Rathcoole Saggart News 22.08.22 by Newsgroup

moreEamonforappealingoutespeciallyofattitudeshould“Whilenumber.everyonehaveascepticaltotheseformscommunication,iftheycomeoftheblue,IamtoMinisterCommunicationsRyantodotocombatthe

seemingly open field that these scammers have. The government must do more to protect the Irish people from these scams.”

Tallaght Stone Centre headstones crafted for all cemeteries Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Our Comprehensive Services Include: ♦ headstones ♦ inscriptions ♦ renovations ♦ chippings ♦ re-lettering ♦ counter tops ♦ house names ♦ granite estate signs Tel: (01) 462 6200 Fax: (01) 462 6209 email: info@tallaghtstonecentre.ie web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie DO YOU HAVE A QUERY WHICH RELATES TO: LITIGATION ● Personal Injury Claims / ● P.I.A.B. ● Debt Collection ● Medical Negligence FAMILY LAW ● Divorce ● Judicial Seperation ● Seperation Agreements / ● Maintenance Applications Ballyowen Castle, Ballyowen shopping Centre, luCan, Co. DuBlin. Call 01 - 6105 185 or 01 6760 555 22nd August 2022 TEXT MESSAGES AND CALL SCAMS ARE SOMETHING WE SHOULD ALL BE VIGILANT AGAINST TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has called on the Minister for Communications Eamon Ryan to do more to protect Irish people from scam calls and texts from a Banking & Payments Federation Ireland report showed that people falling victim to these types of scams lose an average of €1,700. Teachta Crowe encouraged everyone to be vigilant and adopt a sceptical attitude to these forms of communication, but said that Government needed to take greater action and be more proactive to protect vulnerable citizens. Teachta Crowe said: “The cost of text and call scams can be very high for people, especially now with the shocking cost of living increases we are all havethelastPolicingmeetingthat“ThistheseantheFederationBankingAccordingexperiencing.tothe&PaymentsIreland,averagelosstoindividualthroughscamsis€1,700.issomethingIbroughtupataoftheJointCommitteeyearbecauseofshockingriseweseeninthistype of crime since Covid began. It was up 60% last year alone and I would bet that the numbers will be a similar increase this year from the amount of anecdotal evidence I have heard and seen. “We are all familiar at this stage with the scam calls and bogus texts that are going around. I have heard from some constituents that they are getting two or three calls a day and have experienced a number of them myself. “Scam calls or texts may claim to be from the Revenue, the Department of Social Protection, An Post, banks, or a range of other service providers. They may have alarming or seemingly legitimate messages about social welfare fraud or customs fees or “Theydeliveries.aredesigned to entice you into clicking a link and providing personal and payment information. “Never share personal details such as your PPS number or bank details over the phone unless you are completely sure of who you are talking to. Do not be afraid to get a reference number if someone claims to be ringing from the Department of Social Protection or a bank so that you can end the call and ring their main phone

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CITY EDGE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

Contact Details: Website www.newsgroup.ie Email: info@newsgroup.ie

The City Edge Project is a joint initiative between South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and Dublin City Council (DCC) to create a new liveable, sustainable and climate resilient urban quarter at the western edge of Dublin City.

The City Edge area is already a cornerstone of the Dublin economy with some 1,500 businesses employing 25,000 people, alongside well-established residential communities of 5,000 people. However, City Edge is identified in national and regional policy as a part of Dublin that has the potential to be much more intensely used. Located at the western edge of Dublin City, within the M50 and only 15 minutes from the City Centre, this large brownfield land bank is the logical ‘next step’ in the sustainable growth of TheDublin.City Edge Strategic Framework, sets a Vision for the future of these lands, whereby their intensification can play a central role in the sustainable growth of both Dublin and Ireland. This aligns with Government policy for ‘Compact Growth’, whereby development is focussed on land close to cities where new and existing communities will be able to avail of public transport, walking and cycling and amenities such as parks, schools and community facilities. Regeneration of the City Edge area will make a significant contribution to the delivery of much needed new homes and jobs, which in turn will generate sizable economic, climate and social benefits for the RealisingCountry.the scale of ambition presented in the framework will require strong governance as well as sustained political and economic support. There are sizable infrastructure deficits that require the coordination of state agencies and upfront investment to push forward early infrastructure delivery to unlock the long-term potential of this strategically important Theproject.next step is to prepare Variations (amendments) to the South Dublin County and Dublin City Development Plans to provide the statutory basis for more localised plan(s) and policies, with further public consultation as part of this process.

The project area covers 700 hectares within the Naas Road, Ballymount and Park West areas and has the potential for 40,000 new homes and 75,000 jobs that would contribute €13bn GVA a year to the economy, making it one of the largest regeneration opportunities in Europe. The City Edge Strategic Framework is a non-statutory plan, which sets out a long-term, highlevel strategy for the regeneration of the area over a 50-year timescale. More information can be found on the City Edge website including the full City Edge Strategic Framework document, the Strategic Framework Summary Booklet and supporting studies.

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ESB recently launched its eBike pilot project across several Dublin commuter suburbs in conjunction with two of Ireland’s leading micro-mobility providers, Bleeper and Moby, research partner Trinity College Dublin, innovation partner Dogpatch Labs and cofunding partner Interreg North-West Europe. The pilot programme, ESB eBikes, will run from Wednesday 17th August for a ten-month period and includes 112 bikes with 14 charging stations in some of Dublin’s busiest commuter locations including the South Dublin County Council Bleeperarea.

Speaking at the launch of the ESB eBikes pilot project, Marguerite Sayers, Executive Director, Strategy, Innovation and Transformation at ESB, said: “A number of years ago, ESB established the X-Potential Incubator programme to develop innovative, sustainable and commercially viable business ideas. We are very proud to unveil one such idea - our eBike pilot - which is a new concept in Ireland and was conceived and developed by X-Potential. Investing in low-carbon, sustainable mobility infrastructure for Ireland is a reflection of our commitment to leading the transition to a net zero energy future. With this project, we are delighted to be part of the broader Interreg North-West Europe eHUBS programme and that Dublin will now join other member cities, such as Amsterdam and TheManchester.”eHUBS programme provides funding for onstreet e-bikes, e-cargo bikes, e-scooters and e-cars with the aim of developing a blueprint for replication in other cities and regions to reduce air pollution, congestion and CO2 emissions while developing a market for commercial shared e-mobility providers aligned with local policy. With the launch of its eBike project, ESB is now a proud partner of the eHUBS programme and will co-operate with other consortium partners for the duration of the pilot to help further develop lowemission shared transport solutions throughout Ireland and Europe. As strategic research partner to the project, Trinity College Dublin will analyse commuter behaviour in relation to e-mobility transference from private cars to a shared low-carbon travel solution and will identify key mobility patterns, calculate carbon savings, and evaluate commercial potential based on data collected from ESB eBikes. Local locations include Maldron Hotel, Naas Road Newlands Cross Clondalkin, Old Bawn Road Tallaght, St. Peter’s Road Walkinstown, Park West Business Campus Cherry Orchard, Firhouse Road, Tallaght. For more information, visit www.esb. ie/ebikes Image Credit ESB/Johnny Savage

and Moby will maintain and operate the eBikes with the charging infrastructure provided by ESB. Bleeper’s ESB eBikes scheme is available and is accessible via the Bleeper app. The Moby scheme, which will be operational over the coming weeks, will be accessible via the ESB eBikes app. The daily cost of hire has been subsidised by ESB, starting from just €5 per day in addition to a €30 monthly subscription, to ensure the initiative is accessible to all.

ESB ANNOUNCES EBIKE PILOT PROJECT FOR DUBLIN COMMUTER HUBS

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06 www.newsgroup.ie OLD BAWN DOORS FLOORS & BANNISTER DESIGN UNIT 3 KYLEMORE PARK NORTH OFF THE KYLEMORE ROAD(TURN AT ROCA TILES) TEL: 085 781 2869 OPEN 7 DAYS (SUN 1PM - 5PM) FIND US ON FACEBOOK WOODFORFLOORSLIFE Straight Flight Full ONLYModernSetFinish€799 Before Before After After AT PER€30WEEK WoodenPERAT€30WEEKFloorOnStairsandLanding ONLY€799 Banisters Designs Transform the complete look of your hall, stairs and landing! Shanford and Traditional Styles From Only €899 / €1199 Free Estimates Solid €399OnlyDoorsShakerSupplied&FittedWithFulllocksets Available with clear glass, 1 Panel or Laminated glass Comes In Light Grey, Dark Grey, Oak or White €399Only Supplied&Fitted ExtraGrey€100 SPECIALOFFER5WhiteregencyDoorsONlY€899/999WithFullLockSetSupplied&Fitted AT PER€30WEEK The Fianna Fail Team is Barry Andrews M.E.P, John Lahart TD, Cllrs Yvonne Collins, Teresa Costello, Emma Murphy, Charlie O’Connor & Deirdre O’Donovan Cllr. Charlie O’Connor PC Living in Tallaght ...Working for Tallaght email charlie.oconnorff@gmail.commobile0872982079 AVAILABLEALWAYSTO CONSTITUENTS.MY Living in Tallaght ... WorkingTallaghtfor

FIRST EVER WONDERFUL WALKINSTOWN FESTIVAL

Walkinstown Park is going to play host to the first ever Wonderful Walkinstown Festival on September 4th. The festival promises to offer a feast of entertainment for all the family. On stage, there will be Irish Dancing, as well as music for all tastes including the everpopular Walkeleles, singer-songwriter Natalie Moran, contemporary choir Musically Sound, the Crumlin Orchestra and more. For the kids, there will be storytelling, superheroes, clowns as well as a host of other games and activities. It will also be a great opportunity for locals to chat with local community groups such as the Men’s Shed, Scouts, DSPCA, Walkinstown Greenhills Resource Centre to name just a few. For more information see https://walkinstownfestival.com/ PRIMARY SCHOOL CLASSES MUST GO

SUPERSIZE

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe says that figures showing that there were 142 primary school classes across the South Dublin County Council area that had 30 pupils or more during the academic year 20212022 underline the need for increased investment in our education system in the upcoming budget. SDCC represented the second highest figure in the state, only coming behind Cork County which represents a much greater area. Teachta Crowe said “Too many of our children’s quality of education is being affected by high class sizes. There are countless classes that are far too big, in buildings too small, and not fit for purpose. We need to end supersize overcrowded classrooms in our education system. “In the South Dublin County Council area, there were 142 classes with 30 pupils or more. These students are at a serious disadvantage even before they even begin their education. “Sinn Féin wants to abolish all classes of over 30 students, never allowing them to return, and commits to working towards attaining the EU average of 20 children per “Someclass. classes in this area have 35 children. This is almost twice the EU average. We know that evidence shows that pupils do better and are better served with smaller class size “When class numbers are smaller, modern teaching methods work more effectively, and teachers can spend the quality time needed with children. This is particularly important for children with additional needs, for those who need additional support and students from disadvantaged “Sinncommunities.Féinin Government would reduce the pupil/ teacher ratio in primary schools to the EU average of 20 children per class by September 2024, we would build additional classroom space required to implement reduced ratio and facilitate smaller class “Asizes.two point reduction to the pupil-teacher ratio in each of the next 2 years would cost €62m in total, €31m per year. It is both achievable, affordable and the right approach to take. “These are the changes and actions that the Government should be taking now. It is time to invest significantly in our education system. Children can’t wait. Our children deserve the best in terms of their education and currently they are not getting the quality of education that they need and deserve.”

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The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Emma Murphy spoke of the history and the benefits of Sister City Agreements and the cultural links between the two great counties. She said “Quality relationships and collaborations play such a key role in the growth and development of our businesses and wider economic development. Every opportunity to grow and expand our businesses, our educational institutions, our knowledge share and talent has to be welcomed. An agreement of cooperation was signed in Florida between South Dublin and Hillsborough County in 2014 to set up our commitment to this cooperation on a formal footing. The countersigning of a ‘Continuing Cooperation Agreement’ between South Dublin and Tampa Bay Chamber marks the further strengthening of these relationships between our counties. We particularly welcome Tampa Bay Chamber and the Tampa businesses who are part of this delegation and trust that you can forge new trade opportunities when you meet with and indeed visit some of our local businesses that have been arranged by South Dublin Chamber.” These sentiments were echoed by the US Ambassador and Mayor Castor. The afternoon included speeches from the two Mayors, the US Ambassador, the South Dublin and Tampa Bay ThereChambers.were also presentations by South Dublin County Council highlighting innovative projects underway and promoting South Dublin County as a place to visit and do business. As part of the ceremonial aspect of the event, The SDCC Mayor presented gifts to the Tampa Mayor and US Ambassador showcasing local businesses from within the South Dublin County Council administrative Mayorarea. of Tampa, Jane Castor said: It was an honour to join Ambassador Claire Cronin and South Dublin County Mayor Emma Murphy in continuing our Sister City agreement. Our exchange of cultural and economic initiatives will prove beneficial for all involved. Impressive and exciting development in South Dublin County’s future!”

08 www.newsgroup.ie OLD BAWN BLINDS & INTERIORS UNIT 3 KYLEMORE PARK NORTH OFF THE KYLEMORE ROAD(TURN AT ROCA TILES) TEL: 085 781 2869 OFFICE: 01 6237432 OPEN 7 DAYS (SUN 1PM - 5PM CRUSHBEDVELVETSET FOR €25 PER WEEK l Split Base l Head Board l Orthopaedic Mattress l All Colours FOR €25 PER WEEK l Split Base l Head Board l Orthopaedic Mattress l All ColoursBESTSAVE€200PRICES IN DUBLIN - GUARANTEED FACT - CALL 085 781 2869 TODAY NUMBER 1 FOR BEDS IN IRELAND €299NowDouble Bedset Crush Velvet Bed Set KING SIZE (5FT) ONLY €399 4Ft 6’ DoubleperForBed€25weekNow €229 l Irish made l Double Quited Divan l Complete With l Platform base HEADBOARD€99 3Ft Single Bed Now €129 l Irish made l Crushed Velvet l headboard €69 l 3Ft Delux deep BaseFor€25perweek Call us today for informationmore FIND US ON FACEBOOK SOUTH DUBLIN MAYOR WELCOMES THE US AMBASSADOR AND MAYOR OF TAMPA FLORIDA The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Emma Murphy and the South Dublin Chamber welcomed the US Ambassador to Ireland; Claire Cronin, the Mayor of Tampa, Florida; Jane Castor and members of the Tampa Bay Chamber to County Hall in South Dublin recently. The visit was an opportunity to strengthen ties between the “Sister Cities” of Tampa and South Dublin County by formally signing a ‘Continuing Cooperation Agreement’ which renews further promotion of relations between the counties, opportunities to develop business relationships and cultural Theunderstanding.SisterCity Agreement was signed in Tampa in 2014 by the then Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Sarah Holland and the then Mayor of Tampa, Bob Buckhorn, who is now a member of the Tampa Bay Chamber and was part of the delegation.

09www.newsgroup.ieSTBRIGIDS WELL CLEAN UP Clondalkin Mens Shed Community Group recently carried out a cleanup at St. Brigids Well on Boot Road, Clondalkin. The group regularly attend to carry out the maintenance & up keep of the well and its surrounds. Pictured Volunteer George Smith having a well deserved break after the recent Clean up by the Clondalkin Mens Shed. Pics: Tommy Keogh OLD BAWN BLINDS & INTERIORS NEW SHOWROOM OPEN St. Dominic’s Shopping Centre (Off the Old Bawn Road) Tallaght, Dublin 24 Tel: 085 863 4397 Blinds Dept: 01 6237432 Open 7 Days (Mon-Fri till 8pm, Sat till 6pm & Sun 1pm -5pm UNIT 3 KYLEMORE PARK NORTH OFF THE KYLEMORE ROAD(TURN AT ROCA TILES) TEL: 085 781 2869 OFFICE: 01 6238389 OPEN 7 DAYS (SUN 1PM - 5PM CARPET SALE Stairs & Landing From Supplied€299&Fitted(8X13) LINOSuppliedFromKitchenSALE€199&Fitted(8X13) €25weekper €20weekper WOODEN FLOORS Sitting room & Hall From €799 to €899 (30 yards) Supplied & Fitted WOODEN FLOORS 3 Bedrooms From €899 to €1199 (40 yards) Supplied & Fitted Stairs Landing& in Wood or €799Lino Supplied & fitted €30 Per Week Sitting Room in €299Carpet(20yards) Supplied & fitted €20 Per Week 3 €499Bedroomsto€699(40yards) Supplied & fitted €25 Per Week €30WEEKPER

It would seem to me that this government have chosen to take a decision regarding data centres based on a very narrow economic view, at the peril of a much more environmentally savvy one.”

“South Dublin County Council will now essentially be instructed by the Minister to retain the ‘open for consideration’ inclusion clause, allowing for data centres to be permissible within the relevant zoning. It has become very clear recently that the government have decided that there will be no slow down, moratorium or ban on the continued expansion of new or existing data centres. This comes only a week after the Taoiseach made a statement saying as much. Following the ministerial direction to overrule the council’s decision, there is now a 4-week process whereby councillors can make submissions from the notification date of Friday 28th July, however the consultation period for the public is only half this time at just 2 weeks. The online portal for members of the public to make submissions will run during the lessthan-ideal peak summer holiday period. This really flies in the face of Ireland’s responsibilities to address our targets as set out in the Climate Action Plan 2030 and despite the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) introducing restrictions for access to the national grid, due to fears of potential nationwide blackouts.

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this year, councillors clearly expressed their preference to see a moratorium at the very least for the next 6 years, until more is known about the serious potential impacts of data centres on energy consumption, carbon emissions and their immense strain on water and electricity structures. With the County Development Plan now made and coming into effect this week, the intervention by the Minister at the eleventh hour, is in my view, undemocratic and undermines the role of councillors, in the carefully considered making of the plan. We have very clear commitments to drastically reduce our carbon emissions by 2030 and data centres simply make our targets increasingly more elusive.

MinisterPlanthethatcounciljustÓNorthCllrimpacts.forLucan-Palmerstown-Clondalkin,DerrenBrádaighsaid“WehavelearnedthatthehasbeenadvisedadraftdirectiononCountyDevelopmentwillissuefromtheinthecoming

weeks, based on the Office of the Planning Southin50%‘ban’recommendationRegulator’snottodatacentres.WithofalldatacentresIrelandnowlocatedinDublinCountyand using massive amounts of power and water, the risk to the security of our energy supply is very real. A report from Eirgrid has told us that data centres could be using up to a third of the national grid by “Earlier2030.

As summer has finally reached us at Palmerstown Camera Club they are running photography outings to places like Castletown House, Glendalough, Malahide and Skerries to mention just a few. The club are also running a photo competition for budding photographers, so they are asking you to snap an image with your camera or phone and send it to pccphotocomp@gmail.com. To be in with a chance to win a 1-year membership to the club’s novice category worth €110. They welcome photographers of all abilities but would love to encourage more novice/ beginner photographers to join and help reach their potential. Competition closes 31st August and the winner will be notified by the 5th of Sept 2022. The below image is from a recent club outing to Malahide where Gerald Phelan captured the moon rise. 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.

PHOTOPHOTOGRAPHERSFORCOMPETITIONBUDDING

REGRESSIVE MOVE TO OVERTURN COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN ‘BAN’ OF DATA CENTRES

A local councillor has strongly criticised the intervention of Minister Peter Burke to reverse the decision by South Dublin County Councillors taken in March of this year, banning the construction of any more data centres in its Councillorsjurisdiction.voted to support the ban during the recent making of the South Dublin County Development Plan 2022-2028, amid growing concerns regarding the sheer number that already exist in the greater Dublin area and their negative

“As we know data centres require land, and lots of it, taking up vast amounts of space. Aside from the initial construction, a data centre employs an average of 30 people. It is estimated that there are as few as 1800 people employed in total in Ireland, with residents and local communities never really benefiting directly from the sector. It is also worth remembering that there are EU plans to limit the natural gas usage by member states coming down the line too.

11www.newsgroup.ieDUETOEXPANSION COMPOSITE DOORS IRL LTD ARE PRESENTLY RECRUITING. We require experienced window and door installers for retro fit and new build installations. The ideal candidates should have no less than 5 years’ experience as outlined below. Installation of Composite doors, PVC Windows, Aluminium windows and sliding doors. The right candidates will receive high Gross pay and excellent working conditions. All conditions will be discussed on a one-to-one basis with candidates at interview stage. We supply Composite Doors, Aluminium Lift and slide Doors, Bi Fold Doors and PVC and Aluminium windows throughout the Dublin Area. For further information please phone 01 2164951 or email info@compositedoors.ie Composite Doors Ire Ltd 3 St Gall Gardens South, Dundrum, Dublin 14. DO YOU HAVE A JOB YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE? Reach homes & Businesses in Lucan, Clondalkin, Tallaght, Rathcoole, Saggart and Newcastle. Contact us today on info@newsgroup.ie or call 01 451 9000

& TRAINING FEATURE

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Calling all Gaisce Gold Awardees

Gaisce – The President’s Award, the nation’s highest recognition of young people’s initiative, achievements and voluntary contribution to society, is seeking to connect with nearly 40 years of Gold Award recipients through a Gold Voices Community network - reuniting those who completed the journey through the years and calling on them to step up and inspire the next generation of Gold Awardees. In July, over 140 young people from across the island of Ireland were honoured with the Gaisce Gold Award by President Michael D. Higgins for their outstanding commitment to personal development and contribution to society.

These young people are now part of the growing Gold Voices Community, where they will become leaders and mentors to the next generation of community change makers, adventurers, musicians, sports people and creatives. Gaisce – The President’s Award was established in 1985, the UN International Youth Year, and serves as a direct challenge to young people from the President of Ireland. Throughout its history, Gaisce has empowered young people to create lifelong connections, develop self-confidence and become leaders within their local communities.

Colm Keegan, poet and Gold Awardee said, “It was only when given the chance to reflect on the impact the Gaisce had on my life recently, when giving a speech for the award ceremony, that I realised the impact participating in Gaisce had on me. “The principles of personal development in service to others instilled in me then are still at the core of everything I do. I don’t think I could have become the person I have become without it. Gaisce is an inspiring framework within which you are encouraged by others to do more than you think you can, and in doing this you improve not just yourself, but the lives of those around you.” Gaisce – The President’s Award is calling on everyone who has achieved a Gold Award to contact Gaisce today so their unique stories can be recorded as part of a special collection and living archive of Gold Awardees from nearly 40 years of the President’s Award. Those with a Gaisce Award are also invited to become President’s Award Leaders, who are crucial in providing mentorship to young people across a wide variety of organisations including community groups, education, sport, disability, and justice. CEO of Gaisce, Yvonne McKenna said, “Gold Awardees, by their nature, want to pay it forward and inspire future generations of young people, which is why we are delighted to announce the launch of the Gold Voices Community. “Those who have achieved a Gaisce Gold Award have gone on to do phenomenal things in their personal and professional lives, as well as in their own local communities. We want to showcase the work they have carried out, to tell this important national story, to mark 40 years of Gaisce. “Since Gaisce was founded there has been over a quarter of a million Awards achieved. Our aim with the Gold Voices Community is to reunite Awardees and through their incredible stories, remind ourselves of the Previouspossible.”recipients of the Gold Award from the President of Ireland include Rónán Ó Dálaigh, founder of Thriftify, Naomi Carroll, Irish Olympian and Ireland’s Women’s field hockey International, and Dr. Emma Farrell, who sat on the Government’s taskforce on Youth Mental Health and is now a Gaisce Council Formember.further information on the Gaisce Gold Voices Community, please gold-community.https://www.gaisce.ie/visit

EDUCATION

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AN COSÁN WELCOMES PEOPLE FROM BACKGROUNDSALL

This October sees the return of Geopace Training with their popular phlebotomy training courses.

FAST-TRACK YOUR CAREER INTO THE HEALTHCARE PROFESSION …WORK AS A PHLEBOTOMIST!

Parents with young children love the fact we have onsite Early Years’ education and care so they can focus on their studies while knowing their littles ones are being well looked after and receiving high quality education at the same time. As well as a range of back to education and wellbeing courses (see our ad on page 12), we offer QQI accredited Level 5 courses in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), Business Administration with Digital Skills, Community Care, Community Development, and Word Processing. We also run a QQI Level 6 programme in ECCE. For more information please visit www.ancosan.ie

An Cosán community education centre in Jobstown welcomes people from all walks of life. Early school leavers, people who struggled to fit in at school, parents returning to education and people from other countries are especially welcome.

The friendly team provide a safe space for people of all backgrounds to learn, to develop their skills and increase their confidence so that they can look forward to a brighter future – not only for themselves, but for their families too. We are unique in that we care for the whole person, offering a range of additional supports to ensure everyone can continue on the path of education. We offer financial support, IT support, laptop loans, parenting support, and one-to-one tutoring, mentoring and counselling.

An increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals has led to a shortage of allied healthcare workers, especially phlebotomists - the skilled healthcare professionals who take your Demandblood. is high within hospitals as well as many clinics and surgeries and offers a golden opportunity for that “longed for” career change! If you have good people skills, good manual dexterity and like the idea of working in a busy hospital or clinic, a phlebotomist job may be just the right job for Manyyou! people enter this profession when they are looking for a career change or a fresh start. Phlebotomists often work part time (mornings) but some do work full time as well as weekends and holidays. Blood samples are usually collected in the mornings and then analysed in the Path Labs in the “Weafternoon.train people from all walks of life and all ages” explains Tasmin, office manager. “We’ve had shop assistants, receptionists, beauticians and dental nurses, as well as telesales staff, unemployed, school leavers and the retired” says OnceTasmin.onthe healthcare career ladder ambition often drives people to progress to working in the labs and to other specialised departments. Internal promotion is much easier once you are “on the ladder” and have some experience. Many hundreds of Geopace trainees are now working as phlebotomists and a few have even chosen to work abroad where there is often a shortage and growing demand for this specialised skill. If you like the idea of a career in healthcare then this may be just the job for you! Training takes place over two full days and culminates in the award of a “Wein5accreditedcertificate,recognisednationallyatLevel(advancedlevel)Ireland.practiceon artificial arms”, says Tasmin. “And all our students have a lot of fun learning. We get a great deal of satisfaction when we later learn that they are working in their local hospital or medical facility”. The next course in Dublin is scheduled for Friday 14th October. If you would like to know more about phlebotomy as a career or to book a place visit Geopace Training’s website at www.geopace.net

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www.accountingtechniciansireland.iesee 612 jobs created since the programme’s foundation in 2017,” she said. “Graduates gain a professional QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Accounting and have acquired the skills needed to fill a range of accounting and finance roles across all sectors. “Each year, more employers sign up and we now partner with over 331 across 22 sectors.” School leavers, Leaving Certificate students, career changers and mature learners can all apply through Accounting Technicians Ireland.

15www.newsgroup.ieACCOUNTING

TECHNICIANS IRELAND APPRENTICESHIP GRADUATE

Dublin students have been urged to consider an accountancy apprenticeship programme which will create 140 jobs nationally this year. Applications are now open for the Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI) Apprenticeship - based in colleges in Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Monaghan, Waterford and Wicklow. And a graduate of the programme has advised Leaving Certificate students currently sitting their exams not to feel pressurised into entering full-time third level education. The ATI Apprenticeship is a funded, two-year, workbased learning programme in which apprentices work, learn and earn at least €21,060 a-year. Large firms and smaller practices, as well as industry and the public sector, have all embraced the programme. Dublin-based ATI graduate Katie Mikulan, 23, who initially pursued a degree before deciding to begin the Apprenticeship in 2020, said it was the best move she ever made. “I began an accounting and finance degree after my Leaving Certificate, but university was not what I expected; I did not enjoy it as much as I thought and left after a year and a half,” said Katie, from Skerries, North Dublin. “College can be expensive, but a funded apprenticeship programme is a great alternative. Starting the ATI apprenticeship was the best decision I have ever made. I wish I had begun sooner.” After quitting university and working as a customer assistant at Tesco and a beauty adviser in Boots, Katie opted to pursue a career in accounting after taking on an account manager role with Clarins and gaining a certificate in book-keeping She completed her two-year apprenticeship with Grant Thornton, where she worked in the international corporate tax team whilst studying part-time through the ATI Academy, located at the Institute’s headquarters in Chartered Accountants House on Dublin’s Pearse Street “I would recommend the apprenticeship if you are unsure about full-time third level education. Leaving Certificate students should not necessarily feel pressurised to go straight to university when there are so many other options Katieavailable.”now works as a tax operations officer with Citibank and hopes to become a fully qualified tax advisor with the Irish Tax Institute. “The Apprenticeship is also a great pathway to becoming a fully qualified accountant, as it offers exemptions for many of the top professional accounting bodies. The work-based element gives a great advantage in terms of career options, as experience is critical.”

Grant Thornton Managing Partner, Michael McAteer, said the programme is a win-win for the employer and the apprentice, allowing firms broaden their client offering and provide excellent career prospects for Gabrielastudents.Airini, Head of Education at ATI, said the Apprenticeship enables employers to recruit and upskill staff in a costeffective manner as training fees are covered by the state agency, SOLAS. “The Accounting Technician Apprenticeship continues to contribute towards job creation and business growth in Ireland with over For more details

YOUNG

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Since its inception, Gaisce has been committed to ensuring the accessibility of the Award, and to ensuring every young person can see themselves in the Award. Gaisce celebrates the innate talents and abilities of all young people in Ireland, regardless of their circumstances. The Gaisce Awards, founded in 1985, recognise young people’s commitment to personal development and community action. At the heart of Gaisce is a wide network of trained adult mentors, the President’s Award Leaders (or PALs) many of them Gaisce Awardees themselves. PALs are instrumental in providing mentorship to young people across a wide variety of organisations including community, education, sport, disability and justice.

Young people from across Ireland have been commended for their outstanding commitment to personal development and contribution to society at the Gaisce Gold Award ceremony recently. President Michael D Higgins delivered the Gaisce Gold Award to each recipient at a ceremony which took place at Áras an Uachtaráin – the first Gaisce Gold Award Ceremony to take place in three years. Combined, recipients invested more than 25,000 hours in personal development and voluntary activities to achieve these awards. At the height of Covid in 2020-2021, over 40,000 young people aged 14-25 answered the President’s call to pursue a Gaisce Award, supported by over 1,200 President’s Award Leaders in 750 organisations Nationwide. The Gaisce Gold Award is the nation’s highest recognition of a young person’s initiative, achievement, and voluntary contribution to society. In order to complete a Gold Gaisce Award, each of the recipients set and achieved their own goals across challenge areas that include personal skill, physical activity, community involvement, team adventure journey and a residential project. Gold Award recipient Kirsty Moran, who currently works in the defence forces and was commended for her participation in adventure sports, said, ‘Completing the challenges to achieve the Gaisce Gold Award has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and to be commended by the President of Ireland for achieving this is a real honour. The freedom to set my own goals in areas that already excite me meant I could explore my own interests with the help of the president awards leaders. I’d love to stay involved with Gaisce and help others develop their own goals and aim towards a Gaisce Gold Award in the years to come.’

14 PEOPLE FROM DUBLIN RECEIVE GAISCE GOLD AWARD

CEO of Gaisce, Yvonne McKenna said, ‘Gaisce –The President’s Award is unique in the sense that it encourages young people to set their own personal development goals within a framework that allows them to achieve them and contribute to their communities in their own way. Every single day, I am inspired by the courage, the energy and the commitment of young people doing their Gaisce Award, and I am so thrilled we are getting to celebrate the breath of their achievements, from tackling global challenges like biodiversity to local supports for neighbours in need, young people are consistently push themselves for others. With over 250,000 Awards achieved since 1985, there is an enormous community of like-minded awardees who we encourage to continue their involvement with Gaisce and inspire generations to come.’

For further information on Gaisce – The President’s Award, please visit www. gaisce.ie.

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Jordan Lee explained how important it is for young people to learn from each other “My story is one of resilience, perseverance and determination, I’m looking forward to speaking to these young leaders and give them a detailed insight into my life story and what I’ve learnt from my experiences to help people learn to thrive in perceived difficult circumstances and be able to achieve their Professorgoals”

ASHFIELD COLLEGE, CELEBRATING OVER 45 YEARS OF TEACHING 5TH & 6TH YEAR, HAS CONFIRMED THE APPOINTMENT OF ITS NEW TEACHING PRINCIPAL PHILIP CURRY

Philip has 22 years teaching experience at Ashfield College and has worked as Assistant Principal with the responsibility of timetabling since 2015. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new role in Ashfield College, including the promotion of effective teaching and learning strategies, student support, progressive school projects and technology enhanced learning. In recent years he has delivered revision seminars for the Business Studies Teachers Association at various locations around the country. In his spare time Philip follows all things sport. He has coaching experience with Ballyboden St. Enda’s and he was instrumental in the setup of the Ashfield College/Shamrock Rovers educational partnership. Despite living in the capital for 22 years, Philip is very proud of his West of Ireland roots (Mayo and Sligo). Ashfield College is a Full Time Leaving Cert Day School founded in 1977, located in Dundrum Town Centre, has a long and proud tradition of preparing students for the Leaving Certificate. Currently accepting applications for Leaving Cert 2023 and 2024 visit ashfieldcollege.ie for further information. “

Mark Brennan stated “I’m very excited and honoured to have been invited to be part of the Foróige leadership conference. After a few years away during Covid, it’ll be amazing to see young people back where they belong: Being active leaders for positive social change.”

The conference gives young leaders the opportunity to not only learn from the Pictured left to right; Nicole McMahon, Aaron Curtis, Sean McCabe, TJ Hannify, Rose Duke Keegan, Liam Scott, Anna Finnegan, Julia Tynan, Alicia Mongan speakers and facilitators, but to learn from each other in a fun and safe environment. Young people are playing a greater role than ever before in highlighting the issues that really matter and youth activism and community action are central pillars of our Leadership programme. I’m always in awe of what young people can achieve when given the TJopportunity.”Hannify, 15 from Goatstown said “I’m so excited to be starting my leadership journey! I feel so privileged to be here, it’s such a great opportunity to spend the week learning from each other and the amazing speakers!”

When asked about speaking at this year’s event Yemi Adenuga commented, “As a woman who is very passionate about building women and young people, I am always thankful for every opportunity to inspire, empower and impact the youth so their future can be brighter and their lives better than ours.”

FROM SOUTH DUBLIN ATTEND INTERNATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

250 teenagers from around the world gathered for Foróige’s Leadership for Life Youth Conference. The conference, which was launched on the grounds of NUI Maynooth, brings together young people from the USA, Ukraine, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, South Africa and Ireland to learn how to become leaders in their own lives. During the weeklong conference the teens learned crucial life skills such as empathy, decision making, communication skills, critical thinking and Seánteam-work.Campbell, CEO of Foróige, said “It’s so important for this event to be back again in person.

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BIFE are introducing the following new courses this September:

• Tourism with Airline Studies

• Graphic Design

Over the past few years, graduates of BIFE have achieved honours degrees across a wide range of programmes, opening up a myriad of career opportunities from graphic design to performing arts to psychology.

• Acting • Dance • TV & Film production • Music Production

• Traditional Irish Music

• Equine Studies, • Barista, Pastry & Baking,

Allen assured that there are many opportunities for mature students to study and progress at BIFE. “All courses have valuable certification and offer progression routes to Higher Education, yet you don’t need CAO points to study at Bray Institute.”

Applications for September 2022 Courses are now open. Apply on-line at www.bife. ie or call the Institute any day during office hours on 01-2829668 for further information between 9am and 4pm.

• Applied Ecology & Biodiversity Studies

ARTHUR GRIFFITH’S CENTENARY AT GRIFFITH COLLEGE

• Fine Art - Art Practice

• Applied Ecology & Biodiversity Studies

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qualifications will lead quickly to employment. Likewise, Tourism graduates are highly sought in the airlines, tourism and hospitality sector. With the new Pre-University Law Level 5 you may progress to 3rd Level or decide to work as a highly demanded ParaLegal in a Solicitor’s office. Places are filling up quickly on the hugely popular Healthcare and Nursing Studies courses with great employment opportunities in Children’s Healthcare, Older Person Care and Healthcare Assistant at QQI Levels 5 and 6. Take that first step towards your future career and apply now at www. inchicorecollege.ie

Bray Institute of Further Education are full steam ahead preparing for the new academic year and a return to relative normality this September after the unprecedented nature of the last number of years with COVID-19 Whilerestrictions.inmany cases students, schools and parents see the CAO as the ‘be all and end all’ for those seeking third level education, nothing could be further from the truth according to Gabriel Allen, deputy principal at Bray Institute of Further Education (BIFE). “Over recent years many new avenues have opened up to students to enable them pursue their dream career via a different route.”

This year BIFE will offer Higher National Diplomas in the following:

Dr. Deirdre Keyes CE KWETB, Tom Fortune BIFE board of Management, Simon Harris Minister of Further & Higher Education, Gabriel Allen Deputy Principal BIFE, Ray Tedders Principal BIFE.

• Music Performance

• Film Special Effects

INCHICORE COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION

Pictured at Griffith College, South Circular Road raising the flag at a commemoration event to mark the centenary of Arthur Griffith’s death is the grandson of Arthur Griffith’ Shane Gray with his son Breffni and his children Fionn, Naoise and Oisin. In 1991, Griffith College, then known as Business and Accounting Training, purchased the Griffith Barracks site (now the GCD campus). Tanaiste Leo Varadkar was also in attendance. At that time, Professor Diarmuid Hegarty approached and received the consent of Ita Gray, the only surviving child of Arthur Griffith, to rename the institution Griffith College. The directors of Griffith College want to acknowledge Griffith’s singular contribution to Irish Independence. Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Inchicore College in D.8 is proud of its well-established reputation as one of the largest and most successful PLC colleges. The college is renowned not only for its outstanding student experience and but also its track record for student progression to higher education and employment. In a changing employment landscape, graduates are highly sought after and with this in mind, the college constantly reviews and develops its range of affordable courses. Kickstart your career with great courses Sports Science can lead to a career in orgymtraining,rehabilitationphysiotherapy,andathleticbutifyoulovethethenSportsCoachingConditioningwithITEC

BIFE’s Open Day on Friday 26th August from 10am to 3pm will showcase the large variety of courses they have in the College ranging from Art & Design, Media, Sport, Psychology, Body Therapies, Science, Business, Nursing, Theatre/Dance and much more. “We have over 70 full-time courses to choose from, all progressing on to Higher Education Institutes in Ireland and abroad”, according to Deputy Principal Gabriel Allen. He added, “Further Education offers a learner, who may not have achieved the required CAO points, the opportunity to gain advanced entry onto honours degree Theprogrammes.”hugerange of courses available at BIFE offers learners fabulous opportunities, not only for those looking for additional skills or hoping to go directly into employment, but also as an alternative route on to a college course in a university or institute of technology in Ireland or abroad.

• Primary) • Professional Make-Up & Hairdressing

• Occupational Therapy Assistant

• Special Needs Assistant (Primary & Post-

• Brewing & Distilling Technology,

To discover more about the courses available at BIFE, prospective students are invited to attend their ‘Open Day’ on Friday 26th August from 10am to3pm.

As Gabriel Allen explained, “These eight courses will allow graduating students to proceed to the final year of an honours Degree Programme in Ireland or Britain if that is their ultimate ambition.”

COLLEGE CHOICE - A DIFFERENT PATHWAY WITH BIFE

• Security & Pre-Garda

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NOVENAS FOR LAURA LYNN

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