Tallaght News 9th Aug by Newsgroup

9th August 2021

JIGSAW DUBLIN SOUTH WEST TO BEGIN ACCEPTING NEW REFERRALS AGAIN

Mark Ward TD has welcomed that Jigsaw will be accepting new referrals from 17th August. New referrals had been stopped due to an exceptional operational challenge following a number of staff transitions in Jigsaw Dublin South West. The TD had contacted Jigsaw and the Minister for Mental Health calling for immediate resources to be put in place so the new referrals can be accepted. Ward said “I welcome the news that

I received that Jigsaw D will be accepting new referrals. “I had met with Jigsaw in May who informed me of the decision to temporarily suspended accepting new referrals. “I immediately contacted the Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD and asked that this situation be resolved as a matter of urgency “Young peoples’ mental health has been adversely affected during the pandemic, Loss of schooling, sports , peer supports and even their ability to socialise with friends

have impacted on their mental health.

“To hear that Jigsaw stopped taking new referral in my area was very worrying. “Jigsaw have contacted me today to inform me that last month, due to an exceptional operational challenge following a number of staff transitions, Jigsaw temporarily suspended accepting new referrals until staffing levels were adequately restored. “I am pleased to say that they now have new staff in post and are reopening for

new referrals on 17th August. “Situations like this should not arise and there needs to be safeguards in place so children can get the help they need, when they need it. Jigsaw offer a listening ear and give expert advice and support to young people aged 12 – 25 years-old. They give families, teachers, and those who support young people’s mental health ways to cope and skills to be there for young people. Using a collective power to change attitudes they make sure that youth mental health is a national and local priority. They provide free, expert information resources and support online, and in communities across Ireland. Receiving the right information and support when it’s most needed can make a real difference to someone’s quality of life. It can improve their mental and physical wellbeing, and give them what they need to manage their mental health.

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RENT CERTAINTY NEEDED, NOT MORE OF THE SAME OLD POLICIES TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe TD has criticised the Minister for Housing’s proposals to extend rent pressure zone legislation until 2024 and to introduce limited reforms as “the Government wasting three more years on an ineffective policy that has done nothing to combat the rental crisis”. Teachta Crowe said: “Minister Darragh O’Brien’s plan to extend the ineffective Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) legislation out to 2024 and to change the 4% rent cap to cap rises in line with inflation is simply

wasting three more years on an ineffective policy that has done nothing to combat the rental crisis. “In 2016, my colleague and Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin introduced a Bill that would have introduced real rent certainty for all tenants by limiting rent increases in line with inflation. “Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil failed to support this. Instead, the Fine Gael Minister for Housing introduced the failed rent pressure zone legislation, which did very little to halt

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rising rents. “In the five years that followed, both these parties voted against the introduction of rent certainty five times. “The Minister’s plans to keep the RPZ legislation in place, while limiting increases to inflation, will do little to help tenants already struggling with high rents. “Furthermore, what about the 26% of tenants who live outside rent pressure zone areas? Those tenants will still be subject to the current flawed system, which is deeply unfair. “If this government was really serious about protecting renters, it would ban rent increases for an additional three years for all new and existing tenancies. “In Budget 2022, it should also introduce a refundable tax credit for renters, which would go towards recognising their difficulties and helping them with their rental costs.”

CLONDALKIN HERITAGE WEEK 2021 EVENTS

The ever successful Clondalkin Heritage week events are back this year and will kick off with the very popular Viking Experience on Saturday 14th August at Brú Chrónáin Heritage Centre on Tower Road.

Included among the other outdoor events are walks through Clondalkin Village to visit the several locations which were once local schools over the years, hosted by the Clondalkin History Society. On the 16th of August, attendees will be treated to the first ever tour of the SIAC quarry on Monastery Road. And a talk on the history of St Johns Church by local rector Rev Alan Rufli is scheduled for Tuesday 17th.

Clondalkin Library on Monastery Road has several online events lined up to please both young and old. The library will also host “The History. Heritage and Beauty of the local Camac river” an interesting photo exhibition which includes the photo archives of the Clondalkin Anglers (1958 – 1987) plus several more recent photos. The week will conclude on Sunday 22nd August which is designated Heritage Week Water Day, with a Walk and Talk on the Camac river hosted by Friends of the Camac. All walks are subject to Covid-19 guidelines in place and social distancing still applies.

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13-YEAR WAITING TIME FOR HOUSING IN SOUTH DUBLIN - PUBLIC HOUSING IS THE SOLUTION

The average time spent on South Dublin County

UNSUNG & UNKNOWN HERO OF AN GORTA MOR

Council’s housing waiting list is “disgracefully long,” according to David Gardiner, Workers’ Party representative for Palmerstown-Fonthill. For a 4-bedroom house, the average wait is 13 years, while people looking for a 3-bedroom house are left waiting 9.59 years on average. Those wanting a 2-bedroom house can expect to wait up to 9.87 years. “The council needs to be building accessible and genuinely affordable public housing. The only housing you see being built en masse these days is being built by private developers

The Shankill Marker was delivered to Newry recently from Tallaght based group CCIFV. When restrictions lift in full they will host an unveiling ceremony.

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who couldn’t care less about working people or our communities.” “There are 18 vacant sites on the council’s Vacant Site Register, two of which are owned by the council themselves. There is no good reason that public housing shouldn’t be built on at least some of the sites that are zoned for residential use.” “People need an alternative to the madness of the private market, and our government, both national and local, are failing to provide that. Public housing is the solution.” “Universally-accessible public housing, as supported by the Workers’ Party, would see publicly-owned housing made available to anyone who wants it, with the cost of rent based on their income.” “More information on our housing policy can be found online at workersparty.ie/ housing.”

CRY Ireland (Cardiac Risk in the Young) are asking you to join #TeamCRY and support them by taking part in this year’s VHI Virtual Women’s Mini Marathon on September 19th. CRY Ireland are based in Tallaght. You can take part this year by walking, jogging or running from anywhere in the world. Pictured (l to r) Clinical Nurse Specialists Helen Connaughton and Jingli Li; CEO of CRY, Lucia Ebbs; and Dr. Deirdre Ward, Consultant Cardiologist, Director of the CRY Centre are asking you to help raise much needed funds and awareness to support friends and families that have been affected by Sudden Cardiac Death. CRY offers free cardiac assessments, bereavement counseling, and family support services to families affected. For more information, please see CRY.ie. Photograph Credit: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

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TK MAXX STORE LIFFEY VALLEY ACE ENTERPRISE CENTRE SET TO BENEFIT FROM GOVERNMENT GRANT IS NOW OPEN The Government has announced over €48,000 for the Action and Community Enterprise Centre (ACE) in Clondalkin’s Bawnogue. Welcoming the news, local T.D. Emer Higgins, said that the ACE centre is a resource for budding entrepreneurs which will soon boast amenities including a digital hub. “Earlier this year the ACE Enterprise Centre received €1000,000 under the Enterprise Ireland’s Enterprise Centres Fund, to

The guest of honour for the official opening of TK Maxx in Liffey Valley was Moya May Kelly (12) from Walkinstown, Dublin; an Enable Ireland Children’s Services in Tallaght user. TK Maxx and Enable Ireland have been working together since 1997, raising over €3.7 million to support over 20,000 children and young people with disabilities and their families in local communities across Ireland. Moya has previously worked with TK Maxx in launching the 2019 Give Up Clothes for Good campaign.

help it transform it’s current centre into a digital resource for local entrepreneurs. I’m delighted that they’ve now secured an additional €48,000 from Government to support the centre with this project. ACE is a fantastic resource in Clondalkin and a huge support for budding entrepreneurs. Already it supports over 120 clients ranging from community groups to start-ups. This funding will be crucial to the centre as it builds out its coworking space and delivers its brand new Digital Suite and audio-visual services,”

said Deputy Emer Higgins.

“I was delighted to tour the facility with its Chairman, John Curran, recently to see first-hand it’s new industrial kitchen which is supporting up-and-coming bakers, chefs and cooks, and to view their plans to develop open-plan office spaces and a boardroom complete with videoconferencing facilities. Well done to Kerrie, James and all the team at ACE for continuing to empower local entrepreneurs,” concluded Emer Higgins T.D.

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SOD TURNED ON FLAGSHIP RESERVOIR PROJECT FOR THE GREATER DUBLIN AREA

Irish Water in partnership with Dublin City Council and South Dublin County Council recently marked the start of the works on

building a new reservoir in Saggart. This strategically important project involves the construction of a new 100 million litre covered

treated storage reservoir that will help to safeguard the water supply to homes and businesses in the Greater Dublin Area

(GDA). The new state of the art reservoir will store 100 million litres of treated drinking water, the equivalent of 40 Olympic sized swimming pools supplied from Ballymore Eustace Water treatment plant, Ireland’s largest water treatment plant.

storage for the area and will provide for social and economic growth. I would like to commend those involved in bringing the project to this important day and I would like to wish the project team well as the build the flagship reservoir.”

The construction of the new reservoir and associate pipelines is expected to be completed within 3 years. Coffey Construction Ireland Limited recently signed the contract to deliver this project on behalf of Irish Water.

Speaking at the sod turning for the Saggart reservoir project, Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Peter Kavanagh said, “The construction of this key piece of infrastructure demonstrates how Irish Water, working in partnership with South Dublin County Council and Dublin City Council and along with Coffey Construction is delivering infrastructure that is critical for our communities and our economy. The delivery of this project will support existing and future residential and commercial development in the Greater Dublin Area and I would like to wish Irish Water and the project team well as they embark on this important project that will help to build resilience in our water infrastructure for the longer term”.

The upgrade marks the first significant investment in the existing Saggart waterworks since it was built in the 1950’s. The current waterworks will be replaced with a new reservoir that will provide treated drinking water storage, building resilience in the water infrastructure for the GDA and improving the security of supply for existing and future residential and commercial development. Today across the world and in indeed in Ireland we can see the impacts of Climate Change bringing long spells of warmer weather and warnings alongside the continued need to support housing, businesses and economic growth. The Eastern side of the country and the GDA’s water network need to be more resilient to periods of high demand and we need to build future capacity into water system for all. This project is one of a number of critical steps in safeguarding Dublin’s water supply to ensure it is capable of meeting current and future demand. Speaking at the sod turning, Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Joe Costello said, “Turning the sod on the Saggart Reservoir project is an important milestone in the Greater Dublin Area’s water supply. The existing Saggart waterworks, built in the 1950s served our communities well and today marks the start of the construction of a new flagship reservoir that will serve homes and businesses across the GDA for decades to come. The reservoir will provide strategic water

Stephen Seymour, Irish Water said, “This project announcement coincides with Irish Water asking the

public to conserve water, it goes to show how these projects are essential to allow Irish Water to support social and economic growth in Ireland through the delivery of essential water and wastewater services. The size and scale of the task to improve water services for a modern growing economy shouldn’t be underestimated. We have made significant progress but there is work still to do as we continue to build world class water infrastructure through our multi-billion programme of investment. This particular project will provide strategic treated water storage capability at Saggart which is needed to support the building of houses and schools; to attract new industry and to allow companies to expand and grow across the GDA. In terms of size and scale, the new reservoir can store enough water to supply almost 300,000 homes with the water they need for one day. It is one of a portfolio of water projects that we are delivering to safeguard the water supply to homes and businesses.” For further information regarding this project please visit www.water.ie/ projects/local-projects/ saggart-reservoir-project/

UPCOMING OUTINGS WITH PALMERSTOWN CAMERA CLUB Palmerstown Camera Club, a local group of photographers meet once a week on a Wednesday evening from 8 pm to 10 pm. The meetings have been held over zoom in this past year online due to COVID. The members range from all levels of Novice, Intermediate to Advanced. Their door is always open to welcome new or returning members. During the summer months, they organise some evening photography outings and some upcoming outings include Maynooth College @8 pm on the 11th August and Bull Island, Dublin Bay @ 8 pm on the 18th August. If you would like to attend or further information please keep up to date on Facebook www.facebook.com/Pcameraclub. *Palmerstown Camera Club adheres to Government COVID guidelines on these outings.

Recent evening outing to Howth. Pic Credit Noeleen Kavanagh

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DUBLIN CHURCH TRANSFORMED INTO TONY HYNES NAMED ALL-STAR TRANSPORT INDUSTRY BUSINESS PERSON OF ECO-FRIENDLY COFFEE ROASTERY THE YEAR 2021 Tony Hynes, Course Director of CPC.ie is awarded AllStar Transport Industry Business Person Of The Year 2021 accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

Coffee lovers are set to be blessed with a new visitor experience – a unique, ecofriendly roastery on the altar of a former church. Customers at Bear Market Coffee’s new outlet in Dublin’s Stillorgan will be able to experience the full process from green bean to cup in the surroundings of the 150-year-old former Catholic church. Those booking the roastery experience will be guided through the roasting process, cupping and tasting by master roasters and baristas. The Bear Market roasts will be exclusively available in Bear coffee shops and online at www.bearmarket.ie.

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Kieran F. Ring, CEO, Global Institute of Logistics confirmed the award recently “ This certificate certifies that Tony Hynes of CPC.IE has been Named All-Star Transport Industry Business Person Of The Year 2021. The accreditation is in recognition of Tony’s outstanding contribution to the transport industry in Ireland. Furthermore, we wish to recognise Tony’s track record in establishing CPC.IE Ireland’s Leading CPC Training Company. Tony Hynes is hereby included in The AIBF Register Of Irish Business Excellence. As discussed during the audit process, your accreditation will be supported by the All Ireland Business

Foundation’s Marketing Department. Finally, congratulations, you have

performed admirably and are truly deserving of this accolade”.

SANTA CLAUS LOOKALIKE ACTORS WANTED! Are you Santa? Do you know someone that looks like Santa Claus? We are searching for jolly Santa lookalikes who are willing to play Santa. Location: Kilnamanagh Shopping Centre. Dates: End Nov onwards. Pay: €20 per hour. Full-training and Santa suit supplied. Real beard preferred but not essential. Please respond with your phone number and photo to staff@santaexperience.ie

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EDUCATION FEATURE CRUMLIN COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION - PAVING THE WAY FOR YOUR FUTURE Crumlin College of Further Education has been providing a quality educational experience to students in South Dublin and beyond for 65 years. Located on Crumlin Road, its close proximity to Dublin Bus and Luas services makes it an ideal location for students. A range of QQI courses are offered at Level 5 and Level 6 in the schools of Hairdressing, Beauty, Fashion, Fitness & Sports Therapy, Information Technology, Business, Administration & Accounting, Tourism, Catering. In addition, a range of night courses are offered at its Evening School. Here’s just a flavour of what’s on offer at Crumlin College…. The Fashion Department in Crumlin College offers industry focused courses that reflect the current and future staffing requirements of the business and creative sectors of the fashion industry. Students can choose between the QQI Level 5 course in Fashion Buying & Merchandising or Fashion Design with Styling. Both courses offer students a comprehensive understanding of their chosen field as well as a rounded perspective on the fashion industry as a whole. The college has established close links with a network of professionals within the fashion industry. Research field-trips for college assignments are organised throughout the academic year and are enjoyable and valuable learning experiences. Students have the opportunity to get handon experience through the college’s work experience programme. There is also the possibility to apply for college-organised internships and workexperience placements in major international Buying & Merchandising offices. Through

the

college’s

industry links with some of Ireland’s leading fashion designers and fashion stylists, there are frequent opportunities to apply to gain practical hands-on experience in fashion design studios or in assisting in the styling of fashion shows and photo shoots. Upon successful completion of the QQI Level 5 course, many graduates have successfully gained employment in the fashion industry as Trainee Buyer & Merchandisers, Assistant Stylists or Design Studio Assistants. Through the QQI progression routes, graduates may also apply to third level courses. Crumlin College graduates have progressed to successfully complete the BA in Visual Merchandising & Display in DIT. There is also the option to progress onto the QQI Level 6 course in Fashion Management in Crumlin College and this will appeal to students who wish to develop a career in the business, managerial and retailing side of the fashion industry while actively developing imagination and flair for design, buying and selling. The dynamic and industry-focused courses offered by Crumlin College’s Fashion Department equip graduates with a wellrounded and practical skillset desired by prospective employers in the fashion industry and prepares them for study at third level institutions. The School of Beauty is located in a separate building in Captain’s Road, Crumlin. Crumlin College offers a one or twoyear Diploma in Beauty Therapy. The Diploma in Beauty Therapy includes accreditation from QQI, ITEC and CIDESCO. The course provides intensive practical and theoretical training in a various aspects of Beauty Therapy and leads to an internationally recognised qualification. Successful applicants can attain employment as a beauty therapist in a

broad range of industries including Cruise Liners, Beauty Salons and Health and Leisure centres. Beauty and Retail Sales may be taken as a one year course at QQI Level 5 or a two year course at QQI Level 6. The course also includes ITEC accreditation in manicure, pedicure, make-up and beauty specialisations.

Practical and theoretical knowledge is enhanced through work experience in the beauty and retail sector and through the running of pop-up salons within the college. This course is also being revamped for 2021. Prospective students will be able to complete the full complement of QQI modules, leading to an

overall QQI Level 5 award in Retail Business, thus offering more employment and progression routes for graduates from this course. For information on these and all courses and for a seamless application process, you can visit www. crumlincollege.ie and click on the Apply Now link. To

access regular updates about what’s happening at the college, visit the home page of the website where there are links to all the social media platforms used. Alternatively, you can call the college directly at 01 4540662 where a member of their helpful team will be available to answer any queries you may have.

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WHY ARE PLC COURSES AN EXCELLENT STEPPING STONE TO HIGHER EDUCATION? A PLC course is typically a one year course that allows students to progress onto courses at Higher Education through the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). PLC courses are linked with a huge number of courses at all the Universities and Institutes of Technology. So, why choose a PLC course? PLC courses help prepare students for college life in a number of key ways: Retention rates: Numerous studies have shown that Higher Education retention rates are significantly higher among students who have completed a PLC qualification before entry. This translates into more students successfully completing courses in Universities and Institutes of Technology. Why might this be the case? PLC courses allow students to test their interest in a particular area, to find out if they like a course and have an aptitude for the course before committing to a four year degree programme. Specialised course skills- Throughout the duration of a PLC course, students will gain essential skills which will give them a massive advantage ahead of their peers when they start at Third Level. For instance, Nursing students will be adept at taking blood pressure readings, Software students will have experience in web design or Engineering students will have advanced skills in workshop processes. Assignment writing skills- PLC modules typically involve a mixture of assignments that are submitted throughout the year and an examination. This follows the same model as at Third Level. Over the course of their studies, PLC students will gain skills in constructing, writing and referencing assignments that will mirror the same format used in Higher Level colleges. The skills they gain will put them far ahead of their peers when then commence their first year of college. A year to decide your path in life- PLC courses can be a much welcome year to find out what path to follow after the stresses of the Leaving Certificate. Students who choose a PLC course will be rewarded with an extra year to mature and decide what they really want to do in college, while at the same time gaining a qualification in a specialised area. Essential life skills- Work Experience is a core module in every PLC course. As part of this module, students will complete a work placement in their vocational area. The skills gained during work experience link in with key competencies required at Third Level and can provide opportunities for part-time jobs in the future. Communications is a key module on every PLC course. Making presentations and peer collaboration are important elements of the majority of Third Level courses. The transferable skills gained while completing a PLC course ensure that students are well equipped for college life and the world of work. Taking responsibility for learning- PLC courses encourage students to take more personal responsibility for their learning and to develop independent learning skills. This style of learning reflects the learning in Higher Education colleges and is a move away from the more teacher-led style employed in secondary school. Finance- In general PLC College fees tend to be very affordable in comparison with Third Level fees. PLC students are eligible for the SUSI Grant and this will not affect any subsequent grant applications when they enter Higher Education.

Mary Mc Mahon Further Education Co-ordinator Greenhills Community College

FINAL ADJUDICATION UNDERWAY IN TEXACO CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION

Judging of entries in the 67th Texaco Children’s Art Competition is now reaching its final stages, with winners expected to be announced shortly. Speaking at the commencement of final judging, Chairman of the judging panel and final adjudicator, Professor Declan McGonagle (pictured) spoke of his ‘admiration’ for the levels of creativity and imagination revealed in the thousands of entries received this year. In addition, he congratulated the children,

their parents and teachers for keeping alive the spirit of the Texaco Children’s Art Competition throughout Covid-19, despite the interruption to normal school activity. “Through their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment, those who have submitted entries continue to demonstrate the importance that art has in the lives of our young people,” he said. First held in 1955, the Texaco Children’s Art Competition is widely acknowledged as the longest

running art sponsorship in Ireland. It is hosted annually by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand.

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ATTEND AN OPEN DAY VISIT GRIFFITH.IE

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WHITECHURCH PLAYSPACE OFFICIALLY OPENS

Members of the Residents Association and local residents with local Councillors Emma Murphy, Alan Edge and Yvonne Collins after the opening of Whitechuch playspace by Deputy Mayor Cllr Laura Donaghy. Pic Credit: Ben Ryan Recently the Deputy Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Laura Donaghy officially opened the playspace at the public open space at Whitechurch.

Speaking at the event Deputy Mayor Cllr Laura Donaghy said, “This is a playspace that arrived at the right time. Covid has reminded us how important

our local open spaces are. Having play facilities located in the areas where children live gives them support as they grow and provides vital

dlrChoice - a Season of Outdoor Summer Shows dlrChoice is a Season of Summer Shows brought to you by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council Arts Office under the Local Live Performance Scheme funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. It features more than 50 performing acts: from children’s entertainers to jazz quartets; comedians to singer songwriters; classical music to electronica; and opera to trad, bringing the thrill and joy of live performance back to public outdoor spaces at the Walled Garden in Marlay Park, Moran Park at dlr LexIcon, Myrtle Square off George’s Street and Dundrum Library. Featured acts include the Richie Buckley Quartet, Glasshouse Ensemble, Susan McKeown, the Camembert Quartet, Bren Tallon and comedians Jason Byrne, Barry Murphy, Kevin Gildea and Emma Doran. The season is programmed and curated by Schweppe Curtis Nunn. Tickets for the gigs

at the Walled Garden, Marlay Park; and Moran Park, Dún Laoghaire will cost €12 per pod; each pod will accommodate up to six people. These will be boutique gigs with maximum attendance of 120-170 people. Events at Myrtle Square off George’s Street and Dundrum Library will be free. An Cathaoirleach of Dún LaoghaireRathdown County Council, Cllr. Lettie McCarthy said: “Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is delighted to announce this fantastic programme of live outdoor events and we’re very grateful for the support of The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. It will give dlr based performers and musicians the opportunity to perform outdoors with an exciting series of events for our audiences.”

Keep an eye on www.dlrcoco. ie/arts and our social media for regular programme updates.

activity for healthy child development.” Natural play has benefits for children in terms of increasing mental and physical well-being, developing imagination, and allowing children to

assess risk and develop their coping abilities. The Deputy Mayor went on to pay tribute to Whitechurch Residents Association, the local community and the children of Whitechurch for their support of the playspace;

their active engagement in the consultation process and acknowledged the ownership and care the local community have for their playspace and the work of the Council staff in managing the project and maintaining the playspace.

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MECPATHS LAUNCHES E-LEARNING PLATFORM ON WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

To coincide with World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on Friday, 30th July, MECPATHS is pleased to officially launch an online e-learning platform which aims to educate a range of industries on how to identify and report suspicions of human trafficking, particularly child trafficking, in their sector.

providers; industry bodies such as the Private Security Authority, airline staff and frontline professionals; as well as Hospitality Training Colleges, Universities, and private industries, MECPATHS is now in a position to provide remote learning which will raise further awareness and help to protect children from exploitation.

Established in 2013, MECPATHS based in Clondalkin is the only nonprofit organisation in the Republic of Ireland which raises awareness of the presence of child trafficking activity in Ireland, specifically educating and advocating for the protection of children from trafficking for exploitation through identification and reporting.

Speaking at the launch of MECPATHS’ e-learning platform, Ann Mara, Education Manager, MECPATHS said “It is critical that people are aware that the illegal activity of child trafficking for exploitation is happening in Ireland; and that specific industries are the most likely to bear witness to it. For example, Hospitality Industry staff are amongst those most likely to encounter a victim of child trafficking as traffickers can take advantage of the privacy and anonymity that hotels and accommodation providers offer. Our new e-learning platform will educate people on what child trafficking is, the identifiable signs that may indicate a child is or has been trafficked, and the mechanisms available to report a concern or case of child trafficking.” In

As the only non-profit in Ireland which works in partnership with the Hospitality Industry and Services Sectors to prevent Child Trafficking, through their new interactive online learning platform, MECPATHS will enhance existing protective measures. Working in direct partnership with, and providing training to Hotel Groups and Hospitality

2021, The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) advised that “Ireland is not screening for victims of Child Trafficking”; and Ireland is one of just two European countries which has been named on a “tier two” watchlist, the third lowest of four rankings, by the annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, due to inadequate responses taken to tackle human trafficking.

Commenting on this, JP O’Sullivan, Network and Communication Manager, MECPATHS said “In the Irish context, in 2020 38 people were identified as having been trafficked, 26 in trafficking for sexual exploitation and 12 for labour exploitation, yet no children were identified, at a time of heightened vulnerability for so many already vulnerable children. In 2019 however, 42 were identified, 9 of which were children. 2020 was the fourth consecutive year of decreasing victim identification and saw the fewest victims identified since 2013. These findings do not add up, and the prevalence of human trafficking in Ireland is likely much higher than the official statistics report.

Pictured L to R: Gabriela Popa - Tulfarris Staff member, Ann Mara, Education Manager, MECPATHS, Ryan Willoughby - Tulfarris Staff member, JP O’Sullivan, Network and Communication Manager, MECPATHS and Lauren Stapleton - Tulfarris Staff member. Picture: Aidan Oliver Photography This necessitates the work of MECPATHS, which raises awareness that child trafficking does indeed exist here. Our message in relation to child trafficking is ‘Know it, see it, say it’, and our e-learning platform can help to educate people nationwide on how to do this”. Since its foundation, MECPATHS has worked closely with the Hospitality Industry to deliver freeof-charge workshops on trafficking, to support hotels in their efforts to ensure the safeguarding

and protection of all; and has proudly partnered with many leading hotel brands including PREM Group, Dalata, Trigon Hotel Group and The Gleneagle Hotel Group, along with a widerange of independent and family-owned hotels.

Through remote learning, all our team members in Ireland will continue to be educated on the signs that could be an indication of child trafficking taking place and, most importantly, they will know how to report their suspicions.”

Speaking at the launch of the e-learning platform, Sarah Marr, Group Human Resources Manager, PREM Group, Ireland and UK said “The more awareness there is of this social problem, the more progress can be made in dismantling this multibillion criminal industry.

MECPATHS invites companies to get in touch at info@ mecpaths.ie if they would like to learn more about the free-of-charge e-learning workshops. If you have any concerns relating to child trafficking, or would like to find out more, visit www. mecpaths.com.

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ESKER CELTIC FC SUMMER CAMP Esker Celtic FC recently held two Summer camps. During the first camp on Friday 16th July, they had some former players Ciaran Kelly (Bohemian FC), Zak O’Neill (Cabinteely FC), Paul Cleary (Wexford FC) and Kyle Robinson (St Patrick’s Athletic, currently on loan at Wexford FC) down to present the kids with their award certificates in the afternoon. For the second camp on Friday 23rd July, they had Ciaran Kelly and Paul Cleary down for the presentations. Ciaran attended the morning after playing in Luxembourg for Bohemian FC in their Europa Conference League first leg win v F91 Dudelange on Thursday 22nd July, while Paul attended prior to Wexford’s FAI Cup match with Cabinteely FC. Great commitment shown by both players!

The 2021/22 Uppercross + Niko Bathrooms Fantasy League is kicking off This year’s UEL and Niko Bathrooms are supporting the Men’s Sheds Association by raising awareness for the cause by creating a Men’s Shed Football Fantasy League where the monthly winning shed gets a donation of €100, the overall Men’s Shed winner gets a €2000 donation. UEL and Niko Bathrooms will also donate plumbing and heating materials to the sheds that require that type of materials through their activities and urge all their staff and customers to have a look at the Men’s Shed Ireland movement today and be there for

the men’s sheds, like they’ve been there for countless communities across Ireland.

Men’s Sheds Association and at least 12,000 men visiting a shed every week.

About Men’s Shed: The Irish Men’s Sheds Association was formed in 2011. It is an all island body with members across the 32 counties. Having originally started in Australia which inspired their Irish counterparts to begin their own movement. The first shed in Ireland appeared in Tipperary in 2009. Following the formation of the first shed in Ireland, the shed movement began to grow rapidly, with there now being over 450 sheds registered with the Irish

“Our mission at the IMSA is to support the development of the burgeoning men’s sheds movement in Ireland. As a grassroots organisation, we believe strongly in the autonomy of each individual shed, as we strive for a future in which all men have the opportunity to maintain and improve their well-being on their own terms and within their own communities.” Find out more, volunteer or donate: https://menssheds.ie/

Would your local club like to be featured in this newspaper and online at www.newsgroup.ie? Send your pictures, match reports or match information to info@newsgroup.ie

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BASKETBALL IRELAND ANNOUNCE GRIFFITH COLLEGE TEMPLEOGUE’S JASON KILLEEN NAMED AS IRISH CAPTAIN PADDY BOYD AS INTERIM CEO

Basketball Ireland has appointed Paddy Boyd as its interim CEO with immediate effect. Boyd is an experienced CEO with Irish National Governing Bodies, having also performed the role with Irish Sailing, Canoeing Ireland and the Camogie Association. Boyd will take up the position with Basketball Ireland on a part-time basis, alongside his current role as CEO of Pentathlon Ireland. He is also a former CEO of Sail Canada. Speaking about his appointment, Paddy Boyd said: “I’m delighted to have this opportunity to work with Basketball Ireland on an interim basis. It’s Ireland’s biggest indoor sport and has shown incredible growth over the last

number of years. During my time I will strive to keep this positive momentum going until the permanent CEO is appointed.” Basketball Ireland CEO, Paul McDevitt, said: “Paddy’s experience as an NGB CEO is without question and his expertise will help Basketball Ireland during a busy period for our sport. Our international teams back are in action, we’re hosting the FIBA European Championship for Small Countries and we’re gearing up for the return to indoor sport, preparing for the 2021/22 season. “We have begun the recruitment process to find a permanent CEO and it’s a position we expect to receive a high calibre of applicants for a hugely attractive position in Irish sport.”

LOCAL TALLAGHT LADIES COMPLETE 2,000 SQUATS IN JULY FOR LAURALYNN CHILDREN’S HOSPICE Local Tallaght ladies recently completed their 2,000 squat challenge throughout the month of July for LauraLynn Children’s Hospice. The ladies who are members of Tallaght Leisure Centre raised over €400. It was a tough challenge, but the funds raised go straight to LauraLynn to provide vital care and respite for children and their families. Pictured; L-R Liz Russell, Catherine Dunne and Noeleen Mills.

Ireland head coach Mark Keenan has finalised his 12-man squad for the FIBA European Championship for Small Countries, with Jason Killeen named as captain. He is one of three Griffith College Templeogue players selected, Lorcan Murphy and Neil Randolph are also included. The tournament will take place in less than three weeks’ time at the National Basketball Arena in Dublin, from August 1015th. CJ Fulton, who earned his first two senior Irish caps in the two-game series against Slovakia at the weekend, has made the cut. It completes a successful year for Fulton, who moved to Massachusetts to play for Winchendon Hoops in the USA last season, before announcing his switch to Lafayette College in spring, where he’ll be playing Division 1 college basketball. Will Hanley is in line for his international debut at the tournament. The 31-yearold 6’7” Irish-American power forward, was born in Connecticut and has played for clubs in Spain, France, Japan and Uruguay. Four players who played European basketball last season are included - John Carroll (Albacete), Adrian O’Sullivan (Aquimisa Carbajosa), Jordan Blount (Aquimisa Carbajosa) and Sean Flood (Arvato College Wizards), however both Blount and Flood are now unattached and have yet to reveal where they’ll be playing next season. Tralee Warriors forward Eoin Quigley, Pryrobel Killester point guard Ciaran Roe and UCC Demons point guard Kyle Hosford complete the squad, with Hosford also

chosen as vice-captain. There are four players in reserve and are still training alongside the 12-man squad - Isaac Westbrooks (Pyrobel Killester), Aidan Quinn (Belfast Star), Stephen James (Griffith College Templeogue) and James Gormley (Griffith College Templeogue). Speaking about his selection for the FIBA European Championship for Small Countries, Ireland head coach Mark Keenan said: “As a coaching staff we are delighted with the squad selection we have made. It was a very difficult task as we anticipated at the start of the programme that many great players would not make the final tournament squad. From 2019 to now we have worked with a group of approximately 30 players in total. All have contributed greatly to the progress of the team and I consider all those players as still being a part of our extended squad and part of our group. I would like to thank all those players for their dedication, hard work and desire for wanting to be part of this Irish senior men’s team.” Keenan also explained his choice of captain, after Killeen was awarded the honour, “We are pleased to announce Jason Killeen as our team captain and Kyle Hosford as vice-captain for the tournament. Jason has been a constant with the national team over the past 14 years, barring injury, and has been a prominent player in the Super League for many years. With his experience and personality he will be a great leader for this team. “Kyle has also been a very

prominent player in the Super League and couple that with his international experience and also his leadership on the court, he will be a great vice-captain to Jason. Having said all this, it was also a very difficult decision to make, as we have many great leaders within the group.” The Ireland head coach added, “We are all looking forward to the tournament start now, which is only a few weeks away. Having completed our friendly games against Slovakia this past weekend, these games have given us a clear indication of where we need to improve as a team over the next few weeks. We can be happy with our performance levels over the weekend for our first games together as a team, but we will need to go up another few levels for the tournament.” Hosts Ireland will face Andorra in their opening fixture of the FIBA European Championship for Small Countries on August 10th. The first game of the tournament will see Malta play San Marino. The event will take place at the National Basketball Arena in Dublin. Ireland’s schedule in the round robin tournament sees them take on San Marino on August 12th, followed by fixtures against Gibraltar on August 14th and concluding against Malta on August 15th. Mark Keenan was captain of Ireland last time they won a senior men’s international tournament, when they claimed the Promotions Cup in 1994, which also took place at the National Basketball Arena.

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MOTORING LIFE

WITH

SEAT Tarraco SUV Gets Sporty By Breda Corrigan

Named after the Mediterranean city of Tarragona (Catalonia, Spain), the terrific SEAT Tarraco became the Spanish car manufacturer’s flagship SUV when it was launched in 2019. SEAT has now added to its SE and Xcellence trim levels with the introduction of a sportier FR variant, which augments the 7-seat SUV’s sportiness with an exclusive exterior and interior look. Dynamic Personality; The SEAT Tarraco FR builds on all the benefits of the original but with a new, sportier, more dynamic dimension to its personality. A range of exterior enhancements, including the trim-specific grille with FR logo, highlights the vehicle’s change of character, while wider, black wheelarch mouldings, black roof rails and window frames with side mirrors painted in Cosmo Grey enhance the changes. At the rear of the Tarraco a new sporty spoiler, coast-tocoast lighting, an exclusive rear diffusor, and rear logo in a handwritten style adds to its allure. The FR trim also brings with it the latest generation of infotainment systems, helping occupants to stay connected and up-to-date no matter where their journey takes them. Powertrain Options; The SEAT Tarraco FR uses a range of new and optimised powertrains, both petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI), producing the performance expected for a vehicle carrying the sporty FR badge, but balancing the need to lower emissions. As well as traditional engines, the Tarraco SUV also brings plug-in hybrid technology to the segment, combining combustion and electrification to deliver a thrilling driving experience while aiding SEAT’s shift to a more sustainable approach to mobility. The Tarraco FR benefits from

two 2.0-litre TDI units with 150PS and 200PS power outputs respectively.

Traffic Sign Recognition and Traffic Jam Assist.

The 150PS unit is available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed automatic (DSG) transmission, with the 200PS unit available exclusively with SEAT’s acclaimed 4Drive (four wheel-drive) and DSG transmission. A 1.5-litre petrol (TSI) engine with 150PS comes with a choice of manual or DSG transmissions, while a plugin hybrid (PHEV) powertrain consists of a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine mated to an electric motor which is powered by a 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and is driven by way of a six-speed DSG transmission to produce 245PS and 400Nm of torque.

Test Car;

Super Spacious, Super Safe; The reassuringly rugged Tarraco features a raised ride height, a rising shoulder line, and a gently tapering roofline that all provide the large SUV with its attractive profile. It is the combination of elevated ground clearance and generous proportions that result in such a spacious cabin and, with up to seven seats available, varying combinations of passenger and luggage space is available. The SEAT Tarraco integrates a range of new advanced driver assistance systems and convenience features that allow it to remain secure, stable and comfortable no matter how demanding the driving environment. Systems include Pre-Crash Assist, Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, Travel Assist, Emergency Assist, and Side & Exit Assist, which work together to protect the vehicle and its occupants. Additional systems such as Lane Assist and Front Assist, which includes bicycle and pedestrian detection, are standard and can be supplemented with technologies like Blind Spot Detection,

My test car was a SEAT Tarraco FR 2.0-litre TDI 150PS DSG 7-seat SUV, which looked superb in its striking Orix White Premium metallic paint with contrasting 20” Supreme alloy wheels and dark tinted windows. Other notable standard FR equipment includes a digital cockpit, full LED lights, keyless entry & start, Drive profile selection, rear view camera, front & rear parking sensors, Park Assist, tow-bar pre-installation, sporty front bucket seats, electric driver seat with memory, tiredness recognition, e-call (emergency call system), ISOFix seat mountings front & rear, 3-zone climatronic air-conditioning, 9.2” navigation system, Bluetooth (phone & media), SEAT CONNECT, DAB Radio, Full Link (Android Auto & Apple CarPlay), voice control, heated front seats, headed rear outside seats and heated washer nozzles. On The Road; Producing 150PS (148bhp) and 340Nm of torque, the turbo-diesel engine in my test car had ample pulling power for a fully-laden large SUV, while enabling the Tarraco to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 9.8-seconds, with fuel consumption as low as 6.3l/100km (up to 45mpg) on a combined driving cycle. The Tarraco FR feels really good in corners and rides well over all surfaces, with only a limited level of body roll when cornering. For a large seven-seat SUV, the Tarraco is remarkably composed on the move, with responsive steering which provides great confidence when changing lanes on a motorway, or driving through bends on a back road. You can select from four different driving

modes – Normal, Sport, Eco or Individual – so the responsiveness of the Tarraco can be adapted to suit your mood or driving style. On the inside, the Tarraco feels every inch a product of the Volkswagen Group, although it’s subtly different to its smaller SUV siblings – the Arona and Ateca. At 4,735mm long, 1,839mm wide, and 1,674mm tall, the Tarraco is similar in size to the Skoda Kodiaq (with which it shares its platform), so excellent passenger space is on offer in the front and second row seats, while the third row seats are really best suited to children. There are plenty of storage options, too, including door bins wide enough to house a large bottle of water, a storage bin beneath the centre armrest, and two large cup-holders. The amount of headroom is excellent throughout the cabin, while three sets of Isofix mounts across the rear seats will be useful for families. The second row of seats split 40/20/40, which means you can fold the middle seat down when carrying long items, but still make use of the outermost seats. In the Tarraco, you get 700-litres of cargo space with the third row of seats folded down, but this extends to a massive 2,005-litres when you fold down the second row of seats. Verdict & Pricing; Overall, the SEAT Tarraco FR is truly great to drive, while its stylish good looks and smart interior are sure to impress even the most discerning of families looking for a large SUV for their family and leisure activities. With SEAT Ireland currently offering 3.9% PCP Finance, a €2,000 Online Discount Voucher and a 3 Year Service Plan for just €9.99 per month, there really never has been a better time to get behind the wheel of the terrific SEAT Tarraco. Pricing for the SEAT Tarraco range starts at €38,890, or from €389 per month (T’s & C’s apply).

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ONE IN SIX THEORY TEST APPOINTMENTS ARE NO SHOWS The fact that one in every six theory test appointments are no-shows is compounding the backlog caused by the pandemic, a local TD has said.

Dublin Mid-West TD Deputy Emer Higgins said, “The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is currently processing over 25,000 driver theory tests every month. On top of that, 10,000 tests are now being conducted online. People who have been waiting for

months are now securing appointments, sitting their tests and progressing on their path to obtaining a full drivers’ licence.

“I’m really pleased that the move towards online testing has been working so well; it was a key recommendation in the proposal I sent to Minister Hildegarde Naughton earlier this year which was based on feedback from driving instructors in Lucan,

JIGSAW VOLUNTEER RAISED MUCH NEEDED FUNDS BY WALKING OVER 160KM 26 year old Dublin man Jake Roe recently completed a fundraising walk in aid of Jigsaw. Jake, a volunteer with Jigsaws youth advisory panel in Dublin City is keen to support this vital service which provides assistance to 12 - 25 year olds country wide. Jake walked over a 5 day period from Belfast to Dublin which is over 160km in distance, whilst promoting a positive message for mental health using CLANG (Connect Learn Active Notice Give). To donate and for more information see www. idonate.ie/fundraiser/11404940_jake-roe-sbelfast-to-dublin-walk.html

Clondalkin, Palmerstown, Newcastle, Saggart and Rathcoole. “However, despite the progress made by Minister Naughton and her department, she recently said that 15% of theory test applicants are not showing up for their appointments. It’s completely understandable that people’s plans have changed as appointments were made so far in advance, but people who can’t attend need to get in touch with their RSA office to give them fair notice. “Anyone who can’t sit the test must cancel their appointment in advance so it can be offered to someone else. This would be a big help when it comes to clearing the backlog, and further decrease the time it takes for people to secure appointments. “Young people have been hugely impacted by the pandemic and learning to drive is a rite of passage for many. There are some prospective drivers that booked their essential driving lessons last year and still haven’t been able to sit behind the

wheel. We need to do all we can to get our learner

drivers motoring, and that starts with clearing the

backlog for theory tests,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

GILLICK AND HARRINGTON TO DRAW 70,000 TO CHILDREN’S FITNESS PROGRAMME

Over 70,000 young people and parents answered the call of Irish world boxing champion Kellie Harrington and track and field Olympian, David Gillick by tuning in to their 12week online Fyffes Fit Squad programme, aimed at encouraging children and families to adopt a more healthy and active lifestyle. Launched in March, and created so that teachers and parents could also participate, the series of interactive videos saw Kellie and David demonstrate new workout routines whilst giving advice on overall wellbeing and healthy-eating. Last year, Fit Squad went online when schools were forced to close. With hundreds now awaiting visits, Fyffes says it is looking forward to resuming live sessions in schools ‘once it is deemed safe to do so’. Mums, dads and little ones looking to keep active over Summer can still follow the fitness videos at www.fyffesfitsquad.ie

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