Lucan News by Newsgroup

Lucan News

8TH. DEC. 2016 TEL: 01 451 3822 / 01 451 9000 email: info@newsgroup.ie web: www.newsgroup.ie

MINISTER AND TDS CHALLENGED

Sinn Féin and Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe has challenged Fine Gael TD Colm Brophy, Fianna Fáil TD John Lahart and Minister Katherine Zappone for their wholly inadequate response to the rents crisis facing many families throughout the constituency and the country. The South West Dublin TD said that every week people were coming to his Constituency Office in Tallaght with eviction notices because they could not

afford their landlord's rent increases. Many families are now facing the reality of Christmas without a roof over their heads because they simply cannot afford to keep up the rent payments. Deputy Crowe said: “This is the third time that Sinn Féin has brought the issue of rent certainty to a vote in the Dáil and the third time that the Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil and their cosy consensus have voted it down. “The ‘Secure Rents and Tenancies Bill 2016’

brought forward by my colleague Eoin Ó Broin TD is a straightforward piece of legislation. “It would mean that any review of rent shall not be greater than the level of inflation as indicated in the Consumer Price Index. “This would remove huge continual increases that many tenants face and would help bring some certainty and security to their lives. “Just last month, the UN Special Rapporteur on Child Protection stated that Ireland

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was in breach of international law by placing children in unsuitable emergency accommodation and stated that Ireland must address it as a matter of urgency. “Although this Bill would not help those already homeless, it could help keep many families in their homes with a roof over their heads as they face into Christmas. “It would give tenants a sense of some certainty as to where they will be living in a year’s time. “Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and the Enda-pendents , including Dublin South TDS - Minister Katherine Zappone TD, Colm Brophy TD and John Lahart TD have decided to vote against the Bill. “This is hugely disappointing to the many struggling families who are trapped in this awful broken system of rent uncertainty. "Surely the onus is now on those TDS and the Minister to put forward their solutions, their own approach to tackling this rental crisis. Even the most naive must accept that the current response of doing nothing or trying push the issue down the road will not work in this rental crisis.”

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ALMOST €36 MILLION IN FINES LEFT UNCOLLECTED FOR OFFENCES OVER PAST FOUR YEARS - Government must look at automatic collection of fines -

Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 HK49. Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and Rathcoole & Saggart News Printed by: Celtic Media Group. Distributed by: Local Post Co. Contact Details: Email: info@newsgroup.ie Website www.newsgroup.ie www.facebook.com/newsgroup.ie Twitter @NewsgroupIRL www.linkedIn.com/company/newsgroup Registered in Ireland: 497158 Tax and VAT Registration: IE 3354179CH Advertising: Anthony Russell Sales Director anthony@newsgroup.ie Design & Editorial: John Russell john@newsgroup.ie Administration: Sarah Brooks Office Manager admin@newsgroup.ie

Fianna Fáil Justice Spokesperson Jim O’Callaghan TD is calling for the Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald to ensure that the Courts Service has the necessary resources to collect fines that have been ordered for collection by it for offences. Deputy O’Callaghan made his comments following receipt of a Parliamentary Question, and reply, from the Minister in which he found that €35, 918923.67 is currently outstanding. “In the past four years, including the first 10 months of 2016, nearly €36 million was uncollected.

“What’s very concerning is that the amount left uncollected more than doubled between 2014 and 2015. This is a very worrying trend, and we need to increase collection rates,” added O’Callaghan. “This is a sizable sum of money that could, and should, have been put to good use by the State. “While the Minister is no doubt confident that Attachment Orders and Recovery Orders will help collect fines, the figures show otherwise. “The purpose of the Fines Act was to reduce the number of people being sent to prison for the non-payment of fines.

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“Without stronger, more robust, ways of enforcing court fines, many more thousands of euro will remain uncollected. This is not good enough. If people know that they can get away with not paying fines, there is little

point in issuing them. “If those issued a fine are refusing to pay, the Government must look at collecting these fines automatically. “It is clear that many are not taking court fines seriously as they know they will not be

followed up on. This defeats the purpose of fining people.

Fine Gael MEP, Brian Hayes has called on the four Dublin Local Authorities to apply for the new EU free WIFI initiative. The initiative known as “WIFI4EU” is expected to be launched in the first half of 2017 and will provide free high quality internet access in parks, public buildings, villages and towns. “Three months ago WIFI4EU was unveiled with the aim of providing free wifi access in all villages and towns in the EU by

2020. A lot of progress has been made since then with plans to put the initiative into practice in a number of towns and villages expected before summer 2017.” “WIFI4EU will be funded directly by the EU’s Connecting Europe programme. A total of €120 million will be provided for the initial role out. It will allow Local Authorities such as Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council, Fingal County Council and Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown

County Council apply for funding to equip parks, public buildings and village squares with high quality wifi access.”

The Minister must further strengthen the system in place to ensure that all fines are paid in full.” concluded O’Callaghan.

DUBLIN LOCAL AUTHORITIES ENCOURAGED TO BE FIRST IN LINE FOR EU FREE WIFI INITIATIVE

“Role out of the initiative will be on a first come first served basis. It is a great opportunity for the four local authorities in Dublin to provide a service to Dublin citizens. I strongly support the initiative and hope the Dublin authorities will apply to participate,” concluded MEP Hayes.

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BATTLE TO REDUCE OVERDOSES AIDED BY PILOT INJECTION CENTRE

Fianna Fáil TD and Spokesperson for National Drugs Strategy, Jack Chambers

has welcomed the introduction of a supervised injection centre in the capital

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on a pilot basis and as proposed under the Misuse of Drugs Bill 2016. The pre-legislative scrutiny on the general scheme of the Misuse of Drugs Bill 2016 (Supervised Injection Facilities) took place at committee stage earlier this month. Speaking following his attendance, Deputy Chambers said, “According to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Ireland has the highest proportion of intravenous heroin users in Europe and the rate of drug related deaths in Ireland is

three times higher than the European average. “A supervised injection centre must be a gateway to effective treatment, rehabilitation and intervention aimed at harm reduction for those suffering from addiction. This centre, if successful in tackling drug-related harm, has the potential to become a broader term viable public health measure which seeks to provide a safe and supervised space for people to deal with their addiction. “A report released in May of this year by the EMCDDA found that while there is limited data surrounding the

facilities effectiveness, available evidence suggests they have “an overall positive impact” on the communities where they exist. “The efficacy of such a facility in Dublin remains to be determined but it is part of a national effort to address and prevent public injection, overdoses and dangerous littering of potentially infectious needles. “The finer details surrounding the introduction of the injection centre must be clarified without delay. The centre and services on offer will need to be closely monitored

and continually evaluated to ensure that is functioning effectively. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a collaborative effort which requires the full co-operation of all stakeholders including the Gardaí. “An injection centre is not the answer to

Dublin's drug problem, but it has the potential to be a part of the answer, where at the very least, individuals ravaged by addiction have the opportunity to retain some small piece of dignity while we work to try to help them beat this terrible addiction.”

TWEET OF THE WEEK ***by Lynda O’Donoghue Donnelly South Dublin County Council will host a special event to celebrate cultural diversity on Saturday, December 10th. From 1pm to 4pm the County Library will come alive with international cuisine, music, song, dance and more. All are welcome to attend this fun and innovative family day organised by the Social Inclusion Unit. Details for the event are featured below in our Tweet of the Week.

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TALLAGHT HOSPITAL “EXTREMELY WORRYING"

Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe has described the figures released by the Health Service Executive regarding Tallaght Hospital as “extremely worrying and another indication of the crisis facing the health system and patients in that system.” Deputy Seán Crowe said: “Tallaght Hospital has been operating under severe bed pressure or full capacity for 35% of the time since January

earlier this year. “Full capacity was supposedly an emergency measure that has become an everyday measure right across the hospital system. “Last week Tullamore Hospital which has operated at 89% full closure, a 103 year old woman was left for 115 hours on a trolley “This is extremely worrying and another indication of the crisis facing the health system and vulnerable

patients in that system. “This basically means that all elective surgeries proposed for the day are cancelled; and patients are put back again on a waiting list for their life changing operations because a bed is not available in the hospital. “Full capacity means additional beds being put on wards with health and safety inevitably suffering and the added danger of cross infection with

attention to detail more likely to be overlooked by hardpressed staff. “Full bed capacity means that there is additional pressure on staff to discharge patients to try and free up beds. It could mean patients being sent home earlier even if they are not ready and additional pressure being put on loved ones to bring ill patients back home even in situations when support is not available.

“This week it also emerged that the Task Force established to investigate and respond to the bed shortage

crisis had only met twice in the last year. This is unbelievable, unacceptable and needs to be addressed

with urgency by the Health Minister Simon Harris and the HSE before the winter surge in demand kicks in.”

REGULATIONS NEEDED TO PREVENT PUBS INTRODUCING LOYALTY CARDS WHICH PROMOTE EXCESSIVE DRINKING Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, has said that regulations are needed to prevent pubs introducing loyalty cards. Senator Noone was commenting after the granting of a licence to a Cork publican who has proposed to introduce a loyalty card scheme for

alcohol consumption. "A loyalty card system which would reward the consumption of alcohol with yet more alcohol, will inevitably encourage some to drink excessively, with the possibility of public order and other issues following. "Alcohol consumption in Ireland has trebled

since 1960, while liver disease caused by alcohol consumption has trebled since the 1990’s. "These figures are truly alarming and we must do all we can to prevent excessive drinking, not encourage it. "Section 16 of the 2008 Intoxicating Liquor Act permits the making

of regulations in the interest of public health and safety; however, no regulations have been made to date. Section 16 is due to be repealed and replaced in the Public Health Alcohol Bill, so I am calling for the introduction of regulations which will prevent such initiatives as pub loyalty cards.”

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DECLINE IN LOCAL GARDA RESERVISTS WORRYING

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West, John Curran has called on the Government to strengthen the number of Garda reservists assigned to policing in Dublin Mid-West. Speaking on the issue Deputy Curran said: “Through a parliamentary question to the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality I have obtained new information which shows that the number of Garda reservists

assigned to policing in the Western DMR has fallen by almost 50% since September 2014.

The information shows that 64 Garda reservists were assigned to the local Garda Stations of Dublin Mid-West in 2014, but this figure has now fallen to 35 as of September 2016. This year alone there has been a 10% decrease in the number of Garda reserves allocated to policing in our local Garda stations of:

Lucan, Ronanstown and Clondalkin. Commenting on the figures Deputy Curran said, “Garda reservists are critical in preventing crime and anti-social behaviour in our local communites, while ensuring people feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.

“It is widely acknowledged that we need more Gardaí assigned to community policing to instil full public confidence in our

policing force. The 2015 Garda Inspectorate Report raised serious concerns surrounding the commitment to community policing, and it made the recommendation that more Gardaí be assigned to dedicated community policing units, however while we wait for the promised roll out of more community Gardaí, the Garda reserve act in a supportive role to community Gardaí in undertaking local

patrols and crime reduction measures. “The Dublin West Garda division recorded over 550 incidents of serious crime in the first two quarters of this year. Strengthening community policing

and the Garda Reserve must remain a priority.

“Fianna Fáil remains fully supportive of our Gardaí and strengthening the concept of the Garda Reserve. The

Confidence and Supply arrangement between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael commits to increase the Garda reserve by 300 each year to bring the force from 789 members to 2,000.

THAT WINNING FEELING…

DOMINIC’S COMMUNITY CENTRE CONGRATULATED Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has congratulated Dominic’s Community Centre, Avonbeg Gardens, on its success in the All Ireland Pride of Place 2016 Awards.

The Centre was named the Overall Winner in the Urban Neighbourhoods Category at the gala event held in the Waterfront Centre in Belfast. He said that the competition at the event, in every category, was very strong and the win by Dominic’s Community Centre deserves great credit. Indeed, while there were several entries from the South Dublin County Council area Dominic’s Community Centre was the only entry to win. According to Charlie O’Connor “This winning entry is a community centre and serves the needs

of the local population. This centre caters for the inter-generational needs of the area with a strong emphasis on pre-school and after schools programmes and a wide range of activities for its active age groups including the knitting and crochet group, computer classes, photography, Mens choir, table quizzes, craft classes and other activities. The commitment and enthusiasm of the centre staff plus a positive attitude and sense of community and friendship is evident in a professionally managed resource centre.” He said that he wished to applaud everybody involved at the Centre which has gained an impressive reputation for its service to the local community.

Shelly Delaney, from City West, Dublin pictured receiving her winning Prize of a Trip for Two around the world with €1,000.00 spending money in a competition in association with 98FM from Mr. Bock Liang, Regional Director and Partner of COSMO - the Authentic World Kitchen at Liffey Valley, Dublin. The competition was hosted by Journalist Amanda Brunker. (Pic. Robbie Reynolds)

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RECRUITMENT DRIVE NEEDED TO IMPROVE CRITICAL MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS IN DUBLIN WEST

Fianna Fáil TD, Jack Chambers has called for an urgent review of the Government spending allocation for mental health services. He further raised his concerns with the increasing pressure that existing mental health services in the community are under.

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Deputy Chambers made the comments during a Dáil debate, which was secured by Fianna Fáil, on the future of mental health services. “We must all embrace what A Vision for Change is trying to achieve. It is the roadmap to proper and substantive community-based mental health services and to improve existing services that requires commitment from all relevant stakeholders,” he said. “It is a strategy that has the potential to work effectively but, for example, when we examine child and adolescent mental health services there is a massive haemorrhaging of existing community-based teams in many areas. “Figures indicate that more than half of vacant staffing positions are not being filled. Staff

members on maternity leave and sick leave are not replaced and people in crisis must endure significant periods without help or support. These staff shortages have left many families in despair. “When we question the low level of recruitment in the area of mental health, we are told that people travel and emigrate; that’s the way it is. That is no appropriate justification for returning the allocated funding for recruitment to the Department and the HSE. “During the interim period as these positions are filled, the HSE should consider outsourcing counselling services for suicide prevention and to ensure that all those in need of support are assessed, not left on waiting lists. “We need a total change of attitude at the top level of the HSE in the mental health area if we are ever going to deliver and implement A Vision for Change. It is crucial that the Department adopts a proper recruitment strategy to ensure we fill the posts that have been advertised.”

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL TAKES FIRST PLACE FOR HI- SOUTH DUBLIN HEALTHY COUNTY INITIATIVE

South Dublin County Council was honoured at the Chambers Ireland Annual Excellence in Local Government Awards which were held on Thursday, 24th November in the Crowne Plaza, Santry with a win in the Health and Wellbeing Category. In accepting the award, the Mayor of South Dublin County, Councillor Guss O’ Connell commented “This award is in recognition of South Dublin County Council’s aim to improve engagement, participation and the health and wellbeing of all our citizens. The Council has initiated a number of projects under the Health Ireland Initiative to get individuals active and improve the health and wellbeing of our communities. On behalf of all the people of South Dublin I would like to thank the wide number of agencies and individuals, both voluntary and statutory, who got involved. It shows what can be achieved when people work together for the common good.” Chief Executive, Daniel Mc Loughlin added “These awards recognise the important role played by local authorities in delivering innovative services to their local communities. In particular, I would like to acknowledge all the staff and partner agencies who were involved in the winning project and those whose projects were shortlisted for these awards”

Winner of Healthy County Initiative

South Dublin County Council was also shortlisted in the following categories: Supporting Active Communities The Community Initiative Fund Best Practice in Citizen Engagement "Where does your money go" Supporting Tourism Dublin Mountain Partnership Local Authority Innovation Building the Lean Six Sigma Organisation Disability Services Provision Learn to Cycle Programme Best Library Service South Dublin Libraries- Heritage Publications and Bookstore Sustainable Environment Social Credits Commerations and Centenaries Construction of Grange Road Cycle and Walking Scheme and Enhancement of the Streetscape along Grange Road ,Rathfarnham, Dublin 14 and 16 The Excellence in Local Government Awards are hosted by Chambers Ireland in partnership with the Department of Housing , Planning , Community and Local Government and showcases the best practice in Local government throughout Ireland.

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SOUTH DUBLIN’S BEST YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ANNOUNCED

John Curran TD DUBLIN MID-WEST

€50,000 investment fund presented by Local Enterprise Office South Dublin to six young entrepreneurs in the county, all aged between 18 and 35.

South Dublin’s best young entrepreneurs have been announced at the County Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition, which took place in the Local Enterprise Offices in County Hall on November 31st. IBYE, which has a €2 million investment fund, is run by all 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) and is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland. The overall “Best Young Entrepreneur” for the county was named by Local Enterprise Office South Dublin as Aonghus Shortt, age 30 from Food Marble in Glendown, Templeogue. The

entrepreneur also won the category for BestStart-Up Business and an investment fund from LEO South Dublin worth €15,000 The other main category winners on the day were Darragh Mason of Dublin Mountain Design from Boden Park in the Best New Idea category, and Kyle McLoughlin of Irish Garage Equipment based in Rathcoole in the Best Established Business category. The top prize in the Best New Idea category was €7000, with a top prize of €15000 for the Best Established Business category. All three category winners will now be representing the County at one of eight IBYE Regional Finals, taking place

during January and February 2017. Meanwhile, the category runnersup also shared an investment of €13,000 between their three businesses. They were: Gary O’Toole, 27, of Kickabout based in the Synergy Centre, IT Tallaght in the Best New Idea category; Sarah Kiely, 29, of Sadie’s Kitchen in Walkinstown in the Best Start-Up category and finally, Keith Downey, 31, of Platinum Group based in Clondalkin in the Best Established Business category. Colm Ward is the Head of the Local Enterprise Office South Dublin and he said: “We started the search to find Ireland’s best young entrepreneur in August

and the competition received a recordbreaking number of entries this year locally and nationally, with 1,800 young entrepreneurs applying nationally. After a very successful IBYE bootcamp and County Final, the future is bright for both youth entrepreneurship and job creation in the region.” The vital role of the judging panel was also acknowledged by Councillor Charlie O’Connor, with this year’s judges including: Eamon Keane of Xpreso Software Ltd, Niamh Sherwin Barry of the Irish fairy Door Company, along with Colm Ward and Des English of the Local Enterprise Office. The

Regional Finals for IBYE are taking place in January and February 2017, to select 24 national finalists across the three competition categories. Further details on the competition and supports available to young entrepreneurs are available through www.localenterprise. ie and from the IBYE website at www.ibye. ie.

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

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CLEAN CHIMNEYS VITAL FOR SAFE CHRISTMAS

THE STROKE SUPPORT GROUP is for people who have had a stroke, their family and carers. It provides information about Stroke. There are different speakers and topics every month.There is also time for tea & coffee and a chat with others. VENUE: County Library Tallaght Dublin 24. The Library is located across from the Square Shopping Centre and at the terminus of the Luas Red Line. The group is on in the conference room on the ground floor which is accessible by a ramp or lift.

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

Families planning Christmas gettogethers should take a moment to ensure their homes are protected from the dangers of carbon monoxide, according to Dublin South West TD and Independent Minister, Katherine Zappone. Minister Zappone is warning that special care should be taken

around fireplaces which may only be lit over the festive season. Home-owners are being advised to ensure chimneys are swept, boilers serviced and that vents are not blocked by decorations. The Minister for Children added: “Family get-togethers are at the very centre of Christmas throughout the country.

As final preparations are made it is important that home-owners take a little time to do some final checks to ensure that they are protected from the hidden dangers of carbon monoxide.

In many houses fires are only lit during the Christmas season and as a result the regular practice of cleaning

the chimney may have slipped. It is also a timely occasion to get boilers and water heaters serviced and to ensure that air vents are not blocked. The installation of alarms is also advised, although they are no substitute for the regular servicing and cleaning of heaters and appliances. A full checklist is

available at www. carbonmonoxide.ie or by calling 1850 79 79 79. These few weeks before Christmas are very busy for everyone but carrying out this checklist in your home can be quickly done and your family can get on with the celebrations in the knowledge that everyone is safe.”

NEW VICE PRESIDENT FOR YOUNG FINE GAEL

Michael Ward, from Knocklyon, Dublin has been elected to the National Executive of Young Fine Gael, as Vice President. Michael is 25 and works in public relations. Since joining YFG in 2008, Michael has served in various positions, including in Trinity, Dublin South West and the DRC. His YFG high-points include winning the 2013 Great Debate and serving as International Committee Chairperson. “I am very honoured to become the Vice President of Young Fine Gael. This is a great organisation that brings together young people of all different backgrounds to campaign for policy change and learn about politics. I hope to work with all members to create a unified organisation where every member

can play their part. YFG has given me great opportunities and I want to make sure it does so for every other member.” Young Fine Gael is the youth wing of the Fine Gael party, with a network of thousands of members nationwide aged between 15 and 35. Founded by Garret FitzGerald in 1977 as Ireland’s first independent political youth organisation, YFG has been involved in many political campaigns on issues such as insurance for Young Drivers, the price of housing for young homebuyers and the issue of youth depression and suicide. YFG is also a member of the Youth of the European People's Party (YEPP). Anyone interested in becoming a member of YFG can do so at http:// www.yfg.ie/joining-yfg.

Michael Ward from Knocklyon, Dublin elected as Vice President of Young Fine Gael

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DEPUTY JOHN CURRAN SUPPORTS IRISH HOSPICE FOUNDATION ‘HAVE YOUR SAY’ CAMPAIGN Dublin TD John Curran helped facilitate the Oireachtas presentation by The Irish Hospice Foundation’s which focused on their ‘Have Your Say’ campaign. The Dublin TD is also a supporter of #haveyoursayirl which has attracted 2,500 responses from the people of Ireland on what matters to them at end of life. Deputy Curran was part of a large group of Oireachtas members and staff who heard about how people are sharing their experiences of dying, death and bereavement as part of the Have Your Say campaign which can be completed online http://svy.mk/2fD64hq or in hard copy. Feedback from the #haveyoursayirl campaign will form next year’s ‘Irish Charter for Dying, Death and Bereavement 2016’ - the first charter of its type in Ireland instigated by The Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF). IHF CEO Sharon Foley said: “Every day 80 people die in Ireland; that’s 29,000 people every year. Each of us will only get once chance to die, so it’s important to think about what matters to you and give us your views. This campaign gives you the opportunity to have your say on what matters most. “We believe best care should support everyone to live well to the end with dignity and comfort, surrounded by loved ones. We want you to #haveyoursayirl based on your experiences, knowledge, hopes and fears. We can then be informed on how to further ensure the best supports are in place for you and your loved ones. We believe this is an essential charter for the Irish people. “Many thanks to Deputy Curran for arranging the presentation and giving us the opportunity to present to Oireachtas members on this important project which may give us a new perspective on how we - as a State and as individuals - deal with dying, death and bereavement,” concluded Ms Foley. Deputy Curran commented: “Thinking about dying, death and bereavement is not easy; however the Irish Hospice Foundation has done tremendous work in reaching out to the public to get informed and to campaign for each and every one of us to have our say in our own death. To begin a conversation with loved ones and the community on how we die and take care of the dying in Ireland, is a step in the right direction for providing dignity and comfort to the dying and to the bereaved.

John Curran TD and Sharon Foley, CEO, IHF

One simple step is to 'Have Your Say' by filling out your own form on how you might like to die and how you would like your wishes fulfilled. You get an opportunity to share this with loved ones and family which goes a long way in assisting the grieving process for the bereaved and fulfilling the wishes of the dying. The IHF has provided my Constituency Office in Clondalkin with forms, please feel free to drop in to collect one at any stage. Dying happens all of us, this is a reality that has no boundaries, let's talk about it!"

LOUIS WALSH SAYS “YES” TO GUITARIST IRELAND FUNDRAISER FOR OUR LADY’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

In 2015 the Guitarist Ireland annual Christmas fund raiser and draw raised a staggering €12,500 for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin, thanks to the generosity of music suppliers and the. Additional funding is urgently required. To that end the target this year has been raised to €20,000. There are over fifty prizes this year, including a €1000 cash prize. The Draw takes place on 9th January 2017 and the top prize winners will be announced on Radio Nova’s’ Morning Glory’ show. Ticket purchases and donations can be made on the Guitarist Ireland Website or on the Guitarist Ireland CMRF Fundraiser 2016 Facebook page. Tickets available from our website www.guitaristireland.com

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QUAD & SCRAMBLER BIKES – KNOW THE INFO!

In the last number of years there has been a noticeable increase in the number of quads and scrambler bikes being used in an inappropriate manner in urban towns and cities. The use of these bikes on public roads, parks and open spaces has been a growing issue with communities feeling threatened and unsafe. Unless the bike has been registered, taxed, insured and brought up to the

correct standard it is illegal for it to be used on the public road. It is also illegal to use these bikes in public parks and open spaces. The issue of the illegal use of quad and scrambler bikes was brought up at a recent Joint Policing Committee (JPC) meeting in South Dublin and they agreed that it was imperative to educate parents and riders about using these vehicles

responsibly. Chair of the JPC, Cllr Deirdre O’Donovan stated, “Scramblers and quad bikes are an issue that communities have been struggling with for a number of years. We need to educate parents of the dangers of their children using these bikes. We have had too many tragedies and parents need to be aware of the legal responsibilities especially as we approach Christmas”

An Garda Síochána, South Dublin County Council and Motorcycling Ireland are launching an awareness campaign about the correct use of quads bikes and scramblers. This campaign is requesting parents who are considering buying these bikes as a Christmas present for their child to make sure that they are informed as to the

Gary Walsh, Road Safety Officer in South Dublin County Council hoped that parents would realise the risks associated with these vehicles and that they would ensure their children got the appropriate training for using these vehicles. He said ‘The number of collisions associated with these vehicles is very concerning.

The Council responded with the following report “It is proposed that all sites affected by bonfires in October/ November of this year will be fully reinstated by the Council's Public Realm section. All affected sites have now been surveyed and reported as cleaned. The reinstatement process involves

the sowing of grass seed in all cases and unfortunately this element of the work cannot be done at this time of year due to low temperatures. It is therefore envisaged that a programme of reinstatement works at bonfire sites will commence in February/ March of 2017. These works will be covered by the budget for

Irresponsible rider behaviour is prevalent across South Dublin with riders not using the right equipment or riding in the wrong environment. This behaviour needs to be stopped before more deaths are caused. These deaths are not accidents, they are caused by riders choosing to operate these vehicles irresponsibly.’

O’CONNOR CALLS FOR OPEN SPACES RESTORATION PROGRAMME

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has called on Council Management to priortise the restoration of Open Spaces throughout Tallaght which were damaged in the recent Bonfire season.

An awareness campaign about the correct use of quads bikes and scramblers is being launched

legal requirements around these bikes and the use of them. Parents also need to ensure their child is wearing the right protection, is trained in how to handle the bike and is responsible enough to only use it in suitable locations such as official race tracks or on private property if they have received permission from the landowner.

He tabled the matter for the December meeting of the Council and sought an update from the CEO.

JOIN US ON NEW YEAR'S EVE FOR KARAOKE WITH PATRICK KELLY SINGER AND DJ

general works.”

maintenance

According to Charlie O’Connor, the damage to the Open Spaces from Bonfire activity is becoming a serious issue for many communities and he also believes that there must be a wider conversation over the next year in an attempt to reduce such damage.

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GOVERNMENT FAILS TO LIVE UP TO COMMITMENTS TO LONE PARENTS IN PROGRAMME FOR GOVERNMENT

Fianna Fáil Chair of the Social Protection Committee Deputy John Curran TD has said that the Government has failed to live up to the commitments made in the Programme for Government

to publish a report to identify the supports and barriers to accessing higher education for lone parents and examine measures to increase participation. “The recommendations of

this report were supposed to be published in advance of Budget 2017,” said Curran. "Recently, Fianna Fáil tabled a question to the Minister for Education and

CGI's National Executive Board came together on Saturday to launch their new child-friendly Safeguarding cards for their youth members. The initiative has been greeted very positively by the ISPCC, with Caroline O'Sullivan, Director of Services ISPCC, saying,"We would like to commend the Catholic Guides of Ireland ( CGI) with regard to their new 'Safety Bookmark' initiative. It's very positive to see the CGI take such proactive steps to reach out to their Youth Members, reminding them that no matter what they are going through or feeling that there are adults there to listen and support them if they ever need it."

know where to access support services available to them. By producing these handy information cards, we hope that not only CGI members, but many young people, will know where there are various places to go for support and that someone will listen to them when they are going through difficult times.”

organisation was perhaps being overlooked, was the children themselves. Ms Ryan explains; "We wanted to produce something that the children themselves could refer to if they felt they needed to speak to someone about a problem they were experiencing. So with this in mind, we designed bookmarks and cards for the girls with information of who to contact if they need to talk to someone; we also got input from the girls too. And I think you will agree that the design is both attractive and gives straightforward information to the user." In the coming weeks these safeguarding cards will be distributed to all members of CGI throughout the entire island of Ireland, North and South. Then, the next phase is to offer them for distribution in places frequented by young people such as schools, youth clubs etc.

CATHOLIC GUIDES OF IRELAND SAFEGUARDING OUR FUTURE!

Summing up the feelings of all at CGI, while speaking at the launch, Chief Commissioner Cecilia Browne said, “It is important, as a youth organisation, for CGI to ensure that our members

CGI have always been cognisant of their responsibilities towards their youth members and to this end all adult members of CGI (who are all volunteers) are Garda vetted and must undergo Child Protection Awareness training; guidelines have been developed for all adult leaders, and leaflets detailing the various processes are distributed to parents. However, the one area that Barbara Ryan, Development Commissioner, felt that as a child-centred

CGI's Development Commissioner Barbara Ryan and Chief Commissioner Cecila Browne launching their new Safeguarding cards with some of their youth members

Skills, Richard Bruton TD on this issue, and was told that the review had not been published in advance of the Budget.” “Minister Bruton went on to say that the review is currently being finalised.” “The Minister attempted to claim that the review had progressed sufficiently to inform policy discussions between the relevant Departments in advance of

Budget 2017," added the Dublin Mid-West TD. "This isn’t acceptable, and better is needed from the Government when it comes to Lone Parents." "Despite promises made when the Programme for Government was agreed, Fine Gael are reneging on commitments made to tackle the issue of social exclusion for one parents and their children."

“The evidence is clear for anyone to see. Lone parents are amongst one of the most vulnerable groups in Irish society. Nearly 59% of lone parent households experience deprivation." "The Government must publish this report as soon as possible, and to use the findings to inform policy and improve outcomes for lone parents and their children,” concluded Curran.

Local Councillor Charlie O’Connor has again raised issues relating to Butler/ McGee Park at the monthly meeting of the Tallaght Area Committee and asked that progress would be made on all issues of concern to the Fettercairn Estate Management Committee, Mark’s Celtic Football Club and St Mark’s GAA Club.

regarding the Park." The Council Management report in response to Charlie O’Connor’s motion stated as follows “Following the tender process for supply and erection of the railing at Drumcairn Parade/ Butler McGee Park which was required in order to comply with procurement rules, a preferred bidder was selected from this process and an order has now been placed with them. It will take a number of weeks for the supplier to fabricate the 250 metres of railing, which in turn will mean that installation of the new railing will not commence until early in January. Once started it is expected that the installation works will take approximately two weeks to complete. Provision has also now been made in the Council's Capital Works Programme for the completion of necessary boundary treatment works around the park and these works will be carried out in 2017. With regard to the issue of consultation with the local community on this

matter, no consultations have taken place. It should be noted that the railing to be installed is decorative in style and will not be a security type palisade fence. In this regard it is expected that the style of railing will be acceptable to local residents, while the need for the railing to control access and reduce ongoing damage to the park and danger to park users is well established." According to Charlie O’Connor, this is a most important issue for the Clubs and indeed the wider community and he has committed to continue to closely monitor the situation on their behalf.

O’CONNOR CALLS FOR FURTHER ACTION AT BUTLER/MCGEE PARK

In his motion to the meeting he proposed that " this Tallaght Area Commitee welcomes proposals to provide security fencing at Butler/McGee Park and applauds the decision of management to respond positively to the all Party support in the matter following calls to members from Marks Celtic FC and St Marks GAA Club; will he confirm the schedule now being followed in respect of the delivery of the works; will he confirm what consultations have taken place with the local community regarding the type of fencing to be provided and will he also report on plans to respond further to the stated concerns of both Clubs

Councillor O’Connor

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DID ANY OF YOUR ANCESTORS LIVE THROUGH OR TAKE PART WHEN THE FOUR COURTS WAS OCCUPIED AND THEN ATTACKED DURING THE CIVIL WAR?

Maybe one of your relatives fired the artillery guns which turned much of the building to rubble. Or perhaps you have family who recall the terrible night of May 1941 when Nazi bombs rained down on Dublin, devastating the North Strand, killing 28 people and injuring a further 90. You may be surprised at the times in which your recent ancestors lived, according to a new company which aims to make the past a present for future generations with a revolutionary new way of compiling family histories, which will prove a boon for those planning upcoming celebrations. A unique new service,

Histories In The Making, presents people’s family research in a readable and informative way, putting that information into a wider historical context and delivering it in a way that is readable for all the family. They also deliver that research in more techfriendly way by offering their clients updatable, interactive web pages that can be sent to family members all around the globe. Most families have an amateur historian – the one person who provides information on the family tree if a milestone celebration or gathering is planned.

However, with the oral tradition dying, and many families now connected digitally around the world, there is a fear that this information will become stagnant or lost. “We want to package the past for families. Very often, people will either have scraps of information about an ancestor or they might have a vast tome of genealogical research that is difficult to read,” said David Lawlor, of Histories In The Making. “We knit their stories together and package what people have discovered, putting it into a broader historical context. “We produce printed

posters and brochures, and also offer clients a secure digital file, which is easily updated to the entire family network in real time, allowing the family history to grow organically as time moves on. “Once you have sent the file to family members, any subsequent additions to it will automatically update on the original file received by relatives.” David Lawlor, a journalist and history blogger who has written six novels, likes nothing more than to tell a story. “I want families’ ancestral stories to be personal and not dry pieces of information that people

struggle to relate to,” said David. “Histories In The Making brings family histories to life and gives people more of a sense of both who their ancestors were and times they lived in. “As the country starts to wind down its centenary celebrations for 1916, one thing is for sure – the past has never felt so present in all our lives. “Over the course of the year, families here and abroad have looked back at 1916 and at broader events in World War I to see what their ancestors did during that seismic time in history. “An industry has grown up around people’s search to

understand who they are and where their ancestors came from. “With more and more families migrating to farflung lands, the bonds that tie relatives together are being stretched to breaking point. “The oral history that was once passed down from generation to generation about our ancestors is being lost. “Thankfully, there are family members who will step forward and try to retrieve their pasts through genealogical research. “The downside to that lies in the dry, uninspiring report that is usually the product of such work – which is where we come in.”

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

In this edition of the paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors, deals with Holidays as some of us may be looking forward to a Holiday during or after Christmas. As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally, Solicitors, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Tel. 4599506, Email – legal@scally.ie. Q. I have booked my holiday after Christmas with a travel agent. Am I protected if anything goes wrong under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act of 1995? A. To avail of the protection of the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995, the holiday must fit in to a prearranged description. In other words, the holiday you booked must consist of at least two of the following. 1. Travel 2. Accommodation 3. Tourist Service or Activity that is not directly linked to Transport or Accommodation but makes up a significant part of the cost and package and is organised by the Package organisers. Examples of this activity or service include sightseeing, organised trips or a sporting activity. Your package holiday must be pre-arranged and is sold at an inclusive price and must last for a period of 24 hours or includes an

FAX 01 4599 510

overnight stay. It does not matter if you asked to pay separately for different components of the package (i.e. the Flight or Accommodation). Your holiday still remains a ‘Package Holiday’. However, arrangements made by a tour operator or travel agent specifically for an individual consumers requirements (i.e. a customised holiday the details of which are provided to the travel agent and the Travel Agent merely operates as a booking agent for a holiday basically arranged by the consumer.) This type of a holiday is not regarded as a package holiday and is not protected by the act. When you are booking a package holiday over the internet you should check whether Irish Consumer Legislation covering package holidays applies to the particular holiday you have booked. Basically, you should check with your Travel Agent directly and ask whether or not the holiday you have booked comes within the scope of this Act. They will have no reason to mislead you and I am sure will give you an honest answer. We hope that you enjoy your holiday. Q. I have been booking my holidays online now for some time. I have not used a Travel Agent for years. Can I avail of the Package Holidays Travel Trade Act if I book the holiday online? A. This has become widespread now and, although many people still choose to use Travel Agents, A whole generation of people never feel the need to cross the door of a Travel Agent and do it all themselves online. Typically, the protections offered to consumers under the Package Holidays Act do not currently extend to consumers who book online. However, there is a new directive due to be implemented on Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours and, when implemented herein Ireland, will

email: legal@scally.ie

modernise the scope to include ‘Linked Travel Arrangements’, and it will widen the scope of the existing legislation to take account of the dramatic rise in e-commerce since the original Act. The new directive will retain the concept of ‘Package’ Holidays (being a combination of at least two components of transport, accommodation or tourist services that are prearranged by a single trader and are paid for at the same time) but it also introduces the notion of a ‘linked travel arrangement’ which is one consisting of two or more elements bought from different traders and concluded through separate contracts but, linked through personal data such as contact information, credit card details or passport numbers being passed on by the first trader. The contracts must have been concluded within 24 hours of one another to be deemed ‘linked’. The idea of this is to include as far as possible consumers who use the internet TO book different parts of their holiday but all of which are actually linked to the one holiday. This legislation is not yet in place and we will update you, however, for the purposes of your holiday, from what you have advised, it appears as if you will not be covered under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995. Q. My husband and I are just back from a pre-Christmas Holiday to the Canary Islands. While there, I slipped on a discarded piece of fruit in the restaurant and injured myself quite badly. The entire holiday was booked through a travel agent. Would I be able to sue? A. Firstly, we are sorry to hear that your holiday was upset by this fall. Hopefully, it did not ruin the entire holiday. Secondly, I am assuming that

youR do qualify under the Package Holidays and Trade Travel Act 1995 as you booked you entire holiday through a Travel Agent. This does entitle you to bring a claim in Ireland against the Travel Agents arising from this accident and dispenses with the need to bring proceedings against the hotel in Spain. However, there is no automatic guarantee of success and the fact of the accident in itself is not a guarantee of a successful outcome even if you sue. There is case law on this and a Supreme Judgement of 2007 which includes a very comprehensive consideration of the duty imposed on tour operators under section 20 of the 1995 Act. In that particular case, a Plaintiff was injured in a situation similar to your own. The judge heard all the evidence and decided that the test to be applied to the holiday is ‘Not one of strict liability’. The standard in which the acts in question are to the judged are that of ‘Reasonable Skill and Care’. When a standard if not expressed in a contract, it will be readily implied into the contracts. The question as to what is standard obviously has to be addressed. If you were suing in Ireland for a similar accident, the hotel would be entitled to defendant themselves and say that they had a good cleaning system in operation and that this unfortunate episode was a ‘Once Off’. Certain Supermarkets in Ireland for example have a very comprehensive system of checking their aisles regularly thus making it difficult for plaintiff to successfully sue as the Courts tend to take the view that establishments can only do ‘so much’ to protect customers. Therefore, although you have the right to sue, this right is not a guarantee of success and you should consult with your solicitor and give full details of the circumstances of the accident to decide whether or not you wish to proceed with your claim.

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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NEW TECHNOLOGY TO SCALE-UP STUDENT VOLUNTEERINGAT THE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY TALLAGHT - NATIONAL LAUNCH OF STUDENTVOLUNTEER.IE Every year in Ireland thousands of students from our universities and institutes of technology carry out over 100,000 hours of volunteering. IT Tallaght and nine third level colleges have now joined forces to develop studentvolunteer.ie - a brand new online resource

which matches students’ interests with volunteering opportunities. The portal is the first of its kind globally and aims to enhance students’ awareness of their role and responsibility in solving challenges such as homelessness, social exclusion and our ageing population.

Potential users include up to 100,847 (HEA 2015) students across all higher education institutions and up to 8,000 registered Civil Society Organisations. For charities such as Barnardos, Habitat for Humanity, TeenLine and Special Olympics Ireland, student volunteering is a vital component of their

NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Christine MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. P.M.D.

dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. Also thanks to St. Martin, St. Therese, St. Padro Pio, St. Gerard, Holy Angels and St. Anthony. P.W.

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. 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. 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.

ongoing work: Shortlisted for the 2016 THINKTECH awards, studentvolunteer.ie has been developed under the umbrella of the Campus Engage Network based at the Irish Universities Association. There are currently 10 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) invested in the portal: UCD, NUI Galway, IT Tralee, UL, MU, Trinity, IT Tallaght, DCU, UCC and DIT. The online system is open to ALL Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), private colleges, VECs, etc. Students at IT Tallaght can browse and apply for volunteering opportunities nationally or internationally; manage their profile and volunteering activity online; track volunteering hours; gain recognition and apply for volunteering awards. The civic role and responsibility of colleges and their graduates is becoming a central issue in the global education discussion, with increasing

LPD

pressure on institutions to demonstrate how higher education is adding value to society. Evidence shows that getting out and volunteering can improve individual mental health and well-being. Volunteering is also an excellent pathway for international students in Ireland to integrate into their communities and make new friends. Higher education institutions across the country are battling student retention. Getting involved in extracurricular activity on and off campus is proven to keep students in college.

International volunteering cultivates core graduate attributes such as cultural awareness, languages and increased understanding of global social responsibility.

Higher education institutions are now acknowledging students’ volunteering achievements on their academic transcripts or diploma supplements. Participating colleges are beginning to use studentvolunteer. ie to track their students’ volunteer hours so they can recognise their efforts at the end of the college year in Awards ceremonies.

Irish University Association. (Picture Jason Clarke)

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A TALLAGHT CHARTERED SURVEYOR HAS BEEN APPOINTED TO THE BOARD OF NATIONAL ESTATE AGENCY GROUP REAL ESTATE ALLIANCE (REA) Anthony McGee of REA McGee in Tallaght was appointed at REA’s AGM in Dungarvan last week where Frank Daly, Chairman of NAMA, addressed the meeting on a discussion focused on the current housing supply shortage. REA is Ireland’s leading property group of Chartered Surveyors with over 55 branches nationwide, comprising many of the country’s longest-established auctioneers and estate agents. Real Estate Alliance (REA) members are reporting a marked increase in sales activity across the country and not just in the major cities but also in provincial towns, the group’s AGM

heard. While Dublin and the commuter areas are starting to recover from the stagnation caused by the Central Bank’s mortgage deposit restrictions, the biggest rise in activity is being seen in Ireland’s smaller urban towns where the deposit requirement is not as significant. “Throughout the country, our agents are seeing a definite rise in enquiries, with demand increasing further in quarter four,” said Anthony McGee. “Our REA Average House Price survey saw the average three-bed semi rise above €200,000 in our Quarter Three survey – this level of return is now providing as a

catalyst to get dormant developers returning to the market with muchneeded supply. “Time taken to sell has reduced by two weeks to five weeks in country areas in the three months to the end of September and our agents are reporting a definite increase in mortgage approvals. “The Central Bank mortgage deposit rules did not hit the country market as hard as the larger cities as the amount of the deposit required is less. “For the first time in eight years, the majority of our offices are seeing builders looking for development land across Ireland. “As well as available finance having a major

impact on housing supply, a second hurdle is the provision of serviced land. “Although buyers are now more plentiful on the ground, the problem of supply remains. “Interestingly, our agents are now reporting that development land is returning to the market for sale, with builders showing much greater appreciation for the modern buyer's needs. “REA agents are actively engaging with developers to advise as the requirements of new home buyers. “We welcome the latest announcement by The Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government to fast-track the

REA board members (L-R) Anthony McGee, Eamonn Spratt and Eoin Dillon delivery of 30,000 new homes in urban centres across the country. “In particular we are in favour of the fasttracking of residential

housing schemes and the identification of significant land holdings for potential development. “Overall, we expect

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

MINISTER RICHARD BRUTON PUBLISHES THE DRAFT OF A BILL TO INTRODUCE A NEW PARENT AND STUDENT CHARTER

The Minister, together with Deputy Jim Daly, announced that the Government have approved the draft outline of a new law, which will require every school to consult with parents and students, and publish and operate a Parent and Student Charter. This will fulfil a key commitment in the Action Plan for Education to improve information and complaint procedures for parents and students relating to schools. Minister Bruton said that the expectations of citizens have changed, and that education must change too to meet those new expectations. He said that we are fortunate in Ireland to have such dedicated and committed teachers and schools, and that the Parent and Student Charter will underpin those high professional standards.

Some of the issues which schools will be required to deal with under the charter include: · Consult students and parents regularly in relation to school costs and work to avoid costs acting as a barrier · Publish a school financial statement which would include information on how any voluntary contributions are used · Invite feedback from students and parents · Provide a fair and accessible mechanism for resolving complaints, including through mediation. The use of formal grievance and complaint processes should be a last response, except in the most serious of cases · Publish the number of complaints made, the reasons for the outcome in each case, and how the outcome was reached by the school · Provide better information about

School Management, School Policies including on admission, and information on extracurricular activities and school performance · Acknowledge gaps, deficiencies or room for improvement Following consultation with our education partners, including the National Parents Council (Primary), National Parents Council (Post Primary) and the Irish Secondlevel Students Union, the Minister will finalise these guidelines. The role of the Ombudsman for Children will be expanded and schools will be required to consider any suggestions, guidance or recommendations made by the Ombudsman. The announcement is part of a suite of measures being introduced by Minister Bruton, including the School Admissions Bill which will reform

information and procedures around the process of school enrolment, and the commencement of Fitness to Teach, which will allow a complaint to be made about a registered teacher to the Teaching Council for the first time. The draft Bill will now go to the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills for pre-legislative scrutiny. Speaking at the announcement, the Minister said: “At the heart of what the Government is trying to achieve is to use our economic success to make life a little easier for people.” “The expectations of citizens have changed in how they deal with our public institutions, and education must change to meet those expectations. We are fortunate in Ireland to have such a dedicated and committed teachers and schools. Teachers perform a

vital role in educating our children and make such an important contribution to the life of our state. To build on the high professional standards that exist in schools it is important that we seek ways in which to continually improve.” “For the very first time those high professional standards in schools will be underpinned with a Parent and Student Charter. This will set out the principles to guide how schools, students and parents engage with each other, and will place the student at the centre of school life.” “The Charter is an important step aimed at improving the engagement between students, parents and schools. The charter sets out a partnership approach. It will ensure that the interaction between students, parents and schools, is always done in an open and progressive way.”

“Ongoing consultation and better information sharing will be cornerstones of each school Charter. Consultation can be quick and easy. Through the use of online surveys, it should be possible for a school to consult with hundreds of parents quickly and easily.” “I’d like to thank Deputy Jim Daly for the work he has done on the development of an Education Ombudsman. Many of the important points raised by Deputy Daly will be tackled in this Bill.” “I look forward to engaging further with the Oireachtas Education Committee and other education stakeholders as we draft this important legislation.” Also speaking at the announcement, Deputy Jim Daly, Chair of the Oireachtas Childrens Committee, said: “I am very pleased with this Government

proposal which is long overdue and relates to an issue I have dedicated much of my political career to progressing.” “Having previously published legislation to widen the remit of the Children's Ombudsman and to establish a new Education Ombudsman under the Education Amendment Bill 2015 which passed second stage in the Dáil unopposed last July, I warmly welcome this additional proposal from the Minister.” “These efforts are all about bringing a small minority of schools who are underperforming and not engaging with parents as they should, up to standard with the vast majority of schools in our country who carry out exemplary work for the good of our future generations.” “I look forward to debating the Bill with all stakeholders as it passes through the Houses of the Oireachtas.”

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Miriam O’Shea Slimming World Bohernabreena St. Annes’s GAA Club Bohernabreena, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Mornings 9:30am & 11:30am. Tuesday Evenings: 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 087 9703016. Pamela Slimming World Old Bawn The Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Monday Evenings: 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tuesday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 086 1231774 Sandra Maxwell Slimming World St. Mark’s GAA Club McGee Park, Cookstown Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Wednesday mornings: 9:30am. Mobile: 085 1484669 Sharon Daly Slimming World Citywest Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Co. Dublin Times: Wednesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 1402870 Pauline Slimming World Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel, 1st Floor, Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday evenings 5.30pm & 7.30pm Thursday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 7704751

Sharon Daly Slimming World Jobstown/ Brookfield Brookfield Youth & Community Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1402870 Sharon Daly Slimming World Kingswood Kingswood Community Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Thursdays Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1402870 Sandra Maxwell Slimming World Maldron Hotel Tallaght Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Friday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 085 1484669 Sharon Coleman Slimming World Kilinarden Knockmore Junior School Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings 7:30pm (New 5.30pm group from 3rd Jan ’17) Mobile: 085 710 3660

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PENNEYS OPENS NEW STORE AT LIFFEY VALLEY!

Penneys, operated by Primark, have opened the doors of its new store in Liffey Valley, which is the 37th Penneys store in Ireland. The doors officially opened at 9:30am, last Tuesday, as customers enjoyed the amazing fashion at amazing prices that Penneys has to offer.

The new Liffey Valley store, has 53,900 square feet of retail space over three floors and features the latest trends in women’s, men’s and children’s fashions including footwear, accessories as well as lingerie and homeware. The store’s design and layout builds on Penneys

Penneys have amazing fashion at amazing prices

latest contemporary shop fit with 53 fitting rooms, 53 registers, access to free Wifi and three customer “recharge” seating areas for enjoyable and convenient shopping. Penneys Liffey Valley also has an in-store Insomnia café, which offers visitors to the store an enhanced shopping experience.

Gerry Butler, Sales Director ROI, Primark said: “We are thrilled to open our 37th store in Ireland, and 323rd for the company. This is an important opening for us and we look forward to welcoming our customers to Penneys Liffey Valley.” The store is part of a new western end €26 million investment for Liffey Valley Shopping Centre’s retail, leisure and community facilities, including six new restaurants, a cinema

upgrade and a new civic space. Speaking about the store opening, Denis O’Connell, Centre Director

at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, said: “Penneys represents an exciting new phase in the development

of Liffey Valley Shopping Centre and we welcome Penneys to the Liffey Valley family.”

Penneys have opened the doors of its new store in Liffey Valley

HAVE YOUR SLIMMING PRAYERS ANSWERED AT CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH! Meet a busy mother of 2 young boys aged 10/7 years old, she is set to share her slimming secrets to help you lose weight too.

A slimmer who transformed her life by losing nearly 2 stone is using her success to help other people transform their lives and achieve their weight loss dreams too. Cherie Lynch (38) joined her local Slimming World group on the 27th Feb’13 and never looked back. After losing 2st and completing her training, it’s a privilege for her to be able to pass on the experience, insight and understanding that helped her, so that she can give her members by giving them support they need to get them to their target. Support is really the most important thing to her as a consultant to be able to help support members the best way she knows how . It all starts with feeling that you’re not alone. I couldn’t have lost 2 stone without the weekly help, encouragement and understanding of my own Consultant and group every week even up to day. As someone who has lost weight myself I know the challenges people can face, which is why, along with the group every week, we will be there to support every one of those members all the way to their chosen target weight. Setting targets, sharing recipes motivation, inspiration and other ideas along the

way, and working together as a group to overcome challenges and celebrate success is so important to a successful journey. That’s why, at our Slimming World group, there’ll be tons of support, encouragement and fun. Like a lot of slimmers, Cherie had tried to lose weight so many times before by following numerous diets but they were never sustainable because she’d always get tired of restricting what she ate and worst still always felt hungry. She thought she was destined to struggle with her weight for the rest of her life, especially after both her pregnancies she struggled even more to get hold of her weight. Cherie was always the out going funny, bubbly personality girl in her circle of friends, but when she started to gain weight no one knew she was actually dying on the inside as she was so unhappy in herself. Cherie also suffers with depression and knows all to well about mental health and how turning to food was something she also done on tough days but when she came to Slimming World her eating habits changed and help give her a more positive outlook on herself as a person. She never once felt like she was

on a diet. The eating plan encourages you to eat lots of tasty, filling foods like pasta, rice, currys, chips and even sweet treats., You are never hungry and no foods are banned so there’s no deprivation and no feeling of being on a diet. She couldn’t believe she’d found a way to lose weight without going hungry. “Slimming World isn’t just about changing what you eat. Becoming more active is important too. Our Body Magic programme takes the threat out of activity by showing people that you don’t have to join a gym or running , they can build activity into their daily routine without having to take up traditional forms of exercise. Everything counts from walking to gardening to washing the car, running around after kids, even hoovering! Like Cherie Slimming World Consultants are all members who have lost weight at their local groups themselves so know what it is like to be in a members shoes from the very first time they walk through that door. Slimming World Consultants are chosen for their positive outlook and because they genuinely care about the health and happiness of others. With Cherie’s experience of being a successful Slimming

World member and her kind and warm personality and great sense of humour she knows that she’ll be an amazing support to members, cheering them all the way to their target weight.” Cherie’s Slimming World group is held at Chinese Gospel Church, Esker House, Esker Rd, Lucan every Thursday at 9.30am,11.30 am,5.30pm & 7.30pm also every Friday at 9.30am. For more information or to join Cherie’s group either

Above: Cherie before her weight loss. Right: Cherie lost 2st. after joining Slimming World

pop along or call her on 0851008666. Were she will have the kettle on with a warm friendly smile.

For more information on local groups visit www. slimmingworld.co.uk or call 01 6569500

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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 – CHRISTMAS 'Tis the season for festive cheer, joy and laughter so we have picked our Top Five Christmas movies to help get you into the spirit. Whether it is a night in the family, a gathering of friends or quiet break away from the shopping queues, cleaning and Christmas music there is something for everyone in our festive picks. Prepare to be launched into the Christmas season with our Top Five Films – Christmas… 1. Elf – A favourite for so many at this time of year, Elf is the story of human Buddy who was raised by elves. Though he is much bigger (and clumsier) than his elf chums Buddy does not realise that he is

different until he is sent to the city to meet his father. Hilarity ensues and Buddy shows everyone the true meaning of Christmas spirit. Funny and silly, one for all the family. 2. Four Christmases – A couple try to escape family and tradition during the holiday season, only to find their flight grounded due to bad weather, forcing them to visit their parents. Reece Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn are perfectly cast as the couple who hate Christmas gatherings. Visiting their families pushes them to the very limit of their usually fun and loving relationship. Laughout-loud comedy with some brilliant supporting actors backing up the two stars. 3.

Home

Alone/Home

Alone: Lost in New York – Undoubtedly one of the greatest family movies of all time sees young Kevin McAllister left home alone when his family go on vacation for Christmas. The youngster must contend with his scary neighbour, a couple of dim-witted burglars and grocery shopping all by himself! In the second instalment of the movie franchise Kevin boards the wrong plane and finds himself all alone in New York with his fathers credit card and a trip to an iconic toy store. He again encounters the bad guys and it is up to him to stop them ruining Christmas. Pencil in some family time for these two gems over the holiday period. 4.Love, Actually – Although it might be overplayed,

PANTOS Pantomimes are all the rage during the Christmas season and 2016 is no different with a huge choice for patrons. This year the Civic Theatre in Tallaght, Mill Theare Dundrum, the Olympia Theatre, Tivoli, Draiocht in Blanchardstown and the Gaeity all have festive offerings. Starting from next week there will be colourful costumes, audience participation and lots of laughs across the county thanks to an array of different pantos. The Olympia will host Tallaght comedian Al Porter in The Ugly Sisters and Yer Wan which still has a limited amount of tickets available. Porter will take centre stage

in the story of Cinderella and the show is expected to sell-out in the run up to December 25th. Running until January 8th the Applegreen sponsored panto has been described as a ‘Dublinese’ interpretation of Cinderella. The Tivoli will once again host the Cheerios panto Aladdin starring TV3 presenter Alan Hughes and running until January 22nd. Sleeping Beauty will be staged by the Coolmine Panto Group at Draiocht in Blanchardstown until January 22nd with special matinee viewings and an autism friendly show on January 18th. This family-friendly panto promises “song, dance and romance” during the festive season.

a little overhyped and everywhere during Christmas Love, Actually has an awful lot to offer. It is funny, sad and ultimately uplifting as well as chock full of Christmas spirit. The cast is outstanding and the music is top notch so it is well worth a watch this Christmas! 5.Arthur Christmas – A brilliant animated

film about Santa’s son, Arthur, who helps to save Christmas for one little boy. Although Arthur is clumsy and a bit of a dreamer, he understands the true meaning of Christmas, unlike his brother, Steve, who runs Christmas Eve like a military operation. When Santa retires Steve is due to take over delivering the gifts but when one present fails to make it onto the

sleigh Arthur takes it upon himself to make sure it arrives. So there you have it, plenty of movies to make sure that the spirit of Christmas is alive and well in your household right up until December 25th. With lots to do this Christmas season don't forget to make time for friends and family to sit down and laugh together.

A scene from Elf

OH NO, IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN The famous Gaiety Panto will see Robin Hood and his Merry Men play at the Dublin theatre until January 22nd. Red Rock actor David Crowley will play the lead role in the “Pantomime Extravaganza” full of merriment with singing, dancing and laughter. The story follows Robin Hood and His Merry Men on their adventures in Sherwood Forest, fighting against the evil Sheriff as he greedily collects the ever growing taxes. The ever-popular Civic Theatre panto will see the story of Cinderella play out on the stage but tickets for this event are already sold out. The Mill Theatre in Dundrum will host Jack and the Beanstalk for avid panto fans from December 7th to 31st. Promising to be “bigger and better than ever” the Mill Theatre panto is suitable for ages 3+. With lots of choice and tickets for each show available now book in advance to avoid disappointment.

A new picture book from comic writer and illustrator Paul H. Tubb takes the reader on a funny and observational Christmas journey. Oh No, it's That Time of Year Again is an outsiders view of the strange Christmas traditions we are all so used to – told from the point of view of a dog. Between the hat, the indoor trees with colourful, dangly decorations and so much constant noise, what is a canine companion to make of it all? Four-legged Isiah is just trying to understand everything that comes as part of the Christmas Season - that most human, but confusing time of year. The book, which is also illustrated by Paul, is a humorous and honest account of the holiday season and will make you wonder why us humans do the things we do. Dublin author Paul began writing more than a decade ago after he married his wife, Daria, and the pair discovered they were expecting a baby. Paul wanted to write some

‘silly rhymes’ for their unborn child but after the couple sadly suffered a miscarriage, he decided it would be therapeutic to write the rhymes anyway. He later showed them to his wife and some friends and was greatly encouraged but their reaction. As he was unsure about finding someone to illustrate his words Paul decided that he would do some drawings for his poems and stories himself. With a passion for comics and cartoons Paul went on to create what he thought would be suitable

illustrations and when he continued to receive very positive feedback he knew he was on the right track. Over the last number of years Paul has been ‘doodling’ full-time, creating mini books for children to enjoy and going nowhere without a pen and pad for his creations. Oh No, it's That Time of Year Again is his second book and was released by publishing company Emu Ink on Wednesday, December 7th. Visit the website www. emuink.ie to order your copy, priced €12.99, for Christmas.

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