Lucan News

Lucan news 43% increase

in bin charges

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Sinn Fein Councillor Mark Ward warns that introduction of pay per weight legislation may lead to a 43% increase in customers’ bills. The introduction of pay by weight bin charges on the 1st of July will result in larger families families with and special needs paying more.

Councillor Ward says “The minimum charges for recycling may have been scrapped but it is a matter of concern

that the Minister has left the door open for companies to charge as much as they want. The bottom line is that collection companies will still be free to charge for collection of recyclable waste.”

“Lets not forget that Bin Pay-By-Weight charges are still being introduced from the 1st of July 2016 and that all other charging systems will cease from this date” “The new system has

raised fears among constituents that bills increase could particularly for larger families and families with special needs.”

“I have had Greyhound customers coming to me regarding the new pricing structures.

These customers are environmentally friendly and use their bins correctly. Based on their use of their bins in April, the same waste disposal in July will mean over a 43%

increase. The black bin charge of 35c per kilo and the brown bin charge of 23c per kilo their charges will raise from €17 per month to €30.01 per month. An introduction of a new service charge of €3.25 per week is built into these costs.”

“This is unacceptable for people already suffering financial hardships and is another stealth tax that ordinary people are expected to pay.

Waste management companies are in the business of making money, so it beggars belief that they would in an agreement with a strategy that would see 90% of their customers pay less.

Yet documentation on Greyhounds website are supportive of pay per weight measures.

People who have medical conditions could be unduly charged extra under this scheme. I have received the results of a survey from Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Ireland. They surveyed 152 members of their organisation and found that 89% have more waste due to the

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enForceMent oF ‘no Fry Zones’ around our schooLs shouLd be seen as key steP in the battLe against obesity

Fine Gael Senator, Catherine Noone, has said that enforcing ‘No Fry Zones’ around our schools would be a very welcome step in the battle against obesity and should be viewed as an important part of health promotion.

“This is something that I have campaigned for for some time.

The 2013 guidelines for the development of local area plans state that a plan can seek to reduce the exposure of children to the promotion of foods that are high in fat, salt or sugar through the careful consideration of the appropriateness and/or location of fast food outlets in the vicinity of schools and parks. However there has been little adherence to these guidelines. We now

need to examine proposals to better encourage adherence to these guidelines.

“There is a clear imperative to limit access to unhealthy fast foods for children. A quarter of 11-year-olds are now clinically obese. We are facing an obesity time bomb, which I have spoken about on many previous occasions.

“A study of Irish childhood obesity recently revealed that children who are obese have an 82% chance of remaining so into adulthood, compared with just 15% of children with a normal weight in childhood. I believe we need to do everything possible to stop that, and no fry zones are one such tool we can use.”

43% increase in bin charges.....FroM Page 1

disposal of continence products and 93% feel that it is unfair the people with disabilities should have to pay more for the removal of waste.

This is just one area of disability that this will impact. There will be

many more.

There is already a large of illegal volume dumping throughout the country and also an increase on people burning their rubbish.

This will only increase as people will struggle to pay this tax.

This is another stealth tax that could push struggling people through austerity over the edge.

“We need a guarantee that waste management companies do not use

the flexibility the Minister has granted to from profit

environmentally conscious citizens who recycle their waste.”

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ZaPPone WeLcoMes neW guide on oLder PeoPLe's rights

Independent TD for Dublin South West & Minister for Children & Youth Affairs Dr. Katherine Zappone has welcomed the new guide from Irish Council for Civil Liberties, 'Know Your Rights - A guide for Older People'.

The guide provides detailed information on many of the rights and entitlements of older people in relation to autonomy and participation, economic security, heath wellbeing.

The and document provides

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resources to empower older people.

Speaking about the guide, Dr. Zappone said: "This guide on the rights of older people and the resources available to them is very welcome and will assist our older citizens in both ensuring they are receiving all they are entitled to and being accorded the rights which they are deserving of."

"The guide outlines in clear

and accessible language the rights older people have when living in Ireland, which come from both Irish and EU law and from regulations which govern services and entitlements.

This is a wonderful resource to have, and it offers great clarity on the rights and entitlements of older people including pension rights and retirement, the right to health and community care, plus a dedicated to the problem of elder abuse."

taken on Taoiseach Enda Kenny, addressed the United Nations and discussed technology with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Apple.

She was named Young Person of the Year at the People of the Year Awards and Junior Chambers International Most Outstanding Young Person 2015.

She works with the school choir translating songs into Irish Sign Language for Mass. young Hero, Sean Fulham Despite being born with Tetralogy of Fallot, hearing loss and congenital cataracts and later Glaucoma, Sean Fulham has always lived life to the fullest. Sean attended Child Vision, where he learned to play the Uileann Pipes.

"I have spent many years working on human rights campaigns with the ICCL, and am pleased to see another brilliant guide as part of their Know Your Rights public information project.

I've also worked closely with many advocacy groups and national organisations for older people, as well local active retirement groups in Dublin South West, and I am sure this guide will also

contribute to the fantastic work they all do."

"During my time in the Oireachtas I have fought to protect free GP care and free travel schemes from previous Government cutbacks, and ensured that this was part of the Programme For Government. I was also a key advocate for the National Positive Ageing Strategy and the development of a UN Convention on the Rights of

Older People."

"Guaranteeing opportunities for older people was a key part of my election manifesto, and I have also brought this perspective into Government and Cabinet with me."

For more information or to request a hard copy of the guide, please contact the ICCL office by email at info@iccl.ie or call 017994504.

ireLand’s hero Joanne o’riordan and hidden hearingLaunch hidden heroes 2016

Activist and campaigner, Joanne O’Riordan joined some of last year’s Hidden Heroes and Hidden Hearing to launch Hidden Heroes 2016. The Hidden Heroes Awards recognise the achievements of people, young and old, who have made a significant contribution to Irish society, in their community, workplace, family or through sporting excellence. Nominations are now open and the winners will be announced at a ceremony on Monday 5th September.

Commenting on Hidden Heroes Joanne said: “I am truly honoured to join some of the amazing heroes from last year to launch this year’s Hidden Heroes campaign for Hidden Hearing. Hidden Heroes celebrates people throughout Ireland who have triumphed over adversity in their lives. I strongly believe that it’s not the disability, it’s the ability of the person, that’s what matters. No Limbs, No Limits is my motto and you can do anything you want if you just believe in yourself.

We all face obstacles in our lives, it's only a matter of overcoming them. Each and every day I live by the motto of what I fail at today I will overcome and conquer tomorrow."

Joanne is one of seven people in the world born with the condition Tetraamelia syndrome. From Millstreet in Cork, Joanne has achieved a huge amount in her life. She was the Grand Marshall at this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin. She has successfully

Also joining Joanne at the launch of Hidden Heroes 2016 in Dublin were some of last year’s winners including: Sporting Hero Cillian Dunne who has represented Ireland at javelin, shot-putt and discus, winning 200 medals in Ireland and the UK despite being confined to a wheelchair. triumph over adversity Hero, neala Dempsey who put her life on hold to care for her husband Dermot who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer.

Healthcare Hero, Hilary noonan - outreach nurse has been a hero to countless families over the years as she continuously goes over and above the call of duty to support and mind terminally ill children and their families. local Hero, Ciara Moran For the last 20 years Ciara has been a huge inspiration to all young GAA players in Roscommon and goes above and beyond to pass on her passion for sport with the youth and does her utmost to keep them involved in sport.

Social inclusion Hero Shirley Higgins - is a Home Economics and qualified Teacher of the Deaf in St. Mary’s School for the Deaf.

Director of Marketing at Hidden Hearing, Dolores Madden said, “At Hidden Hearing, we are constantly amazed at how people overcome massive obstacles and challenges in their lives to live remarkable lives.

Joanne O’Riordan encompasses everything that we celebrate in Hidden Heroes, not letting disability stop her from achieving all her dreams and ambitions. Every year, we hear inspiring stories from friends, family members, patients and coworkers throughout the country who want to recognise others who are overcoming serious challenges to make an impact on their community, in sport, in their family or in the workplace. We are honoured to be in a position to give something back to the community and give these hidden heroes the recognition that they so richly deserve.”

The Hidden Heroes Awards were first established in 2011 and have grown in size significantly since its first year. The nominations for Hidden Heroes 2016 are expected to surpass all other years. This year’s Hidden Heroes will be

Pictured at the launch of Hidden Heroes are from left to right: Irish Paralympian,Niamh McCarthy last year’s Triumph over Adversity Hero, Neala Dempsey, Stephen Leddy, Managing Director,Hidden Hearing, Activist and campaigner Joanne O’Riordan, last year’s Healthcare Hero, Hilary Noonan;and Irish Paralympian,Greta Steimikyte. (Pic:Naoise Culhane)

recognised across 10 categories as follows: Age Is No Barrier Hero Celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of someone over 65.

Young Hero – Recognising the achievements of a young person under the age of 16 who has accomplished a lot in their young life.

Deaf/Hard of Hearing Hero – Recognising the achievements of someone who has overcome the challenge of being deaf or hard of hearing.

Family Hero – In recognition of the hundreds of people in Ireland who care for members in need.

Healthcare Hero – Recognising the achievements of a healthcare professional who has gone beyond the call of

duty for his/her patients.

Sporting Hero – Recognising the achievements of a person who has overcome adversity to excel in sport.

CSR/Diversity Hero – Recognising an employee who goes above and beyond their daily job to volunteer and support the community.

Unsung Hero – Recognising a male hero who has overcome adversity in his life to excel.

Unsung Heroine – Recognising a female hero who has overcome adversity in her life to excel.

Triumph Over Adversity - An overall hero who has overcome significant adversity in his/her life.

The winners of each category will be announced at the Hidden Heroes Awards ceremony in the Doubletree Hilton on

Tuesday 5th September 2016. The nominations are now open and will remain open until 5th August 2016.

Friends, family members, patients, workers throughout the country can nominate a Hero online now at www.hiddenhearing.ie/hero es, in Hidden Hearing branches nationwide or by sending the details of the nominee to Hidden Hearing Ltd., Hidden Heroes Awards, 3030 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus, Freepost F1570, Dublin 24.

All entries must include the name and contact details of the nominee as well as the nominator and outline in no more than 500 words why the nominee is deserving of becoming one of Ireland’s Hidden Heroes.

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DuBlIn PArkS TennIS Is Serving up a Summer of Fun in July •

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Low cost affordable tennis coaching from 4th to 29th July

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concern about rePorted changes to disabiLity PayMent criteria

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran has expressed concern following reports that the eligibility criteria for disability payments could be changed.

This would see teens having to wait an extra two years before being able to claim these essential payments.

Commenting on the matter Deputy Curran said, “I am

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deeply concerned about reports that the age threshold for disability payments may be increased.

At the moment, the minimum age threshold to qualify for the Disability Allowance is 16.

I’m worried that the Social Minister is Protection considering increasing this threshold to 18, if reports are to be believed.

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“The Fine Gael/Labour Government was forced into an embarrassing climb down on this very issue in 2013 amid staunch opposition from the disability sector. I would hope that the new Government will be cognisant of the very real concerns raised by disability groups then, and will be

mindful of this before they try again to press ahead with such a proposal.

“While I am fully in favour of actively supporting people with disabilities into further education and employment, I believe this requires a holistic approach.

Any programme or system that is put in place to

facilitate people with disabilities into education or employment must first and foremost be centred on the needs and the rights of the individual concerned. It is imperative that this new Government does not continue with the harsh and punitive policies that were the hallmark of the previous

administration.

“Fianna Fáil will not support policies that we believe contravene the fundamental principle of fairness. People with disabilities must be given every opportunity to reach their full potential, but this should be done in a manner that is progressive, inclusive and fair”.

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor, the Chairman of the Council’s Economic, Enterprise & Tourism Development SPC, has welcomed the announcement by workforce solutions firm Fleetmatics of the creation of up to 75 new jobs at its global headquarters in Cookstown Industrial Estate, off the Old Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin over the next two years.

According to councilor Charlie O’Connor the company has stated that it is looking to boost its headcount in Ireland to in excess of 200 by adding 75 new research and development roles.

The Dublin-based firm,

which floated on the New York Stock Exchange in 2012, has expanded from the 10 people it had employed in 2004 to 1,200 people it now currently employs worldwide.

Charlie O’Connor also added that he was particularly impressed by the statement from the Fleetmatics chief technology officer Peter Mitchell that “Here in Ireland we are spoiled with an incredible talent pool in research and development.”

The company also confirmed that “expansion plans also include the development of Fleetmatics’ new Network Operations Centre (NOC) in Tallaght, Dublin, a custom

built facility housing the company’s operations and application support engineers.”

The SPC Chairman finally added that this was exciting news for Tallaght and he wished the company well.

FLeetMatics Jobs announceMent WeLcoMed

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information: ⁕ the summer camp is divided into three age groups; 4-6, 7-0 and 10-12 ⁕ each day starts with a group game with all children ⁕ the following activities take place over the five days: swimming (every day), mini Basketball, trampoline, soccer, Gymnastics, art & crafts, aerobics, mini Hockey, Quizzes, treasure Hunts, Disco, Bouncy castle and lots of indoor/outdoor based activities.

We run our own Tuck Shop, which opens every day at lunch time. Children are allowed to spend €1.00 per day. all children attending the camp should bring the following: ⁕ a Healthy packed lunch and drink. ⁕ swimming togs, towel, swim Hat, flip flops or crocs, armbands if needed. ⁕ sun Block

Prices: 1st child €74 2nd and €69 for any additional children from the same family for week Bank Holiday tuesday 2nd - friday 5th aug. 4 days €10 less than the prices quoted above

Tallaght Community School Sports Complex, Balrothery, Tallaght, Dublin 24.

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goVernMent shouLd heed caLL to acceLerate inFrastructure inVestMent

ireLand’s taLented youth shoWcased

Infrastructure Commission needed for long term planning of projects such as Metro West and Lucan Luas

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin MidWest John Curran has welcomed Engineer’s Ireland 'State of Ireland 2016’ report on the country’s infrastructure. Deputy Curran described it as a sharp reminder of the serious policy challenge faced by the State.

Deputy Curran said, “The call made by Engineer’s Ireland for the promised mid-term review of the long-term capital plan to be brought forward is in line with the position which Fianna Fáil has taken. The government should take heed of this call.

“It’s my view that investment in infrastructure is the most effective means of ensuring we all feel the benefits of the recovery, from more modern hospitals and schools to improved public transport and better roads. The previous Government’s Capital Plan as presented falls well short of achieving this.

In my own constituency of Dublin Mid-West there are no plans to progress the Metro West Project or the Lucan Luas. The Government’s Capital Plan and the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2016-2035 have failed to plan for the future

transport needs of the area and the Greater Dublin Area.

The fact that the Metro West and the Lucan Luas project have been excluded from any Government plan is very disappointing and shows a real lack of vision for transport in the Greater Dublin Area.

Ireland now lags well behind the OECD average for the quality of our infrastructure. Efficient infrastructure such as telecoms, energy, transport, broadband and water is vital to support national competitiveness and balanced regional employment.

“The Capital Plan announced last October was a lot less ambitious than one would think from the fanfare with which it was launched.

The plan represents just 1.9 percent of GDP over the next six years. The average annual increase in public investment will be less than €250 million.

“Ireland needs to take a long term view on infrastructure projects and what this country needs over the next century. This is particularly important in light of the serious challenges of climate change and the need to upgrade our infrastructure to

cope with growing demand. This requires long term planning and investment.

“I am proposing the establishment of a new National Infrastructure Commission which would be tasked with planning infrastructure over a 25 year period. We need to go beyond the limited 5 year cycle of current capital plans in order to our long term secure requirements.

“This would be achieved by reforming Transport Infrastructure Ireland and drawing from the Department of Transport, National Transport Authority, the Sustainable Energy Authority and Local Authorities to set out a new framework for the development of transport in Ireland over the coming years.

The commission would be tasked with overseeing long term plans for a series of targets including: - Achieving at least 3% of GDP Infrastructure Investment; - Decarbonising Ireland; - A strong transport network that balances regional development; - Making Ireland an IT nation with telecommunications connectivity; - A secure, balanced energy mix.

Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar was on hand as 150 talented young people received certificates at an awards ceremony at the Centre for Talented Youth Ireland (CTYI), DCU. CTYI’s Centre for Academic Achievement (CAA) programme, which is supported by the Matheson Foundation was designed to give socio-economically disadvantaged primary school students the opportunity to take classes in science and engineering.

Pictured - Spelling out CTYI are Paul Smith (10) - letter C, Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar - letter T, Josh Hayden (12) - letter Y, and Ellen kennedy (9) – letter I (Pic Paul Sherwood)

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ProPosed neW eu Measures WouLd iMProVe onLine shoPPing For irish consuMers

Fine Gael Senator, Catherine Noone, has said that proposed new EU measures will greatly improve online shopping for Irish consumers.

“The European Commission has introduced proposed measures aimed at tackling geoblocking. This is where the consumer is blocked, to some extent, from buying goods or services from an EU-based company. This includes restricting access to websites or rerouting people to national versions of the site and denying the ability to purchase or deliver.

“Geoblocking may also involve altering prices depending on where the query is coming from, or denying access to special offers. For example Disneyland Paris was exposed for offering different prices for holiday packages depending on what country you’re from.

“Consumers unfortunately are often unaware of geoblocking and even if they are they don’t know how they can complain or what they can do.

“It’s great to see the European Commission is now looking to tackle this problem and bring online sales under the scope of Single Market rules. These proposals will now require consideration and formal adoption by both the European Parliament and Council before they can take force. I hope, for the sake of Irish online shoppers, that this can all be done as quickly as possible.”

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suPPorts For students in the Protection systeM to continue

The Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton, TD, today (Friday) announced his decision to continue the Pilot Student Support Scheme for those in the protection system for 2016/17.

The Scheme, which was introduced in 2015, provides supports in line with the current Student Grant Scheme to eligible school leavers who are in the protection system (other than those at the deportation order stage) and who are either: Asylum Applicants; Subsidiary Protection Applicants; or Leave to Remain Applicants.

Applicants in the protection system who

wish to be supported to pursue certain courses in further education or at undergraduate level in higher education will be required to meet the following criteria: Meet the definition of a protection applicant or a person at leave to remain stage (other than those at the deportation order stage); Obtained their Leaving Certificate; Have been accepted on an approved Post Leaving Certificate course or an approved undergraduate course; Have attended a minimum of five academic years in the Irish school system, as at 31 August 2016; and

Have been part of an application for protection or leave to remain for a combined period of 5 years as at 31 August 2016.

Further information on how to apply, including the application form, is available on www.education.ie/en/Learners/Services/ Pilot-Support-Scheme/

The decision to continue the scheme for a second year was taken following a review of the Pilot Support Scheme that first operated in 2015.

The closing date for applications is 4th November 2016.

dePLetion oF taLLaght drug unit unaccePtabLe

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Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has described the Minister for Justice’s response to his Parliamentary Question on Garda numbers in the local Drugs Unit as extremely disappointing and unacceptable.

Crowe said that any naïve person looking at the downward spiral of the graph would believe that the drugs problem was

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receding and not getting worse.

Deputy Seán Crowe said: “The response from the Minister for Justice, Francis to my Fitzgerald, Parliamentary Question is extremely disappointing, unacceptable, and is not based on the reality of the actual situation currently impacting on so many families, and the communities they live in.

“The numbers of An Garda

Síochána in the local Drugs Unit has been reduced in the last 5 years while the drugs problem and its impact on the lives of residents continues to grow.

“Many communities have to watch helplessly and deal with the reality of open drug dealing going on their doorsteps on a daily basis.

“Young school children are being used as drug runners and the intimidation of families over alleged drug

debts has grown beyond the few isolated cases of 5 years ago.

“5 years ago there were 31 members of the local Drugs Unit, but last year it went down to an all-time low of 16 members. The question everyone is asking is why?

“The Minister notes in the parliamentary reply that all Gardaí have a responsibility in the prevention and detection of criminal activity, whether it be in the area of drug offences or otherwise. She also says this work is supplemented by resources from Divisional units including the Divisional Traffic Unit and the Divisional Burglary Unit, but the receding figures speak volumes about her commitment to tackling this huge problem.

“Surely, with the backdrop and long history of a drugs epidemic that has destroyed so many lives, the numbers

of Gardaí specifically dealing with drug dealing should have vastly increased not decreased.

“Any cursory look at Tallaght and its hinterland would confirm that the drugs problem has got steadily worse, while at the same time the State’s resources to actually tackle the problem have been shrinking or withdrawn altogether.

“We know that the Tallaght Drugs Task Force has seen its core funding slashed over the same 5 years and the Departments of Health, Education and Skills, and Social Protection, who make up pillars of the Drugs Strategy, no longer attend meetings.

“The call from the same Task Force, that the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) should be more active locally, has been met with a deafening silence.

“Minister Fitzgerald’s recent announcement of a range of additional measures to tackle organised crime including the strengthening of CAB powers, new legislation to target proceeds of crime, and the setting up of a new Special Crime Taskforce that will focus relentlessly on persons involved in gangland activities is to be welcomed.

“Unfortunately many people have heard many of these public commitments and lost any before confidence in the Minister and many of her predecessors.

“People want to see action on the ground in their areas not more empty promises.

She could begin to rebuild confidence in this area by strengthening and fully resourcing the depleted Tallaght Drugs Unit.”

TWEET OF THE WEEK

It was a busy weekend for Dublin Fire Brigade as fire fighters tackled two major fires locally.

The fires at Belgard Square in Tallaght and another in Rathcoole were extinguished without any injuries in the same week that the service celebrated 154 years in existence.

Our Tweet of the Week highlights the great work of Dublin Fire Brigade…

by lynda o’Donoghue Donnelly

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strategy to coMbat energy PoVerty WeLcoMed

12

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Councillor Charlie O’Connor has welcomed the announcement by Denis Naughten TD, the new Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources of the launch by his Department of a new Strategy to Combat Energy Poverty in Dublin 24 and Dublin 12.

ManscapIng MaDe easY at MIDas touch With Father's Day upon us, our focus is on our male clients, many of whom visit us at The Midas Touch to be manscaped. Manscaping is a term used to describe the removal of men's unwanted and unsightly hair. Serving both aesthetic and practical purposes, not only does Manscaping look and feel good, it’s the hygienic approach to male grooming. If you’re one of the few remaining cautious souls who’s yet to try body grooming, you’re in the dwindling minority as Manscaping is increasing in popularity and it's here to stay! So what are your options?

Do It Yourself DIY is fine in many grooming situations but when it comes to removing body hair, reaching for an off the shelf depilatory and taking matters into your own hands will likely end in blood, sweat and a nasty rash. There is no question that going with a pro will give you a far superior result.

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According to the Minister the Department of Energy is making €20m available over the next three years for energy efficiency upgrades to residents of Dublin 24 and 12 who are suffering from acute respiratory conditions and living in poor quality homes. The Department is working with the HSE to find these people and will be offering them deep energy efficiency interventions: insulation, heating system upgrades, ventilation, everything that they need to keep their homes warmer and more comfortable at a much reduced cost. These upgrades are completely free to the householder.

The objective of the scheme is to attempt to determine the health benefits that arise from improving someone’s home – reduced hospitalisations, improved mobility in the home and other issues.

According to Charlie O’Connor, Minister Naughten has also stated that: “People are referred to the scheme through their local healthcare professional, be they Physiotherapist, GP, Social Worker or Hospital consultant.

To be eligible for support the following criteria must be met: • The person referred by the HSE must be over 55 years of age; • The person referred by the HSE must be living

with chronic respiratory disease i.e. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or Asthma that may be ameliorated by the energy efficiency improvements to the home; • The home must be owner-occupied or rented from a local authority/approved housing association; • A member of the household must be in receipt of the Fuel Allowance; • The home must be located within the area designated for the pilot scheme, namely Dublin 24 and Dublin 12”

The Department confirmed that these eligibility criteria were set in conjunction with the HSE but they do anticipate modifying them somewhat in future years. He added that the Department hopes to open the scheme to families with young children who are suffering from respiratory conditions next year and to upgrade 200 homes this summer then to up the rate to 400 a year for the next two years.

Councillor Charlie O’Connor added that the Department has confirmed meetings on the subject with a number of interest groups in the areas but that the Minister, Denis Naughten, has asked the elected public representatives for their assistance in getting the word out about the availability of the scheme.

In that regard the Minister needs to identify 1000 eligible participants in the Dublin 24 and Dublin 12 areas over the next three years.

He has however asked the Department for clarification in respect of the situation were in accordance with the Tenancy agreement regarding Council houses no works can be carried out without the prior permission from the Council.

chiLd beneFit WiLL not be Linked to schooL attendance

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran has welcomed a commitment from the Minister for Social Protection that Child Benefit will not be linked to school attendance.

Deputy Curran said, “Fianna Fáil sought reassurances from the Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar that Child Benefit would not be linked to school attendance as indicated in the Programme for Partnership Government. I am pleased that the Minister has now committed not to proceed with this proposal. I also welcome his assurances that the Government will not meanstest or tax this essential payment.

“I and the Fianna Fáil party strongly opposed the linking of Child Benefit to school attendance when the Partnership Programme for Government was first published. This proposal applied a rather simplistic approach that would have done little to address or understand the root causes of school absenteeism. It would also have punished many families who were already experiencing social exclusion and struggling to make ends meet.

“We indicated in very clear terms that we would not support such a harsh and punitive measure and I am glad that we have secured a commitment from the Minister on this vital issue”, concluded Deputy Curran.

caLLs For action on age reLated chaLLenges

your Free Local newspaper

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called on the HSE to take action, in conjunction with the management of Tallaght Hospital, to deal with age related the challenges at Tallaght Hospital which were highlighted at a recent report and which raised doubts about the ability of the Hospital to respond to what the report described “a tsunami of senior citizens”.

highlighted recently by the media.

The matter was raised

by Councillor Charlie O’Connor at a recent meeting of the Regional Health Forum Dublin – mid Leinster and he stressed the need for a positive response to the issues raised in the report.

In a response Dr Susan O’Reilly, the CEO of the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group said “Tallaght Hospital is undertaking a number

of initiatives in conjunction with the Health Services Executive to meet the needs of the ageing population who use the services. hospitals These include the appointment of additional consultants and health and care professionals such as physiotherapist and occupational therapists with the focus on maintaining independence; reduce hospital admissions and developing partnerships

with community and primary care services.

With HSE funding a dedicated older person’s ward is due to open this summer will again which enhance the care we provide to this age group”

According to Councillor Charlie O’Connor this is an extremely important issue and he intends to continue to monitor the situation on behalf of the community in respect of the matter.

caution urged on Fast track PLanning ProPosaLs

The

report

was

Sinn Féin TD and spokesperson on Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoin Ó Broin has urged Minister Simon Coveney to exercise caution in his plans to adopt new fast track planning procedures.

Deputy Ó Broin said: “I would strongly urge Minister Coveney to exercise caution in introducing fast track planning laws.

“Undoubtedly, the planning process can be cumbersome and it does need to be streamlined, made more transparent, and user friendly.

“However, local communities have the right to

engage in the planning process, especially for big building projects that may have a significant impact in their area.”

“The real delay in getting real social housing building off the ground is the laborious procurement process. Reforming this process would be a lot more beneficial for local authorities and the department.“Minister Coveney has a delicate balance to strike between providing adequate funding, streamlining planning and reforming the procurement process. Tackling one of these issues in isolation will not solve the problem.”

13

greenhiLLs coLLege cLass oF 2016 graduation

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your Free Local newspaper

The annual Greenhills College of Further Education graduation took place last Wednesday morning at the Red Cow Moran Hotel. Twenty class groups from a wide variety of subject areas including Business, Childcare, Computing, Engineering, Healthcare, Science and Nursing graduated on the day. Helping the graduates celebrate were the friends and family members who had supported them throughout the year. The ceremony was attended by over 600 people in total.

Guest speakers included Dr Fionnula Anderson, Further Education Development Officer at Dublin Dun Laoghaire ETB. Newly elected Senator and outgoing President of Trinity College’s Student Union Lynn Ruane spoke about her path in education as an early school leaver and mature student. Former student Suzanne Bermingham who had graduated from the Nursing Studies course in 2006 spoke about her rewarding career as a Nurse at the Mater Hospital.

Anne Marie Morrissey, Sophie Pelo and Sharon Joyce

Greenhills College of Further Education is committed to providing lifelong learning for adults across all age profiles who wish to upskill or reskill by gaining new qualifications. The College has been offering quality QQI (formerly FETAC) awards at Levels 4, 5 and 6 since 1991. Over the years, Greenhills College has forged a number of links with Third Level institutions including University College Dublin, Dublin City University, Dublin Institute of Technology, as well as employers and recruitment companies throughout Ireland. The annual graduation ceremony marks a final opportunity for the class of 2016 to come together before they embark on a variety of pathways including working life and further studies. Best of luck to the class of 2016 and may your futures be filled with good things.

John Field- Skills Encore

Dr Fionnuala Anderson

Austin Micheau

Colm Davis, Jennifer Dunne, Katarzyna Konecna, Debbie Mc Dermott, Elaine Hanks, Katrina O'Sullivan, Laura Luz and Barbara Hayden

Former student Suzanne Bermingham

Paul Barnes

Jacky Masengo, Mamisa Ekofo, Patricia Ngalula and Yanick Tazi Principal Ann Bray

Senator Lynn Ruane

Philip Rigby Jones and Mary Toland

Vice Principal Noel Kelly, Dr Fionnuala Anderson,Senator Lynn Ruanne, Suzanne Bermingham and Principal Ann Bray

Sinead Clarice and Sharon Joyce

your Free Local newspaper

Dear Editor

Letter to the Editor

We the undersigned MEPs are writing to you to clarify recent media reports on the European Commission’s ‘opinion’ on Ireland’s water charges or the abolishment thereof.

Let’s be clear: The European Commission has never made any official statements asserting that Ireland abolishing direct water charges would be in breach of the Water Framework Directive.

The Water Framework Directive which was adopted in 2000 states in Article 9 that all Member States may derogate from the water pricing obligations contained within the Directive.

In a recent response to a written question submitted by Lynn Boylan, the Commission confirmed that this derogation still exists.

Yes, the response also stated that if ‘established practice’ was a direct water-charge then the flexibility to use the derogation would not apply but here we come to the crux of the matter ‘established practice’.

Here also the European Commission is already on record as that it considers stating ‘established practices’ to be those practices which were ‘an established practice at the time of adoption of the directive’.

This Directive was adopted on the 23rd of October 2000 and transposed into Irish law in 2003

when it is beyond doubt that Ireland used general taxation as its established practice.

Additionally, since direct water charges were introduced in Ireland only in the last year and - far more significantly - since those charges have been rejected by the people, charging directly for water is not the established practice in Ireland.

Furthermore, in a 2014 landmark case on EU water recovery rules the European Court of Justice found in favour of a Member State, Germany, after the Commission tried unsuccessfully to take Germany to court for, in its opinion, failing to fulfil its Water Framework Directive.

The judgement conclusively stated that it cannot be inferred that the absence of pricing for water service activities will necessarily jeopardise the attainment of the Water Framework Directive.

As recently as January 2016, more than one year after the establishment of Irish Water, in a response to a Written Question which asked if Ireland would be in breach of the Water Framework Directive if water charges were dropped, the Commission simply stated that the second RBMPs would be assessed against the requirements of the Directive.

Anything else is simply conjecture.

The European Commission has also confirmed in emails to Lynn Boylan and Marian Harkin that if Ireland would like to avail of Article 9.4

(the derogation) then it should submit that request in its second River Basin Management plan with justification. This 2nd River Basin Management Plan is now not due to be submitted until 2017, plenty of time for Ireland to establish that derogation.

It is beyond doubt then that if the Irish government so wishes, it can still use the derogation and justify its use in its River Basin Management Plans, as has been done and is still being done by so many other European regions and countries.

In light of all the above, it is clear that certain journalists and politicians have distorted the debate by misconstruing and/or embellishing what the Commission has put on record regarding the derogation from water pricing in the Water Framework Directive.

Worse, it is also clear that many of those same politicians are purposefully twisting this clear, unequivocal situation and using it as an excuse not to avail of the derogation which gives the Irish government the final say in deciding on water charges.

Kind Regards,

Lynn Boylan MEP, Martina Anderson MEP, Matt Carthy MEP, Liadh Ní Riada MEP, Luke Ming Flanagan MEP, Nessa Childers MEP, Marian Harkin MEP

15

neW innoVation at taLLaght hosPitaL as eir business instaLLs saFe, Free Wi-Fi For aLL Patients

As part of its ongoing commitment to technological innovation and ensuring the best experience for all patients, Tallaght Hospital has launched public WiFi which is safe for families and free for all to use. The new WiFi, service utilises the existing WiFi infrastructure already in place with the addition of a new Internet gateway service provided by eir Business. The service is accredited by Friendly WiFi, meaning content that is not family friendly is filtered out. Tallaght Hospital is the first hospital in Ireland to get this accreditation. Following a competitive process, eir Business was chosen as the provider of the new public Internet gateway service. Tallaght Hospital, eir Business and Friendly WiFi are working together to ensure that patients at Tallaght Hospital can browse online without the risk of coming across indecent images, websites known to the Internet Watch Foundation or pornography. Friendly WiFi accredits services that it deems sufficiently childfriendly and marks them with a clearly identifiable symbol, indicating its independent approval.

Pic shows (behind l to r) David Slevin CEO of Tallaght Hospital and Bill Archer, Managing Director, eir Business (in front) Conor Rooney (aged 4) (PIC: MAXWELLPHOTOGRAPHY.IE)

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16

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reactions and effects of gardasil resulting in extreme trauma (r.e.g.r.e.t) Group set up by parents of teenage girls suffering from side effects they believe were caused by the HPV vaccine.

by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly

A Lucan woman who has been campaigning to inform parents about vaccines for the past 15 years has thrown her weight behind a new support group.

Mairead Hilliard began campaigning in 2001 and later set up a group called Vaccine Informed Parents to encourage parents to find out more about their children’s healthcare.

Now she is supporting R.E.G.R.E.T – Reactions and Effects of Gardasil Resulting in Extreme Trauma – which was set up by parents of teenage girls suffering from side effects they believe were caused by the HPV vaccine.

Mairead said: “Way before it was brought in here I had concerns about the HPV vaccine. I was campaigning for years saying that the vaccine wasn’t safe because of things I was reading from the United States.

“The main issue for me is that parents are not given a copy of the patient’s information leaflet which comes from the manufacturer and gives a list of the more serious possible side effects and parents don’t see that.”

R.E.G.R.E.T reports that more than 350 girls in Ireland are currently suffering from side effects which they believe is

linked to the HPV vaccine.

Some members appeared on a TV3 documentary in 2015 to highlight the issue.

Mairead said: “I would urge parents who believe their daughters have been affected to come forward – they are not at fault for this. I would also advise parents to make themselves aware of the possible side effects, especially if their children have allergies or auto-immune illnesses.”

Further information about the support group is available by visiting www.regret.ie.

The legal Column

by Romaine Scally

Romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of ROMAINE SCALLY AND COMPANY SOLICITORS Main Street Tallaght, Dublin 24 TEL 4599506 FAX 4599510 email: legal@scally.ie origin, the name of the driver and insurance details. On the downside, given that the accident involved a vehicle registered outside the State there may be delays in processing the claim. There are also strict rules regarding all claims involving the Motor Insurer’s Bureau of Ireland and we would strongly advise you to attend with a Solicitor with a view to processing the claim on your behalf. We wish you the best of luck in this regard.

In this edition of your free local paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors, deals with personal injury claims involving vehicles registered outside the state. roMAIne sCALLY & Co. soLICITors, MAIn sTreeT, TALLAGhT, dUBLIn 24 TeL: 01 45 99 506 FAX: 01 45 99 510 eMAIL: legal@scally.ie weB: www.romainescally.ie

Q. i was injured recently when a car reversed into me in a carpark. the Guards took particulars but have now told me that the car was being driven by Germans who were over on holiday and that it is registered and insured in Germany. Does this mean that i will have no claim or would have to employ Solicitors in Germany to pursue a claim for me?

A. Firstly, we are sorry to hear about this accident which sounds to have been just an unfortunate misjudgement on the part of this visiting driver.

Nonetheless, it should not have happened.

You have obviously been injured and are therefore entitled to be compensated.

Thankfully, however, you will not have to pursue a claim outside of this jurisdiction.

The MIBI (Motor Insurer’s Bureau of Ireland) deals with claims for parties who are involved in accidents in Ireland caused by vehicles registered outside the State.

It is very important, that where a vehicle registered outside the State is involved, to obtain as much information as possible relating to the offending vehicle including the registration number, the make and model of the vehicle, the Country of

Q. My daughter was on holiday in Spain recently and was unlucky enough to be knocked off her moped by a Spanish driver. She sustained nasty enough injuries and was in hospital for several days in Spain. thankfully, she was then able to travel home and is slowly beginning to recover. She got some details from the police in Spain but, we are wondering if it is possible to obtain any further information in this Country or would we have to employ Solicitors in Spain to look after the matter on her behalf?

A. Firstly, we are very sorry to hear about your daughter. This was a very frightening experience for her and one which, indeed, could have had a much worse outcome. Thankfully, you say that your daughter is now recovering well and we hope that this recovery continues at a speedy pace. To answer your question, arising from the implementation in Ireland in 2003 of the 4th EU Motor Insurers Directive, the MIBI (Motor Insurer’s Bureau of Ireland) was designated as a Motor Insurance Information Centre of Ireland (MIICI) by the Minister for Transport. This provides that persons involved in a road traffic accident in an EU member State other than their own Country of residence, may apply to the MIICI to establish the identity of the insurer of the alleged offending vehicle. Once this is established, details of the insurer including the insurer’s claims representative in Ireland will be passed to the person making the enquiry. The claims representative will then handle the claim on behalf of the insurer.

In addition, the 5th EU Motor Insurers Directive which came into force in 2008, extended the role of MIICI to include all accidents which have occurred in the EC

including Ireland. Therefore, for any person who has been involved in any accident in Ireland or in another EC member State, and that person wishes to establish the identity of the insurer of the alleged offending vehicle, it is possible now to apply for this information through the MIBI here in Ireland. Given the complexity of these matters, it would be worth employing a local Solicitor to pursue the matter on your behalf.

However, you can download an enquiry form from the MIBI but you must have details in relation to the following: a. b.

c. d.

Date of the accident.

Registration number of the alleged offending vehicle.

Country of accident.

Your own contact details

Once you submit the enquiry form, the MIICI will contact the information centre in the State where the responsible vehicle is registered to obtain details of insurance. That information centre will establish the identity of the insurer or alternatively advise if the vehicle was uninsured and, in such cases, will provide details of the registered owner of the vehicle. Where the vehicle is insured, details of the insurer’s claims representative in Ireland are also provided. It seems therefore that there is assistance available to you here in Ireland to establish the identity and insurance details of the offending vehicle in another EU State but provided, of course, that you have the details as set out above. We wish you the best of luck in this regard and hope that this has been helpful.

Q. i was injured while i was a pedestrian in Spain last Summer and despite my best efforts have not been able to establish insurance cover for the offending vehicle. i am permanently resident in ireland and have not had any success in tracing the registered owner of the vehicle. is there anything i can do here in ireland?

A. This is an unfortunate situation but not hopeless from a compensation point of view.

Arising from the implementation in Ireland in 2003 of the 4th EU Motor Insurers Directive, the MIBI

was designated as a “Compensation Body” by the Minister for Transport.

‘Compensation body’ claims arise in incidences where an Irish citizen has been involved in an accident in an EU member State other than Ireland where: 1. The MIICI (see question above) has been unable to ascertain the identity of the insurer of the alleged offending vehicle or 2. The alleged offending vehicle remains unidentified or 3. Either the insurer, or its claim representative in Ireland, fails to comply with their statutory obligations.

There is a form you can download from the MIBI and this should be submitted as soon as possible after the accident to enable the MIBI to commence its investigations. On receipt of a fully completed MIBI Claim Notification Form, they will acknowledge receipt and commence their investigations which will include:

a. Establishing the facts of the accident. b. Seeking confirmation from the relevant compensation body that they may handle the claim on behalf of the claimant. c. Ascertaining the Road Traffic Accident Law in the Country of the accident. d. If applicable, obtaining a Motor Assessors Report on the damage to the vehicle (not relevant in your case as you were a Pedestrian) e. If applicable, obtaining copies of Medical Records.

Where all requisite information is provided and verification of the circumstances of the accident is complete, MIBI will pass the claim to one of their claims management service providers to continue and complete the investigation. In due course, following thorough investigations of the circumstances and liability, the claim will be settled by the claims management service provider and compensation paid as appropriate.

Your situation therefore is by no means hopeless. It would be preferable to employ a Solicitor with a view to lodging the claim as there are complexities associated with all claims against the MIBI. We wish you the best of luck in this regard.

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

iMPortant that grandParents knoW their rights

Fine Gael TD and Family Lawyer, Josepha Madigan, has said that it is very important that Grandparents know their rights.

“The recent heart-breaking case, where a child in care was removed from Grandparents who were assessed by the Child and Family Agency as not being able to meet the child’s needs, has put the spotlight on the rights of Grandparents.

“It is important that all Grandparents know their rights and that people realise there is an appeal process in place, whereby decisions can be challenged. At the heart of our Child Law is the principle of the best interests of the child and taking into consideration the views of a child at an appropriate age.

“It is important for us all to recognise the contribution Grandparents make, enriching the lives of a child through contact, as well as providing care and support where a parent is unable.

“The Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 radically increased the rights of Grandparents to make applications in Court, where agreement has not been possible including guardianship, joint custody or sole custody.

“The first course of action for any Grandparent wishing to have access or custody to a child should be to contact the child’s carer and put forward their views and wishes. Failing that, there is a Court process that recognises the interest of a child having a relationship with extended family in their best interests.

“It is vital that all Grandparents know that they have a crucial role in a child’s life, be it access or care when it is in the best interests of the child.”

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your Free Local newspaper

riP oFF car insurance costs needs urgent state interVention

Dublin South West representative and Sinn Féin TD Seán Crowe has called for state intervention into rocketing car insurance claiming that motorists particularly in their 20s were being ripped off due to huge increases by insurance Crowe companies. believes the excuse of rising insurance claims in the courts don’t stack up and are being used as a fig leaf to boost premiums and bigger profits for insurance companies.

Deputy Seán Crowe said: “A number of months ago Taoiseach Enda Kenny summoned in the insurance companies for a meeting on rising insurance costs. The Taoiseach's tough talk would appear to have had no impact and the prices of premiums have escalated even further.

“The excuse of “rising claims in the courts” don’t appear to stack up and are being used

as a fig leaf to boost premiums and even bigger profits for insurance companies.

The Insurance Regulator needs to be more proactive and investigate the rising costs across the board in this sector “Young drivers, small businesses and indeed all drivers cannot be an afterthought between industry and the regulator.

Their

interests and their rights must be first and foremost.

“It is long past the time for policy makers and insurers to focus in on this fact when framing a response to the hugely unfair increases many drivers continue to experience.

The issues around legal costs and the nature of compensation can be looked at but the

excuse of rising court pay outs doesn’t appear to stack up.

“The lack of transparency and the complete lack of an independent right of scrutiny of massively inflated quotes for drivers across the spectrum are two areas where the State and State bodies need to act in my view.

We coVer aLL oF dubLin and surrounding area’s

"Conscious that hard pressed motorists want to see action, Sinn Féin intends to focus on this issue when the Oireachtas Finance Committee is formed and see what can be done to end this spiral of rising costs. I am hopeful we will see some positive progress and bring about an end to this rip off as soon as possible.”

Funding Must increase For doMestic VioLence accoMModation serVices

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your Free Local newspaper

Eoin Ó Broin, Sinn Féin TD and spokesperson on Housing, Planning and Local Government, has called on the government to substantially increase funding for domestic violence accommodation support services.

Deputy Ó Broin made the call following a response from Minister Katherine Zappone to a parliamentary

question which showed that Tusla only received a paltry €15.6m in funding for all domestic violence support services in 2015. The agency has only been allocated €20.6m for 2016. Ó Broin said: “The Dublin Region Homeless Executive has stated that of the 78 newly homeless families presenting to it in August 2015, “relationship

breakdown” has been cited as one of the primary causes.

“Similarly, in a survey of 70 homeless families in March this year, cited by Sonas, a domestic violence charity specialising in housing, one in six said domestic violence was the main cause of their homeless experience.

“In reality, the charity believes this figure is closer

to one in four when you factor in those who have become homeless in the past due to domestic violence.”

“According to Sonas, the majority of the newly homeless families are female headed households.

It also states that one of the root causes of women and children becoming homeless is domestic violence.

“Tusla’s 2016 budget of only €20.6m is for all domestic violence support services.

This will just maintain services at a 2015 level, with a small amount of additional funding for emergency accommodation in the Greater Dublin area.

“Given the growing level of family homelessness, this figure is clearly insufficient.

The government needs to

make a specific commitment in Budget 2017 to substantially increase funding for domestic violence accommodation support services.

“The government also need to ensure better coordination between Tusla, the HSE, Local Authorities and NGOs to make sure that the needs of all domestic violence survivors are met.”

it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.D.

the powerful intercession of Your servant by hearing the prayers we are offering in union with hers. Grant, not only the petition of this novena, but also the grace to follow You who art the Way, the Truth and the Life.

Be in our midst, O Lord, as we unite our prayer with that of Little Rose. aniMa CHriSti Soul of Christ, sanctify me.

Body of Christ, save me.

Blood of Christ, inebriate me. Water from the side of Christ, wash me. Passion of Christ, strengthen me. Oh good Jesus, hear me. Within Thy Wounds hide me.

Permit me not to be separated from Thee. From the malignant enemy defend me. In the hour of my death call me. And bid me come to Thee. That with Thy Saints, I may praise Thee. Forever and ever.

Amen. prayEr to JESUS CrUCiFiED Look down upon me, good and gentle Jesus, while before Your face I humbly kneel, and with burning soul pray and beseech You to fix deep in my heart lively sentiments of faith, hope and charity, with true contrition for my sins, and a firm purpose of amendment; While I contemplate with great love and tender pity Your five precious wounds, pondering over them within me, and calling to mind what the prophet David put in Your mouth concerning You, O Good Jesus: “They have pierced my hands and my feet; they have numbered all my bones.”

(Psalm 21: 17-18) May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Say five Our Fathers, five Hail Mary’s and five Glory

be to the Father, in honor of the Five Wounds of Jesus.

We are appealing to you our loyal newspaper readers to show your generosity in helping us to support an equally worthy charity, tHE iriSH pilGriMaGE trUSt. tHE iriSH pilGriMaGE trUSt is a registered charity in Ireland (Charity Number: 5992), and for over 40 years the Trust has been travelling on pilgrimage/holiday to Lourdes with young people with special needs, from all over Ireland.

Both facilities provide Friendship weeks during the Summer.

noVenas noVenas noVenas noVenas

MiraClE prayEr Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. B.D.

MiraClE prayEr Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. a.F.

MiraClE prayEr Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. G.n.

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

MiraClE prayEr Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for three days.

Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.o.r.

novEna to Mary - roSE FErron known aS "littlE roSE" 0 Lord, in these days when souls are hungering for pleasure and devoured by greed, who refuse to renounce themselves to "Take up their cross and follow You". You have raised in our midst Little Rose, who during her life kept her eyes on the Passion and responding to Your call became a victim, so that she might, as Saint Paul says, complete in herself the things that were lacking in Your sufferings.(Col.1:24) Touched with this excess of love and spirit of renunciation in a world of ingratitude, You have vouchsafed, 0 Lord to bestow the Stigmata of Your Sacred Wounds on your servant Rose. We beseech You, 0 Lord, to make known

noVenas

prayEr to tHE virGin remedy against the ‘spirit of darkness’ and the forces of hate and fear August Queen of Heaven, sovereign queen of Angels, you who at the beginning received from God the power and the mission to crush the head of Satan, we beseech you humbly, send your holy legions so that, on your orders and by your power, they will track down demons, fight them everywhere, curb their audacity and plunge them into the abyss.

Who can be compared to God? Oh good and tender Mother, you will always be our love and our hope.

Oh divine Mother, send the Holy Angels and Archangels to defend me and to keep the cruel enemy far from me.

Holy Angels and Archangels defend us, protect us. Amen.

as our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the last few years including nCBi Solas Centre in Clondalkin, tir na nog (Cheeverstown House) and laura lynn Children’s Hospice . these charities have all been involved in providing vital services to children with special needs and their families. we would like to thank all readers who have supported our chosen charities to date and while we will still be supporting laura lynn Children’s Hospice going forward, we are delighted to support tHE iriSH pilGriMaGE trUSt.

noVenas

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.

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.c om or visit our web page on http://www.irishpilgrimage trust.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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o’connor caLLs For Progress on the neW taLLaght stadiuM stand

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called on South Dublin County Council to make progress in respect of proposals to build a new Stand at Tallaght Stadium.

He raised the matter at the May meeting of the Tallaght Area Committee which then

unanimously passed his motion welcoming the Council’s commitment to build the new Stand.

In the response to the motion the Council Management told Charlie O’Connor that “a Design Deam for the third Stand at

Tallaght Stadium is currently being assembled and will commence work during June 2016.

The architect’s department has also advised that the Design Team will be conducting a feasibility study considering the Stand to the North or the South

and make their recommendations accordingly”.

The Council also told Charlie O’Connor that “full consultation under Part 8 of the Planning Act will commence before the end of the year and construction

will commence in 2017 with a target completion date of the second quarter of 2018.”

The report also added that budget estimates will be prepared during the early stage of project design by the Design Team.

According to Charlie O’Connor this is an important extremely development which has widespread support and it was vital that the proposal continued to receive priority support from Council Management.

SOuTH DuBlIn’S BrIgHTeST YOung CODerS WIll reveAl THeIr lATeST CreATIOnS WHen THeY APPeAr AT IrelAnD’S BIggeST TeCHnOlOgY evenT, THe CODerDOJO COOleST PrOJeCTS AWArDS

More than 50 young innovators from local CoderDojos in Dun Laoghaire, Cabinteely, Castleknock, Dalkey, Crumlin, Clondalkin and Sandymount will take part in this year’s event, which takes place in the RDS, Dublin on June 18 from 9.30am-6pm.

Their projects include an app to educate young people about global warming, a robot that can navigate through a maze and a speech recognition bot that can answer questions.

Over 10,000 people are expected at the RDS for the free event next Saturday (June 18,

9.30-6) when the local youngsters join more 800 young than innovators from across Ireland and Europe take part in the fifth annual awards.

Ireland’s largest technology event this year will feature gadgets, robots, blogs, games and sites designed by our coolest young coders – the kids who can write an app as easy as they can read a book.

This year also sees the of introduction Launch’d – the essential platform for the Coolest Projects kids, tech professionals and anyone considering a career in coding.

Hosted in parallel with the Coolest Projects awards, Launch’d is a unique one-day event aimed at inspiring and supporting the next of generation technology entrepreneurs and professionals.

A host of start-up founders and international thought leaders and top game developers, will provide amazing tech skills and insights to Coolest Projects participants the start-ups and involved, as well as the wider tech community.

Coolest Projects has seen young people deliver projects across the latest technologies

from Cloud, to Internet of Things (IoT) to Virtual Reality and has the real potential to drive vital digital skills across a pan-European platform.

“Coolest Projects provides the bridge from learning coding at local skills CoderDojos to innovating and creating future employment. We are the piece in the middle which makes the connection,” said Coolest Projects cofounder Noel King.

“These digital skills are vital if Europe is to address the coding skills shortage which has led to 500,000 open job postings across the

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Ireland’s brightest young inventors will be attending the Coolest Projects Awards at the RDS on Saturday June 18. Tickets free from coolestprojects.org (Picture Conor McCabe Photography)

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by Lynda O'Donoghue Donnelly

email: lynda@newsgroup.ie

TOP FIVE FILMS – War

There is something very raw about war movies – something that can transport you to an entirely different world for two tense hours.

Here we pick our Top Five Films – War and take a look at the stark reality of what really goes on in our world.

Many of these selections are based on true events; real men and women who risk their lives in the name of peace, God, core and country.

From the new to the old these classic movies will make you think about the impact violence and war has on real life people…

1. 13 Hours – The 2016 movie about six security consultants working from an unknown CIA base in Benghazi is based on true events. Just as their tour is about to come to an end their stay is extended to provide back up for the visit of an American ambassador.

What follows is a night of horror, violence and death.

Not knowing whether they will survive the men vow to defend the American compound for as long as they can stand. Outstanding performance from John Krasinski in this brilliantly compelling film.

A scene from 13 Hours

2. american Sniper – Based on the life story of Chris Kyle, American Sniper is a harrowing account of how war affects real life. Kyle was the deadliest marksman in the military with 160 confirmed kills during his tours in Iraq. However, his job took a serious toll on his family life. Shortly before the movie was released Kyle was murdered by a former marine whom he was mentoring. An unbelievable story with a tragic ending.

3. Full Metal Jacket – A recruit who is assigned to the military newspaper Stars and Stripes tells the story of war from his time as a trainee to covering stories on the frontline. The 1987 Stanley Kubrick film is an all-time classic and despite its violent and vulgar scenes it is one of the most celebrated war films ever.

4. platoon – Another classic American war film Platoon is full of likable characters, great performances and iconic scenes. A stellar cast including Charlie Sheen, Willem Defoe and Tom Berenger navigate their way through the Vietnam war – dealing with internal conflict, illegal activity and

their own morality. A mustsee movie.

5. Saving private ryan – A story that zeros in on a group of Rangers sent behind enemy lines to retrieve the last surviving Ryan brother.

The mother of Private James Ryan finds out that three of her sons have been killed in action and it is decided that her last remaining son, who is also at war, will be sent home.

The Rangers, led by Captain Miller, are tasked with finding him and bringing him back alive. But war is never that simple.

Films that depict the reality of war are all at once compelling and tragic – it is difficult to know quite how to feel about watching real life atrocities re-imagined for entertainment.

However, these films also play their part in making parts of the world not touched by war aware of what is happening around the globe.

So go ahead, grab one of our Top Five Films – War and decide for yourself if violence is the answer; you could be questioning for years.

Passenger to play Vicar Street

One of the most hotly tipped artists in recent years, Passenger, will play the Vicar Street this December as part of a massive world tour.

Starting in America this August the Englishman will play gigs in 18 different countries before the end of 2016.

He will also play 10 dates in the UK and Ireland as part of the tour, taking to the stage in Vicar Street, Dublin on December 3rd.

This tour will see Passenger backed by a full live band – a stark contrast to his usual one-man show and a different prospect for fans.

The talented singersongwriter, whose real

name is Michael David Rosenberg, was previously one half of the band, Passenger, but decided to keep the name when the duo split in 2009.

He has had a number of hits in recent years with his single “Let Her Go” receiving airplay all over the world and nominated for several awards.

The song topped the charts in many countries and was nominated for the Brit Award for British Single of the Year – amassing a staggering one billion YouTube views along the way.

Passenger also received the British Academy's Ivor Novello Award for Most

Performed Work in 2014.

The musician has also performed with his good friend and fellow artist Ed Sheeran on his sold out world tour and has also raised money for different children’s charities in the UK. Tickets for his only Dublin show taking place in Vicar Street on Saturday, December 3rd go on sale this week.

Priced from €30 tickets are available from Ticketmaster and usual outlets.

For more information about tour dates and upcoming shows visit www.passengermusic.com.

experience the world of wildlife through the “hearts, minds and senses” of these lovable foxes.

Other books in the series include Run to Earth, Run Swift, Run Free and Run for Cover.

McCaughren, who has worked as a journalist and broadcaster has won many accolades for his work including the Young Person’s Books of the Decade, the

Medal for Young People’s Books and the Oscar Wilde Society’s Literary Recognition award.

Run With The Wind

Reprinted more than 30 years after its wildly successful debut Run With The Wind is back on book shelves this month.

Dubliner Tom McCaughren has delighted readers for generations as his Run With The Wind series caught the hearts and minds of people across the country.

Set in the valley of Glensinna the book focuses on foxes living in danger of hunted and trapped near their Beech Paw home.

With hunters on the prowl they have no other choice and all set out together in search of the “secret of survival” – no matter what the cost.

Under the guidance of the wise Old Sage Brush the foxes embark on a journey across the city – making new friends and discovering who they really are along the way.

Run With The Wind is a children’s classic, reprinted

by The O’Brien Press, to bring this story to a new generation – three decades after it was originally released in 1983.

Following Black Tip, Vickey, Fang and Old Sage Brush this book takes the reader into the mind of the foxes and will ignite the imagination of young and old.

The animal adventure tale allows youngsters to

Allow yourself to get caught up in the foxes bid for survival in this truly classic and enthralling Irish book.

Run With The Wind was published by The O’Brien Press on June 6th and is available now from all good book stores priced €8.99.

Motoring with newsgroup your Free Local newspaper

21

MErCEDES-BEnZ prEparES For C-ClaSS CaBriolEt arrival

Mercedes-Benz is preparing the way for the arrival into Ireland next September of their new two-door, opentop C-Class Cabriolet – the first convertible model produced in C–Class form.

Described by their sales manager in Ireland, Ciaran Allen, as ‘a strikingly sporty and visually eye-catching model, with a design that oozes appeal from every curve and contour’, the new cabriolet is a car that is crafted for cruising.

Internationally, the new CClass Cabriolet comes in five petrol, two diesel and one 3-litre AMG versions, of 4 and 6-cylinder design, all with ECO start/stop function and all Euro 6 emissions standard compliant, along with 4MATIC availability in some cases.

In Ireland, focus will fall initially on the diesel powered C220d and C180

petrol models, for which with prices will be announced closer to their arrival.

Arguably, its most visual feature is its electronically operated open top roof that folds away into the trunk when open. Worked from a switch mounted on the central console, it can be opened/closed in just under 20 seconds, even at speeds up to 50 km/h. When open, boot space reduces from 360-litres to a still somewhat ample 285-litres.

Externally, its striking front end with inset star and diamond grille pattern, long bonnet, high beltline, LED high performance headlights, 17-inch wheels, and suspension set 15mm lower than the saloon are amongst its eye-catching features. On the optional AMG line, figure-holding sport seats with integrated head restraints, a multifunction sports

steering wheel with flattened bottom section and sports pedals add to its sporty appeal.

Equipped with a high level of standard specifications, buyers can choose from an extensive list of options that includes additional paint finishes, upholstery and trim variants and additional soft-top colours of dark brown, dark blue, dark red or black. Amongst these also is a Cabriolet comfort package that includes AIRCAP, an electric draught stop system, and neck-level AIRSCARF, heating for driver and front passenger - features that extend the open-top season whilst ensuring that occupants enjoy maximum open-air comfort, even at low temperatures.

The new C-Class Cabriolet which is due into Ireland next September COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS to help prevent collisions by applying brake pressure. Available also is a host of other driver assistance features of which DISTRIONIC PLUS, BRAKE ASSIST and ACTIVE LANE KEEPING ASSIST are

examples.

As one would expect in a car of this class, high-tech comfort elements, safety systems and driver assistance features abound

- including a roll over protection system specific to the Cabriolet – along with all of the connectivity and compatibility features modern drivers demand.

Standard are ATTENTION ASSIST to warn the driver against drowsiness and

one that consists of many different sectors and diverse roles and great career opportunities”.

associated with this event as Sponsor for the third year in a row. It is an excellent event and growing in

popularity every year. Bank of Ireland Finance continues to be a great supporter of the Motor Industry and it is

particularly encouraging to see more and more senior female business executives in this sector”

Pat Creed CEO of Bank of Ireland Finance, Sponsors of Women@SIMI, commented “We are delighted to be

Pictured L-R Regina Doherty Government Chief Whip, and Minister of State in the Department of An Taoiseach, Moyagh Murdock CEO of the Road Safety Authority Penny Ferguson, Founder of The Living Leader,Mary Kennedy Master of Ceremonies,Gillian Fanning Marketing, Director of Serfac Limited, Member of the SIMI Management Board and Chairperson of the SIMI Wholesalers committee

To boost carrying space, rear seats fold individually.

The AMG line comes with special bumpers and sills, 18-inch light alloy wheels and AMG body styling features.

tHE SoCiEty oF tHE iriSH Motor inDUStry HoStED itS 3rD annUal woMEn@SiMi EvEnt in ConJUnCtion witH itS SponSor Bank oF irElanD FinanCE

Women@SIMI provides a platform for professional females from a variety of counties, representing different sectors such as the Heavy Goods Vehicles, Vehicle Body Repairers, Franchise Retailers, Distributors etc to meet, network and share their experiences in what is otherwise viewed as a traditional male dominated environment.

The event attended by over 160 professional women is now a significant date in the Industry calendar and continues to grow year on year.

Women@SIMI recognises the dynamic role played by women who are leading the way for the next generation of women in helping to driving our Industry forward both in terms of business strategy and career progression.

Alan Greene President of SIMI addressing attendees

stated that “We need to capitalise on the different skills and mind-sets that both men and women bring to a business. Collectively as an Industry we need to change the perception of the Industry, as employers are missing out on unknown opportunities to hire women into the sector. We require more initiatives to promote the variety of careers available within the Industry and a well-marked career path.”

Gillian Fanning Marketing, Director of Serfac Limited, Member of the SIMI Management Board and Chairperson of the SIMI Wholesalers delivered this year’s key note address “As an Industry we need to work together to change the cultural perceptions and educate women that when you think of a job in the motor industry, you don’t just think of a male dominated environment but

Women@SIMI again this year delivered a very impressive panel of speakers, with Mary Kennedy Master of Ceremonies interviewing Moyagh Murdock CEO of the Road Safety Authority and Regina Doherty Government Chief Whip, and Minister of State in the Department of An Taoiseach, both of whom provided great insight into their own career progression and day to day roles in state organizations.

Penny Ferguson, Founder of The Living Leader, shared her expertise on Personal Leadership, and encouraged more women to put themselves forward for leadership roles.

22

your Free Local newspaper

eVery day 500 to 1000 PeoPLe are Finding Products in LocaL shoPs using dubLin start uP Pointy!

savvy Jamie Business Heaslip has invested in an Irish app that’s helped over 150,000 people find products in local shops. The idea is simple - type the

name of the product into the search box and Pointy will show the closest shop that sells it. This week, Pet Republic in Finglas received a surprise visit from Jamie

as he tested the app to go shopping for his dog JayZ. With over 200,000 products on the system, the Pointy app is helping people find

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everything from specialist health foods and niche cosmetics to pet supplies, gadgets and craft beers.

Jamie, who uses the app himself, says “This was an easy investment decision.

Pointy has finally made it possible to search local shops from your phone.”

Pointy retailer Brian Stenson, owner of Pet Republic says he's seen significant growth each month since installing Pointy in his shop, which took all of 5 minutes, "Customers can now search our full product range on their phones and easily find where we are located."

Brian was delighted with the surprise visit from Heaslip who Jamie discovered Pet Republic through the Pointy app.

This startup is growing rapidly with over 1 in 10 shops in Dublin signed up to the service. Co-founder Mark Cummins says the aim of Pointy is to provide a quick and painless way for retailers to make their products searchable online.

“It seemed strange to me that you could find things so

quickly on the internet, but you might not know what is in a shop around the corner.”

Heaslip believes that the opportunities for Pointy are endless, with over 90% of commerce still being conducted offline. “Shops everywhere are going to use this. Pointy has that “it just works” magic. When you see it you wonder why no one had done it before”.

Pointy is set to continue its growth having secured €1.12 million in funding to date from a series of high

profile investors.

With a huge range of products on Pointy, the app is sure to be a useful tool for anyone. Coconut flour, medjool dates and raw cacao powder are among some of the most searched for foods.

Other more obscure items you’ll find on the app include microwavable socks, live cockroaches, chocolate cake beer and temporary tooth fillings.

The Pointy app is free to download on iOS and Android devices.

Jamie made a new friend as he tested the Pointy app to go shopping for his dog JayZ. (Picture Andres Poveda)

LocaL VoLunteers FroM Pranic heaLing raise Money For charities

23

your Free Local newspaper

By Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly

Local volunteers from Pranic Healing in Ireland have raised almost €8,000 for charity with recent fundraising events.

The organisation donated €7,500 to the Jack and Jill Foundation as well as arranging a very special gift for Scoil Chaitlin Maude.

Last week Pranic Healing in Ireland donated a ‘Buddy Bench’ to the Tallaght school after 260 children and staff members took part in a fundraising event to create a Prana Meditation and Relaxation Hub in the new school library.

Amanda Connell, Pranic in Ireland, Healing explained that the group has been running a children’s programme in the school over the last 12 months.

She said: “[It] helps children on a daily basis to maintain calm and be in control of their emotions. It also helps them with relationships and better mental clarity.

“Over the course of working in the school the teachers have also noticed an increase in the student’s test results. Children who have special needs also improved focus.”

Amanda explained that the group work on exercise, ‘superbrain’ yoga, guided meditation, ‘butterfly breathing’ and the ‘happy thoughts’ concept.

Amanda said: “One of my favorite feedback testimonials is that of an 11year-old who used the meditation to let go of his fear of heights – he can now walk care free across a local bridge he needs to pass in

order for his family to go to the local shopping centre; life-changing for the family as a whole.

“Our organization have funded a buddy bench that will be placed in the school yard - it will be a place that the children's can use if they need a friend. Over the duration of the year we teach the children that at different times in life we all need a friend and this is a great space to support that.”

At the launch Pranic Healing in Ireland hosted a meditation with more than 300 students and staff and all funds raised on the day go towards the Meditation and Relaxation Hub. Interested parties are welcome to come along and find out more at the free

Parents and Children’s Meditation Group in the Maldron Hotel Tallaght on the third Tuesday of every

month at 6pm.

There is also a free Care for Carers Clinic for parents at 7pm on the first Wednesday

Fitness with newsgroup

of every month at the Maldron Hotel, contact Amanda on 0872386849 for further details.

Teen Line receiving a donation from Pranic Healing

FROM TEARS TO TRIUMPH IN SIX SHORT MONTHS

Prior to joining slimming world, Lorraine felt like she was always on a diet. she tried fad diet after fad diet, detox after detox but all gave disappointing results.

Lorraine always started off each diet with lots of enthusiasm, which was soon replaced with feeling hungry and not sticking to the diet, which ultimately led to further weight gain.

It was January 2015 and faced with a lot of upcoming social events, one in particular - her best friend’s wedding, Lorraine decided now was the time to make a change. She was going to be bridesmaid in just six months time. Crying in front of the mirror trying on the bridesmaid dress, that still had inches to close and few stitches that had popped while pulling it on, she decided that she was going to have to change her lifestyle.

Lorraine struggled to get the dress off and heard a few more stitches pop, finally it was off and down the stairs she ran to begin searching for the Slimming World leaflet that she

recently got in the door. She soon found it, read it, but still wasn’t convinced this was going to change her life. She then remembered her friend telling her all about the incredibly easy eating plan she followed with Slimming World and how amazing she looked.

Decision made, she was signing up. Little did she know this would be the best decision she ever made.

Upon arriving at the first group, Lorraine was greeted at the door with a warm welcome. The room was buzzing with people of all ages, shapes and sizes.

There were loud applauses and cheers of delight when someone had a loss on the scales. Lorraine left that evening feeling very

skeptical. Surely it’s not possible to eat your way thin? She went home and began her food preparation for the week. There were so many recipes to choose from, no weighing or measuring portions just eat as much as you want. “This has to be a joke”, she thought.

Week one was over and it was time to face the dreaded scales.

While standing in the weight-in queue, thinking to herself that she definitely will have gained a few pounds as she has never felt so full, the dreaded fear soon turned to utter shock and disbelief, she had lost 5 pounds! The encouragement from all the other members of the group

helped Lorraine to carry on and lose a further two stone just in time for the wedding. Not only did the dress zip up, it also needed to be taken in!

Words could not describe that feeling. From that moment on, Lorraine knew what she wanted to do, she wanted to help and support other people struggling to lose weight.

Lorraine is now a proud member of the Slimming World team and is the new Consultant in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin.

Her first group will take place on Monday 20 June at 7:30pm. So whether you are male or female, young or young at heart, teenager or adult come along to: the old Courthouse (library), Main Street, rathcoole 7:30pm - Monday 20 June

Above:Lorraine before her weight loss of 2st 5lb.

Right: Lorraine is a perfect fit in her bridesmaid dress

24

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