31st May 2021
ELDERLY HOSPITAL PATIENTS AWAITING DISCHARGE MUST BE ALLOWED VISITORS Senator Mary Seery Kearney has recently called for an amendment to hospital restrictions on visitors to patients who are awaiting discharge dependent upon the provision of homecare packages. Senator Kearney said, “A large number of patients have been admitted to hospital over the past year, some with Covid, many of whom are
elderly, infirm or with early stage dementia. While they are no longer suffering from whatever condition obliged their admittance into hospital, their discharge is contingent upon homecare supports being put in place to support their independent or supported living at home. “These people need to be facilitated to
return home as soon as possible. It is preferable that their home care provisions are expedited as quickly as possible, but where there are delays it is not reasonable for these vulnerable patients to be denied visitors. Many are unable to use their mobile phones, either through infirmity or incapacity, and so their wellbeing is being affected by the disconnect from their
families. “I raised this matter in the Seanad as I believe urgent action is needed. I am calling on the Minister for Health to issue instructions to hospitals to facilitate visitors to this discrete group of patients, along the same lines as nursing home visits. A system of passes could be administered to this group to facilitate a weekly visit by family members until such time as their discharge. This would not affect the general arrangements in place for hospitals, but would make a significant difference to the well-being of these patients. “Seanad Leader Regina Doherty responded in support of my call and agreed to write to the Minister on behalf of the Seanad requesting special provisions for these hospital patients. “We cannot leave the most vulnerable behind, this group must be catered for,” concluded Senator Seery Kearney.
Tallaght Stone Centre headstones crafted for all cemeteries
Tel: (01) 462 6200 Fax: (01) 462 6209 email: info@tallaghtstonecentre.ie web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie
Our Comprehensive Services Include:
♦ headstones ♦ inscriptions ♦ renovations ♦ chippings ♦ re-lettering ♦ counter tops ♦ house names ♦ granite estate signs
Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24.
We are NO longer on
Telephone: 01 459 0820 01 459 0850
www.newsgroup.ie
02
PALMERSTOWN COUNCILLOR DRIVEN AROUND THE BEND At the May meeting of South Dublin County Council, one Independent County Councillor Alan Hayes, who represents Palmerstown, Lucan and North Clondalkin has welcomed some of the changes brought about due to elected members doing what they are elected to do, representing their constituents.
He has particularly welcomed the inclusion of 30 minutes free parking, no increase in permit rates for residents and allowing resident permits to be used on the Old Lucan Road in Palmerstown Village. Councillor Hayes said, “The parking meter system in the County pays for itself,
it was never designed to generate a profit and it is there to ensure an equity of use in public parking spaces throughout the county by ensuring that people don’t park all day and take the bus to town but also to ensure that small businesses can still attract customers, something that is increasingly difficult with free parking in large shopping centres.” Councillor Hayes tabled two amendments to the draft plan that was presented by council management. One to ensure that no increase in parking permits was lumped on residents and to ensure that residents permits could be used on the main street
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 Distributed by: Local Post Co. Contact Details: Website www.newsgroup.ie
Printed by: Meath Chronicle Email: info@newsgroup.ie
Founder: John Russell Advertising: Anthony Russell anthony@newsgroup.ie Administration: Sarah Brooks admin@newsgroup.ie
in Palmerstown instead of the Council plan that would have seen only pay and display and commercial permits being allowed. Councillor Hayes said, “There is a balance to be struck between the needs of residents and those
of businesses. Many of the older houses have no driveways and no space for them either, so to deny those residents, some of whose families are here over a hundred years, the chance to park near their own home would be disproportionate and
unnecessary. It is enough to drive you around the bend”
“The original council proposal was to increase the cost of a resident permit from €20 to €60, the council halved that to €30 and ultimately approved no increase at all on foot
of my motion to retain the existing permit rate. This about turn demonstrates the importance of the public taking part in consultations being held by the council and contacting their local councillors to lobby their positions”
‘LITTLE LIBRARY’ INITIATIVE IS TO ENCOURAGE A LOVE OF READING AMONG YOUNG CHILDREN Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, T.D., and Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, T.D,recently announced the roll-out of the First 5 Little Library Initiative. The project aims to support the development of little libraries in early learning and care settings and encourage a love of books and reading among our youngest children. Under this initiative, more than 4,500 early learning and care settings are invited to collect free book bags and other resources from their local library. Speaking about the project, Minister O’Gorman said: “I’m delighted to announce the roll-out of the First 5 Little Library Initiative, which officially links our early learning and care services to the national library service. In supporting this link, my Department together with early learning and care services hopes to encourage a new generation on a life-long love of reading, and that this project will bring even more connections between local libraries and early learning and care services and the families and communities they serve.” The project is a collaboration between the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), the
Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA). €650,000 has been provided for the project from DCEDIY and DRCD.
Pic Credit: Lafayette Photography
www.newsgroup.ie
03
IRELAND’S LARGEST DISCOUNT DESIGNER TILE STORE
www.discount-tiles.ie
Tel: 045 844900 z Fax: 045 844879
Exit 8 or 9 off M7 Johnstwon z Naas z Co.Kildare 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm Friday z 10am to 5pm on Saturday
Full supply and fitting service available for all areas of your home. ● QUALITY GUARANTEED ● FITTING GUARANTEED
SALE NOW ON! UP TO 50% OFF TILES AND BATHROOMS WE ARE OPEN UNDER STRICT COVID-19 GUIDE LINES
www.discount-tiles.ie
www.newsgroup.ie
04
IRELAND’S FIRST PURPOSE-BUILT CALLISTHENICS WORKOUT AREA IN TYMON PARK South Dublin County Council has announced that Ireland’s first purpose-built callisthenics and functional workout area has been installed and opened in Tymon Park, Dublin.
Pic Credit: Ben Ryan
The equipment, the first of its kind in Ireland, is specifically designed for competitive callisthenics training and is expected to become very popular with park users. The aim of the installation is to empower people to create healthy habits, allowing them to improve their own physical and mental well-being through exercising in a
public park. Callisthenics is a form of physical training focused on teaching you to master your own bodyweight using minimal equipment. South Dublin County Council also plans to create and promote a range of instructional videos for the equipment that visitors to Tymon Park will be able to access through a QR code located at the workout area. Cllr Ed O’Brien, Mayor of South Dublin County,
said, “It gives me great pleasure to open the new callisthenics and functional workout area in Tymon Park. Public parks are spaces for everyone, for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. The equipment chosen for the workout area is versatile, multifunctional and is inclusive for all park users. I have no doubt that the facilities on offer here will prove to be very popular with people visiting Tymon Park.”
CALL OUT ON GOVERNMENT ON REITS APARTMENT BLOCKS Caitríona McClean, Fianna Fáil Lucan activist and runner in GE20, calls out Government on decision to allow REITs continue to buy up entire apartment blocks. ‘I believe this is a mistake and we are losing an opportunity here to open the market to individual buyers’, says McClean. ‘Is there any reason why REITs apartment blocks should not have planning permitted on the proviso that 20% must be sold on the open market to individual purchasers? I have written to Minister Darragh O Brien to raise this question,’ says McClean. There is an assumption that apartment living is a rental market. This has not been demonstrated, according to Caitriona who believes that the Minister is not going far enough to ensure apartments are available to would be purchasers. ‘Minister Fleming was on RTE radio recently explaining that apartments cannot be occupied until the entire block is finished and therefore the funding model requires investment up front which is the rationale for accepting REITs buying up entire blocks. I think this sounds plausible at first but when you think more deeply about it the argument is flawed. There is nothing to suggests that developers cannot hold back 20% of the block for individual purchase and given the pent-up demand in the housing market at present it is likely there would be no problem finding individual buyers. ‘It is simply not good enough to accept this funding argument at face value and to deprive people of the opportunity of owning their own apartment. It is always easier to resist change. With change comes extra work, but Fianna Fáil should go that step further and interrogate the argument for the status quo’, says McClean. ‘I think we may be about to lose the opportunity of reserving 20% for individual purchase even if the capital has been provided by REITs. The Irish market represents a good investment for these funds, and still would provide an excellent return with this amendment.’ In time, Caitríona McClean would like to see the State (via perhaps housing bonds) engage in this market and the profits reinvested in social projects such as cost rental and social homes. ‘As a first step I call on the Government to consider reserving 20% for individual sales as a pre-condition for planning permission. This move will guarantee that apartments will be available to purchase notwithstanding the REIT funding model’ , concludes McClean.
www.newsgroup.ie
05
www.newsgroup.ie
06
SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES MUST SHOW THEIR COMMITMENT TO TACKLING ONLINE ABUSE Fine Gael Spokesperson on Social Media, Deputy Emer Higgins has called on the social media companies operating in Ireland to
support the Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill and make clear their intentions to combat online abuse. “Social media
platforms are a brilliant resource and a means to connect, and I’ve had great engagement with Facebook and Twitter and Tik Tok
SERIOUS CONCERNS OVER CONTINUED USE OF GLYPHOSATE BY COUNTY COUNCIL Serious concerns have been raised by People Before Profit Councillor Madeleine Johansson about the continued use of the dangerous chemical glyphosate for weed control. In May 2017 a motion was passed by councillors to stop the use of glyphosate by the council, and in 2019 the council stated that its own staff no longer used this chemical. However, Councillor Johansson was contacted this week by a staff member who claims that public realm staff are still being encouraged to use glyphosate. The staff member, who wishes to remain anonymous, raises concerns about the use of the weed killer in public areas with no regard for the effects on the public of this possibly carcinogenic chemical.
Cllr Johansson commented: “I’m very concerned about the information I have received from a staff member about the continued use of glyphosate. This chemical is a possible carcinogenic and should not be used in public spaces. It also has a damaging effect on the general environment because it kills plants that are beneficial to biodiversity. In a question I asked about the use of glyphosate in July 2019 the council stated that it no longer uses glyphosate where weed control is done by directly employed staff. If the council has gone back to using this chemical that is extremely concerning. I have contacted the council about this issue and am waiting for a reply.”
myself in my role as social media spokesperson,” said Deputy Higgins.
“I know they have ambition to tackle these issues, but when the positives are no longer outweighing the negatives it is well time to take action and they must support the Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill to protect all our communities and our young people from abuse online. “Abuse is not just opinion, hate-speech is not opinion, death threats are not opinion and social media companies must do more to protect users and ensure that online abuse is not conflated as free
speech. “I want to see clear intention from social media companies on their commitment to tackle the rampant abuse that happens on their platforms and commitment to addressing the ease of anonymity that allows people to target others online. “In speaking to parents in my constituency of Dublin Mid-West it is certainly something that they are concerned about as children begin accessing online content at an increasingly younger age.” “In recent weeks we’ve seen the effect and scale of abusive
content on social media platforms and the horrific content that moderators must watch. And while I’m glad we have people in these roles, it shows the extent of the abusive content that is out there. “Social media is ingrained in our everyday lives and it’s clear that these platforms aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. We must act to make the online space safer for our children and local communities but that requires the full compliance and will for change on the part of the social media giants,” Deputy Higgins concluded.
COLAISTE BRIDE STUDENTS FUNDRAISE FOR SVP
Recently representatives from the 3rd year classes of Colaiste Bride in Clondalkin that were involved in organising the Christmas Jumper fundraiser for St Vincent de Paul presented Joe Moon, president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society with a cheque. €722.11 was raised in total. Well done girls!
www.newsgroup.ie
07
www.newsgroup.ie
08
PROPOSED DART PLUS PROJECT MUST DELIVER CITY CENTRE CONNECTION The proposed Dart Plus project will deliver a new Dart service between
Celbridge Hazelhatch and Heuston Station. This will provide a vastly
increased service of 23 trains per hour with a passenger capacity of 20
000. The news is extremely welcome, particularly for the Adamstown and Lucan
GRANGE CASTLE NOW A GLOBAL PLAYER IN VACCINE EFFORT
area and will help reduce traffic congestion on the roads. However, some concerns have been raised about the termination of services at Heuston station. If the majority of services terminate at Heuston this will add additional strain on the red Luas which is already operating at full capacity. The Dart Plus proposal is now open for public consultation until the 23rd June. Cllr Madeleine Johansson (People Before Profit) commented: “The proposal for a Dart service on the Kildare rail line is very positive for the area. Providing people with a high quality public transport option will help to reduce traffic in the area and to reduce carbon emissions. It will also serve the new communities in Adamstown and Clonburris.”
The expansion of the Pfizer workforce will make Grange Castle a global player in the fight against the covid-19 pandemic, a Dublin Mid-West TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins has welcomed the news of 75 new jobs from Pfizer who are a big local employer in Grange Castle. “The creation of 75 new jobs at Grange Castle as part of their new European-based facility is a massive boost for the local area,” Said Deputy Higgins. “The Grange Castle facility will play a strategic part in the global rollout of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and really shows that even though
we are a small country we can make massive contributions to science and medicine when it comes to the vaccine. “I recently toured the Pfizer plant in Grange Castle with the Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, Minister Simon Harris and local Cllr Shirley O’Hara,” said Deputy Higgins. “And we saw firsthand the mammoth effort that workers in Pfizer are putting in day after day to the global fight against the pandemic. “We wouldn’t be where we currently are in our re-opening programme without the ingenuity and research of these people and it is fantastic to have Pfizer right on our doorstep in Dublin Mid-West,” Deputy Higgins concluded.
Gino Kenny TD added: “The news of the Dart plus programme is great, but I
have some concerns about the lack of connectivity to Dublin City Centre.
The proposal includes some services that will go through the Phoenix Park tunnel and provide connections to the city centre. But it seems that most services will terminate at Heuston which would leave people a good distance away from the city centre. Commuters would have to change to the red Luas or a bus, but the Luas is already at full capacity and everyone who travels on it knows that by the time it gets to Heuston it’s always full. I’m concerned that this might cause people to continue using their car because it’s more convenient than having to change transport mode. I would urge the government to commit to funding to increase capacity at the city centre stations to allow more services to take passengers to the city centre.”
TO ADVERTISE IN THIS NEWSPAPER
CALL 01 451 9000
email: info@newsgroup.ie
www.newsgroup.ie
09
IMMEDIATE ECOLOGICAL REPORT NEEDED FOR SAGGART’S REWILDED GOLF COURSE Labour’s Chris O’Dwyer, the Local Area Representative for the Clondalkin-Rathcoole electoral area is calling on South Dublin County Council to carry out an
immediate ecological report on the rewilded golf course. O’Dwyer, who was recently invited to walk around Saggart Village and its surrounds by the Saggart Village Residents
Association said: “Upon seeing the rewilded golf course in Saggart for the first time I was taken by its sheer beauty and concentration of wildlife, including a turtle who has taken up residence in one of the many lakes. “Residents have informed me that the Department of Education and Skills is seeking to fill in the lakes in order to turn the area into playing fields. “This decision would be deeply harmful to the local wildlife and could have untold ecological damage to the flora and fauna. I have written to the relevant Ministers via my Labour Party Comrade, Duncan Smith TD, to ask for their intervention. “The residents are anxious that the ecosystems in place will be forever damaged if their is no immediate intervention and an ecological report carried out.
GOVERNMENT NOT INTERESTED IN FIXING THE HOUSING MARKET THAT THEY BUILT
TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has slammed the Government parties of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and the Greens for voting against a recent Sinn Féin motion that sought to end investment funds swooping in and hoovering up Irish homes by removing the tax exemptions and sweetheart deals that make the Irish housing market a profiteer’s dream. Teachta Crowe said: “I am appalled that this Government voted down a practical Sinn Féin motion aimed at ending the practices of investment firms that are using a broken housing market in this state to enrich their investors. Fianna Fáil and
Fine Gael have no interest in fixing the housing market that they built themselves. They have allowed vultures and cuckoo funds to come in and hoover up the few homes that are being built. They have encouraged a system that inflates prices that has resulted in Irish families having no real hope of buying a house. “These investment firms have deep pockets and almost unlimited funds. No family can hope to match them but it seems that this does not register with this government or is it that they just don’t care. “The Sinn Féin motion was a simple but practical one. It called on the Government to end the tax advantages and
exemptions granted by the Government to institutional investors and to introduce legislation to impose a stamp duty surcharge on the purchase of residential property by these investors. “Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien is at sea when it comes to mending the housing crisis. He spent more time sneering at Sinn Féin TDs during this debate rather than trying to address the housing shortage and greed that has incensed so many Irish people. This is typical of this Coalition “The vote against the Sinn Féin motion is disappointing and is another indication that they have no new ideas of how to fix the housing crisis.”
10
SUMMER CONNECT CHARITY WEEK WITH DDLETB
www.newsgroup.ie
KINGSWOOD STUDENTS TAKE PART IN BT YOUNG SCIENTIST & TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITION PRIMARY SCIENCE FAIR
DDLETB (Dublin & Dún Laoghaire Education & Training Board) recently celebrated their ‘Summer Connect Charity Week’ from the 17th May – 20th May, DDLETB celebrated with an exciting program of events to raise awareness and donations for AsIAm, the charity supporting people with autism. DDLETB raised funds in two ways by asking schools/ colleges /centres and services to participate in a fundraising event or to attend an online session and donate.
They also celebrated their successes through ‘A Year in the Life’ video montages. So many photos were received and featured in the live videos on the 20th of May. Highlights included Live into the classroom ‘Autism Awareness’ with Adam Harris (CE, AsIAm), ‘Doggy Doodles’ drawing workshop for 5-10 years (CNS) with their very own Jennifer Farley and ‘Autism Awareness’ – A Senior Leaders Session with AsIAm. To connect use social media to follow @DDLETB @AsIAm #TeamDDLETB #AutismAwareness
BT Ireland recently held their Primary Science Fair 2021 in classrooms across the country on the 18th and 19th May. St Kilians S.N.S. in Kingswood took part. For over 20 years, the Primary Science Fair has been a core component of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE), allowing younger students to develop their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) in a non-competitive environment and encouraging them to become future participants in the exhibition. Projects from 23 schools across Ireland were showcased during the two-day event, exploring exciting new ideas and fascinating topics in the areas of STEM. Due to school closures earlier this year, the Primary Science Fair was postponed during the virtual BTYSTE exhibition in January. Photo Chris Bellew /Fennell Photography
www.newsgroup.ie
11
SDCC COMMENDED ON 1,100 HOME DELIVERY
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD joined the Mayor of South Dublin County, Cllr Ed O’Brien, and South Dublin County Council Chief Executive Daniel McLoughlin, as work ramped up on South Dublin County Council’s joint venture development of 1,034 homes at Kilcarbery in Clondalkin, Dublin 22. The mixed tenure development, on 72.8 acres of council lands at Kilcarbery will include 310 social housing units or 30% of the development.
The council has just completed an allocated 109 social homes immediately adjacent to this site. Adwood Ltd, a consortium of established Dublin builders Adroit and Maplewood, will develop the site having been chosen on foot of a competitive process. South Dublin County Council will receive €38m for the site which will be built out over 4 years including the 310 social housing units which will be delivered at competitive build rates averaging €166,000 per unit. Acknowledging state support through the Local Infrastructure Housing Activation Fund (LIHAF) of €2m, the developer has also committed to delivering 50 homes at prices discounted to the market. The 724 private homes include a
comprehensive range of 3 and 4-bed houses as well as one, two and threebed apartments. The development also includes an 847 sq.m. community building which will be handed over to South Dublin County Council. A creche and retail unit will also be included as part of the development. The Kilcarbery development is a significant part of the Council’s €1 billion investment plan for building 4,500 new homes in the County in the coming years. During his visit to South Dublin County, Minister O’Brien was also shown a new ‘rightsizing’ housing development at Whitestown Way, Tallaght. The development consists of 81 homes for older persons and is being delivered by Clúid Housing on council lands. Rightsizing recognises that the needs of older persons are diverse and that few older people reside in a property that supports ageing in place. Rightsizing provides the opportunity for a better quality of life for older persons by offering them access to homes that will meet their evolving needs now and into the future. Currently, South Dublin County Council has 365 homes designated for older persons with a further planned supply of more than 200 and several additional sites undergoing feasibility
studies and concept design work.
Speaking during his visit Minister O’Brien said, “This mixed tenure development which will provide 310 social homes, reflects the Government’s commitment to providing homes for families in their area of choice further empowering people to stay in their communities and safeguard the quality of life for all who live within them. LIHAF funded infrastructure projects nationally are now beginning to see real delivery on the objective of the fund and yield the large scale housing supply. Whilst just one element of our response to ensure we build more homes, LIHAF will support the delivery of many thousands of homes nationally. Schemes such as this one here in Kilcarberry are exactly what we want to see replicated across the country, delivering a mix of homes, built to a very high standard, at affordable prices. The ‘rightsizing’ housing development at Whitestown Way, Tallaght is a prime example of Government’s ambition to enable everyone, of all ages, to live longer healthier lives in their own homes and communities. I would like to commend South Dublin County Council on bringing these projects to fruition. They are also continuing
150 VACANT HOMES TO BE REFURBISHED AND RE-LET IN SOUTH DUBLIN Building on the success of last year’s record investment in the programme to refurbish and re-let vacant properties, another voids programme for 2021 has been announced which will provide funding for the refurbishment of 150 social homes in the South Dublin Local Authority, a Dublin Mid-West TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins, has welcomed the announcement that will help 150 families in the South Dublin area who are currently on the social housing list. “We have heard loud and clear that more housing is needed in the areas of Lucan, Clondalkin, Rathcoole, Saggart, Palmerstown and Lucan,” said Deputy Higgins. “It’s the number one issue in my constituency and programmes like this one go a long way to helping those on the social housing list, in desperate need of a home. “Our Local Authority area is receiving one of the highest levels of funding of any Local Authority in the country, which is a very
clear indication that our housing difficulties are understood and being prioritised. “I am delighted that South Dublin County Council will be allocated funding to refurbish and re-let 150 social housing units this will mean good news for 150 families who are battling homelessness or who are on the social housing list. “The Department will fund refurbishment of up to €11,000 per property but they also recognise that a number of homes will need more significant investment so provisions have been made for local authorities to recoup an average of €50,000 per property for up to 10% of their vacant stock to ensure homes are in top condition for their new tenants. “With the construction sector having been shut for 13 weeks we know that the effects of covid-19 will have a significant impact on housing delivery targets but the Government are committed to making up for any loss and the voids programme for 2021 will be vitally important in this regard,” concluded Deputy Higgins.
in their plans to develop more affordable housing across South County Dublin with the support of my Department.”
Cllr Ed O’Brien, Mayor of South Dublin County, said, “I am very happy to see the progress being made
Pic Credit: Ben Ryan
on the delivery of these homes in South Dublin County. There is a real need to provide the right type of homes to people at the right stage of their lives and the developments we have seen today does just that.” Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin
County Council, added, “After the delays, we have experienced due to COVID in the past year, and given the housing demand across all tenure types, this is a significant and badly needed step forward in response to the housing challenge we face.”
www.newsgroup.ie
12
COLLAPSE IN DENTAL SERVICES AT CRISIS POINT IN DUBLIN SOUTH WEST Mark Ward TD has expressed alarm at the collapse in dental services for Dublin
South West in the last two years. He said that this has reached crisis point as
waiting lists for dental and orthodontic treatments soar and dentists drop out
of medical card scheme in record numbers.
Teachta Ward said: “The collapse in dental services for Dublin South West is at crisis point, with more than 27% of dentists in the Dublin South West area having left the medical card dental scheme in the last 5 years. “This crisis is underlined in the collapse in spending on dental treatment in Dublin South West by 37% “The Irish Dental Association highlighted their concerns recently in the Health
Committee, stating that difficulty in accessing dental treatment contributes to poor oral health and greater healthcare costs. “The burden of this disproportionately falls on lower income groups, especially those who rely on medical cards.
“Dentists have expressed ethical as well as practical concerns about unilateral cuts to the dental scheme imposed during austerity. “This devastated dentists’ ability to deliver quality
care to medical card patients. “The HSE dental and orthodontic waiting lists continue to spiral out of control. “There are now more than 6,737 people waiting more than 2 years for orthodontic services, and 2,439 waiting more than 4. “The number of new patients seen by HSE Oral Health in Dublin South West collapsed last year by 61% “Care delayed is care denied and the crisis in health continues to get worse under this Government.”
LOCALS CONCERNED ABOUT ILLEGAL HALTING SITE IN SAGGART VILLAGE
Labour’s Chris O’Dwyer is calling for an immediate intervention at an illegal halting site located in Saggart Village. The Local Area Representative is calling on both South Dublin County Council and the Department of Housing to come up with a meaningful solution. O’Dwyer, who recently visited the site said: “There is a worrying lack of facilities for families who are making use of the site and this should be cause for alarm for both South Dublin County Council and
the Department of Housing. The site is not fit for use, it doesn’t have the necessary infrastructure or amenities. “I am calling on South Dublin County Council and the Department of Housing to put their heads together engage with the members of the Travelling Community and local residents to come up with a solution. During the recent episode of RTE’s Reeling in the Years we were reminded of the Carrickmines Tragedy, if we do not learn from such horrible events we will continue to fail at risk
communities. “Residents of the area have reported an increase of illegal dumping due to the lack of waste management and an increase of human waste being found by local clean up groups due to the lack of toilet facilities. The site is not appropriate for use and the environmental impact is not fair on local clean up groups. “There needs to be meaningful investment and action on housing for the Travelling Community which has not been delivered or discussed.
www.newsgroup.ie
13
CORKAGH PARK PET FARM TO REMAIN PERMANENTLY CLOSED
TD for Dublin Mid-West Mark Ward has expressed
his disappointment that the pet farm in Corkagh Park,
Clondalkin has been closed permanently. As part of the feasibility study to look at the tourism potential of Corkagh Park the pet farm was not identified as one of the facilities to be retained. Teachta Ward has contacted South Dublin County Council and asked them to reconsider their decision.
Teachta Ward said: “As a long-term user of Corkagh Park I am very disappointed to receive the news from South Dublin County Council that the pet farm will be closed permanently. “Over the years the pet farm has been a wonderful amenity to the people of Clondalkin and further afield. I personally have visited it countless times with my own children and my parents. It was a real family orientated farm. “The Pet Farm was located near the visitor centre and rose garden in Corkagh Park, had an aviary and a range of farm animals and pets.
The animals included eagle owls, parakeets, parrots, canaries, budgies, zebra finches, pygmy goats, potbellied pigs, geese, ducks, chickens, sheep, turkeys, and a horse. “Initially it was closed to the public to facilitate works, with restricted access to one of the aviaries. However, as part of the feasibility study to look at the tourism potential of Corkagh Park the pet farm was not identified as one of the facilities to be retained. “The pet farm has therefore been permanently closed. “The response I got from the Council does not outline what plans they have for the pet farm site, so this also adds to the disappointment. “The birds that were remaining in the pet farm have all been rehomed to the aviary in Marlay Park. “I have contacted the Council and asked them to reconsider this decision and to also find out where the other animals were rehomed.
COMMENCEMENT OF WORKS OF THE WEIR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT WELCOMED Local Fianna Fáil Councillor and chairman of the Council’s Strategic Policy Committee, Charlie O’Connor, has welcomed the visit to Tallaght by his Party colleague and Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien.Minister O'Brien's visit marked the commencement of works of The Weir, an 81-unit residential development for those over the age of 55. The development will comprise of a total of 63 one bed apartments and 18 two bed apartments. Councillor attended
the
O’Connor event
alongside Councillor Ed O’Brien, Councillor Emma Murphy, Councillor Mick Duff, Danny Mc Loughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council and Marguerite Staunton of South Dublin County Council as well as representatives of Cluid and Cunningham Contracts Group. Councillor O’Connor commented, "This is a great project for Tallaght and I was really pleased to welcome Minister O’Brien to celebrate the commencement of works at The Weir.’’
TO ADVERTISE IN THIS NEWSPAPER
CALL 01 451 9000 email: info@newsgroup.ie
14
www.newsgroup.ie
www.newsgroup.ie
15
ENERGIA AND GIY GET IRELAND GROWING INITIATIVE
Energia has partnered with not-for-profit social enterprise GIY, to launch the first-ever national Energia Get Ireland Growing Day on June 19th. To help encourage people across the nation to get involved, Energia is giving away 1,000 large GROWBoxes to people across Ireland worth €45,000. With the pandemic forcing us to stay at home, there has been a surge in interest in growing your own food. Over the past 12 months, online searches for organic food has increased by 80%. Food growing is a lever to a healthier and happier, more sustainable world.
Energia Get Ireland Growing in partnership with GIY for the fifth consecutive year aims to make it easy for you to grow your own vegetables at home, to help power a more sustainable future in your community. The free GROWBox includes everything you need to start growing your own herbs and vegetables at home, as well as a bag of Irish Wildflower Beebombs which help re-
create bee habitats and are vital to help the threatened species survive.
Energia GIG Ambassador and Presenter of ‘What Planet are You on’, Maia Dunphy says, “It’s so important that we all learn how to become more sustainable, and our future depends on it. I’ve recently enrolled in a Masters in Climate Change policy to help expand my knowledge on helping to protect our planet. Initiatives like the Energia Get Ireland Growing campaign are so important and help us to see how we can all do our part in creating a more sustainable future for Ireland. Even if you don’t have a garden, you can still start growing on your windowsill or balcony, like I do. You might not grow quite enough to feed everyone, but it’s so rewarding when you can eat what you’ve grown from a simple seed, I challenge everyone to give it a go this summer and grow at least a little of your own!” The
GROWBoxes
are
designed for all living situations whether you are in an apartment or have a garden, everyone can still grow herbs and vegetables. All people need to do is fill out a simple registration form at getirelandgrowing. ie to enter the draw for one of the 1,000 free GROWBoxes. Energia and GIY will help support you on your seed growing journey this summer with an array of tips and tricks and the newly launched GIY app. Mick Kelly, Founder of GIY, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Energia again this year to help Get Ireland Growing. Lockdown has been a powerful reminder that food growing is in our nature as people. Critically, it also connects us in a profound way to nature as we see first-hand our dependency on our climate and biodiversity. Early summer is the perfect time to start your food growing journey and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone planting seeds on the first-ever Energia Get Ireland Growing Day on
June 19th.” Commenting on the Get Ireland Growing initiative, Marketing Acquisition & Sponsorship Manager at Energia, Amy O’Shaughnessy said: “We’re passionate about helping create a more sustainable future in Ireland and are
encouraging everyone to take the challenge this year and to get started on your growing journey. The Energia GROWBox gives you everything you need to start growing your own vegetables at home. We hope to spread the joy of
growing across all local communities and bring the fun and wellness benefits to as many people as possible this summer.” To register and enter the draw for your FREE GROWBox see www. getirelandgrowing.ie
■ Re Latting, Re Felting & Re Slating ■ New Roofs, Flat Roofs, Roof Repairs ■ Chimneys Rebuilt or Repointed ■ UPVC Fascias and Soffits. ■ Guttering and Downpipes ■ Cladding ■ Free Estimates and Advice ■ No Deposit Required ■ Fully Insured
SOUTHSIDE/NORTHSIDE COVERED EMERGENCY CALL OUT SERVICE Northside Office Fairview Strand Raod Dublin 3
01 9039037
Southside Office Raglan Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4
Mobile 085 713 0028
01 5136750
Web www.profixroofingandguttering.com e-mail info@profixroofingandguttering.com
www.newsgroup.ie
16
DO YOU HAVE A JOB YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE? Reach homes & Businesses in Lucan, Clondalkin, Tallaght, Rathcoole, Saggart and Newcastle.
Contact Newsgroup today on info@newsgroup.ie or call 01 451 9000
FROM WORLD TRAVEL TO HOME TRAVEL
On the 2nd of June 2021 Herb Leventon from Brooklyn, a renowned travel photographer will present to Palmerstown Camera Club. Herb is Tour Coordinator with Epic Photo Tours in New York, USA and creates a more authentic and deeper photographic and travel experience. He embeds you in tribal villages, leads you through a labyrinth of alleyways, brings you to a village ceremony. He gains you access to photograph in homes, markets and places of worship. He will immerse you in a culture that is far different than your own. He gets you access to people and places that are quite unique. He prepares everything so that you capture exhibition quality images. Locations visited include Omo Valley, Ethiopia, Myanmar, Iran, Romania,Remote Rajasthan and Kolkata, India. Herb’s trips are not for the faint hearted. Photographers who have gone on Herb’s trips say that it was a trip of a lifetime and they all
say that they are amazing. Some have said that it was a life changing experience for them. Because of the COVID-19 Herb Leventon travelled the city of New York on a bicycle rather than abroad. He captured images showing vacant streets, locked up premises, architecture and the changes taking place in human everyday life. Herbs images all tell a story.
On the 2nd June Herb Leventon will be showing Palmerstown Camera Club some of his images and giving tips on how to take them. Adults interested in photography can attend one or two weekly club meetings for free to see how you can benefit. For further information visit www. palmerstowncameraclub. com.
“Goldfinch” won the Intermediate Open category, taken by Maura Boyle
Tallaght Sports Complex
SUMMER CAMP 2021
Tel: 451 5105 / 451 5882
www.tallaghtsportscomplex.com
l Swimming l Sports l Games l Bouncy Castles l Arts & Crafts Lots of Fun and Much Much More
Monday - Friday: 9am to 2pm. Children aged between 4 & 12 years of age Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6
Monday 28th - Friday 2nd July Monday 5th - Friday 9th July Monday 12th - Friday 16th July Monday 19th - Friday 23th July Monday 26th - Friday 30th July Tuesday 3rd - Friday 6th Aug.
Prices: 1st Child €79 and €75 for any additional children from the same family.
In person enrolments commence Tue 8th June
INFORMATION: ● The Summer Camp is divided into three age groups; 4-6, 7-0 and 10-12 ● The following activities take place over the five days: Swimming (every day), Mini Basketball, Trampoline, Soccer, Gymnastics, Art & Crafts, Aerobics, Mini Hockey, Quizzes, Treasure Hunts, Disco, Bouncy Castle and lots of indoor/outdoor based activities. Covid restrictions permitting All Sports Complex Staff undergo Garda Vetting. Swimming Teachers and Lifeguards are trained by National Governing Bodies in Child protection. Along with this, Sports Camp staff are carefully selected and undergo detailed staff training in Sports Camp operational management. When your Children are at Summer Camp or any activity in Tallaght Sports Complex you can rest assured that the care and attention is of the highest quality.
TALLAGHT COMMUNITY SCHOOL SPORTS COMPLEX, BALROTHERY, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24.
www.newsgroup.ie
17
18
www.newsgroup.ie
www.newsgroup.ie
19
g n i k o o c e Hom and baking
Apple Tart Ingredients: -
225g plain flour 125g butter 150 ml cold water 6 medium peeled, cored and chopped cooking apples Lemon juice Brown sugar to sweeten
Method: Preheat oven to 200 degrees centigrade In a bowl place the flour and butter and rub ingredients together. Slowly add the water and work into a dough. Split the dough in two and roll out to cover a plate size. Place one half of the pastry on a plate. Peel, core and chop the apples. Place apples on the bottom layer of pastry with a little lemon juice and sprinkle sugar on top. Place the top layer of pastry over the apples. Press the sides of the pastry down all the way around the plate. Pierce the top of the pastry with a fork. Bake in the oven for 25 - 30 minutes. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
Pork Medallions cauliflower puree & apple salsa By Chef Bal Krishna Shrestha min Preparation time - 25 Cooking time - 40 min Serves - 4 people Ingredients: - 300 g - Cauliflower florets - 200 ml - Full fat milk - ½ tsp - Ground turmeric - ½ tsp - Chopped thyme - 1 tbsp - Apple cider - Salt to taste - 2 pcs - Diced tomato (seedless) - 1 pcs - Diced apple - ½tsp - Ground cumin - ½ tsp - Ground chilli - 1 tbsp - Olive oil - 1 tsp - Apple cider - 1 tbsp - Chopped coriander Seasoning to taste - 12 pcs - Small pork fillet medallion - 2 tbsp - Rapeseed oil - ½ tsp - Chopped thyme - ½ tsp - Chopped garlic - 1 tbsp - Irish creamy butter Seasoning to taste
Method: 1. Add chopped cauliflower, milk, turmeric and thyme in a pot. Bring it to boil and cook on low heat until the cauliflower becomes soft. Add salt and apple cider. Remove from heat and puree in the food processor until fine. This should be thick and smooth. 2. Combine all the ingredients together in one bowl and mix well with a spoon. 3. Marinate the pork with salt, pepper, thyme and garlic. Heat a pan with oil and gently place marinated pork medallion on the pan. Fry on the pan on a high heat for 1-2 mins and flip it gently. Cook for another 1-2 mins and add butter. Glaze the pork with the melted butter. Remove from heat and leave to rest for 2 mins before serving. 4. Serve pork medallion with cauliflower puree, apple, cider and tomato salsa.
www.newsgroup.ie
20
MOTORING LIFE
WITH
All-New KIA Sorento PHEV – Powerful On All Fronts By Breda Corrigan each of the door mirror housings. Impressive Safety Features; KIA’s BVM technology forms part of a standard package of safety features, which includes a Surround View Monitor and Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA), making low-speed parking manoeuvres as safe and easy as possible, as well as Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Manual Speed Limit Assist, Lane Following Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Trailer Stability Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop&Go technology, Multi Collision Brake, ABS, and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, along with multiple airbags for total peace of mind on every journey. Test Car;
The all-new KIA Sorento, now in its fourth generation, is living proof that KIA has follwed through with its transformation from budget brand to upmarket contender. The original Sorento, which was launched in 2002, was pretty much over-looked by large-SUV buyers at the time, and it did little to upset its mainstream rivals.
transmission, along with the reassurance of all-wheel-drive for times when the going gets tough. KIA claim that the new Sorento can do up to 56km’s on electric power alone, with fuel consumption as low as 1.6l/100km (up to 176.6mpg) possible when the car is used with a fully charged battery at the start of every journey.
However, the second and third-generations of the Sorento moved things on in terms of styling, practicality and technology, and they attracted a whole new audience to the KIA brand. Now, thanks to the new Sorento’s blend of premium features, confident and purposeful styling, impressive practicality and cutting-edge powertrain technology, KIA has achieved superstar status in the large 7-seat family SUV class.
Thankfully, charging the Sorento PHEV is easy. A full charge will take 3hrs 25mins using a 3kW home wallbox, or five hours via a standard domestic socket. Cables for both charging types are included as standard. Additionally, a low emissions figure of 38g/ km equates to annual road tax of just €140, while company car drivers will also reap the rewards of low benefit-in-kind rates for driving a new Sorento PHEV
Power and Trim Options;
BVM Technology;
The all-new KIA Sorento is available with a choice of turbo-diesel (CRDi) or petrolelectric plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains, while trim levels consist of ‘K3’ and ‘K4’ configurations. As we have come to expect from KIA of late, both trim levels come extremely well equipped in terms of comfort, convenience, connectivity, safety and security, with luxury and excellent build quality providing a common theme between grades. With 202bhp and a hefty 440Nm of torque on offer, the 2.2-litre CRDi engine in the new Sorento is a lively and spirited performer, and it is mated to a slick 8-speed DCT (automatic) transmission and a FWD drivetrain.
The new Sorento is the first KIA vehicle in Europe to feature their cutting-edge BlindSpot View Monitor (BVM) technology. This ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers is designed to enhance safety for Sorento occupants, and other road users, by eliminating a driver’s left- and right-side blind spots, and is just one of a range of functions enabled by the Sorento’s new fully-digital ‘Supervision’ 12.3-inch instrument cluster. BVM enhances drivers’ vision either side of the car when driving on the road, and is operated instantaneously with the car’s turn signal.
The new Sorento PHEV also offers spirited performance from its 1.6-litre T-GDI (TurboGasoline Direct Injection) engine in union with an electric motor. Combined power and torque figures of 265PS and 350Nm respectively ensure that the Sorento PHEV can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 8.4-seconds, on it way to a top speed of 193km/h. The PHEV comes as standard with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic
It displays a high-resolution video feed on the left or right side of the TFT-LCD instrument cluster if the driver indicates to change lane with another vehicle, or bicycle, hidden in their blind spot. The video of the blind spot briefly takes the place of either the speedometer or tachometer dial display (or the hybrid system gauge in Sorento Hybrid models), while still showing the driver the vehicle’s current speed. The video feed comes from discreet wide-angle, high-resolution cameras, one hidden in
My test car was a KIA Sorento PHEV in range-topping ‘K4’ specification. Finished in striking Mineral Blue metallic paint, with contrasting two-tone grey and black leather seating, the Sorento looked powerful, sleek and beautifully assertive inside and out. Measuring in at over 4.8-metres long, 1.9-metres wide and 1.7-metres high, KIA’s all-new 7-seat SUV commands terrific road presence, while its ultra-modern styling is a feast for the senses. Given the impressive dimensions of the new Sorento, and with a wheelbase of over 2.8-metres, there is a vast amount of space on offer in the highquality and ergonomically-designed cabin. The occupants of all three rows of seats in the new Sorento will benefit from the very latest in infotainment technology and connectivity, while enjoying the comfort of the leather-clad seating, and the supreme sound from the Bose™ premium sound system with 12 speakers (K4 model only). Standard ‘K4’ specification includes key features such as 19” alloy wheels, Smart Key & Button Start, Drive Mode Select, paddle shifter (lever type), auto lights
and wipers, power-operated tailgate with height adjustment, rear door sun blinds, multiple USB chargers throughout the cabin, integrated cup holders, multi-operational air-conditioning with climate control, dual LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED rear combination lights, LED fog lights and indicators, rear privacy glass, acoustic windscreen, panorama sunroof, roof rails, heated seats (row 1 and 2), heated steering wheel, 10.25” Navigation screen with RDS, DAB and TMS, Bluetooth™ with voice recognition, and Ecall for emergency situations, along with a host of other useful features for busy families on the go. On The Road; On the road, the new Sorento handles with great agility, while the rotary gear shift dial is very easy to operate. Strong acceleration and a robust brake pedal feel ensure that the Sorento can move, and stop, with great urgency when needed, while overall driving dynamics are faultless. The Sorento remains composed over rutted road surfaces, while driving on smooth tarmac results in a magiccarpet ride quality. Verdict & Pricing; The all-new KIA Sorento offers all the luxury, space and comfort that most families will ever need, while the PHEV powertrain provides effortless power in a genuinely efficient way. With its confident stance and terrific build quality, the all-new KIA Sorento has all the necessary ingredients needed to make a bold statement to the premium brands. Pricing for the amazing new KIA Sorento 7-seat SUV starts at €52,440 for the CRDi 2WD, with the PHEV priced from just €50,000 (inclusive of an SEAI grant of up to €5,000). My K4 test car specification represents outstanding value at just €55,000 (inc SEAI grant). All KIA passenger cars come with a 7-Year/150,000km warranty as standard.
www.newsgroup.ie
21
ELECTRIC ŠKODA ENYAQ IV TO DEBUT ŠKODA Ireland have announced their electric ŠKODA ENYAQ iV will debut in Irish showrooms on 1st June. The ENYAQ iV is ŠKODA’s first fully electric vehicle that was revealed in September of last year, with the first Irish sales pre-booked online in November by way of a €1,000 deposit. The ENYAQ iV is an SUV driven by an emissionfree electric motor delivering power to the rear wheels. An all-wheel-drive version will be available in early 2022. The ENYAQ iV boasts the latest modern technology and driver safety systems, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior crafted from quality materials. Boot capacity, at 585 litres, is one of the largest of any electric vehicle on the market. Offered in two versions, the entry ENYAQ 60 is powered by a 58 kW/h battery with a range of up to 412 km. The ENYAQ 80 features a 77kW/h battery and has a range of up to 535 km on the WLTP cycle. In geographical terms, a one-way trip from Cahersiveen to Carndonagh is achievable when fully charged! In addition to superior range and performance, the ENYAQ 80 version has
greater equipment levels and enhanced exterior elements. All ENYAQ iV vehicles come with the latest MIB infotainment systems with 13” colour touch screen display with an accompanying digital dashboard. From the exterior, impressive optional 21” Betria alloy wheels are the largest ever fitted to a ŠKODA. The ENYAQ iV can be individualised like any other model in the range. For convenience ŠKODA have consolidated their option list into 15 option packages; such as the “Light & View Package” that contains LED Matrix Head Lights, Dynamic Rear Indicators and Headlamp Washers from €1,417. Commenting on the imminent arrival of the ENYAQ iV, John Donegan Brand Director, ŠKODA Ireland said: “The ENYAQ iV has been our most hotly anticipated model since the launch of the KODIAQ. Although there are many electrified vehicles on the market today, very few tick all the boxes. The combination of great range, affordable price and space for all the family are often lacking in competing vehicles, but are delivered in spades by the ENYAQ iV. Many customers who reserved their ENYAQ iV online back in November will take delivery in July, with the remaining
customers taking delivery in the months up to September. I would like to thank them for their confidence and trust in ŠKODA. We are delighted to have secured a small quantity of additional ENYAQ iV 60 versions for delivery in September. They can be
secured by contacting your local ŠKODA dealer. Electric vehicle & home charging grants and incentives of up to €8,321 are guaranteed to the end of this year so I would urge customers to consider their electric future with an ENYAQ iV today rather than waiting until 2022”
OPEL VIVARO E-HYDROGEN OFFERS ZERO EMISSION Opel has unveiled the Vivaro-e HYDROGEN, a no compromise, new, electrically powered light commercial vehicle that delivers zero emission mobility for customers who need to refuel within minutes. With the fuel cell system located in the
engine bay and hydrogen tanks replacing the battery, the plug-in fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) boasts up to 6.1 cubic metres of cargo capacity, the same as the diesel or battery electric versions of the Vivaro. Refuelling takes minutes, about the same time needed
to fill up a conventional diesel or petrol car. With a range of more than 400km (WLTP), Opel will offer the Vivaro-e HYDROGEN in lengths of 4.95 and 5.30 metres. The German brand plans to start delivering the first
vehicles to fleet customers in the autumn. “Hydrogen could be the central element of an integrated and efficient energy system of the future, free of fossil fuels”, says Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller. “At
Opel, we have more than 20 years of experience in hydrogen fuel cell vehicle technology. There is hardly another propulsion system in the world that offers the combination of zero emissions, long driving range and only three minutes refuelling time.” The new fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) is based on the existing battery electric Opel Vivaro-e, voted International Van of the Year 2021. The Vivaro-e HYDROGEN integrates the whole fuel cell system with the existing traction motor under the bonnet of the production vehicle. The battery of the Vivaro-e is replaced by three 700 bar hydrogen tanks. The carbon-fibre cylinders can be filled in just three minutes, giving a range of more than 400km. Thanks to the smart packaging, the battery electric version thus becomes a fuel cell electric LCV without any modifications to the body and with no impact on the 5.3 to 6.1m3 of cargo space, while the payload increases to 1,100 kg. The Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN with its 45kW fuel cell is capable of generating enough power for continuous highway driving,
while the 10.5kWh lithiumion battery located under the front seats provides dynamic peak power when required at start-up and under acceleration. Since the battery covers power needs in such situations, the fuel cell can run at optimum operating conditions. The battery also enables regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability offers the opportunity to recharge the battery externally if necessary, at a charging station, providing 50 km of pure battery electric range. The Vivaro-e HYDROGEN will be produced by Opel Special Vehicles (OSV) in Rüsselsheim. The global “Competence Centre for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells” of the parent company Stellantis is also located in Opel’s hometown. The Vivaro-e HYDROGEN complements the Vivaro-e and the Combo-e as the newest member of Opel’s all-electric LCV family. The next new model, the new Movano-e, will also arrive in 2021, meaning that the brand’s entire light commercial vehicle portfolio will be electric by the end of this year. Opel will offer an electrified version of every passenger car and LCV model by 2024.
www.newsgroup.ie
22
READY, SET, TODDLE! IN DUBLIN FOR BARNARDOS Barnardos children’s charity launched Barnardos Big Toddle, supported by Pipin Pear with the help of some of Ireland’s littlest community helpers. Since it began nearly half a million toddlers – which last year included 1,655
have toddled over 228,740 miles to raise vital funds for vulnerable children their own age. The theme of this year’s Big Toddle is Community Helpers, people who help and support us all in our communities every day. At the very heart of Big
Toddle are the children who take part and raise vital funds in communities across Ireland. You can register today at www.barnardos. ie/bigtoddle. Barnardos currently works with just under 18,000
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. 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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. 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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. E.C
children and families across Ireland and the funds raised will support Barnardos Early Years services. Whether you’re a crèche, a parent or a childminder you can organise your own Big Toddle anytime in May or June by registering at www. barnardos.ie/bigtoddle your support ensures that
some of the youngest and most vulnerable children Barnardos works with are given the best possible start in life.
This year,Barnardos is proud to celebrate 18 years of Toddling which has seen children from crèches, Montessoris, childcare
groups, junior schools and families right across the country toddle over 228,740 miles and raise an incredible €3.9million since the campaign began. For more information or to register for the Big Toddle for Barnardos, supported by Pipin Pear go to www. barnardos.ie/bigtoddle.
even though it may appear difficult. This prayer must be publised immediately and after 3 days the favour will be granted. M.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. Special mention to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary for great favour witness received. M.M
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony “Blessed be God in His Angels and in His Saints” O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request). O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen. M.M
NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. You who solve all problems, who lights all roads so that I can obtain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and to forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life, you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and to confirm that I never want to be separated from you even and in spite of all material illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. (mention favors) This prayer must be said for 3 consecutive days and published immediately After 3 days the favor requested will be granted
Novena to the Blessed Virgin O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful wine, splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin assist me in this my necessity in star of the Sea. Help me and herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God of Heaven and Earth. I humbly request you from the bottom of my heart to save me in this necessity. There are none that withstand your prayer. O, show me herein you are my Mother. O Mary conceived with sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). I place this cause in your hands (3 times) never found to fail. M.M
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.
Five-year-olds (from left) Meadow Neville, Adam O’Meara, Saoirse Breen and Roan McDonagh pictured with Community Garda Chris O’Callaghan. Pic Credit: Mark Stedman
CASUAL TRADERS FEES
Councillor William Carey has welcomed the decision by SDCC councillors to back his call for a 50% reduction in licence fees for Casual Traders. At the recent council meeting councillors agreed a motion from Cllr Carey that casual traders should be offered reduction in fees for this year due to the loss of trading, as a result of the Covid-19 restrictions. According to Cllr Carey casual traders have seen their opportunity to trade severely restricted and yet have been required to pay for licence for a full year. These casual traders licence fees can vary from €500 (flowers) to €10,000 (ice cream) per year in order to secure their individual “pitch”. Over the past 15 months casual traders have seen their ability to carry out their business severely restricted. Business operators throughout the county were offered a rates waiver where they could not operate normally and “I feel that casual traders should be treated in the same manner”, said Cllr Carey. Cllr Carey said that
it was a no brainer that business operators should receive support through the rates waiver’s, but he felt that casual traders had been ignored and required to pay for a licence that they could not operate for the period it was intended for. Cllr Carey referred to a statement from Patricia Colfer, Administrative Officer, Dublin City Council regarding Casual trading in
Dublin. “We will be writing to all traders whose licence was due for renewal from January this year to date. All traders will be given a once off 6 months reduction in their licence fee.” Cllr Carey stated that Dublin City Council had already made such an offer to casual traders and I think it is important that SDCC should do the same for casual traders operating in the county.
REVIVE YOUR DRIVE Have your drive look like NEW! Block paving, Patios, Concrete, Tarmac & Decking
After
Before
NO MESS NO FUSS DECENT JOB THAT’S US AN WE CLE P O SH FRONTS TOO!
Call Ken today for more information on Mob: 087 277 7306 Office: 01 628 3318
www.newsgroup.ie
Local Business
Classifieds
23
CASWELL Wrought Iron Gates & Railings, Ram Bars etc. MOBILE WELDING - 24 CALL OUT
EASY WAYS TO PLACE AN AD Tel: 01 45 19000 Email: info@newsgroup.ie Online: www.newsgroup.ie
ESTIMATES FREE ● LOWEST PRICES
PH: 01 4519 773 / 086 250 3130
richardkinsella2001@yahoo.co.uk
ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES WITH NEWSGROUP
Delivered direct to
50,000
l Free Quotation l Free Fitting
l Free Bathroom Blind With Every Order
Wood l Venetian l Aluminium Venetian l Vertical l Roller Roman l Velux l Shutters l Day & Night l Pleated l Motorised l
CONTACT SAM NOLAN TODAY! Tel el:: 086 694 1189 WEB: www.snblinds.ie email: snblinds@gmail.com
homes in Tallaght, Lucan, Clondalkin, Rathcoole, Saggart & Newcastle. Contact us today on 01 4519 000
email:
info@newsgroup.ie 10% OFF THE MONTH OF APRIL
24
www.newsgroup.ie