Clondalkin News 16th May by Newsgroup

16th May 2022

ATTACKS ON NURSES & STAFF ‘MUST END

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has called on the Government and the HSE to do more to protect nursing staff as they go about their work caring for their patients. Teachta Crowe was responding to HSE figures revealed that over 3,400 nurses had been assaulted in our hospitals since the start of 2021. The Sinn Fein TD commented “Shocking figures released by the HSE recently reveal that since the

beginning of last year, more than 3,400 nurses have been assaulted in our hospitals. If we consider all staff including nurses, then that figure goes up to 5,600 incidents of physical, verbal and sexual assault. These figures were provided to my Sinn Féin colleague and party Spokesperson on Health David Cullinane TD in response to a recent parliamentary question. Sean Crowe TD said “In talking about her

experience, one nurse described the accident and emergency department as ‘a pressure cooker’, with ‘aggression causing junior nurses to quit’, while she no longer feels safe in her workplace. The Tallaght TD continued “It is completely unacceptable that any worker but particularly those in the caring profession should have endure abuse and assault for simply carrying out their

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duties.

“Overcrowding in our hospitals is in the words of the president of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation Karen McGowan, ‘a recipe for disaster’, which has increased anxiety and the risk of aggression. The South West Dublin TD concluded “The Government and HSE must put measures in place as a matter of urgency to ensure the safety of all our nurses and hospital staff. To relieve the obvious tension and pressure cooker atmosphere particularly in A&E, we also need to urgently bring forward a plan to tackle waiting times and overcrowding. “Assaults and abuse must stop”.

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OVER 1,300 ATTEND 1ST EVER DARKNESS INTO LIGHT IN CORKAGH PARK Over 1,300 people attended the first ever Darkness Into Light walk held in Corkagh Park. The event, proudly supported by Electric Ireland, was a huge success with hundreds of people taking part to raise thousands of euro for Pieta. “For the first year ever, Corkagh Park played host to our very own Darkness Into Light event. It was organised by a committed team of volunteers who wanted to make a difference and we were thrilled so many people came out to support the fundraiser for Pieta.

Thankfully the weather was perfect for the walk which started at 4.15am.

We had music from the Dublin Gospel Choir, the RAMs in Rhythm and some amazing young local musicians who were dotted around the park. The route was decorated by tea lights and fairy lights as well as some incredible artwork made by local groups and schools. It was a really special morning that ignited hope right across our community,” said Michelle Byrne, Co-Chair of Corkagh Park, Darkness

Into Light. “Every year Darkness Into Light provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community and to bring hope to people who have been impacted by suicide.

Clondalkin really got behind this sentiment to make Corkagh Park’s

first Darkness Into Light a success for Pieta.

The event would not have been possible without the support of local businesses and South Dublin County Council, and it would not have been a success without the hundreds of people who got up in the middle of the

night to support this flagship fundraiser for Pieta. We are already looking forward to next year,” added Lorraine Nugent, Co-Chair of the organising committee. Clondalkin was one of many locations that provided an opportunity to raise awareness and hope in the

global fight against suicide and self-harm.

Since Darkness Into Light began, Pieta supporters have helped raise almost €29 million, which has enabled the charity to keep their doors and 24/7 helpline open for people in crisis, free of charge.

Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 HK49. Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and Rathcoole & Saggart News Distributed by: Local Post Co. Contact Details: Website www.newsgroup.ie

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Pictured left to right are the Corkagh Park Darkness Into Light Committee 2022 Emer Higgins TD, Niamh Fitzsimons, Jancie Moseley, Rachel Boggans, Lisa Byrne, Ellie Boggans, Sharon Green, Michelle Byrne, Lorraine Nugent, Treasa Kelly and Dee Hayden from Pieta.

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KISHOGUE STATION NEEDS €3.8 MILLION REFURBISHMENT TO OPEN Local People Before Profit representatives have expressed their disappointment with the news that it will now cost €3.8 million to get the unopened Kishogue Train station into use. The station was built 13 years ago but has remained unopened since, despite numerous calls from elected representatives to open the station. Irish Rail have now stated that the station won’t be opened until late 2023. Gino Kenny TD commented: “It’s extremely disappointing that the train station is not yet opened. Because of this neglect it will now cost a significant amount of public money to open it. I have called on the NTA and Irish Rail to open the station for years and for years we have been promised that it will. In 2018 the NTA/Irish Rail said

that the station would be opened in 2020, and now we’re looking at the end of 2023. I’m very concerned that this date will be pushed even further because of the extra funding needed. It is incredible that at a time when we need more people to use public transport in order to reduce our CO2 emissions this station is lying empty. I’m calling on the Minister for Transport to ensure that money is provided to open the station as soon as possible.” Cllr Madeleine Johansson added: “Irish Rail has claimed that it wasn’t viable to open the station before new homes are built in the area. But in my opinion, the fact that there are thousands of people living in walking and cycling distance from the station means that the station could have been opened and

would have been used. A park and ride facility could also have offered even

more people in the wider Lucan area the possibility of using the train to get to

the city centre. The buses in Lucan are currently full to capacity at peak times

and the train could offer an alternative public transport option.”

FUNDING TO UPGRADE COMMUNITY CENTRE FACILITIES Community groups and organisations are invited to apply for a new round of funding for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres, a local TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins said: “Fine Gael wants to build stronger and safer communities by making our towns, villages and parishes across South Dublin better places to live, work, run a business and raise a family. “My colleague, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced that registration is now open for a new €15 million capital fund for the upgrade and refurbishment of Community Centres. “The Community Centre Investment Fund will provide grants of between €10,000 up to a maximum of €300,000. “Funding is available for capital works such as improvements to communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities, energy retrofitting, new windows / doors / heating systems, works to address safety concerns and works to improve disability access. “All interested applicants in South Dublin must register online at gov.ie/CommunityCentresFund. Registration

for the fund must be completed prior to submitting a formal application. “The formal application process will open on Tuesday 7th June and closes on Thursday 14th July 2022. “Minister Humphreys has also announced that her Department will host online information sessions on Wednesday 18th May 2:30 – 4pm and Wednesday 1st June 2:30 – 4pm. “I would strongly encourage local groups and organisations in South Dublin to attend these information sessions and learn about the application process and criteria before submitting their formal application. Applicants can also register to attend an information session at gov.ie/ CommunityCentresFund. “Completing these two important steps will help to ensure your organisation is well placed to submit a strong application to this Fund.” Minister Humphreys said: “Our local community centres & parish halls are the heart of our towns, villages & parishes. Many of them need improvement works and that is why I have put this new fund in place. “I am encouraging all community groups to look at this fund and think about how they can use it to improve their own local parish hall or community centre.”

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TALLAGHT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL GIVES PATIENTS A SPECIAL ANTHOLOGY TO MARK POETRY DAY IRELAND

Hundreds of copies of a special anthology called Menu of Poems was

distributed to celebrate Poetry Day Ireland at Tallaght University Hospital

(TUH). The publication was given to patients to enjoy, with their breakfast meal

tray on our national day to honour poets and their writing. TUH Arts Officer

Alison Baker Kerrigan says “Since its conception in 2008, Menu of Poems has been a positive development in the lives of both patients and those who work in Tallaght University Hospital. It’s great to see it returning after the break caused by COVID. Poetry can be a great help and solace for anyone going through difficult times.” The final selection includes poems by Catherine Ann Cullen (children’s poem ‘Eliza Analyser’), Martina Evans’ poem ‘Gazebo’, Imelda May’s poem ‘Stargazer’, and Rita Ann Higgins’ poem ‘Lucky Mrs Higgins’. Rita Ann Higgins, Poet and Editor of the 2022 Menu of Poems said, “It’s not unusual to reach for poems at a time of crises or distress, sometimes poems are all we have to get us over the tough times. Selecting poems for this project was a great pleasure. It made me take down the books I had

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not read for a while. It was like meeting old friends. In the end the selection made me feel warm and grateful for the powerful voices of Cullen, Evans and May, may the creative force stay with them.” Imelda May, Musical Artist and Poet said, “I am delighted that one of my poems “Stargazer” is selected for Menu of Poems to be in hospitals on Poetry Day. What a beautiful thing to do. It’s such a lovely thought and I am very honoured that my poem was picked by Rita Ann Higgins who is a lovely friend of mine. I am a fan of hers and inspired by her greatly. I hope people get something beautiful from reading poetry from their hospital beds, that it gives them nourishment, joy and healing. Hopefully the words will stay with them way beyond their hospital stay.”

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BARNARDOS LAUNCHES BIG TODDLE 2022

Barnardos children’s charity recently launched their 19th annual Big Toddle. This year Barnardos celebrates the Big Toddle’s Little Heroes - Ireland’s youngest fundraisers who help vulnerable children their own age by completing a fun half-mile sponsored walk in their creche, childcare group, pre-school and with their families. Over the last 19 years these Little Heroes have toddled more than 300,000 miles and raised €4.2 million in support of Barnardos Early Years Services.

Big Toddle Ambassador Karen Koster said: “I’m delighted to be part of Barnardos’ Big Toddle and proud of the hard work of all the little fundraisers across the country. Every child taking part should see

themselves as a Little Hero. What could be more special than children helping children to have happy childhood memories? I’m encouraging crèches, preschools, community groups and families to get involved to help raise money to support Barnardos’ Early Years services across the country. To join in the fun, register today at www. barnardos.ie/bigtoddle. Enjoy and happy toddling everyone! “

Barnardos Director of Fundraising, Mary Gamble said: “Barnardos has worked with children and families in Ireland for 60 years to transform the lives of vulnerable children, because childhood lasts a lifetime. We know that as a result of the cost of living increases the

families we support are under more pressure than ever before. This is why this year’s Big Toddle is so important – because with the help of Ireland’s littlest

fundraisers we can reach more children who need us. I urge you to register your family or creche online at www.barnardos. ie/bigtoddle.’ Whether

you’re a local crèche, a parent or a childminder you can organise your own Big Toddle anytime in May or June by registering at www. barnardos.ie/bigtoddle -

your support ensures that some of the youngest and most vulnerable children Barnardos works with are given the best possible start in life.

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FREE BOOK BAGS TO ALL CHILDREN STARTING SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER The ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative is a collaboration between libraries and the Department of Children,

Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as part of the First 5 Strategy. As part of the initiative, a ‘My Little Library Book Bag’

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is available free for every child starting school in 2022 to help them to prepare for this big step. Children and their parents or guardians can collect the bags at any library throughout South Dublin County.

Each My Little Library Book Bag contains: Three books on starting school, making friends and being comfortable to be yourself, a story card on going to the library, a postcard the child can write or draw on and send to their new teacher, or bring to give to the teacher on their first day at school and their very own library card and special ‘My Little Library’ cardholder. Book bags are available in both Irish and English. Inviting all children starting school this year to come and collect their Book Bag, Caroline Higgins said: “South Dublin Libraries are delighted to be involved in the First 5 My Little Library initiative and we can’t

wait to welcome all the 4and 5-year-old children in to collect their book bags and begin their library membership journey.

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“Reading is so beneficial for learning, imagination and creativity, and stories can really help children to understand and deal with the steps they take as they grow, like starting school. “We hope that once they visit the library to pick up their book bag, our new library members and their families will come back regularly to keep their bag filled up with borrowed books and to take part in story times, classes and all the other events we have to offer at the library.” South Dublin Libraries are ready to greet the families and welcome new members of all ages. This initiative also presents an opportunity for parents to bring older or younger children along to join the library and borrow their own books.

Njenga Receiving His Bag in Lucan Library

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S.D.C.C HOST MAYOR’S RECEPTION FOR SURVIVORS OF INSTITUTIONAL ABUSE

Pic Credit: Ben Ryan The Mayor of South Dublin County, Councillor Peter Kavanagh, welcomed survivors of institutional abuse to County Hall, Tallaght on Tuesday, 13 April for a reception in their honour. The event sought to create a space for community healing by acknowledging the past and listening to the experience of survivors of institutional abuse. The Mayor’s Reception for the survivors was first proposed by Councillor Francis Timmons. The event saw speeches, poetry, a play and music from survivors and was organised by Terri Harrison, a human rights campaigner and a survivor of a mother and baby home. Speaking at the reception, Mayor Peter Kavanagh, said, “Acknowledging the past allows us to move towards a better future, to live with our past but not to be defined by it. We came together tonight to listen to survivors and create a space for community healing.”

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INVESTMENT IN COLLEGE EDUCATION TO REDUCE COST OF STUDENT FEES TD for Dublin Mid-West, Deputy Emer Higgins has welcomed ‘Funding the Future’ - a landmark policy on the future of higher education which will reduce the costs of further and higher education for students and families. Deputy Higgins said “I know that for many people in the community, the current annual registration fee of €3,000 is too costly for students and families to afford. “The cost-ofliving crisis which has been exacerbated by the war in the Ukraine has been a burden on families and I’m delighted that Government is moving to start reducing the cost of the annual registration fee and make college more accessible and inclusive. “The SUSI Maintenance Grant is also

changing and was increased by €200 in Budget 2022 and the income threshold to qualify for student grants has increased by €1,000,” added Deputy Higgins.

“This increase will offer direct financial assistance that will benefit around 62,000 students across the country, including those in Dublin Mid West and South Dublin and I am pleased that this extra funding will ensure that more students qualify, and more families will be supported,” added Deputy Higgins. “Continuing to invest in further education is vital and will help us meet the expectations of employers and better equip our students with the skills required to meet their full potential” said Deputy

Higgins.

Speaking at the policy launch, Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris TD said: “Cost cannot and should not be a barrier to accessing education. It is my firm intention to take the pressure off families and listen to the calls of our younger generations. “We settle the question on higher education funding. We will increase our investment. We will also support our students,” said Minister Harris.

made available for the first time in 2021.

“The direct route into University is not for everyone and its so important that students are

aware of all the options that are out there from Level 8 degrees to apprenticeships and PLC courses, there’s never been more options. “And with this additional funding set to reduce the

cost of the registration fee, I’m delighted to see further and higher education becoming more and more accessible to local students and families,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

Deputy Higgins continued, “Last year I was delighted to accompany Minister Harris on a visit to St Joseph’s College Lucan in my local constituency to discuss the new CAO website and the additional pathways to further education that were

Deputy Higgins, Minister Harris and Principle of St Joseph’s Lucan, Ms Fitzgerald

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FURTHER PILOT FINDINGS CONFIRM ‘SUPER-SIZE’ WIDESPREAD NITROUS OXIDE MISUSE Councillor Derren Ó Brádaigh has raised even further concern at the latest result findings from data collated from a twelve-month pilot mapping project, currently being conducted by South Dublin County Council, into the misuse of nitrous oxide as an inhalant across the county. Ó Brádaigh was making the comments following correspondence he received from the Minister for Drugs, Frank Feighan and after yet another update report from the Council that he received, in the form of a detailed response to an official question that he recently poised. Cllr Ó Brádaigh said; “Following a motion that I had tabled last year, the Council agreed to carry out a pilot project that would record all locations at which discarded nitrous oxide cannisters were removed or reported between August 2021 and August 2022. The purpose of this exercise is to identify any trends, highlight any specific problem areas, and

to share this information with local task force expert groups, working to better understand and treat users of drug and substance misuse. “The problem in my view has escalated beyond the smaller ‘silver bullets’ with commercial or ‘supersized’ cannisters now being purchased and discarded in public parks, hedgerows and shopping centre car parks across the community. The larger cannisters equate in volume to that of 50 of the smaller silver cartridges. In areas with high volumes of drug litter, it would also be helpful in my view, to identify the user groups and how local services can engage to provide education, harm reduction and on-going support. “The European Drugs Agency (The EMCDDA) will conduct a technical report on the substance nitrous oxide later this year, to which Ireland has submitted a case study. Irish data on user groups and health harms are included within this review, however,

it is acknowledged that some groups may not be represented, which is why local service engagement in areas recording drugrelated litter is important to help understand this

emerging trend in an Irish context. “The general sale of nitrous oxide is prohibited under existing legislation as outlined in the response that I received from the Minister. Therefore, it is

increasingly frustrating that finds of discarded cannisters are so prevalent around our communities, with misuse more often than not, amongst younger and more vulnerable teenagers.

Although there has been an awareness campaign of sorts in this regard, it seems clear to me that something is not working, and I would support the outright ban on the sale of this product.”

NEW DRIVING TEST CENTRE NEEDED IN SOUTH DUBLIN TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that it is unacceptable that there has been no change in the long delays in accessing a driving test in the Tallaght test centre, saying that the Government have only allowed the number to grow despite having had two years to take action. Teachta Crowe has called for a new test centre to be established in South Dublin to take the burden off of the Tallaght centre and allow people to get a chance at a driving test without unreasonable delay. The number of people waiting on a test in Tallaght is now 11,814 out of a state-wide total of 109,364, meaning that almost 11% of all people waiting on a test are based in the Tallaght catchment area. Teachta Crowe said:

“I have been highlighting the ongoing difficulties on getting a driving test in the Tallaght area with Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan since he took office almost two years ago. In that time, the number of people waiting for a test has continued to grow and we have seen nothing but a token response from Minister Ryan and his Government. “There are now 11,814 people waiting on a test at the Tallaght test centre. Out of a state-wide total of 109,364, this means that almost 11% of all people waiting on a test are waiting in the Tallaght area. “We have seen nothing but a tokenistic response from the Government where Tallaght was temporarily given three additional testers last year and the results

are clear. The numbers continue to rise and waiting times for a test are getting longer. “The south of Dublin is poorly served for testing centres. Of the eight testing centres in the Dublin region, six are on the northside. I believe it has gotten to well past the stage where a new testing centre is required to alleviate the burden on Tallaght and work through the large number of people waiting on a test. “We cannot leave people in limbo when it comes to driving tests any longer. It makes life all the harder when it comes to getting anywhere especially in areas of poor transport links and by these delays, we are needlessly adding to the burden on workers and families.”

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JACKIE FOX AWARDED THE FREEDOM OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY

The Honorary Freedom of South Dublin County was conferred on Ms Jackie Fox at a ceremony in County Hall, Tallaght on the 6th of May. Elected members of South Dublin County Council agreed in December 2021 to honour Ms Fox in recognition of her campaigning for legislation to make online bullying a crime and its passage into law as ‘Coco’s Law’ and in honour of her daughter, Nicole.

The Honorary Freedom of the County is the highest civic honour that can be bestowed upon an individual by South Dublin County Council. The honour is reserved for those who have made exceptional or unique contributions to the common good or to persons who have made outstanding contributions to South Dublin County. The Mayor of South Dublin County, Councillor Peter Kavanagh, said at the event that, “Jackie suffered the worst loss imaginable. No parent, in their worst nightmares, can imagine the heartache and emptiness that comes from losing a child. Jackie’s daughter Nicole was taken from her doting mother through the vile and terrible actions of her peers. When Nicole lost her life, Jackie was devastated. Her baby, her Coco, taken

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away. It would have been the most natural thing in the world for Jackie to retreat into herself, to give up. Parents devastated by such a loss can become shadows of their former selves, and those who love them understand why, even as we offer all the support we can. Laws don’t get written overnight, and Jackie had a long road to travel between 2018 and 2020. A long road of living through the heartbreak over and over to tell her story. She never wavered. She never faltered. In the midst of pain, sadness and unbearable anguish, not once did Jackie Fox say “enough”. She knew that her work would save lives, and she never let up. When President Michael D. Higgins signed Coco’s Law into effect on the 28th December 2020, it didn’t mark the end of Jackie’s campaign. To this day, Jackie shares her story with students and parents to ensure that everyone understands how important this law is, and how vital it is that we protect our young people. Tonight we remember the beautiful and talented Nicole Fox Fenlon, the wonderful Coco, for the amazing young woman she was. And we honour Jackie Fox, mother, crusader, champion and lifesaver.”

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BUSINESSES SHOULD APPLY FOR NEW ROUND OF FUNDING TO EXPAND ONLINE OFFERING Retail businesses should apply for a new round of funding to expand their online offering and presence to customers at home and abroad, a TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins, TD for Dublin Mid West was speaking after Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English recently launched a new round of the Covid-19 Online Retail Scheme worth €9.3m, to help Irish businesses to upgrade their websites and improve their competitiveness in online retail. Deputy Higgins said: “Many local companies have successfully made the digital transition in recent years and developed their online capability to sell their goods and services

online. “Consumer habits have also changed in recent years and it was great for them to know that when they went online, they had local options instead of just the large international retailers, particularly when the pandemic occurred. “Government was keen to help businesses adapt to and embrace this change, and the Online Retail Scheme was launched to help them develop and improve their offering beyond the physical shop,” said Deputy Higgins. “There have been over 500 successful approvals under the Online Retail Scheme, which includes many businesses here in South Dublin. Past applicants have included many retailers selling jewellery,

THE MISFITS PANEL WINS IN LOCAL CLUB COMPETITION

At Palmerstown Camera Club they hold a weekly meeting online/in person, every Wed from 8 pm to 10 pm. People interested in joining the club or even attending one or two meetings FREE of charge to see how their photography could benefit from being a member can do so by contacting secpcc@mail.com. The club started back a few weeks ago with in-person sessions in the Parish Hall in Palmerstown and are now able to offer a hybrid model within the camera club. This is so they can have local/national and international speakers visit the club. The international speakers will be on zoom, and they can be viewed at home or in the parish hall in Palmerstown with other camera club members. Recently in the club they had a social evening/presentation for the previous year’s competition winners. Congratulations to everybody who picked up an award on the evening. A few weeks ago, the club held the judging night for last month’s panel competition which is a set of six images. They stand together as a panel with a theme and as separate images. Noleen Kavanagh won in the advanced section of the panel competition with the panel “The Misfits”. Congratulations to Noleen on the win and on a very creative panel.

fashion, sports, homeware, furniture, healthcare, hardware, electrical goods and equipment. “And businesses are rightly preparing for the future and growing their presence so that they can attract and cater for different types of shoppers,” Deputy Higgins said. The Scheme is administered by Enterprise Ireland and there is €9.3m available in this round of funding, which opens for applications and closes on 1 June 2022. In order to be eligible for this funding, applicant companies must have 10 or more full-time employees in a physical store and an existing online presence. This is to support the clicks and bricks for Irish retailers. Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English added, “I want Irish based retailers to have every chance of competing for online sales that are currently going outside the country. There is no reason why Irish businesses cannot successfully compete for home sales as well international sales. The Government is also determined to support more business owners to enhance their online capabilities and presence to exploit opportunities in existing and new markets. “The transition to online shopping was accelerated over the last two years and consumers retail habits have changed significantly. Many now make purchases anytime, anywhere, anyplace at the tip of their fingers or with the click of a mouse. It makes sound business sense to have an omnichannel approach to selling in order to cater for these new demands and to be competitive in the market. “Almost all previous recipients of funding in this Scheme noted an increase in online sales, many in international markets and the vast majority have hired additional employees to manage their increase in online sales.”

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FRESH WATER DETECTIVE TRAINING COURSE On Friday 6th May, 2022, a ground-breaking environmental training course for young people was held on the River Camac in Clondalkin. Sponsored by Friends of the Camac and generously supported by the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO), the ‘Freshwater Detective’ course was delivered by renowned biologist and author Professor Ken Whelan. https://www.kenwhelan.info/biography. Eleven young people, mainly TY students, from three schools, participated (Moyle Park College, Clondalkin; King’s Hospital School, Palmerstown; and Kishoge Community

College, Lucan). As well as classwork, the group participated in fieldwork which involved water sampling, and recording the macroinvertebrate life in the river.

Studying the minute creatures in the aquatic environment gives a window onto the quality of the water and the health of the river. Friends of the Camac are delighted to pioneer this training with young people and hope to encourage the young environmentalists and citizen scientists of the future. For more information on the Friends of The Camac see www.fotc.ie or on facebook: search Friends of the Camac.

BIFE ART & DESIGN GRADUATE EXHIBITION 2022

Opening Wednesday 25th May – Friday 27th May

The eagerly awaited BIFE Art and Design Graduate exhibition returns in person on Tuesday 24th of May. Bray Institute of Further Education is delighted to present its annual Art & Design Graduate Exhibition for 2022. This exhibition is an opportunity for

creative students achieving certificates and diplomas to showcase their works and processes.

Work on display comes from a variety of courses including Art Portfolio Preparation, Art Craft and Design, Fine Art Practice, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Furniture Design, Architectural Design and

Technology, and 3D Game Design. The exhibition is open to the public from 10.00 - 16.00 Wednesday 25th May. 10.00-21.00 Thursday 26th May and 10.00-13.00 Friday 27th May. BIFE offers influential courses to Art and Design students and aims to develop the necessary knowledge, commitment, and creative skill for students to engage in the many facets of the Art and Design World. Head of Art and Design, Karen Ryan commented ‘BIFE is a leader in developing the next generation of artists and designers and launching them on their careers. Art and design continue to be a strong unifying element within any community and with society opening post covid I would strongly encourage everyone to come to view the work and interact with the students.’ Previous Art and Design graduates from BIFE have continued onto higher education and are prevalent in all art and design fields. For further details see www.Bife.ie.

Pictured with Prof Ken Whelan (back row, centre) are members of Friends of the Camac Group with the students from Moyle Park College, Kishoge Community College and King’s Hospital School with teacher Niamh Foran.” Pic Credit: Tommy Keogh

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BENEFICIARIES OF THE BEGIN TOGETHER FUND ANNOUNCED Citywise Education, Walkinstown Greenhills Resource Centre and The Alzheimer Society Of Ireland are among 68 community projects to receive financial support from Bank of Ireland’s Begin Together programme in 2022.

In total, €500,000 is being allocated to groups across the island of Ireland in year three of the fund, delivered in partnership with the Community Foundation for Ireland. This will bring the total value of grants issued via the Community Fund to €1.5M since 2020.The Fund is one strand of the Bank of Ireland Begin Together programme, a three-year, €4 Million initiative to support community groups, local enterprise and the arts across the island of Ireland. The Community Fund aims to support initiatives that are improving the financial, mental, or physical wellbeing with initiatives receiving up to €20,000 each for projects spanning financial literacy and wellbeing, mental health, disability, inclusion

and diversity and social isolation.

Laura Lynch, Chief Marketing Officer, Bank of Ireland, said: “We’re immensely proud to support a wide range of community groups, charities, and social enterprises working across Ireland. What they do unites, supports and protects local communities and the most vulnerable in society. “Communities across Ireland still face many challenges. At this time, we are acutely aware of the pressure on resources of community groups, and notably those supporting migrant groups, like Together-Razem, who, along with their existing range of counselling and educational supports, are providing urgent assistance to Ukrainian refugees. It’s our hope that support from the Begin Together Fund will help them continue to provide the practical financial counselling and education that is vital to the wellbeing of the communities that they support.” Together-

Razem – provides financial counselling, education and supports in native languages for Polish, Romanian and Ukrainian immigrants – have been recipients of the Begin Together Community Fund since its inception. The 2022 Begin Together grant will benefit a new financial education project taking place over 14 weeks.

Agnieszka Wozniak of Together-Razem said: “At Together-Razem, our primary objective is to improve the quality of life of the Polish and other Eastern European migrants in Ireland. Our approach is culturally sensitive and we provide a wide range of services within four key areas: Education, mental health, integration and advice. We have been working tirelessly for over 15 years helping those who struggle with such issues as poverty, exclusion, exploitation, loneliness or mental health. None of this would be possible without support from organisations such as The Community Foundation for Ireland and initiatives like Begin

Together. It is absolutely invaluable especially now that we are heavily involved in helping the Ukrainian people”. Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of The Community Foundation for Ireland, added “The Bank of Ireland Community Fund is transforming lives,

often when people are experiencing greatest need. We believe in equality for all in thriving communities. It is an ambitious goal but one, which through initiatives like the Community Fund, is achievable. “The impact we have seen since the fund was first established has been

extraordinary, particularly when you consider that it was providing support with the backdrop of the pandemic. The Community Foundation for Ireland values its partnership with Bank of Ireland and looks forward to working together into the future for the betterment of all our communities.”

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CONSUMERS RECYCLED 15 BATTERIES PER PERSON LAST YEAR

Consumers recycled the equivalent of 15 AA batteries per person in 2021, equalling the national

average, according to new figures taken from the Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council and

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council areas. Data from WEEE Ireland shows Ireland achieved

a 46% battery recycling rate in 2021, reaching its EU directive obligations. Nationally, there was a 16% increase in the amount of batteries recycled by Irish households, in line with increased consumption and greater usage of batteries in everyday products.

The spike in recycling is equivalent to 15 AA batteries saved from landfill per person – an increase of two per person on 2020. Consumers across the Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council areas were in line with the national trend, averaging at an equivalent of 15 AA batteries per person which were prevented from entering landfill. “This small increase of two extra AA batteries recycled per person across Ireland made a huge difference and we are urging everyone in Dublin to recycle at least two more in 2022 to reach our target – and to stop and think before throwing them in the bin,” said WEEE Ireland CEO, Leo Donovan. Younger consumers, in particular, are being urged to stop binning used batteries - as a new survey reveals almost half of 18-34-year-olds are tossing them in the trash. WEEE Ireland’s study found that despite warnings around the environmental and safety hazards of incorrect disposal of end-of-life

batteries, behavioural change is urgently needed amongst the younger generation.

“They are often lauded as the most environmentally conscious, yet the survey shows a worrying 43% of adults under the age of 34, actually throw their used batteries in general waste bins instead of recycling them,” said Mr Donovan. “Binning batteries means that a range of really valuable resources will never be recycled. We need a sea change in behaviour amongst this cohort in order to properly address the problem.” The survey of 1,000 people, conducted online by Empathy Research last month, reveals that more than a quarter (28%) of people are unaware that batteries contain valuable resources such as cobalt, zinc, nickel and lithium, which can be used again. Over 55s are the most eco-conscious, with just 9% binning batteries – the lowest of all age categories – while 81% know they contain valuable materials. Only 2% of over 55s hoard them, but this rises to 26% for 18-34 year olds. Data across all age groups shows a total of 16% of the population binning and 6% hoarding batteries, while the vast majority who do recycle them, use retailers (47%), recycling centres (17%), WEEE Ireland

collection events (16%) and local schools (11%). Disposing of used batteries properly is as simple as consumers bagging them up on their next shopping or recycling trip. “Any retailer or supermarket that sells batteries will take them back for recycling. That’s in addition to the hundreds of recycling centres across the country. “For the millions of batteries not recycled properly every year, we lose precious elements and important resources that can only be replaced by mining. The environmental and social costs of extracting and processing the materials required for battery manufacturing, can be huge. “The world will require much less mining for materials if we can recycle more spent ones.” However, Mr Donovan said that as battery sales soar to cater for the growing demand for electric vehicle and e-mobility devices, these targets will become harder to reach if we don’t get into the habit of recycling more. Every battery recycled by WEEE Ireland goes towards a donation fund to support the vital work provided by LauraLynn, Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice. This year’s €40,000 donation brings its overall total to €520,000 since the partnership first began 11 years ago.

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LOCAL OPTICIANS CELEBRATES LONG SERVING MEMBER OF STAFF A Partner at Specsavers Liffey Valley, Clondalkin and Maynooth has been recognised for 30 years of loyal service. Lisa Walsh, who is also well-known for her charitable work, has more than three decades’ experience working with Specsavers. Starting her career in Aberdeen in 1992 at 21 years of age, she quickly moved up the ranks, becoming a store manager in 1994 and store director in 1996. Making a move to Ireland in 2000, Lisa took the Irish market by storm opening her own store in Tallaght in 2001. Today, Lisa is the store partner for Specsavers stores in Liffey Valley, Clondalkin, Maynooth and runs the audiology business for the Dun Laoghaire store. Lisa says: ‘Having worked in the Specsavers since 1992, opening my first store in 2001, I have thoroughly enjoyed helping customers in the community with their essential eye and ear care needs. It has been an honour to work with so many amazing colleagues as we strive to provide the very best to our customers.’ Lisa’s passion for providing the best in eye care doesn’t just lie within her local communities. Since 2017 Lisa has championed Specsavers partnership with Irish charity the Hope Foundation to ensure accessible eyecare to those less fortunate in Kolkata, India. Lisa commented: ‘In Ireland, we have access to excellent eye care but many people in Kolkata are not as lucky, making it vital that we do all we can to improve their eye health services. The eye tests in India will enable the team to provide glasses, where necessary, giving children and adults better vision. These people would otherwise have been deprived of this basic need. The gift of sight could significantly change many of these people’s lives.’ Through previous missions to Hope Hospital in Kolkata, Lisa witnessed firsthand how many people were suffering from lack of access to basic eye care. Thousands of people suffering from easily treatable eye conditions, with many simply needing

glasses to vastly improve their daily quality of life. As part of the Hope partnership, Lisa has worked with Specsavers to fund the education of eight female students from rural towns in India who are undertaking a degree in optometry. Speaking about Specsavers funding of education, Hope Hospital CEO, Samiran Mallik, explains: ‘There is a huge crisis of qualified optometrists in India, particularly in rural areas and unfortunately due to the poor financial conditions of many people in these areas, education is a luxury not afforded to many. People cannot go to school and train to become optometrists even though there is a huge demand for them. Thanks to Specsavers we can now train students to qualify in this field and bring their skills back to their communities to help others. But we are also creating an employment opportunity for these young girls.’ Lisa adds: ‘On my missions to Kolkata, it was clear that through Hope Hospital we could only help so many and only those who had access to our eye clinic. We wanted to do more and help more so we looked to education. The Hope Hospital worked with us to identify eight brilliant candidates who were eager to learn about optometry. I had the privilege to meet the students on my last trip and am so proud of how far they’ve come already in the course.’ Optometry students Riya Mondal,19, Soumi Ghosh, 19, and Soumi Bera, 28, are three of the optometry students who all come from poor financial conditions. With parents working as labourers and fishermen, a college education was never an option for them. However, with the support of Specsavers financial support, these young girls are now on the start of journey towards a career in health service. Riya commented that on completing her course she would like to open a clinic in her village and help those in her community. ‘Hope tirelessly work to combat the dire living conditions in the poverty-stricken city of Kolkata and bring much needed eyecare

PLAN TO END THE RENTS CRISIS TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has called on the Government to back a Sinn Féin motion to end the crisis in the rental sector, including reducing rents and providing real security of tenure. Teachta Crowe said: “The rental system remains in crisis. The latest report from the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) indicates that rent increases for new tenancies grew by 9% statewide in the last three months of 2021. “The average monthly rent for a new tenancy in Dublin is now almost €2,000. Renting in Dublin has increased by 100% since 2011. “This is entirely unsustainable and making it impossible for workers to live and raise a family in Dublin. “The ridiculous and continued rise in rents is accompanied by the shrinking in the number of affordable homes to rent as accidental landlords leave the market.

This subsequently leads to a dramatic rise in the number of vacant possession notices to quit, which are now responsible for half of all evictions. “This combination is leading to an increase in homelessness. The latest figures published by the Department of Housing last Friday show that we are now back to the levels of homelessness experienced before the Covid-19 ban on evictions introduced in 2020. “Sinn Féin would ban rent increases for three years, for both new and existing tenancies. “We would also introduce a refundable tax credit to put a month’s rent back in every private renter’s pocket. We would also dramatically scale up the delivery of affordable cost rental homes. “In order to ensure greater security of tenure for renters, we would resource the RTB to properly enforce the government’s rent regulations and we would introduce real tenancies of indefinite duration.”

to those in need. We at Specsavers are committed to continuing in our mission to raise vital funds and fund the Hope Hospital Eye Clinic and support these students.’ continued Lisa. ‘I have been extremely fortunate in my career and have had the opportunity to

help many people. It has been a privilege to have these opportunities afforded to me so I am thankful to Specsavers for working with me as we bring the best in eyecare to our communities at home and over in Kolkata,’ Lisa concluded. See www.specsavers.ie for more details.

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MOTORING LIFE WITH TOYOTA YARIS HYBRID - POWERFUL KINETIC ENERGY By Breda Corrigan Thanks to a winning combination of energising Hybrid power and stylish urban design, the new Toyota Yaris scooped the prestigious title of Car of the Year 2021, awarded by Europe’s most senior automotive journalists. The exterior design of the new Yaris possesses a powerful kinetic energy, and the rounded curves and glossy skin of the Japanese kuromame bean are re-invented throughout the design of the car. The unbroken line running from the bonnet, and extending to the roof, creates a natural peak towards the rear of the roof, giving the new Yaris the stance of a sprinter, poised and ready to take off. The boomerang design of the rear bumper pushes the rear wheels outward for a powerful, planted stance. Fourth-Generation Hybrid. Powering the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid is a new 1.5-litre petrol engine and enhanced 4th generation hybrid system for an unrivalled combination of engaging performance and outstanding fuel economy. Built on more than 20 years of experience, the lightweight lithium-ion battery can store more power, whilst the self-charging hybrid system can recover more energy. The key advantages of hybrid ownership include fuel savings, lower emissions, automatic transmission (e-CVT) as standard, road tax savings, higher residual values,

lower maintenance costs, no range anxiety (when compared to fully electric vehicles), along with the fact that Toyota Hybrids are self-charging, so there is no need to plugin. Safest Yaris Ever. The new Toyota Yaris is the safest Yaris ever and it has achieved a full five-star Euro NCAP rating. Packed full of technology, standard equipment includes ‘Toyota Safety Sense 2’ with an advanced Pre-Collision System with Emergency Steering Assist and nighttime pedestrian detection. In addition, Intelligent Cruise Control (which includes Adaptive Cruise Control combined with Road Sign Assist) automatically keeps the car at a pre-selected speed and warns the driver if the speed limit changes. Also included is Cyclist Detection (daytime), Lane Trace Assist, Automatic High Beam, and Intersection Collision Mitigation. The cabin in the new Yaris is well constructed and functional, while its tall seating position and large doors make it easy to get into and out of. All models come with a steering wheel that is height-adjustable and telescopic, and a driver’s seat that is height adjustable too for maximum driving comfort. A variety of storage cubbies around the cabin make it easy to store small items, and the car’s standard 286-litre cargo area can be enlarged by dropping the rear

seat backrests for added practicality. The infotainment screen in the new Yaris keeps occupants up to speed with what is going on with the hybrid engine by revealing how the power is being used, as well as providing incremental fuel economy figures and an economy score at the end of each trip. Five Trim Grades. There are five trim grades in the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid; Aura, Luna, Luna Sport, Platinum and top-spec Premier grade. In addition to Toyota Safety Sense 2, standard equipment across all trim grades includes a touchscreen multimedia display, Smartphone integration including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, air-conditioning, daytime running lights, power heated and coloured door mirrors, multiple airbags, dusk sensor, front power windows, a sharkfin ariel, and eCall - emergency call system. Test Car Details. The electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission in my Yaris Hybrid Luna Sport test car is a perfect companion for the 3-cylinder petrol engine, and it enables the car to complete a 0-100km/h sprint in just 9.7-seconds on its way to a top speed of 175km/h (where permitted). With 116bhp and 120Nm of torque available, the engine delivers seamlessly smooth linear acceleration resulting in responsive and

nimble manoeuvrability in urban settings and relaxed cruising ability on motorways. Fuel consumption as low as 4.1-litres per 100kms is achievable on a combined driving cycle, with a low Co2 emission figure of 92g/km leading to annual road tax of just €170. The Yaris Hybrid handles well and overall ride quality is good, with torsion beam rear suspension soaking up broken road surfaces with ease. The Yaris feels most at home traversing city streets with a drivetrain that is more than willing to operate under electric power for much of the time when in ‘Eco’ mode. Standard Luna Sport equipment includes 16-inch black machined-face alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen multimedia display, six speakers, rear privacy glass, smart entry and start system, Binocular TFT displays, digital speedometer, LED illuminated entry, powered windows front & rear, along with the option of Bi-Tone body colours with a Polar White roof. Pricing. With the cost of fuel rising at a faster rate than we have ever seen before, it is easy to see the attraction of a petrol/electric hybrid car, and the new Yaris Hybrid has the advantage of never having to be plugged-in to a power supply. The awardwinning Toyota Yaris Hybrid is priced from just €23,990 and is available at Toyota dealerships nationwide now.

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RATHCOOLE’S VYTA RECEIVES €13M INVESTMENT FROM MML AND ACQUIRES IT DISPOSAL COMPANY FGD

Vyta Group, Ireland’s leading secure IT recycling company, recently announced the acquisition of Essex-based IT disposal company FGD, following an €13M investment from MML Growth Capital Partners Ireland (MML). The investment from MML will give it a minority shareholding in the Group. Meanwhile, the existing shareholders and new shareholders – consisting of four members of the Vyta senior management team and the FGD founders – have made significant investments, helping the company to pursue a growth-oriented acquisition strategy across the UK and continental Europe. FGD will rebrand under the Vyta Group name. Its 37 employees, including cofounders Leigh Medhurst and Daniel Elson, will join the Group, increasing the Vyta team to over 120 across its expanded network of offices in Belfast, Dublin and Essex. It is now one of the largest IT asset disposal companies in Ireland and the UK. Leigh Medhurst is taking on the role of Chief Development Officer, and Daniel Elson is now Vyta’s Chief Technology Officer. Vyta estimates that the addressable market for its services in Ireland and the UK is in excess of €350M, with further market opportunities in Europe. The acquisition is the first in Vyta’s market consolidation strategy as it aims to increase its market share organically while also acquiring like-minded IT disposal companies. It will be vital to expanding Vyta’s geographical reach as a premium IT asset disposition (ITAD) provider, and the company now expects revenues to reach €19M by the end of its financial year ending 31st May 2022, up from €8M in the previous financial year. Vyta expects to reach revenues of more than €35M by May 2026. The FGD acquisition complements Vyta’s existing services, with a strong focus on customer service, sustainability and security. FGD customers will benefit from Vyta’s scale, extended range of services and security leadership in a market where growth is driven by increasingly stringent data regulations, such as GDPR, as well as sustainability concerns and obligations across all sectors. Vyta is one of the most accredited ITAD providers in Ireland and the UK. It holds R2 certification and the highest possible accreditation from the global IT disposal standards body, ADISA; a distinction with honours. Helping to consolidate Vyta’s position in the market are its two subsidiary brands: DiskShred, providing secure on-site hard drive and media shredding across the UK and Europe; and RefreshedByUs.com, a premium reseller of refurbished IT equipment. MML is a leading investor in small and medium enterprises on the island of Ireland, with a strong focus on businesses, such as Vyta, which operate in the circular economy. Its investment will see Philip McMichael, co-founder and CEO of Vyta Group, along with the Vyta management

team, remain the largest shareholders. Meanwhile, MML investment leads Neil McGowan and Christopher Walsh will join the Vyta Group board. They will work alongside the executive team to support the group’s M&A strategy.

we are committed to investing in the circular economy. By promoting reuse over recycling, Vyta Group enables thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide savings per year, helping some of the world’s largest

enterprises to become more sustainable and contribute to a greener future for all of us. We are very excited to join Vyta Group on this journey to promote corporate sustainability and pursue rapid expansion.”

The MML funding comes from the MML Growth Capital Partners Ireland Fund II, a €145 million fund supported by British Business Investments, AIB and a number of international institutional investors. Philip McMichael, founder and CEO Vyta Group, said: “This is an exciting period of growth for Vyta Group, and we are delighted to welcome our new colleagues to the team. At Vyta, we adhere to the most stringent industry standards while maintaining our commitment to having the best customer service in our industry. Therefore, it is important that we acquire like-minded ITAD companies, like FGD, who reflect our principles and exacting standards, ensuring that Vyta Group remains a company that our people are proud to be a part of. “This acquisition makes us a stronger company in a highly competitive market. Our expanded team will be immensely valuable to us as we pursue our ambitious growth plans. We greatly admire their work to date and look forward to achieving even greater things together. “MML not only share our growth ambitions but also our sustainability ethos and dedication to growing the circular economy. The funding, along with their knowledge and experience, will be vital to us as we embark on our strategy to consolidate the UK and Europe’s ITAD market. “I am extremely proud of our business and our team, four of whom have made investments in the company to become shareholders. It reflects their dedication and belief in what we do. That commitment puts us in a very strong position, and I’m excited to continue to work together as we aim to become the best-in-class ITAD services provider in Europe.” Leigh Medhurst, Chief Development Officer, Vyta Group, said: “We are very excited to join the Vyta team. Over our 11 years in business, we have achieved immense growth year on year, and we look forward to continuing on this growth path as part of the Vyta team. Our priority, as always, is our customers, and we are looking forward to working closely with them and providing the same level of care and services that they are used to.” Neil McGowan, partner and co-head of investments, MML Growth Capital Partners Ireland, said: “The European ITAD sector is a fast-growing but fragmented market that presents a significant opportunity for Vyta Group. We are impressed by the company’s management team and their track record in growing the business to date, which, together with MML’s investment and support, positions Vyta optimally as a consolidator in the market. “At MML,

Pictured: Giles Ward, Chief Operations Officer, Daniel Elson (previously FGD), Chief Technology Office, Leigh Medhurst (previously FGD), Chief Development Officer, Faye Thomas, Chief Commercial Officer and Philip McMichael.