Rathcoole Saggart News 28th Nov

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has demanded that the Minister for Housing ‘take emergency action to tackle run away rents’ in South Dublin and the rest of the state.

The call was made as the Quarter 3 Daft.ie rent report shows new rents surging by 15% in the south of Dublin. Teachta Crowe said “It is clear that there is a growing housing emergency in this state. The latest Daft. ie rent report has set a new record. In the

last 12 months, new rents have increased by an average of15% to €2,494 a month or €29,928 a year in the South of Dublin.

“These huge sums represent a full wage for many workers and are clearly unaffordable for the vast majority of people. The housing crisis is spiraling out of control and must be stopped.

“The teachers’ unions came out only recently to say that the inability of affordable rental accommodation is a direct threat to the

education system in this country. If teachers cannot afford to live anywhere close to the communities in which they work, how does the government expect children to receive an education?

“It is the same story with nurses, with guards, with so many essential workers in our economy and public services. By allowing the housing crisis to reach such dire proportions, Government has allowed the ripple effects to wreak

havoc right across society. “The Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien must take emergency action to tackle run away rents. This means a three year ban on rent increases. It means a properly designed refundable tax credit to put a month’s rent back into every private renter’s pocket.

“It also means increasing and accelerating the delivery of genuinely affordable cost rental homes. “Not only are the Government’s affordable cost rental targets too low, they’re not even meeting them.

The schemes are badly designed and too much bureaucracy imposed on Local Authorities and Approved Housing Bodies is preventing the delivery of more homes at a faster pace. “Shockingly, Minister Darragh O’Brien recently said that there is no housing emergency. Anyone reading this Daft.ie rent report would beg to differ.

People affected by this crisis every day in Dublin South West would beg to differ.”

GOOD NEWS FOR LOCAL TRAIN COMMUTERS BUT BUS SERVICE STILL FALLING SHORT

Deputy Emer Higgins, Dublin Mid-West’s TD has welcomed the timetable changes announced by Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail which will result in improved services for local train commuters from 11th December. Deputy Higgins said: “These changes will include Twelve additional off-peak Commuter services between Newbridge and Heuston, resulting in trains every 30 minutes Monday to Friday as well as extra services between Hazelhatch and Grand Canal Dock, via Phoenix Park Tunnel on Monday to

Friday.

“This should result in a more frequent service for commuters in Dublin Mid West travelling from the Clondalkin, Adamstown and Hazelhatch stations,” said Deputy Higgins. “And it’s great that they will be up and running by 11th December in time for the Christmas period when public transport can be particularly busy. Deputy Higgins added: “Public transport, particularly the bus services in our local area, is something which I am being contacted about a

lot and there is much work that needs to be done to iron out problems with our local routes.

“Recently, I attended the Oireachtas Transport Committee’s special meeting on the Bus Services in Dublin and I had the opportunity to escalate directly to the NTA, Dublin Bus and Go Ahead, the issues many of us are experiencing with our bus service across Dublin Mid West. “I was told that there are 90 drivers in driving school and 100 drivers awaiting final paperwork approval before they start driving for Go Ahead and once these 190 additional bus drivers are out on the roads in 4-6 weeks time, Go Ahead expect to be able to provide an adequate service for us on their routes like the 18, 175, L51, L52 and 76,” said Deputy Higgins.

“Dublin Bus have also hired 290 new drivers this year and they are continuing to

recruit so they can better serve the C Spine where buses are often full at peak times and can’t stop at every stop and also the G Spine. “I know there have also been issues with the real time bus information and the NTA informed that this was a technical issue with vehicle location but that it should now been fixed.

“The NTA also committed to looking at the logistics of a number of routes I highlighted including, the C Spine which does not serve Hillcrest or Dodsboro, the 68X which was cancelled without any notice to commuters, the P29 which I believe should start earlier, the 151 which I feel should link to Adamstown and the W6 orbital route through Newcastle which is due to commence in two halves instead of as a full route. “I think these additional rail service will be of real benefit to commuters and I will continue to raise

Dublin is absolutely brilliant over Christmas.. Until it’s time to get home. We know that taxis can be an absolute nightmare over the festive period so this year we’ve decided to launch our very own Foxhunter Express.

This is a free service for all Foxhunter customers where we’ll be offering pick up & drop off services. We may even whack on a few Christmas tunes along the way!

There are 16 seats available and The Foxhunter Express will be operating in Lucan, Celbridge & Leixlip. So, leave the car at home, have a few welldeserved drinks & enjoy a stress-free journey home this Christmas.

OFFICIAL OPENING AT SCOIL AONGHUSA

LIGHT UP YOUR BIKE!

The four Dublin Local Authorities, An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority, and the Dublin Cycling Campaign call on cyclists to ‘Light Up Your Bike’ during the darker commutes. Now that the clocks have gone back road users may be faced with darker commutes and those that cycle are reminded that the use of bike lights is a legal requirement when cycling during lighting up periods, which is from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. If you choose to cycle without lights, or your lights fail when on the road, you become less visible, as well as running the risk of a €40 fixed penalty notice.

‘Light Up Your Bike’ is a Dublin Cycling Campaign initiative which promotes the legal requirement to have properly working bike lights and to use them during lighting up periods. The use of bike lights helps increase your visibility to other road users, with many types and styles on the market to choose from. Most bike lights tend to be battery or dynamo operated. If using battery operated bike lights, it is important to remember that they may run out of power whilst on the commute. That’s why it is important to have a back up pair which you can easily attach to your bike in the event you require them to get you to your destination. It is also important to remember that bikes lights are not just for adults they are to be used by children and teenagers when cycling to school.

Mayor Emma Murphy, South Dublin County Council, said: “I am delighted to support the Light up your Bike initiative, along with colleagues from South Dublin County Council, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Fingal County Council, An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority and the Dublin Cycling Campaign. As the active travel network in Dublin extends, cycling is becoming a more viable option for a greater number of people. Lighting up during the darker winter months is essential for keeping cyclists visible and safe on our roads. I encourage cyclists of all ages to light up their bikes during their winter cycles.”

National Roads Policing Bureau, said: “An Garda Síochána is, as always, delighted to be part of this very important road safety initiative. A bicycle is not just for leisure but also used as a daily transport option. Cycling offers freedom and independence, but with that comes a personal responsibility for all cyclists to ensure they and their bicycles are appropriately equipped, protected and visible on the roads, particularly during these dark evenings and mornings. The ‘Light Up Your Bike’ campaign is about bringing awareness to cycling safely on our roads.

An Garda Síochána is committed to playing its part in educating and protecting all road users, through the issuing of road safety advice and the enforcement of Road Traffic legislation. It is an offence for a cyclist not to have a front lamp or rear lamp illuminated during lighting-up hours. An Garda Síochána are asking cyclists to make sure they are visible to all other road users by equipping their bicycles, and children’s bicycles, with the correct lighting, while using the roads

Sam Waide, CEO, the Road Safety Authority said: “I am pleased to be supporting this very important ‘Light UP Your Bike’ initiative to remind cyclists to make sure they have the correct lights on their bikes and to check them regularly. This is to help ensure that they are more visible to motorists and other road users. They must have a white or yellow light to the front of the bike and a red light at the back. As the evenings are getting darker we need to ensure that the lights are also working on our children’s bikes and remind them to check them regularly.”

Ellen Cullen, Chair of Dublin Cycling Campaign, said: “I am delighted that the four Dublin Local Authorities, An Garda Síochána, and RSA, have come together to support the Light Up Your Bike initiative. Using good quality lights on your bike is the best way to improve your visibility to other road users during darker mornings and evenings. Bike lights are a legal requirement during Lighting-Up hours, which is from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise.”

Superintendent Thomas Murphy, Garda

Picture credit:Ben Ryan

Pictured at the official opening of the Hub at Scoil Aonghusa Balrothery were (L to R) Cllr. Charlie O’Connor, children’s books author Sarah Webb, school Principal Michelle Hamilton and Cllr. Mick Duff.

SHOCKING ASSAULT ON TWO GARDAÍ HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR TARGETED AND URGENT RESPONSE

A vicious assault on two garda members highlights the need for an urgent and targeted response to antisocial behaviour in Dublin

communities, according to Senator Mary Seery Kearney.

Senator Mary Seery Kearney said: “The latest attack on two garda members in

Ballyfermot while in the line of duty is reprehensible and it represents another attack on a wonderful community who are appalled by this type of law-breaking.

“My thoughts are with the garda members as they recover from their injuries, and I would urge anyone with information to contact An Garda Síochána. “An effective policing plan forms an important part of the response here, but it is not the only answer as the community needs to be involved and they must have assurances that everything that can be done will be done to ensure they feel safe and supported. “These attacks represent an affront to our frontline workers and decent, law-abiding people who today are living in fear and thinking what will happen next following a breakdown in law and order in their community.

“It was only a few weeks ago that another incident

occurred in the area when two gardaí were injured after their patrol car was rammed on Cherry Orchard Avenue. “Recently, I was in Cherry Orchard continuing my work meeting community groups to discuss what more can be done to tackle this type of anti-social behaviour and to ensure that their voices are heard as part of the new policing plan for the area. “There was agreement that an intergovernmental and cross agency response is required, with additional resources allocated to local Garda stations as a matter of urgency so that they have the supports needed to deal with these type of incidents and ultimately, prevent them from happening.

“I am committed to working with my colleague, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, to put in place the most effective policing response for the area and I know the Minister is committed to continuing to engage with

the community in Cherry Orchard. “I am proud of Fine Gael and Minister McEntee’s commitment to stronger safer communities.

Great work is being done with the Budget providing for 1000 Gardai and 400 administrative staff that will bring visible community policing and in the interim we need more visibility on the streets of great communities like Ballyfermot. “Another great

initiative is the Community Safety Innovation Fund the people of Ballyfermot and Cherry Orchard need to see the tangible evidence of that increased funding on their streets. “I echo the calls for body cameras to protect gardai and the public - the passage of this legislation must be hurried through the Oireachtas so that great communities can feel the benefit of modern policing.”

Charlie O’Connor has congratulated the 3 Tallaght Groups and wished them well.

for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has welcomed confirmation from senior local gardaí that motorists who have been unable to secure an NCT appointment before their current certificate lapses but have booked a test will not fall foul of the law given that their vehicle remains roadworthy.

Speaking after the recent Joint Policing Committee in County Hall, Teachta Crowe said “After attending a Joint Policing Committee in County Hall, I was able to speak to senior local gardaí about the delays that many motorists are experiencing regarding delays and difficulties in securing an NCT appointment. “Many local residents had come to me worried that they would be forced to take their car off the road for fear of being stopped by a garda and not having a

valid test certificate.

“I was very pleased to hear that the gardaí will be taking a commonsense approach to people who have a test booked, but were unable to secure an appointment for a date before their previous test lapsed. “All motorists in this position must ensure that they have proof of their NCT appointment in the car at all times.

“The gardaí also made pains to mention however that all cars on the road must be roadworthy and that gardaí will still be vigilant for road traffic hazards such as bald tyres or missing lights.

“I recently wrote to Minister Eamon Ryan highlighting the concerns that surround the weeks and even months long delays in securing NCT appointments and the inconvenience this is posing to people trying to book tests.”

THE RAMS CD LAUNCH

After many months of practice and singing the RAMS in Rhythm finally launched their first Christmas Carol CD. The venue for the launch was with kind permission of the Mill Shopping Centre Clondalkin. Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Emma Murphy launched the event. The Mayor spoke very highly of the excellent support that the RAMS give to many various charities, and the great joy they bring to events, including Peamount Hospital, Tallaght University Hospital, local nursing homes, fundraising events in shopping centres, for their nominated charities; SVP Local Branch, Down Syndrome, Our Lady’s Hospice and Capuchin Fathers. Proceeds from the sale of the cd’s will be donated to the four charities before Christmas.

The group also welcomed Deputy Emer Higgins and Cllr Shirley O Hara, who too joined in all the fun, and celebrations. The atmosphere in The Mill Centre was “electric” with

so many of the shoppers gathering around, and enjoying the launch, and the fun. Many shoppers line dancing, doing a sing along, and getting into the spirit of Christmas. Diners in the Dunnes cafe, all clapped along to the new release of our Carols on the CD. Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer, was such a favourite with the young children, as was “I saw Mammy kissing Santa Claus” The RAMS in Rhythm Cd contains eighteen of our favourite Christmas songs. The Cd is now on sale. Discs are available from Musical Director Mr Liam O Donnell,

by calling 0872655683.

The launch of the Cd, also coincided with the fundraising for the Capuchin Day Centre Dublin. With Fr.Kevin of the Capuchin Fathers, calling out to wish the RAMS well with the sale of our Cd’s. A total of €2455 was donated to the Capuchin Day centre, from the generosity of the customers, staff, and the premises of the Mill Centre.

The RAMS in Rhythm consist of 13 members, all senior men - Matt Dowling, Ciaran Dowling, Liam O

Weldon. Members range in age from 75 years of age to 89 years of age. The RAMS in Rhythm have many engagements now before Christmas, including the Square Shopping Centre on Saturday 2nd December from 12 noon, to 3 pm. Many thanks to all the patrons who purchased the cd, and to all their Families who came out to support, and to the local shops who were most generous.

Donnell, Jim Nolan, Ray O Haire, Amby Maloney, Paddy Becton, Sean Keane, Jim Dwan, Lorcan Ryan, Foxy, Brian Tierney and Pat

PROGRESS TO ADDRESS ESSENTIAL ROOFING REPAIRS WELCOMED

Local Sinn Féin Councillor for Lucan, Palmerstown and North Clondalkin Derren Ó Brádaigh, has welcomed the recent update by South Dublin County Council, that will progress ‘essential works’ identified from a roofing repairs survey carried out on homes in Balgaddy. Cllr Ó Brádaigh said “Early in 2021 there was a commitment given

by the Housing Maintenance Section of South Dublin County Council to commence a significant survey undertaking to produce and inform a definitive understanding of the task and cost to implementing essential roofing repairs across Balgaddy. Residents of homes on Foxdene Avenue along with a significant

number of homes in Meile an Rí, Tor an Rí and Buirg an Rí have had to endure the ill-effects of shoddy roof construction, with resulting dampness and mould in many instances related directly and indirectly to leaking roofs for far too long”.

The councillor was commenting following a

recent question put to the local area committee “To date, the inspections have identified several areas for attention and projects are being advanced, with tender specifications being finalised to allow for tender to commence in 2023. Repairs to flat roofs will include roof insulation to address issues around water ingress and poor insulation. Some works have been completed on Foxdene Avenue. A further 14 homes have now been identified for necessary works in Tor an Rí, with survey works continuing elsewhere in Méile an Rí and Buirg an Rí.

Whilst a lot of good effort and focus is on Balgaddy and all works are to be welcome, these works together with much more general remedial upgrades are long overdue. The nature of the roofing works and the materials being used are subject to seasonal constraints. The tender process is taking this into account to allow projects to commence in March or April of 2023. Back in April 2021, I had a motion agreed

pressing upon the council for this investigative roofing survey and I welcome the positive development that now builds upon the council’s commitment to

fully see these essential project works through, providing residents with the basic secure shelter and peace of mind they deserve.”

FIGURES SHOW DEMAND FOR FULL-TIME AND FULLY-EQUIPPED LIBRARY IN PALMERSTOWN

An increase in the use of Palmerstown Library Digital Hub shows that there is an appetite for a full-time and fully-equipped library service in the area, according to David Gardiner, Workers’ Party representative for Palmerstown-Fonthill.

Gardiner said “A pilot scheme of extended opening hours this year led to a doubling of weekly visits and a 43% increase in readership, according to the council. This shows a clear desire from people in Palmerstown for an expanded library service. “While provision for an additional 13.5 staffed hours has been made by the council, the Workers’ Party believes this should go further. A larger space operated on a full-time basis would greatly expand on the brilliant work being carried out by staff in the library at the moment.”

“Being more flexible time-wise would give a greater number of people a greater opportunity to access their library service. Additionally, a larger space would mean different things could be happening in the library at the same time. People could read and study in one room while a lecture or other event took place in another.” “It would be an ambitious project, but similar has rightfully been provided in other areas in recent years. The council should be ambitious in serving citizens, and that includes the people of Palmerstown.”

COUNCILLOR OUTRAGED BY MINISTER’S DISREGARD FOR DEMOCRACY

TALLAGHT DRUGS & ALCOHOL TASK FORCE PLAN LAUNCH

in South Dublin. People Before Profit councillor Madeleine Johansson, who had proposed the moratorium, made the comments following the decision by the Minister on Friday 18th November. The Minister for Local Government Peter Burke issued a direction to South Dublin County Council to remove the democratic decision of councillors to ban new data centres for the duration of the County Development Plan 2022-28.

Cllr Johansson said: “I proposed this motion back in June and it was passed as councillors understood the hugely negative impact that data centres are having in our community and globally. South Dublin has become the data centre hub of Ireland, almost half of all data centres in the country are found here. Currently, data centres use about 14% of our electricity and by 2030 they will use 30%. According to reports, by 2030, data centre development is projected

to add at least 1.5 MtCO to Ireland’s carbon emissions. That’s a 15% increase in current electricity-related emissions.

These centres are putting a huge strain on our national grid and may result in blackouts this winter. If we want to meet our climate targets for 2030 a moratorium on data centres is needed now.

It’s outrageous that Minister Peter Burke continues to facilitate large corporations ahead of our local communities and he has shown a complete disrespect for local democracy. The Minister

justified his direction through the use of one line from a regional planning policy, while I, in my motion, gave a number of planning reasons and quoted a number of national and regional planning policies. This shows that the issue here is not about proper planning and sustainable development but about unconditional support for multinational corporations by the current government.

We must resist attempts to undermine local democracy in favour of big business and we must continue the fight to ban new data centres in South Dublin and across the island.”

Pictured at the launch of the Strategic Plan of the Tallaght Drugs & Alcohol Task Force in the St Aengus Community Action Group Centre were (L to R) Cllr. Charlie O’Connor, Cllr. Mick Duff, Mayor Emma Murphy, Cllr. Alan Edge and Deputy Sean Crowe.

A local councillor has expressed her outrage at the overturning of a moratorium on data centres

258 SCRAMBLE BIKES SEIZED IN THE LAST TWO YEARS

Efforts to crack down on the antisocial use of scramblers has led to the seizure of 258 scrambler bikes in the last two years, a local TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins, TD for Dublin Mid West, has welcomed the seizures and is calling on parents to heed the Road Safety Authority’s recent advice that scramblers are not an appropriate Christmas present for children.

Deputy Higgins said, “Scramblers present a

real danger to users, as evidenced by recent figures from the RSA that a significant amount of those who are injured in scrambler accidents are under the age of 18. “The antisocial behaviour often associated with scrambler use can be very intimidating for communities, which is why I welcome that a large number of scramblers have been seized since the Gardaí were given enhanced seizure powers last year.

“A recent parliamentary

question revealed to me that 258 scramblers have been seized nationally by An Garda Siochana since 2021, with 178 seized last year, and 80 seized this year so far.

“In terms of the Dublin picture, 99 scramblers were seized in the capital last year and 44 have been seized so far this year, which I hope leads to not only less scramblers on our roads and less anti-social behaviour, but also less fatal or serious accidents. “Previously we have seen that the misuse of scramblers was extremely challenging for the Gardaí to police, something which my Fine Gael colleague in Clondalkin, Cllr. Kenneth Egan, has been doing great

work in highlighting,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

Cllr. Egan said, “The sound of scramblers on our streets and in our parks has become all too familiar and, in my experience, they can be very intimidating for other members of the community. I really welcome that the enhanced seizure powers given to the Gardaí has led to 258 seizures since 2021. “Scramblers are not toys. At best, they are intimidating and noisy and at worst, they can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. I would certainly be calling on parents to think twice before buying their child a scrambler or anything similar this Christmas,” concluded Cllr. Egan.

STEPPING STONES AT TALLAGHT COMMUNITY NATIONAL SCHOOL

Pictured at the Stepping Stones Tree Planting at Tallaght Community National School were: Coordinator John Kiberd, Mayor Emma Murphy and Councillor Charlie O’Connor

JUNIOR GENIUS – CHILDCARE WITH A DIFFERENCE

CARE IN THE HOME SHOULD BE ONE OF THE HIGHEST PRIORITIES OF OUR HEALTH SERVICE

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe said that delivering care in the home should be one of the highest priorities of our health service and of any government, not least because of the benefits of independent living for many of our elderly citizens, but also due to the relieved pressure on our hospital system.

Speaking in the Dáil recently, Teachta Crowe said “If we want to pay more than lip service to independent living, delivering care in the home should be one of the highest priorities of our health service and of any government. “Demographics suggest that we are all living longer, which is a good thing, but worryingly it is suggested that if people are not well off, they will struggle as they get older and the quality of their extended life will be poor unless supports are increased dramatically. It is an abandonment of our duty to our older and more vulnerable citizens that it is often beyond the ability of many families to afford private home care.

“Some 1,000 people unnecessarily experienced a delayed discharge from hospitals this year because the home care packages are just not there. If we want to look at the problems further, there is a lack of step-down beds, which impacted on another 7,000 people being discharged.

The pressure our lack of focus on issues like home care puts on the hospital system is enormous. “By way of an example of some of the challenges being faced, there were 11 ambulances outside Tallaght University Hospital on a recent weekend. There are 12 ambulances in the Dublin Fire Brigade fleet, 10 of which were outside that hospital. There is a problem within the system.

“I ask any member of government to point out a hospital in the country that does not have people lying on beds because they do not have somewhere else to go. I do not know of any such hospital and that is the experience my colleagues and I are hearing about. We need to do more regarding that. The almost glacial speed of changes to the provision of care in the public service needs to change.

“In my area, Tallaght University Hospital recently commenced the Pathfinder service with the National Ambulance Service, which it is hoped will reduce the need for patients to attend the accident and emergency department, but this took years to expand following an experimental pilot programme in Beaumont Hospital. Despites its success, there seems to be a delay. We need to be more proactive, move quicker and realise the benefits of a successful project sooner rather than later.

Deputy Emer Higgins Dublin Mid-West TD, was delighted to bring Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman to visit Junior Genius Childcare in Baldonnnel, along with Cllr. Shirley O’Hara. Junior Genius is an innovative childcare facility Co-founded and run by Andrea Jebb and her brilliant team who care for and educate 400 children, doing pioneering work in the area of children’s emotional, nutritional and spiritual well-being

Pictured Deputy Emer Higgins TD, Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman and Cllr. Shirley O’Hara pictured with co-founder of Junior Genius Childcare Andrea Jebb and her management team.

SCOIL MHUIRE GNS SAYS

‘YES’ TO LANGUAGES

Over 120 third and fourth class pupils from Scoil Mhuire Girls’ N.S. Lucan are currently taking part in the Primary Language Sampler module, ‘Say Yes to Languages’, an initiative made available by the Department of Education as part of Ireland’s national Strategy for Foreign Languages in Education 2017–2026. The initiative was met with overwhelming enthusiasm in primary schools nationwide last year and with the extension of the pilot scheme for a second year this year, interest looks set to continue with 700 schools having registered to take part in 2022/2023.

‘Say Yes to Languages’ offers an introduction into a variety of modern foreign languages and Irish Sign Language (ISL) while also looking to raise awareness among pupils of the diversity of languages being used by their peers in their schools and community. The pupils at Scoil Mhuire Girls’ N.S. are saying YES to Irish Sign Language (ISL), with ISL lessons being delivered over an eight-week period during the normal school timetable.

Speaking about the module Principal Sinéad Bennis notes, “We are delighted to be taking part in ‘Say Yes to Languages’ this year. The response has been overwhelmingly positive right across the school community– from pupils and teachers to parents and tutors. We chose ISL as our target language for the SAY Yes to Languages initiative as we have a number of pupils within our school community who have hearing loss and/ or communication difficulties, and some for whom ISL is their only language of communication. Giving our pupils and staff an opportunity to learn ISL will enrich our school and ensure that Scoil Mhuire Girls’ N.S. is a welcoming and innovative learning environment in which all of our pupils feel

included and valued.”

“It is a fun, interactive and engaging programme which really begins to set the foundations for an ongoing positive relationship with languages and in the context of our choice of Irish Sign Language as our target language, it promotes inclusion within our school community. This will be of great benefit to our pupils as they continue through their education, hopefully bringing with them a love of languages, and will enable them to contribute to building an equitable and inclusive society” adds

Principal Sinéad Bennis

Tutors of the module may be teachers or part of the wider school community including parents, native speakers or other staff members. Ms. Jennifer Cooper is delivering the ISL module this year at Scoil Mhuire Girls’ N.S. and is excited to have the opportunity to share her passion for ISL with the pupils, having gained the skills while studying in the Centre for Deaf Studies, Trinity College Dublin, for four years and her subsequent work within the education sector as an ISL tutor and advocate. The module is being rolled out with the support of Languages Connect and PPLI (PostPrimary Languages Ireland), a unit of the Department of Education.

A suite of resources has been produced including lesson plans for teachers and tutors and ‘Language Passports’ for all participating pupils to show their family and friend. Packs have been sent to participating schools to help support both the teaching and learning, but also awareness raising objectives of the module. More information regarding the modules, tutor expression of interest and supports are available at www. languagesconnect.ie/primary

TAX-FREE THRESHOLD FOR RENT-A-ROOM RELIEF SHOULD BE INCREASED TO ENCOURAGE ITS TAKE-UP

The tax-free threshold for the rent-a-room relief scheme should be increased to encourage more property owners to avail of it, according to local TD Emer Higgins. Deputy Higgins, a member of the Oireachtas Housing Committee, said: “The rent-a-room relief has two primary advantages; it helps homeowners to make additional income and it also increases the availability

of rooms and the supply of accommodation.

“You can earn up to €14,000 per calendar year, completely tax free, which equates to income of up to €1,166.66 per month under the scheme over a 12 month period. If it were to be increased to €18,000 per year, this would bring the income figure up to €1,500 per month. “In

2018 according to the most recent figures available, some 9,240 people availed of Rent-a-Room relief at a cost of €19.7m to the Exchequer, which amounted to an average tax saving per participant of some €2,100.

“At a time when we are facing acute pressure in the rental accommodation sector, it makes perfect sense for property owners

to consider renting out a spare room to those in need of accommodation.

“It could also apply to older people whose children have left home and they may wish to boost their income in retirement, or first-time homeowners with larger mortgages who could do with the help from such a measure.

“To qualify for rent-a-room

relief, the room or rooms being let must form part of the residence occupied by the individual receiving the rent as her/ his sole or main residence during the tax year. A self-contained unit, such as a basement flat or a converted garage attached to the person’s home, can qualify for this relief.

“If the property owner rents out a room to a student, the Department of Further and Higher Education has confirmed this will

not impact on eligibility for the student grant. “I believe the Government should carry out a highprofile communications campaigning encouraging people to rent out a room in their homes with information on the relief scheme and how they can claim it.

“Further information can be found at www.revenue. ie/en/personal-tax-creditsreliefs-and-exemptions. ” Deputy Higgins concluded.

FESTIVE FUNDRAISER

– SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER

A Festive FUNdraiser will take place in Rathfarnham Quaker Meeting House, 62 Crannagh Road, D14 PY99, on Saturday 3rd December from 12:00 – 15:00. All welcome!

Stalls will include art and crafts, Christmas cards and gifts, cakes and savouries, organic vegetables, potted plants, books, CDs and DVDs. A kids’ fun zone will include art activities, a magic show and children’s toys and books. There will also be a fun photo booth and a café where tea, coffee, soup and home-made treats will be served.

Entrance charge: adults €2, children free. All proceeds will go to Irish Quaker Faith in Action, which supports a variety of projects in Ireland and overseas with a particular focus on social action, justice and peacebuilding. See www.iqfa.net to find out more.

MOTHER-OF-THREE WHO EMBRACED CHANGE CALLS ON “SCARED AND HIDDEN” ADULTS TO TRANSFORM THEIR LIVES

A mother-of-three who has gone from hunger and near homelessness to enjoying a prestigious career with a high-profile corporate is calling on “scared and hidden” adults to embrace change by taking a step into adult community education. Addressing An Cosán supporters at a Winter Ball fundraiser in The Shelbourne on Friday 11th November 2022, Korina Koler said her life had been transformed since signing up two years ago to a course with An Cosán, Ireland’s largest community education provider. The Level 5 Business Administration with Digital Skills programme she completed in January had boosted her confidence and equipped her with essential digital skills for working in an office environment.

Korina, who is originally from Croatia but has lived in Dublin the past seven years, said she was now enjoying her new role as PA to the CEO of Rethink Ireland, Deirdre Mortell. She is in the third year of a BA degree programme in Business Enterprise and Community Development with the Technological University of Shannon Athlone. All while bringing up three young children. Korina shared with the audience how anxious she felt returning to education. “However, all of my concerns vanished during my first class at An Cosán,” she said. “The

tutors were amazing; they cherished everyone’s different backgrounds and treated everyone the same. They understood my skills and flaws, and they supported me through every stage of my transition to a new approach to life. I had never experienced such support from an educational institution.”

Korina shared how An Cosán’s unique education model, which includes holistic wraparound supports (financial, IT and parenting support as well as one-to-one mentoring and counselling), enabled her to make the changes she wanted to see in her life. “My dreams have come true,” she said. “I have since been hired by an amazing organisation and I will soon hold a BA degree. I am happy and content and I am a role model for my children. I truly believe that only the sky’s the limit now.”

Korina said that people facing difficult circumstances, “scared and hidden individuals” like she had been, could be “brought back to life” with the support of organisations like An Cosán, so that they could make real change in their communities. “I believe all of us can contribute in some way to helping other people embrace change, so that we can all be involved in rebuilding society,” she concluded. Thanking Ms

Koler for sharing her story, Keith Duffy, MC for the Winter Ball, said: “Thank you, Korina, for the privilege of hearing your story. No wonder An Cosán is proud of you! It is clear to me that An Cosán is making a huge difference in people’s lives, and that what makes An Cosán different is the warm embrace they have for learners, and how much they support learners on their journey of empowerment through education. The more I learn about the organisation, the more I am in awe.

“With its bold and ambitious new strategy, Vision 2026: Transforming Lives Together, An Cosán plans to provide education to an additional 20,000 learners by 2030. This is as many in the next seven years as they have supported over the last 36 years. It’s a step change in ambition with ambitious goals, but with strong and inspirational leaders, like the Chair Anna Durkan and CEO Heydi Foster, at the helm, I have no doubt that this goal will be achieved, resulting in transformed lives and stronger communities across Ireland.”

Over €40,000 was raised by the Winter Ball. These funds will support An Cosán’s work providing adult education, early years’ education and mental health services in West Tallaght and in communities across Ireland.

WE’RE HIRING

Momentum Support – An ABM Company, is one of Ireland’s largest privately-owned, award-winning provider of cleaning and associated services. We have employees from over 50 nationalities working alongside each other, and we strive to be an inclusive and welcoming employer.

Currently we are seeking a HSEQ Advisor to join our Governance, Risk & Compliance Department. The HSEQ Advisor will be responsible for developing company HSEQ management systems to ensure compliance, working closely with the GRC Manager to ensure HSEQ compliance requirements are being met in accordance with legislative regulations and guidelines.

The successful candidate will provide expert advice to teams throughout the business in order to embed the company HSEQ ethos and culture. The role will be primarily based in Dublin, however flexibility is required to travel throughout Northern Ireland.

Candidate requirements:

• A full, clean driving licence

• Relevant experience in a HSEQ role

• Health & Safety / environmental qualification essential e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH

• Auditing qualification desirable e.g., IRCA

Salary / Key Benefits;

• Salary €45k-€50k depending on experience

• Company car / Laptop / Mobile Phone

• Flexible working hours

• Career Progression

Should you be interested in this opportunity please forward your updated CV and cover letter to Zach Corbett by emailing Zach.Corbett@momentumsupport.co.uk or call 01 – 6792288.

Momentum Support is an equal opportunities employer.

Pictured Chair Anna Durkan (left), CEO Heydi Foster (centre), Vice Chair Conal Henry & Board Mairead Butler, Bill Roche & Dee Kehoe

MOTORING LIFE WITH JAGUAR I-PACE OFFERS EXHILARATING PERFORMANCE

By Breda Corrigan

Jaguar brought us the first fully-electric vehicle from an established luxury car manufacturer in 2018 with the launch of the incredible I-PACE mid-size luxury SUV. Right from the get-go, the Jaguar I-PACE proved itself to be an impressive luxury EV that combined sleek styling, clever packaging, outstanding comfort and a bespoke sense of luxury that Jaguar buyers expect, while recent improvements have made the I-PACE even more desirable than ever. The revised I-PACE gains new infotainment tech in the form of Jaguar Land Rover’s Pivi Pro multimedia system, along with a powerful Meridian 3D sound system. Additionally, Jaguar engineers have improved the car’s charging ability by adding a new 11kW AC onboard charger, which enables a 100km charge in just 15 minutes when connected to a 100kW DC power source.

Futuristic Design Language.

Blurring the lines between an SUV, a fourdoor coupé, and a saloon car, the I-PACE can be described as being a mixture of all of the above, and it targets a similar kind of customer as the Audi e-tron, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Mercedes-Benz EQC. The low roofline, squat nose and tapering window line make the I-PACE look very sporty from many angles, and this is sure to be an attraction to buyers who don’t want their EV to look dull and boring. The striking exterior design of the I-PACE is the result of the coming together of true Jaguar

DNA, FIA Formula E Racing technology and contemporary British design. The bold grille curves inwards, reducing drag by channelling air through the bonnet scoop and out, where it passes over the curved roofline for maximum efficiency. Deployable flush door handles ensure the airflow moves smoothly around the entire exterior, while the swept-back and sleek headlight design emphasises the clean lines of the I-PACE, highlighting the futuristic design language.

Trim Options.

The Jaguar I-PACE is available in a choice of exterior colours, visual packs and wheel options, with S, SE and HSE trim variants on offer, along with the new I-PACE Black edition. The I-PACE Black enhances an already visually-appealing exterior with gloss black trim elements, sporty 20” alloy wheels, and a panoramic roof as standard. The I-PACE is claimed to be Jaguar’s most torsionally-rigid vehicle, and it has an ideal 50:50 weight distribution which results in terrific ride and handling characteristics.

Twin synchronous permanent magnet electric motors (one at each axle) provide the I-PACE with the benefit of permanent all-wheel drive, and a large-capacity 90kWh lithium-ion battery sits under the cabin floor between the front and rear wheels.

Uncluttered Cabin.

The stylish and uncluttered I-PACE cabin

offers a sumptuous design that will delight all occupants, with exquisite features – such as the new Jaguar Heritage logo monogram on the rotary controls – showing the terrific attention to detail undertaken by Jaguar’s interior designers. The cab-forward design of the I-PACE means the front seats are placed further forward. This creates more space between the front and rear seats, giving rear seat passengers added legroom.

The absence of a conventional gearbox means there is storage within the ‘floating’ centre console for items such as phones, electronic devices and keys. Other practical stowage solutions within the I-PACE consist of a glove box with 7.7-litres of usable capacity, along with rear seat storage that can fit anything from headphones to umbrellas. In the boot of the car, you will find 89-litres of underfloor storage, and a 665-litre luggage compartment that is easy to access thanks to a wide boot opening.

Test Car.

My Jaguar I-PACE Black test car was finished in elegant Portofino Blue metallic paintwork which complimented the standard 20” gloss black alloy wheels. An outstanding array of standard comfort, convenience, safety and infotainment features adorn the I-PACE Black, and key features include rear privacy glass, Premium LED headlights with signature daytime running lights, Duo Leather sports seats, 12-way electric driver

memory front seats, 40:20:40 folding rear seats with centre armrest, Pivi Pro 10” touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Jaguar remote app, rear camera, cruise control with speed limiter, driver condition monitor, and lane keep assist. With 395bhp and a mighty 696Nm of instant torque on offer, the I-PACE can complete a 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.8 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 200km/h (where permitted). Instant acceleration allows for a near-silent thrust of power that is so well judged you can tap into the acceleration as and when you need to. As a result, the I-PACE is a supremely relaxing, refined car to drive around town and on longer journeys. Jaguar claims a real-world driving range of up to 470kms on a combined driving cycle, and charge times from 0-80% in 40 minutes at a rapid 100kW DC public charger, with AC wallbox charging (7kW) taking 10 hours from 0-100%.

Verdict;

As one of the few all-electric compactluxury SUVs on the market, the Jaguar I-PACE is genuinely impressive and highly desirable. Despite its size and EV powertrain, the I-PACE is a true Jaguar, with car-like handling and a quiet cabin.

Pricing starts at €80,380 (ex-works) for the I-PACE Black, with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty and an 8-year battery warranty as standard.

TEN DUBLINERS RECEIVE CLIMATE AMBASSADOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

In 2022, Climate Ambassadors completed 661 climate actions, directly engaging over 274,000 people, creating 2,671 climate communications, and reaching an estimated 5.6 million people!

The Climate Ambassador Awards were held on Friday, November 18th, serving to recognise the tremendous effort and dedication demonstrated throughout the year. Each Climate Ambassador received a certificate of recognition, with an additional twelve awards presented to teams and individuals from swap shops and flash mobs, to musicians and artists, sports stars, farmers, social entrepreneurs, community activists, businesses and universities. This year, four of the groups or individuals are Dublin based.

Gobnait Ní Neill – Drimnagh, Dublin 12. Gobnait is never afraid to get stuck in outdoors. Not only is she passionate about raising awareness of the climate and biodiversity crises on social media, but she has also been busy organising and delivering mini pond workshops, biodiversity, bird and bat walks and planting over 280 native trees. She is founder of the Drimnagh community environmental group and more recently the Grassroots Guild supporting community environmental action. Mark George – Dun Laoghaire, County Dublin.

Mark is active on social media, always highlighting the work others are doing and lifting us up in what can often be a negative space. As a tweeter, he’s a ray of sunshine, nudging over 165,000 people along in a sustainable direction this year, and he’s an avid citizen scientist. He has planted over 200 trees this year and as part of his role as leader of a biodiversity group, has made strong links with Sandyford Business district, the Native Woodland Trust, ReWild Wicklow, Snapshot Europe, and Friends of the Grand Canal.

Flash Mob Team (from left to right): Cathy Baxter presents the award to Fionn Fitzpatrick, Angela Deegan and Tiffany Zhou. This group demonstrated a fun and creative way to grab media attention for climate change. In total they did four flash mob performances in Dublin in North Earl Street, Trinity and Stephens Green. Individually, they carried out various actions including the installation of water butts, swap shops, food waste workshops, beach cleans and Cycle-4-Climate events. Communications ranged from organizing peer parliaments, radio interviews and using their platforms to document sustainable travel via bike and rail. The flash mob was produced by Angela, designed by Tiffany and filmed and edited by Fionn.

Swap Shop Social Team

(from left to right): Rachel Thornburgh, Alex Reilly, Karolina Pawlak, Rachel O’Loughlin and Rachel Harris. This group of women are powerful individually, but together, they are even stronger! A great team to see in action - always happy to lend a hand and keen to share their sustainable fashion principles. Each of them have used their platform, to influence and share their knowledge on sustainable fashion, as well as working on other areas such as sustainable food, cooking and wildlife conservation.

Climate Ambassadors; 191 citizens from a wide range of backgrounds including primary school teachers, secondary school students and teachers, university students, academics, farmers and businesspeople were all chosen to be Climate Ambassadors in 2022. The programme, which has been in operation since 2018, has become stronger over time as Climate Ambassadors have acquired crucial skills and confidence to take action, motivating others to follow in their footsteps along the way.

Climate Ambassadors receive training at the start of the year in climate science, solutions and communications which enables them to carry out climate actions. Throughout the year they are asked to undertake

four key actions – two climate communications and two climate actions, though many participants

get involved in many more projects. This programme allows individuals to join a strong network of

dedicated people who share knowledge, gain insight from one another, and forge long lasting relationships.

GRANTS FOR VACANT PROPERTIES EXPANDED TO RURAL AND URBAN AREAS IN DUBLIN

Grants of up to €50,000 for homeowners of vacant and derelict properties have been extended to both rural areas and cities and will be available under the Croí Conaithe Towns scheme.

Senator Mary Seery Kearney has recently confirmed the scheme, first launched in July to towns and villages, has been expanded so that all areas of the country, including Dublin, are within the scope of the scheme.

Senator Mary Seery Kearney said: “This expansion is very welcome news for those in Dublin and one which was called for by my colleagues.

Grants for property owners are available to apply for from Dublin City Council and South Dublin County Council with €30,000 being the maximum offered for properties which have been vacant for over two years, and €50,000 for derelict properties which may be structurally unsound.

“My colleague, Minister Peter Burke, has launched

the expanded Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, so that even more vacant and derelict properties in Dublin can be brought back into residential use. Furthermore, our existing housing stock can be best utilised to provide more homes for people in Dublin. “The grants can also be combined with the SEAI Better Energy Home Scheme that covers works of up to €26,750. They are available to individuals and families who will use the property as their primary dwelling and is another measure being employed to support home ownership and provide more homes for our citizens.

“Fine Gael want to use our experience and energy to help people through this difficult time and are taking further action on housing to ensure that people in their twenties and thirties have the chance to own their own home,” said Senator Mary Seery Kearney. Commenting on the launch, Fine Gael

Minister Peter Burke said that the scheme was a much-needed practical measure.

Minister Burke said: “The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant will work alongside other key Fine Gael policies such as Town Centre First and Our Rural Future, helping revitalise our communities while providing more people with the opportunity to own their own home.

“My officials are working with our Local Authorities to ensure they are equipped to administer the scheme, with 29 full time vacant homes officers now installed in the sector who are focused on bringing our vacant stock back into productive use.

“The scheme also promotes sustainability as we know the most efficient home is the one that is already built, limiting emissions from construction, while improving the look of our rural countryside, villages, towns and now cities,” concluded Minister Burke.

NOVENAS FOR LAURA LYNN

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

G.L

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

F.R

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

L.R

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. With grateful thanks to Our Lady for favours received. And thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours received.

J.R

If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order or cheque (Minimum of €10 per prayer) made out to Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to:

NEWSGROUP, Unit 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24.

If you require any further information please call 01 45 19 000 or email: info@newsgroup.ie.