Rathcoole Saggart News 09.01.23

TD for Dublin South West Seán

Crowe has said that he is astounded to see the waiting list in the Tallaght driving test centre pass 14,000.

Teachta Crowe said that this was clear evidence that an additional testing centre was needed in south Dublin as the waiting list has grown by 4,000 people in as many months. Figures released to Teachta Crowe by the RSA show that there were 14,054 people waiting on a driving test in Tallaght at the end of November 2022.

Teachta Crowe said “It is astonishing to see the waiting list at the Tallaght driving test

centre pass 14,000. It has grown by 4,000 in as many months. “This is proof positive that we need an additional driving test centre in south Dublin.

We have almost twice as many people waiting in Tallaght as the next highest centre. Dún Laoghaire/Deansgrange continues to take third place in the highest waiting lists with over 7,000 waiting.

“I have raised this issue in the Dáil and got the same old story that the Government was aware of the unacceptably high waiting list and were putting temporary measures in place. “Clearly, this has not worked since one thousand people have been added to the

lists every month for the past four months. “There are 14,000 people in Tallaght singing ‘All I want for Christmas is a driving test’.

“Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan does not have any answers for those waiting on a driving test. This is a situation that he has allowed to get completely out of control.

“We need a new driving test centre in south Dublin to take the pressure off of Tallaght and Dún Laoghaire/Deansgrange so that we can get to work at clearing the backlog and give people a chance to get their licence so that they can access employment, education, childcare or any of the other essential parts of life.”

CPL GROUP DONATE €10,000 TO PIETA

Servisource part of CPL Group were proud to donate €10,000 to Mental Health Charity Pieta. Pictured are Declan Murphy, Aileen McCann and Lisa Harbour.

MAYOR’S RECEPTION TO CELEBRATE SHAMROCK ROVER’S THREE IN ROW SSE AIRTRICITY LEAGUE SUCCESS

South Dublin County Council’s Mayor, Cllr Emma Murphy held a civic reception for Shamrock Rovers in County Hall on recently to acknowledge Shamrock Rovers three in a row SSE Airtricity League success.

At the event The Mayor presented three stunning photos of Shamrock Rovers lifting the Airtricity Cup in 2020, 2021 and 2022 to Ciaran Medlar, Chairman of Shamrock Rovers and Stephen Bradley, Manager of Shamrock Rovers.

Player of the Year awards for the senior and junior teams

were also presented to Rory Gaffney and Andy Lyons respectively and collected by team Captain Ronan Finn. The event was attended by South Dublin Councillors, the Shamrock Rover’s team and management as well as match day volunteers.

There were many words of admiration and encouragement for the team, the club and Tallaght Stadium from the speakers on the night; Ciaran Medlar - Chairman of Shamrock Rovers, Stephen BradleyManager of Shamrock Rovers, Danny Mc Loughlin - Chief Executive of South Dublin

County Council, Mayor of South Dublin Cllr Emma Murphy and local Cllr. and Rovers superfan Cllr Charlie O’Connor.

The Mayor said “South Dublin

County Council wish to acknowledge and celebrate Shamrock Rovers success; they are an inspiration to our community. They have shown commitment, skill and

passion for the game and for their team.

Winning the Airtricity once is a huge success but to win three in a row shows the hard work and dedication

this team is made of. We are extremely proud of our relationship with Shamrock Rovers and Tallaght Stadium management and hope that this relationship will continue to thrive.”

NURSING & DAYCARE HOMES RECEIVE AGE & OPPORTUNITY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GRANTS

Kiltipper Woods Care Centre and Trustus Senior Care, Tallaght are among recent awardees. The Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme, a combined initiative with Sport Ireland, has distributed €66,010 to 94 nursing homes and day centres nationwide.

The scheme was launched in September 2022 and is open to all nursing homes and day care settings who aim to increase levels and frequency of participation in physical activity, of those in care. The grant also supports the work of CarePALs. These are staff and volunteers from care settings who have undertaken the Age & Opportunity Active CarePALs course, which empowers them to lead suitable physical activity sessions with those who live or visit their setting

Minister of State for Sport and the Gaeltacht Jack Chambers said “The longrunning Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme

has proven an excellent resource in enabling older people to become more physically active. The grants announced today recognise the importance of physical activity for those who live in and use nursing homes and day centres. Approximately 13,000 people will benefit from these grants. “I want to thank Age & Opportunity for their ongoing work in providing opportunities for older people in nursing homes and care centres and I wish them continued success in their valuable work with communities across Ireland”.

Speaking about the grant, Dr. Una May, Chief Executive of Sport Ireland, welcomed Age & Opportunity Active programme’s focus this time on nursing homes and care centres. “We are delighted to award funding to the Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme. Given the circumstances that people who live in nursing homes have found themselves in these last couple of years due to COVID-19, keeping

physically active or returning to activity is more important than ever. The grant acts as a valuable resource in getting more older people more active and we are delighted to share the good news of these grants today.”

Karen Horgan, CEO of Age & Opportunity said today’s grant funding is helping create an Ireland where more older people can be more active and more connected. The allocation of these grants ensures that the benefits of physical activity in care settings is promoted and recognised, and allows us to support care settings in developing meaningful activities that will have a valuable impact on both the physical and mental health of the residents and clients.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Sport Ireland. Age & Opportunity works to ensure equality of participation for all older people, irrespective of background, culture, identity, setting or

location.” Tadhg Daly, CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland welcomed the initiative, saying “Almost 100 nursing homes and day centres within Irish communities that support the day-to-day living needs of thousands of older people will benefit from the Active National Grant Scheme this year. Physical activity fulfils an integral role in supporting, maintaining and improving the health and wellbeing of nursing home residents, whilst also promoting fun, camaraderie and happiness. We are delighted to support this initiative, which will bring great benefits to nursing home residents.”

Sarah O’Brien of HSE Health & Wellbeing, Healthy Eating Active Living Programme also welcomed the grant scheme saying “The CarePALs initiative is a really valuable support to staff in our day and residential services for older people. Building their skills and capacity to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults in our care by increasing their opportunity to participate in physical activity. All the evidence shows that when people, whatever their age or ability, are active and moving it improves mood, sleep and physical health. This grant scheme is a further invaluable support from Age & Opportunity and Sport Ireland to improving activity opportunities for all older adults.”

This grant is part of the Active National Grant

Scheme announced in May 2022 when an initial €514,120 was allocated to nearly 1,000 groups and organisations around Ireland promoting sport and physical activity for older people. This brings the total Active National Grant Scheme

awarded this year by Age & Opportunity to €580,130. The Grant Scheme is part of Age & Opportunity’s Active programme, funded by Sport Ireland, and delivered nationwide with the support of Local Sports Partnerships and the HSE.

SOCIAL HOUSING INCOME THRESHOLD INCREASE

Cllr Francis Timmons recently commented on the social housing income threshold increase ‘’I am somewhat encouraged that Social housing income eligibility thresholds in all Local Authorities have been increased by €5,000, and while I welcome this as a positive step I don’t believe it goes far enough to address the housing needs of many, I would encourage those on low income to relook at their eligibility to go on the housing list and apply if they qualify. It will give a better picture of how many homes are needed. I believe the threshold will need to be looked at again’’

Cllr Timmons said ‘’The state will need to and must accelerate the building of Council Homes within each council, I have been critical at the slow progress that has been made to provide social housing in South Dublin, I believe the targets set are way to low given we have thousands on the SDCC list alone’’. Cllr Timmons continued ‘’The Housing crisis is affecting every fabric of our society, employment, mental health and wellbeing, services, recruitment of teachers, Guards etc just being a few of the main issues affected, I would welcome a referendum on the right to a home but I would add free from abuse and neglect, a home should be where a child feels safe not a hotel room, not a direct provision centre and not overcrowding, many are feeling a deep sense of anger and despair I plead with those in office and the opposition to work together.”

Cllr Timmons concluded ‘’The housing issues need a huge rethink and I suggest that why not get all parties and none around a table and come up with a plan that realistically provides housing for all, politicians on all sides need to stop using the housing crisis as a political football its way to important of an issue to be used for political gain’’

This month, Acquired Brain Injury Ireland invites you to make a New Year’s Resolution that will make a life-changing difference to

STEPS FOR BRAIN INJURY SURVIVORS THIS JANUARY

thousands of individuals and families across the country.

As part of its annual Step Up for Brain Injury campaign, the organisation is seeking

participants to walk 150,000 steps between January 1st and 31st, to raise vital funds for those impacted by acquired brain injury.

Football legend Paul McGrath will take on the challenge and encourages others to ‘Step Up’ in solidarity with brain injury survivors “19,000 people in Ireland acquire a brain injury every year – people of all ages whose lives are turned upside down overnight and who need the right support, at the right time to get things back on track. ‘Stepping Up for Brain Injury’ is a chance to get out and get active in the new year, but more importantly it’s a chance to make a real difference to the future of survivors and their families.

This is the third year I’ve ‘Stepped Up’ for Acquired Brain Injury Ireland and I want 2023 to be the most successful yet. So, get involved, register to take part, and join me on the journey to 150,000 steps in January.” Paul will be

sharing his journey across social media throughout the month and invites all participants to do the same. His video message to those interested in taking part can be viewed on Acquired Brain Injury Ireland’s YouTube channel. Registration for the third annual Step Up for Brain Injury campaign is open now. Participation is free – all that’s required is a simple sign-up via Facebook or JustGiving. All those registered will receive a free Acquired Brain Injury Ireland neck buff, and those who raise €150 or more will receive a commemorative ‘Step Up’ medal. Details about how to get involved can be found online at www. abiireland.ie

An estimated 120,000 people in Ireland are living with a disability as the result of an acquired brain injury. Every step taken as part of the ‘Step Up’ challenge and every euro raised will benefit those impacted, as well as their families and carers. Acquired Brain Injury Ireland

injury to live their fullest and most independent life, with confidence. This is made possible by vital donations, including through campaigns like ‘Step Up for Brain Injury’.

THE RAMS IN RHYTHM

The months of November and December were a very special time for The RAMS in Rhythm, who were out singing each weekend, entertaining singing and fundraising for their four charities.

The RAMS nominated charities are Down syndrome Kildare, SVP Local 4 District, Our Lady’s Hospice and Capuchin Day Centre Dublin. The RAMS raised €8500, which was divided between their four charities. On 25th November they sang in the Garden Centre Johnstown for Down Syndrome Kildare. On the 2nd December they sang in the Square Tallaght to the delight all the shoppers, boppers, patrons and the staff. The 3rd December they sang in the Mill centre Clondalkin, where line dancing was a favourite with some shoppers. And finally on the 10th December they sang at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, and the overwhelming

response from the shoppers was ecstatic. It was wonderful to see all ages out dancing in the aisles. What a fantastic Christmas atmosphere there was, in the Liffey Valley Centre. To the joy of young children who so enjoyed “Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer” and brought real smiles to their faces. Also Santa Clause is coming to Town.

Their new release CD was a real treat to many of the shoppers, who were so generous in the donations and the purchase on the cd’s. The donations from to CD’s were donated to the four charities before Christmas. The RAMS in Rhythm would also like to acknowledge the great support and funding they receive from South Dublin County Council. And thanks to all the centres who made the group so welcome with assistance, hospitality and donations.

LOCAL LADY LORRAINE IS LOVING LIFE AND LEAVING HER WEIGHT BEHIND

I joined Pams slimming world group in the Maldron Hotel in April 2022 weighing in just over 19 stone. It wasn’t my first time to join a group, I would join , stay a few weeks , have a bad week and give up!But this time it was different. I was at my heaviest after losing

my partner and dealing with covid & lockdown. I was struggling with everyday things like dressing myself, tying my shoe laces and walking. Something really needed to change, as I have an amazing family and I needed to look after myself so that I could be the mother they deserved.

I seen an add for Pams group in the Maldron Hotel ,so I rang her and told her my story, she was so understanding, and made me feel at ease so quickly that I went along the following day. I was so nervous and shocked to see what I weighed, but Pam is an amazing consultant encouraged me that I could do this!!!

I was pleasently surprised at my first week to see I had lost 7.5 lbs! The weeks went by and the lbs fell off, after only 35 weeks I’m

down over 5 stone, i have won slimmer of the week, slimmer of the month, and I was awarded Miss Slinky 2022 for our group and im delighted to have gone from a size 24 to 16, clothes shopping is now something I look forward to.

I have 3 more stone to lose and hope to achieve it this year, losing weight is not a chore with slimming world, it simply teaches you how to eat healthy, the plan allows you to have so much free food that fills you and syns so if you fancy some treats that’s allowed too, so I never ever felt deprived.

I would encourage anyone who needs to lose weight or learn to eat healthy to join. Never give up, if you have a bad day or week don’t be afraid of the scales, just face it and get straight back on plan. Pams

slimming world group has changed my life, I finally feel like me, I look forward to seeing the members every week who support and encourage each other and have now become my friends , the laughs are just second to none. My family is much healthier, happier and they love the meals I cook. My life is finally looking up and the numbers are finally going down.

I’m so excited to see what 2023 brings, it’s the best decision I ever made walking through those doors, not only has it changed my life, but it has made me feel younger, fitter and I can’t wait to enjoy all the family outing I used to put off.

You can join Pam in the Maldron Hotel Tallaght, Dublin 24 Monday’s at 3:30, 5:00 & 6:30 pm or Tuesday’s at 9:30am.

St Annes GAA Club, Bohernabreena

Tuesday at 9.30am, 11am, 5.00pm & 6.30pm

Contact Miriam 087 970 3016

Maldron Hotel, Tallaght

Monday at 3:30pm 5:00pm & 6:30pm Tuesday morning at 9:30 am.

Contact Pamela 086 123 1774

Maldron Hotel, Tallaght Friday at 9.30 am & 11.00 am

Contact Janette 085 2566417

Plaza Hotel, Tallaght Thursday at 9.30am & 11am

Contact Pauline 085 7704751

Sacred Heart Parish Centre, Clondalkin

Wednesday at 9.30am & 11am

Contact martine 089 4482127

St Roanans Community Centre, Tuesday at 5.30pm Contact Sharon 083 1514777

Canon Despard Centre, Lucan Saturday at 8.00am & 9.30am

Contact Gill 085 2734867

Plaza Hotel, Tallaght Saturday at 7:30am, 9:00am, & 10:30am

Contact Christine 086 0885142

Lorraine before

Lorraine after

euros per year with a substantial reduction in childcare fees, which has kicked in this month as Budget measures

take effect, a local TD has said. Deputy Emer Higgins said many parents have received notifications from local creches outlining their revised fees from

today, which is extremely positive news to get. Deputy Higgins said: “Fine Gael is determined to put more money back in people’s pockets with a focus on cutting childcare costs and helping childcare providers and workers. Childcare fees will drop by 25%, with an average €1,200 reduction in annual childcare costs for each child. I know of one parent who is set to save €400 per month on fees for his two children who are in creche full time.

“Government is doing this by almost trebling the subsidies provided through the National Childcare Scheme. The overall number of childcare places will be increased with an extra €59 million invested in our childcare providers. For parents in Dublin on the minimum subsidy this will mean up to €3,276 off their annual bill per child. With up to €1,170 currently available per annum, this represents up to an additional €2,106

off the annual cost of early learning and care and school aged childcare per child. Parents on the maximum subsidies, based on an income assessment and the age of the child, can already receive up to €11,934 off their annual fee,” explained Deputy Higgins.

“It will also mean that any family who is not already at the maximum hourly subsidy will see an increase in their subsidy. For those who have an award less than the maximum subsidy, the amount of the increase will taper down as they approach the maximum hourly subsidy,” continued Deputy Higgins. “Parents can be reassured the national childcare subsidy increases won’t be absorbed into fee increases, with a fee freeze on 2021 rates in place in over 90% childminding facilities which have signed up to the new core funding stream. A subsidy calculator is available at www.ncs.gov. ie, which will be updated

so parents can check new subsidy rates.

“Core funding began in September and has given rise to increased capacity. The geographical breakdown across the country indicates expansion in urban and commuter areas where there has been significant pressure on places. Kildare, Wicklow, Meath as well as the four Dublin local authority areas,

Galway, Cork City, Waterford, and Limerick which are all showing increases in capacity above national average figures. “We have a shortage of creche places in areas including Newcastle and investment in the early years will help us attract more childcare providers to our area and increase both availability and affordability,” concluded Deputy Higgins.

O’CONNOR WELCOMES YOUTH DIVERSION GRANTS

Tallaght Councillor, Charlie O’Connor, has welcomed the announcement by his Party colleague James Browne TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Youth Justice, of once off funding for 3 Youth Diversion projects in Tallaght. The Tallaght projects concerned are JAY Project Jobstown - €838.00, KEY Project Killinarden - €9970.00 and KEY Project Fettercairn - €1780.00 The services will be provided by Foroige. Charlie O’Connor accompanied Minister Browne when he visited the Diversion Projects in Tallaght and has been told by the Minister that the projects concerned will be contacted by the Funds Administration Unit in the Department of Justice to ensure early payment. Charlie O’ Connor wishes the Tallaght projects well.

CONSULTANT APPOINTED TO DEVELOP NEW COUNTY TOURISM STRATEGY

South Dublin County Council has engaged tourism development consultancy firm KPMG Future Analytics to develop a new tourism strategy for the County. The strategy will develop a vision for the tourism offering in the County over the next five years. It is expected that the new County Tourism Strategy will guide and stimulate tourism development and investment which will maximise national and international stays in our County offering an economic return.

KMPG Future Analytics have also been tasked with producing a roadmap to contain a series of practical, actionable thematic recommendations to help the tourism and hospitality sector in South Dublin to attract more visitors to the County and benefit its residents, visitors and the natural environment.

KPMG Future Analytics will be supported by a leading international place making and marketing agency TOPOSOPHY and environmental consultancy CAAS. Welcoming the

appointment, Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr. Emma Murphy said “KPMG Future Analytics will work with the Council, and other tourism stakeholders in the development of an evidencebased Tourism Strategy and Implementation plan for the County. They will review the previous tourism strategy as well as the existing tourism related products and visitor experiences in the area to help develop realistic and practical recommendations to stimulate tourism development and investment in the local economy over the next five years. South Dublin County Council continues to work to identify the natural and cultural assets within the County in order to establish and sustain a vibrant tourism sector, and this piece of work will frame how we progress the visitor economy in our County. It’s just another example of the investment South Dublin County Council is making in the tourism sector in the County”.

KPMG Future Analytics is a planning, economics and

research consultancy who specialise in the provision of data-driven advice to public and private sector clients. Their data-driven approach to economics, regeneration and planning enables better decisions and outcomes.

KPMG Future Analytics will bring that knowledge and skill to bear on South Dublin to capitalise on opportunity, become increasingly resilient, benefit from higher yield visitors, and to identify clear action areas that focus on themes of high potential and compelling experiences.

Commenting on the engagement and the firm’s task ahead, Associate Director at KPMG Future Analytics James Chilton said. “We in KPMG-FA are delighted to have been appointed, in partnership with TOPOSOPHY, to prepare a new evidence based tourism strategy and implementation plan for South Dublin County. We understand that a key objective of the tourism strategy is to unlock the economic growth potential of South Dublin by developing existing and new experiences that will

motivate potential tourists to visit and stay longer and spend more. KPMG-FA and TOPOSOPHY have a strong understanding of the tourism sector having carried out several market analyses, product developments, and strategic development plans for destinations seeking to maximise their tourism potential. We look forward to engaging with SDCC, tourism bodies, local businesses and the local community over the coming months.”

This engagement is the latest in a series of recent announcements with regard to developing the visitor

economy in South Dublin County. This strategy will underpin the Council’s current investment in other visitor related infrastructure projects underway across the county such as the delivery of the Dodder and Grand Canal Greenways, a new heritage centre in Tallaght, the 12th Lock masterplan, Corkagh Park enhancements, the Canal Loop project, the development of a visitor and interpretive centre in the Dublin mountains, as well as the completion of Tallaght Stadium bringing it to 10,000-seater capacity, a new public transport interchange, and major

public realm enhancement in Lucan to facilitate the village’s Destination Towns designation. These projects, together with the now completed Round Tower Visitor Centre in Clondalkin represent a structured investment in enhancing the vibrancy and attraction of South Dublin County.

The objective of the new strategy is to build on these projects, identify new opportunities for the County, and ensure tourism development contributes to making South Dublin a better place for the community and for visitors.

Pic credit: Paul Tierney

FALSE PROMISES OVER CAMHS BEDS REOPENING

Mark Ward TD has expressed his disappointment with government over failure to reopen CAMHS bed in Linn Dara. Teachta Ward was speaking following a response to a parliamentary question which stated that it is not possible to give a reopening date for these beds. The Dublin Mid-West TD said “I am really disappointed with the ongoing failure to reopen 11 CAMHS beds at Linn Dara. “These crucial inpatient beds were closed in May, with CAMHS services already oversubscribed.

“The response that I received from a parliamentary question in relation to a reopening date for these

inpatient beds stated that it was not possible to give this date and cited recruitment issues as the cause for the delay. “I had assurances last year from the then Taoiseach and the Minister for Mental Health that Linn Dara would be operating at full capacity again in September, but here we are in a new year with the same false promises by government. “This is simply not good enough during a children’s mental health emergency.

“Over 11,000 children are waiting on primary care psychology, with almost 4,000 children waiting over a year for an appointment. “CAMHS currently have 4000

children on waiting lists for appointments “Only 70% of CAMHS beds were operational as of August last year and children with mental illhealth are presenting to already strained emergency departments as a result. “I received a response to a parliamentary question that stated that 741 children with mental health issue attended emergency departments from January to November, last year. “This is only going to get worse, and capacity must be restored and increased to turn this around. “We cannot have more false promises from government. Children are suffering and this cannot be allowed to continue.”

SILVER BRIDGE CONSERVATION WORKS

David Gardiner, Workers’ Party representative for Palmerstown-Fonthill, has welcomed the announcement that conservation works on the Silver Bridge in Palmerstown are set to begin in the coming weeks.

Gardiner said “Conservation is crucial to any potential future restoration works, so this is certainly a development to be welcomed.” “Coupled with a recent commitment from South Dublin County Council to acquire land on the southside of the bridge, something which the Workers’ Party called for last year, there is real potential to increase

accessibility to the Liffey Valley via the bridge.”

“Access to a rebuilt bridge from the southside should come through Waterstown Park, ideally linking it in with a Liffey Valley greenway that could stretch from Islandbridge to north Kildare.” “The Workers’ Party believes that the Liffey Valley should be a major recreational resource that local people and visitors alike can access with ease. A rebuilt Silver Bridge and a Liffey Valley greenway would help in making that a reality.”

THE TEACHER THAT CHANGED MY WORLD - NOMINATIONS

CLOSING FOR TEACHERS INSPIRE ON JANUARY 20TH

Teachers Inspire 2022, organised and run by Dublin City University, is calling for nominations of inspiring teachers in Ireland and stories about the positive impact a teacher has made in their lives. The initiative, which celebrates all teachers, highlights how, in and out of the classroom,

they can inspire imagination, creativity, confidence and courage.

Anyone can nominate a teacher who has made a difference in their lives by going to teachersinspire.ie and clicking on Share Your Story. Nominations close 20th January 2023. These

SPRINGBOARD+ - A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION WORTH KEEPING

January is a month of new starts. Throughout the country people are setting out to lose weight, get fit, and cut down on excess. But perhaps the best way to begin the New Year is by developing a new skill set for your future. At Griffith College they have a range of Springboard plus programmes starting in February and covering subjects in Pensions Management, Engineering and Digital Sales.

Springboard+ is a Government Initiative that provides free or 90% funded higher education. If unemployed, courses are completely free, and if employed, the applicant pays 10% of the course fees. Springboard+ courses are perfect for people who want to upskill, reskill or would like to get back into the workforce, but need certain qualifications or academic achievements first. The programmes that are supported under the Springboard+ initiative are industryled. You can find out more about the programmes at Griffith.ie and apply directly on Springboardcourses.ie

stories will be curated and shared, with the four most inspiring being selected and celebrated at an event in DCU in February 2023.

Teachers Inspire also features acclaimed author Louise O’Neill as curator and host of the Teachers Inspire Podcast, where she meets inspirational teachers and those whose lives they’ve touched to talk about their personal stories. She also covers related topics including early childhood education, inclusion, mental health and wellbeing, teaching gifted children and STEM education. The first episode of the new series features Louise’s own inspirational teacher, Jo Keane, who taught English and set her on her path to becoming an author. She also speaks to her sister Michelle, a primary school teacher in Clonakilty, and finds out why she wanted to become a teacher.

Teachers Inspire is an Irelandwide initiative that seeks to

celebrate teachers and to recognise the transformative role they play in our lives and in our communities. It is a testament to the quality of Irish teachers and educators and their extraordinary contribution to the lives of children, young people and our wider society. Their positive impact on the lives of our children and young people cannot be overestimated. They are at the very heart of communities across the country.

Speaking about Teachers Inspire, Louise O’Neill said “It’s such an honour to be a part of the Teachers Inspire initiative once again. I’m especially excited as I have had fascinating conversations about everything from Irish Sign Language and early education for children and the importance of prioritising mental health in the classroom.

I’ve learned so much through recording this podcast and I hope the listeners will

enjoy it as much as I have.” Teachers Inspire is organised and run by Dublin City University. It is generously supported by a philanthropic donation by Mr. Dermot Desmond. Mr. Desmond

also supports The Desmond Chair in Early Childhood Education at DCU’s Institute of Education. Now in its third year, Teachers Inspire celebrated teachers in 2019 and 2021.

THE DISCOVERY PROGRAMME

Minister for Electoral Reform and Heritage Malcolm Noonan T.D. and CEO of The Discovery Programme Dr John O’Keeffe look at archaeological artefacts and survey equipment at the official opening of The Discovery Programme’s offices at Merchant’s Quay.

GRAND ANNUAL CAREER DAY AT BIFE

While in many cases students, schools and parents see the CAO as the ‘be all and end all’ for those seeking thirdlevel 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 to pursue their dream career via a different route. BIFE will be showcasing the large variety of courses at our Grand Annual Career Day on Friday 20th January from 10am – 3pm.”

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 programmes, both in Ireland and abroad.”

The huge range 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.

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.

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

• Fine Art - Art Practice

• Acting

• Dance

• TV & Film (Moving Image)

• Music Production

• Music Performance

• Graphic Design

• Fashion Design

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.”

This year, the College has launched a number of new courses:

• Soccer Coaching in collaboration with Liverpool

FC Level 5

• Occupational Therapy

Assistant Level 5

• Podcasting & Streaming Level 5

• Dog Obedience & Training

– Start Your Own Business Level 6

• Payroll & Office

• Administration Level 5

• Hospitality & Business Management Level 6

• Dental Nursing Level 5

• Optician Assistant Level 5

• English Language and

•IT Skills for International

•Students Level 5

• English Language and Business for International Students Level 5

Work Experience is a vital part of the BIFE courses and now all students in the College have the opportunity to complete a 3-week or a 3-month work placement abroad in countries such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, Finland, Malta or Czechia under the Erasmus+ Programme which is sponsored by the European Union.

This is a terrific opportunity for our students, not only to gain valuable work experience in a European country, but also to experience a different

culture and broaden their horizons.

Bray Institute will be holding its Grand Annual Career Day again this year on Friday 20th January from 10am to 3pm. Potential students, parents, and career guidance teachers will have the

opportunity to speak to the staff and students who, with their educational knowledge and specialist industry experience, can guide you in the right direction. Workshops, demonstrations, presentations and career lectures will run throughout the day and visitors can

speak to students and get their views on the courses.

Applications for September 2023 Courses are now open. Apply online at www.bife. ie or call the Institute any day during office hours on 01-2829668 for further information.

Ireland’s Multi-Award Winning Transport Training Company

ON-LINE, WEEKEND & FULL-TIME COURSES STARTING

On-Line - Mon. 6th March 7-10.30pm

Cork (Silver Springs Hotel) - Sat 4th March

Limerick (Maldron Hotel) - Sat. 11th March

Dublin (Green Isle Hotel) - Sat. 25th March

Dublin F/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Wed. 17th May

Louise Fortune (Deputy Principal), Gabriel Allen (Deputy Principal), Ray Tedders (Principal), Erika Doyle (Chair of BMD), Tom Fortune (Chair of BIFE BOM), Ross Lee (Deputy Principal) with Minister Simon Harris who recently announced major developments at BIFE as the College has been chosen for a flagship “FET College of the Future”.

DIANA MAKES THE IMPOSSIBLE POSSIBLE THANKS TO RESPECTED ACCOUNTING PROGRAMME

A finance professional with a Dublin-based tax advisory company made ‘the impossible possible’ and enhanced her career through an accounting qualification open to school leavers and mature learners.

Moldovan native Diana Rosior, 33, had English as her fourth language when she decided to upskill from processing data to become an accounting technician through the Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI) Diploma. The mother of two young children used the institute’s online option because regular college hours did not suit her. Now, Diana plans on continuing her studies to becoming a fully qualified accountant.

Thanks to the ATI programme, Diana has gained promotion from her employers, Dublin tax advisors, E-Koncept on Portland Street North, and uses her newly learned skills on a daily basis.Diana, who settled in Ireland in 2017, got a job collecting and entering data with E-Koncept the following year. “Over time, I knew I wanted something more, but also that I required an Irish accounting qualification,” said Diana.

“With English as my fourth language, after Romanian, Russian and Italian, and two small daughters to look

after, it looked like I was not going to get it. “But my managers recommended the ATI Diploma and I enrolled for the online course in 2020.

“I had thought that a fulltime job was an impossibility for me but resolved to make the impossible possible.

“I very much enjoyed the course. It has allowed me take up a new position at work, applying what I have studied. It was exactly what I needed.

“The support from tutors and my employer was excellent. The programme format is well organised, easy to follow and makes learning enjoyable. “I chose the online option because normal college hours did not suit me. Flexibility was essential. I could learn and study anywhere, 24 hours-a-day. “And passing the exams has given me confidence and experience.

I would recommend ATI to anyone who wants a career in accounting. “The knowledge gained can be used everywhere. Now I plan on studying with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants to become a fully qualified accountant.”

The Accounting Technicians Ireland Diploma is recognised as the fastest pathway to a fulfilling and rewarding professional accounting

career. Accounting Technicians Ireland provides a nationally and internationally recognised accounting qualification, and graduates are employed in industry, commerce, private practice and the public sector. The highly regarded professional qualification can be obtained in as little as two years. Accounting Technicians Ireland Diploma courses are open to school and college leavers, mature students and people working in business, industry or small practice but who, as yet, have no formal training.

The qualification opens a world of employment opportunities to graduates across a broad range of accounting and finance roles and enables students further progress to senior financial management posts. Holders of the Diploma are highly regarded qualified professionals working at all levels of finance throughout the private and public sector, industry and commerce and in accountancy practices.

“There is continuing strong demand for accounting and financial skills in industry, practice and the public sector, with many employers supporting their staff by meeting programme fees,” says Gillian Doherty, Chief Operations Officer at Accounting Technicians Ireland. “We work closely with employers to ensure the Diploma qualification prepares our graduates to succeed in the workplace and meet the future requirements of the profession. “Through our flexible online programme, and partnership with colleges and training providers across the island, students gain a professional qualification whilst working remotely, where required, and living in their local area. “Graduates go on to join a supportive members’ network of Accounting Technician professionals who occupy the full spectrum of accountancy and finance roles. “Through Membership of ATI, our graduates benefit from regular training and career support, ensuring the continued relevance of the Accounting Technician qualification to the wider professional environment.”

details of how to sign-up for the Diploma.

TU DUBLIN WELCOMES FUNDING ANNOUNCEMENT FOR NEW HIGHER EDUCATION FACILITIES IN TALLAGHT

Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) was recently delighted to welcome an announcement by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris T.D., that Bundle One of the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) Programme has reached financial close. Bundle One of the Programme, which includes six projects at higher education institutions across Ireland, will deliver two state-of-the-art educational facilities on the University’s Blanchardstown and Tallaght campuses.

This announcement by Minister Harris has given the green light to progress the building of a c.5,200 m2 multi-disciplinary building in Tallaght for teaching and research in hospitality, culinary arts, engineering and apprenticeship activities. It will deliver leading-edge lecture theatres, a training restaurant, design studios, and research facilities.

The financial close of this project will also provide a c.4,060m2 teaching facility in Blanchardstown that will support the future needs of learners in the West Dublin region. With universal design at its heart, the modern educational facility is planned to include open flexible spaces for active learning and will enable TU Dublin to meet the needs for worker upskilling in the region.

Both projects will facilitate collaboration between students, and staff, with industry, research and community partners in modern facilities that promote research and student learning, while directly addressing industry skills needs in the South and West Dublin regions. The contract has been awarded to the Enbarr Partnership,

comprising Macquarie Capital Group Ltd. (equity provider), JJ Rhatigan & Company (construction contractor) and Sodexo Ireland Limited (facilities management).

Welcoming the announcement, the President of Technological University Dublin, Professor David FitzPatrick, said, “With this recent financial close of the first bundle in the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme, we have reached yet another significant milestone in 2022 in the development of TU Dublin. The announcement by Minister Harris paves the way for the construction of two critical elements of Higher Education infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Region on the University’s Tallaght and Blanchardstown campuses. These new developments will enhance the learning and working environment where our University community can explore, develop, expand their abilities, and reach their full potential. In addition, in keeping with the University’s sustainability ethos and energy policy, the University will connect to a new district heating system using waste heat in Tallaght, while the new building in Blanchardstown will use air-source heat pumps.”

Continuing Professor FitzPatrick said, “TU Dublin has enjoyed a high level of collaboration and engagement with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, the National Development Finance Agency and the Higher Education Authority in bringing these projects to a financial close. We look forward to continuing to work with the Enbarr Partnership over the next two years during construction and onwards into the operational phase of the contract.”

STUDENTS IN DUBLIN REMINDED TO ENTER NATIONAL SPEECH WRITING COMPETITION

Will 2023 be the year for a second Dublin winner?

ActionAid Ireland is reminding students in Dublin aged 14 to 18 to enter the ActionTalks national speech writing competition. The top prize for the national winner is a €500 voucher. The competition, now in its ninth year, is an opportunity for young people to explore the root causes of local and global injustices and inequalities. This year’s themes focus on the climate emergency, unpaid care work and economic injustice.

ActionAid works with women and children, as they take the lead in claiming their human rights to build a more just world. ActionAid’s Women’s Rights programme, funded by Irish Aid, Department of Foreign Affairs, works to eliminate violence against women and girls. Irish Aid programmes are funded by Irish citizens and are part of Ireland’s important global role.

Karol Balfe, CEO of ActionAid Ireland said: “Young people are often inspirational voices for change on many issues and highlight the need for global solidarity and meaningful activism. We have had a fantastic response already to the 2023 ActionTalks competition. We hope for more entries from Dublin before the deadline of Friday 13th January – there has never been a more important time imagine new solutions for the many crises that we face.”

Entries to the competition can be submitted to ActionAid by email in written form and fifteen successful entrants will go forward to the regionals final, with six regional winners winning a €50 voucher each. At the national final in March, the six finalists will be asked to present their speech to a panel of esteemed judges. The national prize is a €500 voucher for the winner and a €100 voucher for their teacher.

ActionAid is hoping entrants will come up with innovative, well-researched, and creative speeches, using their own unique perspective.