We do have some quirky dishes but we try to make them relevant.”

Some of the dishes will appear on the menu as specials from time to time and some will stay around for a bit longer but using fresh, seasonal ingredients is the key for the team.

The name Peachtree East is an ode to a close friend who passed away before the restaurant opened last year and owner Paul is proud of the work that they have done so far.

He said: “We are open since August 2016 and it has been a bit of a whirlwind.

We have lots of different clientele; people from the council, doctors from the hospital, lads coming in from the gym and families having lunch with babies.

People have embraced it and the engagement we get from people on social media is great.”

The restaurant prides itself on being a welcome space for people from all walks of life and Paul believes that “food transcends all classes”.

With famous faces like Al Porter, Suzanne Jackson, Jon Kenny and Paddy Holohan trying out the restaurant in the last three months Peachtree East is earning quite the reputation but Paul explained that at the Tallaght eatery “everyone is

Paul Phillips and his team at Peahctree East. a VIP”.

He said: “It was amazing to have those people in but honestly everyone is a VIP to us, I cater for whoever on the menu – whether you only have the money to buy one course or you are spending a fortune; everyone is welcome at Peachtree East.”

The Tallaght venue is also offering private hire options at the impressive upstairs cocktail bar as well as offsite catering and opens from 8am daily with specific lunch and dinner times.

There is a special menu available for Valentine’s Day which includes duck

breast, fillet of beef and the impressive chocolate melting ball with an orange twist.

To inquire about private hiring or catering contact peachtreeeast@gmail.com

or call the restaurant on 014139965.

Peachtree East are also on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram showcasing their innovative dishes.

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U4, Royal Liver Retail Park Old Naas Road, Dublin 12 Tel: 01 4298841 Open 10am - 6pm Monday - Saturday 12 - 6pm Sunday and Bank Holidays

New Showroom Located At: W8F Toughers Business Park, Laytown, Naas. Tel: 045 409059

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MOTION ON TRACKER MORTGAGES WELCOMED

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, welcomed his party’s Private Members Motion on Tracker Mortgages, which was moved in the Dáil.

The motion calls for a strict deadline for redress and compensation to the victims of the scandal.

It also calls for greater cooperation between An Garda Síochana, the Central Bank and the Office of the Director for Corporate Enforcement, to hold those responsible for the scandal to account. The Government must bring forward legislation to ensure that individuals in financial institutions can be held accountable for white collar crime.

Deputy Seán Crowe said: “The antics of an influential section of the Irish banking profession have rarely been out of the headlines over the last number of years, and for all the wrong reasons.

“Taxpayers and many banks customers received a raw deal, and scandal after scandal has left many of them incensed at the light touch regulation in the profession.

“The appalling treatment of approximately 15,000 customers that fell into arrears because they were denied a cheaper option of a tracker mortgage on their variable loan is another blatant example.

“I welcome that my party, Sinn Féin, used our Private Members time to call for a comprehensive redress scheme that will begin to work for all those customers affected by tracker mortgages and within a strict deadline.

“This scandal brings back into the light how weak our laws are when it comes to tackling white collar crime.

The gaps in our white collar crime legislation make it difficult to

pin down individuals for their responsibility in scandals like this.

Our motion calls for a new approach to white collar crime so that those who caused these scandals can be held accountable, not just as a corporation, but as individuals who are directly responsible for these criminal acts.

“We know that up to 15,000 families have been victims of this abuse by banks right across the sector yet many of these same banks are still stringing the families along with pro-forma letters each month with no new information and no offers of compensation.

“Many customers were placed under huge pressure with many falling into arrears trying to pay the additional money on their mortgages, sometimes amounting to several hundred Euros a month, which they had not expected

or budgeted for.

“To compound this hurt, some Banks challenged customers who received a favourable decision by the courts, and went as far as the costly Supreme Court before they withdrew their defence.

“Our motion also calls on the on the Central Bank of Ireland, An Garda Síochána and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement to co-operate, with a view to establishing if individuals as well as corporate entities can be held accountable for their part in this scandal.

“The Central Bank has been tardy in acting and calling for a full examination. Its attempts to pursue the banks in order to clean up the mess they made for their customers has been lacklustre.

“I’m calling on all parties to support this important Sinn Féin motion.”

NATIONAL COMMEMORATION DATE FOR GREAT FAMINE IN PROGRESS Fine Gael TD for Dublin South-West, Colm Brophy suggests the second Sunday in May for a national commemoration day of the Great Famine

Fine Gael TD for Dublin SouthWest, Colm Brophy, has introduced a Bill to set a date for a national commemoration of the Great Famine.

“The National Famine Commemoration Day is one of three national commemoration days held in Ireland every year.

The Famine Commemoration event is the only one that does not have a fixed date in the calendar.

“We have a fixed date to commemorate Easter 1916 and one to commemorate all those who died in other wars on behalf of our county. However, when it comes to what is, perhaps, our

country’s greatest tragedy; it is somehow deemed not important enough to be marked by a permanent date in our calendar.

This is no longer acceptable.

“We need a fixed date for a number of reasons. It will allow everyone to work towards the commemoration, on a yearly basis, and allows schools to make it part of the school curriculum.

A permanent date, to which people could plan ahead, would also allow more of the Irish diaspora to visit Ireland and attend the commemoration each year, which would be very fitting considering the impact the Famine had on emigration.

“There needs to be a change in our mentality when it comes to commemorating this momentous and terrible moment in our history. I feel that setting a fixed and permanent date in our diaries to remember and honour all those lost their lives would be a very positive step. The date I suggest in my Bill is the second Sunday in May.” “Since my election to Dáil Éireann last year I have raised this matter several times. I am delighted to now be in a position to have published a Bill which will enshrine the remembrance of this heart-breaking era in Irish history into law.”

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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 Caroline Mulhall Slimming World Kilnamanagh Kilnamanagh Community Centre Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday mornings: 9.00am & 11.00am Wednesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 086 3057043 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 **** Venue Address Changed Slimming World Citywest Citywest Educate Together School (Opposite Saggart LUAS stop) 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: Thursday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm.

Mobile: 085 7704751

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Sharon Daly Slimming World Jobstown/ Brookfield Brookfield Youth & Community Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1402870

Sharon Coleman Slimming World Kilinarden Knockmore Junior School Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 710 3660

Sharon Daly Slimming World Kingswood Kingswood Community Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Thursdays Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1402870

Cherie Slimming World Lucan Chinese Gospel Church, Esker House, Esker Road, Lucan, Co. Dublin.

Times: Thursdays 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm & 7:30pm.

Friday mornings 9:30am Mobile: 085 1008666

Sandra Maxwell Slimming World Maldron Hotel Tallaght Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Friday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 085 1484669 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 Noeleen Herbage Slimming Word Templeogue St. Marys Rugby Club Templeville Road, Templeogue, Dublin 6W. Times: Wednesdays 9:30am, 11:30am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm.

Thursday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 085 749 9296

Deirdre Slimming World Ballyboden St. Enda’s GAA Club Firhouse Road, Ballyboden, Dublin 16 Times: Monday Evenings: 5.30pm & 7:30pm.

Mobile: 086 8466807 Lorraine Barron Slimming World Rathcoole Main Street (Courthouse) Rathcoole, Co Dublin.

Times: Monday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 087 9380943 Christine Murphy Slimming World Tallaght Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel Belgard Road Tallaght Dublin 24 Times: Saturday Mornings: 10am Mobile: 086 088 5142

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NATIONAL LEARNING NETWORK HELPS TALLAGHT WOMAN TO DISCOVER HER LOVE FOR CULINARY ARTS Two years ago catering student Susan Farrelly (23) was unsure what direction to take in life. Since completing her Leaving Certificate, the Tallaght woman had been in and out of courses before discovering her love for culinary arts with the National Learning Network (NLN).

Next week, Susan will start her first full time job working in a hotel kitchen.

“I’ve been out of school for six years now and have been doing a lot of courses, but none of them suited me,” says Susan.

“I went to college and studied office skills for a few weeks, but it just wasn’t for me.

I lose concentration if I’m sitting in a class all day, whereas in the kitchen I am on my feet and feeling motivated.

“When I first started the NLN course I was the newbie and didn’t know anybody.

But within two days I had made friends. Nobody made me feel uncomfortable, all the students and staff were really welcoming.”

The kitchen inside the NLN Tallaght centre is fully operational and delicious lunches, ranging from chilli con carne to pasta bakes, are cooked up by the culinary students and served to both staff and students.

up, get out’ and keep myself busy and motivated. Don’t just sit around.”

“The best part is getting up in the morning, coming into the kitchen, serving the customers and knowing they are happy with our food,” says Susan.

As she nears the end of the course, Susan is beaming with pride after landing a job in the hotel catering industry.

After requesting work experience with a hotel, the management were impressed with her skills and offered her a full-time job.

“This will be my first proper job. I don’t want to be on the welfare anymore, I don’t want to be a job seeker. I want to be out working. If I didn’t do this course I think I would be still looking for a job, still looking to get a qualification.

“This course has changed my life. Before I started this course I would just be sitting at home and feeling sorry for myself. Now I’m like ‘get

“Within five years I want to be a chef and be up there with the likes of Gordon Ramsey….NLN has given me that chance,” added Susan.

Susan Farrelly

RECYCLE IT - SHORTLISTED FOR GREEN AWARD 2017

The finalists have been announced for the Green Awards 2017. The awards are the long-standing benchmark for excellence and are great recognition for many different types of organisations demonstrating best green practice in Ireland.

Recycle IT is one of over sixty organisations who have made the shortlist across twenty-five categories with the winners announced at the gala ceremony on February 21st 2017 at the

Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin.

The Green Awards recognise organisations of all shapes and sizes and the shortlist highlights the true breadth of green entries all of which work daily to help keep Ireland green. Recycle IT are delighted to have been shortlisted in the category NGO of the Year 2017 along with five other organisations.

About Recycle IT. Recycle IT is a not for profit social enterprise providing collection and

drop off services for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). During 2016 Recycle IT offered collection services to 100,000 homes, schools, NGO’s and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas. Recycling services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and supported

by Pobal and South Dublin County Council.

Recycle IT are authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities in Dublin Kildare and Wicklow.

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HOUSING CRISIS: MINISTER MUST GET TOUGH ON LAND HOARDERS

Sinn Féin Republican Youth are calling on the Construction Industry Federation to release land banks immediately so that it can be used for housing. With the current housing market in a state of emergency, the disclosure of such space would allow for the building of social and affordable housing.

CIF are deliberately starving the housing market in order to continue using zoned land as a political football to play with Government policy.

Minister for Housing Simon Coveney needs to begin immediate talks with the CIF in order to discuss the release of such land banks, given that the number

of people in emergency accommodation continues to rise on a daily basis.

The latest homeless figures published by the Department of Housing this week show yet another increase in the number of people in emergency accommodation.

December saw 4,643 adults were in emergency accommodation, an increase of 207 people on November.

For the first time since these figures were collated, we now have more than 7,000 people in emergency accommodation.

Furthermore, this comes at a time when over 100,000 citizens find themselves on housing waiting lists and

private rents continue to spiral out of control.

Senator Fintan Warfield, National Chair of Sinn Féin Republican Youth, said: “The property market has been stifled for young people between property speculation, out of control rents, vulture funds precluding first time buyers and a rise in unregulated Airbnb lettings. The lack of regulation and state investment in social housing means that young people are being frozen out of the property market.

“Land banking is a form of property speculation that seeks to yield as much profit for new builds and subsequently drive up house

prices and out of the hands of young people. We are

calling on Minister Coveney to start building large scale

public housing now as a matter of urgency.”

Councillor Shane O’Brien and Senator Fintant Warfield with protesters outside the CIF building, Dublin

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

damage as these investigations can take a little bit of time to resolve.

You can rest assured however that there should be no need whatsoever to include your friend in any claim which flows from your injuries. We wish you a speedy recovery.

In this edition of the paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co. Solicitors, deals with the matter of Accidents. As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally & Co, Solicitors, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Telephone 4599506, Email – legal@scally.ie.

Q: I was involved in a car accident recently while a passenger in my friend’s car. Her car was hit from behind by an oncoming vehicle. I was injured but I would not like to involve my friend in any case. Would I have to sue her?

A: Firstly, we are sorry to hear that you have been involved in an accident as a result of which you have been injured.

Hopefully, you will go on to make a good and speedy recovery. To answer your question, from the facts you have disclosed there should be no need to involve your friend in any claim. Your friend will undoubtedly have completed an accident claim form for her Insurance Company already. Hopefully the third party driver who collided with the rear of your friend’s car will also have done so.

Both Insurance Companies will consider the facts and, from what you have said, the Insurance Company for the Driver who crashed into her car will accept responsibility for all damages and injuries resulting from this accident. You should keep in touch with your friend regarding the process of her own claim for car

Q: I was getting into the lift at work recently when the door closed very suddenly on me before I got fully into the lift. I hurt my left shoulder badly. I am not sure whether to bring a claim or not but obviously do not want to do so if I have no hope of succeeding. Would I have a claim for personal injuries?

A: Firstly, we are sorry to hear about your injury. The weight of a lift door banging into your shoulder could be very painful indeed. To answer your question about a possible claim, this very much depends on the working of the lift. It seems to us that there is no way any lift door should close on anybody getting into the lift. However, detailed instructions would have to be taken. Is there a possibility that you were rushing into the lift while it was in the process of closing? We would strongly recommend that you seek legal advice before you commence any action as it is always important when considering suing an Employer to consider the consequences of the case being unsuccessful. It is important to commence an action only in the circumstances where the outcome is likely to be favourable. You should therefore make an appointment to see a Solicitor as soon as possible.

Q: I was walking along the path in a Shopping Centre recently while checking my phone and I ended up walking into an open boot door of a car. The door was protruding into the footpath although I didn’t see as I was checking my phone. I hit my head an awful knock and was very badly bruised.

Would I have any claim?

email: legal@scally.ie

A: Believe it or not this happens more often than you think. Car owners are responsible for injuries caused to pedestrians irrespective as to whether or not the car is moving. You were lawfully walking along a footpath within a shopping centre and were doing nothing untoward.

However, it is likely that you would be found guilty of some contributory negligence. What this means is that if the case were to proceed to a Hearing in Court, a Judge may well find that the car owner was negligent in leaving the car boot open and extending into the area were pedestrians are expected to be but, at the same time, they might find you partially responsible for not looking where you were going. Your contribution towards negligence could vary anywhere between 15% and 30%. What this would mean therefore is that if a Judge were to award damages of €7,000.00 for example, you could lose a percentage up to 30% for failing to take care of your own safety thus reducing the damages by €2,100.00 resulting in damages of €4,900.00. These are only guidelines but it is a possible outcome. We suggest that you speak to a Solicitor as soon as possible.

Q: My six year old daughter was injured when playing on a swing in the local public park. One of the ropes broke on the swing and she fell to the ground. She was badly bruised and very shocked. Would I have a claim for her?

A: This was a very unfortunate accident and certainly should not have happened. We hope that your daughter goes on to make a speedy recovery and can put this frightening episode behind her. There is no question but that you do have a legitimate claim against the Local Authority. Your daughter cannot be held in any way responsible for this accident. The purpose of having swings in a public park is to encourage children to use them. For that reason, they should be maintained properly and this was obviously not the

case here. It is important however that you make a complaint as soon as possible to your Local Authority putting them on notice of this claim. Apart from anything else it is important that the swing is properly repaired. Thereafter, you should consult with a Solicitor for the purposes of commencing an action. We hope that this has been helpful.

Q: My mother has Dementia and is in a Nursing Home. I was informed recently she had fallen out of her bed and broken her hip. She now has to have a hip replacement. This is a big operation for anyone in their 80’s but particularly with Alzheimer’s. Would I have a claim against the Nursing Home?

A: This was a very unfortunate accident and one which I am quite sure nobody wished to happen. Hopefully, the surgery will be successful and your mother will be able to return to her Nursing Home for convalescence. As to whether or not you have a claim, it would be important to discuss the facts in greater detail with a Solicitor. Generally speaking, for residents with cognitive impairment there are barriers on the bed to prevent residents falling out of them. It would be important to seek an appointment with the Manager of the Nursing Home to ascertain exactly how this unfortunate accident happened. It could well be just one of those things which happen for which nobody is at fault. Detailed notes are generally kept on all patients by the staff and I am sure the Manager will have these in his or her possession when discussing the facts of this accident with you.

We would suggest therefore that rather than jump to conclusions you would give the Nursing Home an opportunity to explain exactly how this accident happened and thereafter, armed with the facts, you might consider a consultation with a Solicitor to consider a possible action on behalf of your mother.

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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WIN WIN WIN WITH NEWSGROUP

Ahead of the launch of 3Dental’s new expansion next week we have teamed up with the Naas Road dentist to offer our readers a very special prize.

To be in with a chance to win a professional Scale and Polish with our experienced hygienist as well as an essential dental hamper, just answer the following question - Where is 3Dental located?

Send your answer, along with your name and contact number to info@newsgroup. ie by Monday 13th of February and one winner will be selected at random.

Terms and conditions apply.

NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION RISES YET AGAIN

Sinn Féin housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD has once again called on Minister for Housing Simon Coveney to speed up the delivery of social housing to meet the growing number of people in emergency accommodation. The call comes as the Department of Housing published the December homeless figures showing yet another increase in the number of people in emergency accommodation.

Deputy Ó Broin said: “The latest homeless figures published by the Department of Housing show yet another

increase in the number of people in emergency accommodation.

“On that month 4643 adults were in emergency accommodation, an increase of 207 people on November.

“The number of families in emergency accommodation has remained at 1205 but the number of children has dropped by 44 to 2505.

“For the first time since these figures were collated we now have more than 7000 in Department of Housing funded emergency accommodation.

“This figure does not

include adults and children in Tusla funded domestic violence emergency accommodation, non-Irish nationals in emergency accommodation funded by the New Communities Unit of the Department of Social Protection or the 400 families trapped in Direct Provision despite having their Stamp 4 visas.

“Meanwhile the Government refuses to fully fund the purchase of up to 1000 houses offered for sale

by AIB and PTSB. To date funding has only been approved for 200 of these

units and contracts signed on only 30.

“Minister Coveney keeps telling us that money is not a problem in tackling the homeless crisis. Yet houses for sale that could house homeless families are not being bought.

“The Minister needs to either put his money where is mouth is and buy these 1000 units or explain to the Dáil the reasons why he has chosen not to take families out of emergency accommodation and put them into houses that tonight are lying empty.”

INCREASED AWARENESS NEEDED AS IRELAND PLACES IN THE TOP FIVE IN THE WORLD FOR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION DURING PREGNANCY

Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, has called for increased awareness and education on the dangers of consuming alcohol during pregnancy, in the hopes of decreasing the number of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) cases in Ireland.

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Noone highlighted the fact that FAS is easily preventable.

“I have raised the issue of alcohol consumption in the Seanad on a number of occasions as it is an issue that seems to affect Ireland at a higher level than our European counterparts.

“A recent study carried out by The Lancet places Ireland in the top five countries of the world in terms of estimated alcohol intake during pregnancy. The study came to this conclusion following the discovery that 60% of Irish births

show evidence of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

“It has been estimated that one in every 67 mothers who consumes alcohol during pregnancy will deliver a child with Foetal Alcohol Syndrome.

“FAS can cause problems with neurological development and growth, which may result in numerous issues such as learning disabilities for children later in life.

“These findings are alarming, but preventing FAS is quite easily achievable as it is directly linked to alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

“Therefore, I am calling on the Minister to work towards increased awareness and education for expecting mothers on the dangers of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, in the aim to decrease the number of FAS cases in Ireland.”

THE SOLUTION TO TRAVELLING ABROAD FOR DENTAL WORK

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

RED COW HOUSE, NAAS ROAD, DUBLIN 22

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

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South Dublin entrepreneurs compete at Regional Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur Competition (IBYE)

Three young entrepreneurs from South Dublin went head-to-head with entrepreneurs from Dublin City, Fingal and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown at the Regional Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition.

Local Enterprise Office South Dublin were represented at this year’s Regional Final by: · Darragh Mason, age 35 of Dublin Mountain Design, Boden Park (Best Business Idea Category). · Aonghus Shortt, age 31 of Food Marble, Glendown, Templeogue (Best Start-Up Business Category). · Kyle McLoughlin, age 26 of Irish Garage Equipment, Rathcoole (Best Established Business Category).

The three category winners who have gone forward to the National Final were announced by the Minister for Employment and Small Business, Mr. Pat Breen T.D. The three national finalists who were selected by the judging panel are: Brian Henderson, Baon Diagnostics, from Dublin City in the Best Business Idea

Category, Samuel Dennigan, Strong Roots, from Dublin City in the Best Start-Up Category and Ciary Clancy, Beats Medical, from Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown in the Best Established Business Category.

These young entrepreneurs now have the opportunity, along with 21 other national finalists, to become Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur and share in a €100,000 winners’ investment fund.

Speaking at the IBYE Regional Final, Minister Breen T.D. said: “IBYE is not just a competition, it is a training ground to guide and mentor young entrepreneurs through all the stages of developing and sustaining a business. The aim of the initiative is to support a culture of entrepreneurship among young people, to promote entrepreneurship as a career choice, and to encourage young people to set up new businesses which will ultimately create and sustain jobs. What we have witnessed here this evening is the proof that the entrepreneurial spirit is

THE STROKE SUPPORT GROUP is for people who have had a stroke, their family and carers. It provides information about Stroke.

There are different speakers and topics every month.

There is also time for tea & coffee and a chat with others.

VENUE: County Library Tallaght Dublin 24.

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

THE GROUP IS ON THE THIRD TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH:

21ST 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.

alive and well across Fingal, Dublin City, South Dublin and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.

We need more of this energy and commitment in order to create and sustain more jobs across the regions”.

He added: “I want to congratulate the winners here tonight and to all of you who entered the competition through the four Local Enterprise Offices in Dublin. It takes courage and commitment to start up a business. I hope that your participation in IBYE has set you on a path to continued success. We should all look forward to the final with great enthusiasm and I wish all three category winners the very best of luck at the National Final on 5th March.”

Colm Ward, the Head of Local Enterprise Office South Dublin, congratulated the local entrepreneurs, saying: “Our search to find and support Ireland’s best young entrepreneurs, which started last September, has turned up some incredible business talent. Our local entrepreneurs are the business leaders of the future and the entrants in the competition have all shown innovation and drive.

After a very successful bootcamp, County Final

and now Regional Final, the Region will be proudly represented by Dublin City and Dún LaoghaireRathdown in the ultimate stage of the competition – the IBYE National Final in March.”

Judging takes place in early March and each finalist will have the opportunity to pitch their business plan to the judging panel. They will be assessed on criteria such

as the level of innovation in their business, the potential for future job creation and their leadership skills.

Aimed at 18 to 35-yearolds, the IBYE initiative is run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) nationwide, and supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland.

The investment awards will be used by the young

entrepreneurs to help fund business start-ups, create new jobs locally and help develop new products for international markets.

Competition details and results are available from www.ibye.ie and information around the supports available to young entrepreneurs through the Local Enterprise Offices is available from www. localenterprise.ie

Pictured are: Cllr. Guss O’Connell, Mayor of South Dublin and Colm Ward, Head of Enterprise pictured with IBYE Winners: Aonghus Shortt, age 31, of Food Marble, (Best StartUp Business Category), Darragh Mason, age 35, of Dublin Mountain Design, (Best Business Idea Category), and Kyle McLoughlin, age 26, of Irish Garage Equipment (Best Established Business Category). (PIC: Joe Keogh)

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.

A.McC. MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one.

Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it.

Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

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

Never known to fail. Also thanks to St. Martin, St. Theresa, St, Gerard and the Holy Angels for all their help. P.W..

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one.

Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it.

Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

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

Never known to fail. H.B. As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the last

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

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

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

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

We have two facilities in Kilcuan, Co. Galway and

Cois Cuain, Co. Wexford each offering different opportunities.

Both facilities provide Friendship weeks during the Summer.

Application forms are available from our Office at 091 796622.

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

If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque made payable to The Irish Pilgrimage Trust and send it, along with your Novena to: Newsgroup, Unit 3, Floor 2, St. Dominic’s Shopping Centre, St Dominic’s Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 If you require any further information call us on 087 6535443.

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NEW INITIATIVE TO KICK-START HEALTHY LIVING WHILE RAISING MONEY FOR SAOIRSE WOMEN’S REFUGE

By Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly

A new initiative from two Dublin women is aiming to kick-start healthy living within the community while raising money for Saoirse Women’s Refuge in Tallaght.

Emer McGowan and Karina Murray founded Aunua as a 5 Step Plan to ‘A-New-U’ offering motivational advice, nutrition, mindfulness, holistic therapy, styling and fashion to help participants to tap into their “inner resources” to find a more positive and fulfilling approach to life.

They have chosen Saoirse Women’s Refuge as their charity partner as a way of giving back to the community and will donate 10% of the profits to the cause.

The refuge for women and children escaping violence at home is based in Tallaght and has helped more than 800 families since opening in 2006, fielding over 4000 support calls to their helpline – which can be reached 24 hours-a-day on 01 463 0000.

Emer said: “It was important for us to partner up with a charity so we chose Saoirse Women’s Refuge in Tallaght. They provide amazing support for women and children who suffer domestic violence.”

The journey towards a new

life started when Emer was doing a challenge to raise awareness of suicide in the community last Summer.

She said: “I knew then that I wanted to do more as I realised how enormous the problem of mental health is in our society.

“Myself and Karina immediately had a connection and tailormade this 5-step approach to Aunua (A-New-U).

With limited resources and funds, we used our pure determination, charm and passion to push this programme forward, as we knew it worked for us and we wanted to share the tools that changed our lives with all those who struggle with life’s challenges.”

The programme was launched on Monday evening at the Green Isle Hotel in Clondalkin which is sponsoring Emer and Karina for the next five weeks.

There will be guest motivational speakers over the next five weeks including Business Woman of the Year winner Oonagh O’Hagan, musician and songwriter Luke Clerkin and Daniella Serpico from Dublin City FM. For more information about the programme visit www. aunua.ie or find them on Facebook.

Emer McGowan and Karina Murray

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CLONDALKIN’S SAINT PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

We know the Turkey and Ham and Christmas season has just passed but the organisers of Clondalkin Patricks Day Parade are and have been busy planning for March 17th @ 2.30 when once again after a hugely successful parade last year the parade will go through Clondalkin Village.

Already the Clondalkin Youth Band have confirmed along with Greyhound, Masseys, The Brownies, The Girl Guides, Boot Road Celtic, Elite Karate Academy, Scoil Rince Nic Liam, LD Dance School, Clondalkin Shotokan Academy, Funky Steps, The Laurels, The Men’s Shed, Colaiste Bride, Silver Surfers and the Clondalkin Active Retirement, Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life Choir,

The Tus Nua Ambassadors and Boom Variety Stage School, who’s next?

Sign up ASAP @ http://www. clondalkinstpatricksfestival.ie/ participate/ and Like us on Facebook for updates @ https://www.facebook. com/ClondalkinStPatricksDayParade/

Independent Cllr Timmons Chairman and founder of the Clondalkin Patricks Day Parade says “This is our chance to showcase the best of Clondalkin and I call on all community groups, clubs etc to get on board and make this parade one to remember, I have great memories of taking part in the parade in the 80s and we need to create great memories for the upcoming generations’’

Cllr Timmons ‘’We need volunteers to errect barriers on the day and volunteers to supervise the route you can volunteers @ http://www. clondalkinstpatricksfestival.ie/ volunteer/‘’ Cllr Timmons said ‘’We would particularly like and welcome local business to put in a float to add to the colour and fun of the parade’’ Cllr Timmons added that the theme this year is the Round Tower and Clondalkin Heritage.

For any information contact Cllr Timmons @ 087 286 9315 or contact @ http:// www.clondalkinstpatricksfestival.ie/ contact/

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SUMMER CAMPS IN PERFORMANCE ARTS COMING TO SOUTH-DUBLIN AND COUNTY

OWNERS URGED TO ENSURE END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES AND WASTE TYRES ARE MANAGED BY AUTHORISED WASTE TREATMENT FACILITIES Approximately 87,000 end-of-life vehicles were treated in 2014 and 82% of their material was reused or recycled. Approximately 28,000 tonnes of waste tyres were managed in 2014; of these 44% were recycled and 36% used as a fuel.

The Environmental Protection Agency has published waste data about end-of-life vehicles and waste tyres managed

by Authorised Treatment Facilities or other waste management organisations in Ireland in 2014.

Children’s nationwide performing arts network Starcamp is to host summer camps in four South Dublin and county locations next July and August.

Now in its 10th year and supported once again by banana importers Fyffes, the concept of the week-long camp is to build self-esteem in boys and girls aged 4-12 through song, dance, drama and games in a safe and noncompetitive environment.

Dates and venues where the camps will be held are:

Scoil Aine Naofa, Lucan from 10-14th July and 1418th Aug. Firhouse Community College Sports Complex 8-12th Aug. Knocklyon Community Centre 31st July - 4th Aug. Tymon Bawn Community Centre, Tallaght (31st July4th Aug. Drimnagh Castle Secondary School, W’town (24-28th July).

Interested parents can obtain further information on their website starcamp.ie

End-of-life vehicles contain valuable resources and are required to be treated at Authorised Treatment Facilities. Such treatment includes draining waste oils and removing parts for reuse or recycling. Treated endof-life vehicles are then sent to metal shredding facilities to recover metals. In 2014, 82 per cent of end-of-life vehicle material was reused and recycled, meeting Ireland’s EU End-of-Life Vehicle Directive recycling targets for the year. New regulations, published in November, have enabled the appointment of an approved body, End-of-Life Vehicle Environmental Services (ELVES), to represent vehicle producers and be responsible

for a national collection system for end-of-life vehicles and achievement of the targets with effect from 1st January 2017.

Approximately 28,000 tonnes of waste tyres were managed in 2014 with 45 per cent of them exported for treatment. In total, 80 per cent of waste tyres managed were recycled or used as fuel in 2014. While the tonnage of waste tyres managed in authorised facilities increased by 16 per cent between 2012 and 2014, there is still significant uncertainty about the level of unauthorised disposal.

The role of a new waste tyre Producer Responsibility Initiative will include collecting information on tyres and waste tyres in the distribution, collection and waste treatment network to meet this data need.

Mr Dara Lynott, Deputy Director General, EPA said, “Waste tyres and end-of-life vehicles are required to be

managed properly to remove hazardous substances and avoid the risk of pollution.

Unauthorised disposal will have to be avoided if we are to recover the valuable materials in these products and protect our environment and human health.”

Fiona McCoole, Office of Environmental Sustainability added, “All consumers can play their part to ensure that end-of-life vehicles and waste tyres are appropriately

managed and brought to legitimate waste treatment facilities. If your car or van needs to be scrapped, bring it to an authorised treatment facility and get a Certificate of Destruction for your records.”

These data releases are now available on the EPA website where you can also view details of Ireland’s progress towards EU waste recycling, recovery and diversion targets.

Ireland met the EU End-of-Life Vehicle Directive targets for 2014

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NEW YEAR’S GET TOGETHER BY AHMADIYYA MUSLIM ASSOCIATION

In line with the Quranic teaching of showing kindness to one’s neighbours, on the eve of Saturday 28th December, the local members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association Ireland held a new year’s Get together.

An exhibition was displayed about the Community’s endeavours in the promotion of peace and creating awareness to the general public about Islam’s true teachings. Further the community’s charitable work was also exhibited that also highlighted the participation of the Ladies wing of the community.

Members engaging with friends

Guests enjoying Asian cuisine

A view of the event

Left to Right: Zaheer Iftikhar, Rafiq Khan, Dr. Mashood Ahmad (President of senior’s wing) and Imam Rabeeb Mirza

A total of 35 people were in attendance, including representatives from the local media, neighbours and community members.

Overall it was a successful function and was enjoyed by all present. Such events have been held in the past and shall continue to be held in the coming years. The community hopes and prays that such events would become a source of braking barriers and building bridges with people of different colours, creeds and religions. It also hopes that they would be a means of educating the general public in regards to the true Islamic teachings that are imbued with peace, love, tolerance, justice and a sense of community.

SCHOOLS CAN NOW APPLY FOR FREE GIY AND INNOCENT DRINKS SOW & GROW PACKS

Primary schools across Ireland can now apply for a free Sow & Grow pack to be delivered to their school via https:// innocentsowandgrow.com/ This year the pupils will learn how to grow cress, baby carrots and runner beans. Each Sow & Grow pack includes a detailed ‘how to grow’ guide focusing on learning in the classroom, soil, growing pots, seeds and expert food growing kits devised by GIY and innocent drinks along with details on how to cook and eat the food grown.

Along with announcing the 2017 Sow & Grow initiative today, the Founder of GIY Michael Kelly also revealed statistics from a household survey carried out by Behaviour & Attitudes Ireland, on behalf of the team behind ‘Sow & Grow’.

Speaking at the launch Michael said, “We are delighted to be launching the sixth annual Sow &

Grow initiative; the level of engagement that we get from schools and children for this project each year is incredible. We are thrilled that with the help of innocent drinks we can reach even more children this year.”

Speaking about the recent survey Michael said, “At GIY we know just how important it is for kids to learn about growing food from an early age and the benefits that learning those life skills offer, therefore we wanted to carry out some independent research to see what the parents and children think. We were thrilled to hear that 99% of those surveyed believe it is valuable for kids to learn how to grow their own food and also that 49% of those surveyed have grown some food at home.

It is however worrying to see that 29% of children are not eating enough fruits and vegetables daily and that

14% of the children surveyed don’t understand where their food comes from.

There is still a lot of work to be done and that is why initiatives such as ‘Sow & Grow’ are so important.

One of the most important steps our Government could take to get children healthy is to put food on the curriculum – this research shows that parents want this to happen and understand how beneficial it would be.”

Over the last five years this initiative has enabled 100,000 Irish primary school children learn how to grow vegetables in the classroom.

The children not only learn the science of growing, they also experience the joy of growing and eating their own food. GIY calls this “Food Empathy” a deeper connection with food, which is proven to lead to a healthier life long-term.

This campaign has been so impactful that GIY and innocent are also rolling the

project out across a quarter of all primary schools in the UK. Brand Manager at innocent drinks Ireland, Bláthnaid McKenna, said: “We’re big fans of fruit & veg at innocent. As a business, we try to make sure we make drinks that not only taste good but also do some good too, which is why Sow & Grow is a project that we are exceptionally proud of.

The success of the initiative in Ireland has been such that now it is being rolled out in UK schools again this year. As a result of this, Sow & Grow will now get almost 250,000 school kids across the UK &

Ireland growing their own veg this spring. Just magic.”

‘Sow & Grow’ will encourage a knowledge of where food comes from, teaching children through a fun, free, learning experience just how easy it is to grow their own greens and enjoy the taste of their own food. It will also drive engagement as once schools are registered they can share their growing journeys online via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and using #SowAndGrowIE . For every school that does, they receive a Sow & Grow certificate but the most engaged or the ‘best’ Sow

and Grow school will win a trip to Bloom in the Park for their class and €500 worth of growing equipment for the school. The winning school will be presented with their prizes at Bloom, where they might be lucky enough to meet the President. Two runner up prizes of a €400 and a €300 GIY voucher are also up for grabs.

School teachers can apply for a free Sow & Grow pack via https:// innocentsowandgrow.com/.

(Packs are limited, so be quick.) The lucky entrants will then get their pack delivered to their school over the coming weeks.

Helping to launch the national Sow & Grow project are, from left, Georgia Moran (8), Brian Buie (8), Kayla O’Gorman (7) Callum O’Keeffe (8), Matthew Ryan (8) and Niamh Race (7) with Michael Kelly Founder of GIY and Blathnaid Mckenna Brand Manager innocent drinks Ireland. (PHOTO: Mark Stedman)

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FLAC WELCOMES HIGH COURT JUDGMENT FINDING EXCESSIVE DELAY IN DETERMINING PROTECTION APPLICATION FOR FAMILY IN DIRECT PROVISION FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) has welcomed the decision of the High Court to award compensation to a mother for the delay in determining her application for subsidiary protection.

The delay led to her being refused child benefit and other social benefits to which she might have been entitled.

The woman and her husband applied for international protection in Ireland in 2006 because of the risk faced by them in their home country.

Their first child was born in 2007 while they resided in Direct Provision. They made their first application for child benefit in 2008 , which was refused. It was not until May 2012, more than six years later, that a final decision was made on their protection application by the Minister for Justice and Equality and they were finally granted child benefit in respect of their son.

The principal issue in these

proceedings was whether the delay in deciding their application for subsidiary protection, which also resulted in lack of access to social benefits including child benefit, was so unreasonable that the rights of the mother were breached under EU law and the Constitution.

While the Court did not find that the refusal to pay child benefit to families in direct provision was a breach of rights per se, it did find that the delay on the part of the State in finally making a decision on their application for international protection was culpable. Accordingly, the State is liable to pay appropriate compensation.

Commenting on the case, FLAC Chief Executive Eilis Barry, said: “FLAC has long been critical of the direct provision system. This is not least because of the protracted period for which families and individuals remain in the system without access to basic rights and entitlements

such as the ability to work, live independently and access basic State benefits, including Child Benefit.

This case is important as it confirms that the delays in decision-making on international protection claims may ultimately lead to a breach of Constitutional and EU law rights that may be vindicated through the Courts.”

She welcomed the comments of Mr Justice White that Administrative authorities should be conscious of the length of time applicants seeking asylum in this country spend in direct provision whether by way of seeking refugee status, subsidiary protection or other consent mechanisms.

The direct provision system meets the basic needs of the applicants but is far from ideal.

He also stated that very lengthy periods in direct provision are undesirable for those applying for

refugee status or subsidiary protection, and that it was incumbent on the Department of Justice and Equality to ensure that their applications are processed within a reasonable time.

Sinéad Lucey, FLAC Managing Solicitor, said: “We are delighted that the perseverance of the clients in this case, in pursuing their rights while in direct provision, has been vindicated. While it remains to be seen how the Court will determine the compensation to which the applicant is entitled, the principle established in this case is important for all those with no choice but to accept the direct provision system pending the determination of their international protection claims. While the law is changing in this area, this case gives a further impetus to ensure our administrative systems are sufficiently resourced to avoid the type of delay seen in this case.”

DECISION TO EXTEND CONSULTATION PERIOD FOR SCHOOL ADMISSIONS WELCOMED

Fine Gael Senator, Neale Richmond, has welcomed the decision by the Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD, to extend the consultation period on the role of denominational religion in the school admissions process and possible approaches for making changes.

Senator Richmond tabled a Commencement Matter in the Seanad calling for an extension to the consultation period.

“The consultation process on school admissions is a very important and worthwhile initiative from Minister Bruton and it is vital that it is carried out in the most thorough and representative way possible.

“Following the original opening of this consultation, I was inundated with queries from schools, parents, prospective parents, religious bodies and many more alarmed that they were being given just four weeks to

submit their opinions.

The fact that the consultation period clashed with midterm holidays made matters even more difficult.

“I am therefore extremely grateful to Minister Bruton for taking the decision to extend this important consultation period by an additional four weeks. This means that the total time available for written submissions is 8 weeks.

“This will make the consultation process much more thorough. It must seek to protect the interests of everyone in Ireland, including those from minority faith backgrounds.”

Neale Richmond

CASSIDY TRAVEL BRINGS GREECE WITHIN EASY REACH FOR 2017 Some of Europe’s most appealing sunspots are again within easy reach of the Irish holidaymaker, as Cassidy Travel has announced its Greek programme for 2017.

For summer, the choice of destinations for sunseekers here is expanded thanks to daily flights from Dublin to Athens.

The dedicated Greece brochure from Cassidy Travel, unique among travel agents in Ireland, features a wide selection of famous destinations, including Athens, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Santorini and Rhodes. Whether it’s sunshine, scenery, peace and tranquillity or vibrant nightlife, these islands have it in abundance, and Cassidy’s will help piece together just the right package, with return flights to Athens starting from €299.

Lovebirds in particular will be drawn to the incomparable island of Santorini, where black volcanic beaches contrast with white-washed cliff-top houses to create possibly the most beautiful of the Greek islands. The 4-star Krokos

Villas awaits from €125pps per night in the month of June.

The medieval architecture and landscapes of Rhodes, with its famous Street of the Knights, will lure many who seek more than wall-to-wall sunshine from their holiday.

For those travelling in May, a week staying all-inclusive in the 3-star Rodos Star Hotel is available from €479pps including direct flights from Dublin and transfers, departing 24 May. Among the most popular islands is Mykonos, whose signature port contains the area known as ‘Little Venice’.

Accommodation in June is from €30pps per night with the 3-star Hotel New Aeolos from €50.

Those curious to explore the spectacular and unique heritage of Athens can avail of one week 3-star accommodation with flights from €467.

Crete, Zakynthos, Corfu and Kos can all be accessed directly from Dublin. Early summer deals include 7 nights in the 3-star Imperial Hotel in Kos from €399 pps or in the 3-star Katerina Palace in Zakynthos from €419pps, both on a B&B

basis and including flights and transfers in May. Despite the country’s economic woes, and credit downgrades, Greece as a holiday destination is a popular as it’s ever been,” explains John Cassidy of Cassidy Travel. “We expect lots of Irish holidaymakers will delight at the prospect of returning to famous place names like Santorini, Naxos and Rhodes, or enjoying them for the first time.”

Established in 1985, Irishowned Cassidy Travel is the country’s largest travel agent, with Travelshops in Liffey Street, the Ilac Centre, Liffey Valley, Dundrum, Talbot Street, Blanchardstown, and Tallaght, Donaghmede and Swords and an online at cassidytravel.ie. Across its sun holiday, city break, cruise, sports and Classic Resorts long-haul divisions, it will cater for close on 100,000 Irish holidaymakers this year.

Packages may be booked in store or by phone on 0818 332 500.

See cassidytravel.ie All prices subject to change.

The island of Santorini features in the new Cassidy Travel Greece brochure Inset: Cassidy Travel is offering 7 nights in Rhodes in May from €479pps with direct flights from Dublin

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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 – LOVE With Valentine’s Day on the horizon and Spring well on the way we have chosen a selection of movies sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

resistance at every turn but that does not deter them.

will see on screen. A brilliant movie.

If you are planning a romantic night in this Valentine’s Day, then look no further than out Top Five Films – Love for inspiration and entertainment….

2. Crazy, Stupid, Love – This story of love, friendship and coping with life will make you laugh and cry! The phenomenal cast includes Steve Carell, Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling and Julianne Moore – who all give stellar performances. Carell is a man on the brink of divorce who is trying hard to get his mojo back but all he really wants is for things to go back to the way they were before. Lots of surprises and a nice life-lesson to be learned.

4. Valentine’s Day – A somewhat obvious choice for the month that’s in it but this is a great feel-good film. A brilliant ensemble cast including Julia Roberts, Bradley Cooper, Ann Hathaway, Taylor Lautner and Ashton Kutcher will have you rooting for love from the beginning to the end.

As their lives overlap along the path of true love we find out what falling for someone really looks like.

1. Romeo & Juliet – One of the best movie adaptations of all time Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film is most wellknown for the outstanding performances by Clare Danes and Leonardo Di Caprio. This is a modern twist on the Shakespearean classic and is packed with action, drama and romance as well as a brilliant soundtrack. Starcrossed lovers destined to be together forever encounter

3. Going The Distance – When a young couple are separated by distance they fight to keep their relationship alive, but can love survive all things? What was meant to be a short fling turns into so much more when the couple discover that they can’t live without each… but they can’t be together. Drew Barrymore and Justin Long have some of the best chemistry you

Nearly every second movie contains a love story of some description, some conventional, some wacky, some abstract but all heartwarming in their own way.

5. Despicable Me 2 – If you want to include the little ones in your Valentine’s Day plan then this movie is the perfect solution for all the family. Evil mastermind Gru is back on the straight and narrow raising a family and attempting to date – all while saving the world!

There are lots of choices for a cosy night in with your Valentine so don’t forget the popcorn and sweets to ensure that love is in the air.

A scene from Valentine’s Day

FRANCES BLACK & KIERAN GOSS REUNION TOUR Two of Ireland’s most wellknown musicians will reunite for a nationwide Irish tour this month.

February 2017 will see Frances Black and Kieran Goss back together on stage 25 -years after their huge success as a duo.

The reunion tour kicked off in Galway this week

with upcoming dates in Antrim, Cork, Waterford and Monaghan before gigs in Dublin.

They will play at Draiocht in Blanchardstown on Wednesday, February 22nd and at the Civic Theatre in Tallaght on Sunday, February 26th.

The duo played a reunion

tour in 2016 and sold out at venues across the country, promoting them to hit the road again this year.

Kieran said: “It had been such a long time since we worked together that we were both nervous, but from the very first song of the first show, we knew we were doing the right thing. The

audience sang every song with us, the whole evening felt like a meeting up of old friends, and both Frances and I loved every minute of it.”

Both artists have enjoyed much success over the last 25 years with their solo careers taking off internationally but the spark that unites

them was strong enough to bring them back together.

With dates selling out across Ireland in 2016 both Kieran and Frances are excited to get back on the road again.

Kieran said: “We’re delighted to be offered this opportunity to play more shows together. We may even turn our reunion into

an annual event.”

More information is available by visiting www.kierangoss. com.

Tickets for the two Dublin shows taking place at Draiocht and at the Civic Theatre are available now from the respective box offices.

Frances Black and Kieran Goss

AUTHOR SIGGINS RETURNS WITH FIFTH RUGBY SPIRIT BOOK Dublin author and journalist Gerard Siggins will release the fifth book in the Rugby Spirit series which details the adventures of Eoin Madden on February 13th.

The book, entitled Rugby Runner, is for ages 10 and up and tells the tale of schools’ rugby star Eoin Madden who is the junior captain, training with the underage Leinster squad and in the running to be chosen for the first ever Irish Under 16 World Cup team.

However, all is not smooth sailing for the teenager who also must deal with grumpy friends, bullies, tough teachers – and the unruly ghost of William Webb Ellis who is credited with the invention of the game of rugby!

It is still unclear what exactly the ghostly apparition wants from the young rugby player but as the mystery rumbles on and a decisive game is on the horizon Eoin must figure things out fast.

Disaster strikes when the Under 16 World Cup trophy is stolen out from right under their noses and people begin to panic so Eoin teams up with his ghostly stalker to help solve the crime, but it could cost him his place on the team.

Dublin author Gerard

Siggins was previously a sports journalist with the Sunday Tribune and has been attending rugby matches since he was a young boy living just outside Lansdowne Road.

His collection of books is varied and he has also written several books on cricket and is co-author of Lansdowne Road: The Stadium; The Matches; The

Greatest Days.

He has also written four other books about the adventures of Eoin Madden – Rugby Spirit, Rugby Warrior, Rugby Rebel and Rugby Flyer – all of which have been published by The O’Brien Press.

Rugby Runner will be published on Monday, February 13th and will also be available as an eBook.

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BILLY CONNOLLY ANNOUNCES THIRD DUBLIN SHOW! HIGH HORSE TOUR FEBRUARY 2017: Fri 17th & Sat 18th Feb 2017: 3 Arena, Dublin – SOLD OUT!

Thurs 16th Feb 2017: 3 Arena, Dublin – EXTRA DATE! Buy Online: www.ticketmaster.ie | By Phone: 0818 719 300 | NI 0844 277 4455 In Person: Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide

Legendary Comedian, Billy Connolly, adds a THIRD and FINAL show to his High Horse Tour at the 3 Arena, Dublin on Thurs 16th Feb due to unprecedented demand.

Hailed as one of the most influential comedians of all time, voted best comedian of all time by Channel 4, and included as one of the Huffington Post’s favourite UK comedians.

Billy Connolly is a standup comedian, actor, musician, TV presenter and artist.

After an apprenticeship as a welder in his hometown of Glasgow, he became a professional performer in 1962, forming “The Humblebums” band with

Gerry Rafferty, before pursuing a solo-career as a comedian.

Aside from starring in numerous films and TV series, Billy has toured worldwide continuously for the last 50 years, performing to an audience of over 10,000,000. Billy was awarded a CBE in 2003, was given the Freedom of the City of Glasgow in 2010, and was named Britain’s most influential stand-up comic in 2012.

Billy is now also recognised as an artist, as original artwork by Billy has been displayed in various exhibitions throughout the UK since 2012. www.BillyConnolly.com | www.pateganmgt.ie

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