Rathcoole saggart news 11 12 17 by Newsgroup

11th December 2017

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM Fianna Fáil TD Jack Chambers has emphasised the need for legislation to ensure that vulnerable gamblers in Ireland are properly protected. Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Chambers said, “Gambling addiction has become an unspoken scourge on our society and in fact Ireland has one of the highest global rates of addiction and problem gambling per capita.

“Many vulnerable young people, particularly men have been affected by this surreptitious habit and are often the victims of spiralling debts and impose devastating collateral damage as a result of their addiction. “Advances in technological innovation and the growing popularity of social media have increased the impulse to gamble and have

also widened its accessibility. Internet gambling is thought to be more highly addictive than traditional forms, which have long been popular in Ireland. “One thing is clear; the need for stringent protections and robust legislation has never been greater. This Government has been stalling on the Gambling Control Bill 2013 despite it being a core element of

the Programme for Government. “Fianna Fáil has recently put forward a Bill which places an emphasis on the principle of harm reduction and prevention. Regulating marketing, advertising and age restrictions are also an essential feature of any legislation. He added, “A study carried out by Dr. Crystal Fulton (UCD) which examined developments in the gambling sector since 2013 proposed a national gambling strategy, under the remit of the Department of Health, with specific regard to addiction. “As the findings of the Fulton Report suggest, it is important that we see progress on a national gambling strategy for co-ordinated service provision. “Gambling is the elephant in the room – A substantial issue that so many are acutely aware of but reluctant to recognise. It is time that emerging trends are addressed and those caught up in problem gambling are better protected,” concluded Deputy Chambers.

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LOCAL SCHOOLS URGED TO ‘STAND UP’ TO HOMOPHOBIA

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: Meath Chronicle 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

Schools in Dublin South West and across the city should ‘stand up’ to homophobic and transphobic bullying, according to local TD and Independent Minister Katherine Zappone. The Minister said it is unacceptable that one in five young gay and lesbian people still face bullying in the classroom, schoolyard and wider community. Minister Katherine Zappone said: “Young voices in Tallaght, Rathfarnham and Citywest have been to the fore in demanding equality in our communities. They are not shy in

standing up to unfairness, discrimination and hate. Their stance is something we should all be proud of – as it is the foundation which will lead to our communities being fair, equal and just. I am currently preparing an LGBTI+ National Youth Policy – it will be a world first. During that process we have listened to thousands of young voices. It saddens me that despite the progress we have made 1 in 5 continue to report bullying and harassment. Clearly there is still work to do for all our schools to say no to discrimination.”

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LUAS EFFECT SEES HOUSE PRICES IN PARTS OF DUBLIN 7 TAKE OFF ASKING PRICES INCREASE BY UP TO 25% IN SOME AREAS

New figures indicate that the opening of the new Luas Blue line has led to a surge in property prices in the area with asking prices in some parts of Dublin 7 up 25% on sold prices from the first nine months of the year. An analysis of the Property Price Register and of asking prices on its website by MyHome.ie showed that

the average asking prices in Stoneybatter is currently €374K, 25% ahead of the average sold price of €300K, achieved in the first three quarters. The Luas Blue line which opened on Saturday Dec 9th will enable people to travel from Cabra to St Stephens Green via Phibsboro, Stoneybatter, the North City Centre, Parnell Square,

O’Connell Street, Dame Street and Dawson Street. It will also connect up the Red and Green lines. Angela Keegan, Managing Director of MyHome.ie said the data indicated that the Luas together with the shortage of affordable properties close to the city centre was causing a spike in prices. “It’s quite difficult to

LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MAJOR FUNDING BOOST “Every school in Rathfarnham, Tallaght and Citywest to benefit”

Local primary schools are receiving a funding boost to carry out works and improvements, according to Dublin South West TD and Independent Minister, Katherine Zappone. The Minister says every school in local communities in Rathfarnham, Tallaght and Citywest will receive a grant of €5,500 for minor works – and then an additional €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs student attending a special class or school. Minister Zappone says it is important that children enjoy the benefits of the funding as soon as possible. The Dublin South West Minister added: “As a regular visitor to schools I am always impressed by the range of learning and activities which take place to teach young students new skills, increase their

awareness and inspire passion for music, arts and sport. This is down to the hard work and dedication of parents, teachers and boards of management. This work needs and deserves Government support. The funding which is now being made available will allow for small scale improvements in every school and also provide vital support so our children have access to the best possible education. Our schools should be accessible to all and in that regard the funding for special needs pupils is particularly welcome. We must see this money turned into real improvements in the classrooms, halls and playgrounds in Rathfarnham, Tallaght and Citywest.” Concluded Independent Minister, Katherine Zappone.

Dr Katherine Zappone TD Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Independent

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By appointment only Constituency office 45 Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24 Tel: 01 4271072 Email: katherine.zappone@oireachtas.ie Web: katherinezappone.ie New advise clinic open Ballyroan resouce centre rathfarnham

predict the effect the Luas will have on property prices in a given area. Based on several reports which examined property prices near the Green and Red lines a 10% increase would not seem unreasonable and that seems to be happening in Cabra. The increases in Stoneybatter are well in excess of that but other factors are probably at play there such as its popularity, café culture and proximity to the city centre.“ “While asking prices in Phibsboro may be pausing for now – and it’s important to remember this is a snapshot in time - we don’t see them retreating from their current level. Clearly the shortage of properties in the €250K to €350K price

range in Dublin generally is another key factor.” According to MyHome. ie’s figures there have been 432 sales in Dublin 7 in the first nine months of the year. Eighty-one of these sales were in Cabra, 76 in Phibsboro and 45 in Smithfield. here are just 84 properties for sale in Phibsboro, Stoneybatter and Cabra at the moment and not surprisingly properties are changing hands quickly. In Cabra time to sale agreed is less than two months while elsewhere its between two and a half and three months.” Dublin 1 Besides Dublin 7 the new line traverses parts of Dublin 1 and 2 where

there are relatively few residential properties. The average sold price in the North City Centre for the first three quarters was just over €291K. However, asking prices in the Dominick Street area – where a Luas stop is located - are now around €356K, an increase of 22%. Ms Keegan said that while it is difficult to ascertain how much of this increase is attributable to the Luas, it’s clearly one of the factors at play. MyHome said all the figures quoted were averages which provide a useful indication of price movements. However the company pointed out that they had not been adjusted to reflect the mix of property types on sale.

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MAJOR GAPS IN DUBLIN CHILD MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES LEAVING LIVES AT RISK HSE WAITING LIST DETERIORATION

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart TD has said the current chronic staff shortages in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in Dublin, is a scandal that is having an adverse impact on the development of children across the city. New figures provided to Fianna Fáil reveal that just over half of the number of staff required are in place to meet the standard which was recommended under the ‘Vision for Change’ mental health policy published 11 years ago. Deputy Lahart said, “Underfunding is one

element of the on going problems in mental health but the insufficient numbers of staff is putting welfare of children and young adults dealing with mental health challenges at risk. This will continue to be the case if these key vacancies are not filled. “The issue of recruitment currently facing CAMHS in Dublin is serious and leading children and teenagers to wait substantial periods of time for essential services including assessment and treatment. “This Government is responsible for this shortfall.

“By failing to adequately provide mental health services we are impeding our own children’s ability to develop and fulfill their potential. “Furthermore, sending a child or young person that is distressed or mentally unwell, to one of the Capital’s busy Emergency Department or to an acute adult facility for treatment has huge potential to contribute to their distress even further. “Many families are not in a position to fund private mental health care for their child but that shouldn’t mean that they are left

to deteriorate on a HSE waiting list. “We can no longer leave it to charities and other organisations to intervene and provide these children with crucial assessment or counselling services. “Through the Confidence & Supply Arrangement, Fianna Fáil secured an additional €35m for mental health funding in Budget 2018. This funding must be used to deliver incentives to attract staff into these vacant positions to ultimately improve waiting time for young people and their families,” concluded Deputy Lahart.

“ALL LOCAL SCHOOLS WILL RECEIVE THE MINOR WORKS GRANT NEXT WEEK”

Local TD Frances Fitzgerald has welcomed the announcement that the Minor Works Grant will be paid to all primary schools in Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown, Brittas, Newcastle, Rathcoole and Saggart, next week. Speaking about the announcement, Fitzgerald commented, “I am pleased to announce that a 2017/2018 Minor Works Grant will issue to primary schools throughout the local area next week. I am aware of the importance of the Minor Works Grant to schools. For this reason, I have prioritised its issue before the end of this year, notwithstanding the other significant demands on resources at this time. “All local primary schools will receive a flat rate Minor Works Grant of €5,500 plus €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs pupil attending a special school

or special class. The grant is worth €6,425 for a 50 pupil school and over €11,000 for a 300 pupil school. “Schools can use the grant for a variety of school works, including improvements to school buildings and grounds, improvement or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture and physical education equipment, the purchase of floor coverings and window blinds, and the purchase of IT related equipment. “As local TD, I work closely with Principals and Boards of Management in local primary and secondary schools. I know the excellent work done by them in using the Minor Works Grant effectively to improve school infrastructure and upgrade the furniture and equipment available for teaching and learning.”

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SOD TURNED FOR THE NEW FRAME FOOTBALL PITCH IN HERMITAGE PARK, LUCAN The Mayor of South Dublin County Council Cllr. Paul Gogarty officially ‘turned the sod’ for the new Frame Football pitch in Hermitage Park, Lucan. The Mayor was joined by Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council and John Delaney, Chief Executive Officer of

the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), plus guests, to celebrate this wonderful addition to the wealth of inclusive sport and leisure amenities in South Dublin County. The FAI with its Football for ALL Programme is dedicated to providing football to players who require the

PEAMOUNT CANNABIS SEIZURE IS A STEP TOWARDS CRACKDOWN ON DRUGS IN DUBLIN

Local Fianna Fáil TD, John Curran has said that the Garda seizure of over €1.6 million worth of cannabis goes some way towards the crackdown on the sale and distribution of illegal substances in the Dublin Mid-West area. He commented, “Illegal narcotics including cannabis which are infiltrating the drugs

market in Dublin, can severely tamper with mental and physical health and are a real danger to our young community. “It is important to remember that a huge amount of good work is being done in our community day in and day out despite cuts to Garda numbers and the resources assigned to them.

use of a walker style frame and also to those who feel that they can compete more equally by using these frames. Speaking at the event Mayor Cllr. Paul Gogarty said: ”I am delighted to be able to formally launch the Frame Football pitch construction project today. Since Esker Celtic launched a team in 2016 the squad has gone from strength to strength with the assistance of trainers from the FAI. This new all-weather facility will copper-fasten the Esker Celtic Frame Football team and encourage new players to get involved. Accessibility in sport is a hugely important issue and it is great to see the club, the FAI, the Sports Partnership and the Council all committed to the ethos of inclusion within the football community. I hope the construction work goes to schedule and look forward to the opening of the facility in the coming

months.” “This event is a hugely significant development for Football For All and Frame Football, here at a club that is leading the way in developing the game for all players,” said FAI CEO John Delaney. “I’d like to thank Mayor Cllr Paul Gogarty, South Dublin County Council and the Sports Partnership, and of course Colm Young and everyone at Esker Celtic Football Club, for their continued support and huge inputs in this development. “To launch this exciting project, as part of South Dublin County Council’s events to mark National Accessibility Week, is a significant sign of the great work that is being done to help those, no matter what their ability or disability, to play the game that we all love.” Colm Young, vice-chairman of Esker Celtic Football Club said “Esker Celtic Football Club, as the only football club in Ireland offering

access to this sport, truly welcomes this exciting facility. When constructed, the new bespoke surface will allow players who require a walker style frame, to play football. The surface is also suitable for wheelchair users and opens up further possibilities in terms of amputee football, such as the desire to establish an

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East Coast centre for junior amputee footballers. We must acknowledge South Dublin County Council and the Football Association of Ireland in funding this initiative. Whilst this is a niche sport the decisions made by these organisations provides a much needed facility from a disability perspective.”

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PETWORLD OPENS NEW STORE IN TALLAGHT

Petworld are delighted to announce the opening of their latest new store at the Lidl Retail Centre, Main Road, Tallaght, Dublin, which opened on Thursday 7th December. To celebrate the opening of the new store there will be a 20% discount off everything in store every day up to and including Sunday December 17th. Petworld Tallaght is the latest in the family of Petworld stores around the country and it brings a new level of expertise and quality to the community of pets and pet owners in Tallaght. “Petworld are delighted to be opening our new store in Tallaght,” said Chief Operations Officer, Stuart Cooper. “Our new Sarah’s Kitchen area will promote the importance of high quality and wholesome natural ingredients and

TO CELEBRATE THE OPENING OF THE NEW STORE THERE WILL BE A 20% DISCOUNT OFF EVERYTHING IN STORE EVERY DAY UP TO AND INCLUDING SUNDAY DECEMBER 17TH. balanced nutrition for your pets so that they live a long and happy life.” The Petworld Tallaght team of Stephanie, Joy, Shauna, Mark, Denise and Ann Marie are passionate about the needs of pets and their

owners and are committed to providing you with the best products, exceptional service and expert advice to help you to be great pet parents and for your pet to live long, healthy and happy lives. Petworld are a 100% Irish-

owned family business, with a love of animals and a company-wide commitment to responsible pet retailing, supporting animal welfare charities, encouraging pet adoption and promoting responsible pet parenting. With our Frequent Buyer Program, when you buy 9 bags of dog or cat food from participating brands you will receive a 10th bag FREE. So you could save up to €80! Our Pet Perks Loyalty programme ensures that you as customers receive points for every euro you spend so you can save on your shopping and are alerted to our special offers. Our Price Promise guarantees we will not be beaten on price. If you find the same product a lower price locally we’ll gladly refund the difference. “So join in the celebrations

and come and meet all our furry friends or marvel at our colourful fish. Bring down your pet and get free nutritional advice from our Petworld experts. With a wide range of pet food, accessories, toys and bedding, there is definitely something for everybody at Petworld Tallaght. We look forward to seeing you very soon at Petworld Tallaght.”

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PREP ANNOUNCEMENT WELCOME BUT COST LEAVES IT OUT OF REACH FOR MOST USERS

Sinn Féin spokesperson for LGBTQI rights, Senator Fintan Warfield has welcomed the announcement that generic versions of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) will be made available through Irish pharmacies. However, Senator Warfield warned that a possible €100 per month price-tag is too costly for most potential users. Senator Warfield said; “On World AIDS Day, the global community reflects

on and evaluates its fight to eradicate HIV and AIDS. In this state, we are bucking the trend of our European counterparts as the annual transmission rates are continually rising with 2017 set to become the highest on record. “PrEP provides near-100% protection from HIV and this announcement today will no doubt protect some from transmitting HIV and is a step forward in providing accessible contraception for many MSM and others. €100 a month for

contraception however is simply too expensive for a vast majority.

“The generic versions of PrEP need to be assessed for HSE reimbursement without delay. Furthermore on World AIDS Day, I’m calling on the Minister for Health to evaluate the state’s responses to its embarrassingly high HIV rates with due regard given to inclusive sex education, access to regular testing, clinical support for PrEP and reducing the stigma.

IT’S ONWARDS AND UPWARDS FOR PALMERSTOWN CAMERA CLUB

Members of Palmerstown Camera club continue to take interesting pictures during these cold winter months. The club also entered the IPF National Shield for one of their new members, Lorraine Morris, who had black and white photograph entered in the Competition and got an Honourable mention a great start for a new member. Out of 26 clubs in Ireland Palmerstown Camera Club came 9th which is not bad considering the standard of entries so it’s onwards and upwards for 2018 as the club goes from strength.

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MINISTER GRIFFIN ANNOUNCES SPORTS GRANTS OF €300,000 TO GET MORE OLDER PEOPLE MORE ACTIVE MORE OFTEN

A total of 1,118 groups across Ireland are celebrating the awarding of grants to fund physical activity for older people (over 50). The Go for Life National Grant Scheme from Age & Opportunity and Sport Ireland have announced grants totalling almost €300,000. The aim of the grants is to improve the health and wellbeing of older people across the country by providing them with opportunities to engage in physical activity and sport. Groups benefitting this year include Men’s Sheds, ICA guilds, Active Retirement Groups, Local Sports Partnerships, Sports Clubs, Family Resources Centres and many others who provide older people with opportunities to get active. Announcing the successful grantees

at the Ballybough Community Centre, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin TD, said: ‘Over the last seventeen years the National Grant Scheme funding has supported and empowered thousands of groups of older people to get more active more often and the record number of applications this year shows the continued importance of the scheme for groups throughout the country. Programmes like Go for Life, funded by Sport Ireland, will help us reach the targets set out in the National Physical Activity Plan and approximately 30,000 people nationwide will take part in the activities funded by the grants. The success of this scheme shows what can be achieved with a small investment and the

importance of funding sport and physical activity, at any age.’ Speaking at the launch, John Treacy, Chief Executive of Sport Ireland said: “Sport Ireland is delighted to partner with Age & Opportunity’s Go for Life Programme to support participation among older people in recreational sport activities. One of the key strategic objectives of Sport Ireland is increasing participation and initiatives such as this are a great way of encouraging people to get out and get active regardless of age or fitness level. I want to congratulate and acknowledge the groups themselves, and our own national network of Local Sports Partnerships, who continue to provide opportunities for older people to participate

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in sport and physical activity”. The Grant Scheme is part of Age & Opportunity’s Go for Life programme, funded by Sport Ireland and delivered nationally with the support of Local Sports Partnerships and the HSE. The goal of the grants scheme is to encourage older people to get involved in sport and physical activity in their communities and the funds allocated are used by groups to buy equipment, run sports events or to try new activities. Over €5.5million has been awarded in almost 12,000 grants during its lifetime. This year saw a record number of applications and of grants awarded and the number of groups applying continues to grow since the launch of the National Grant Scheme in 2001.

OPERATION TRANSFORMATION 2018

Operation Transformation (OT) will hit the TV screens again at the start of January and groups around the country will be looking to promote community fitness and wellbeing. As in previous years South Dublin County Sports Partnership is once again supporting groups to get involved. SDCSP and South Dublin County Council are once again supporting groups to get involved by offering;

FREE volunteer walk leader training (2.5 hrs), FREE PR materials (banners/posters), FREE nutrition talks FREE equipment

(weighing scales) for those who wish to offer a weight loss measurement to their programme. On top of this we are looking to encourage and support sports clubs to be inventive and look at OT as an opportunity to develop closer community involvement. Can your club offer a free weekly session for new members? Past members? Or the less active population groups? If so, perhaps we can help. If you would like to register your organisation’s interest in getting involved please email info@sdcsp.ie with details.

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS NEWSPAPER TEL: 01 451 9000

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PURE are looking for groups, communities, individuals, schools, walking groups, cycling groups, scouts, EVERYONE, to take part in the 2018 PURE Mile Competition and CLEAN UP THE UPLANDS The PURE Mile Competition encourages communities in Wicklow and South Dublin to adopt a mile of road in their local area and keep it free from litter, which benefits both, the people who live in these areas, and the environment. Groups can also research information about their local wild flowers, plants, trees, animals, built and social heritage, history, and the folklore associated with their areas. Many communities go the extra mile by cleaning up entrances and farmlands, erecting bird and bat boxes, holding information nights and talks about their local areas. The competition is growing every year and this year groups ranged from the beautiful Valley of Glenmalure in County Wicklow, to The Hill Road in Cunard South Dublin, stretching across the mountains of Golden Hill in Kilbride, to the coastal area of Brittas Bay. Ian Davis, Project Manager of PURE, stated;

‘The PURE Mile competition has been a great success and all credit goes to the communities, groups, and individuals who have been involved. There are so many beautiful areas in Wicklow and South Dublin and each one has something unique and interesting to offer. The people that take part in the competition really make a difference to their areas and it would be great to see more people getting involved in the 2018 PURE Mile competition.’ Groups can focus on all aspects of the competition, or just one aspect, e.g. litter picks, clean-ups of their areas, anti-dumping initiatives, heritage projects and education projects. PURE will supply all groups who enter the competition with bags, litter pickers and gloves, and they will also remove all rubbish collected. They are also encouraging Primary and Secondary School Students to enter the competition and do a class project on their local area, maybe a

project on a natural or built heritage feature, a social history project, or a cleanup project. PURE are again encouraging special interest groups, scout groups, cycling groups, running groups, walking groups, etc., to adopt a mile of road, a woodland, an upland car park, a mountain, or a trail, in the Wicklow/Dublin Uplands and take part in the Clean Up The Uplands initiative. A number of walking and cycling groups have already taking part in this initiative with one member of the Glenwalk Hillwalking Group stated that the group were amazed at the about of litter they found on the mountain trails, but said if felt great making a difference, ‘When PURE came to our attention, our club wanted to find a way to get involved with this great initiative. It’s our way of showing our appreciation for the beautiful uplands where we love to walk. And it’s our opportunity to give something back….to

the farmers, landowners, and communities where we walk.’ If any groups, communities, individuals, schools, walking groups, cycling groups, scouts, businesses, ANYONE, want to get involved in the PURE Mile they can contact PURE at info@pureproject.ie or download and application from www.pureproject. ie/what-we-do/the-puremile/. You can also write to; PURE Project, Wicklow Mountains, National Park, Kilafin, Laragh, Bray, Co. Wicklow and they will post out all the information or request an application form and information pack by phoning PURE on 0404 45547. All groups who enter the competition are invited to the PURE Mile Awards Night, and all will receive a Certificate of Participation, a selection of Native Irish Trees, and all will feature in the PURE Mile Calendar – and are with a chance of winning over €4,000 worth

of prize money. To enter simply put your name and contact details on an application form and the PURE Project Manager will meet you and ‘Walk the Mile’ with you.

Further information on PURE can be found on www. pureproject.ie TO REPORT DUMPERS AND DUMPING LO–CALL 1850 365 121

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CUTS TO LOCAL AUTHORITY FUNDING FOR HOUSING INSPECTIONS LEAVES MANY LIVING IN UNSAFE ACCOMMODATION THERE HAS BEEN A REDUCTION FROM €2.4M IN 2012 TO JUST €1.7M LAST YEAR

Fianna Fáil TD, John Curran has said that the cuts to funding provided to local authorities in Ireland to carry out inspections in private rental accommodation is a direct contradiction to the Government’s claim to better support local authorities to regulate the quality of units on the rental market. Information received by the Deputy through Parliamentary Question revealed that funding to local authorities to conduct inspections fell from €2.4m in 2012 to €1.7m in 2016. Deputy Curran explained, “The breaches of health and

safety in the private rented sector in Ireland, which were recently uncovered must be tackled at local authority level. However, local authorities are now receiving less funding on an annual basis to ensure rental accommodation is maintained at acceptable living standards. “The figures reveal that over the past five years the level of funding provided to local authorities for inspection purposes has steadily fallen. “The housing crisis has left countless people and families unable to afford the rising cost of rent,

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especially in Dublin and have therefore been left with no choice but to live in poor quality accommodation. “It is clear from the Minister’s response that our local authorities do not have the sufficient resources required to regulate the quality of units on the rental market or identify cases of extreme negligence by landlords. It’s a contradiction to suggest that the Government are taking housing standards seriously and aim to accelerate inspections, yet stand by repeated cuts to funding. “In response to recent revelations regarding overcrowding in the private rental market, Fianna Fáil called for the establishment of a new NCT style test to ensure that all private rented accommodation meets minimum criteria before going onto the market. “Local Authorities should be financed properly by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government to adequately enforce laws and inspect units to safeguard against

breaches of standards in the private rental sector. Deputy Curran concluded, “We can no longer leave it to the media to expose

more and more cases of negligence in the housing market. Urgent effort is needed to increase funding to local authorities so

that they can intensify inspections. This is a serious matter of citizen’s health and safety and cannot wait.”

CLONDALKIN GROUP DOUBLE WINNERS

Congratulations to the Clondalkin Round Tower Heritage Group who were announced as Overall Winner of the South Dublin County Council Endeavour Awards 2017 and were also the winners of the Culture & Heritage Award / Gradam Cultúr agus Oidhreacht na hÉireann at The Awards ceremony in the Red Cow Hotel Pictured are L/R :Bernadine Ni Giolla Phadraig, Tommy Keogh, Josephine Byrne , Thyes Kavanagh (Photo by Kevin Keogh)

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR RE: PROFOUND CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES THAT AFFECT THE ENTIRE POPULATION. We write to you with the key extracts from a judgment of the High Court last Wednesday. The case was against the new runway at Dublin airport and it failed because the Court ruled that an extension to a major project beyond its 10 year permission did not require a revised EIA and so the public had no opportunity to participate in the decision to extend the permission. However, Justice Max Barrett accepted our counsel’s argument that we had raised ‘profound constitutional issues that affect the entire population’ and agreed with us that the Constitution provides a right to an environment which assures us of our ‘human

dignity’ and ‘well being’. Arguably one of the most important judgments from the Irish Court in many years, it has received almost no publicity, perhaps because the ‘news’ was that the case was lost and the runway could proceed and no doubt in part because the powers that be would not be happy to read: ‘The rule of law is meant, amongst other matters, to protect the people from their government, not to protect the government from the people’. Identifying a new unenumerated right in our Constitution is like finding a new planet in the solar system or a new element in the periodic table. Most

people thought it was impossible; there were whispers that there was something there but for many decades conventional wisdom was that we had discovered them all. The Courts, too, have been firm in recent years in rejecting attempts to establish unenumerated rights such as a right to accommodation or to broaden the right to primary education. Unusually for a national Irish NGO, our offices are based in rural Ireland and we well know the power of your papers which are handed from person to person and read in the kind of detail that a daily is not. It is for this reason that we are writing you to ask

you to print the abstract from the judgment that has been prepared for us. A well-funded company would of course buy space – we are an entirely voluntary organisation and are literally penniless simply from paying the photocopying and court fees of this case. Our legal team works ‘pro bono’. I think this is what we are asking of you too. The people - on both sides of the border - have the right to know what protection the Irish Constitution provides, and you are uniquely placed to inform them. We would be most grateful for your assistance. All at Friends of the Irish Environment

SVP SAYS PRICE INCREASES A BLOW TO STRUGGLING FAMILIES The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) says that the price increases for energy and broadband all coming together just weeks before Christmas is a further blow to struggling low-income families. “This is a particularly difficult time for families worrying about upcoming Christmas expenses and getting through the winter months when energy bills are at their highest.” says the Society. SVP says that it had expected to deal with 50,000 calls for help over the winter months but already it is getting a sense that this number may increase. In November alone the SVP East Region (Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow) had almost 12,000 calls for assistance, that is 1,000 more than the same month in 2016. “Because austerity and poverty no longer figure in news headlines it is easy to forget that there are still thousands of people who continue to live in hardship and with limited income.” said Kieran Stafford, SVP National President. “We help people throughout the year at times when families find themselves in financial difficulties. These price increase will add to those financial difficulties.’” he said.

HIGH VISIBILITY VESTS TO BE DISTRIBUTED TO EVERY CHILD STARTING SCHOOL

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and ESB Networks are calling on parents, guardians and teachers to ensure road safety, in particular cycle safety is on the lesson plan for all children , and will be distributing free high visibility vests to all children starting school this year. “Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross said: “It is important to remind motorists to be mindful of our most vulnerable road-users. We would encourage parents and teachers to use our new cycle training programme to educate children to be vigilant when out walking or cycling to school and ensure they have all the correct safety gear; high vis jackets, lights and helmets for doing so.” As well as the ‘safe cycling’ message,

the RSA is reminding parents to ensure their child is visible when walking or cycling on the roads, or when waiting for the school bus. The RSA has also issued recommendations to schools if they intend to hire a bus to carry children. The bus company concerned should be asked to confirm in writing that it is providing safe and legal transport services. The RSA has compiled a useful Declaration of Compliance which outlines a checklist of important minimum legal requirements from bus owners. This can be downloaded and printed off from www.cvrt.ie.

THE ‘BACK TO SCHOOL’ CAMPAIGN Teachers are encouraged to register online for the RSA ‘Back to School’

ESB’s Denis Kelly with teacher Lauren Dardis, at St Mary’s National School in Lucan. ESB Networks have teamed up with the Road Safety Authority to call on parents, guardians and teachers to ensure road safety, in particular cycle safety, is on the lesson plan for all children as they return to school, and are distributing free high visibility vests to all children starting school this year across the country in the past few weeks.

Pack for Primary Schools, which contains: A high visibility vest for every child starting school in partnership with ESB Networks ‘Going to School’ leaflets for junior infants entering education. This is a parent’s guide to getting children to school safely; A ‘Safe Cross Code’ promotional pack including a CD of the song and a poster with the words of the ‘Safe Cross Code’ song and dance to be taught in the classroom; The ‘Educational News’ newsletter; ESB Networks safety information leaflet about a fun, exciting and educational way for pupils from Infants to 6th Class to discover the benefits of electricity, while learning to be safe around it

Aisling Walsh of ESB Networks presents hi-vis jackets to Junior Infants class at Scoil Carmel NS, Firhouse, in Dublin 24.Teachers are Ms Carol Fitzmaurice and Ms Niamh Foley. (Picture Fennell Photography)

ESB Networks High Viz jackets being given to St. Kevin’s Boys and Girls School, Kilnamanagh, Dublin. Pictured is Grainne Coogan from ESB Networks speaking to 3rd class pupils at St. Kevin’s G.N.S. with Aimee Kelly-Nolan, Grace O’Neill and Abigail Quinn. (Picture Colm Mahady / Fennells)

Pupils from Holy Family National School in Rathcoole, pictured with class teacher Sarah Kilkenny and right Christina Coleman-Kelly of ESB.ESB Networks have teamed up with the Road Safety Authority to call on parents, guardians and teachers to ensure road safety, in particular cycle safety. (Picture: Tony Parkes)

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DUBLIN MEP PRESENTS EUROPEAN CITIZEN’S PRIZE TO FORÓIGE YOUNG PEOPLE

Brian Hayes, MEP Dublin, presented young people from Foróige with the European Citizen’s Prize 2017. This prestigious award recognises projects and initiatives that facilitate cross-border cooperation

or promote mutual understanding and EU values.

Foróige won the European Citizen’s Prize for the Aldi Foróige Youth Citizenship Programme where young people carry out projects that

improve their local communities in areas like equality, the arts, mental health, and inclusion. Brian Hayes MEP said “I was delighted that Foróige won the Citizen’s Prize 2017. Foróige is an organisation that works tirelessly in communities

Pictured L-R: Seán Campbell, CEO Foróige; Rebekah Hayden Foróige; Brian Hayes, MEP Dublin; Nicholas Culligan Foróige; & Padraig Barry, Communications Director ALDI Ireland

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with young people for the benefit of all. It deserves to be recognised”. Seán Campbell, CEO of Foróige said “It’s such a privilege to accept this award on behalf of Foróige. Thousands of young people take up the mantle of improving their communities each year in the name of the Aldi Foróige Youth Citizenship Programme and I’m delighted to see this effort recognised at the European level. “In Foróige we believe in the absolute power of young people to shape and improve the world around them, and the Aldi Foróige Youth Citizenship Programme offers them a vehicle unlike any other to make the world a better place for all of us to live in.”

Avril Bannerton pictured at the Maximus Murray Trust Lunch in the Shelbourne Hotel. (Pic Patrick O’Leary)

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MINISTER BRUTON LAUNCHES PLAN TO MAKE IRELAND BEST IN EUROPE IN STEM BY 2026 STEM in Pre-school Settings, Schools & More Information on STEM Careers

The Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton, T.D. has launched his Department’s STEM Education Policy Statement 2017-2026 and Implementation Plan 2017-2019. In line with our objective to be the best in Europe, the plan being published today sets out the Minister’s intention to make Ireland a European leader in STEM education by 2026. We are undergoing a technological revolution globally. If Ireland is to be at the forefront of this transformation, we must be a leader in nurturing, developing and deploying STEM talent. This Policy Statement focusses on the many strengths in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education in Ireland while providing a roadmap to address the areas for development. Key ambitions include: • Increase by 20% the total students taking Chemistry, Physics, Technology and Engineering for Leaving Certificate • Increase by 40% the number of females taking STEM subjects for Leaving Certificate • Increase participation in out-of-school STEM learning opportunities and STEM career activities • Introduce a new primary maths curriculum, which will include creative and computational thinking and coding • Accelerate the introduction of Computer Science at Leaving Certificate, with implementation brought forward to September 2018 • Introduction of new

Junior Cycle Mathematics and Technology curricula • Teachers will use a cross-disciplinary approach to incorporating STEM across all subjects • Enhance STEM teaching, learning and assessment practices in early years settings • Close the gap in achievement in STEM disciplines between students in DEIS schools and students in all schools significantly • Ensure that all schools, learners and parents have access to high quality information on the diversity of STEM careers • Build robust and sustainable partnerships between schools, business and industry, public sector bodies, research organisations, further and higher-level institutions and the Arts Achieving our goals will require a significant step-up in support to teachers and school leaders and encouragement of innovation in teaching methods. Actions to deliver on these ambitions will be included in our annual programme under the Action Plan for Education and their impact will be reported on. Speaking at the Launch, Minister Bruton said ‘I have set the ambition to make Ireland’s education and training service the best in Europe by 2026. We are living in a rapidly changing world and key to delivering on our ambition to be the best will be the ability of our education system to adapt to a transformed economy and

society. Our children must be equipped with the necessary analytical, creativity and critical thinking skills to thrive in such an environment. “That is why, during my time as Minister, I have prioritised the teaching and learning of STEM subjects. This Plan sets out how we will make Ireland a leader in the provision of STEM education. “There is a significant gender gap between the number of males and females studying STEM. In this plan I’ve put an increased focus on encouraging traditionally underrepresented groups, such as females, to participate in STEM activities. We are increasing links between the education system and industry and putting in place supports to ensure our teachers feel confident to embrace STEM, in curricular, co-curricular and out-of-classroom settings. “Curricular reform is vital. We are accelerating the implementation of the new Leaving Certificate Computer Science subject for example, and introducing a new primary Maths curriculum, which for the first time will include elements of coding and computational thinking. “I have put together a 2 year Implementation Plan which sets out our annual targets to ensure we can meet our ambitions. I look forward to seeing our progress, in this important and exciting area.” The Minister thanked the members of the STEM Education Steering Group, the chairperson of which was Gary Ó Donnchadha and the staff and pupils of St Clare’s Primary School where the launch was held.

DUBLIN SOUTH WEST SCHOOLS TO BENEFIT FROM ADDITIONAL SNAS

Fine Gael TD for Dublin South West, Colm Brophy says that this is part of an overall increase of 1,000 SNAS nationally in 2018. “This is great news for Dublin South West school children who need extra support. And it is also good news for local people training to become an SNA who will be looking for a job. “Fine Gael is working in Government to support families and strengthen communities. We want a society in which everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we will achieve that by ensuring that everyone gets a fair

chance. “Additional funding for special needs education is an example of this approach, helping us to invest in our children’s futures. “130 additional SNAs are being made available for allocation to schools over the remainder of the school year (January – June 2018) as part of an overall increase of 1,000 SNAS in 2018. Dublin South West schools will be informed of their SNA allocation for the 2018/19 school year by the end of May 2018. This fulfils a commitment that the notification of SNA allocations would be brought forward so that schools and

parents can have greater certainty for the following school year and I commend my colleague, Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton, for this approach.” Minister Bruton added: “We are investing nearly €1.7billion in Special Education, nearly one fifth of the total Education budget. This investment ensures that every child that needs SNA support can get one. I secured an additional €30m in Budget 2018 to fund the continued development of the SNA scheme with more than 1000 additional SNA posts being provided for from that funding.”

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A FESTIVAL OF FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

The magic of Winter Funderland is returning to the RDS Dublin from the 14th of December 2017 until the 14th of January 2018. The best thing about memories is making them and Winter Funderland has created the idyllic festival of family entertainment to make them unforgettable. A Christmas Market and Ice Skating Rink compliment the traditional Funderland event. Wooden chalets will create a village atmosphere in the Christmas Market. A place to relax, stroll and enjoy the specialty foods among the stallholders peddling their unique crafts and trinkets. Winter Funderland also presents an authentic winter skating experience aptly named iSkate-On-Ice. It featuresIreland’s largest 1,000 square metre outdoor skating rink. For junior skaters, iSkate-on-Ice provides the Magic Vacations rink for children aged from 3 years upwards along with balancing aids and double-bladed skates. Experience those perfect family memories of learning to skate surrounded by the lights and atmosphere of some amazing fairground attractions presented outside the main pavilion. With over 40 attractions from around the Continent, Funderland has a spectacular array of choice for all ages. Europe’s largest indoor theme park is presented in the Simmonscourt Pavilion in the RDS. Over two and a half acres of fairground attractions under one roof. Children will be spoilt for choice with Bounce World, Dizzy Drivers, Helicopters, Euro Rallye, Fun Factory, The Wild West, Chair-O-Planes, Toy Town and many more juvenile attractions for the younger guests. Funderland provides the ideal day out for all the family with fantastic family attractions for both adults and children, young and old, like the all new Santa’s Family Roller Coaster, the Magic Cirkus, Christmas Dumbo, the New Haunted House, Ice Jet, the Jungle River flume ride, the Waltzer, Dodgems, Carousel and so many more to enjoy and experience. Funderland also caters for the adrenaline junkies with some awesome fairground attractions. We have selected the ultimate thrill rides from across the entire Continent including the all new Exciter which is complimenting the Take-Off, Frisbee, Zero Gravity, The Extreme, and The Speed Loop Roller Coaster among many others. Funderland offers great value with the option of P.O.P (Pay-One-Price) Wristbands for unlimited rides (subject to height) or the traditional Pay- -Per-Ride option. Even better value is available when you book your Funderland P.O.P. Wristbands and iSkate-On-Ice tickets online. There are also Gift Vouchers available on our website which make a perfect Christmas gift for a loved one. FOR FURTHER DETAIL PLEASE SEE WWW.WINTERFUNDERLAND.IE Featuring Europe’s largest indoor Theme Park, A Christmas Market & Ireland’s largest outdoor Ice Rink

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IRELAND CAN BE AT THE FOREFRONT OF SHAPING EUROZONE REFORM PACKAGE Brian Hayes MEP has said that Ireland must be prepared to actively engage with the Eurozone reform proposals published recently. “Ireland must be at the forefront of shaping the debate on the future of the Eurozone. Completing the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) will be a key driver of the future of Ireland’s economic success, given that the Eurozone is our biggest trading partner. “Today the Commission has proposed a package of new measures to reform the Eurozone. In Ireland, we need to examine these proposals with an open mind and with a forward looking perspective. We have to be prepared for any future shock and we need to build into our economic planning much more certainty, especially in the area of stable public finances.

“There are certain proposals that we should rightly be sceptical about. The proposal for a new Eurozone Finance Minister frankly does not make sense. There is absolutely no added-value to this. We already have the Eurogroup, currently chaired by Jeroen Dijsselbloem, who coordinates economic policy among Eurozone countries where it is necessary. This has worked well. We do not need an extra player on the pitch - this will make our economic decision making more complicated and bureaucratic at a Eurozone level. “The proposal for a new European Monetary Fund has certain merits - it adds to the firepower of the current European Stability Mechanism and may prove instrumental in assisting small Member States when they find themselves with

excessively high debt or deficit levels. “Eurozone growth has been one of the surprise success stories of 2017. So many commentators had predicted the failure of the euro but the bloc is now powering ahead and looking more positive and growing faster than either the US or UK. We should use the opportunity to make it stronger and more resilient. “Through these reforms, Ireland has the opportunity to become a core Eurozone Member State within the next 10 years. This is something we should strive for. It involves getting our debt well down below 60% of GDP as well as slashing our deficit. Minister Donohoe has rightly committed to getting Ireland to a balanced budget next yearthis is a major priority that will put us on the path to becoming a core Eurozone member.”

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The Legal Column TEL 01 4599 506 in your local District Court area. You are eligible if the claim is for €2,000.00 or less. However, only certain claims can be brought using the small claims procedure. You can make a claim if you are:-

Question – I am very unhappy about a sofa I bought from a company which was damaged by the time it was delivered to me. It cost €1,500.00. I can’t afford to go to a solicitor but would like to pursue the matter. My telephone complaints have fallen on deaf ears so far. Is there anything I can do? Answer – The Small Claims Court is ideal to resolve your complaint in a relatively inexpensive way. If you have complained to the retailer concerned and they won’t remedy the situation this small claims procedure could be an option for you. Firstly, it is quite inexpensive and the application fee is €25.00 which you send along with your application form to a District Court Clerk called the “Small Claims Registrar”. The fee is non-refundable and the service is provided

(a) A consumer making a claim for goods or services bought for private use from someone selling them as part of a business; (b) A business making a claim for goods or services bought for business use from someone selling them as part of a business; (c) Making a claim for minor damage to property; (d) Making a claim if a rent deposit for certain kinds of rented properties has not been returned. For example, a holiday home or a room/flat in a premises where the owner also lives. In other words, a house share situation. The Claim cannot be one in relation to an agreement covered under the Consumer Credit Act 1995. Examples of this include hire purchase agreements, loans and credit cards. The small claims procedure does not deal with debts, personal injuries or breaches of leasing agreements. It also does not deal with most claims about private rental properties, except those mentioned above. Those claims are handled by the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). Claims can be made for faulty goods, bad workmanship or minor damage to property but before you make a claim make sure

Romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of ROMAINE SCALLY AND COMPANY SOLICITORS, Main Street , Tallaght, Dublin 24.

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you know your rights and have followed up on other options. To start the Claim, you can download the small claims Application Form from the site at www.courts.ie. You must give your own details, the Respondent (the person you plan to sue), the amount claimed and details of your claim. If the Respondent is a company rather than a person you should try to get the correct name of the company from the Companies Registration Office. You then complete the application, pay the €25.00 non-refundable fee and submit it to your local District Court. What happens next is that the Small Claims Registrar will process your Claim. The Registrar will tell the relevant business that you are making a Claim and that business or person must then reply within fifteen days otherwise the Claim will automatically be treated as, “undisputed”. If the Claim is undisputed, the District Court will make an Order in your favour without you having to attend Court for the amount claimed and tell the business or person that they must pay you within a specific period of time. If the business or person does reply to your Claim it has a few options. (a) The person or business can admit the Claim and pay you immediately; (b) They can make the payment conditional (for example on you returning some faulty goods); (c) They can ask for the payment to be made in instalments; (d) They can dispute the Claim or counterclaim (a claim against you).

If you are not satisfied with the decision of the Small Claims Court, you can appeal this to the Circuit Court. At this stage, you may need to seek legal advice. You must submit your Appeal Application within fourteen days of the Court Hearing. Question – I bought a lawnmower when I was on holiday in the UK over the summer but it has not worked since I brought it home. I have been trying to engage with the company from whom I bought it by telephone and letter but they have ignored all communications to date. It cost £750.00Stg and I feel very hard done by. I can’t afford to go to a solicitor and wonder if I could pursue the matter otherwise. Answer – You will be pleased to know that consumers in Ireland can now make claims against businesses in other EU Countries through the small claims procedure. Please read the question above to know what you must do. For claims outside Ireland, you can claim up to €5,000.00 against products and services provided in other EU States (except Denmark) through your local District Court, even if the item was purchased in another EU country. For further information on this contact the European Consumer Centre in Dublin. However, the procedure remains exactly the same as outlined in our previous question but, you must know the correct title of the company from whom you purchased the product to ensure that your claim is directed correctly to the right business. We wish you the best of luck.

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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VICTIMS’ GROUP AND RIGHTS CAMPAIGNERS WELCOME VICTIMS OF CRIME ACT The Victims’ Rights Alliance (VRA) have broadly welcomed the commencement of the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Act 2017. The Irish

Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL), The Bar of Ireland and The Law Society of Ireland will provide training for those who will implement the legislation.

Maria McDonald, BL, a founding member of the VRA, commented: ‘This is a landmark day for victims of crime in Ireland. For the first time, they are legally

entitled to the right to information, support and protection. All criminal justice agencies engaging with victims of crime must ensure that victims get access to their rights or they risk being brought to court’. The new legislation permits all victims of crime to provide a victim impact statement where previously only victims of the most serious crimes were permitted to do so. The Act also places an obligation on the Gardaí, the Garda Ombudsman, the DPP, the Courts Service and the Irish Prison Service to ensure that any communication with a victim is in simple language and that it takes account of any disability a victim may have. It states that victims of a crime must be provided with information on first contact with the Gardaí, and on any significant developments on their case. However, Ms McDonald has warned that “While this legislation is very welcome, significant work is required to ensure that victims can easily access, and

Grace Hill, Co-ordinator

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understand their full rights and entitlements under the Act. She continued, saying, ‘Further, while the Act provides for a victim to be accompanied by a person of their choice when making a statement to Gardai, including a legal representative, this is not covered by legal aid meaning some of the most vulnerable cohorts of society may not be able to access legal support. We are calling on the government to extend the legal aid scheme to victims of crime so that they can access their right to be accompanied under the EU Victims Directive and the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Act 2017’. Meanwhile, the ICCL, which is a member of the VRA, is collaborating with The Bar of Ireland and the Law Society, to launch a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) for all those who will implement this legislation. Liam Herrick, director of the ICCL, said, ‘This course will provide participants with an understanding

of the rights afforded to victims of crime under the EU Victims’ Directive and the new Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Act 2017. It will discuss the specific needs and best practice approaches to dealing with vulnerable victims and looking at case studies from overseas jurisdictions.’ Criminal Barrister and Vice Chair, Council of The Bar of Ireland Mary Rose Gearty SC said “The Bar of Ireland is one of a number of professional and State bodies involved in meeting and reassuring victims of crime as they come into contact with the court process. We hope that this online course will help lawyers to implement the new measures comprehensively and confidently as they continue to carry out this important work”. Minister of State for Equality, Immigration and Integration, David Stanton, will formally launch the course at a lunchtime event at The Bar of Ireland. The training begins online and is co-funded by the European Commission.

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CELEBRATING WINNERS OF CELEBRATION, SOCIAL INCLUSION THROUGH THE PERFORMING ARTS

BREAD SHOULD BE FORTIFIED WITH FOLIC ACID Bread should be fortified with folic acid to ensure the population gets enough folate, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Romanian Singing Group

Liam Wilson-Smyth

Madelyn McDonagh

Realtai Damhsa Celebration is a spectacular event that showcases all talent and creativity in the South Dublin County. This year’s event took place in the Civic Theatre, Tallaght on Sunday the 26 November as part of Social Inclusion Week 2017. There were a variety of acts on the night that included hip hop dancing, magicians, individual singers and lots more. MC for the night was well known magician Colm Dawson.

Chair of the Joint Committee on the 8th Amendment, Senator Catherine Noone, said that during last week’s meeting medical experts expressed the view that there would be no negative effects on the population from such an initiative. Senator Noone said: “Speaking at the Committee, Dr. Peter McKenna, Clinical Director of the National Women and Infants’ Health Programme, highlighted in the fact that the current expectation of people taking folate tablets daily was unrealistic. “Each year in Ireland, 100 babies are born with a Neural Tube Defect (NTDs). “These conditions have life changing effects, such as Spina-Bifida. However, 70% of these situations are preventable, if pregnant women receive enough folate during pregnancy. “By ensuring that producers add folic acid to flour, even below half of the recommended amount, we can reduce the rate of NTDs in Ireland by 30%. “Mandatory fortification of wheat-flour has received the backing of the WHO and has been recommended in Ireland by numerous reports. Moreover, many countries have already adopted this measure, for example the USA and Canada, both of which have seen a drop in the number of NTDs. “By availing of this simple measure, we can make a profound improvement to the lives of hundreds of children in future generations”.

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EXPERT ISSUES SAFETY WARNING OVER UNSUITABLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Ireland’s Christmas decorators can risk serious injury through a combination of unsuitable outdoor lighting and safety shortcuts, an expert has claimed. Much of what is sold as outdoor lighting is not suitable for the Irish climate and represents a possible danger to consumers, according to the man known

as Mr Christmas Lighting. Gabriel Byrne founded Fantasy Lights over 30 years ago, and has been responsible for lighting up thousands of houses – and many of our most popular streets – throughout Ireland since then. “Many of the lights being sold in Ireland are marked for both indoor and outdoor use – which leads people to

think that they are safe for both,” said Gabriel. “However, not only are these lights and decorations usually unsuitable for our climate, in many cases they represent a real danger to the user if the transformer is plugged in out of doors. “In the Irish climate, plastic cables tend to pull apart very easily, creating dangerous situations

especially when lights are at ground level or wrapped around trees, within reach of children or pets. “If you are using outdoor lighting, then you must use specific low-voltage outdoor transformers, which are weatherproof, IPrated, hardwired, and use rubberised cables. “The rule of thumb for outdoor lighting is if there

are pins on the plugs, keep them indoors. “I have seen instances of people putting transformers and extension cables in plastic bags to shield them from the elements – which is extremely dangerous when dealing with what is high-voltage electricity in a damp environment. “People might notice that when they go to put lights back up after one year’s use that they are all brown and may not work. “That is simply due to poor quality and the product not being suitable for our inclement weather.” Fantasy Lights have launched a large range of low voltage outdoor safety lighting on to the market this season, so that customers can cut down drastically on their electricity bills, and ensure that their lighting systems are safe.

“I would always suggest that outdoor Christmas lights users get a good quality outdoor twin socket installed in the off-season, that will handle all of their lighting needs in a safe and protected manner. “You must ensure that any electrical fittings you are using comply with the strict electrical standards designed to protect us. “A lot of electrical issues arise when people connect different lighting sets together, and we would ask householders to make sure that your lights are from the same manufacturer and are of the same quality and standard. “While we use weatherproof connections on all of our joints, I shudder sometimes when I see some of the chances people take with electricity when it comes close to the festive season.”

Christmas lighting expert Gabriel Byrne of Fantasy Lights, who has warned consumers to ensure that safety comes first when it comes to Christmas decorations. (Picture Conor McCabe Photography)

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CHILDREN’S RIGHTS STREET ART ON DISPLAY IN DUBLIN

The Ombudsman for Children’s Office (OCO) has teamed up with A Playful City and some of Ireland’s leading artists to produce striking street art based on children’s rights which, for the next month, can be seen at various locations around Dublin. Commenting on the project Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon said: “We are delighted to support a Playful City in highlighting children’s rights through street art and specifically to raise awareness of the right to play, the right to express yourself and the right to develop your talents. “This year marks the 25th anniversary of Ireland’s ratification of the UN Convention on the rights of the Child. To mark the year, the OCO is highlighting children’s rights in Ireland in new and innovative ways. “I would encourage everyone around Dublin over the next few weeks to take the time to enjoy these thought provoking

and important pieces highlighting children’s rights in Ireland today. Spare a moment to take in DUDA’s crayon piece at Spencer Dock or Michelle’s Considine’s Girl and Bear at the Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre. Stop a minute to consider ‘From… To…’ a poem written and donated by Stephen James Smith and exhibited alongside Shane Sutton’s artwork on Benburb St or visit the Science Gallery’s MakeShops interactive art pieces designed by Emily Robyn Archer, Sharon Greene, Millie Egan and Claire Faithorn. Neasa Ni Bhriain Co-founder of A Playful City continued: “Play in all forms is intrinsic to the development of every child in today’s world. No matter their socio-economic and environmental conditions, children must be afforded the opportunity to express themselves and learn through this medium. The realm of play is not just a

superficial activity, but has important health and wellbeing benefits. Therefore, it must be championed at all levels within our society”. Niall concluded: “In September the Ombudsman for Children’s Office launched a national programme marking the 25th Anniversary of Ireland’s ratification of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child. Throughout the year we are re-visiting the promise we made, we are asking Irish society to become more aware of the UNCRC and to make rights real for children and young people today. “We are inviting people all over the country to get involved. Visit www. oco.ie to find out about our national animation competition or get involved with Act Your Rights, an opportunity to perform on the Abbey Stage. We also have new resources for teachers and educators who want to explore rights in a classroom setting.

THE VOLUNTEER IRELAND AWARDS WINNER IN ANIMALS AND ENVIRONMENT CATEGORY

The Volunteer Ireland Awards is an awards programme that makes a difference. It aims to shine a light on the remarkable work of volunteers around the country by celebrating them on a national level. The Volunteer Ireland Awards are a unique opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to ordinary people doing extraordinary work across the country. President Michael D. Higgins is Patron of the Awards. The 2017 Volunteer Ireland Awards took place on 1st December 2017. Each year, people from all over Ireland are encouraged to nominate someone they know who gives their time and energy voluntarily. South Dublin County Council Housing Social and Community Development Department nominated Suzanne O’Neill for her outstanding work in the Community Garden for the Unemployed in Sean Walsh Park, Tallaght. She was the winner in her category.

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LATEST THIRD LEVEL ACCESS FIGURES SHOW THE DEPTH OF THE SOCIAL DIVIDE IN THE IRISH EDUCATION SYSTEM, SAYS SVP

UNITE MEMBERS PROTEST ONGOING FAILURE TO PAY LABOUR COURT RECOMMENDATION

STARK SOCIAL DIVISIONS REQUIRE INVESTMENTS AT ALL LEVELS OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) says the latest figures bring to the fore the level of inequality in our education system,as students in schools in the most affluent areas are up to five times more likely to go to third-level than those in the poorest areas. “At third level, costs continue to a be a major barrier for low income and disadvantaged

students. The increase in the student contribution and cuts and changes to the maintenance grant have put college further out of reach for many students”, says Dr. Tricia Keilthy, SVP Head of Social Justice and Policy. “These stark social divisions require investments at all levels of the education system. This includes increasing investment in early years services,

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tackling school costs which disproportionately impact low income children, providing supports for disadvantaged students located outside of DEIS schools, and adequately funding and expanding School Completion and Access programmes” she continued. The Society which works closely with thousands of students, at all ages and stages, to support their access to education. Its members see at first-hand the multiple barriers children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds face from pre-school right up to college. Without the support of SVP many students would not be able to take up a place at college. Tricia Keilthy said,“There

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were some positive initiatives announced by the Department of Education last August that will provide much needed bursaries to a small number of disadvantaged and nontraditional students. But we were disappointed that Budget 2018 failed to reverse the cuts and changes to the SUSI grant. “We know teachers in disadvantaged areas work tirelessly to provide as much opportunities and supports as possible on extremely limited means. Ultimately, without adequate funding, these inequalities will persist. “A child’s postcode shouldn’t determine their educational success and opportunities. SVP strongly believe that education is a right, not a privilege.”

Members of trade union Unite made redundant by AMT-Sybex, a subsidiary of outsourcing giant Capita, were joined by supporters to protest against the company’s refusal to implement enhanced redundancy terms recommended by the Labour Court in September. Speaking at the protest outside AMT-Sybex’ offices in Sandyford, Unite Regional Officer Bernard Daly said that the difference between paying statutory redundancy and paying the enhanced redundancy terms recommended by the Labour Court would cost Capita well below €500,000 at a time when the company holds departmental contracts worth nearly €140 million

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Miriam O’Shea Slimming World 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 Educate Together School (Opposite Saggart LUAS stop) Saggart, Co. Dublin Times: Wednesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 1402870 Pauline Slimming World Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel, 1st Floor, Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Thursday Mornings: 9:30am & 11:30am. Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 7704751 Sharon Daly Slimming World Brookfield Scoil Aoife (Opposite LIDL) Fortunestown Lane, 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 & 11:30am Mobile: 085 1484669 Noeleen Herbage Slimming Word Templeogue St. Marys Rugby Club Templeville Road, Templeogue, Dublin 6W. Times: Wednesdays 9:30am, 11:30am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Thursday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 085 749 9296

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CHURCH OF CHRIST Knocklyon

Seeking a return to Christ and New Testament Christianity TIMES OF SERVICE

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The Gospel of John “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God”. The beginning takes us back to when “God created the heavens and the earth”. It is the beginning of time, space and matter; the starting point of all created life both in the heavens and on earth. Let me draw your attention to the fact that the Holy Spirit did not say, “From the beginning was the Word”. That is significant because “In the beginning” suggests the “Word” existed before everything was created, whereas, “From the beginning” would lead one to believe that the “Word” came into being at the time of creation. Jesus is the Word and He confirms His preexistence, “Now Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was”. As you can see, the “Word” coexisted with the Father in Eternity before the beginning of time, space and matter, “And the Word was with God, and the Word was God”. So the first great revelation about the Word in the Gospel of John is that He is from eternity, that He was with God and was God. But some seek to rob this verse of its power by translating it, “And the word was a god.” They claim this translation is justified on the grounds that the definite article is not used before the word “God,” so it must be translated “a god” not “God.” If the absence of the definite article before the word “God” demands an “a god” translation, then why in the New World Translation are verses 6, 12 and 18 of chapter one translated “God,” when the definite article is not used before the word “God”? Should they not also be translated “a god” to be consistent with their own rule! But the New

World translator’s correctly translated verses 6, 12 and 18 as “God,” even though there is no definite article before the word God. By so doing, they have demonstrated that Greek grammar does not demand an “a god” translation when the definite article is missing! In truth it is their theological preconception that required an “a god” translation. An awkward by-product of their “a god” translation, is there are two Gods—“God” and “a god.” But the Scriptures categorically affirm there is one God, “Know therefore today, and take it to your heart, that the LORD, He is God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other. Does John 1:1 overturn all the other Scriptures that teach there is one God? No, the Bible consistently states there is but one God. Scripture would contradict Scripture if we were to affirm anything else, so to deduct from John 1:1 that there are two Gods—“God” and “a god” is to make Scripture contradiction Scripture. According to John, the Word shared the one Eternal, Divine Life with the Father. The Bible reveals God as One Deity or One Essence, shared by the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. It is vitally important to maintain the indivisible Essence of the One True God and it is equally important for us not to confound the Persons within the Godhead. Interestingly, John could have written, “And the word was with the Father” but he wrote under inspiration, “And the Word was with God”. Was it because the terminology “And the Word was with God” leaves room for the inclusion of the Holy Spirit and therefore anticipates the revelation of the Trinity?

By Steve Kearney.

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SPEED CAMERAS SUPPORTED BY MAJORITY OF MOTORISTS 7 in 10 motorists state they know of at least one location where they would like to see a speed camera installed. “Improved safety remains the aim with speed cameras, not revenue” – AA advises sceptics Over 70% of motorists support the continued use of speed cameras in Ireland in order to minimise speeding and reduce fatalities, recent research from AA Ireland has found. In response to an AA Car Insurance survey of over 6,000 motorists, 46.97% of those polled stated that they strongly support the widespread use of speed cameras as part of efforts to improve road safety. Meanwhile, a further 31.24% described themselves as somewhat supportive of the use of speed cameras.

The survey also found that a majority of motorists believe speed cameras directly benefit road safety efforts. 74.68% of respondents agreed with the idea that speed cameras played a directly role in improving road safety, with 37.51% strongly agreeing with this message. “For those of us working in the area of road safety it’s certainly great to see that a strongly majority of motorists remain supportive of the use of speed cameras and efforts to reduce incidents on Irish roads,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “While there remains a degree of scepticism that the primary point of speed cameras is to generate revenue for the government of private companies involved this

simply isn’t true.” “The costs to government and companies involved in the deployment of speed cameras is significantly higher than the revenue generate from fines, so if it was designed to be a money-making system it’s a particularly bad one. This technology exists to help improve road safety and it’s clear that a strong majority of motorists can see the benefits of using speed cameras. Despite the support for speed cameras, the AA research also identified some concern on behalf of motorists over the underutilisation of these cameras in Ireland. When presented with the prompt “I am personally aware of at least one location where I would recommend that a speed

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camera be installed,” over a third (34.99%) of motorists stated that they agreed completely. In additional a further quarter of those surveyed (24.57%) partially agreed with this message. “Road safety needs to be a priority all year round, but it’s true that the next few months represent a particularly dangerous time on the roads. While it’s ultimately the responsibility of the motorists to selfpolice when it comes to their speed, speed cameras help to reinforce this behaviour so having more cameras visible on our roads would be welcome,” Faughnan added. “Whether there is a speed camera present or not on any given road, it’s important that motorists not only stick to the limit but adjust their driving accordingly when either road or weather conditions require you to do so.”

MOTORISTS WARNED TO DRIVE WITH CARE AMID SNOW WARNINGS

Motorists are being warned to exercise additional caution when driving in the coming days, as Met Eireann has forecast a drop in temperatures with a risk of sleet, hail and snow for the latter half of this week. AA Roadwatch, the traffic monitoring service, is also warning motorists to expect delays and allow additional journey time if conditions take a turn for the worst. “Any sudden change in weather conditions, be it snow, ice or heavy rainfall can have a serious impact on traffic across affected areas. Motorists will need to slow down for their own safety, resulting in longer journey times, but you will also see more cars on the roads in affected areas,” Elaine O’Sullivan, Acting Editor of AA Roadwatch stated. “When we see weather conditions worsen we also tend to see people who would normally cycle, walk or use public transport opt to use a car if they have access to one. As a result, traffic levels normally worsen on the major routes in any affected areas.” Motorists are also being warned that the impact that falling snowfall or sleet can have on visibility may make it more difficult to see vulnerable road users. As a result, additional caution on routes used by cyclists and pedestrians will be needed. “When sleet or snow is falling and building up on your windscreen it can be quite difficult to see vulnerable road users, such as cyclists or pedestrians, so it’s important that motorists adapt their driving accordingly,” Elaine added. “By slowing down, allowing extra overtaking room where possible and taking extra care motorists can do their part to keep the roads safe even in the worst conditions.” The AA is also preparing for a spike in breakdowns as a result of the change in conditions, with motorists being advised that colder temperatures can result in older or weaker batteries becoming defective. Drivers who haven’t already done so are encouraged to give their car a quick once-over to ensure the vehicle is fully winterready.

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NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS

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

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own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. A.McC MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.B.C. Novena to the Holy Spirit. You who solve all problems, who lights all roads so that I can obtain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and to forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life, you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and to confirm that I never want to be separated from you even and in spite of all material

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illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. (mention favors) This prayer must be said for 3 consecutive days and published immediately After 3 days the favor requested will be granted even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be publised immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. M.M.

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

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fail. M.McC.

As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the years. Going forward, we are delighted to support Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice. LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice provides palliative care to children with life-limiting conditions and their families, from the point of diagnosis to end of life, and throughout bereavement.Our holistic approach ensures we support the whole family through a unique care plan that may include: symptom management; planned short hospice stays (respite); unplanned hospice stays (emergency care); end of life care; music & play therapy; psychological & bereavement support; Social Work and Chaplaincy. All care is provided free to families. Care can be availed of in the hospice, at hospital, in the community, or in the family home, depending on the child and family’s preference. It costs €5.2million to keep LauraLynn’s Children’s Hospice open, €3.5million of which must be generated

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each year through fundraised income. Since opening in 2011, LauraLynn has cared for more than 325 children and their families and provided more than 265,000 hours of short stay care provided to children in LauraLynn Hospice. For further information please visit lauralynn.ie. If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque made out to Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to: NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. If you require any further information please call 01 4519000 or email info@ newsgroup.ie.

Close to 700 children need the specialised care provided by LauraLynn

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