Tallaght News 18.09.17 by Newsgroup

18th September 2017

€600K TO IMPROVE LOCAL SOCIAL HOUSING FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

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“Funding will allow for house extensions and improvements”

South Dublin County Council is receiving Government support to allow for €600,000 in Disabled Persons Grants for improvements to its social housing , according to Dublin South West Independent TD and Children’s Minister, Katherine Zappone. Minister Zappone says 90% of the funding will come from Government

with the remainder coming from the Council. Improvements covered by the scheme include grab rails, disabled access ramps and wet rooms. Grants can also be used for home extensions where there is overcrowding. Welcoming the announcement Minister Zappone added: “South Dublin County

Council has been one of the most successful in securing funding for the grant scheme. Now it is important that people enjoy the benefits as soon as possible. The grants allow for improvements and extensions to local social housing. One significant development in the scheme is that extensions to owned houses are being

allowed, where the occupant is approved for social housing. This will help ease the housing strain in local communities. Planning and progress on some of the works under the scheme is already underway – as the Council were told to proceed with spending up to 65% of funding received last year. Now the total has been agreed even more improvements can happen. This funding will allow many people with disabilities to live at home, in the company of family, friends and neighbours. They will remain part of the community and will be able to live in safety and comfort. I am asking the Council to ensure that all people with disabilities are made aware of the support which is available. In addition I welcome the commitment of Minister Eoghan Murphy to keep the level of funding under review and to make more available if required.”

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COUNCILS REJECT OVER 1,800 HOMES OFFERED FOR SOCIAL HOUSING

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

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Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Dublin John Lahart has revealed that over 1,800 houses and apartments, repossessed by banks and other financial institutions, have been offered to local authorities for use as social housing. However, councils have only accepted 241 of them. Under the initiative, a total of 1,860 repossessed properties have been offered to the Housing Agency. It then provides a list of these available properties to local authorities, who confirm whether or not they have ‘demand’ to use them as social housing and whether or not they can then be sold ‘at cost’ to Approved Housing Bodies. Deputy Lahart said, “The rejection of such a large number of houses and apartments by local authorities shows the dysfunction at the heart of social and affordable housing policy. At a time when fewer than 400

social homes were built by councils nationwide in 2016, it’s preposterous that local authorities are turning down over 1,800 units. “What’s even more worrying is the fact that despite the housing crisis being most acute in Dublin, not one of the local authorities in the Greater Dublin area completed a single social housing unit in the first quarter of this year. “There is anecdotal evidence that one of the main reasons that local authorities are refusing these units is because of policy directives from the Department of Housing which aim to prevent an overconcentration of social housing in any one area. However, these guidelines need to be more flexible in the context of the current housing emergency; otherwise any sort of progress will be curtailed. “Local authorities should also be given the freedom to acquire properties from financial institutions or

NAMA and use them as they see fit, rather than being stymied by rigid Departmental rules. If they were given more leeway we could see some of these idle units used for social housing, while others could be rented out. As it stands at the moment, councils’ hands are tied by the Department.

“Council executives need to be trusted with greater autonomy and more responsibility and held accountable if they do not deliver. “There should also be a review carried out by Department, and made public, about why so many of these properties were turned down”.

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SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL BLEEPERBIKE PROJECT LAUNCH

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South Dublin County Council are delighted to launch this short term Bike Rental Scheme on a Pilot Basis in Clondalkin, Tallaght, and Rathfarnham, with further locations in Lucan and Templeogue to be rolled out shortly. Bleeperbike is a bike sharing service to fulfil short trips conveniently, anytime, anywhere, by combining innovation and today’s IoT (Internet of Things) technology. Bleeperbike is green, reduces congestion, and continually strives to improve quality of life. As with the GoCar Pilot Project South Dublin County Council are extremely happy to be involved with this project and hope it will be beneficial to all our residents and visitors to the County. Pictured are (l-r)Sean O’Hara, Eddie Taaffe, Tony O’Grady, Laura Leonard all SDCC, Daniel McLoughlin CE SDCC, Mayor Paul Gogarty, John Mills, Barry Clark all BleeperBike, Hugh Cooney CEO BleeperBike

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Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has described the current hospital waiting list system, made up of over 650,000 patients awaiting life changing operations, as cruel and obviously not delivering for these patients in a fast or efficient manner. The number of people on waiting lists in Tallaght Hospital alone increased by 198 in August, leaving the total number at 27,181. The Sinn Féin TD called for a complete overhaul of the system including the introduction of an integrated IT system that would help achieve shorter waiting times by actively transferring patients to hospitals that have space and have the ability and the skills to offer a service in a reasonable timescale. Deputy Crowe said:“Over 650,000 people, enough people to fill 9 Croke Park’s stadiums, are currently waiting on life changing operations in the Irish health service. Behind every patient is a personal

story, many are in pain or discomfort, and depending on their ailment and their location, they could be waiting either months or years for their treatment. “According to the latest figures in Tallaght Hospital alone there are 27,181 on waiting lists, a figure which increased by 198 in August. This is clearly not acceptable. “Sinn Féin believes that in order to successfully tackle the long waiting list crisis in the Irish health system a new model is needed to maximise the capacity of the public hospital system, alongside the introduction of strategic management across all waiting lists. “An integrated IT system would also help to achieve shorter wait times by actively transferring those on the list from hospitals that are failing to meet the target to hospitals that have the ability and the skills necessary to offer the service in a reasonable timescale.

“Under this updated and more efficient system, patients would see increased funding for hospitals which would be directly linked to reducing public waiting lists, providing a clear incentive to treat more patients.

“We believe that this policy is the best strategy to tackle the lengthening waiting lists and would help transform the current system that is clearing not delivering the quality service that our citizens require and deserve.”

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SOUTH DUBLIN HOMEOWNERS MUST NOT BE GARDA BREATH-TEST SCANDAL UNFAIRLY PUNISHED BY PROPERTY TAX REVALUATION STRIKES DUBLIN WEST AREA Local Fianna Fáil TD, John Curran TD has said that there is power vested in Government to deliver full accountability on the findings of the report conducted by Assistant Garda Commissioner, Michael O’Sullivan. The investigative report into the false recording of breath-tests on An Garda Síochana’s Pulse System, indicates that the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) Western, which covers the west of the city including Blanchardstown, Clondalkin and Lucan has been found to have exaggerated figures of breath-tests by 373%. This is the second highest rate in the country. Deputy Curran commented, “These damning findings show that we now have a very significant problem on our hands. “As presented, these findings would constitute one of the most damaging episodes in the Gardaí’s long and distinguished history. We need to call it out for the scandal that it is. “An Garda Síochána provide an invaluable service in our community but public trust and confidence in the processes and procedures around Garda oversight has been shaken by these revelations. It’s clear that there are significant challenges at management level which need to be addressed. “I believe that decisive action must be taken to implement real reform and cultural change in An Garda Síochána. Therefore there must be a consequence for this dishonesty and there must be meaningful accountability within the force. “Any politician that would attempt to gloss over these findings is doing a serious disservice to the public and the longer term interests of the Gardaí.

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Chair of the Budgetary Oversight Committee, Fine Gael Deputy Josepha Madigan, said solutions will have to be found for concerns that rising property prices in south Dublin will lead to home owners being hit disproportionately with the Local Property Tax. Deputy Madigan said: “The Local Property Tax has been a priority of mine throughout my time as a public representative. I voted to retain the 15% reduction for Dún Laoghaire Rathdown when I was a Councillor and I raised the

issue in my very first speech in Dáil Éireann in April 2016. “I will ensure property tax is a priority for discussion at the Fine Gael Think In. “I raised this concern at last year’s Think In and this year I will again work hard with my Ministerial colleagues- as well as the wider parliamentary partyto come up with solutions to the issue . “I will make it clear to my colleagues that this must be dealt with as a matter of urgency. Ideally I would like to have a solution in place before the Budget, but if

this is not possible then certainly shortly thereafter. “While Local Property Tax rates are currently frozen at 2013 property values, a revaluation is due in 2019. Property values have risen considerably since 2013 and continue to do so. Unless changes are made to how Local Property Tax rates are calculated, property owners could be in for a significant increase in 2019. “CSO figures note that South Dublin house prices, including those in my constituency of Dublin Rathdown, have recently risen at a faster rate that

the rest of Dublin. “Daft.ie figures consistently show that South Dublin property is already priced higher than the rest of the country. This raises a significant concern that South Dublin property owners will be hit with a disproportionately high property tax bill once properties are revalued in 2019. “I will continue to highlight the concerns of my constituents- and people all around the capitalregarding property tax and ensure a solution is found.”

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LOCAL BUSINESSES CAN ACCESS FUNDING SUPPORTS “Innovation and Competitive funds providing €1.2m to small firms”

Local small businesses have an opportunity to get a slice of over €1.2m in funding being made available by Enterprise Ireland to promote innovation and competitiveness, according to Dublin South West TD and Independent Minister Katherine Zappone. Both funds represent an opportunity for those small firms which form the backbone of the economy in Citywest, Tallaght and Rathfarnham to get extra support. It is through such efforts that our communities remain not only a home of ground breaking development but also a source of good jobs. Welcoming the Enterprise Ireland Funds Minister Zappone added: “Small firms deserve the support of Government. They keep our economy moving and are often the launch pad for new ideas. I welcome the announcement of two national funds by Enterprise Ireland to support this work

and am encouraging our local business people to see if the supports can help them grow. · A €750,000 Competitive Start Fund is aimed at companies which are just starting. There is a special focus on those operating in the areas of Agricultural, Manufacturing, Lifesciences and Renewables. The closing date is Wednesday 27th September. · €500,000 is being made available to link small firms with public bodies to complete important projects. These include ways to ensure wildlife does not interfere with safety at Dublin Airport, solutions to combat illegal dumping including in the South Dublin County Council area and improvements to Irish Rails Bridges to prevent them being hit by trucks. I know we have the knowledge, expertise and skills in our communities to respond to these calls. Innovation, research and

development as well as competitiveness are key if we are to have a vibrant business community which can deliver real benefits for the entire community. Full details of the funds are available at www.enterpriseireland.com”

Dublin South West TD and Independent Minister Katherine Zappone

RIGHTS IN THEIR EYES - AN EXHIBITION OF WORKS BY THE WINNERS OF THE 63RD TEXACO CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION

The Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, opened Rights in their Eyes an exhibition of works by the winners of the 63rd Texaco Children’s Art Competition at the Royal Hibernian Academy, Dublin. Rights in their Eyes is a collection of works reflecting children’s rights in Ireland as seen by the young artists. These works will be used throughout the year as the Ombudsman from Children’s Office celebrates 25 years since Ireland ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Speaking ahead of the launch Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon said “These art pieces give a snapshot of how the young people

view children’s rights today. The images range from family to play to the stress children feel in their everyday lives. “This year is a time to consider not only the progress that has been made in the area of children’s rights but also the work still to be done.” Pic shows ( l to r ) Méabh Scahill, age 14, Amy Zhao, age 12 Westmeath, James Wellwood, age 17 Kilkenny, Noah James Flynn, age 7 Galway, The Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, Eibhlín Murphy, age 6, Cork, Ava Henson, age 11 Dublin and Lucy Deegan, age 17 Laois. PIC: (MAXWELLPHOTOGRAPHY.IE)

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DEANSRATH SCHOOL JUNIOR CERT RESULTS

THERE SHOULD BE NO RETURN TO SUB-STANDARD BEDSIT ACCOMMODATION Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD has stated that advocates of a return to bedsit type accommodation are being dishonest about the impact of a return to this type of accommodation. Deputy Ó Broin said: “The return of the bedsit would undoubtedly be a retrograde step by Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy. The reality is that this type of accommodation is predominantly used by vulnerable families and individuals. Low income families, migrants, people with mental health issues and those with complex needs would end up being trapped for long periods of time in substandard, cramped bedsit type accommodation. “In a positive move, bedsits were outlawed four years ago, while at the same time Fine Gael and Labour slashed social housing budgets and local authority budgets. Despite the ban, this type of accommodation hasn’t gone away. I know of many families and individuals living in sub-standard bedsits in my own constituency. “Bedsits are not the solution to the housing crisis. Anybody who claims that these bedsits will be subject to stringent inspections isn’t living in the real world. The reality is local authorities do not have the resources to conduct the inspections required due to funding cuts by central government. “The solutions to housing crisis do not rest with lifting the ban on bad accommodation. The solution is the provision of secure, affordable and good quality accommodation, which the government as clearly not yet managed to grasp.”

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SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL LAUNCHES A NEW PLAN TO DELIVER 8,000 NEW HOMES AT THE CLONBURRIS STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT ZONE

On Friday 22nd September 2017 Mayor Paul Gogarty will officially launch on public display, the Clonburris Strategic Development Zone – Draft Planning Scheme. The Planning Scheme, will guide the future growth of the SDZ lands, located at the heart of South Dublin County. A six week public consultation period relating to the Draft Planning Scheme, will take place between Friday 22nd September and Friday 3rd November. More information is available at the dedicated SDZ website: www. clonburris.ie A new community is being planned for South Dublin County, on the lands that make up the Clonburris Strategic Development Zone. The SDZ lands, comprising approximately 280 hectares, are located between the established

communities of Lucan, Clondalkin and Liffey Valley. The lands have been designated by the Government as a Major Urban Housing Development Site and South Dublin County Council is confident that the Clonburris SDZ will have a central role to play in addressing the demand for new housing in Dublin. The Draft Planning Scheme for the SDZ lands, aims to achieve a shared outlook for the future development of the new community at Clonburris. The scale and potential of the SDZ lands, together with existing unique selling points, which include the Grand Canal, Griffeen Valley Park, and the Kildare rail line, offer an excellent starting point for the development of a forward thinking, innovative and vibrant community in South Dublin County. The Scheme will include the

provision of three primary and three post primary and approximately 98% of residents will be able to access a bus stop within 400m or a train station within 800m, thereby significantly reducing dependence on the private car. The lands will be serviced by two Train stations at Kishoge and Clondalkin/Fonthill, approximately a 15 minute train journey from Dublin City Centre. The lands are also well connected to the N4 and N7 National Routes by three Regional Roads, including the Outer Ring Road. Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council has stated, ‘The co-ordinated development of the lands at Clonburris represents an opportunity for South Dublin County to directly respond to the demand for

new housing in Dublin. The Draft Planning Scheme for the Strategic Development Zone will allow the construction of housing in close coordination with the delivery of public transport infrastructure, schools, community facilities, parks, retail and employment related development”. With regard to the launch

of the public consultation process for the Draft Planning Scheme, Mayor Paul Gogarty has stated, ‘The success of the Clonburris Strategic Development Zone depends on the active participation of communities, businesses, residents and members of the public. I encourage all interested parties and

the public to engage in this public consultation process, in particular through the dedicated website: www. clonburris.ie , where a range of information is available and from which online submissions can be made’. Clonburris: A new community. A new way of living.

Dublin Senator Catherine Noone has called for an increase in the VAT on sunbed sessions.

sunscreen. “The concept of sunbed sessions coming under the category of ‘care of the human body’ is beyond ridiculous. There is strong scientific evidence of the link between skin cancer and sunbed use. In 2009, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified sunbeds as ‘carcinogenic’ to humans, in the same category as plutonium and tobacco.

by The Irish Cancer Society shows that 150,000 people in Ireland used a sunbed in the last year, with 36,000 of them using a sunbed once a week. Moreover, the survey revealed a worrying increase in the volume of young people using sunbeds.

VAT ON SUNBED SESSIONS NEEDS TO BE INCREASED

Senator Noone said: “Under the VAT Consolidation Act 2010 - sunbed sessions are currently allocated a reduced VAT rate as it is deemed a service consisting of ‘care of the human body’. It is ranked alongside beauty treatments, yoga and nail salons – while paradoxically, the standard 23% VAT rate is applied to

“A recent IPSOS MRBI poll

“As such, I am strongly support The Irish Cancer Society’s call to increase the VAT rate on sunbed sessions from 13.5% to the standard VAT rate of 23% in Budget 2018.”

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MESSINES AND PASSCHENDAELE: THE SOUTH DUBLIN PERSPECTIVE Exhibition at County Library, Tallaght, 4th – 29th September 2017 After the Battle of the Somme, the campaigns of the Great War continued to take their toll on South Dublin County. To mark the centenary of two of the most decisive battles to take place after the Somme, South Dublin Libraries presents this exhibition based on thirteen men from the county who were killed in Belgium during these iconic battles of the Great War. One was killed at

Messines, twelve perished at the Third Battle of Ypres. The Battle of Messines was considered a successful offensive of the Great War mainly due to the muchimproved accuracy of British Artillery, and the extensive use of underground mines. In all, 19 were detonated under the German defences at the Messines Ridge causing extensive damage. In Irish terms, it was also

the first battle where Unionists and Nationalists fought together against a common foe. Among their number was the only known Messines casualty from the South Dublin County area – a Tallaght man – William (Billy) Barrett who spent his early years living in Tallaght Village. His mother ran a pub which was then called Barrett’s. The premises still exists as the Dragon Inn, and is virtually unchanged

since then. The Third Battle of Ypres, also known as Passchendaele, lasted from the 31st of July to the 10th of November 1917. The battle was characterised by persistent mud and heavy losses. The Allies sustained over 320,000 casualties, while German losses were between 260,000 and 400,000. Twelve men who were born or lived in South Dublin

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Daniel Brady and Robert Christopher Butler (Rathcoole), James O’Toole (Templeogue), John Nolan (Saggart), Joseph Redmond, Richard Rodgers and Thomas McCann (Rathfarnham), Thomas Stoney (Tallaght), John Monahan and William Carroll (Lucan), Ralph Mulligan and Richard Rumgay (Clondalkin). Their life stories are detailed on panels illustrated with newspaper cuttings, photographs and contemporary documents. Earlier census returns from 1901 show them as small boys still at school. The occupations of their fathers include an RIC pensioner, an army pensioner, a dairy farmer and general

labourers. Speaking about the exhibition, David Power of South Dublin Libraries Local Studies Section, said “If these men were to return and walk around our county’s villages again, the surroundings would no doubt be very familiar to them. Their streets are our streets.” This exhibition reclaims their memory, presenting their stories in an accessible way. The exhibition runs at the County Library, Tallaght until 29th September during library opening hours. Guided tours of the exhibition will be available on Culture Night, Friday 22nd September from 5:00 – 8:00 pm.

One of the exhibits at The Messines and Passchendaele exhibition at the County Library, Tallaght.

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THIS MAKES THE BRAND NEW LAUNCH OF 3 BEDROOM HOMES AT KILHEALE MANOR, KILL VILLAGE, CO.KILDARE A VIEWING NECESSITY Cavan Developments invite you to the official launch of their New Three Bedroom Concrete Built Homes at Kilheale Manor, Hartwell Road in Kill Village this Saturday and Sunday from 11 - 13.00. Nestled away nicely between Rathcoole and Naas, it is located a 15-minute drive from the Red Cow roundabout and with the Luas line extending out as far as Citywest, it leaves another public transport artery available on route into the City Centre. A new large modern primary school has opened in Kill catering for both boys and girls and secondary schools are easily accessible with private bus operators servicing both Rathcoole & Naas schools also. These New Homes are designed with the modern purchaser in mind, with features such as stylish fitted kitchens with Breakfast Bar/Island unit and all appliances included. The option to

Walk-in Wardrobe

choose a Larger Sitting Room with large LCD TV depending on taste and Master Bedroom with En-Suite and Walk in Wardrobe leaves plenty to grab the attention. While the large rear gardens are a feature in themselves nowadays, the front gardens finish it off with cobblelock paving providing parking for up to 2 cars. There are also no management fees on this development which can come as a welcome relief to perspective purchasers in these current times. All houses are “A” rated with Photo Voltaic panels coming as standard reducing your overall energy bills considerably. Kitchen, Bathroom, EnSuite walls and floors all have extensive tiling with very high quality porcelain ceramic tiles coming as standard. High quality wardrobes and fireplaces also come as standard, with heated towel rail and large

Buyers have the option to choose a Larger Sitting Room with large LCD TV depending on taste shower in En-Suite, while the Bathroom comes fully fitted with toilets, wash hand basin and a rectangluar bath to add the finishing touch.

Superior Sound Proofing is an integral part of Cavan Developments build and this is emphasised more than anywhere else on the party wall.

Cavan Developments homes are built with reducing maintenance on the exterior in mind and with PVC Fascia and soffit and the walls being brick and dry dashed, this goes a long way to emphasising that point.

Cavan Developments is an Award winning builder that have a tradition for quality and expertise and are building new homes for over 35 years.

Kill is a friendly, traditional, country village situated on the N7 and just fifteen minutes from the Red Cow and M50. Commuting to Dublin couldn’t be easier by car

or bus. Prices of 3 bedroom MidTownhouse €290,000. 3 bedroom EndTownhouse €315,000. 3 bedroom semidetatched €349,000.

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The Master Bedroom with En-Suite and Walk in Wardrobe leaves plenty to grab the attention.

e-mail sales@cavandev.ie MMWard Auctioneers 045 856640 www.cavandevelopments.com Cavan Developments 045 878108.

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NEW JUNIOR CYCLE SPECIFICATIONS FOR IRISH, MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND VISUAL ART LAUNCHED IN CLONDALKIN SECONDARY SCHOOL New Irish Syllabus Puts Big Focus on Spoken Language

Local TD and Tánaiste, Frances Fitzgerald TD welcomed the new Junior Cycle specifications for Irish, Modern Foreign Languages and Visual Art and the introduction of the new Junior Cycle Wellbeing programme. The Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD visited Coláiste Bríde, Clondalkin to mark the occasion. Speaking about the new specifications launched Fitzgerald commented; “The strengthening of Irish is a core goal of the Government’s 20 year strategy on the Irish Language. The introduction of new specifications for Junior Cycle Irish represents a significant change from existing approaches to the teaching, learning and assessment of Irish at junior cycle level. “The new Junior Cycle specifications for Irish will place a strong focus on the spoken language. Emphasis will be put on Irish as the language of learning and communication in

classrooms as well as an emphasis on the skills required to communicate effectively with other users of the language. C o m m u n i c a t i o n , opportunities for use and interaction are central to classroom tasks. It is particularly pertinent that this new specifications are being launched here in Clondalkin, which has a strong community of Gaeilgeoirí based around Aras Chronain. “The new Junior Cycle gives students better learning opportunities, and rewards and recognises non-academic performance and achievements, with a central focus on the student’s quality of life, wellbeing and mental health. “My colleagues and I in Government are strongly committed to implementing the actions in the 20Year Strategy for Irish and the Gaeltacht Education Strategy, the first ever strategy for Gaeltacht Education which was

launched last year. The new specifications which are being launched here today will encourage and promote more spoken Irish in the home, school and community. “A central part of being the best is our ability to support our students with the skills to be global citizens, to understand other cultures and societies, as well as the skills to function and thrive in the modern economy. The study of modern foreign languages enables students to develop these skills and their enjoyment of these languages. “Through practical engagement in the areas of art, craft and design students will develop selfconfidence, inquisitiveness, imagination, and creativity. They will also develop authentic, real-world problem-solving capacities and the capacity to work over time, as an individual and in groups, on the design and execution of artistic and aesthetic tasks. “Student mental health

and wellbeing are key goals in the Government’s Action Plan for Education. The wellbeing programme will include learning opportunities to enhance the physical, mental, emotional and social well-

being of students. It will enable students to build life skills and develop a strong sense of connectedness to their school and to their community. “As local TD, I know that Coláiste Bríde has a strong

track record of promoting wellbeing amongst students. It is now important that all students throughout the country will have the opportunity of partaking in a wellbeing programme from this September.”

The Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD visited Coláiste Bríde, Clondalkin to mark the occasion of the new Junior Cycle specifications for Irish, Modern Foreign Languages and Visual Art

€99 €20 wk

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NEWS FROM TALLAGHT DRUG & ALCOHOL TASK FORCE (TDATF) We hope this update finds you all keeping well and enjoying the last of the summer. We are continuing our support for and promotion of the Crimestoppers campaign. You may have seen some of our posters in your local area, we have placed 200 posters on lampposts throughout our area of Tallaght & Whitechurch and they’re creating much discussion which we’re delighted about. We’re also promoting use of the line on our Facebook page, Website and various media sources including Tallaght News! We are asking people once again to use the Crimestoppers line to report any incidents of drug dealing and / or drug related crime, including intimidation. Ph. 1800 25 00 25 If you have any information, however small, on drug dealing or related crime, please make the call! - It’s completely safe and confidential. Together we can help make our communities safer and a happier place to live in.

TALLAGHT DRUG & ALCOHOL TASK FORCE ARE RECRUITING NEW COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES Are you frustrated by drugs or drug related crime in your area? Do you think you could represent the voice and needs of your community? Do you have a view on drug / alcohol misuse and related issues? If interested, please come to our information evening on Thursday October 5th in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght from 7.30pm. The meeting will provide an opportunity: • To learn more about the work of our Task Force • To talk to our current community reps and get an idea of what the role might entail, including supports available • To meet interested community people, just like you over a cuppa and some nibbles.

Tallaght Drug & Alcohol Task Force in conjunction with South Dublin County Council, would like to invite you to our Alcohol Seminar, “Alcohol & Youth,

Promoting Healthier Choices” This event will be held on Wednesday 20th September 10 am – 1.00 pm in Tallaght Stadium This event is part of South Dublin County Council’s Health & Well being week. Guest speakers will include Dr, Bobby Smyth, Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychologist, Olympic Silver Medallist, Cllr. Kenneth Egan and MMA star and Tallaght native, Paddy Holohan Free tickets for the event can be booked at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alcoholyouth-promoting-healthier-choices-tickets-37599414862

Or just call Fiona Murphy on 087 274 2129 For information on drugs and their effects go to: www.drugs.ie

For more information on any aspects of the work of TDATF, please feel free to contact us: Grace Hill, Task Force Co-ordinator: ph. 464 9303 or email: grace.hill@sdcpartnership.ie Fiona Murphy, Alcohol Development Worker: ph. 464 9300 or email fiona.murphy@sdcpartnership.ie Gráinne O’ Kane, Rehabilitation Co-ordinator: ph. 464 9307 or email grainne.okane@sdcpartnership.ie Tallaght Drug & Alcohol Task Force South Dublin County Partnership Block 3, County Hall Belgard Square North Tallaght, Dublin 24. Ph. 01 464 9303 Web: http://www.tallaghtdatf.ie/ f: https://www.facebook.com/tallaghtdrugandalcoholtaskforce

Grace Hill, Co-ordinator

Tallaght Drug & Alcohol Task Force South Dublin County Partnership Block 3, County Hall, Belgard Square North Tallaght, Dublin 24.

Ph. 01 464 9303

E: grace.hill@sdcpartnership.ie Web: http://www.tallaghtdatf.ie/ f: https://www.facebook.com/tallaghtdrugandalcoholtaskforce

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IT TALLAGHT CRÉCHE TO CONTINUE SERVING STUDENTS AND STAFF Créche facilities at IT Tallaght will resume on 18th September in

time for the new term, according to Dublin South West Independent TD and

Children’s Minister, Dr Katherine Zappone. Minister Zappone says the

news will come as a huge relief to many – including the 30-students and 14-staff

FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL

which have been using the crèche.

urgent issue which needed a fast solution.

As a result of the breakthrough there will be no break in service. Minister Zappone added: “We are changing childcare forever. In the South Dublin County Council area alone we have this summer provided €500,000 to providers for extra places and improved services.

We worked closely with the South Dublin County Childcare Committee, the management at IT Tallaght as well as the provider and Pobal to secure this solution. Much of this work over many weeks was carried out behind the scenes and away from the public spotlight. As a result families using the services of the crèche will not only enjoy the continuation of their service but will also have access to the big improvements we are making in the whole area of childcare.

Despite this important step I was keenly aware that uncertainty over the crèche at IT Tallaght was causing concern for children and parents alike. Ensuring the continuation of service was my top priority. My Department and my full time constituency office in Tallaght treated this as an

Lily Finnerty, Scoil Aoife

Jade O’Connor, Scoil Santain

As Minister and the local Independent TD I want to acknowledge the hard work of all.”

Kelly Bros Ltd Building Contractors. Est.30 years

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THE 4-STAR WESTGROVE HOTEL IN THE PICTURESQUE VILLAGE OF CLANE IS ONE OF KILDARE’S PREMIER WEDDING VENUES The Westgrove Hotel offers you everything in one place a superb setting, luxurious facilities including a Leisure Club, Spa Haven, award winning cuisine, personalised and professional support along with a ‘can do’ attitude. For those all important photographs there are an array of fabulous photographic locations nearby such as Abbeylands Friary which is adjacent to the hotel, Clongowes Wood, Donadea Forest Park, the Japanese Gardens to name but a few….the perfect experience for you and your guests. The Westgrove Hotel has two main wedding suites the O Connell Suite and the Alexandra Suite both of which have a private bar, dance floor and both are adorned with natural day light. In addition to the suite for the main celebration, there are also many other areas in the hotel which form an integral part of the day such as the grand staircase which proves popular for photographs. On arrival, guests enjoy exclusive use of the chic Cigar Bar which opens onto the rooftop terrace and links to the Wedding Garden while enjoying the sounds of the resident pianist as your sip your champagne and mingle with your family and friends. Our Wedding Garden is the perfect backdrop for photographs, outdoor ceremonies and next day BBQ’s. The Onyx Bar has also played host to many of the wedding celebrations at the Westgrove Hotel. From the more intimate wedding to the larger gathering, our suites offer excellent choice for so many couples. The Westgrove Hotel only cater for one wedding on any day, as we believe that your wedding day should be yours alone. For further information email our Wedding Team weddings@westgrovehotel.com or phone (045) 98 99 08

SCAR FACE BARBERS IN RUSSELL SQUARE S.C., TALLAGHT ANNOUNCED AS NEW SPONSOR OF JOBSTOWN CELTIC U9’S Ernesto Barberroo owner of Scar Face Barbers was recently presented by the team with a framed jersey which now has pride of place in the barber shop. Paul commented, “We are so delighted Ernesto of Scar Face Barbers is supporting a local team in the community”. Pictured: Callum, Dylan, Kaylee, Liam, Ben, Joel Conor, Cian, Dylan, Anthony, Paul, Daniel, Ryan, Josh & Adam Also pictured are Paul Warner, Hugh Farrelly, Oliver Curran and the barber Ernesto Barberroo

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MAKE TRACKS TO SHELBOURNE PARK FOR THE BOYLESPORTS IRISH GREYHOUND DERBY FINAL

The highlight event of the Irish Greyhound Racing Calendar takes place at Shelbourne Park on Saturday 23rd September when six of the fastest greyhounds in training will go to traps in their quest to lift the €150,000 winner’s cheque and title of winner of the 2017 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby adding their name to the illustrious list of previous Derby Classic winners stretching back to 1932 when Guidless Joe recorded his name in the annals of greyhound racing history. Doors at this year’s BoyleSports Derby Final day will open at 4pm and from the moment you step into the Dublin 4 venue live music and buzzing bars will greet you with an eclectic mix of patrons from around the world gathering in anticipation of a superb night’s entertainment. The first of a bumper 13 race programme goes to traps at 7.15pm with the feature race the BoyleSports Irish Derby Final race 8 on a night that never fails to deliver. Patrick Flynn Sales, Operations & Commercial Manager Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium commented “ BoyleSports Derby Final Night is the culmination of six fantastic week’s of racing at the venue and this year is the centre piece of our inaugural Festival Of Racing which see’s the first round heats of the Sporting Press Micro Dog ID Irish Oaks on Thursday 21st and the Dublin Coach Juvenile Derby starting on Friday 22nd making it three prestigious classic events offering a total prize fund in excess of well over €400,000. We would like to thank BoyleSports who are sponsoring the Derby for the 4th consecutive year and have once again shown their commitment to supporting Irish Sport” Irish Greyhound Derby Day provides something for everyone Irish Greyhound Derby Day provides something for everyone from the seasoned greyhound follower to the social attendee looking to enjoy a day at one of Ireland’s leading sporting occasions and the renowned Derby roar as the runners go to traps for the feature event of the night will live long in the memory. General Admission on the day is €20 for adults and €10 for O.A.P’s/Students with great value Group Packages available for parties of 10+. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult are free. Three day pre-paid Festival Ticket Available at Only €30 Added attractions on the day are a best dressed Lady Competition offering a fantastic winners prize which includes a 2 day hotel break, shopping voucher and VIP

The first of a bumper 13 race programme goes to traps at 7.15pm with the feature race the BoyleSports Irish Derby Final race 8 on a night that never fails to deliver.

night at Shelbourne Park. In addition There will be several other novelty activities throughout the stadium both before and during racing ensuring Derby Final Day is a fun filled occasion for all in attendance. For further information including free bus transfers provided by Dublin Coach to the venue check out www. shelbourneparkgreyhoundstadium.ie or call the IGB National Sales Centre on 061 448080 The hare is running. Don’t miss out on one of the events of the year in Dublin The Final Of The BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby #BoyleSportsIGD Shelbourne Park Saturday 23rd September

Added attractions on the day are a best dressed Lady Competition

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SEA FISHING EVENT HOSTED FOR KILLINARDEN YOUTHS IN WICKLOW A sea fishing event was hosted on Saturday, 26th August 2017 by Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Dublin Angling Initiative on Arklow`s South Beach in Co. Wicklow. The Sean McMorrow Memorial Sea Fishing Day, which was aimed at furthering the skills of sea fishing was attended by 24 youths from the Killinarden Angling Initiative and run on the day by the Wicklowbased project, Fishing Futures. Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Dublin Angling Initiative aims to promote, develop and improve angling in the Greater Dublin Area through educational fishing courses for young people. This event was one of several being hosted by Inland Fisheries Ireland over the summer months. The Sean McMorrow Memorial Sea Fishing Day was held in memory of Sean McMorrow, a former General Manager of Inland Fisheries Ireland and this event was kindly supported by his family. Fishing was steady

throughout the day with some good size fish landed including flounder, plaice, dogfish and bass! The young anglers also enjoyed a provided lunch at the venue. Participants were tutored in casting, bait presentation, types of bait and the safe handling and return of fish. At the conclusion of the event, the Sean McMorrow

Memorial Trophy was presented to Conor & Eoin O`Neill who displayed great skill and focus at catching fish throughout the day. Suzanne Campion, Head of Business Development at Inland Fisheries Ireland, said: “The Sean McMorrow Memorial Sea Fishing Day was a great success and a fitting tribute to our former colleague and friend, a

Members of the Angling Initiative

person who recognised the importance of engaging the next generation around the pursuit of angling. The novice anglers showed great skill and ability and we hope that they consider taking up fishing into the future.” Oisin Cahill, Co-ordinator of Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Dublin Angling Initiative said: “The Dublin Angling Initiative aims to empower

young people to enjoy angling and to appreciate the importance of conservation and protection. The combination of theoretical and practical lessons proves to be popular and we are delighted to be hosting a number of educational initiatives and courses over the next few weeks.” Anyone

interested

learning more about the Dublin Angling Initiative should contact Oisin Cahill, Dublin Angling Initiative Coordinator, at Inland Fisheries Ireland (E: oisin. cahill@fisheriesireland.ie ) Enquiries are welcome from any groups or individuals interested in the programme and availability will be on a first-come, first -served basis.

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FIRE SAFETY BREACHES FOUND IN NEW PRIMARY SCHOOLS UNACCEPTABLE Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has described breaches found in fire safety at a number of new primary schools across the State as unacceptable and bordering on criminal neglect. A recent fire safety audit commissioned by the Department of Education found breaches of fire safety standards at five newly built primary schools in Dublin, Wicklow, and in Mullingar in Westmeath. The Sinn Féin TD said that it was inconceivable that a new school should be in breach of fire regulations and blamed the breaches on a ‘cheap is better’ approach by the Department of Education. Deputy Seán Crowe: “It is simply inconceivable and deeply worrying that parents and their children are facing into a new school year against a backdrop of breaches in fire safety regulations at schools. Five new primary schools located in Dublin, Wicklow and Westmeath were found to have been in breach of fire

regulations and now require significant structural improvements just to make them safe. “Significant improvements we are told must now be made to fire safety standards in the primary schools with a row breaking out between the Department of Education and some of the developers who claim they were to be built purely on a temporary basis. “Many critics of the Education Department have suggested that a significant part of problem with their new building programme has been its tendering policy, were legitimate builders are overlooked when it comes to new schools and were a ‘cheap is better’ approach seems to dominate. The mounting criticism is that they seem to favour a cheap and quick delivery model that comes with sharp working practices, including nonunion, low wage workers being forced to adopt the self-employed model, as

well as poor poor working conditions. “This latest scandal should act as a wakeup call for the Minister for the Education and his Department. We need to be building schools that will stand the test of time not temporary unsafe thrown up imitations. “It is absolutely crucial that standards are set high and adequately met. Renovation works to make these schools safe must begin as a matter of urgency. The pupils and staff of all schools need to be fully protected and their safety ensured at whatever cost. “The Department of Education needs to change its head in the sand approach and clarify the extent of their knowledge regarding poor quality building standards in schools and centres of education built across the State. “The cheap, quick and poorly built model needs to be scrapped and a new approach enacted when it comes to building new schools.”

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EDUCATION IS NOW MORE AFFORDABLE FROM €1 A DAY

With the rising job market and the fall in unemployment there is no better time to consider building new job skills. More skills can increase job prospects and lead to higher

income. The Irish Institute for Management Development (IIMD) is now providing their 300 + course library on a monthly

LYNK TAXIS FINALISES THREE CRUCIAL MERGERS IN DUBLIN

Continuing rapid growth, Lynk have acquired three leading Dublin firms, adding over 200 drivers to their fleet September 8th 2017: Lynk, Dublin’s taxi app, have finalised three key acquisitions across Dublin, rapidly expanding their reach for customers and further cementing them as one of the biggest players in the Irish taxi industry. Lynk has merged with prominent Lucan based firm, Penny Cabs, as well as one of the largest firms in North Dublin, Exchequers, and boutique firm, Tallaght Express. All three firms are long established and have loyal local customer bases in their respective communities, which is why they are the perfect fit for Lynk, whose core offering is the highest quality local service. Merging with the

respected firms will further expand Lynk’s availability across Dublin, meaning even more availability of drivers through their unique app, phone and online booking technology. The ethos for Lynk is to offer their technology and solid infrastructure to more Irish drivers, enhancing their offering for consumers and drivers alike. The series of mergers will see over 200 new drivers added to Lynk’s Dublin fleet, enhancing their city-wide availability for customers. These mergers are just some of many that Lynk are finalising in the coming months as part of their ongoing expansion in both Dublin and nationwide. Additionally it allows these drivers city wide use of the app, allowing them to generate more work for themselves and to increase their personal income.

Noel Ebbs, CEO of Lynk said “We’re really pleased to and Tallaght Express fully in to the fold at Lynk. We have been working with these firms and drivers for years and we have all seen the benefit of working together, so to be fully merged is a great success for us. As always our focus is to offer local people the best possible service and drivers the best opportunity and fairest system to make a good living, making these mergers a great achievement on all counts. The mergers are just one of many exciting developments happening for Lynk in the coming months, we’re taking our technology and service to a never before seen level, so watch this space.”

For more information or to download the app go to www.lynk.ie

payment basis with no fixed contract. According to IIMD CEO Fran Dalton” Whilst the job market is improving, wage increases will be in the order of 1-2% annually over the next 5 years. Accordingly significant wage increases can only come from promotion or moving jobs”. The tightening job market with employers finding it hard to get the right staff presents an opportunity for those career minded people who want to take advantage of the market and move to higher paid jobs. As Fran explains “many jobs require specific academic qualification, however for those in employment it is usually the ability to manage people and situations, commonly referred to as “Soft Skills” which makes them stand out for promotion.” IIMD provide training in all those key skills together with Microsoft Office, Photoshop and other computer skills. One of the problems with looking to upskill is the risk and cost of finding the right course. That’s why IIMD have launched a monthly payment plan at €29.95 +vat (€36.83) which can be cancelled at any time. Each member receives access to all 300+ courses to start increasing their job prospects and once they have gained the skills they need they can leave. Their initial risk is the first month’s payment after that it’s month to month. You can get full details of the courses at www. knowledgelab.ie or telephone 0831526813

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TEL: 01 451 9000 email: info@newsgroup.ie

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THERE WILL BE MORE SETANTA TYPE FAILURES WITH THE CURRENT EU INSURANCE REGIME IN PLACE Brian Hayes MEP said that the lack of proper supervision for companies like Setanta insurance that operate on a cross-border basis in the EU will lead to more insurance company failures in Ireland if the EU insurance regime is not improved. “We are bound to have more Setanta type insurance company failures with the current EU insurance rules that are in place. When a company that offers insurance on a crossborder basis, like Setanta did, there are 3 regulators involved in supervision – the home country regulator, the host country regulator and the European supervisory authority EIOPA. Yet the division of supervisory tasks is flawed and gives too

much control to the home country regulator. “In the case of Setanta insurance, the Central Bank of Ireland did not have enough tools at its disposal to ensure that the company was properly solvent and that Irish consumers were adequately protected. The Maltese regulator had sole responsibility for ensuring the solvency of Setanta insurance, even though Setanta conducted most of its trading in Ireland and all its consumers were Irish. The Central Bank of Ireland had no role or power to take action against Setanta for any solvency problems and was not able to properly investigate the solvency position of Setanta. “At the same time, EIOPA, the European supervisory authority for insurance

firms has little or no power to get involved when there are risks of insurance company failures. All EIOPA can do is recommend best practices and arrange good collaboration between national regulators. “We need a strengthened role for EIOPA to be able to intervene when they detect risks in insurance companies that offer crossborder business. There needs to be a strengthened role for the host country regulator to be able to address solvency problems to protect consumers. The Central Bank of Ireland should be able to properly monitor any non-Irish insurance company that offers products to Irish consumers. It should be equipped with the right

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tools to ensure that such companies are financially viable and should be able to take action if it detects breaches to EU solvency requirements. “If we get more of these Setanta-type failures, the more car insurance premiums could rise for motorists. The government should be committed to preventing any of these failures from happening and working at a European level to ensure that supervision tools are improved. “Last year an insurance company called Gable Insurance AG, a Lichtenstein-based insurance company, went bankrupt. It was selling insurance products in various countries including Ireland, the UK, Germany, Sweden and Denmark. The failure of the company led to huge losses for homeowners and businesses all over Europe. If we don’t get the EU supervisory framework for insurance right, painful bankruptcies will keep happening.”

DAILY PE CLASSES SHOULD BE MADE MANDATORY IN ALL SCHOOLS A Fine Gael Senator is calling for the mandatory introduction of daily PE classes in all schools across the country. Senator Catherine Noone said: “We all know the positive effects of exercise, regular physical activity helps children build healthy bodies and prevent chronic disease. “I have previously called for the introduction of mandatory PE classes in schools, lasting 30 minutes per day. Adopting this measure will have a real and lasting impact on the health of our nation and its people. “One on four Irish children is obese, with a massive 80% of all Irish children not getting the recommended amount of physical activity for school aged children. “A recent study into cardiovascular treatment across EU member states has found that while the Irish healthcare system provides good services; poor health practises among individuals, over a number of areas have left Ireland’s population at risk of serious medical conditions. “The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that children and adolescents should get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day, this is met by just 12% of 12-18 year olds. “The costs of an inactive lifestyle are manifold, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and cancer all have links to poor exercise habits. “However, by enacting the right measures now; we can avoid the significant complications that lay ahead. Providing safe areas for young people to play and exercise in, such as parks and community playgrounds free from air pollution, are practical measures that can be taken. “However, a more tangible method of ensuring that children and young people are engaging in physical activity is to increase the number mandatory PE classes in schools,” Senator Noone said.

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Caoimhe and Éabha Make Magic on New RTÉjr Show abraKIDabra

ARE YOU READY FOR WINTER?

Residental ● Commercial ● Industrial

Tallaght twins Caoimhe and Éabha de Búrca are taking part in a brand new magic show on RTÉjr. abraKIDabra is made by Macalla Teoranta and gives kids from all over the country the chance to learn and perform magic tricks with Ireland’s top magician Joe Daly. Caoimhe and Éabha went to the The Ark, cultural centre for children in Dublin’s Temple Bar to film the series with other kids from all over Ireland aged between 5 and 9 years. In every episode, funny man Joe Daly will perform and teach magic to kids in the theatre and at home. In our ‘Put On a Show’ segment, some kids from the audience get up onstage alongside Joe to perform their new magic tricks for their peers. Our budding magicians at home will also be encouraged to get involved when

Joe takes them to his workshop in the ‘Teach a Trick’ segment. Our audience will learn everything from how to make water disappear to how to balance a deck of cards and most importantly… how to make money multiply!!! Joe Daly in one of the best magicians Ireland has to offer and in abraKIDabra, he performs a modern magic show with a twist. Young audiences all over the country love his colourful magic tricks intertwined with his funny slapstick humour. Speaking about his involvement with abraKIDabra Joe says: “I had an amazing time making abraKIDabra. The kids involved were fantastic. Their energy and enthusiasm was infectious. I’m delighted that children at home are going to get the chance to see my magic show & learn how the tricks are done. I hope it inspires them to become young magicians!”

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The Legal Column

Romaine Scally, Solicitor Question: My daughter has asked me to go Guarantor on her mortgage and although I would like to do it, I do have some reservations. She is desperately keen to get a foot on the property ladder but cannot secure a mortgage without a Guarantor. She has a good job and is a very responsible person. However, I would appreciate if you give some general advice as to going Guarantor. Answer: There is no doubt but that parents have over the years come under increasing pressure to help their children secure a foot on the property ladder. The Lenders do take advantage of this and, will try to secure a Guarantor for a first time borrower if the ratio of loan to value is anyway ‘tight’. Whereas in every case the intentions of the parents are the very

best in offering themselves as Guarantors, the reality is that in the long term, it may not be a good idea not only for the Guarantors, but also for the borrowers. Going Guarantor for anybody is a serious commitment. Effectively, you are putting all your assets on the line up to the amount of the guarantee. In most cases, this is the full extent of the mortgage together with any arrears, accrued interest and penalty charges. If you have a Family Home that you own with your Spouse then, that will be at risk if the mortgage were to fall into arrears and the bank were to sue on foot of those arrears. Any parent offering to go as Guarantor for their child would have to discuss this with their Spouse and ensure at the very least, that both spouses are in agreement and are fully aware of the risks involved. As you say, your daughter has a good job and is a responsible person. I have no doubt that this is the case. However, circumstances can change through no fault of anyone’s. Your daughter could lose her job or be made redundant. This would put her under servere pressure in terms of paying her mortgage and if arrears build up the Lender would look to you to discharge those arrears. Remember that in many ways, you would be a safer bet than your daughter in terms of being pursued for arrears. Your daughter could decide to work abroad and the house could easily slip into negative equity. You on the other hand are tied to your own commitments and property here in Ireland and may indeed have already discharged the bulk if not all of your own mortgage. Therefore, you are

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

TEL 01 4599 506

FAX 01 4599 510

far more likely to be sued successfully than your daughter and believe me, the Lenders would have no hesitation in doing so. On the other hand, if you are not a Guarantor and not exposed to all the financial risks of so doing then, you would probably be in a better position to help your daughter financially through any difficult times. Remember that if there is no Guarantor then the Bank can only pursue your daughter and try to sell the house. If you go as Guarantor the bank can decide to only sue you because you would be an easy ‘mark’. They would be more likely to come to an arrangement with your daughter in circumstances where she might have little or nothing to offer them, then they would be if they see you as somebody who has plenty of money to pay for arrears and penalty interest charges. Therefore, in my opinion, it should be an absolute last resort to consider going as Guarantor. Your daughter should shop around to see what Lender will offer her the mortgage without a Guarantor and if necessary perhaps she should wait however long it takes to ensure that the mortgage can be taken out without the necessity for a Guarantor. Apart from the financial implications, it can lead to fraught relationships within a family not only between the Borrower and Guarantor, but also between Guarantor and Spouse because other assets have been put at risk. We would urge extreme caution in this regard. Question: My daughter wants me to go as Guarantor on her mortgage. I

email: legal@scally.ie

am anxious to help but want to limit the terms of the guarantee. Are any of the Banks prepared to do this? Answer: The answer to your question is that this is always a matter for negotiation. The Bank will listen to any reasonable proposal and will obviously take into account the loan, the loan to value ratio, the value of the property, your daughter’s income and expenditure and other relevant matters. Whereas we never recommend family members to go as Guarantor (see earlier question) nonetheless, if you are adamant that you wish to proceed and have discussed it with your spouse and explained the risks to your own assets then, you should limit the guarantor as much as you can. You could for example offer to go Guarantor for the first year only of her mortgage or at most two years. If such a limited proposal is acceptable to the Lender then you will need to take the proposal to a Solicitor to ensure that the conditions are written into the term of the guarantee. It has happened in many instances where Guarantors have genuinely believed that they were not committed for the duration of the mortgage, only to find that there is nothing in writing to prove this. If you are successful in limiting the terms of the guarantee, then you must ensure that you take legal advice and consider the precise wording of the guarantee to ensure that what you have agreed is written into the terms of same. We wish you the best of luck.

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

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QUARTER OF IRISH HOLIDAY-GOERS REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION WHILE ABROAD

In response to an AA Travel Insurance survey of over 5,000 Irish holiday-goers, 24.21% of respondents stated that they had required medical attention while abroad on at least one occasion. Meanwhile, a further 27.23% of those surveyed stated that they had to seek medical assistance due to an injury or illness suffered by someone in their travelling party. “While the summer season may be behind us that doesn’t mean that the holiday season is over for everyone, as interest in short city breaks and winter

getaways will start to peak in the coming weeks and months. For shorter breaks away it can be tempting to go without travel insurance, but if you weigh up the cost of cover compared to the potential medical costs you could encounter it really makes no sense to go abroad without insurance in place,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “Whenever we go abroad we all hope for a relaxing getaway but unfortunately things do go wrong, from unexpected hospital trips to lost baggage. Having travel insurance in place will at

TALLAGHT MAINTAINS HIGH STANDING IN ANTI-LITTER LEAGUE “Findings a tribute to community groups, volunteers and South Dublin County Council”

The fact that Tallaght has maintained its high standing in the latest Irish Business Against Litter survey is a tribute to the hard work of local community groups, volunteers and South Dublin County Council, according to Dublin South West Independent Minister Katherine Zappone. Tallaght has once again been found to be ‘clean to European norm’ and is ranked 22nd in Ireland keeping up the improvement in the last survey at the start of the year. Minister Zappone says the Government has a role to play in ensuring that the efforts of local people and the council are given every possible support. Minister Zappone added: “While there is a lot of hard work and dedication by community groups across Tallaght there can be no room for complacency. The reality is that illegal

dumping remains a threat to our many fantastic green areas and parks in the South Dublin County Council area. I remain in close contact with my colleague the Minister for Climate Change, Denis Naughten, to see how we can ensure that both the council and local groups have the resources to combat fly tipping and dumping. We have spoken about the need for increased use of new technology including CCTV and drones, in particular in those local communities with back roads and little passing traffic. Local groups must also continue to have access to funding to support their work. Huge progress has been made. Now we must ensure that standards are not only maintained but improved even further and Government has a role to make that happen.”

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least provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re covered if anything goes wrong. “If you are looking for a way to keep your travel insurance costs down, however, opting for annual cover instead of purchasing

a single-trip policy for each visit abroad can help you with that. On average, if you travel abroad more than twice in any 12 month period then opting for a year round policy will best match your needs.” The survey almost found

that over 1 in three Irish people have had their baggage lost or delayed when travelling abroad. 36.55% of respondents stated they their bags had either been lost or delayed for a significant period of time during a previous

holiday.

Earlier this year a report from AA Ireland found that 1 in 4 Irish people had been forced to cancel a holiday shortly before departure due to a last-minute emergency.

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OSTEOPOROSIS CLINIC IRELAND

Osteoporosis Clinic Ireland has been developed to assist people with or predisposed to bone health issues. Susan Boland, Nutritional Therapist & Karen Byrne, Registered General Nurse are bringing the clinic around the country to facilitate our clients. We work with a local

Physiotherapist in each area & where possible all follow up consultations will be with the same Physiotherapist. A program of recommended visits includes: Initial consultation with follow ups at 3 months/6months/12

months/18 months, followed by your 2 yearly DXA scan.

Telephone consultations are available to review and update your nutritional status. At your first appointment, which lasts approximately an hour & a half, you will see Susan our Nutritional Therapist who will tailor a nutritional protocol to your specific needs for your bone health, general health & gut health & recommend any supplements you may require. A copy of your nutritional protocol will be given to you on the day. Karen our Nurse will do an ultrasound bone density scan, which is carried out on the wrist & shin & gives an osteoporosis risk index. The result is given immediately and a copy is given to you. This scan is carried out 6 monthly to monitor your progress with our program between your 2 yearly DXA scans. She will also review your previous DXA scan & explain the results to you, if you have had one. You will also see our Physiotherapist who will give you exercises to help improve your bone density, balance and posture. This is also done on a one to one basis according to your lifestyle & level of activity. You will be given a copy of these exercises. Bone Health Workshopsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commencing Wednesday 4th 2017 October at our Dublin Clinic from 11am for 5 consecutive weeks. These workshops aim to provide practical treatment, education and an eating guide to supply your body and bones with the fuel they need to maximize your bone density. Contact: Susan: 086-8580500 Karen: 087-2360877 E-Mail: info@osteoporosisclinicireland.com Website: www. osteoporosisclinicireland.com Osteoporosis Clinic Ireland OsteoClinicIRL

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Dear Editor,

CELEBRATING HOSPICE DAY

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Being fully informed and able to give informed consent is a fundamental issue and basic right when considering taking any kind of prescribed drug. That said, it is questionable whether those being prescribed antidepressants are being fully informed and the long list of side effects and thus are not making an informed choice. Here’s the problem — figures recently released showed that 391,603 medical card holders were prescribed antidepressants in 2016. This represents an increase of 50,000 in the space of five years. The burning question however is how many of these consumers were informed about the effects of antidepressants? Figures released by the HSE to the Citizen Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), revealed what this means in terms of prescribing. In 2016, some 712,758 prescription items for antidepressants were written in Co Dublin alone. While we might hope for an altruistic purpose in this prescribing practice, there is an inescapable factor that cannot be ignored. Profit. Since the year 2000 the number of prescribed drugs consumed in Ireland soared from 32m to 73.5m items in 2015. While this may represent commercial success for manufacturers, it can be a

nightmare for those who have to pick up the pieces and exercise damage control when things go wrong. Worldwide, there have been 99 drug regulatory agency warnings regarding antidepressants. Of those warnings, 35 concerned suicide, suicide risk, and suicide attempts. There have also been 119 studies in 12 countries on antidepressant-induced side effects. Of those studies, 23 concerned antidepressants causing suicide, suicide risks and suicide attempts. How many of the consumers know this? Psychiatrists and drug companies commonly say benefits outweigh the risks. Perhaps it would be more accurate to say that when it comes to psychiatric drugs, profits outweigh the risks. At the end of the day, a person must be allowed to make a fully informed choice about the consequences of taking antidepressants. If that happened, it could have a knock-on effect and save the HSE billions in unnecessary spending. Alex Bonassi Citizens Commission on Human Rights Ireland, PO Box 12827, Dublin 2

Pictured at Our Lady’s Hospice in Harolds Cross celebrating Hospice Day were Sean Crowe TD, John Lahart TD, John Curran TD and Councillor Charlie O’Connor

“SILENCE DOES NOT TAKE AWAY FROM THE FACT THAT GOD HAS ASKED US TO SPEAK TRUTH TO ONE ANOTHER AND TO DO GOOD FOR OTHERS” I broke the boring silence in the waiting room of my local garage by asking another

customer, if he used his van for deliveries. In a sad tone he told me, yes, but

his business had gone into decline recently and he had fallen on hard-times.

CHURCH OF CHRIST Knocklyon

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Sunday Worship 10am – 11.15am Bible Study 11.30 am – 12 noon Wednesday Bible Study 7.30pm – 8.30pm

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Feeling uncomfortable he wanted to take himself out of the spotlight, so he asked me, “What do you work at?” I told him, “I was a preacher for a church in Knocklyon. He responded politely, “Are there many interested in what you are doing?” I replied, “Generally speaking, there is a lot of apathy and hostility towards religion, so people are cautious about discussing religious topics. I believe there are a number of reasons for that: 1) the prevalence of an ‘eat, drink and be merry,’ culture. 2) Clergy abuses and scandals which have caused more than a few people to lose faith. But that said, the majority of people are still holding on to the customs in births, communions, confirmations, marriages, deaths and the indispensible parties afterwards.” Overhearing this conversation the garage owner came out from behind the counter, proclaiming loudly, “I’m not interested in organized religion. I do not believe in the church anymore. I just live my life as best I can!” I

quietly

said

the

customer sitting beside me, “Is that not an example of the hostility towards religion I have been talking about” At that point, the customer was called out to get his van. Because I had to leave my car for minor repairs, the garage owner who is thoughtful and kind, gave me a lift back to my work place. In his van, he brought up some of his reasons for rejecting religion. He talked about the confessional, “How can anyone tell a priest their sins when he has worse sins in his own life?!” He looked at me, “Steve,“ he said, “I look around the world and see terrible things happening. Just look at the religious groups in the Middle East killing and maiming each other in the name of God. The image of terrorists strapping a seven year old boy with explosives is horrifying to me. How can God let these things happen?” I said, “Friend, God has given man free will, and God cannot take it back just because some people misuse their free will by doing wicked things. These people choose to do dangerous and destructive things, in defiance of God’s will. So the blame for wickedness

belongs not to God, but to the selfish people who will have their own way; no matter what the cost in human suffering.” We were getting near the church building, when He went on to say, “I have tried in my life and in my business not to lie but to do good for others.” So I asked him, “On reflection, do you think you were stupid doing the good you have done and not lying?” He emphatically said, “No!” So I probed further, “Is it right then for God to ask us to speak truth and to do good to others?” He started to change the subject. I stopped him by saying, “You are not listening to my question; is it right for God to ask us not to lie and for us to do good for others?” Just then the car stopped at the gate of the church building. I waited momentarily for a reply, but the garage owner (who is a nice man) gave me no answer. His silence does not take away from the fact that God has asked us to speak truth to one another and to do good for others. Is it right then for you or anyone else to completely ignore the implications in that request? By Steve Kearney.

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FURTHER EDUCATION DAY COURSES EVER THOUGHT ABOUT A CAREER IN COMPUTERS???

WHAT ABOUT: ● An internationally recognised qualification (QQI) ● No tuition fees or examination fees ● All books and stationery supplied free of charge ● Places still available on our Level 5 and Level 6 Computer ● Systems and Networks courses starting shortly.

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GOVERNMENT SHOULD LEGISLATE FOR RAINY DAY FUND

Brian Hayes MEP said that the government should put in place the Rainy Day Fund by way of legislation through the Houses of the Oireachtas.

“The best way to ensure the success of a Rainy Day Fund would be to establish it by way of legislation. This would give it the stamp of approval from the Dáil and Seanad and would ensure that the Fund has a long-term horizon beyond the current and next government. Legislation would show that Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are truly committed to putting money aside for the long-term. “We should follow the path of the National Pension Reserve Fund (NPRF) which was established through an Act of the Oireachtas in 2000. The Exchequer contributed 1% of GNP annually to the NPRF which built up a significant buffer for Ireland and was very much needed during the financial crisis. Before the NPRF was used to recapitalise the banks, it was worth €23 billion. “We should be looking to build up similar levels with the Rainy Day Fund. The government has set out its plan for the first three years of the Rainy Day Fund, whereby €500 million would be contributed to the fund annually from 2019-2021. After this period, I believe the amounts could be higher. A sensible option for the Rainy Day

Cork

Fund would be to link the contributions to the level of growth - for instance, when we have a high level of annual growth, the contributions would be larger. “Whatever the contributions, the best way of establishing this Fund is through legislation. The legislation should set out how the Fund would operate, who manages the fund, the investment policy of the Fund and several other issues. “The Rainy Day Fund will provide a vital safeguard for our economy. As the Fiscal Advisory Council said, it is one of the ‘most effective measures available to any government to prevent a boom-bust cycle.’ It also will help us deal with the potentially massive pension liability coming down the tracks. People are living longer and demographics are changing; therefore we need to have ‘piggy bank money’ in place to have enough future pension reserves. “But the upmost priority for the government must be achieving a balanced budget by 2018. If we achieve a balanced budget by next year, then we will have reached our Medium Term Objective under the Fiscal rules - meaning that there are far less restrictions on our spending levels as we will no longer be running a deficit. We will be freer to invest in things like housing and infrastructure. So balancing the books is vital.”

Starts Sat. 9th September

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Starts Sat. 16th September

Galway

Starts Fri.. 22nd September

Dublin (P/T)

Starts Sat. 23rd September

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KILLINARDEN COMMUNITY SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Tuesday September 26th from 5-7 pm Tours of the School will be provided and displays will showcase subjects and Courses provided, extra curricular activities will also feature. Contact information, Killinarden Community School, Tallaght Dublin 24, Phone 01 4527447 Email: mainoffice@killinardencs.ie www.killinardencs.ie

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NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. P.M. MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.B. C.M. 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.I.R. MIRACLE PRAYER Dear As our regular readers will know we have asked for your generosity in supporting very worthy charities over the years. Going forward, we are delighted to support Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice. 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..R.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..N.L.. LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice provides palliative care to children with lifelimiting conditions and their families, from the point of diagnosis to end of life, and throughout bereavement.Our holistic approach ensures we support the whole family through a unique care plan that may include: symptom management; planned short hospice stays (respite); unplanned hospice stays (emergency care); end of life care; music & play therapy; psychological & bereavement support; Social Work and Chaplaincy. All care is provided free to families. Care can be availed of in the hospice, at hospital, in the community, or in the family home, depending on the child and family’s preference. It costs €5.2million to keep LauraLynn’s Children’s Hospice open, €3.5million of which must be generated each year through fundraised income. Approximately 3,840 children with a lifelimiting condition are living in Ireland today,

with close to 700 needing the specialised care provided by LauraLynn. Tragically, close to 350 children with a lifelimiting illness die each year, most within their first year of life. Since opening in 2011, LauraLynn has cared for more than 325 children and their families and provided more than 265,000 hours of short stay care provided to children in LauraLynn Hospice. For further information please visit

lauralynn.ie. If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque made out to Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to: NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. If you require any further information please call 01 4519000 or email info@newsgroup. ie.

Close to 700 children need the specialised care provided by LauraLynn

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