Tallaght News 11.01.21 by Newsgroup

11th January 2021

PAY & ALLOWANCES FOR STUDENT Tallaght Stone Centre headstones crafted for all cemeteries NURSES AND MIDWIVES NEEDS TO Tel: (01) 462 6200 Fax: (01) 462 6209 BE ADDRESSED email: info@tallaghtstonecentre.ie web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie

Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe has called on the Government to address the issue of pay and allowances for Student Nurses and Midwives.

Teachta Sean Crowe commented that the important role and work of student nurses and midwife trainees had been highlighted time and time again during the COVID Pandemic where they continuously fill gaps and go beyond the training element of their contracts. The Sinn Féin TD said:

“The government’s delay and refusal to put in place a fair pay and allowances system for student nurses and midwives doesn’t stand up to scrutiny and is insulting to these workers.

We all know the important role and work of student nurses and midwife trainees during the last twn months of COVID Pandemic and while the pandemic continues currently where they continuously fill gaps and go beyond the training element of their contracts. This

issue is about fairness and respect and needs to be urgently addressed.

The Tallaght TD added “We need to send out a clear message to graduate nurses and midwives that while we understand and seek to maintain the education element of their training, we equally acknowledge the vital work that they have carried out and particularly in the last ten months during this COVID Pandemic. “Sinn Féin supports the INMO’s call for fair pay

for 4th year graduates and allowances for all 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years. The TD continuted “By delivering on this, we will be moving beyond worthless clapping and back slapping. We need to send out a positive and real message to student nurses and midwives that we value the work that they do and we want them to eventually work full time in Irish health care and service settings.

The local Tallaght TD concluded “The Minister set up a review which he promised would be completed by the end of December. We need to see real movement on this issue and the Government need to understand this crucial pay issue will not go away for the student nurses and midwives who are currently training and working during the COVID Pandemic.”

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GHOSTING WILL COST CLIMATE CHANGE ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT LIVES New trend of ghosting will cost lives and must be stopped. Emer Higgins TD said: “The latest social media challenge called ghosting is on the rise and has Gardaí concerned. “Make no mistake - this challenge will cost lives. I implore young people to think twice before ghosting cars and cyclists. As well as leaving themselves at risk they could cause a car to hit another car or vulnerable road user. “Already we have seen one young Irish social media user hospitalised over this. “I hope young people can learn from this and give up this dangerous challenge. “There may

also be an opportunity for a discussion on road safety in the classroom. “We know how good young people are these days at communicating, raising awareness of the issues that affect them and listening to each other. Please talk to your friends about this and discourage them if you see anyone attempting to engage in this. You could save the life of a friend. “Parents, who might not have been aware of the trend to date, need to also sit up and take notice. Talk to your teenagers; educate them about road safety and the dangers of challenges like this.”

South Dublin releases first Climate Change Annual Progress Report and announces significant achievement in energy efficiency. #SDCCClimateAction. Climate change remained high on the agenda in South Dublin County Council when the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Ed O’Brien launched the Annual Progress Report (2020) of the Councils Climate Action Plan and the 2019 Energy Review. The publication of the Progress Report marks one year since South Dublin launched their Climate Action Plan which has 4 key objectives and 130

actions of the CCAP. The 2020 update gave an indication on the progress being made on the 130 actions described in the CCAP. Of the 130 actions, 7 have been completed, 111 are ongoing, 11 have not yet started and 1 action has been postponed due to Covid-19 safety operating procedures. The Energy Review 2019 was also recently published. main achievement presented was that SDCC surpassed its improvement in energy efficiency target of 33% by 2020, one year ahead of schedule, and that we are well placed to meet our 40% reduction in

GHG emissions by 2030. Achieving this milestone, is a significant feat, and is a result of a sustained effort across all departments within SDCC to manage energy and reduce waste. Our new energy improvement target is set at a 50% improvement (over the baseline figure) by 2030. Our progress towards this target is underway, and we will realise it through continued efficiency improvements to our buildings, our fleet and public lighting upgrades. A full copy of the report can be downloaded on www.sdcc.ie/en/ news/2019-sdcc-energy-review.pdf

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Pictured Cllr Ed O’Brien Mayor of South Dublin with Fionnuala Ryan, Darby Mullen and Chris Galvin. Picture credit: Ben Ryan

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DRIVER THEORY TEST SHOULD BE DEEMED ESSENTIAL

A Clondalkin Councillor has called for the driver theory tests to be deemed an “essential service” by the government. Some of those who have had their theory test cancelled have been

waiting for up to six months already for an appointment and further delay like this will only lead to further backlogs in the system. The cancellation of the driver theory test affects younger

people especially, as they are setting out on their working life and careers.

Cllr William Carey added, for many, “obtaining a driving licence is their route

LOCAL TD CALLS FOR STRICTER PLANNING ENFORCEMENT Dublin Mid West TD Gino Kenny has called on the government to introduce stricter planning enforcement measures to tackle planning breaches. The comments were made following new revelations in relation to planning breaches at former Liffey Valley Fitness, now known as Larkfield House.

In early 2019 it was reported that the owner had constructed a number of apartments on the site without planning permission. At the last Lucan/Palmerstown/North Clondalkin area committee a reply to a question from Cllr Madeleine Johansson revealed that the owner once again had sought retention for the additional units without rectifying prior breaches. Gino Kenny TD commented: “The situation in former Liffey Valley Fitness has been ongoing for almost two years. As of yet the only enforcement measure has been a warning letter issued by the council in July

2019. It’s completely unacceptable that developers and land owners are allowed to breach planning regulations without any consequences. I’m calling on the government to introduce stricter planning enforcement measures to tackle the complete disregard by certain developers for planning regulations.”

Cllr Madeleine Johansson added: “There should be some regard to previous breaches of planning regulations by individuals when a new application is received. The owner of Larkfield House, Vincent Cosgrave, recently applied for planning permission on a site at Watery Lane in Clondalkin Village where the council has requested additional information. Any individual who has been in breach of planning regulation should automatically be rejected when seeking planning permission. There needs to be serious consequences for any developer/ land owner who builds without permission.”

to employment and for many it is often as important as passing their leaving certificate”. “We have set a very high standard in this this country for obtaining a driving licence and it is an essential tool for many people seeking employment. This delay in the process may not seem much, but my fear is that it will have knock on effects further in the process that will lead to further delays in driver testing. “I find it astonishing that the theory test, which is the first step for all people wishing to obtain a driving licence should be omitted from the chain of procedures. The theory test takes place in a controlled environment, sitting in front of a computer screen and it is ludicrous to think that this cannot be provided safely”. Cllr. Carey was speaking after learning that the driver theory test has not been included as an “essential service” in the list of services provided by the Road Safety Authority. Cllr Carey concluded by saying

“my grandson applied for his test last July (2019) and Jan 2020 was the earliest he was offered which has now been cancelled, young people cannot be expected to put their life on hold

because of this pandemic”. We need to ensure that young people see their futures progressing in front of them, and receiving their permit for driving is an essential part of that.

Pictured Corey Carey (17) who received notification of his cancelled test recently.

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TECHNOLOGY ENABLES UNIQUE MUSICAL COLLABORATION WITH VISUALLY IMPAIRED SINGER/SONGWRITER

Recently Tallaght recording artist Laura Dempsey launched two new songs. Laura is a visually impaired singer and songwriter who recorded the two songs during lockdown. Laura originally wrote the lyrics to her first song ‘This is my family’ a few years ago with fellow musician Alan Kavanagh and wrote her second song ‘Me and my friends’ this year. During lockdown she finally had an opportunity to produce and record the final tracks in collaboration with Peter Fitzpatrick, Fiach Ó Muircheartaigh and Alan Kavanagh. As Laura is visually impaired she uses JAWS, a computer screen reader program for Microsoft Windows to write the lyrics. The whole project was completed virtually with the musicians meeting once a week using Microsoft Teams technology. Laura’s inspiration for the songs is her family and her

friends. Like a lot of people with disabilities who are cocooning at home, Laura found lockdown this year a very difficult experience. “I was looking at other people, like my sister, fulfilling their dreams and I wanted something positive for myself that I could do.

So I decided to write these two songs and it has been a really positive experience for me. I got to work with a really great bunch of people. It wouldn’t have happened without the support of my friends in Enable Ireland. I’m so delighted with the positive reaction that my songs are getting. It sounds strange but lockdown has really changed my life for the good.” Laura is passionate about music and has even performed on stage with Frances Black, one of her favourite artists. Laura says while she has struggled with her disability in the past, being on stage meant

she didn’t feel like she had a disability. Laura is currently learning to play the keyboard and attends Enable Ireland Adult Services in Crumlin.

Peter Fitzpatrick, Group Manager at Microsoft Ireland and electronic music artist, aka Circuit3, commented: “Laura has an innate song writing ability, is bursting with musicality and is incredibly determined to produce and record her songs. As I worked with her to achieve her goal, I saw first-hand the many ways in which Assistive Technology can create a more inclusive environment, one that empowers people to achieve more. I really hope that Laura’s story will inspire others to pursue their ambitions.” Because of Covid-19 restriction, Laura and her fellow musician have never met face to face and are looking forward to meeting

in person in 2021 and working on further musical collaborations. You can

download the two new songs from Laura Dempsey ‘This is my Family’ and ‘Me and

my friends’ from any digital music platform, including Spotify and iTunes.

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TALLAGHT GROUP AWARDED FUNDING THROUGH MUSIC CAPITAL SCHEME

Music Network recently announced the results of the Music Capital Scheme 2020. A total of €248,200 in funding from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media has been awarded to 29 performing groups and 21 individual musicians across Ireland. Tallaght music organisation Alternative Entertainments was one of the awardees receiving €3,857. Alternative Entertainments are based in Rua Red in Tallaght and have been

programming arts events for the community since its establishment in 1982. The Music Capital Scheme established in 2008 is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and managed by Music Network. The Scheme provides funding for the purchase of musical instruments in two discrete categories of support, to both nonprofessional performing groups and individual professional performing musicians. The Music

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Capital Scheme has enabled many thousands of musicians across Ireland to develop their musical potential and participate in the performance of live music.

Commenting on the initiative, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin TD said: “I am delighted to have provided support to The Music Capital Scheme this year. It is important to enable musicians to develop their craft and by helping them to buy their instruments we are ensuring they continue to grow and develop their skills. This scheme supports a very wide range of musicians including youth bands, ensembles, orchestras, community initiatives and resource organisations in every corner of the State.” Music Network’s CEO Sharon Rollston said: “The Music Capital Scheme

was established in 2008 and 413 awards have been made to date. Music Network’s mission is to make high quality live music accessible to communities throughout Ireland, as well as to support musicians to

excel in the performance and creation of music. The range of instruments provided through the scheme continues to make a significant impact on the quality of, and access to, music making and live music

performance across Ireland. We greatly appreciate the continued support of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media in funding this valuable Scheme.”

CRAB APPLE TREES POSING A DANGER

Local Councillor Charlie O’Conor recently asked the following at the South Dublin County Council (SDCC) area committee meeting “To ask the Chief Executive if he is aware of the concerns being expressed regarding the problems being created by Crab Apple Trees particularly when the fallen apples pose danger especially for pedestrians; will he detail actions he will take and make a statement?” SDCC confirmed the following; “The Council’s Tree Management Policy – Living with Trees states that the Council will not fell or prune Council owned trees solely to alleviate problems caused by natural and/or seasonal phenomena such as fruit / berries, nuts or blossom which are legally outside their control. Problems caused by

falling fruit, berries, nuts or blossom are natural and seasonal occurrences and not something the Irish legal system recognises as a ‘legal nuisance’. Whilst they are judged a relatively minor inconvenience when considering the many benefits of having trees within an urban environment. Fruit trees such as apple, cherry and pear are welcomed in many locations for having the double benefit of spring blossom and autumn fruit. This makes fruit trees good for wildlife and a source of free food. However, where fallen fruit is leading to a significant antisocial behaviour problems the Council will consider measures to reduce the problem including whether a phased removal and replacement with alternative species is reasonable”.

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DECISION BY DATA PROTECTION COMMISSION AGAINST TWITTER

A decision by the Data Protect Commission against Twitter recently sends a serious message to all businesses and data controllers to have

systems in place to ensure compliance with GDPR, a Fine Gael Senator has said. Senator Mary Seery-Kearney was speaking after the DPC,

as the Irish Supervisory Authority or privacy watchdog, imposed a fine of €450,000 on Twitter for a breach of Article 33(1) and 33(5) #GDPR. Senator

Seery-Kearney said, “The breach centres on a bug that publicly exposed the tweets of private restricted accounts on android devices. The fine however

COST OF CANCER CARE NEEDS TO BE TACKLED TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that more needs to be done to alleviate the financial burden on cancer patients saying that there are a great deal of costs that fall outside of direct treatment that can put a strain on households at a very difficult time. Teachta Crowe said: “Being in treatment for cancer is an enormously difficult time for anyone. The treatments can have debilitating effects on the body and mind and, in many cases, the patient is unable to work. While many of everyday costs of hospital treatments may be taken care of, there are a huge number of additional expenses that are incurred because of personal care items or lifestyle changes that have to be made. “These additional expenses do not fall under health insurance or medical card cover and more needs to be done to combat the debt that can be incurred following a cancer diagnosis. “This includes sometimes very simple, but essential, things. Most hospitals have a package in place for parking a

minimum of €5 is place in St James, but if you are in the hospital every day for treatment for weeks at a time, it can quickly mount up into hundreds of euro. Other options like bus or LUAS runs at a similar daily rate and one can only imagine the pressure on people travelling outside of the Capital.

“I have come across people sleeping cars in hospital car parks not having the money for a hotel room waiting for an early appointment for themselves or loved ones. “Simple things like special shampoo, creams, wipes, pads, lunches, and refreshments all cost additional money. “Having to heat your home more is a very common side effect of chemo treatment. This again can rack up the cost of running your household at a time one can least afford it. Childcare might become more necessary due to hospital visits. Everyone in Ireland knows the outrageous costs of the childcare industry due to government negligence. “The Irish Cancer Society in their ‘Real Cost of Cancer’ report estimated that the average additional

cost post-diagnosis is €756 per month. This is a staggering amount of money. No one should have to bear the equivalent of a mortgage payment while coping with cancer. “Some very simple changes can help relieve this burden. Inpatient fees for cancer patients and hospital parking charges should be eliminated. The automatic medical card for terminally ill and cancer patients should be fully implemented and streamlined to ensure that patients receive their card as soon as possible after diagnosis. Prescription charges should be removed and the Drug Payment Scheme amended to take into account the long-term nature of a cancer battle. “Tackling and dealing with living with cancer is hard enough without these added financial challenges. Surely, we shouldn’t be forcing those who are struggling with this life changing and, in some cases, life ending disease to be snowed under with mounting and astronomical bills at such a difficult time in their lives.”

is not for the breach itself, but instead for the failure to report it in accordance with GDPR obligations that require a reporting of a breach to the DPC within 72 hours of its detection. The second element was for the failure to adequately document the breach. “The timeline for the breach is that the bug was detected on 26 Dec 2018, its seriousness wasn’t appreciated until 3rd January 2019 due to what the company cites as Christmas holiday staffing levels. The breach was eventually reported to the DPC 8th January 2018, outside the mandatory 72 hour notice period. The administrative fine is for a failure to adequately document the breach and a failure to report it within the requisite time frame. “I think all businesses need to give urgent and serious consideration to their systems of reporting breaches to the DPC. Invariably, in my experience as a Data Protection Officer for several organisations,

breaches occur on a Thursday evening and by the time internal investigations can occur and the matter is dealt with it can be up to a week later before the report is made. “I have always encouraged companies to make a precautionary notification to the DPC once a breach is suspected, it can be withdrawn later if found to be over zealous, but it is much better to be wrong about the breach, than to fail to notify it within the legal timeframe. “Businesses who fail to prepare for a breach may find their failure to be very costly. This is especially important while employees are working from home. “The decision by the DPC also illustrates that how a breach is handled is just as important as the fact that it occurred, so being prepared for the breach, even during holidays with depleted staffing numbers, and the administration of that breach process is vital for all businesses,” Senator Seery-Kearney concluded.

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Newsgroup Education & Training Feature

I Wish 2021 Launch I Wish 2021 was launched recently and will take place virtually on 4th March 2021. I Wish is designed to raise awareness of and build excitement amongst teenage girls on the myriad of opportunities that a STEM career can offer women. The 2021 event will see over 10,000 female secondlevel students, industry leaders and stakeholders tuning in live to an event which promises to be like no other virtual event. The event will combine a Main Stage with “Ted Talk” style key notes, including some international speakers, plus special “day in the life” videos, interactive showcases from industry partners including Arup, Dell, Johnson & Johnson, and a Social Media Hub where students and industry partners can engage directly with the event. There will also feature interviews with some of the amazing women shaping a better

world through STEM.

To launch the 2021 event I Wish organised a special audience with Minister for Education, Norma Foley TD, students from The Teresian School, to consider the findings of the I Wish 2020 Survey. Also playing a key role in the event are key partners and stakeholders including Arts and Creativity partner Rethink Ireland and digital partner Deloitte Ireland. Over 2,500 secondlevel girls participated in this survey, the largest of its kind of secondary school girls and their attitudes towards STEM in Ireland. A key discovery in this year’s survey is the potential link between girls who play sport and their pursuit of STEM. With a trend showing that a girl who plays more than four hours of sport a week could be as much as 89% more likely to have studied higher level maths

to Junior Cert and could be as much as 32% more likely to have studied Junior Cert science. Furthermore, the survey showed that girls who play more than two hours of organised sport per week were more likely to agree that they would pursue a career in a maledominated area - and I Wish would like to see this link being explored further.

Minister Foley stated “It’s important for us in government and for industry to hear directly from girls on what influences them on their subject and career choices. Being a teacher in an all-girls school for many years, I understand how formative this time is for young girls and we all have a responsibility parents, teachers, industry, and government to foster a sense of inclusion and opportunity for all. The impact of the I Wish events, nurturing young girls and

opening their eyes to an education and career in STEM is to be commended and I look forward to learning more about the very exciting virtual event I Wish are planning for in March and to learning more from the girls through the survey results.” Caroline O’Driscoll, partner with Deloitte Ireland LLP and one of the founders of I Wish stated “The postCovid environment has accelerated the pace of technology and scientific discovery and we have all experienced the rate at which science and technology can change all our lives for the better. We have also seen however how whole sections of our communities have been more exposed to the worst of what the pandemic threw at us. We must learn from the inequities the pandemic has exposed and work harder than ever to ensure

that the next generation of girls are fully enabled to engage with STEM. If we do nothing there is a significant risk that girls will be left behind in the economy of the future. We are excited to discover the potential link between sport and STEM choices and how this connection could unlock one of the impediments to girls choosing STEM subjects

and career pathways. 2021 will mark the first I Wish online experience, ensuring that we are continuing to positively engage with the girls and their teachers so that girls are excited about the future and see STEM as a way to secure their place in that future.” To register your school or to learn more about this virtual STEM showcase, please visit www.iwish.ie.

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AGRI AWARE LAUNCHES UPDATED EDUCATION PROGRAMME

A primary school education programme has been relaunched aiming to reconnect Irish children to their farming and food roots. Agri Aware, supported by the Department of

Agriculture, Food and the Marine has launched its revitalised Dig In! Learning About Life on the Countryside resource aimed at primary school students. The resource, which is being

sent to all of Ireland’s 3,240 primary schools, contains innovative modules that cover all aspects of Irish farming and food origin, from biodiversity friendly farming methods and

animal welfare to healthy eating guidelines.

Agri Aware redeveloped and updated its Dig In! resource, first published in 2013, as it increasingly observed

EU PROJECT TO REVISE FOOD SECURITY PROCEDURES

The restaurant and catering industries have been negatively affected by the restrictions put in place to manage COVID-19, requiring new guidance for food companies on how to demonstrate that effective controls are in place to mitigate risks associated with COVID-19. A new EU project called SAFELIVERY, funded by the COVID-19 Rapid Response Call for Innovation, will address safety gaps in food delivery services. The project will provide ready to use solutions and will revise the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) scheme to better suit the food delivery and catering sectors ensuring that human factors and equipment risks associated with deliveries are included. SAFELIVERY has received funding of over €545,000 from Europe’s leading food innovation initiative – EIT Food. It is coordinated by the University of Bologna working with Tecnoalimenti S.C.p.A, Technological University Dublin, Queen’s University Belfast and Italian SME Aria. The Online

Food Delivery segment in the EU has projected revenues amounting to over €19,000m in 2020, and the market is expected to show an annual growth rate of 8.2% by 2024. However, it is important to address some concerns raised for consumers as a result of the impact of the current situation.

Dr Maria Chiara Leva, Dissemination Manager for SAFELIVERY at TU Dublin, says that the Tecnoalimenti was the initiator of this team effort thanks to their patent for an anti-tampering box and seal system for food deliveries. “From then on, the proposal took its first steps, thanks to the University of Bologna’s coordination, which widened the scope to include other food services and ready-to-eat foods. The project now aims to develop protocols to reduce the risk of food surfaces and packaging contamination by microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses.” Continuing Dr Maria Chiara Leva, said, “SAFELIVERY alongside the anti-

tampering seals’ system, will also provide enhanced HACCP protocols to manage and control risks concerning potential human factors and delivery conditions. At the same time, an enhanced training package will be created for food handlers and deliverers. The solutions are aimed at providing quality assurance for consumer food deliveries, in addition to collecting information on food and diet choices during and after the pandemic, that has led to more catering and food delivery operators using digital and web applications.” As part of the EIT’s Crisis Response Initiative, this activity directly contributes to the European Union’s response to the COVID19 pandemic. Under the leadership of EIT, EIT Food and its other Knowledge Innovation Communities (KICs) have deployed these COVID19 Response Calls at an unprecedented speed, ensuring that industries across Europe are being supported in their time of need.

that Irish children are becoming more and more disconnected to how the food that ends up on their dinner plates is produced from farm to fork. Dig In!, which also comes as a digital resource, is divided into four modules according to levels of ability for Junior and Senior Infants; 1st and 2nd class; 3rd and 4th class and 5th and 6th class. Each module contains 20 readyto-go lesson plans and corresponding activities. Furthermore, each lesson plan is linked to strands of the English, Maths, Art, Drama, Science, Geography and SPHE curriculum.

Children will gain a real insight into all aspects of Irish farming, from

learning how animals are reared and crops are grown, to understanding water pollution and how farmers can reduce their carbon footprint. The revitalised resource also contains a first of its kind Irish Organic Farming PullOut Poster which highlights the growing involvement of Irish farmers in the sector in recent years. To learn more about Dig In!, teachers and families can follow @Agriaware on social media where it will be explaining the benefits of using the resource. To access a digital version of the resource teachers can visit: https://www.agriaware. ie/digin.html.

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WANT TO BECOME A QUALIFIED LEAVING AND JUNIOR CERT STUDY TRANSPORT MANAGER? AID OFFERS FREE ACCESS

If you want to pursue a career in Transport, unlock your potential and gain a recognised qualification then you need a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in Transport Management. This Certificate, which is

awarded by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, qualifies you as a Transport Manager and also entitles you to set up a haulage or bus passenger business. A CPC is also extremely beneficial for employment opportunities,

career advancement, or if you want to up-skill. Subjects covered in the course include: managing a transport business; employment & contract law; health & safety legislation; financial management; tachograph & hours of driving legislation; national and international documentation, HRM etc. In preparation for the next exam on Wed. 31st March Tony will be running part and full-time courses in the Green Isle Hotel starting on Sat. 30th January and Wed. 24th February.

Course Director, Tony Hynes, MBS, B.Comm, FCLIT, FCIPD, FIITD.

If you wish to obtain further information please contact: 1890-374837; 087-6363003; email info@cpc.ie or visit www.cpc.ie.

Venue: Green Isle Hotel P/Time Sat. 30th January

F/Time Wed. 24th February

ExamRevision.ie was launched in March 2020 by three Dublin-based secondary school teachers: Keith Walsh, Áine Devlin and Paddy Ward. The subscription model website has premium, standard and free accounts for students and teachers as well as class and whole school plans. Given the most recent school closures announced for January 2021 and to help students, teachers and parents across the country, ExamRevision.ie has decided to run a FREE TRIAL of the website- giving teachers and students complete FREE access to all standard and premium features on ExamRevision. ie. This offer will run until 17th January 2021. To avail of the free trial, students and teachers should register for a free account on examrevision.ie and they will be automatically upgraded to premium. The subscription website specialises in providing tailored interactive videos which enable students to take ownership of their learning for Leaving Certificate and Junior Cycle Irish, English, Maths, Business, Geography, Science, German, Chemistry and Economics. The website includes selfcorrecting quizzes, past exam papers, PowerPoint presentations, notes and video tutorials. These resources are perfect for students and teachers facing uncertainty

around school closures as the website enables students to revise and learn the syllabus in a fun and interactive manner, using proven methods. “Our Co-Owner, Áine Devlin’s Masters research found that students learn more effectively with video compared to written examples” said Keith Walsh, CEO, ExamRevision.ie. “This is due to the integration between visual and verbal information.”. The self-correcting quizzes enable students to develop their knowledge in a fun and collaborative environment. The quizzes provide students with instant feedback to assess and track their development. An exam builder tool gives students access to previous exam questions. They can correct answers against the marking scheme to see where they need to improve. This saves students’ time, helping them to achieve successful exam results. The website contains high quality resources which cater for all different types of learners. The founders use all major developments in education, teaching and learning to continually develop and improve each subject. For more information examrevision.ie.

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SEVEN REASONS TO CHOOSE INCHICORE COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION 1. Inchicore College is a leader in further education. Renowned for our friendly and welcoming atmosphere and our excellent range of innovative courses, studying with us will take students to the next level of their education and/or career pathway. Our graduates have gone on to achieve exceptional success in both employment and higher education. 2. We have an exciting range of courses in the Creative and Performing Arts, Business & Computers, Sport, Nursing and Healthcare, Childcare & Education, Applied Psychology, Social Care & Social Studies, Theatre, Tourism, Dance, Costume Design & Make-Up. We also have part-time BTEI courses in Return to Education, Childcare, Furniture Design, Horticulture, Hospital Administration and Basic Fitness. 3. Our students are central to our purpose and we are committed to their success.

4. We have a dedicated team of highly qualified staff with vast industry experience who retain close links with their fields. 5. Our small class sizes and flexible teaching methods allow for greater participation and students can learn in ways that best suit them. 6. Inchicore College graduates go places. We have an exceptional track record for student progression to higher education. F0r example, every year our graduates are highly successful in achieving CAO places via the higher education links progression system with many also progressing to study in the UK. 7. At Inchicore College, our Erasmus+ programme is second to none. Our highly regarded work placement programme offers students the opportunity to work and study in countries such as Sweden, The Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Finland, Italy and France.

For students who are considering their educational choices for 2021, Inchicore College of Further Education offers the very best of courses with proven pathways to employment and higher education. Look no further.

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COLLEGE CHOICE - A DIFFERENT SCHOOLS IN DUBLIN ARE REMINDED TO ENTER PATHWAY WITH BIFE THE ACTIONTALKS COMPETITION While in many cases students, schools and but also as an alternative route on to a parents see the CAO as the ‘be all and end all’ for those seeking third level education, nothing could be further from the truth according to Gabriel Allen, deputy principal at Bray Institute of Further Education (BIFE). “Over recent years many new avenues have opened up to students to enable them pursue their dream career via a different route.” He added, “Further Education offers a learner, who may not have achieved the required CAO points, the opportunity to gain advanced entry onto honours degree programmes, both in Ireland and abroad.” The huge range of courses available at BIFE offers learners fabulous opportunities, not only for those looking for additional skills or hoping to go directly into employment,

college course in a university or institute of technology in Ireland or abroad. Over the past few years, graduates of BIFE have achieved honours degrees across a wide range of programmes, opening up a myriad of career opportunities from graphic design to performing arts to psychology.

This year BIFE will offer Higher National Diplomas in the following: • Fine Art - Art Practice • Acting • Dance • TV & Film (Moving Image) • Music Production • Music Performance • Applied Social Studies • Graphic Design • Fashion Design

BIFE staff and students visiting IT Tallaght. (BIFE have signed a formal “Access to Higher Education” agreement with IT Tallaght and a number of other IT’s).

Will 2021 be the year for a second Dublin winner? Students in Dublin are reminded to submit their entries to ActionTalks, a national speech writing competition organised by ActionAid. The competition, which opened for entries on 14th October, is aimed at secondary school students aged 14 to 17. ActionAid has already had a lot of interest from students across the country and hopes for more entrants from Dublin before Friday 15th January 2021. Finalists from around the country will be invited to deliver their speech to a panel of esteemed judges at a Zoom event on 24th February 2021. This year the prize is a €500 voucher for the winner and a €500 voucher for their teacher. Only one previous winner has come from Dublin, Sooad Saleh, a student at Jesus & Mary College, Goatstown, was joint winner of the 2017 competition. ActionAid provides long term support to the poorest and most marginalised

women and children in developing countries, so they can overcome the obstacles holding them back. Its Women’s Rights Programme, funded by Irish Aid, works to eliminate violence against women and girls through innovative community-led approaches. Now in its seventh year, this year the competition will focus on how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted on women’s rights and how we can create a more equal world postpandemic. ActionAid is asking students to write a speech on one of three topics. The choice of topics for the 2021 competition are: 1. The coronavirus pandemic is an opportunity to imagine a more equal and sustainable world, but we must act now. 2. With a shocking increase in violence against women and girls, the coronavirus pandemic has shown us that the struggle for gender equality is far from over. 3. The coronavirus pandemic has reminded us

of the importance of global solidarity and international aid. Siobhán McGee, CEO of ActionAid Ireland said: “Each year we get great feedback from participants to say that the competition led them to research and learn about new issues. This year young people entering the competition will have themselves dealt with a very challenging year due to the coronavirus pandemic. We hope that this competition will offer young people a chance to reflect on this experience while also considering what it would be like to live through a pandemic under different circumstances, and also think about what kind of future they would like in a post-pandemic world.” To enter, students can ask their teacher for details or visit https://actionaid. ie/speech-writingcompetition/ for more information.

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41,000 CHILDREN WAITING ON SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY Mark Ward T.D. has called on the immediate plan for children to access speech and language therapy after figures he received from the HSE that show 41,055 children waiting on some form of treatment . 14,288 children are waiting on an initial assessment Further figures show another 9,365 children waiting on initial therapy and a staggering 17,402 children waiting on further therapy.

said: “Since I was elected to represent the people of Dublin Mid-West, I have been inundated with calls from parents who are literally at their wits end with frustration in trying to get treatment for their children. “One area of treatment that arises constantly is speech and language therapy. I contacted the Minister for Health and the report that I received is shocking.

figures are particularly worrying in CHO7 which includes Deputy Ward’s area of Clondalkin, Lucan and Palmerstown which has 6,219 children waiting on treatment with 3,371 of these children waiting over a year. Deputy Ward

“The latest figures from the department shows that 41,055 children are waiting on some form of treatment. “14,288 children are waiting on initial assessment nationally. “Other figures show another 9,365 children waiting on initial therapy

2020 COUNCIL HOUSING ALLOCATION NUMBERS DEEPLY CONCERNING Recently co-opted Sinn Féin Councillor Derren Ó Brádaigh has expressed serious concern at what he described as stark figures, following a recent report delivered to councillors. Cllr Ó Brádaigh made the remarks following his first attendance at the final meeting of the year in December for the local area committee for Lucan-Palmerstown-North Clondalkin. Cllr Ó Brádaigh said: ‘Although I am very aware of the housing and homeless crisis and the enormous numbers on the housing waiting list, I was shocked on further inspection of the figures. A report for 2020 allocations taken at the end of September showed a South Dublin County Council wide total of only 369 allocations made. ‘Last year there were a total of 619 allocations. With the numbers on the waiting list standing at approximately 7,200, this was already taking an incredible 12 years to address the numbers. However, based upon the figures provided

this represents a 41% decrease compared to 2019. If this trend is allowed to continue, we would be looking at over an astonishing 19 years! And this is before even considering the influx of new entrants to the list. ‘The allocations were made up of primarily CBL (Choice Based Lettings) but included homeless / medical and OAP priority. The number of those successfully securing transfers to more suitable accommodation is also significantly down for the year to date by 53%. ‘Even if the indicated year end total target of approximately a further 100 allocations were met, following my question during the meeting, this still represents a 25% full year on year reduction and an equally still worrying trajectory toward a 16 years waiting period on the housing list should this trend become the norm. This is an unacceptable statistic and clearly evidences the need for a dramatic and urgent social housing build.’

and a staggering 17,402 children waiting on further therapy. “The figures are particularly worrying in CHO7 which includes my constituency area of Dublin Mid-West which has 6,219 children waiting on treatment with 3,371 of these children waiting over a year. “Nationally there are almost 2,000 children waiting over 2 years on either assessment, initial treatment or further treatment. In my own CHO area, which includes

Clondalkin, Lucan and Palmerstown there 3,371 children waiting over a year with 904 of these children waiting over two years. “Early intervention is critical to a child’s development. “For example, a young 6-year-old child could be waiting 2 years to get an initial assessment . The then 8-year-old child could they be waiting a further 2 years to just get some initial speech and language therapy. Finally, according to the

figures, they could be 10 or 11 before they receive the vital further treatment that they need “This is absolutely unacceptable. “Children are being moved from list to list and not getting the appropriate treatment at the appropriate time. This is having a severe impact on their development and is curtailing children’s future growth. “Covid cannot not be used as an excuse for the Government abandonment of children’s needs. These lists are the result of systemic

failures by successive governments. “In some areas, physiotherapists, occupational and speech and language therapists were redeployed as Covid swabbers and contact tracers, resulting in a complete loss in services.

raise funds that enable Concern to continue to alleviate poverty and hunger – which last year alone saw 28.6 million people reached in 24 countries. Its volunteers also include 500 people from towns who adjudicate at Concern’s national primary and secondary school debating competitions when students debate topical global issues. Concern was formed in 1968 as part of a major humanitarian response to the Biafran famine in Nigeria.

“It would have made more sense to use non-frontline staff or one of the more than 60,000 people who volunteered for “Ireland’s Call” to work as Covid swabbers and contact tracers,

DUBLIN FOOTBALLER MACAULEY RECEIVES CONCERN MEDAL Dublin footballer Michael Darragh Macauley has received his first nonsports related medal for his work as an ambassador with Irish humanitarian organisation Concern Worldwide. The seven-time All-Ireland medal winner was presented with his new piece of silverware for his “outstanding commitment” at Concern’s Dublin office ahead of its annual volunteer awards, which was hosted virtually on Saturday (December 5).

can going forward.”

Concern’s Chief Executive, Dominic MacSorley, praised the organisation’s many volunteers and thanked Michael Darragh for helping them raise awareness of their work in the world’s poorest countries. “As we face into a winter like no other, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Michael Darragh Macauley for his outstanding commitment to Concern,” he said.

profile to help Concern raise awareness of our work- whether it’s through conversations with children in Iraq forced to flee their home in Syria because of relentless warfare, or in the schools of Nairobi, Kenya where he channelled messages from his own pupils at Scoil Maelruain Junior in Tallaght. “Michael Darragh is a remarkable activist and we applaud him for all his charitable work both here in Ireland and overseas with Concern.”

Michael Darragh was one of 32 people from all over Ireland to be awarded by Concern for their volunteering efforts. The Ballyboden St. Enda’s player – who has visited Syrian refugees in Iraq and children living in slums in Kenya in his Concern ambassador role – said: “This was very unexpected, but I am delighted with it. “I am not sure how much I deserve it, but I’ll take whatever medals I can get these days! Seriously though, I’ve had huge grá for what Concern Worldwide do around the world.

“People know Michael as a remarkable footballer, but he is also a committed humanitarian. “He has creatively and compassionately used his

Concern’s Volunteer Awards  began in 2013 to  celebrate the vital contribution made by the organisation’s 1,700 volunteers in Ireland. Many

“I was an admirer before they asked me to get involved, and since being on board I have even more respect for the work they do with those less fortunate. “The experiences I have had with the people of Kenya and Iraq will be with me for a long time and I look forward to staying involved with Concern in any way I

More information about its work or how to support the aid agency can be found on its website at www. concern.net.

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TIME TO DELIVER FOR TAKEAWAY CYCLISTS

CYCLISTS and delivery workers for Deliveroo and Just Eat need to be made direct employees with guaranteed minimum working hours to ensure they have more certainty and entitlements, a Fine Gael Senator has said. Mary Seery-Kearney, has called for more protections for young workers in the socalled gig economy. “While food delivery cyclists have been a feature on our city’s

roads for the last number of years, they became a lifeline for many during lockdown and at various stages of Covid restrictions. “Cyclists for Deliveroo and Just Eat became essential workers, providing round the clock takeaway meals for people confined to their homes or locality. “The companies who they are working for must do more to recognise the invaluable work they have done for many years but especially

NOVENAS FOR LAURA LYNN 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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. E.B 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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. S.B 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. Special mention to the

United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. R.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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. A.R Prayer for healing Heavenly Father, I call on you right now in a very special way. It is through your power that I was created. Every breath I take, every morning that I wake, and every moment of every hour, I live under your power. Father, I ask you now to touch me with that same power. For if you created me from nothing you can certainly recreate me. Fill me with the healing power of your spirit. Cast out anything that should not be in me. Mend what is broken. Root out any damaged cells. Open any blocked arteries or veins and rebuild any damaged areas. Remove all inflammation and cleanse any infection.Let the warmth of your healing pass through my body to make new any unhealthy areas so that my body will function the way you created it to function. And Father, restore me to full health in mind and body so that I may serve you the rest of my life. I ask this through Christ Our Lord Amen. I.B

If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque (Minimum of €10 per prayer) 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 45 19 000 or email: info@newsgroup.ie.

during the pandemic,” Senator Seery-Kearney said.

Deliveroo fleet of cyclists are deemed to be selfemployed individual contractors, rather than employees with guaranteed hours and full entitlements. “It is important to note that the cyclists who cycle in every manner of weather and traffic conditions to provide us with that tasty curry or that appetizing burrito aren’t even earning a fixed wage. “Like all workers in the gig economy, they are classified as selfemployed and are paid per delivery, which can be as little as €3 per drop. “While this arrangement

lends itself to flexibility, which can be particularly attractive for students, it could also be deemed as exploitative.

“They are delivery personnel, without them the companies that engage them would not exist, yet they argue that they are not employees and so the companies don’t have to worry about the entitlements of the people working for them. “There is a significant element of risk involved in cycling in city traffic – under time pressure – especially during rush hour and in inclement weather. This system of remuneration

of considering them selfemployed and paid only per drop lends itself to taking shortcuts in safeguarding themselves in traffic in order to earn sufficient income during their shift. “I was shocked to hear that as well as the usual hazards, these delivery cyclists also spoke earlier this year of how they often face antisocial behaviour when delivering meals. “This is completely unacceptable, and we must do more to ensure these workers are adequately protected and entitled to a fair wage,” Senator SeeryKearney said. “It is not unreasonable they

would be considered as direct employees and not self-employed if we were to apply the reasoning of the uber decision made by the courts in London which found that taxi drivers were employees. “In the UK last month, Just Eat have said they will put their delivery drivers on hourly wages instead of having to compete for delivery jobs. They need to follow suit here in Ireland with guaranteed minimum working hours.” “It is time the companies making large sales, literally on the back of these delivery workers, gave them full employment and the protections they deserve,” she said.

CALL FOR SMALL BUSINESSES TO BE INCLUDED IN ENERGY TEMPORARY SUPPLY SUSPENSION SCHEME Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that the temporary Supply Suspension Scheme for non-domestic customers impacted by Covid-19 restrictions should be opened up again, saying that small and medium businesses who have been forced to close their doors to help in the fight against COVID should not be getting bills through the door for electricity and gas that they are not using. Teachta Crowe said: “Last year, there was a temporary Supply Suspension Scheme for certain non-domestic customers impacted by the strict COVID-19 restrictions we saw in April and May. This was intended to alleviate the pressures on small businesses by ensuring that qualifying customers would have no energy or network charges billed for their business premises supply point for the duration that the measure is in place. “It is my belief that this scheme should be reopened for small and medium businesses again. We do not know how long we will be forced to follow severe restrictions until we get COVID under control again. We cannot be waiting for the vaccine programme when small and medium businesses are already going to the wall on a daily basis.

“I am calling on the Government and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities to work with energy providers to help

businesses keep their costs down during this latest round of restrictions and lockdown. The end may well be in

sight but many small and medium businesses are struggling today and may not come out of the tunnel tomorrow.”

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g n i k o o c e Hom and baking

Kachilla

INDIAN STYLE CHICKEN CURRY

by Bal Krishna Shrestha Kachilla is the Nepalese way steak tartare is made with freshly chopped buffalo or lamb meat and Himalayan spices. Ingredients:

Method:

1. Chop fresh tender buffalo or lamb meat very finely and put into a mixing bowl.

600 gm raw tender buffalo/lamb meat 1 teaspoon chopped garlic 1 teaspoon chopped ginger 1 teaspoon ground chillies 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon shallot/red onion 200 ml mustard/olive oil 1 teaspoon fenugreek Salt to taste Â˝ teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon chopped green chillies 1 tablespoon chopped coriander

2. Add ginger, garlic, coriander, ground chilli, cumin, salt, shallot/red onion, green chillies and half of the oil into the meat and mix it well. 3. Heat the rest of oil in a frying pan, add fenugreek seeds and cook until dark brown. 4. Add ground turmeric into the heated oil and immediately pour over the meat mixture.

Ingredients:

Method:

- 2 chicken breasts - 1 onion - 1 yellow bell pepper - 50g unsalted cashew nuts - 1 tin coconut milk - 1 tin chopped tomatoes - 4 tablespoons of Greek yoghurt - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 garlic cloves crushed - Thumb size piece of ginger chopped - 1 chicken stockpot - 1 tsp garam masala - 1 tsp chilli powder - 1 tsp curry powder - 1 tsp tumeric - Handful of fresh coriander chopped

In blender/ food processor blitz the cashew nuts, then add coconut milk, tin tomatoes and greek yoghurt and blitz again. In pan fry chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, garlic and chopped ginger in olive oil. Once softened add the garam masala, chilli powder, curry powder and turmeric and turn to a medium heat. In second pan fry the chopped chicken breasts until cooked. Once cooked add the chicken to the other pan and mix well. Add the mix from the blender/ food processor into the pan. Give the mixture a good stir and leave on a low heat for 10 minutes. Add fresh Coriander.

5. Mix well until all the spices are combined.

Serve w ith r naan b ice or read.

6. Transfer to a clean bowl, Keep in the fridge for 30 minutes before eating 7. Serve with beaten rice or puff rice or any green salads.

Boiled Fruit Cake Homemade Leek and Potato Soup Ingredients:

- 500g Packet Mixed Fruit - 170g Soft Light Brown Sugar - 170g Butter - 1/2 Pint Water - 2 Eggs - 340g Self Raising Flour

Method: Put fruit, sugar, butter and water into a pot and simmer slowly for 20 Minutes. Allow to cool. Grease and line 8 inch tin and heat oven to 150c. Lightly beat the eggs and add to the fruit, stir in the flour. Transfer mixture into the prepared tin and bake for approximately 1 1/2 hours depending on your oven.

uary with n a J r u o y Start off healthy d n a k c i u ato a fresh, q k and pot e e l e d a homem crusty a h it w y o soup. Enj t on its s u j r o y t oas roll or a t own. Ingredients you need:

Method:

In a large saucepan place the oil and butter with the chopped onion and leek, cook till the vegetables are softened.

1 large leek 1 large onion 4 medium potatoes 1 vegetable stock pot / stock cube 1 knob of butter 1 tablespoon of oil 2 teaspoons of parsley (fresh / dried) Salt & Pepper to taste 2 tablespoons of cream Water

Then add the chopped potatoes and cook for three minutes. After three minutes, add the parsley, salt, pepper and the stock pot/ stock cube. Cover the pot contents with water and bring to the boil. Once the pot is boiling, turn down to a medium heat for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are soft. Use a hand blender to blitz until smooth. Add the cream to the pot and stir through.

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MOTORING LIFE WITH All-New Opel Corsa-e is Simply Electric By Breda Corrigan

There has never been a better time to discover the all-new Opel Corsa – the award-winning, and future-ready, German city car. Blending everyday driving fun with exciting big-car technology, the new Corsa is now available with a choice of petrol, diesel or 100% electric power plants. Elegant Electric Mobility; The new Opel Corsa-e offers state-of-theart electric mobility in its most elegant form. With subtle design touches and badging, and a range of 337km (according to the latest, strictest WLTP protocol), the all-new Corsa-e benefits from a whole host of technology features to ensure even more driving comfort and enjoyment, while producing no harmful emission in the process. From its expressive front end to its striking rear design, the new Corsa’s big personality emphasises the precision of outstanding German engineering. Possessing a dynamic character, bold exterior design and an eyecatching silhouette, the new Corsa has all the right ingredients to replicate the massive sales success of its predecessors throughout the years, while the option of adding a stylish black or white roof to your chosen exterior colour provides ultimate exclusivity. Integrated Battery; The battery is integrated into the chassis of the Corsa-e and sits below the front and rear seat rows in order to ensure a maximum amount of boot space. The battery pack is protected by special crash guards and is housed in a secure and fireproof encasing that is additionally cooled. The

EV dashboard cluster design in the Corsa-e comes complete with transparent and easy-to-understand vehicle data monitors that provide the driver with the best possible overview in order to easily achieve efficiency, and ensure maximum range. Regenerative Braking; The regenerative braking system in the Corsa-e enables the passive recovery of energy when in motion. The energy created by the resistance of the brakes against the drivetrain is utilised through the regenerative system and converted into DC voltage to partially recharge the battery. The car’s flow display shows the driver how much of the battery has been used up, and how and when, it is being charged from the regenerative braking system. Two Trims, One Power Unit; The new Opel Corsa-e is available in a choice of SC or Elite trim levels, with power supplied by a synchronous electric motor with a permanent magnet and a 50kWh lithium-ion battery for smooth, serene progress on the move. With 280Nm of instant torque, and 136bhp available, the Corsa-e can complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.1-seconds, on the way to a claimed top speed of 150km/h (where permitted). The 50 kWh battery can be fast-charged to 80 per cent of its capacity in 30 minutes, which means that the new Corsa-e is the fastest charging car in its market segment. A domestic 11kW wall box can add 100km of range in 90 minutes, while a 50kW public charger can provide the same range in 19 minutes, with a 100kW public charger

completing the task in just 12 minutes. With the new Corsa-e, simply plug and play for an electrifying, noise-free experience. Test Car; My Opel Corsa-e SC test car looked stunning in its Power Orange two-coat premium paint, which – along with Voltaic Blue two-coat metallic – is exclusively reserved for the Corsa-e. Key standard SC features include LED headlights with high beam assist, 16” bi-colour alloy wheels, aircon, cruise control with speed limiter, adjustable height driver’s seat, remote central locking, speed sign recognition, lane departure warning with lane assist functionality, driver drowsiness system, ABS, automatic emergency city braking, flat bottom steering wheel wrapped in leather, rear parking sensors, electric parking brake, keyless start, 7” colour touchscreen navigation, 7” digital driver information screen, and a Multimedia Infotainment system. On the road, the new Corsa-e possesses excellent body control and driving dynamics, while a specially tuned suspension (engineered to cope with the extra weight of the car’s batteries) ensures a comfortable ride quality every time. The cars steering has also been tweaked to cope with the extra weight, while the level of braking regeneration can be altered on the move via the drive selector. An instant rush of torque from the electric motor provides an air of confidence when overtaking slower moving traffic, while a strong brake pedal feel (especially with brake regeneration engaged) ensures stopping distances are easily controlled. The automatic transmission in the Corsa-e

is an all-electric single-speed drive unit, which is extremely user friendly in its functionality, while the driver can choose a driving mode (Normal, Eco and Sport) to suit their own driving style. Cabin & Boot Space; Cabin space within the new Corsa-e is identical to that on offer in its conventionally-powered siblings, while a standard 60:40 split-folding rear seat back allows the 309-litre boot space to expand to 1,118-litres when folded flat. Material quality throught the Corsa’s cabin is excellent, while comfortable seats provide just the right amount of support in all of the important areas. Verdict, Pricing & Warranty; Overall, the all-new Opel Corsa-e is a hugely significant principal entrant into Opel’s electrification process, and is a car that Opel’s designers and engineers can be very proud of. The car is packed with clever technology, is engaging to drive, simple to charge, and has a decent battery range. With the SC model priced at just €26,814 (inclusive of a VRT rebate and SEAI grant), it represents outstanding value for money too. The top-spec Elite model costs an additional €3,335 and offers exquisite luxury, with added features and technology on board. All Opel passenger cars come with a 3-year/100,000km warranty, while the Corsa-e also benefits from an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty (70% capacity). The amazing new Opel Corsa-e is on sale now, with stock ready for immediate delivery.

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LOTTIE RYAN TEAMS UP WITH TOYOTA LONG MILE Toyota Long Mile is delighted to announce Lottie Ryan as their newest Brand Ambassador. The talented radio presenter, Ryan captured the hearts of the Irish public earlier this year with some dazzling performances on RTE as Lottie won the fourth season of the Irish edition of Dancing with the Stars in 2020.

Lottie Ryan said, “I could not be happier to be a brand ambassador for Toyota Long Mile because for me the partnership just could not be a better fit. My first car and my only car was

a Toyota Yaris 2001 1.0, first generation, my dad bought it for me when I first passed my driving test.

It was a little blue Yaris and I’ve been driving it for more than 15 years now and I could just never get rid of her cause she was the perfect car. I even had an emotional connection with that car, I don’t know how I’m going to say goodbye!” She continued by describing how much she loves the All-New 4th Generation Yaris, “Driving the new 4th Generation Toyota Yaris is like being on a magic carpet! It is just the

smoothest drive, I feel like I’m in a spaceship compared to the car I had. All the technology, how far things have come since my last car just blows my mind. Being able to take a phonecall with the bluetooth on Apple CarPlay safely and being able to see where I’m reversing with the camera on screen all make such a difference.” Toyota Long Mile Managing Director, Alex Burns said, “We couldn’t have been happier when we found out Lottie was looking to upgrade her 2001 Yaris and it seemed like the perfect

chance for us to team up with such a talented young woman. We all know Toyotas are renowned for their reliability and longevity but nearly two decades on from

Lottie’s first car, we think she is much better suited to the All-New 4th Generation Yaris. We look forward to partnering with Lottie for many years as we watch her

career go from strength to strength.” Lottie Ryan is driving the All New 4th Generation Toyota Yaris.

BEST BUY CAR OF EUROPE 2021 The all-new SEAT Leon has been voted “AUTOBEST 2021”, the European accolade for the “Best Buy Car of Europe 2021”. The AUTOBEST jury is a panel of 31 judges made up of some of the most recognised automotive journalists from all over Europe. It’s the second time in SEAT’s 70 years of history that the company has taken the honour; in 2017 the SEAT Ateca took the same award. It highlights the dedication to developing vehicles that go beyond the ordinary and offer something truly exceptional in the market. “We are proud that our new SEAT Leon was elected “AUTOBEST 2021”, the best possible recognition for the team that was involved in the launch of the best Leon ever. A car designed, developed and produced in Barcelona, this award gives us renewed strength to look confidently into the future. The SEAT Leon has proven generation after generation that it’s an important pillar of the segment, and the award from the AUTOBEST judges reinforces the significance the Leon has in the market,” said Wayne Griffiths, President of SEAT and CUPRA. “It has brought the segment to a whole new level, mixing impressive design with technological advances to create a vehicle that provides everything customers need.”

The all-new SEAT Leon has an amazing track record, across all generations of the segment-defining vehicle, with more that 2.3 million units sold. The SEAT Leon has been a bestseller in Spain since 2014 and the introduction of the fourth-generation vehicle brought the best Leon ever to the market. The SEAT Leon’s success has been built on a €1.1 billion investment to help take it to the next level in terms of connectivity, efficiency, dynamism and safety, but also to prepare the vehicle’s production facilities, as for the very first time, it is available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, in addition to the other energies. The all-new SEAT Leon was designed and developed in Barcelona, to maintain its standing as not only a core pillar in the brand’s vehicle line-up, but also a standout vehicle in the segment. Greater levels of connectivity, making it truly part of our digital lives and the first fully connected car of the brand, a suite of new powertrain technologies; petrol (TSI), diesel (TDI), mild-hybrid (eTSI), and plug-in hybrid (e-HYBRID), giving drivers a vehicle that most closely matches their lifestyle and needs, and the integration of the most advanced driver assistance systems available, make the SEAT Leon one of the best in its category.

The advances to the all-new SEAT Leon in terms of connectivity, efficiency, performance and safety, recently proven by the five stars accomplished in the 2020 Euro NCAP, have been achieved, in part, thanks to the vehicle’s MQB Evo architecture, providing the toolkit required to develop a vehicle that meets the many and varied needs of SEAT’s customers.

most prestigious in Europe and has run consecutively since their inception in 2001.

The

Visit seat.ie for more information.

AUTOBEST

Award

among

the

The 31 journalists who make up the awarding panel had the possibility to test drive the range of SEAT Leon powertrains – including the plug-in hybrid version - during the final, celebrated in Austria at the beginning of November.

2020 NEW CAR REGISTRATIONS DOWN 25%

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry SIMI recently released their official new vehicle registrations statistics for 2020.

Total new car registrations for 2020, finished at 88,324 -25% down on 2019 (117,109). New Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) registrations in 2020 saw a decrease of 14.2% (21,732) compared to 2019 (25,336). While New Heavy Commercial Vehicle registrations (HGV) saw a decrease of 22.3% (2,066) in comparison to 2019 (2,659).

The hatchback remains Ireland’s top selling car body type of 2020. While grey is the top selling colour and has continued to keep that title for the past five years.

Other stats of note show a changing market place in 2020. Diesel accounted for 43.29%, Petrol 36.91%, Hybrid 11.86%, Electric 4.54%, and Plug-In Hybrid 2.78%. Diesel remains the most popular engine type, while hybrid, electric and plug-in hybrid gained market share in 2020.

Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting: “Like many other sectors, 2020 proved to be a very difficult year for the Irish Motor Industry. New car sales, already hampered in recent years due to Brexit, were down a further 25% due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and are now at recession levels. Looking to January, the key month for new car sales, the dramatic deterioration in the public health situation over the last few weeks and the implementation of Level 5 restrictions will make it another difficult period for the sector. Dealerships remain open for service, repair and testing, which are essential services, and the Industry will continue to play an important role in assisting emergency and essential services. Car sales will operate on a click and collect service with retailers increasing investment in their digital platforms to facilitate customers.

Manual transmissions (59.8%) continue to be more popular despite a decline in market share with automatic transmissions (40.09%) continuing to gaining in popularity.

In the current challenged business environment, it is vital that the current restrictions succeed in driving down the incidence of COVID so business and society can return to some level of normality.”

Imported Used Cars saw 79,969 registrations in 2020 a decrease of 29.8% on 2019 (113,926). 4,013 new electric cars were registered in 2020 in comparison to 3,444 in 2019.

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