Rathcoole and Saggart News 17.12.18 by Newsgroup

17th December 2018

LIVE REGISTER DROPS AGAIN IN DUBLIN Cllr. Emer Higgins has said that the Live Register has dropped again locally here in Dublin thanks to continued job creation.

Higgins said: “The latest CSO report shows that in Dublin the number of people on the Live Register has dropped again with the numbers of people signing on down by 16% since the same time last year. In Clondalkin the decline is 22% and in Tallaght it’s 16%. Overall, the Live Register has decreased by 55% since Fine Gael launched its Action

Plan for Jobs in 2012. That means 2,000 less people on the live register in South County Dublin today versus one year ago,” said Cllr. Emer Higgins.

“The overall unemployment rate for the country stands at 5.3%, down from 15.1% in early 2012 when Fine Gael launched its Action Plan for Jobs. Even more encouragingly, we are still seeing declines in long-term unemployment across the country. We need to continue to support businesses to grow, entrepreneurs to innovate and those on

the live register seeking work support in getting those opportunities.

“There are now 2,273,200 people employed; the highest level ever. Employment growth has now been recorded in the last 25 consecutive quarters. One of the impacts of a renewed economy is an increase of cars on our roads and I’ll continue to campaign for infrastructure investment in South Dublin,” continued Higgins. “Fine Gael in Government has put the right policies in place

to allow our economy and society to grow in a way that builds our resilience and ensures we are well positioned for what lies ahead. We are on track to achieve the Government’s target of creating an additional 200,000 jobs by 2020. “As my colleague the Minister for Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, has highlighted, our focus now is not just on job creation alone but also on the sustainability and productivity of jobs into the future. The Government’s Future Jobs Programme 2019 brings a new strategic approach to sustainable economic growth and job creation as we approach full-employment,” concluded Higgins.

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CRC DISABILITY AWARENESS DAY RIBBON LAUNCH IN FIRHOUSE

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 Design & Editorial: John Russell john@newsgroup.ie Administration: Sarah Brooks Office Manager admin@newsgroup.ie

December 3rd marked the UN’s ‘International Day of Persons with Disabilities’, and although the Irish Government had signed the UN Convention on the Rights

of Persons with Disabilities in 2007, it was not ratified until this year following protests outside the Dáil. Some of the people who

protested also go to the Central Remedial Clinic’s centre in Firhouse, and those same people designed a pin-on ribbon to celebrate the day, while also raising funds for the CRC - very appropriate as the theme for this year’s Day is Empowerment, Inclusiveness and Equality. This new ribbon was developed by a group of artists within the centre, and was formally launched in the Firhouse Centre by Finian McGrath - Minister of State for Disability Issues. The occasion was attended by the CEO of the CRC Stephanie Manahan, Breda Gavagan centre manager and staff, clients, family members, carers and local business people, all

of whom have been very supportive of the Firhouse CRC centre. In his opening speech, Minister McGrath pointed out that this was the first time that Ireland had marked International Day of Persons with Disabilities, even though it has been celebrated around the world since 1992. In honour of the occasion, landmark buildings in Dublin will be lit up in purple, and he expressed the hope that the Purple Lights event would grow to become as well-known as St Patrick’s Day, or get as much publicity as the Black Friday sales. His speech was well-received by all those present.

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LEFT OUT IN THE COLD WITHOUT HSE WINTER PLAN

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor has said that despite the fact staff in Tallaght University Hospital have been asking for a HSE Winter Plan to be put in place in advance of the season, the plan has only just been announced. O’Connor quizzed the Chief Executive earlier this month on the contingencies in place to deal with the winter time challenges at the hospital. He said, “While I welcome the fact that the HSE has finally devised a

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winter plan for hospitals such as Tallaght to manage over the next while, this strategy should have been published months ago. “The winter has already set in and the demand it imposes on our hospital services is already being felt across the health sector. Surely a well-integrated strategy designed to improve the provision of services for staff and patients during a demanding time should have been put in place before these challenges

were due to arise. “Staff in Tallaght work tirelessly to provide care in challenging circumstances each winter period, just as they do every other month of the year. They requested this plan earlier this year but have had to wait until the second week of December to see any details due to the disorganisation and mismanagement within our health service. “Overcrowding in Tallaght is already an issue with

people on trolleys daily. It’s difficult then to consider what meaningful impact this winter plan could have on improving efficiency at this late stage. As the Chief Executive has informed me, the hospital will be a focus site this winter - in light of this I urge the HSE to deliver

the supportive initiatives that will be required including additional ED staff.

Seán Crowe T.D. has spoken out in support of his party’s Microgeneration Support Scheme Bill that will be debated in the Dáil recently. The TD said that the bill allows people to be paid for excess electricity to the grid from small scale energy sources, and helps small scale energy grow across the state, adding to the indigenous energy we produce.

for small scale renewable electricity feeding the mains grid from small scale renewable energy, such as from roof top solar panels. “This state has climate change obligations in terms of emissions reductions which will not be met, and Irish households produce 60% more emissions than the EU average.

“If the HSE had engaged in long-term, advanced planning then routine medical help could still be offered, even during busy

periods. If those providing treatment and care had been properly listened to, this year could have been different but instead a strategy aimed at managing the winter demand won health services was published in the middle of the winter,” he concluded.

MICROGENERATION BILL WILL REDUCE HOUSEHOLD ENERGY COSTS

Deputy Seán Crowe said: “This bill will reduce household energy costs and it broadens the renewable energy portfolio in the state. It provides a payment to householders

“This will help aid the growth of an alternative renewable energy source to fossil fuels. “The objective of the bill was a recommendation of the citizen’s assembly, and the bill is supported by Friends of the Earth,

Stop Climate Chaos, An Tasice and Trócaire. “The government should accept this bill in the Dáil and allow households benefit and contribute to the drive to grow renewable energy in the state.”

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LUCAN HARRIERS 40TH ANNIVERSARY CHANGES TO MEDICAL CARD PROCESS FOR THOSE WITH A DISABILITY John Curran T.D. has said that introducing changes to the medical card assessment process for those with a disability has the potential to drastically improve the quality of life of many. It was confirmed recently that those in receipt of Disability Allowance will now have a greater earning and employment capacity while retaining their medical card. The decision to disregard the medical card earnings of persons in receipt of Disability Allowance will be effective from December 1st 2018

Local Councillors Vicki Casserly and Emer Higgins have congratulated Lucan Harriers on their 40th anniversary celebrations and the long-awaiting activity at the running track in Lucan. Casserly, a proud member of the running club was joined by her colleagues Cllr. Emer Higgins and Deputy Frances Fitzgerald at the Lucan Harriers 40th Year Celebrations in the Spa Hotel. “Lucan Harriers has been a part of the community for as long as I can remember and the team have been great friends to me as I set out on my own running ambition this year. It’s great to see activity at the

track at last and I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to ensure this project is completed as soon as possible,” said Cllr. Vicki Casserly. “I was delighted to join Lucan Harriers for their 40th year celebrations in the Spa Hotel. It was great to see so many people there supporting the club which has created so many marathon runners and encouraged people to progress from the couch to 5k. I wish the Club the very best in the years ahead and hope that more athletes will come through their ranks as a result of the track which is at long last being developed,” said Cllr. Emer Higgins.

Deputy Curran commented, “As those with a disability attempt to take fundamental steps forward in their lives, they are often faced with a disjointed system. How State agencies engage and support our citizens living with a disability requires root and branch reform particularly to remove the great number of barriers to employment which currently exist. “Without a medical card, a person with a disability is forced

to fund any necessary aids by themselves. These often high costs are not factored into the HSE’s online means test for medical card applications. The same means test also fails to take into account the number of hospital and doctor visits that a person with a disability will undoubtedly need throughout the year.

taking up work. “As chair of the three Joint Oireachtas Committees responsible for reviewing the supports available to people with a disability to effectively transitioning from education or training onto employment, I am optimistic that this is a meaningful albeit minor step in the right direction.

“Being forced to choose between keeping a medical card and entering employment as desired is an impossible choice but that’s been the reality to date. Losing a medical card and/or travel pass has been a massive disincentive to

“A wide range of policy and practice across several Government Departments and State agencies are still in need of review in order to ensure inclusiveness and equality in the work place for those with disabilities,” concluded Deputy Curran.

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CALL FOR ACTION ON TEMPLEOGUE POST OFFICE

Cllr Charlie O’Connor has called on An Post management to immediately progress plans for the opening of a Post Office in Templeogue. According to Charlie O’Connor, he is

receiving calls from the Templeogue area about the closure of the Post Office in Templeogue village and he has raised the matter with the Chief Executive of An Post stressing the concern

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor PC Living in Tallaght ...Working for Tallaght

Wishing all my Constituents A Very Happy Christmas & A Peaceful New Year email charlie.oconnorff@gmail.com mobile 087 2982079 THE FIANNA FAIL TEAM IN DUBLIN SOUTH WEST

John Lahart TD, Councillors Paul Foley, Emma Murphy & Charlie O’Connor

of the local community. He has been told by An Post that “the vacant contract at Templeogue was advertised in August with a closing date on the 17th of the month. Just one application was forthcoming and the

Selection Board deemed the business proposal to be unsuitable as the premises on offer was too far removed from Templeogue Village.” The company also told Charlie O’Connor that “it is the view of

An Post that finding a suitable application for the Templeogue contract will be more easily achieved if the shop which was previously co-located with the Post Office was to resume trading.” Charlie O’Connor

has assured local residents that he will continue to pursue the matter and he believes that everything possible should be done by an Post to have a local post office in Templeogue reopened.

Local campaigner and cofounder of An Cosán, Dr Ann Louise Gilligan has been remembered with a new lecture theatre in her memory at DCU. It is the first theatre on campus to be called after a woman leader.

young people, adults, men, women, and yes dogs too! She would often tell the story of herself as a young girl, walking up and down her road to gather any children interested to join

her back at home, where she would set up to teach them whatever might be topical for the day.

wanted to do anything else other than teach. And I had the extraordinary privilege and pleasure of listening to her stories of teaching over the thirty six years of our life-partnership.”

DR ANN LOUISE GILLIGAN REMEMBERED This was her idea of fun! And child’s play! She never

At the opening Dr Katherine Zappone T.D. spouse of the late Ann Louise, was joined by her sister, June Kelly and President of DCU, Brian Mac Craith. The gathering also included many from An Cosán and Dublin South West. Speaking about her late Spouse Minister Zappone recalled “Ann Louise adored to teach. She was at her happiest when she was teaching – children,

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IRELAND RANKED ONE OF THE WORST IN THE WORLD ON CLIMATE CHANGE

Seán Crowe T.D. has described the report from the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) which ranked Ireland last in addressing climate change in the EU and among the worst in the world as a colossal embarrassment and another wake up call to government. Deputy Seán Crowe said: “The report from the CCPI ranked Ireland as one of the worst in the world when it comes to addressing climate change. “This is not only a colossal embarrassment but it is also going to cost the Irish taxpayer in financial terms because we are failing to meet EU emissions and renewable energy targets for 2020. This should act as a wake up call to the government but while they are quick to talk the talk they are to slow to move on steps that will address our carbon use. “The Irish government are quick to sign international agreements and climate conventions but when it

comes to delivery and practical steps to combat climate change they have failed to meet targets or introduce the necessary changes.

“Although we are a small state in global terms, we as an island should lead by example. It is frustrating that we continue to import billions worth of fossil fuels each year while we have a wide variety of renewable energy sources available to use which are lying underdeveloped and unused. “Even basic steps are being overlooked with future development plans not being climate proofed. Simple steps like having a facility for homes who harness excess power being able to transfer the excess to the national grid is an obvious place to start. Sinn Féin introduced a Bill to do this in November and the government must continue to support its passages through all legislative stages. A quicker roll out of retrofit schemes of homes

is another basic step that needs to be developed, encouraged and requires greater state intervention. “Sources such as offshore wind, hydro, biogas and solar need to be developed and will form an important part of our energy mix. Pilot schemes on these sources simply will not cut it at this stage and they need to be mainstreamed.

specify our energy sources going forward. Alongside this we need to see the opportunities we have available to us on this island

in the move to greater renewable energy. “This is in terms of job creation, security of energy supply and improving the national

and global environment around us, but this government simply shows little vision and a lack of ambition.”

HIGHLIGHTING PAY AND CONDITIONS IN THE DEFENCE FORCES

“South Dublin County Council are in the process of introducing a pilot heat transfer system with Amazon, a system that is common around the world but is a first for Ireland. Legislation for the rollout of possible thermal heat has also been promised but has failed to be produced.” Crowe continued: “To address climate change clear action must be taken on a cross departmental basis and the aim for government must be to develop broad sources of renewable energy technologies. “We need to

Following on from the march held on the 19th of September highlighting the pay and conditions in the Defence Forces, pictured is a recent picket at the office of Frances Fitzgerald T.D.

MACARI'S TAKE AWAY

Old Bawn Shopping Centre, Tallaght, Dublin24

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2019 PURE MILE IS NOW OPEN

Pure are looking for all types of groups to take part in the 2019 Pure Mile. The Pure Mile encourages communities and groups living in rural areas to adopt a mile, or miles, of road, and keep this area litter/rubbish free, research information about their local wild flowers, plants, trees, animals, built/cultural/social heritage, history, and the folklore associated with their areas. Special interest groups, walking groups, cycling groups, scout groups, businesses, organisations, can adopt a mile of road, or miles of road, in the Wicklow/Dublin Uplands and help Pure to Clean Up The Uplands. Pure provide all groups with bags, gloves, litter pickers and high-vis vests, and they also remove any of the rubbish collected by the groups. Ian Davis, Manager of Pure, stated; ‘The Pure Mile has been a great

success and all credit goes to the numerous groups, who in 2018 collectively improved and enhanced over 220 miles of areas and removed tonnes of illegal dumping and litter from the Wicklow/Dublin Uplands. It was great to see groups cleaning up Piperstown Road, Military Road, Kilakee Road, Bohernabreena, and various other areas. These groups make a huge difference to South Dublin Upland Environment and it would be great to see more people getting involved in the 2019 Pure Mile.’

Groups can focus on all aspects of the Pure Mile, or just one aspect, such as, litter picks, or clean-ups of their areas. All groups who enter the Pure Mile are invited to the Pure Mile Awards Night, and all receive a Certificate of Participation, a selection of Native Irish Trees, and all groups feature in the Pure Mile Calendar. You can apply on line at www. pureproject.ie or you can request a

Pure Mile Information Booklet and Application From by emailing Pure at info@pureproject.ie, or phone Pure on 0404 45547, or write to, Pure, Wicklow Mountains National Park, Kilafin, Laragh, Bray, Co. Wicklow, A98 K286.

To enter, simply put your name and contact details on an application form and the Pure 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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THOSE ON METHADONE TREATMENT NEED CARE PLANS

John Curran TD has said that without patient centered care plans in place those in receipt of Opioid Substitution Treatment in Ireland are not adequately supported to effectively rehabilitate or recover

from drug addiction. The latest figures obtained by the Deputy indicate that as of April 2018 there were 10,282 people in receipt of methadone treatment in Ireland. The Health Service Executive also confirmed

that close to 40% of those on Opioid Substitution Treatment have been on Methadone for 10 years or more. A report published yesterday by Trinity College Dublin found that majority

COMMUNITY ENDEAVOR AWARDS 2018

of those on long term methadone treatment do not have access to the necessary economic, social or personal resources to bolster and sustain the recovery process.

Deputy Curran commented, “Methadone might very well be thought of as a less dangerous alternative and common treatment

for heroin addiction but it must also be recognised that it is itself a synthetic opioid. “The National Drugs Strategy aims to minimise the harm caused by the use and misuse of substances but also to promote rehabilitation and recovery – it seems at odds then to neglect the fact that methadone is not a suitable long term bridge to sobriety.

“The prolonged supply of methadone without an integrated care plan and the absence of any continuity of care for these patients raise serious ethical questions that should be considered. Offering a substitute treatment programme with no care plan means former heroin users are left without a pathway to effective rehabilitation.”

Fine Gael banner. Speaking at the convention Baby reiterated is commitment to meeting as many people in communities’ thoughtout the ward. Teresa is married with 3 children living in Kingswood. She is involved locally in Community Groups as well as a self-employed business owner with experience working on a Community Employment Scheme in the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght. As a first time candidate Teresa Duffy stated “I am working hard

on local issues that need addressing and want to bring a strong local voice to South Dublin County Council.”

LOCAL ELECTION CANDIDATES FOR TALLAGHT

Fine Gael recently selected two Local Election candidates to run in Tallaght. Baby Pereppadan will contest the election in Tallaght South and Teresa Duffy will contest in Tallaght Central. Fine Gael held their selection conventions on 3rd December in the Old Mill.

Pictured at the Council’s The Community Endeavor Awards in the Red Cow Moran Hotel were Councillor Charlie O’Connor with Freddie O’Toole, Folouke Odalusa and Brian Kelly, representing Fettercairn Community & Youth Centre, winners of the Community Facility of the Year.

Baby is a social worker, living in Tallaght with his wife and two children. He ran in the local elections in 2009 as an Independent and is now running under a

Speaking at the selection convention, local Fine Gael T.D for Dublin South West Colm Brophy said, “It is great to have such impressive candidates running in Tallaght and I am excited for the future of our area. With Baby and Teresa I am hopeful that Fine Gael will win two seats in the 2019 Local Elections.”

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TALLAGHT TO RECEIVE €3 MILLION FOR URBAN REGENERATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Urban regeneration and development projects in Tallaght Town Centre are set to receive €3,000,000.00 in funding projects, Fine Gael Cllr Brian Lawlor has said. The submitted proposal relates to the provision of a number of key infrastructure, services, civic, residential and amenity projects in Tallaght town centre which upon delivery will act as a catalyst for the wider and long-term growth of Tallaght, as a living town and the thriving heart of South Dublin County. Cllr Brian Lawlor said: “I am delighted that Tallaght Town Centre (Civic Plaza/ Link Roads) has been announced among the first funding allocations under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.

“I want to thank everyone involved in the successful application. This project will improve Tallaght and enhance the quality of life for the entire area.“This fund will run until 2027, with a second call for proposals in 2019, so it is important to stress that there will be further opportunity to reapply for future funding calls. “Project Ireland 2040 demonstrates a new approach to planning and development in Ireland, recognising that we cannot continue with a ‘business as usual’ approach,” said Cllr Brian Lawlor. “This Fine Gael led Government is committed to continuing to improve the standard of life for all with a viable plan for the future.

REPAIR AND LEASING SCHEME HAS NOT DELIVERED ONE HOME

John Curran T.D. has highlighted the fact that not one home has been delivered and tenanted in Dublin through the Repair and Leasing Scheme (RLS) that was rolled out in February 2017. Speaking after receiving a Parliamentary Question on the issue recently, Deputy Curran said; “The RLS is yet another failed attempt by the Government to deliver the level of new social housing homes it had promised much like many of the schemes under the Rebuilding Ireland programme.

“The Repair and Leasing Scheme (RLS) was developed to assist private property owners and local authorities or Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to harness the accommodation potential that exists in certain vacant dwellings across Ireland. “The RLS has not delivered the level of new social housing homes envisaged. Figures released to me show that only 25 applications were made in the four local authorities in Dublin with only 5 lease agreements signed. In my own area of South Dublin County Council not one application has been made in 2018 under the scheme and not one property in Dublin

is operational under the Scheme. “In the most recent reply to my Parliamentary Question the Minister for Housing indicated that figures up to Q2 in 2018 show that 217 applications have been received nationally with 60 lease agreements but only 22 properties are operational through the Repair and Lease scheme across the country. It is shocking to think that in the Capital City where there is an estimated 30,000 vacant properties that not one has been turned into a suitable home to house the many people who are waiting to be housed. In Dublin the scheme has simply failed to address the housing and homelessness crisis, said Deputy Curran. “The Government attempted to address a number of problems with the scheme and changes were made in an attempt to make the scheme more attractive to property owners. However that was in February 2018 - nine months ago now. I sincerely hope that the entire scheme is re-examined particularly with the issues effecting property owners in Dublin. To date the scheme has failed miserably to deliver,” concluded Deputy Curran.

The plan was announced earlier this year and is now being implemented. In Tallaght Town Centre will benefit immensely because of that and today provides further tangible proof,” Cllr Brian Lawlor said.

An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar said: “The urban fund is aimed at all of our cities and towns with a population of more than 10,000. It’s an investment of €2bn over the next 10 years aimed at unlocking the potential undeveloped sites in our

towns and cities. “We want them to have vibrant centres and to grow up rather than out. “We want smart, compact, urban growth.

“We want to make sure we have more people living in our city centres and close to the centre of large towns, making it easier to walk to work, cutting commuting times and distances, making better use of existing infrastructure while also benefitting the environment.”

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Kip McGraths 10 Educational Christmas toys 2018 We all know that Christmas is the time of giving and some toys give more than others. The gifts mentioned below have educational and problem solving benefits that encourage your child’s learning whilst having fun with their new toys. Puzzles A child’s problem solving skills are put to the test when it comes to puzzles. You will see improvements in their fine motor development, hand and eye coordination and self esteem with every successful completion. Books Stimulate your child’s imagination and increase their knowledge with books. It is well documented children who are read to everyday experience benefits to their vocabulary, focus, memory, concentration and literacy. Card games (eg Snap) Card games help children develop fine motor skills, increased social interaction and challenge children with increasingly complex strategies and levels of difficulty. Board games (eg Snakes and Ladders) Socially and mathematically board games are a winner. With number and shape recognition, grouping, and counting, letter recognition and reading as well as teaching patience, managing frustration and fair play. Wooden blocks We’ve all had them and with good reason. Timeless and indestructible (almost) wooden blocks encourage creativity and imagination , promote hand eye coordination and will grow with your child. Science kits Learning by experiment is essential for children and Science kits provide hands-on entertainment. Science kits can explain, in ways that kids will understand, a lot of the technology, gadgets and machinery that exists in modern life. Construction set (eg Lego) Aside from being ridiculously fun, Lego and more generally construction toys have additional development benefits for your child from problem solving to teaching kids to think three dimensionally and boosting motor development. Painting set From stress relief to fun and self esteem, children who learn to paint are learning to think with an open mind . The benefits extend to self expression and critical thinking and making their own decisions about what to paint and what colours to use. Lacing beads There are many benefits to lacing beads including Fine Motor Skills , Visual Perceptual Skills and Cognitive Skills. Magnetic letters and numbers From the sensory stimulation, to sorting , word construction and teaching the alphabet (not to mention amusing kids while you are cooking in the kitchen) Magnetic letters are a great stocking filler that will entertain and educate.

GREATER RESOURCES ARE NEEDED TO SUPPORT GARDAÍ NATIONWIDE

Fianna Fáil’s newly appointed Spokesperson on National Drugs Strategy and Urban Affairs, John Curran TD has said that recent Garda seizure of close to €4 million euro worth of illicit drugs indicates that the sale and supply of narcotics in Ireland shows no sign of slowing down. Recently four separate Garda operations across Dublin and Limerick uncovered significant amounts of illegally imported drugs and a number of arrests were made.

The Dublin Mid-West TD commented, “Recent operations, led by officers from the Garda’s National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau and Gardaí stationed across the city assure the public that work is ongoing in the fight to defeat organised and drug related crime in our urban communities. I must commend their ongoing work in this regard. “It’s clear from trends in supply that more people than ever before are taking illegal drugs and that indicates that this is far from a Dublin specific issue. The sale and distribution of illegal narcotics has long taken hold elsewhere around the country. “The Cross Border Organised Crime Threat Assessment report published last month revealed that cocaine use in Ireland is close to reaching its 2007 peak. Where there is a demand there is a supply and no doubt last night’s quantity was set for the social circuits ahead of Christmas. That’s the sad reality and

most recreational users conveniently ignore the broader impact of their drug use and its direct links to criminality. “Recent hauls in other urban centres such as Cork and Limerick demonstrate that curtailing

the flow of drugs into and around Ireland requires huge resources, coordination, manpower and even greater intelligence sharing with international colleagues. “Local drug units operating

within An Garda Síochana in communities across the country should be given every State support to continue to intercept hauls of this size to obstruct the sale of drugs on our streets,” he concluded.

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor has said recognising the hard fought campaign of women suffragettes from the South County Dublin region is crucially important during this the 100th year anniversary of the suffragette movement and women being granted the right to vote for the first time in Ireland. South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has confirmed to Cllr O’Connor in recent weeks that the proposal to commemorate local women suffragettes in the area will be granted. An area at the entrance to Sean Walsh Park off the Old Bawn Road, Tallaght has been identified for the erection of memorial.

Chairperson of Tallaght Area Committee I am very pleased to have been informed by the Chief Executive that a uniquely designed plaque will incorporate the colours associated with the movement, is being prepared.

can show young people and children what it took for women to gain the right to vote. “I understand that students from Old Bawn Community College will partake in a commemoration and the unveiling of the memorial in Sean Walsh Park on December 17th. He concluded, “I do hope that it will act as a firm reminder to us all and those closest to us to never take that right for granted.”

MEMORIAL TO LOCAL WOMEN SUFFRAGETTES

O’Connor said, “The introduction of the Representation of the People Act which allowed women over 30, who had property rights or a university education, to vote for the first time was a profound moment in Irish civil society. “One hundred years on we should never lose sight of these women’s’ dedication to this cause and what they put themselves through during their campaign. As the

“This memorial is important and valuable for a number of reasons but it’s particularly significant to now have a place in the locality that

IT TALLAGHT EU SEMINAR

Pictured at the IT Tallaght on the occasion of the EU Seminar were Helen McEntee TD, Minister for European Affairs and Councillor Charlie O’Connor.

NEWCASTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2018

Happy shopping!

On the 2nd of December the village of Newcastle was lit up, attendees were treated to entertainment, a visit from Santa and much more! Pic Credit: Sabastian Sikora and Peter Simo.

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QUAD & SCRAMBLER BIKE SAFETY CAMPAIGN

South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and Fingal County Council (FCC) have launched a joint public awareness campaign highlighting the

dangers quad bikes and scramblers pose to children, and to urge parents not to gift them this Christmas. The campaign supports

THE NEXT MICHAEL FLATELY

Pictured is Joy Collins and Colette Monks. Earlier in the year in June Palmerstown Camera club presented an exhibition in the Lucan Library. In that exhibition they asked members of the public to pick their favorite image and enter the win a print competition, the winner was Colette Monks of Lucan. The image was taken by Joy Collins and it was called The Next Michael Flately. Joy presented the winning image to Colette in Lucan Library; Colette said she was very pleased to have won the image and has a place on the wall for it at home. Palmerstown Camera Club is always open to new members we meet in the Parish Centre in Palmerstown just opposite the Palmerstown House. For more details www.palmerstowncameraclub.com or on Facebook ‘Palmerstown Camera Club’.

the recent initiative by the Road Safety Authority, and will include an advert featuring motocross rider Stuart Edmonds. The advert outlines the correct environment, and care to be taken, when riding these vehicles, and will be shown in cinemas throughout South Dublin and Fingal.

This message is strongly supported by An Garda Síochána and Motor Cycling Ireland. 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 when these bikes are being used. 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 illegal to use these bikes in public parks and open spaces. Mr. Ally Menary, Road Safety

Officer, SDCC said: “Parents need to be aware that scramblers and quad bikes are not toys, particularly at this time of year. South Dublin County Council is working closely with An Garda Síochána to address anti-social behaviour arising from the use of these vehicles”. President of Motorcycling Ireland, Mr. Sean Bissett, encouraged young riders to use the resources that are provided

for them through MCI and said ‘There are affiliated clubs all over Ireland who can provide guidance and advice for beginners. The resources are there for people to enter this sport in a safe and responsible way and we encourage all riders to contact their club and learn how to partake in this sport correctly.’ Three of the four people who died in Ireland as a result

of an incident involving a quad bike or scrambler were aged 18 or under, in the period 2014 to 2017, according to provisional statistics published by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). The casualty figures also show that between 2014 and 2017, there were 39 people killed or injured in collisions involving a quadbike or scrambler on a public road. 16 or 41% were 18 years of age or under.

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YELLOW FLAG FOR ST AIDAN’S SENIOR NATIONAL SCHOOL

Minister Katherine Zappone has presented a Yellow Flag to St Aidan’s Senior National School, Brookfield, for its work on diversity, equality and inclusion. The awarding of the flag follows intense work by students, parents and staff at St Aidans. The Brookfield School has joined 13-other schools awarded flags at a national ceremony in Liberty Hall. Each completed eight steps to ensure that they are open and welcome to all.

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Presenting the flag Minister Zappone said: “Flying the Yellow Flag is a declaration. It tells the entire local community that St Aidans and all who study there believe in diversity, equality and inclusion for all. It

represents the completion of an intense two years of preparations during which young students took the lead. They not only made sure that the classrooms, corridors and playgrounds are open and welcoming to all, but that the themes of diversity and inclusion extended beyond the school walls and into the wider community. The actions of all at St Aidan’s gives me great hope for the future – not just of the school and the community but also of our country. The students have shown true equality is not just studied it means putting what has been learned into practice. I congratulate them on their award and wish them every success in their studies ahead.”

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LIDL TROLLEY DASH WINNERS AT LIDL FORTUNESTOWN Christmas came early for 158 Lidl shoppers across the country, who won the chance to dash around their local store in a Supermarket Sweep competition! With 2 weeks left till Christmas, each winner had 2 minutes to dash around a Lidl store and fill their trolley with as many products as possible. Patricia Briggs who was the winner in the Terenure store, managed to grab herself Eur624 worth of Christmas shopping for free. The

Eur1 tickets were sold in Lidl stores across the country from November 12th to December 2nd. 100% of proceeds from the sale of Lidl’s Trolley Dash tickets went to Jigsaw, Lidl’s charity partner. In County Dublin alone over Eur50,000 was raised for the charity. The Lidl Trolley Dash, which raised over Eur213,000 across Ireland, is part of

Lidl’s pledge to raise Eur1 million for Jigsaw in the next 3 years. Pictured is winner Patricia Briggs at Lidl’s Trolley Dash in Lidl Fortunestown with Deputy Store Managers Cristina Todirascu and Cristina Covas. Patricia filled her trolley with Eur624 of food in just 2 minutes. Photo Colm Mahady / Fennell PHotography

Novena to the Holy Spirit You who solve all problems, who lights all roads so 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 illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine (mention favours). This prayer must be said 3 consecutive days and published immediately. After 3 days the favour requested will be granted even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. L.C

who lights all roads so 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 illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine (mention favours). This prayer must be said 3 consecutive days and published immediately. After 3 days the favour requested will be granted even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. A.C.

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. P.R. 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.R. Novena to the Holy Spirit You who solve all problems,

UNFAILING PRAYER TO ST JUDE St Jude is the Patron Saint of Impossible Cases Glorius Apostle, Saint Jude, I salute you through the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Through his heart I praise and thank God for all the graces he has bestowed upon you. I implore you, through his love, to look upon me with comapssion. Do not despise my poor prayer, Do not let my trust be confounded! God has granted to you the privelege of aiding mankind in the most desperate cases. Oh , come to my aid that I may praise the mercies of God! All my life I will be your grateful client until I can thank you in heaven. Amen (Mention your request) Saint Jude, pray for us, and. for all who invoke your aid Your request may be granted by the 8th day. God willing. Publication of thanks to St Jude must be promised. Say this Novena nine times in a row for nine days in a row. E.D.

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In this edition of the paper, Romaine Scally, Principal in the Firm of Romaine Scally and Co, Solicitors, deals with the matter of the Appointment of Executors to Wills. As always please send your queries to Romaine Scally, Solicitors, Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24. Telephone 4599506, Email – legal@scally.ie Question – I am thinking of appointing my eldest son as my Executor. However, he is named in my Will as one of my Beneficiaries. Can I appoint somebody as Executor if they are also to benefit from my Will? A – Thankfully, there is no difficulty in appointing a Beneficiary as one of your Executors. This is commonly done as Testators often appoint family members who are almost invariably also Beneficiaries in the Will. The most important thing to remember however is that neither the Executor nor the Beneficiary can witness the Will as this would result in them losing their inheritance. In the circumstances, it is perfectly reasonable to appoint your son as your Executor and to name him as a Beneficiary in the Will, just so long as he or any other Beneficiary or Executor does not witnesses the Will. We strongly recommend that you have a Will prepared by a solicitor to ensure that it is correctly executed.

Question – I am a joint Executor with my sister in the Will of my late mother. Our father predeceased our mother. In my late mother’s Will, she left her house to our youngest sister who was still living at home at the time of her death. My sister wants to contest the Will but she is also an Executor. Can she do this? I have no difficulty with the contents of my late mother’s Will. A – This is unfortunate but not uncommon. An Executor can indeed dispute the contents of a Will but in order to do so, they must renounce their position as Executor. Your sister will have to sign a formal Renunciation Agreement and serve this on you as the joint Executor. This needs to be done as soon as possible as the application may not be valid if some duties have already been carried out by the Executor. This is obviously a major development in relation to the winding up of the affairs of your late mother and one on which you will have to seek legal advice. We strongly recommend that you attend with a solicitor to discuss the matter in more detail. However, provided that your sister has not left it too late to renounce her rights as Executor, she can do so but must do so sooner rather than later. She will have to appoint a separate firm of solicitors if she does indeed intend to contest the Will. Obviously the solicitor acting for the Estate cannot also act for a disgruntled Beneficiary. We would suggest an early appointment with a solicitor. Question – We are one of a family of six. Our mother died many years ago and our father died six months ago now. In his last Will, he appointed our eldest brother as the only Executor and directed that the former family home was to be sold and his entire estate to be divided between all his children. Our bother has now announced that he intends to buy the property for himself. We are not happy about this as he has not obtained any valuation of the property. He says that once our father directed that the house was to be sold, as the Executor, he can have first refusal on buying the property. Is he correct? A – Without seeing the Will, it is difficult to be specific in relation to your queries. However, assuming that your father merely directed that the house was to be sold and everything divided equally between his children then, your brother was not given first refusal to buy the house out from his siblings. It does happen in certain cases where a parent gives one or more family members the option to buy out their siblings to be exercisable within a certain period of time of their death. However, assuming that your father had no such clause in his Will then, your brother is incorrect when he says that he is entitled to buy the house himself. It may be that you could all come to an agreement with your brother regarding the market value of the property and allow him to buy you out under certain conditions. However, if any of you disagree with your brother buying out his siblings then, you can make this clear and direct the Executor to carry out your late father’s wishes and sell the property on the open market. There is nothing to stop your brother buying the property on the open market once it is processed through a firm of auctioneers. We suggest that you try to talk to your brother and explain this to him and if he is resistant to such explanations, you will need to consult with a solicitor and arrange for him or her to write directly to your brother or any solicitors appointed on his behalf and make it clear that you will not tolerate him buying our his siblings against their wishes. We wish you the best of luck.

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REDUCTION IN TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN RATHCOOLE CRUCIAL TO SUPPORT GROWING POPULATION

John Curran T.D, has recently welcomed news that South Dublin County Council (SDCC) is planning a number of measures in the New Year in an attempt to alleviate traffic congestion in Rathcoole.

The TD has raised the issue of traffic congestion in Rathcoole in Dáil Eireann and with SDCC in order that action will be taken to free up thousands of commuters and residents in Rathcoole, most of whom commute to and from work in the Greater Dublin Area. In a letter received from SDCC recently, Deputy Curran has been informed

that a number of measures will be carried out and trialled in the New Year in order to alleviate the existing level of traffic congestion in Rathcoole Village at peak times and also to pre-empt the future growth in the area. “In Q1 of 2019 and on completion of the R120 upgrade, SDCC will carry out a traffic study in Rathcoole with a view to assessing the volumes of traffic exiting the N7 and travelling North to Newcastle Village particularly at morning peak. SDCC are also planning a morning peak HGV ban in Rathcoole Village. This will

be trialled in Q1 of 2019 also. “It is hoped that these measures will have a positive effect on traffic flow. The continuing rise in population combined with the construction of new housing will place subsequent pressure on the surrounding road network on the N7. Local residents are crying out for something to be done to alleviate the bottleneck that occurs every day in Rathcoole Village. “Failing to plan for growth or future demand on roads will undoubtedly weaken our local transport infrastructure and

while I welcome this news from SDCC, I am continuing to raise the fact that a second Rathcoole Intersection on the N7 would help support the surrounding population of over 5,000 people, who commute to and from work in the Greater Dublin Area. Yet the Transport Minister, Shane Ross has not given one proposal that would address traffic congestion in Rathcoole and its suburbs and people are getting fed up with hours spent in traffic. I will continue to raise the issue of a second Rathcoole Intersection, concluded Deputy Curran.

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important to you, help you set goals and figure out a plan to achieve these and identify and eliminate anything that could block your progress on your journey to living the best life possible. Sharon will help you identify specific area’s in your life that are holding you back such as Relationships, Career, Finances, Confidence, Health, Environment and more. You will learn about the practical techniques used by highly effective people and also how to cultivate your own natural strengths. Develop skills to help you achieve great results and become the best version of you.

Sharon has trained as a life coach, happiness coach and mindfulness coach. “My passion in life is helping people so this is a dream for me” says Sharon. “About 10 years ago I started to change my life. I started with self help books like many people do then I progressed on to doing courses and I couldn’t get enough. I loved how I felt and how my life was changing for the better. I was always a positive person so I took to this new life

very easily. I also realised that this was what I wanted to do as a career. The thoughts of helping people to become as happy as I was encouraged me to train as a coach. I love helping people there is no better feeling for me. As the saying goes “do what you love and you never work a day in your life. I can honestly say that being a coach has made me even happier.” Sharon added “I have been

lucky enough to meet some amazing teachers, friends and authors along my journey who have helped me reach my full potential and it is my aim to help as many people as I can achieve their dreams and goals in life. If this sounds like something you would be interested in give me a call on 01 5343998 or 083 151 4777 or check out my website www. insideoutcoach.ie.” Sharon is located at 1B Main St, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

Inside Out Coach is a new local business that recently opened up in Clondalkin village. Set up by Sharon Fitzpatrick who is also a local Slimming World consultant.

Wishing all my Constituents a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year 20 Main Street, Clondalkin, D.22 Ph: 6183792

Email: john.curran@oireachtas.ie

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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: Wednesday mornings: 9:30am. Mobile: 085 1484669 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 Citywest Scoil Aoife (Opposite LIDL) Fortunestown Lane, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 1402870

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Ailish Slimming World Knocklyon Iona Centre (Beside Knocklyon Parish) Knocklyon, Dublin 16. Times: Thursday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 087 7445909

Sharon Coleman Sliming World Plaza Hotel Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Wednesday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 710 3660 Noeleen Herbage Slimming World Firhouse Firhouse Community & Leisure Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Monday Evenings: 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Mobile: 085 749 9296 Lorraine Barron Slimming World Rathcoole Rathcoole Community Centre, Rathcoole, Co Dublin. Times: Monday evening 5.30pm & 7.30pm Mobile: 087 9380943 Rachael Slimming World Firhouse Community Centre Ballycullen Drive, Firhouse, Dublin 24 Times: Tuesday Mornings 9.30am Mobile: 0857781109

Christine Murphy Slimming World Tallaght Plaza Hotel Plaza Hotel Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Times: Saturday Mornings: 9.00 am & 11.00am Mobile: 086 088 5142 Tracey Quinn Slimming World Tymon North & Balrothery St. Joseph’s Special School, Balrothery, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Times: Wednesday Evenings at 5.30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 1477748 Paula Slimming World Rowlagh Community Centre, Rowlagh Community Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 Times: Tuesday Evenings 5:30pm & 7:30pm Mobile: 085 810 9812

Paula Slimming World Ballyfermot Community Church Ballyfermot Community Church, 1 Drumfinn Park, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10 Times: Monday Mornings 9:30am. Mobile: 085 810 9812 Martine Slimming World Green Isle Hotel Naas Road, Newlands Cross, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Times: Tuesday Mornings 9:30am & 11:30am Wednesday Mornings 9:30am & 11:30am. Mobile: 089 4482127 Sharon Fitzpatrick Slimming World Deansrath/ Bawnogue St. Ronan’s Community Centre, Deansrath, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 Times: Tuesday Evenings: 6:30pm Thursday Mornings: 9:30am Mobile: 083 1514777

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MOTORING LIFE WITH VOLVO V60 IS A VERSATILE FAMILY ESTATE CAR By Breda Corrigan The new Volvo V60 is a versatile family estate car that helps you make the most of every moment. An advanced chassis, powerful engines and a choice of driving modes put the driver at the centre of an engaging driving experience. Inside, Scandinavian craftsmanship combines with smart technology to create a place where enjoyable time will be spent. New Standard of Safety; Few car manufacturers can match Volvo Cars’ history and credibility in making well-designed, practical and versatile estate cars. The new V60, one of the safest cars ever made, is fully loaded with new technology. The V60 introduces a new standard to the mid-size premium estate segment, with a luxurious interior, increased levels of space, advanced connectivity, plus Volvo Cars’ latest driver support systems and other safety technology. The City Safety with Autobrake technology uses automatic braking and detection systems to assist the driver in avoiding potential collisions, and is the only system on the market to recognise pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. In a world first, City Safety now also engages autobraking to mitigate oncoming collisions. Specifications and Engines; There are three trim levels in the new Volvo V60 – Momentum (offering executive style with a high level of technology), R-Design (sporty looks with dynamic driving ability) and Inscription (beautifully crafted, modern Swedish luxury). In Ireland, the new V60 is only available with a choice of two 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines for now – a ‘D3’ with 150bhp and a ‘D4’ with 190bhp, while manual or automatic gearboxes are available with both engines. Standard specification across the range is hugely impressive, with even the entry-level Momentum trim including a multi-function & leather-bound 3-spoke steering wheel, cruise control, keyless

start, LED headlights with Active High Beam and daytime-running lights, poweroperated tailgate, roof rails, rear park assist, 17” alloy wheels, tyre pressure monitoring system, electronic climate control, 12.3” Active TFT crystal driver’s information display, leather upholstery, Volvo On-Call, DAB radio, Bluetooth, Sensus Navigation with European mapping, traffic information and lifetime annual map updates, along with an unrivalled array of safety and security features. Test Car; My test car was a new Volvo V60 D4 Inscription Automatic and was finished in stunning Pebble Grey metallic paint with Maroon Brown leather interior for maximum impact. In addition to the Momentum specification, the Inscription model includes features such as Nappa soft perforated leather, multi-colour theatre lighting, powered driver and passenger seats with memory function, 4-way lumbar support, silver roof rails, chrome window surround, front LED fog-lights, parking assistance front & rear and an autodimming interior mirror. The ‘D4’ engine in my test car produces 190bhp and a hefty 400Nm of torque for effortless acceleration. The 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 7.9-seconds, with a top-speed of 220km/h possible (where permitted). Volvo claims fuel consumption as low as 4.5-litres is possible for every 100km driven on an extra-urban driving cycle, while I achieved a, truly impressive, 5.6-l/100km during my time with the car, on a combined driving cycle. Annual road tax ranges between €200 and €270 depending on the engine and transmission chosen. On the road, the new V60 handles with poise and precision thanks to the cars direct steering and excellent driving dynamics, while the car soaks up uneven road surfaces with ease. The inside of the car is a relatively quiet place to be, with

minimal amounts of road and wind noise audible within the cabin, while the smooth four-cylinder diesel engine is one of the quietest around. Distinctive Volvo Trademark; The new V60 is a handsome car, very similar to the bigger V90 in terms of proportion but 180mm shorter and with enough detail differences to avoid any confusion on the road. The now familiar ‘Thor’s Hammer’ front LED lights and wraparound tail-lights are a pure Volvo trademark and are very well integrated into the design of the new V60. Interior & Boot Space; As with other recent Volvo models, the interior takes a refreshingly different approach to rivals. The quality of the materials used is exceptionally good, while the design is all about Scandinavian tranquility and serenity. Cabin ergonomics are superb, with many of the car’s functions controlled via the large touchscreen in the centre of the dash. The new V60’s useful 529-litre boot (rising to 1,441 litres with the rear seats folded flat – a process that couldn’t be easier) is bigger than any of its German rivals, while knee room in the back is also claimed to

be best-in-class. In-Car Technology; Technology is a strong point of the new V60. As well as the standard 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen that dominates the centre of the dash, there’s a digital instrument display, all the latest smartphone integration, a raft of impressive safety kit, and Volvo’s useful Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system – updated for the new V60. As with other cars in the Volvo range, optional ‘packs’ are available for the new V60 – including the Winter Pack, Xenium Pack, Versatility Pack and High Performance Pro Pack that were fitted to my test car. As a result, it is possible to build the new V60 to the exact specification of each customer, thereby allowing for the ultimate in personalisation. Pricing; The fact that the new Volvo V60 looks as good as it does, offers surprising levels of dynamic ability and has a genuinely desirable and spacious interior only adds to its broad appeal, and is sure to be another huge sales success for Volvo. Prices for the new V60 start at €40,750 (ex-works), while my test car (including options) is priced at €55,995 (ex-works).

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