North County Leader - 21st April 2015

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21st April 2015 • Volume 22, Issue 12 • Leader House, North Street, Swords, Co. Dublin. • Tel: 8•400•200 • info@northcountyleader.ie

Massive Spend On Social Housing of social housing targets that have been set for the North County until 2017.

“Each local authority

By Jennifer McShane was asked to bring forward housing Environment unit targets and Minister Alan specific building Kelly which projects out to outline the plan 2017. As part of to significantly the strategy, reduce the targets had to numbers of be agreed with people on each local housing lists Deputy Ryan authority in l o c a l l y , 2015. according to Ryan.

“One local project that “We are seeing the has now gotten the fruits of this strategy green light is trickling down to local Racecourse Commons, level with confirmation Lusk where 77 units

The housing list in the North County is set to reduce by 23 per cent amid news that 1376 social housing units will be delivered by the local authority by the end of 2017.

The move was confirmed by local Labour TD, Brendan Ryan.

A massive €81,041,413 is to be invested in the North County from now until 2017 to enable it to increase the numbers of social housing units that can be acquired or built in the county.

Details of the new Build, Buying and Leasing Programme were confirmed by

will now be delivered.

Details of further projects which will also now go ahead will be issued in a few weeks,” Ryan explained.

“We have a serious housing problem in the North County but in Minister Kelly we have someone who is determined to tackle the crisis head-on. To this end I have been working closely with him, as Chair of the Labour Parliamentary Party group on Housing, to ensure that our local area gets its fair share of funding

Pictured at the First Year Anniversary celebrations of Fingal Local Enterprise Office at Malahide Castle last Wednesday are Oisin Geoghegan (Head of Fingal Local Enterprise Office), County Mayor, Cllr Mags Murray, Dublin GAA star, Bernard Brogan and Paul Reid (Chief Executive, Fingal County Council). See pictures on page 4

and today’s announcement proves that. “I look forward to seeing the social housing dividend of this invest-

ment and trust it will have a substantial impact on the housing needs of the local area,” Ryan concluded.

Progress Made On Swords Cultural Quarter Following on from our recent article announcing a brand new masterplan for Swords, substantial progress is being made on the plans to revamp and revive the town, with work on the castle and surrounding main street in the form of a Cultural Quarter for the area.

In 2014 the Conservation Plan for Swords Castle was published. This identifies actions to take the castle onwards into the future ensuring its conservation and allowing it to be enjoyed by everyone. The County Council has mentioned the projects that have been undertaken so far, which include: The stabilisation of the gatehouse, as well as new interpretation panels have been designed for the castle and incorporate some of the content from the Conservation Plan.

Surveys were carried out as part of their work.

These surveys identified some sub surface anomalies in the central area that are worthy of excavation. It is planned that whatever excavation work takes place, there will be public interaction with the process, according to the local authority. The local authority also note that a design team has been procured in order to start design work associated with the reconstruction of the vault over the main entrance. A

programme of ivy removal has just started also.

In addition, the Council are in the process of creating a masterplan for the area around the castle to be known as Swords Cultural Quarter. Some of its projects include: a new major central public and civic space outside Swords Castle, new Library/Civic Centre building to sit alongside County Hall, new landscape interventions in the park and the town, and the creation of a Hub or Cultural quarter on North Street and the Main Street. Paul Reid, CEO of Fingal County Council said: “This new development will provide a civic and cultural space which will benefit citizens, the business community and visitors.”

Continued on page 16

INDIAN SPIRIT IN THE HEART OF SWORDS

Feel The Heat Burgandy House, Forster Way, Swords

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Ballyboughal Pitch And Putt Sunday game winner was Mary Kennedy with a net 50, while the runner-up was Liam O’Rourke with a net 52.

Ladies morning at the club is Tuesdays at 11am. The Wednesday Scramble resumes on Wednesday week, 29th April which always proves to be very successful.

Lotto bonus balls available for April draw on Saturday, 25th April. Members are reminded that 2015 renewals are now due and can be paid to the secretary any Sunday morning at the club. New members are welcome join and there will be coaching for Adult beginners and Improvers starting in May on Tuesday evenings 7pm.

RNLI Prepares For ‘Mayday’

We think you’ll find that our newspaper ‘stack’ is CONSIDERABLY bigger than theirs!

The RNLI, is issuing its own call for help, appealing for local volunteers and fundraisers to get involved with ‘Mayday’, the organisation’s forthcoming national fundraising event which will take place from 1st to 4th May this year.

Street collections and fundraising events will be taking place around the North County, and the charity, which saves lives at sea, is calling on people to show their support – either by volunteering to help with collections and events, or by taking part in a fundraising activity in aid of the RNLI.

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Local TD Alan Farrell (FG) has stated that Fianna Fáil’s depiction of the situation regarding the remediation of pyrite affected homes is somewhat disingenuous.

Farrell has long been supporting those whose homes suffer with pyrite, as his own home was similarly affected.

“I understand the frustration felt by many homeowners whose homes are affected by pyrite and pyritic heave.

However, Fianna Fáil’s attempt to criticise the

Pyrite Remediation Scheme does not provide an accurate portrayal of the current standing of remediation works and does not acknowledge the fact that Fianna Fáil ignored the pyrite issue during their time in government.

Farrell said he was very much in favour of the progress currently being made in an attempt to remediate homes under the Pyrite Remediation Scheme: “The current Pyrite Remediation Scheme

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who constructed their house,” he added.

“Currently, remediation work on 20 dwellings is taking place and, this month, the remediation of a further 81 homes will commence,” Farrell continued.

Furthermore, also this month, contractors will be appointed to two other projects totalling four homes and tenders are due back for the remediation of another 25 dwellings. In addition to this, three remediation projects, for work to be carried out on 86 homes, will go to tender.

It appears that these figures do not suit the picture that Fianna Fáil are trying to paint as they were notably absent from their latest release on this issue,” he concluded.

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was adopted by this Government in February last year. Over 670 applications have been made to the Pyrite Remediation Scheme and engineers have been assigned to over 340 of these homes; the preparatory work, tendering for remediation works, or the remediation itself is either underway or imminent for these dwellings,” Farrell explained.

“I have continued to engage with Minister Paudie Coffey in relation to the possibility of expanding the Pyrite Remediation Scheme, particularly to address the situation whereby many homeowners around the North County are not currently eligible for remediation works unless the developer

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honours of raising the flag, while the whole school community of children, staff, parents and community representatives played their part in the ceremony.

The school choir sang their heart out as they performed their song “One World in Harmony”. The ceremony, like the work carried out for the award, was exemplary of what can be achieved when everyone works together. It was a great day and one which will be remembered with pride for a long time to come.

Last Friday, 17th April marked a lives. The Yellow Flag Programme great day in the history of Bracken ties in very well with the ethos of ETNS in Balbriggan. The school had Educate Together which is “Learn the honour of raising its Yellow Flag Together to Live Together”, while and flying it proudly in recognition also complementing their vision of of all the hard work the whole education at Bracken ETNS. school community has done around Acting County Mayor, Cllr. Gráinne inclusion, diversity, interculturalism Maguire was on hand to do the and equality.

The Yellow Flag programme is an award scheme and therefore, on completing eight major steps and being assessed externally, the school is awarded its “Yellow Flag” in recognition of its work in promoting diversity and inclusion. The Yellow Flag Programme takes these issues and not only deals with them in a school Pictured at the raising of a Yellow Flag for Integration at Bracken Educate Together National based environment, but School are Yellow Flag committee members, Mohammed Zain, Amariah Eneh, Sania allows them to permeate Santhosh, Christopher Collins, Mikolay Orchowski, Saabir Jailann and Maria Lewandowska, into the running of daily with acting County Mayor, Cllr Grainne Maguire, getting ready to raise the flag

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Farrell Welcomes Progress On PyriteAffected Homes

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Ballyboughal Man Celebrates 80th Birthday Evergreen Ballyboughal man, V Delaney celebrated his 80th birthday, with a party at The Harp Bar in Swords on Friday last.

Josie Delaney is pictured with her husband, V Delaney on the occasion of his 80th birthday party celebrations at the Harp Bar in Swords

V is one of the most readily identifiable people in the North County, as he still performs, along with his son, Ronnie with the ever popular Morning Dew ballad group. Indeed V’s own version of the ‘Rose of Clare’ is a particular favourite with people, and is one that many people associated with him.

V is a proud Ballyboughal man, who was born in the village in 1935. “I grew up there and went to school in the village.

Afterwards I went to

England and worked on the buses. where I was a bus driver for five years. When I returned home, I worked as a bus driver with CIE for a further five years and I eventually ended up working for Dublin County Council for 26 years in the Water section,” he said.

V married his sweetheart, Josie 55 years ago and in between, he managed to play football and hurling.

He played football for Ballyboughal and hurling for Fingal Rovers in the 1950s, as

Medical Science Advanced

By Swords Man’s Decision The use of human bodies as a basis of the study of human anatomy, has been the cornerstone of medical training and research for over 400 years.

To continue this vital research and education, it is imperative that people agree to donate their bodies after their deaths, in an effort to advance the skills of surgeons in their efforts to save human lives.

One man who agreed to donate his remains to the Discipline of Anatomy at Trinity College after his death was Swords resident, Maurice Bryan, who sadly passed away in 2013. His wife, Bobbie Bryan told the County Leader about Maurice’s decision. She said, “We moved to Swords in 2010 from Rathfarnham to be closer to my family, who are from this area of North County Dublin. The community spirit here in Swords is outstanding and is a wonderful place to live. Maurice had prostate cancer and he decided one day, out of the blue, to come to Swords. All the carers and doctors gave Maurice the best of attention.”

The decision to donate his body came through his aunt. Iris who died in 2002 aged over 100 years. That’s when the process of her going to Trinity College began, where we met Philomena McAteer and Siobhan Ward in the Anatomy department . They held a beautiful service of remembrance for people who donated their bodies. We were very impressed with the entire set up and Maurice was in regular contact with them.

One day, Philomena said to him that they were having great difficulties in getting donations and he suggested that they should consider going on RTE to publicise it and subsequent to that, they appeared (with Maurice) on the programme. Shortly after this, we both decided to donate our bodies to science at Trinity.

Maurice was a very committed conservationist and served as a director in Birdwatch Ireland.

He was also a scout leader, so it was no

Bobbie Bryan, whose husband Maurice donated his remains to medical education and research, is pictured at her home in Swords holding a photograph of her late husband.

surprise that Maurice chose to donate his body.

“I won’t need my body afterwards,” he always said and I feel exactly the same,” said Bobbie.

She is delighted to see the reaction of medical students, who are now in a position to further their careers as a direct result of Maurice’s decision.

Maurice’s remains were returned to Bobbie and a memorial service was held at St Columba’s Church here in Swords last year, which served as a funeral service. He was cremated at Glasnevin Cemetery and is interned in Garristown Cemetery.

Lynam Seeks Councillor Support To Abolish Irish Water Local Sinn Féin councillor, Philip Lynam has submitted a motion to the County Council calling for the reversal of the Irish Water bill introduced by the Fine Gael - Labour coalition government. The motion also calls for Irish Water to be abolished, which is a motion Cllr Lynam has had on the council agenda since November last.

Speaking about this to the County Leader, Lynam said: “I am calling for the County Council and its local councillors to recognise the financial circumstances of many families in the North County and throughout the state who are struggling to get by week to week. I am also calling on the government to reverse the decision to charge people for water, abolish Irish Water and instead use monies allocated for future investment by Irish Water to fix leaking pipes instead and not further burden families who cannot take anymore,” he said.

Cllr. Lynam

well as for Round Towers, Lusk afterwards. ‘You could play football with Ballyboughal and hurling for Round Towers in those days,” said V. Indeed he has a junior football championship medal, which he won with his beloved Ballyboughal in the 1950s and history repeated itself in the last few years, when V’s grandson also won a junior championship medal with Ballyboughal,

which is a source of great satisfaction to him.

V has been entertaining followers of Morning Dew for almost 40 years and it is a labour of love for him and he has no intention of hanging up the bodhrán any time soon. When asked what kept him going over the years, he said: “Plenty of hard work and drinking plenty of ‘milk’,” he said with a wry smile.

03 Fingal 10k Returns To Swords The Fingal 10K will take place in Swords once again this year. The County Council are delighted to announce once again that they will join forces with the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon Race Series in bringing the Fingal 10K back to Swords on Sunday, 19th July. Last year over 3000 people signed up to run, walk, slog or jog. Registration is open now.

Skerries Tidy Towns Look Ahead Skerries Tidy Towns Committee began their door to door collection this week. The group depends on the generous contributions of all residents in the town to ensure they can continue to work on behalf of everyone for the good of Skerries, and they want to thank locals for their generosity and continued support.

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Fingal Local Enterprise Office Celebrates 1st Birthday

Chris Creevey and Tracey Healy (both from CT Print Solutions), with Jock Jordan (One4All)

Michael Kennedy (Michael Kennedy Insurance) and Don Earley (Web Centre)

Pictured with the first anniversary cake are Paul Reid (Chief Executive, Fingal County Council), Oisin Geoghegan (Head of Fingal LEO), Roberts Bulloch (Le patissier, who baked the cake) and Mags Murray (County Mayor)

Ethna Felten and Noeleen McHugh (both fron Fingal County Council) with Tony Lambert (CEO Fingal Dublin Chamber)

Edel Greenan (My Virtual Assistant), Suzanne Clarke (Clarkes Handmade Soaps) and Sue Griffiths (North County Leader)

The Fingal Local Enterprise Office (LEO) celebrated its 1st Birthday in style last week, with an announcement that it has approved €260,000 in funding for 14 small businesses, mostly start-up enterprises.

Speaking at the packed “LEO First Birthday Networking Celebration” in Malahide Castle, where more than 200 local businesses gathered to celebrate, the Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Paul Reid was delighted to present the 14 newly approved business owners with their grant approval letters: “Small businesses and start-ups are providing a powerful driving force to our local and national economic growth,” Reid commented.

“In the North County, I am proud of the performance of our LEO in its first year. It is at the forefront of supporting job

Lisa Halligan (Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport), Oisin Geoghegan (Fingal LEO) and Andrea Molloy (Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport)

Guest speaker, Michael Dawson (One4All), Niall Strickland (Growth Oracle.com) and Cllr Joe Newman

creation in dynamic small businesses,” he added.

Of the 14 local small businesses approved for a share of the €260,000 investment, 11 are start-up businesses while 3 are existing small businesses. All of the businesses have demonstrated good growth and future employment prospects and almost all are currently targeting overseas markets for their growth.

The businesses and new jobs will be spread throughout the North County region including Howth, Sutton, Portmarnock, Skerries, Balbriggan, Lusk and beyond.

Speaking at the presentation of the letters confirming grant aid, Head of Enterprise in the North County, Oisin Geoghegan added: “These small businesses are creating 20 much needed new jobs immediately. But it will not end there, because we antici-

pate that employment numbers in these 14 businesses will grow to 50 new jobs after year one, with prospects for further growth and job creation over the next three years in these businesses.”

The North County celebrated the good jobs news announcement in Malahide Castle, attracting many local business owner/managers from throughout the region. The County Mayor, Cllr. Mags Murray, joined the Chief Executive Paul Reid in the presentation of the grant approval letters to the businesses. The event also included an inspirational address provided by special guest speaker Michael Dawson, founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of One4All, one of the North County’s most successful entrepreneurs.

Pictured at the 1 year Anniversary Celebrations of Local Enterprise Office Fingal at Malahide Castle were Mary Downey (Almacare Ltd.), Peter Coyle and Ghislane Coyle.

Jenny Lupton (Forever Living Products), Daria Egorina (Clever Books), Eileen Poynton and Tom Poynton (both from Bo Pro)

Cllr Anthony Lavin and Paul Reid (Chief Executive, Fingal County Council)

Pictured at the 1 year Anniversary Celebrations of Local Enterprise Office Fingal at Malahide Castle were: Karen Devine (Whitelight Consulting), Stiofan Nutty (Business Advisor).

Sue Griffiths (North County Leader), Sandra Ajuonoma (I Smile International). Adaku Ezeudo (I Smile International) and Marzena Kolano (Infinite Progress)

Seamus Devitt and Cllr Anne Devitt

Pictured at the 1 year Anniversary Celebrations of Local Enterprise Office Fingal at Malahide Castle were: Keith Brock (Assistant CEO), Bernard Brogan (Dublin GAA Football team), Oisin Geoghegan (Head of Local Enterprise Office Fingal).

21.04.2015

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Lusk Lad Takes Part In Personality Competition A local lad from Lusk is representing Dublin at the 10th Annual Mr. Personality Festival, organised by Kilkenny Macra na Feirme. The festival takes place from April 24th to 26th.

Shane Halpin is a member of the North County Macra Club.

The 21-year-old is a Farm worker/ Apprentice Mechanic.

Speaking to the County Leader, Shane said this is his first time taking part in any competition of this sort.

“I’m looking forward to the weekend, but I’d never heard of the competition until I was told to go for it!” he said. “But it’s something a bit different,

By Jennifer McShane and I’m looking forward to the weekend, it should be good fun.”

“I’m not exactly sure what’s involved yet, and people keep asking me about it. I think it’s like the Rose of Tralee - only it’s for lads without the emphasis on fashion,” he continued.

His said that hobbies and interests include driving tractors, farm work, walking, cycling and restoring vintage tractors and machinery. Shane believes he will make a good representative for Dublin because he can have the craic in every shape and form.

He added that he could

“handle every situation.”

He explained that he had been a member of

Shane Halpin from Lusk

the North County Macra Club for only a few months, but loves being a member.

“Joining the Macra is something I’d recommend to anyone,” he said. “They are a really good group of people, and if you’re from a more rural background

as I am, it gives you a chance to socialise more and meet people that you might have only seen around the community, but not had a chance to get to know.”

In terms of the contest itself, the contestants will arrive at the Springhill Court Hotel at 7 pm on April 24th with the on-stage interviews starting at 9:30pm. Former Macra President Matt O’Keeffe will be conducting the interviews. Contestant challenges take place in the hotel ballroom starting at 10.30 am the following morning.

Then each contestant will be interviewed by the judges – Carmel Brennan, Willie Holohan and Claire Brennan. The winner will be announced at the end of the weekend.

Pictured is a group of students from St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Rush at the Griffith College Faculty of Computing Science, at the Computing Workshop held at the College’s campus on South Circular Road. Over 40 lucky students attended this free workshop event which was split between an introductory presentation and a hands-on workshop.

Dr.Waseem Akhtar, Head of the Faculty of Computing Science, opened the day with a presentation on Career Options available within STEM, followed by a Games Development Workshop hosted by Games Lecturer Tim Dawson.

Council Launches Second Irish Language Scheme The County Council’s second Irish Language Scheme 20152018 was launched recently by the County Mayor, Cllr. Mags Murray in the Council Chamber, Swords. “I frequently visit the Gaeltacht and love hearing Irish being spoken,” she said. The scheme was confirmed by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht with a commencement date of 9 February this year

and will remain in place for three years. It includes a commitment to assess on an ongoing basis the level of demand for services in Irish and to ensure that anyone who wishes to conduct their business through Irish is facilitated.

Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Paul Reid added: “Fingal County Council is committed to the promotion of Irish within the Council and I would like to

Swords Residents Are An Attractive Bunch!

People from Swords consider themselves an attractive bunch. A new study reveals that those in Swords are among the top 10 most attractive groups in the country. Well, at least they think they are! This is according to dating website EliteSingles, who conducted a fun and quirky study of thousands single people to find out which Irish singles consider themselves the sexiest. The study, which was commissioned by dating site EliteSingles, looked at anonymous

congratulate Bernie Kelly our Irish Language Officer on her recent appointment.”

Irish Language courses were also offered to the County Council staff to enable them to provide services through Irish. 40 members of staff who completed this course were presented with certificates at the launch.

Copies of the Scheme have been distributed to staff and will be available in local libraries around the North County and on the County Council website, All Irish queries can be emailed to eolas@fingal.ie.

user data to see how Irish singles rate themselves on the ‘sexy’ scale.

The results reveal that, while the ‘most attractive’ title went to those in Dublin, Swords residents didn’t do too badly at all, and made it into the Top Ten, coming in sixth place. This puts them just behind those from Galway who narrowly beat out Swords to earn a place in the Top five. “Our research team analysed anonymous data from 47,300 Irish men and women and we found some great facts about who fancies themselves the most,” said Sophie Watson of EliteSingles Research. People from Cork, Limerick and Greystones made it into the Top Three while Dublin topped the poll.

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allowed for the temporary repair of the pitch and which will allow the pitch to become operational while the final settlement is still to be negotiated and concluded,” Henchy said.

“I would also like to express my gratitude and thanks to my fellow councillors for their ongoing support on the repair and opening of this facility and to especially recognise my fellow local councillor, Paul Mulville who has fully supported me in our efforts to keep this pitch and it’s repair at the top Local councillor Adrian Henchy (FF), has expressed of the agenda at Council meetings. It is also only fair his delight that Donabate’s much spoken about all- to recognise the hard work of former councillor, Gerry McGuire who I know put in signifiweather pitch will, at long last, be availcant work in getting the pitch initially and able for community use. “After many campaigned vigourously for its repair years of work to deliver a state of the art and reinstatement. I would also like to All Weather Pitch to the residents of recognise the efforts of both Senator Donabate and Portrane, I am delighted to Darragh O’Brien (FF) and TD Brendan report that the temporary works, which Ryan (Lab) who worked very hard behind will allow the pitch to become fully operathe scenes in lobbying officials to have tional are now fully complete,” he told the pitch reinstated,” he added. the County Leader.

The pitch will cater for everyone espe“The carpet has been fully repaired and cially during dark evenings and thoroughly cleaned and both the flood inclement weather but it is critically lighting and the irrigation systems are Cllr. Adrian Henchy important that the pitch is properly used fully reinstated and in working order to allow the pitch to fully function as an All Weather and respected. I ask, please to show patience and understanding with the staff of Donabate Portrane facility,” he explained.

On Monday afternoon the pitch contractor handed Community Centre in insuring from day one that the over the facility to the County Council and the ETB. pitch is used correctly, properly maintained and According to Henchy, the pitch should be ready for respected at all times,” Henchy concluded, use very soon.

“I would like firstly to thank everyone in our community for the enormous patience and understanding Rush Youth Cafe are looking for Volunteer over the last four years following the catastrophic leaders (minimum age 18). The cafe opens flood in October 2011 which put the pitch out of every Friday for members age 14 to 18 and commission and the unfortunate subsequent wranprovides a fun safe place to meet. Can you give gling between various parties which significantly your time for one week in the month? If delayed the pitch repair and reopening. I would like interested please contact Muriel 0862251312 to thank the Chief Executives, Senior Directors and or alternatively please drop in any Friday Staff of both Fingal County Council and the ETB for night between 7.30 and 10pm to Martins Shop coming together to negotiate a settlement which in Rush.

Donabate All Weather Pitch Finally Ready For Use

Youth Cafe In Rush

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New Mental Health Awareness Group In Donabate Donabate and Portrane have established a new group to support and promote positive mental health within the community.

This group is called ‘Donabate and Portrane Mental Health.’

“Donabate and Portrane have a proud and long tradition in the area of mental health through its association with St. Ita’s and it’s community mental health services.

Mental health continues to

Pictured are the St Finian's Swords under 8 boys team, who played in their first football medal blitz in very wild conditions in Malahide Castle on recently. Twenty-three brave players took on both the weather and teams from Na Fianna and St Sylvester's. The boys showed their full range of skills and kicked some great scores. Fantastic skills and great teamwork were on display in all sections of the park Also pictured are team mentors

TRANSPORT MANAGER CPC FULL TIME COURSE STARTS Dublin, Wednesday 13th May

Swords Students Bid For ‘Top Problem Solver’ Two competitors from St Finian’s Community College Swords, were among Ireland’s top 100 young problem solvers who pitted their wits against the languages of the world at the national final of the ADAPT All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad at Dublin City University.

The top four performers will be selected to represent Ireland at the International Linguistics Olympiad in Bulgaria in July.

From a starting line-up of more than 4,000 secondary school students from 161 schools, two Swords decoders – Jordyn Maguire and Ryan Tiamberg of St Finian’s Community

College Swords – were among the top 100 students nationally who qualified for the national final. Run by the Science Foundation Ireland funded ADAPT Centre, the All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad aims to identify Ireland’s leading language sleuths by challenging students to use their ingenuity to decipher complex puzzles in unfamiliar languages.

Competing individually and in teams, students engaged in a series of brain-teasing challenges such as unlocking the secrets of ancient scripts and deciphering numerical spy codes. Key requirements were computational thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to think “outside the box”. The contest aims to inspire the next generation of multilingual technology graduates, who possess a combination of language competency and problem solving expertise.

Golf For Beginners In Skerries

Emmaus, Ennis Lane, Lissenhall, Swords, Co. Dublin Telephone: (01) 8700050 Fax: (01) 8408248 Email: reservations@emmauscentre.ie • Web: www.emmauscentre.ie

Skerries Golf Club has just announced its hugely popular annual six weeks programme “Golf for Beginners” ( for Adults) commencing in early May. Enquiries welcome at: 8491567

Facilitator: Sally Hyland Cost €55.00 Light Lunch Included

9th May – Personal and Ancestral Healing One day Workshop Facilitators: Fr Jim Cogley Cost €55.00 Light Lunch Included

9th May – Mindfulness for Health Half day Workshop 10am – 2pm Facilitator: Fidelma Farley Cost: €40 Light Lunch Included

9th May – Half day Workshop for Carers Facilitator: Dee Hennessy – Cost: €35 Light Lunch Included

10th May - Take Action and Transform everyday Stress with EFT Tapping Facilitator: Aisling Killoran & Ray Manning Cost: €65.00 Light Lunch included in cost.

Contact us on: 01 8700050 For further information or log onto www.emmauscentre.ie

also leave them vulnerable to mental health issues themselves,” they continued.

“As a group, we would like to promote positive mental health in the community through various strategies to create an awareness and understanding that “it is okay not to feel okay.” Please feel free to contact us for further information or if we can be of any assistance at: dpmentalhealth@gmail.com, ” they concluded.

P u p i l s Ro l l U p Their Sleeves In Malahide

The Malahide Tidy Towns group have been actively preparing for the upcoming national Tidy Towns competition, and recently enlisted some young helpers for their recent clean up around the village.

The children from

Up-Coming Programmes, Courses & Workshops At Emmaus 25th April – “In the deserts of the heart let the healing fountains Start” One Day Retreat

be one of the most challenging issues facing our community today, with mental health affecting one in four people,” explained the group.

“Any individual can be affected by mental health issues and like a lot of communities we have lost loved ones and people from our area with the most serious aspect of mental health difficulties – suicide. This can have a devastating impact on families and communities left behind and can

Adults & Children

€500 Off Full Invisalign Treatment At Swords Orthodontics During April 2015

fourth class in St Oliver Plunkett’s school were more than happy to roll up their sleeves and help clean up their town.

Oliver Plunkett’s school in Malahide are committed to the protecting its local environment and that was evident as members of the school’s fourth class joined the Tidy Towns for a street clean-up recently.

The young volunteers cleaned up litter and all kinds of unsightly material from the village and left the place looking spick and span, thanks to their great efforts. As a

thank you for all their hard work and efforts, Tidy Towns volunteer and local environmentalist, Heidi Bedell had a rather unusual gift for the children. She has a licence to collect frog spawn and donated some of her collection to the school to aid in an environmental project that Oliver Plunkett’s is involved in.

It was a day of hard work but also a lot of fun for the young volunteers who got a break from the classroom to get into the open and make a real contribution to their town and the environment they live in.

Getting Stuck In: St Oliver Plunkett School, Malahide pupils, Nicole Markey, Gavin O'Neill and Aoibhean O'Toole are pictured lending a helping hand to Malahide Tidy Towns group at a recent clean-up in the town.

Invisalign Open Day with Dr Stephen Murray Wednesday 29th April 2015 6pm – 8pm By appointment only Call 01 810 7622 2nd Floor, 17 Main St. Swords, Co. Dublin Tel: 01 8107622

www.swordsortho.com

Victory For Malahide Club Congratulations to Malahide Rugby Football Club (RFC), Spencer Cup Winners recently, on a cool and blustery afternoon in Sutton. In the 50th year of this competition Malahide RFC came away with the honours against a strong Coolmine team.

21.04.2015

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Councillor Fearful For Safety

By Patrick Finnegan

Pictured are teachers and students from Balbriggan Community College, as they protest about delays in securing the much needed gym in the school. Included are teachers, Kay Collins, Damien Richardson, Ann Mannion, Sean Pierce, Michelle Condra and Tom Poynton, with students, Dammy Olaniyi and Rayo Balogun

Major Protest Over Lack Of School Facilities In Balbriggan Balbriggan Community College’s school community recently came together on Friday, last to “demonstrate about the lack of sporting, recreational and PE facilities provided by the Department of Education/DDLETB for the school over the past number of years.� “It is hoped that this show of solidarity from the parents, staff and students of the college will highlight the anger, dissatisfaction and frustration at the current deplorable situation,� teacher Martine O’Brien told the County Leader. “The blatant indifference and lack of balance displayed by the authorities in the provision of PE facilities within the town is causing huge concern and placing our students at a serious disadvantage,� she added. “Students at the school have had no PE since September 2014 and only a token PE Programme since September 2012,� Martine explained. “A new sports hall has been proposed and planning obtained since 2006 in a partnership involving the County Council, Department of Education and the Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Educational Board but has not been built, and the reasons for the delay are not clear and the lack of consultation from the

authorities to the school is hugely disappointing,� she said. “Other schools in the town have seen PE facilities built or installed over the interim period and this has placed our college, one of the oldest and longest established in the town, at a serious disadvantage.� “The staff and students have taken this action to highlight the problem with the express hope that some clarity can be brought by the authorities regarding the situation. What we want to know is, what is the overall plan for the school going forward? And we want clear timeframes that will be met,� she concluded.

Another teacher, Sean Pierce, who is the PE teacher at the school told the County Leader, “The facility we had closed down three years ago and was due to be replaced, through various plans by the County Council, the Education and Training Board and Department of Education. Nothing has happened since and we are worried about the lack of movement. All we need to know is if the gym is going to be delivered. There have been a number of false starts, including the fact that we were promised that our facility would be delivered before any similar development in the town.

The fact that Ardgillan College now have their gym up and running puts the lie to that. We are concerned about the implications for the school and all we need is clarity. We appear to be forgotten,� he said.

The action of a small minority of anti-water charges people which caused disruption at the last full council meeting at County Hall, Swords, is causing concern for a number of councillors.

One councillor, Anne Devitt who is a veteran of 30 years council service told the County Leader that, for the first time in her political career, she felt intimidated. “As each month passes the intimidation seems to be getting worse, and at the most recent meeting last week, I was so intimidated Cllr. Devitt that I walked back into the offices and asked one of the more robust male councillors if he would escort me to my car, because I was fearful for my safety and the fear that my car would be damaged. In 30 years, this is the first time I have felt like this. They say it is just peaceful protest, but if it makes an experienced woman like me afraid, then I don’t regard that as peaceful,� she said.

It’s now gotten to the level of cat calling and I’m told that there is a defamatory song about me, which I won’t listen to. I have no control over Irish Water, and neither has

07

any councillor in the chamber, so it’s not my fault that the motion is not being reached on the agenda. You cannot have the council agenda being dictated by protesters outside the council. If this is the case, then I no longer wish to be part of such a council. Fingal County Council does a great amount of good work and it’s being overshadowed by this small group. This is not just about me, as there are a number of other councillors, both male and female who are beginning to feel intimidated,� she said.

Cllr. Martin The County Leader spoke to local councillor, Barry Martin (People Before Profit), about the fears of Cllr Devitt.

He said, “The vast majority of the protesters are family members and are peaceful people. There’s nothing wrong with political protest, as without this we would not have a democracy. I don’t agree with non-political, personalised protest. I think people have a right to protest outside the offices of Fingal County Council, but it should be politically directed and not personalised. We are entitled to criticise a political stance, but personalised stuff should not be part of it,� he said.

Malachy Quinn, Sinn Fein councillor was in broad agreement with Cllr Martin and said, “I support peaceful protest, but not intimidation. I’m not in favour of personalised attacks on councillors, or council staff, but I fully back Cllr. Quinn peaceful protest,� he said.

Fingal Development Plan 2017-2023

History Of Lusk Primary School A primary school has existed in Lusk village since 1823. A book will be published late this year on the History of Lusk Primary School. As a preamble to the publication a ‘talk/presentation’ will be given

by Dermot Russell, on Tuesday, April 28th at 8.00pm in the Parish Centre (Old School) Some old school photos from the early 1900’s will be available for viewing. You may find a record of some of your ancestors/relatives. All interested parties are invited to come along to the presentation.

Safetalk Course In Lusk

seems set to sanction will not provide the speed or carrying capacity that the community needs.� “The whole of the North County needs better interconnection. If the optimised Metro proposal had a has outlined his preference for connection with the rail line at a transport option which will Donabate it would open up fail to meet the needs of a Swords and the airport to all growing north Dublin popula- the towns along the coast of the North County such tion. As the Green Party as Balbriggan, outlined in its submisSkerries, Rush, sion to the NTA, Metro Malahide and vice North represents the versa,� he continued. best solution to the “With long term impending, inevitable interest rates at record transport bottleneck low levels, this was the which will develop as time to think big and the area’s population Joe O’Brien invest in our future in a expands dramatically,�

O’Brien said. “It’s clear that really ambitious way. Instead the best option for the Fine Gael and Labour are Swords-Airport-City Centre going for a cheaper option corridor is the optimised which will ultimately leave us Metro. The proposed Luas line all short-changed,� O’Brien that Minister O’Donohoe concluded.

Government Approach To Transport Will Fail North County - O’Brien Green Party representative for the North County, Joe O’Brien, has stated his disappointment over reports that Minister Donohoe possibly intends to proceed with a sub-optimal solution for the North County’s transport needs. In a submission to the National Transport Authority (NTA) on its recent North Dublin Transport Study, the respondents in a Green Party survey outlined a clear preference for Metro North, believing that it is the best option to serve the area’s current and future transport needs, according to O’Brien. “It’s disappointing to hear that reportedly Minister Donohoe

Comeand andjoin joinus us Come from7.30pm 7.30pmtoto10pm 10pmfor forthe theFingal Fingal (pre-draft) (pre-draft) from DevelopmentPlan Planpublic publicconsultations consultations Development At the following Locations: • Swords and Central Fingal: Tuesday 21st April 2015 at the Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords • Balbriggan and North Fingal: Thursday 23rd April 2015 at the Bracken Court Hotel, Balbriggan • Blanchardstown and West Fingal: Tuesday 28th April 2015 at Fingal County Council’s Civic 2É?FH %ODQFKDUGVWRZQ

Make your Submissions

From Friday 20th March to Friday 15th May 2015 (both dates inclusive), Online via ZZZ Č´QJDO LH GHYSODQ; By email GHYSODQ#Č´QJDO LH; In writing to the Director of Planning and Strategic Infrastructure, Fingal County Council, County Hall, Main Street, Swords, Co. Dublin.

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There will be a SafeTALK course held in the Parish Hall on Tuesday 28th April at 6.30pm. The course will be provided free by trained personnel from the HSE to teach participants how to recognise the signs of suicide. The course will take approximately 31/2 hours to complete and participants will receive a certificate at conclusion.

Refreshments will be provided on the night. Limited places are available and it is requested that only those who are available to attend sign up for the course. If there is a large number wishing to participate then a second course may be organised. Places will be given on a first come basis.

08

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Chamber Business Breakfast hosted by F.M Downes

Bhrona Long (Aviva Insurance), Siobhan Kinsella (President Fingal Dublin Chamber) and Cathal O'Bradáin (FM Downes)

Fingal Dublin Chamber held a special Business Breakfast Presentation with FM Downes, Private Health Insurance specialists at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport last week Guest speakers included Libby Downes of FM Downes and Bhrona Long, Business Training Consultant and Business Coach FM Downes & Co. are Insurance and Mortgage brokers who specialise in Private Health Insurance and want to ensure that Chamber members and their staff are informed and fully aware of their best options prior to the government introducing Life Time Community Rating for Health Insurance from 30th April. Libby Downes was on hand to offer insights into how best to achieve the best options available and to ensure that you are not paying more than you need for health insurance.

Having a healthy lifestyle is also important and Bhrona Long, an independent Business Training Consultant and Business Coach delivered an inspirational talk on ‘Balancing Our Working and Personal Life.’

Cleaner Communities Awards Launched The 2015 Cleaner Communities Awards were launched on the 16th of April. This is the 40th year of the awards scheme which rewards residents, community groups and businesses for their efforts in maintaining a litter-free and wellpresented community or place of business around the North County.

Skerries Tidy Towns were the 2014 Cleaner Communities Overall Winner. “Skerries Tidy Towns so obviously make a great effort on improvements to the town as can be seen by how superb the village is looking,” said County Mayor, Cllr. Mags Murray. “They carry out regular clean ups and it is a great way to get neighbours to know each other, to foster a community spirit and to get people involved in their local area. As a society we owe a great deal

21.04.2015

of gratitude to those people who encourage the rest of us to take pride in our surroundings,” she added.

Edwina Dunford, Environmental Education Officer with the County Council, encouraged people to get involved in the awards. “We especially encourage local businesses to enter Cleaner Communities”, Edwina said.

“The competition has a broad range of categories, so you can enter your garden, your business, your housing estate or indeed even just part of your estate,” she explained.

“The competition has been a great success since it started 40 years ago and we want to make 2015 an even better competition,” added Edwina. “This is your chance to get credit for all the hard work carried out during the year, so I’d encourage all to enter. If you’re not in you can’t win!”

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 22nd May.

Tony Lambert (CEO Fingal Dublin Chamber) and Debbie Tracey (Ardmac)

Pictured here are the members of Skerries Tidy Towns, the overall winners of the Fingal Cleaner Communities Awards 2014 with CEO of the County Council, Paul Reid and County Mayor, Cllr Mags Murray.

Siobhan O'Donnell (DAA), Ayesha Thompson (Osborne Recruitment) and David Marshall (Respicare)

Tony Lambert (CEO Fingal Dublin Chamber), Libby Downes (FM Downes) and Mark Gallagher (Bank of Ireland, Swords)

Freda Farrell (Fingal Dublin Chamber), Pat Cussen (Radisson Blu Hotel) and David Parsons (Aramex)

Brendan McCarthy (BMC Coaching and Consulting) and Dick Hooper (Permanent TSB, Swords)

Swords Youths Create Smoking Awareness

editing. In total this year, 36 groups have received funding from the Society and a further 15 groups have received training support. The Society has awarded over €123,000 to youth groups and organisations through the X-HALE Youth Awards to create smoking related community

Members of Swords/Baldoyle of smoking. The members of Youth Service recently took Swords/Baldoyle Youth part in a film making work- Service were among those who shop, to work on their entry as attended the filming workshop part of the X-HALE Youth in preparation of their film Awards. This unique project was done by the local group to create more awareness of smoking in their own community.

X-HALE is an initiative developed by the Irish Cancer Society to encourage young people around the locality and beyond to take action on the issue of smoking in their own communities. As part of X-HALE, the Irish Cancer Society hosts Pictured here are Aisling Farrelly, Jennifer O’Connor, Sean Tierney and Alan Stewart and the annual X-HALE Shona Whelan from Swords/Baldoyle Youth Service. The group recently who recently a film-making workshop ahead of their entry to the X-HALE Youth Awards Youth Awards which attended 2015. sees local youth groups from around the country enter entries to the X-HALE Youth awareness projects since the community action projects and Awards in the Summer to learn initiative started five years film projects around the issue about film producing and ago.

Local Minister Launches Early Years Capital Programme Local Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr. James Reilly has announced the launch of capital funding totalling €7 million for Early Years services.

“I am happy to be in the position to announce a new scheme of capital funding for early years services. This demonstrates the on-going commitment of this Government to developing quality childcare provision in Ireland,” Reilly said. The Minister announced that €5 million was being made available for grants specifically for community/not for profit childcare services.

This local funding will provide grant

aid, in the region of €500,000, for significant upgrades of community and not-for-profit childcare services, such as major refurbishment or relocation to new premises. Also under this strand of funding, grants of up to €50,000 will be available for essential maintenance, or works undertaken to improve the energy performance of childcare facilities. “I am committed to securing the sustainability of community and not for profit childcare services, particularly in disadvantaged areas around the locality and beyond,” he added.

The remaining €2 million in capital funding is being made available for both private and community childcare facilities to access grants of up to €500 for quality improvement measures, specifically in the area of upgrading IT facilities. Further information on the EYC2015 programme and information on how to make an application can be found on the Pobal website.

CORRECTION We wish to acknowledge Donabate Community College Transition Year journalism students Sarah McGrath and Ellen Hegarty for interviewing fellow student Luke Rock in the article ‘Donabate Student Secures Place On National Basketball Team’ in last week’s edition of the County Leader. The girls composed a well written, insightful interview, and we wish to fully acknowledge their work. It is encouraging to see that so many talented students are considering pursuing journalism as potential careers.

21.04.2015

Balbriggan Campaign Gathers Momentum Balbriggan based group Remember Us have been extremely busy of late, organising various activities and fundraising for their permanent headquarters. They ran a very successful Easter Camp recently with 100 members and their families participating in it. They also had a day out in Dublin Zoo, Newbridge House and Farm where members went on an Easter egg hunt, played games and saw the many animals on display.

Next up, the group’s Cool Rocker members and their families went on a family respite break to the Connacht Hotel in Galway. The trip saw the members go shopping, bowling and sight seeing.

Activities for the coming weeks include, dance, snag golf, table cricket, kids bricks, yoga, tag rugby, gymnastics, a trip to Funtasia Bettystown for bowling, play and rides and more. The group would like to say a big thank you to all their volunteers for giving up their time and supporting members in their various activities/outings, and to all the

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tutors and venues for their support.

There was also great excitement when Irish TV paid a visit to film the group doing various activities and an overview of the group.

The group want to say a very big thank you to the Walt Disney Company who sponsored a special showing of Frozen and to IMC Cinemas, who hosted this fundraising event on their behalf. The event raised a total of €1,610 which will go towards the purchase of a new home for the club and the group of very special people.

Remember Us would like to thank Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce for their recent donation of €2,500. “We would particularly like to thank CEO Tony Lambert and President Siobhan Kinsella and of course all those who contributed to this donation. Your ongoing support is appreciated by everyone here at Remember Us. Thank you all again for your support which is appreciated by everyone here,” they said.

“Our fundraising efforts to buy a

Super-Fast Broadband On The Way S i x c o m m u n i t i e s i n t h e towns to get a new superN o r t h C o u n t y w i l l b e fast broadband service, will be positive for among the first in local communithe country to ties. receive super“Balbriggan, fast broadband M a l a h i d e , service. This is, Portmarnock, according to Rush, Skerries and deputy Alan Swords will be Farrell (FG). among the first He said the fact Alan Farrell TD towns to receive a that Balbriggan, new super-fast M a l a h i d e , Portmarnock, Rush, broadband service this Skerries and Swords will year under a joint venture the ESB and be among the first 50 by

permanent home for our group have reached €290k, so we are nearly half way there. thank you to everyone who has supported us to date. We look forward to the continued support from the people of the north county and surrounding areas to help us to achieve our goal,” said the group.

The local group have organised fundraising events over the coming weeks, including a coffee morning in PA Hair in Balbriggan who are organising in aid of the group, there will be a bag pack in Dunnes Stores Pavillions on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th May, Malahide Lions Club are organising an evening with the Garda Band in Malahide Rubgy Club on Thursday 14th May, and finally, they have their annual leisure cycle coming up on Saturday, 23rd May. The group also want to thank the following: their patrons Progressive Credit Union, Andrews Spar, Tony Murphy, Colin Hughes Lec ltd, Country Crest and to all friends of Remember Us, Supervalu Lusk, also to Gerry Andrews of Supervalu Balbriggan for their continued support. They also want to mention all 22 participants who completed the Skerries Weight Loss Challenge on behalf of Remember Us and Skerries Rugby Club.

Vodafone,” he said.

“These six communities will be the first in the whole of Dublin to have access to this service. As a result, the broadband speed which will be available to customers in the North County will be at least four times faster than that available in Dublin City.”

“This will be great news, not only for those who use broadband in their own homes, but also to businesses in our local area.

The provision of broadband speeds which are on par with some of the world’s leading cities will support local businesses and will increase their

potential for growth,” he continued.

“This initiative will be complementary to the Government’s National Broadband Plan which aims to ensure that every home in Ireland has access to broadband by 2020. The €450 million investment by ESB and Vodafone in broadband infrastructure throughout the country will contribute to our continued economic recovery. The provision of super-fast broadband will assist in attracting more businesses to the area, which will increase job creation in local communities throughout the North County,” he concluded.

QUALITY, VALUE AND STYLE Portmarnock School

Shortlisted For Award Portmarnock Community School is one of 11 Dublin schools and youth organisations shortlisted for Young Social Innovator of the Year 2015. It is the only one from the North County to be included in the shortlist. A total of 61 projects were shortlisted from over 400 entries and the overall winner will be announced at the Annual Awards and Showcase, which takes place on Wednesday, 6th May in City West Hotel.

The Young Social Innovators of the Year 2015 Awards and Showcase is the biggest celebration of social innovation in Ireland and one of the largest youth events in the country with over 5,000 young people attending. The event gives young people from all over the country the opportunity to exhibit their project work through presentations, posters and exhibition stands as well as featuring lots of indoor and outdoor educational, social and interactive activities and events. This year over 6000 young people have been working hard on projects to create awareness about social issues such as health, homelessness, domestic violence, LGBT rights, disability, safety and bullying. At the Young Social Innovators 2015 Awards and Showcase shortlisted teams will get the opportunity to present their projects to judging panels and compete for an award in a number of categories.

As well as the overall Young Social Innovators of the Year 2015 title awards, awards will also be presented for the best social innovation projects.

Portmarnock Community School have been shortlisted for their project work, ‘Making Our World One World, Global Citizen Mapping the Future.’

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Pictured at the launch of the Fingal Development Plan 2017-2023 at the Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords on Monday last are, Harry McLauchlann Planner. Gingal County Council), Tony Lambert (CEO Fingal Dublin Chamber), Paul Reid (Chief Executive, Fingal County Council), Rachel Kenny (Senior Planner Fingal County Council) and Gilbert Power (Director of Services, Fngal County Council)

Thank You The Sisters of the Holy Faith wish to thank most sincerely all who so generously supported their recent annual Good Friday fundraising activity in aid of Trócaire in Skerries and beyond. A total of €2,216 was raised for the charity. A special word of thanks to all who helped on the day and to the management of Gerry’s Supermarket who provided the freshly baked rolls to accompany the home-made soup.

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Chamber Congratulates Swords Firm On 40th Anniversary

HOROSCOPES AQUARIUS

21.04.2015

Jan 20 - Feb 18

It’s easy to say that letting go of the past is a prelude to a wonderful future. But relinquishing elements of your life that are as reassuring as they’re familiar is quite another matter. Signs indicate not to do anything drastic.

PISCES

Feb 19 - Mar 20

A rewarding week when dealing with personal relationships, when intriguing developments force you into action. In fact, you’ll enjoy dealing with these issues so much that you wonder why you delayed for so long.

ARIES

Mar 21 - Apr 20

Once you begin to discuss problems openly you realise how willing others are to help you resolve them. In fact, this is what helps you this week to tackle dilemmas that you thought you’d just have to live with.

TAURUS

Apr 21 - May 20

The troubles you had last week, especially in the workplace, are about to be completely reversed, as those who thought they’d got away with their misdemeanours discover that they’ll have to pay the piper after all.

Gemini

May 21 - Jun 20

With work-related matters things are about to play into your hands. This so improves your position - and your spirits - that you can well afford to wait until next week, when those around you will finally see things your way.

Cancer

Jun 21 - Jul 22

This is a week when you begin to revitalise elements of your life that you’d given up on ever being exciting. And, better yet, you realise how unimportant difficult and interfering people are in the scheme of things.

Leo

Jul 23 - Aug 23

With all aspects of your life this week, your mood is grim. Complain if you want. Just keep in mind that, by the time next week, with its spectacular planetary activity, is over, you’ll be singing a much happier tune.

Virgo

Aug 24 - Sep 22

Having laboured over decisions involving work, you’re in no mood for change. However, indications are that these decisions are out of your hands - but, the disruption may not be as bad as you first thought.

Libra

Sep 23 - Oct 22

Don’t be too disheartened if the week seems slow - as change is coming. So much so, that with the week’s far more agreeable planetary activity, you’re able to move swiftly to take advantage of new prospects on offer.

Scorpio

Oct 23 - Nov 22

This is a week when you should be philosophical about downturns - and keep your own counsel.

With next week’s far more salubrious planetary activity, you’ll be glad you didn’t say everything you were thinking.

Sagittarius

Nov 23 - Dec 21

However unsettling the outcome of one particular confrontation, finally having all the facts out in the open will come as a relief. Still, you should handle the situation carefully and slowly as things are bound to be confused.

Capricorn

Dec 22 - Jan 19

You will be seeking reassurance with a business matter. But what you need to do is exercise patience to bide your time - until you see the stunning opportunities accompanying next week’s considerably better planetary activity.

Balbriggan All-Weather Pitches Are Officially Open The latest addition to the sporting facilities in the North County is a full-sized gaelic and soccer, floodlit all-weather pitches at Bremore in Balbriggan. The new facility was officially opened on Wednesday, 15th April last by County Mayor, Cllr Mags Murray.

“Over the past decade the County Council has been involved in the design, support, operation and management of community facilities across the North County. This facility will be a big asset to the people of Balbriggan and beyond,” said the Mayor.

The majority of the funding for the project which cost in excess of €1m was provided by the County Council. A grant was also obtained from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport towards the costs.

Chief Executive of the County Council, Paul Reid added: “I am delighted to provide further investment in Balbriggan, and a new Community Centre will open here later in the year.” The facility will be operated on behalf of the County Council by a company comprising members of O’Dwyers GAA Club and Balbriggan Football Club, who have uniquely come together to manage the venture. The facility will be available for rent by clubs and groups through a website booking system. Local schools in the area can also avail of the facility free of charge.

Local Minister for Children, Dr James Reilly, President of the GAA Aogán Ó Fearghail and Vice-President of the FAI, Donal Conway attended the opening.

They were full of praise for the efforts of both clubs in coming together to ensure that players from both codes can enjoy this wonderful new facility in the heart of Balbriggan. “The significance of this great facility will serve the Community and all the children of Balbriggan and support the development of sport in the area,” Conway said.

Pictured at the official opening of Bremore All-Weather football pitch in Balbriggan, to be shared by O'Dwyers GAA Club and Balbriggan FC, are Richard Barrett (Chairperson Balbriggan FC), Donal Conway (Vice President FAI), County Mayor, Cllr Mags Murray, Paul Reid (Chief Executive Fingal County Council), Aogan O'Fearghail (President GAA) and Liam Howley (Chairperson O'Dwyers GAA Club)

Hayes Drops In For A Chat

Brian D. O'Brien & Co Solicitors have just celebrated 40 yeras in business in Swords.

Brian (on left) is pictured here with Fingal Dublin Chamber President, Siobhan Kinsella and CEO, Tony Lambert

In this day and age, it is heartening to find that, despite recessions along the way, a local company has managed to reach 40 years in business. Brian D O’Brien Solicitors operating from Main Street in Swords, are one such company.

They have just celebrated 40 years of successful business at their premises at 23 Main Street, Swords. The company is comprised of solicitor, Sharon Devine and two secretaries, Paula Redmond and Helen Ryan. They are a traditional solicitors practice, engaging in sales and purchase of property, wills and probates, debt collection, road traffic accidents, family law and divorce, as well as employment law and dealing with cases in the local district court.

Brian was understandably delighted to celebrate such a landmark anniversary and said, “I’m particularly delighted to be a member of the local Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce, who have connectivity between the EU and the average voter. He told me he was committed to communicating with the people but that the media in general put little store on European affairs. He

By Cathal Boland Brian Hayes, the Fine Gael MEP recently dropped into the offices of North County Leader for an informal chat as part of his ongoing communication strategy with his electors. Brian, as those who read this column well know is a very active member of the parliament. Since his election he’s not only spoken on European issues but also speaks out on matters here in Ireland. So during our meeting I bounced a few balls and he bounced them right back.

I asked having account of his high profile if he had his eye on the job of Dublin Lord Mayor, should it become a directly elected position.

He says not, but that he fully supports it becoming a position elected by all the citizens of the greater Dublin area.

MEP Brian Hayes paid a visit to the North County Leader office last week. He is pictured here with our European columnist, Cathal Boland

Having account of suggestions that Hayes decide to focus on European politics as his leader Enda Kenny was unlikely, irrespective of Brian’s undoubted ability or work rate, to ever appoint him to a full Ministerial position, I asked: If he was disappointed that his party leader did not become the President of the EU

Council thereby creating an opening here in Dublin. Brian assured me that he was delighted that Kenny made the right decision to remain in the role of Taoiseach and he looked forward to Enda doing a back to back and been re elected Taoiseach after next year’s General Election.

We spoke of the lack of

noted that the North County Leader was one of the few weekly papers that had regular European content. He did accept that the EU Commission itself needed to be more proactive in getting the EU reported on.

I mentioned Ukraine and I don’t think I’d have gotten a sharper reaction. Brian pulled no

given me wonderful support for many years now. My profile is out there with other companies through their magazine. At present, I’m the elder lemon where solicitors are concerned, where only Bob McGonagle was here at the time.

However Swords is a vastly changed town in the intervening 40 years and I look forward to the company surviving for many years o come,” he said.

Siobhán Kinsella, President Fingal Dublin Chamber, on congratulating Brian on his achievement said, “A founding member and committed Chamber member, it is fantastic to see Brian’s business going from strength to strength serving both Swords and the North County.

Brian has built an honest, open and thriving practice in the heart of Main Street, Swords since opening his doors in 1975 through his hard work and determination. On behalf of the Chamber, we wish Brian continued success for the future.”

punches he described Putin, the Russian President, as the “most dangerous man since Hitler” Brian believes that Europe must stand up to Russia and if we do not, then, Putin will feel he is free to take what he wants as he attempts to rebuild the Russian federation. Last year Brian was appointed Vice Chair of the Iraq Delegation and he has an obvious understanding of the importance of Europe providing leadership in assisting the new Iraq government to rebuild their country and the role that Europe must play in the defeat of ISIS. This led me to the issue of illegal migrants who seek shelter in the EU, many of whom are war refugees resulting from the actions of ISIS. Brian showed great understanding of the problem and the element of disconnect by some of the member states to the full extent of that problem and the action required to address it.

Can Ireland continue to punch beyond it weight?

Brian thinks so. He suggests that Ireland needs to build strategic

alliances with newer member states. He points out that these countries have a natural synergy with Ireland. He says their history, e c o n o m i c challenges/development are not dissimilar to our own so common policy positions within the EU would prove beneficial to such a grouping.

I asked him for his views on TTIP the trade negotiation between Europe and the US. He told me forcibly that he was an enthusiastic supporter of it and that it had the potential to bring considerable jobs into the Irish economy. When I put it to him that the StopTTIP campaign seemed to have support right across all member states He said “that some people protested against everything if it wasn’t TTIP it would be something else and if they couldn’t find that they would invent something”. Brian was positive as to the benefits of TTIP for the North County highlighting how agriculture is set to grow under this and general European policy. So Brian brought good news for the North County.

21.04.2015

Advertising Feature

Now that our evenings are becoming a little longer and brighter, it’s a sure sign that Spring is well and truly here. This makes it an ideal time of year for those of you who are planning a spring wedding.

Your wedding is one of the most exciting days of your life which can also be very stressful thanks to the 101 details that needs to be organised. Follow some of tips below to ensure you have a Spring wedding to remember and a stress free day.

colour to the wedding dress. Today, many brides choose to have a sash or embroidery of a different colour on their dresses.

There are certainly quite a few unique and stylish spring colours to choose from. Shops in the North County have an array of stunning dresses for you to choose from.

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flowers or spring scenery on them.

Many newlyweds are opting to send pocket invitations these days.

There are a ton of different wedding invitations with beautiful flowers on them and the North County has an array of shops that will be able to make you pick the perfect invites. Alternatively, some couples might choose to get the less expensive, more affordable wedding invitations. This way, they can have more money to spend on the spring wedding decorations!

The Wedding Dress Part of the reason why spring weddings are so popular is because of the wonderful weather! Of course this depends on where you live, but generally speaking, spring weather is very pleasant and fresh.

Because the temperatures are typically not too hot and not too cold, there are a lot of options for the wedding dress. It is best to choose a more versatile dress that can suite you in both warm and cold weather. (Maybe try to find a dress that is light but that can be paired with a wrap.)

Spring weddings also allow room for adding an elegant touch of

Today’s weddings are becoming more and more colourful. You are free to let your imagination run wild and pick some bright and cheerful colours for your bridesmaid and/or guest outfits.

One could come up with a unique colour pattern for both the bridesmaids and the groomsmen. Guests could also come up with creative, tasteful outfits perfect for that spring wedding.

Blooming Flowers You can save a lot of money on your wedding by purchasing in season flowers. In fact, you can save even more money if you can manage to work out a deal to use the

church’s flowers (if getting married in a church). Typically churches have lots of flowers for special Sunday services such as Easter Sunday.

Many shops here in the North County will give you a special deal on your floral arrangements and have a great and varied selection too.

Spring Wedding Decorations Just like with wedding favours, there are a number of spring

wedding decorations out there.

Try purchasing decorations that are pastel blue, pink or lavender.

You could also put seasonal flowers up as centrepieces at the reception tables.

Instead of having wedding guests throw rice or bird seed, you could have them throw rose petals.

When it comes to having a spring themed wedding, you are only limited by your imagination!

serving strawberries, mangoes, apricots or pomegranates.

Get out there and have a unique, spring wedding using some of these ideas!

Remember, you are only limited by your imagination, so think of creative ways to make your wedding special and different from the rest! Have a spring wedding!

You can make your big day very different to the usual celebration by changing a few

Menu Ideas The icing on the cake for a spring themed wedding could be your menu.

Try serving fresh young vegetables such as sugar snap peas, baby carrots, baby asparagus or potatoes. You could even serve fresh carrot cake, yummy! Fresh fruits would also be quite festive. Consider

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11

little details. Many couples have boxes of matches placed in front of each guest with their name on it.

There are lots of little things , such as this that can make a difference. Some couples put disposable cameras on the tables, these are collected when the wedding is over and the bride and groom can then to see the photographs their guests have taken on their special day.

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It contains SPF 50 and containing more than twice the European standard of UVA protection. Containing high quality mattifying powders, this formula is Non-greasy, easyglide with no perfume and no parabens. It was tested under dermatological control.

Ample parking and plenty of shopping on Strand Street

The town of Skerries is a picturesque and historic seaside town in the northern part of the county. It’s location is one of the best, as its only 35 minutes from the city centre,

yet has the aspect of being much further away. In the last decade, Skerries has always been a traditional place where people came on holidays through the

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From its beginnings, Giorgio Armani make-up revolutionised cosmetics, introducing the innovative products Luminous Silk foundation and Fluid Sheer. Luminous Silk foundation features a formula that creates an extremely delicate effect that feels like silk. Its translucent finish, flawless radiance and palette of natural-looking shades – to match any skin tone – make this must-have the indispensible ally of backstage make-up artists around the world. It remains iconic to this day. The equally successful Fluid Sheer incomparably reveals the skin’s radiance – like a veil in shimmery organza.

Curvy Girls Tempted To Try Modelling Life affirming, confidence boosting, door opening, and loads of fun is how former winners and participants describe the annual ‘Face of Tempted’ plus-size model competition.

Celebrating body confidence is at the core of the Tempted Boutiques’ competition, which was launched to find new plus-size modelling talent. Fifteen women will be selected for the final of the Face of Tempted, to be held on Sunday 17th May this year, in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry. Nine curvy ladies who were finalists in the Face of Tempted competition over the past three years are now regularly modelling, so the competition is a proven launch pad for a modelling career.

The Face of Tempted, which attracts hundreds of entries, will be judged by leading fashion stylist Cathy O’Connor, international plus-size model and award-winning style blogger, Louise O’Reilly, fashion photographer Maria McGrail, and Rosemary Kearns, the Tempted boutique owner. Top Irish curvy model, Louise O’Reilly of the very popular ‘Style me Curvy’ blog is a new judge for this year and is the perfect person to mentor the girls and help select a winner given her experience in the industry.

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summer months and is still a real gem for the day tripper and tourist wanting to step back a space. Now that the longer evenings are here and we await the heat of summer, Skerries is a thriving and friendly community and a hub of activity all year round, with tree lined and quaint streets, adorned with hanging baskets in the summer and a great atmosphere.

With the only west facing harbour on the east coast, Skerries enjoys spectacular sunsets and is awash with pubs, shops and restaurants. No matter what season, there is something quietly romantic and atmospheric about this lovely fishing village.

The perfect place for shopping and relaxing after a day’s shopping.

If you’re looking for a unique local shopping experience, Skerries is the place to go. Away from the gruelling slog of the city centre shopping, you have a chance to experience for yourself the

21.04.2015

Your No.1 Local Newspaper

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13

Advertising Feature

warmth of the friendly locals and see what treasures are in the intimate shops, stores and markets, the boutiques and delis and much much more. The local staff are truly experts in their fields, offering you friendly, expert advice and a good bit of banter thrown in for good measure. You’ll be hard pressed to find that sort of service in the city centre. In Skerries, the local retailers pride themselves on offering

nice place to do business and to enjoy its many amenities. There is something for everybody, ranging from pharmacies to TV or satellite dish retail outlets and all things in between. All in all, take some hustle and bustle out of those packed shopping centres and towns, come to Skerries

from local trawlers.

Further on is the venue of the former Red Island complex, which drew thousands to Skerries in the 1960s. Now it is a place to view the magnificent coastline overlooking the majestic Mountains of Mourne. The scenic, seaside town is fast becoming the place to

suit all your shopping needs and boasts an impressive array of shops to suit even the most frenzied shopaholic. Whether its clothing, electronics, health and beauty,

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Skerries; A town that has everything

Watch the world go by at one of Skerries’ many cafés and diners

you the best service possible service (with a smile of course) and can give you plenty of help and advice if you’re stuck for ideas.

All the shops, stores and boutiques will be up to date with the latest trends and products, so you’ll have to look no further for whatever you need.

Many of the stores also feature beautifully displayed shop fronts; where retailers display their high quality wares in lovely well kept, attractive shops which draw you in. The fact that Skerries has been one of the finest performers in the National Tidy Towns competition nationwide, you can be assured that the shop fronts will be full of colour and character.

You can wander the town all day and into the early evening and avail of a veritable bonanza of unique discounted offers and gifts all at the till. And you won’t have to worry about having hassle if you need to return an item. The retailers will gladly accommodate you in whatever way they can and you won’t have to travel miles to do a gift exchange, as the shops are right on your doorstep.

You will truly have a

crafts, homeware or anything else in between, Skerries has it all, and a visit here will be well worthwhile and a very pleasant surprise.

shopping experience to remember, as you wander around this attractive seaside town.

The local retailers pride themselves on providing you with exceptional customer service as they inform you about their excellent and varied produce. The warmth and friendliness of the locals is a really wonderful attribute of this vibrant area.

If you’re looking for that extra special gift, you won’t need to travel any further than Skerries.

The town is filled with an array of shops which sell clothes, jewellery and and other goodies that spring to mind.

Each shop is full of hidden gems, ideal for that perfect gift or must-have item.

There’s so much on offer, you will simply find it hard to choose just one item!

After a day’s shopping, there is nothing better than to enjoy a drink or meal in one of the cosy pubs by a roaring fireside and enjoy one of the many music sessions available.

Skerries has always been noted for its shops, many fine pubs and restaurants and tourists are attracted to it all year long.

There is so much to do in Skerries, the shopping and sightseeing

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14

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21.04.2015

County Club bers Is

Now O www.north countyleandline @ er.ie and als

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Pics: Derek O’Mara Philip Cullen, Sue Scott amd Adam Watts

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County Clubbers was back at our regular haunt Home Nightclub in Balbriggan last week. As usual the popular venue was packed to the doors.

The DJ did not disappoint and, as always, the dancefloor was heaving.

Ciaran Daly, Rory Kelly and Brendan Kelly

Richie Armstrong, Frank McGowan, Tony Carroll and Laura Watson

Shannon O’Donovan, Carrie Spencer and Danielle Ahern

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21.04.2015

Your No.1 Local Newspaper

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Successful Fundraiser For Swords Tidy Towns

Swords U14 boys basketball team players and parents travelled to Tralee recently to take part in The Jimmy Curran tournament run by St. Brendans Basketball club, Tralee. They played three games, finishing 3rd which then put them into the Plate playoffs. They won both games against local teams on the Sunday bringing home the Jimmy Curran U14s Plate.

Pictured here are: Back row: Kevin McFeely, team Manager, Rory Mcfeely, Adam Mulally, Cathal O'Brien, Captain, Rendij, Bertule, Jordan Curtis and Frank Tracey, Coach. Front Row: Matthew Boland, James Daly, Richard Rooney, Joey Boland, Daniel Tracey and Jake Guildea. Aaron Kinsella and Liam Reilly are missing from the photo.

Strictly Come Dancing For Chernobyl Tension is in the air as six weeks of intensive training is coming to an end for 16 lucky couples battling it out to become champions of “Strictly Come Dancing” in Kettles Hotel, Rolestown on Saturday 25th April in aid of Sunflower Chernobyl Children Appeal Tickets are €20 each and are available at the door or from the dancers. The show starts at 8 p.m.

The evening will be jointly hosted

by Andrew McCann, Ireland AM’s and Q102 “Know Your Rights” expert, and Caroline Dunne, Dublin Group Leader, Sunflowers Chernobyl

Guest judges include Senator Darragh O’Brien and the glamorous Teena Gates, former 98FM presenter, media trainer, motivational speaker and explorer, and Michelle King from Buzz Print, who has supported the event over the last three years. The evening will be a great night’s entertainment and will raise much needed funds for a great cause. The Sunflower Chernobyl Group is a not for profit organisation run purely on a voluntary basis with no staff or administration fees, with all proceeds going directly towards the cost of bringing children to Ireland from

Belarus for respite for a month, as well as much needed funds towards an orphanage in Bogushevsk in Belarus.

The children are being hosted by families in North County Dublin for the month and will be arriving on June 25th until July 25th 2015, which will be the fourth year in a row for this local group, with the voluntary support of local families.

This one month respite is being organised for children from deprived backgrounds and will give them access to clean drinking water and wholesome food as well as giving their families back home a well-earned break in advance of the harsh winter. The group will also be bringing children with disabilities who reside in orphanages in Belarus to North County Dublin as part of their stay.

North County Leader, the No. 1 local newspaper in the region, seeks to recruit

Part Time & Freelance

JOURNALISTS For more than 2 decades North County Leader Newspaper has proven itself to be t h e local newspaper in the region. With the continued growth of our region your No. 1 local newspaper has responded by increasing its circulation from 18,000 papers to an impressive 30,000 newspapers and achieving a readership in excess of 160,000 residents in our area. This success is driven by the quality and commitment of our team.

We are now seeking Journalists to assist in bringing the most up to date news to our newspaper and web readers.

THE POSITIONS: JOURNALISTS: Part Time staff member, to work from our offices or from their own home, providing news and feature copy as directed by the senior journalist. This is a salaried position which will suit a journalist who likes to work under direction and in a structured environment.

FREELANCE REPORTERS: This is a non-staff position and will suit a person who likes to do their own thing.

Picking up news leads and following them through. You will provide copy on an ad hoc basis to the senior journalist on local stories of interest. The remuneration for these Freelance opportunities is on copy purchased and is paid on invoice.

These opportunities will suit those who possess relevant qualifications, have a good ability to write and be resourceful in providing news reports on matters and events of interest to the North County area.

If you feel you have what it takes, please send a detailed CV to: Gerry Fitzmaurice Managing Editor North County Leader Newspaper, North Street, Swords, Co. Dublin email: info@northcountyleader.ie

North County Leader is an Equal Opportunities Employer

The busy Swords Tidy Towns team would like to say well done to Liam Rooney, their Built Environment and Streetscape Officer for organising a very successful fundraiser in the Cottage Cafe Swords recently.

“We would also like to thank Rosie and Alan the proprietors for providing the raffle hamper and all of their staff for making it such a fun day. The event raised over €400 during the three hour period we were there,” explained Swords Tidy Towns Chairman, Ken Duffy. “A big thank you must go out to all those who turned up for tea or coffee and purchased a ticket for our raffle; your support is much appreciated. The winner of the hamper raffle was a young Swords Tidy Towns volunteer, sixyear-old Aymen Ait el Hadj who picked out his own number, well done Aymen,” Duffy added.

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16

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21.04.2015

were presentations on key matters led by external consultants, including the Draft Tourism Strategy and the Swords Cultural Quarter.

He said, “On t he presentation on Chief Executive of the County the Cultural Quarter segment, the Council, Paul Reid has spoken out chamber was completely distracted about concerns for the safety, secu- with councillors walking in and out rity and well-being of staff and passing mobile phones and laptops. This doesn’t confronted by water reflect a level of profescharge protesters. He sionalism that I feel we spoke about staff concerns should be showing to about walking out of work visiting presenters. It also through protesters and doesn’t demonstrate to having their photos taken the public tat we are by camera phones. acting in their best interReid spoke about the ests,” he said. embarrassing lack of Regarding security respect shown by some matters, Reid said the councillors to external council will continue to consultants, who had CEO Paul Reid put in place whatever made presentations on matters of strategic importance to arrangements are necessary to the council. These included tourism protect staff. he also confirmed that strategy. where one presenter he had comments made to him, as found it ‘quite intimidating’ as he went to his car last week. While I protesters were banging on the don’t have concerns in this regard, shutters during the presentation. others may well have concerns,” he The chief executive said that there said.

Reid Hits Out At Intimidation Of Council Staff

Advertising Feature

With Spring well and truly established, it’s high time to start thinking about, not only the annual Spring cleaning, but also some new and fresh ways to cheer up your home and your garden.

Garden A neatly kept garden is the first impression a visitor gets of your house.

This first impression is lasting and if your garden

is not kept up to scratch, it’s unlikely that your home will be any better.

Now is the perfect time to start tidying up your garden. If you need a major clean-up after the harsh winter and even harsher Spring that we have just endured, you will need to engage the services of a professional landscaper. Luckily there are many such companies here in the North County, who will provide you with

a top class service to make sure your garden, the entrance to your home looks at it’s best. With smaller gardens, you may be in a position to undertake small jobs. Sowing a new lawn can be undertaken now, with local garden centres ready to provide you with all your requirements and to give excellent advice. Larger jobs, like paving and decking will give your house an added dimen-

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sion and can provide that all-important outside room, which can be enjoyed as the long summer evenings arrive.

Kitchen It’s easy to get prepared for the Spring in the kitchen. Most likely you’ll be inspired by longer days by cooking a bit lighter food and perhaps trying out some new recipes so the fresh smell filling will give your home a great first impression for visitors.

Why not also get more into freshness by growing your own herbs by the window aisle as there’s finally enough light for that. And that, the light, is indeed the biggest spring maker so the best way to cheer up your kitchen for the warmer days to come is to let the light flow in.

So, leave the dark, heavy curtains for winter and go for some thin, translucent fabric instead. When changing not only the curtains and blinds, think about all the spring colours and choose the

lightest and brightest options. Browse around the local decoration shops and magazines to get some colour world inspiration and don’t be too shy to try out something totally new, or trust the classic spring colours such as green, yellow and white.

Bathroom The same tricks can work wonders as well in the bathroom as in any other room of the house, so start off by trying to refresh with little things.

So, get your towels updated and see if it’d be about time to get some new, different coloured ones. Find some matching storage boxes as that’s the one sure way to keep your bathroom clean.

Organise the thick and heavy toiletries behind the shelves and replace the products with lighter ones. If there’s a little window in your bathroom, try changing to a new type of glass if you feel this is needed, or even just place some ornaments close to the window ledge.

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Stark Warning About Aer Lingus Sale A prominent transport economist has issued a stark warning regarding the IAG takeover of Aer Lingus. Senator Sean Barrett maintains that the IAG takeover of Aer Lingus presents a clear danger to Ireland’s fragile economic recovery.

He warned that a deal could leave the country stranded like ‘Robinson Crusoe’ and ‘endanger’ vital trade links with America.

Barrett’s warning comes as Minister for Transport, Paschal Donohoe is in the final stages of readiness to present the takeover bid to cabinet for approval.

However, the final report is likely to ignite Coalition tensions, with sizeable cohorts of Government TDs, particularly here in the North County

against the deal, They cite connectivity issues, as well as job losses in the airline, as reasons for heir opposition to any deal that hands over ownership of the national airline.

Senator Barrett said that the Government should be concerned over the consequences of our connectivity with America. He said, ‘An IAG takeover could mean Ireland will move from having the fastest-growing crossAtlantic travel market, to being as stranded as Robinson Crusoe when it comes to flights to America. He said that connectivity played a major role in attracting American foreign direct investment into Ireland in 2013.

He warned that the Government should be very aware in ‘aviation

terms’ that an IAG-Aer Lingus merger could endanger Ireland’s direct links to the US. He also maintained that ‘it was far from likely that IAG aviation policy would be driven by the national interest, to ensure that everything we do facilities the essential American role in our economic recovery.’

Other informed opinion on the sale speaks about the sale signalling the end of low-cost fares for Irish travellers. One insider suggests that the if the Irish state acquiesces to the sale of Aer Lingus to one of it’s main competitors, this will immediately weaken competition on routes across the Irish Sea. It will eliminate direct competition on the strategic Heathrow route, unless someone else steps in.”

Fundraising Event In Balbriggan Balbriggan Meals on Wheels are calling for donations for their upcoming Sale of Work on 2nd May at 12pm in the Order of Malta Hall, Hampton Street, Balbriggan. If you have any unwanted sale-able items, presents/toys gifts in good condition that you would like to donate for the sale of work fundraiser please drop them into the kitchen on Hampton Street between 10:00am and 1:00pm Monday to Saturday.

Progress Made On Swords Cultural Quarter Continued from page 1

€95 *

€139*

€219*

€259*

€480*

Local councillor Darragh Butler (FG), welcomed the progress enthusiastically: “It is great to see progress being made with regards to Swords Castle. It is estimated that around 3,000 people took the opportunity to see inside the Castle grounds and inside the refurbished chapel on St. Patrick’s Day and I really look forward to the Castle being open to Swords residents and visitors over the summer months,” he told the County

Leader. “I am really optimistic with regard to Swords Castle and Swords Main Street. Another initiative from the County Council is to try and win a Purple Flag for Swords. A Purple Flag is awarded to town centres that prove they are vibrant, safe and well managed in the evening and at night-time with a view to promoting a quality evening and night-time economy offer to local, regional, national and international visitors,” he added.

21.04.2015

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Upcoming Events At Emmaus Centre The Emmaus Centre in Swords has an exciting line-up of one day workshops and courses taking place over the next four weeks.

On Saturday 25th April, Sally Hyland will present a one day retreat entitled “In the deserts of the heart let the healing fountains start.” This nourishing day is an invitation to roll the stone away from the heart, so as to breathe in God’s blessed and challenging gift of freedom.

On 9th May, there are three very different one day workshops, the first with Father Jim Cogley is entitled Personal and Ancestral Healing.

The second workshop on the 9th May is a Half Day Programme entitled Mindfulness for Health with Fidelma Farley. This workshop explores

ways of living well in our bodies, whatever our experience. And finally on 9th May, the morning will include gentle Mindfulness and SelfCompassion exercises which will resource you to make self-care part of your daily routine.

To conclude the current round of workshops at Emmaus, Aishling Killoran and Ray Manning will facilitate a one day workshop on 10th May entitled Take Action and Transform everyday. Stress with EFT Tapping. Ray and Aisling will help get you to transform from everyday stress, along with helping you transform your everyday experiences into Clearer positive thoughts.

The centre has lots more courses and programmes taking place throughout the year and full details are available on their web site in the events section so just log onto www.emmauscentre.ie or call Emmaus on 018700050 and they can arrange for a brochure or flier on any of the course to be sent to you.

MASSIVE STOCK CLEARANCE

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CPC Transport Manager Training Course Dublin is leading the way as the major centre for candidates who will fill many of the 15,500 job vacancies that could become available in the Freight Transport Sector over the next five years.

CPC.ie is enrolling for the latest Transport Manager courses in Dublin after which successful candidates will receive an internationally recognised qualification for life from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Ireland.

A Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in Transport Management is a compulsory requirement for any individual who wishes to fill one of the vacancies that are due to come online.

The Director of CPC.ie, Tony Hynes, said: “Road freight is the most common means of transporting freight in Ireland.

Pictured is CPC.ie Director, Tony Hynes

An estimated 48,800 persons are currently employed in core Freight Transport, Distribution and Logistics Sector (FTDL) occupations. These roles are spread across a range of sectors within the economy including transportation and storage, manufacturing and

Dog Owners Warned To Keep Pets Under Control Walking your dog outdoors is a great way to get healthy and it is an enjoyable form of exercise for both owner and dog. However, as large stretchs of the North County are agricultural, the ISPCA is reminding all dog owners from around the North County to act responsibly and keep their dogs on a lead and under control at all times around livestock. “We do not want to see any lambs or ewes distressed, injured or killed by dogs this Spring.

Nor do we want to see any dogs destroyed as a result. Losses to sheep farmers can be significant and distressing. We would like to remind all dog

retail and wholesale trade. Due to expansion and replacement demand for those employed in these occupations, some 13,500 to 15,500 job vacancies could become available up to 2020.”

CPC.ie has a 99 per cent pass rate and all course participants will receive a strong grounding in Financial & HR Management, Health & Safety, Employment & Contract Law, Marketing and other key areas that are crucial for achieving success in the Transport sector. The Dublin CPC Transport Manager course commenced on Saturday 18th April at the Green Isle Hotel, while the Full-Time Transport Manager courses will start on Wednesday 13th May and it’s expected to attract participants from Dublin and surrounding counties.

Full details of the Transport Manager CPC Course dates, fees and exam times are available online from www.CPC.ie, by email from info@CPC.ie or by calling CPC.ie on 1890374837

owners to keep their dogs under control around sheep and other livestock, particularly at this time of year when lambs are being born and are extremely vulnerable,” said Dr Andrew Kelly, ISPCA Chief Executive Officer.

Under the Control of Dogs Act, dog owners can be held liable for financial damage caused to farmers and these costs can be significant. Even the most docile of dogs can join a pack in a sheep attack and dog owners need to ensure that their dogs are secured both day and night.

The ISPCA is reminding dog owners to be responsible and to ensure that their dogs are microchipped, vaccinated, neutered and controlled which are key components of responsible dog ownership.

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The Fingal Old IRA Commemorative Society held a wreath laying ceremony at the Rath Cross, Ashbourne on Friday, 10th April last, to mark the 99th anniversary of the famous Battle which took place there on the Friday of Easter Week.

The Fingal Volunteers under the Command of Thomas Ashe and supported by a small party of men drawn from the Dublin Brigade having successfully forced the surrender of the fortified RIC Barracks in the town, were attacked by RIC reinforcements drawn from across Meath.

The Volunteers regrouped and under the direction of Richard Mulcahy, successfully defeated their attackers.

Unfortunately there were two Volunteers killed and others injured in the battle. The RIC suffered eight deaths and multiple casualties.

This is seen as the most successful engagement of the Rising for the Volunteers.

The Monument at Rath Cross maintained by the society, was erected by them in 1959 and officially unveiled by the then President Sean T O'Kelly.

The Society will hold their annual commemoration at the Cross on the 27th September next. Pictured are member of The Fingal Old IRA Commemorative Society at the monument at Rath Cross in Ashbourne

17

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Cosmic Clean Recent published deaths from the North County CAREY, Austin (Swords, Co. Dublin) - April 11th, 2015, peacefully at Beaumont Hosp[ital. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Betty, sons Eddie and John, daughters-in-law Bridie and Theresa, brothers martin and Johnny, relatives and friends. Rest in peace.

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Opening Of Skerries Clubhouse

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The official opening of the new Skerries Harps GAA Club clubhouse complex will be on Sunday, 3rd May. GAA President Aoghan O’ Fearghail will perform the opening at 12.00 noon.

GOLF Club Set Plus Bag (Both Top Flite) & Trolley €150.

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MCEVOY, Ursula (Station Road, Gormanston, Meath/ Balbriggan, Co. Dublin) peacefully, at Gormanston Nursing Home. Predeceased by her sister Maureen. Sadly missed by her loving sister Rosaleen (Finnegan), brothers Mick, Frank and Peter, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family and friends. Rest in peace.

ENNIS, Teresa (nee Butler) (Portmarnock, Co. Dublin) 10th April 2015, peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Teresa will be very sadly missed by her loving children Cathriona, Anthony, Paula, William and Joey, her partner Tom, six beautiful granddaughters Jessie, Becky, Amy, Martha, Lucy and Zoe, son-in-law John, daughter-in-law Jenny, Eoin, Dani, sistersin-law Betty and Mary, extended family, close friends and neighbours. Rest in peace.

ROONEY, Seamus (Island View, Skerries, Co. Dublin) Peacefully at St. Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown. Beloved husband of the late Claire. Deeply missed by his loving sons James, Colm, Vincent and Tommy, daughters-in-law Ann, Denise amd Anne, grandchildren Sherina, Carl, Connor, Thomas, Stephen, Laura and Jamie, brothers Sean and Patsy, sister May, brother-inlaw Oliver, sister-in-law Anna, Maureen and Kathleen, nephews and nieces, relatives and friends. Rest in peace.

DUFF, Michael (Mick) (late of Ballyfermot and Crumlin) 12th April 2015, peacefully following a long illness borne with great courage and dignity, beloved husband of Alice and loving dad of Paul, Raymond, Michael and Alan; deeply regretted by his loving wife, sons, brothers, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, brothers-inlaw, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. May he rest in peace.

HAROLD Pauline (née McDonnell) (Flemington Park, Balbriggan, Dublin) Peacefully in St. Francis Hospice, Raheny, surrounded by her family. Sadly missed by her loving husband Christy, sons Christopher and Jason, daughter Emma, grandchildren Liam, Conor and Shannon, partners Sarah and Amma, sisters Linda and Lorraine, brothers Liam, Mick, Paul and David, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. May she rest in peace.

MARTIN, Noel (Swords and formerly of Crumlin) April 11, 2015 (suddenly); deeply regretted by his loving wife Linda, daughters Teresa, Noelle and Linda, sons-in-law Alan, Ger and James, grandchildren Connor, Adam, Ellie and Sienna, family, relatives and friends. Rest in peace.

Miracle Prayer Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask for a very special one(mention request). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it with your broken heart where your Father sees it.

Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Say for 3 days promise publication. Never known to fail.

T.P

21.04.2015

CURRAN Plumbing & Heating Due to continued expansion we are currently seeking a:

PLUMBER / MAINTENANCE PERSON RGI REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL CV applications marked PL1 by email only to: info@curranpropertymanagement.ie Deadline for reciept of applications is Friday 24th April Part of the Curran Property Management Group, No.1 Main St, Swords

North County Leader, the No. 1 local newspaper in the region, seeks to recruit a

TRAINEE GRAPHIC DESIGNER For the last 21 years North County Leader Newspaper has proven itself to be the leading newspaper in the region. With the continued growth of our region, your No. 1 local newspaper has responded by increasing its circulation from 18,000 papers to an impressive 30,000 newspapers and achieving a readership of some 105,000 residences in our area.

This success is driven by the quality and commitment of our team.

Could You Be Our Next Hub Administrator At Ace Express?

We are now in a position to offer an enthusiastic, creative person an opportunity to train in our production department, the chosen candidate will be trained in GRAPHIC DESIGN, WEB DESIGN AND PAGE MAKE-UP.

Ace Express Freight is one of Ireland’s leading freight companies, operating from our headquarters at Blake’s Cross, Lusk. We are now looking to recruit a Hub Administrator, who will be responsible for the following key areas:

• Liaise with delivery agents to resolve all job discrepancies.

• Record all discrepancies and actions to resolve.

• Ensure all policies and procedures are properly implemented.

• Liaise with delivering agents and Operations Department to agree costs.

• Administration of the auto-costing system to ensure that all jobs are accurately costed.

• Liaise with IT Department to resolve all issues with the auto-costing system.

• Generate agent manifests, generate internal self-bills, monitor and agree agent invoices before payment.

The position is available with immediate effect, and the successful candidate should have have a minimum of 2 years’ experience, with a high degree of motivaion.

Applications - including a copy of your CV - should be sent to recruit@ace-express.com, to reach us no later than April 30th, 2015.

Pavilions Shopping Centre / Swords Central, Swords, Co Dublin

The ideal candidate will have a good sense of humour - a vital characteristic in the pressurised atmosphere of a production department.

He/She will also posess an open mind and a good working knowledge of computers although no Graphic Design skills are necessary as full on-going training will be provided.

He/She must be committed to their own career and be willing to take full advantage of the training and opportunities offered by this company.

If you feel that this opportunity was made for you please send a detailed CV to Seán Fitzmaurice, Production Director North County Leader, Leader House, North Street, Swords. or email: sean@northcountyleader.ie An equal opportunities employer

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Applicants can telephone: 087 666 7830 or Email CV to: bostonbelleswordsreception@outlook.ie or Simply call in to the salon.

Are you wasting hours of your day driving to and from work?

Wouldn’t you prefer to work in your own community and use your leisure time more productively?

North County Leader, the No 1 newspaper in North County Dublin, is looking for Experienced Sales People who are excited by the prospect of a career in a fast moving industry, where every day is different and long commutes are a thing of the past!

MAKE THAT CHANGE FOR 2015 We are looking for:-

We are offering:-

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Send your CV to: Sue Griffiths, Advertising Sales Manager North County Leader, Leader House, North Street, Swords, Co. Dublin or email: careers@northcountyleader.ie

No. 1 because we listen!

21.04.2015

Your No.1 Local Newspaper

21 Years Serving The Community Of North County Dublin

Let Us Guide Your Small Or Start-Up Business To Success Fingal County Council Planning permission for continuation of use is sought by Willowroe Ltd. (trading as Crystal Clean) at Pavilions Shopping Centre Car Park, Malahide Road, Swords, Co. Dublin of a previously approved (Reg. Ref. F10A/0335) car servicing and valet facility (295.50 sq.m.) as follows: (i) 4 no. dual use valet spaces (72 sq.m.) and 2 no. set down spaces (22.5 sq.m.); (ii) 3 no. car servicing bays with max capacity 4 cars, 2 no. 'zip pits' for car servicing and 1 no. general service bay with customer viewing platform (129 sq.m.); (iii) parts store (17.8 sq.m.) and bunded oil store (11 sq.m.); (iv) reception area and wc (26 sq.m.); (v) High pressure hydraulic hose to external bunded manifold from oil store for refilling; and all ancillary site works. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Fingal County Council Planning permission is sought for 2 storey extensions to both front and rear of existing house, relocation and upgrade of existing septic tank to a waste water treatment unit with percolation area and associated work at Corballis, Donabate, Co. Dublin, for Nora Davis- Neville and Richard Neville.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making copy at the offices of Fingal County Council during it's public opening hours and submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of twenty euro within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of this application.

Fingal County Council I, Les Reilly intend to apply for a development at Reilly’s Daybreak, 1 Cruises Hill, Main Street, Naul, Co Dublin. The development will consist of retention of the repositioning of the main entrance to the shop and permission for part material change of use from part retail to part off licence to include all associated site works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Fingal County Council, Planning Authority, Fingal County Hall, Main Street, Swords, Fingal, Co. Dublin, during its public opening and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Fingal County Council Planning Permission is sought for the development of the existing first floor area into a Gymnasium and Games Room, including alterations to the internal layout,which includes the installation of a passenger lift and the installation of an external escape stairs on the Eastern Elevation at Man-O-War GFC Clubhouse, Oberstown, for Man-O-War GAA The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Fingal County Council, County Hall, Main St, Swords, Co. Dublin, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, ¤20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Fingal County Council Planning permission is sought to build new single storey extension to rear/side and also to build a new dormer extension & window to side with attic conversion & 2 no. velux rooflights to rear of existing end of terrace dwelling.

Permission is also sought to relocate existing side entrance gate to rear of property on shared laneway at 31 Castleview Avenue, Swords, Co. Dublin for Catherine & Kieran Rafferty.

The application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its' public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Fingal County Council Planning permission is sought for a first floor extension over the rear existing annex and a single storey extension also to the rear of 48 Torcaill, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin. Applicant S. Johnston.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Fingal County Council Rush Sailing Club seek planning permission for: 1 / Retention for construction of single storey entrance extension to front, 2 / Retention for construction of single storey protective glazing to existing patio area to side, and 3 / Construction of new single storey extension to rear to provide additional changing room facilities, and construction of new single storey extension to side, to accommodate additional seating provision, and associated site works at Rush Sailing Club, Rogerstown, Rush, Co. Dublin.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

Fingal County Council Planning permission is sought for the change of use from Workshops to Canteen and Offices ancillary to the use of the existing Workshops, internal alterations to the workshops, new external wheelchair accessible ramps, removal of the existing solid and translucent corrugated roof sheeting and replacing with slate roof and new conservation roof windows and all associated site works, to the existing workshops (a protected structure RPS No. 536) at St. Itas, Hospital, Portrane, Co. Dublin for The Health Service Executive.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

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21.04.2015

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