Meath South East News, Edition 22

TAX CREDITS AND ONE-OFF PAYMENTS DEFINE BUDGET 2024 Budget 2024’s €14 billion budget package included a large swathe of one-off payments which are seen as positive to some, but a “missed opportunity” according to Sinn Fein politicians.

All households will receive three €150 energy payments between the end of this year and April 2024 in response to energy and gas prices which have only seen a slight decline.

Rent tax credits increased from €500 to €750 per year for renters in the private sector who are not in receipt of any other State housing support starting 1st January 2024. Credits can be doubled for married couples and civil partners, and parents can claim it if their student child lives in a ‘rent

a room’ or digs.

Students will get a onceoff reduction fee of €1,000 for ‘free fee students’ and on contribution fees for apprentices in higher education.

An increase in the Postgraduate Tuition fee contribution of €1,000 for student grant recipients will also apply. Minister Donohoe also addressed providing additional support including increases in the Maintenance Grant rates, restoration of those grants to eligible postgraduate students and improvements to the thresholds applying to maintenance and student contribution grants from September 2024.

A temporary tax relief for landlords was announced, including relief at a stan-

By Daniel Doyle, Eoin Ryan dard rate of 20% available from 2024-2027. The amount of the relief is calculated by disregarding income of €3,000 in 2024, €4,000 in 2025 and €5,000 in each of 2026 and 2027.

These provide tax relief of €600 in 2024, €800 in 2025 and €1,000 in each of 2026 and 2027. The relief is only

available for those registered with the Residential Tenancies Board and the properties must continue to be rented for four years.

Childcare costs will be re-

duced by a further 25 percent from September 2024 and a double child benefit payment of €280 will be

sent before Christmas.

20% fare reductions will continue until the end of 2024 and Young Adult Cards now cover 19-25 year olds. The fee waiver on school transport services is extended another year.

The minimum wage is due to increase from €11.30 to €12.70 with effect from 1 January 2024 in order to account for rising inflation and the current cost of living crisis. The Universal Social Charge (USC) entry threshold has also increased from €22,920 to €25,760 so those who benefit from minimum wage increase remain outside of these tax rates.

Parents Benefit, will be extended to nine weeks from August 2024 representing an increase of two weeks.

The Help to Buy Scheme has also been extended until 31st December 2025 and includes the purchase of new local authority homes under the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme, But does not apply to second-hand properties.

The HSE was allocated €22.5 billion which includes an increase to core current funding to address demographic and service pressures, and non-core resources for Covid-19 and Ukraine spending in the health sector. This allocation has been met with criticism and a recruitment freeze on some healthcare roles has been put in place.

Despite this, Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe said the allocation will not be revisited.

Cont’d page 2

2 Continued from page 1

This year’s budget has been highlighted by Sinn Féin TD for Meath West Johnny Guirke, as “a missed opportunity” to highlight the housing and health crisis. Meath County Council (MCC) have been granted a budget of €186m, an increase of €24m on last year, to be used across a large variety of areas.

The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC). welcomed Minister Mary Butlers announcement of a new central referral system. This new system will aim to tackle the problem of moving a patient from waiting list to waiting list when they are trying to access appropriate supports.

“The announcement of a triage service to help direct children and young people to appropriate services is hugely welcome and will go some way to alleviating waiting lists” says ISPCC Head of Policy and Public Affairs Fiona Jennings.

She did, however, go on to say that “mental health funding remains a long way off from the 10% target of overall health spending by 2025”.

“Budgets are about prioritising… this government is continuing to punish ordinary

people and families with no alternative”. Sinn Féin TD for Meath West Johnny Guirke said in response to the expected toll increase.

Budget 2024 has introduced an increase in disability and carers allowance by €12, raising the allowance to €232. CEO of Inclusion Ireland Derval McDonagh, highlighted that they have been campaigning for months for the disability allowance to match the poverty threshold of €291.50. She pointed out that there is a “considerable gap between the €350 Pandemic Unemployment Payment and the current rate of €232 for the disability allowance”.

She underlined that it “sends a clear signal that disabled people are not seen as equals to other Irish citizens,” and the budget “has delivered a disturbing blow to the very people who face a never-ending daily cycle of pleading for their rights to be met”.

90 additional residential places are to be created for people needing care, and who need to move into a home of their own. Ms McDonagh said “this is urgent and a necessary human rights imperative” but believes “we only see a sticking plaster today”.

BRICK WORLD TAKES ON JOHNSTOWN BRIDGE The Hamlet Hotel in Johnstown Bridge, County Kildare, hosted a Brick World Exhibition which is run by its founder Mark Pearson for the past five years. Brick World exhibitions are targeted at Lego lovers across the country with Mark as the sole builder of all the Lego sets and structures at the exhibitions. He started building his growing collection since he was sixteen years ago.

When his Lego collection began to grow Mark started to store it at a local community hall in Portarlington, his home town and it was from there that he decided to share his love of Lego. He puts a lot of effort into building the Lego sets including the Lego Millenium Falcon, from the Star Wars movies, which took twenty hours to complete. Some of the Lego exhibits are very fragile and breakable so some of them inevitably break. But he is more than willing to salvage what he can and rebuild it again.

Mark Pearson himself was present at the event to welcome visitors to his ex-

hibition and he the exhibits at

By Kate Hawkins was also eager their leisure to chat about with many parLego and answer any ents showing their children questions the visitors had places they had visited, for him. As well as running on the table of Lego globthe Brick World exhibitions al landmarks. A quiz was and building Lego Mark je also prepared and printed is also a Lego shop emout on individual sheets for ployee in Grafton Street the families to enjoy. Famwhere he gets to share his ilies walked around lookpassion for all things Lego ing at the exhibits multiple with customers. times to find the answers to the clues on their anThe exhibits were dividswer sheets. The winner ed into categories such of the quiz was announced as worldwide landmarks, on Brick World Facebook movies and tv shows with page and contacted the empty tables for visitors following day. and families to sit at. A small but busy store was There was also a Minifigset up at the door where ures in Disguise challenge Brick World staff were sellfor families to enjoy. A total ing Lego sets and handof seven minifigures were made Lego themed prodhidden throughout the exucts hibits. Each minifigure had . a piece of Lego with a letThere was an impressive ter printed on it attached to collection of Harry Potter it and when all the letters Lego. Harry Potter Lego were put together, they sets are one of Mark’s faspelled out the answer vourite Lego sets to build to the following question: and he had them displayed where is Lego from? The including Hedwig, HarMinifigures in Disguise ry Potter and Hermione poster was designed as a Granger, Diagon Alley and Wanted poster which addGringotts bank which Mark ed an extra element of excompleted shortly before citement to the challenge. the exhibition.

A few of the Lego exhibFamilies wandered around its were custom made by

Mark himself, some using Lego bricks and others using Lego Dots. He designed and built self-portraits from Lego Dots. He also made a large custom-built figure of President Michael D Higgins which took six months to design and build. He contacted President Michael D Higgins to inform him of the Lego figure he built of him and to invite him to the Brick World event.

Mark received a reply from President Michael D Higgins who unfortunately was unable to make it as he was out of the country at the time.

3

4

ATHBOY, CO MEATH TIRLÁN COUNTRY LIFE OFFICIALLY OPENED AFTER MAJOR REVAMP

Meath branch is among the first of 52 to benefit under €11 million plus investment programme

Hundreds of farmers and families from the local community turned out to celebrate the official opening of Tirlán CountryLife in Athboy, Co Meath. It’s the latest in the farmer-owned cooperative’s 52-strong branch network to benefit from an €11 million plus investment programme spanning stores in 12 counties. The Athboy store was shining bright following a significant store refurbishment.

Having expanded to include a garden centre, and a store extension of an additional 6,100 square foot; hundreds of new agricultural, horticultural, pet and household product lines are now on offer to customers in an appealing environment. Car parking at the site has also been increased, with two

new electric car charging points added.

Cutting the ribbon and officially opening the branch which serves Tirlán suppliers and the wider public in the Meath and Louth area, John Murphy Tirlán Chairperson, said the investment clearly demonstrates the cooperative’s promise to continue to invest in rural Ireland and improve vital services in the communities it serves.

“Meath is Tirlán’s sixth biggest supplier of milk, with €134 million of the €1.9 billion we paid to milk suppliers in our catchment area going to farm families in the county; which has huge benefits for the local economy.

“Improving the customer experience here and adding a state-of-the-art garden centre future proofs this branch for years to come. I want to pay tribute to board

members, past and present, among them Henry Corbally, Eamon McEnteggart and Denis O’Sullivan for their tireless work in this region.”

The Athboy investment is part of Tirlán’s plans to transform its branch network and achieve a completely new-look to meet the evolving needs of the towns, villages and rural communities we operate in Darren Kelly, Store Manager, said.

“We’ve been hugely grateful to the surrounding community for their support since we opened our new garden centre earlier this year.

I’m proud to lead the team here in the store to continue to ensure we can act as a heartbeat for the local community. We’re also delighted to have increased our staff numbers to 13 as a result of this increased investment.’

For Tirlán, as an Irish 100% farmer-owned Co-op, our

landmark retail channel investment programme is part of a range of measures to future-proof our agri, retail and garden centre services in rural communities across 12 counties, Senan Foley, Head of Retail at Tirlán said.

“This major investment clearly demonstrates our

promise to play a key role in supporting local jobs and rural economies. The needs of farmers, customers and the communities, of which we are part, of are evolving.

“Many rural communities have lost their post office or other vital services. In

many instances, these services are now incorporated into our branch network to ensure Tirlán delivers on its promise of creating a modern network of stores that meet current and future demands across all of our communities across 12 counties.”

5

JUST 886 OF 22,000 CONNECTIONS MADE IN MEATH’S NATIONAL BROADBAND PLAN ROLLOUT Sinn Féin TD for Meath East, Darren O’Rourke, says the latest update for Meath from National Broadband Ireland (NBI) will come as a major disappointment to people waiting to be connected to high-speed broadband in the county. The update provided to Deputy O’Rourke confirms that just 3,414 (15.5%) of the 22,000 premises included in the ‘intervention area’ have been passed and that, remarkably, just 886 connections (4%) have been made so far.

band Plan (NBP). We know that this is a hugely important project,” Darren O’Rourke said.

“However, the NBI’s update sets out that just 3,414 (15,5%) of the 22,000 premises in the plan have been passed (i.e. they are available for connection) to date.

We know that the target for

The report further outlines that a massive 49% of connections (10,275) will be made in the final two years of the plan - in late 2025 and 2026. Deputy O’Rourke says the fact that the plan is significantly back-loaded is hugely frustrating, particularly given the fact that existing targets are being missed.

the end of 2023 is 40% so the fact that we are in October and just 15.5% have been passed this is very concerning.

“The update provided to me

by NBI outlines the progress to date and projections for broadband rollout in the county for the remaining years of the National Broad-

“Even more concerning is the fact that just 886 customers have connected so far.

That’s 886 out of 22,000 and we’re almost 4 years into this contract. It is reasonable to

expect that some people will wait for their current broadband contracts to expire before switching to NBI’s high speed network but these are very low numbers so far.

“In terms of overall network delivery, there is always an element of ‘lag’ on projects such as this due to the nature of the works. It takes

time to survey and design before the actual building commences, but the extent of this lag and the resulting back-loading of connections in Meath is particularly disappointing.

“The rollout is still too slow and targets are still being missed. It’s not good enough.”

1319 PEOPLE ON NAVAN HOUSING LIST 1319 people are currently on Navan’s housing application list, almost half of which are one bed applicants waiting an average of 10 years and a three percent increase from last year.

bed housing units in construction to meet local demand and “The council will need to ramp up supply of one bed’s and age friend-

length of 6 years and 61 four bed applicants. Fennessy said over a hundred families benefitted from increased supply of three bed properties this year, but “going forward, I call

38% of the waiting list is made up of two bed applicants, 514 people, which is a two percent increase from last year. “There is a decent enough supply of two bed properties in the pipeline, but we will need a lot more than is being delivered to meet a growing demand for that type of accommodation.”

Mayor of Navan Eddie Fennessy called this “hugely concerning,” and said the “Increasing numbers of pensioners and older people on the one bed list are getting caught up in the housing crisis for lack of social housing or affordable accommodation.”

Fennessy said there is not nearly enough one

ly housing schemes or a homelessness crisis for pensioners is inevitable.”

There 105 three bed applicants with a waiting list

on the council to take a more targeted approach in their development of social housing projects.

FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR MEATH SCHOOLS Supported by Meta, STEAM Meath aims to ignite creativity and transform education in eleven primary schools and eight secondary schools across the county, which is being piloted as a three-year programme.

STEAM Meath is built around FIRST® LEGO® League, a global team robotics challenge. FIRST LEGO League has been running in Ireland since 2016. Engaging in FIRST LEGO League provides an opportunity for young people to discover robotics and take part in an innovation challenge to solve real-world problems.

Students at the Meath schools have a fun opportunity to discover the world of STEAM and develop key life skills including teamwork, innovation, collaboration, confidence and persistence along with design thinking and programming skills all through the use of a range of hands-on and engaging LEGO Education resources.

STEAM covers science, technology, engineering, the

arts and maths; activities intrinsic to the Irish curriculum and the Digital Strategy for Schools.

FIRST LEGO League is not just about young people building robots; it is about robots building people too, says Ross Maguire of CreativeHUT and Learnit, the company that coordinates delivery of the Irish programme.

gramme is funded by Meta continuing their positive impact on STEM learning for students throughout Meath.

Meta have been part of the community in County Meath since breaking ground on their Clonee Data Centre in

tion for the FIRST LEGO League national competition, teacher training and student workshops, and participation in a showcase or tournament. The teacher support and professional development opportunity em-

“Cooperation and competition unites teams and, by working together, the young people are taking their first steps to becoming tomorrow’s innovators, creators and problem solvers”.

A mix of nineteen schools across the municipal districts of Ashbourne, Kells, Navan, Ratoath, Trim and Laytown/Bettystown are part of STEAM Meath, embarking on a robotics voyage of discovery. They include small rural schools, larger urban schools, a Gaelscoil, and a diversity of boys, girls, and mixed schools.

The new STEAM Meath pro-

2016.

Participating schools get a fully-funded FIRST LEGO League support package which includes LEGO education resources, registra-

powers educators with the necessary tools, confidence, and knowledge to effectively integrate STEAM education into their classrooms.

Dr. Éadaoin McGovern, Di-

rector of the Navan Education Support Centre (NESC), stated: “It’s fantastic to see schools across Meath gain an opportunity to engage in such an innovative project. Navan Education Support Centre are proud to be a part of this initiative and are excited by the potential impact it will have in local schools.

This is an exciting schools project for the region and a unique opportunity to bring the STEAM curriculum to life for teachers and students.”

Speaking at the announcement today Cllr. Padraig Fitzsimons, Leas Cathaoirleach/ Deputy Mayor of Navan said; “I am delighted to see an education initiative that captivates the imagination and promotes interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving. By increasing STEAM awareness and enjoyment in schools, I have no doubt young people will be encouraged to consider STEAM subjects in higher education, thereby meeting the big demand for gradu-

ates in Ireland’s workforce.”

Throughout the three-year programme, a series of interactive and hands-on student workshops will inspire students and nurture their passion for STEAM subjects. They will encourage students to collaborate, innovate, and apply their knowledge in practical settings. Paying tribute to the immense generosity of Meta, Ross Maguire of CreativeHUT and Learnit also highlighted the very productive partnership with local education interests, including the schools involved, Navan Education Centre, and Oide, the professional development service for teachers.

“We have immense global corporations, like Meta, and a small local business, CreativeHUT and Learnit, partnering with our dedicated educators in Irish schools to create the next generation of Scientists, Innovators and Engineers & Problem Solvers, and that is a very exciting prospect for all involved.”

6

GP CLINIC RELOCATES TO HIGH STREET ASHBOURNE

Centric Health GP has moved to a new clinic to High Street Ashbourne while also welcoming a new female GP to the team.

The official opening took place with all the team gathered to celebrate their new location and modern

facilities better suited for Ashbourne’s growing population Their services include vaccinations, immunisations, medical/legal reports, ADHD diagnosis and online and in-person therapy.

The location was chosen

to make it more noticeable for members searching for their GP as patients used to have issues finding their clinic.

Moving to the end of High Street Ashbourne will hopefully be more noticeable to those who require medical

support.

“Centric Health is poised for an exciting transition as they move to a new state-ofthe-art facility in the coming weeks, a Centric Health Spokesperson said. “This move signifies their dedication to enhancing the pa-

tient experience, providing more accessible care, and embracing modern healthcare practices.”

High Street Ashbourne Management Company are delighted to welcome Ashbourne Clinic, Centric Health to their new prem-

ises on Declan Street. The clinic offers a wide range of services and are currently welcoming new patients.

The clinic is located in the heart of Ashbourne, we wish them all the best and a warm welcome to Ashbourne.

7

JAMESTOWN BOG WALK Jamestown Bog Walk

Just 8 kilometres from Navan, County Meath, the 4.3 kilometre Jamestown Bog Walk offers an ideal Autumn or Winter stroll. Embark in an adventure that brings you through the beauty of the season. The entire loop takes on average one hour to complete and accommodates activities like dog walking, running, walking and splashing in puddles. The mostly level gravel paths which were completed at the beginning of 2023 allows easy access for buggies and wheelchairs.

While dogs are welcome, it is important to note that they must be kept on leash at all times, especially since parts of the path are very closely located to the road. Parking space is limited and only available at the two entrances of the bog walk.

The JamestownBog Walking Trail is a precious gem among Ireland’s few raised bogs, and a valuable habitat for wildlife. Here, with a bit of luck and patience, you can encounter many creatures from frogs and hares, to some larger species like deer .The Jamestown bog is recognised by its dome shaped,discrete stacks of peat which commonly occupy former lakes or shallow dips in land.

If you have ever wondered about the process of turf production, this walk offers an excellent opportunity to learn and experience the process.

The beauty of land differs depending on which trail you decide to explore, with each trail keeping you captivated in the moment. Whether you are a nature’s enthusiast, a birdwatcher or simply someone looking to escape their

busy lifestyle, the Jamestown Bog Walk is a great place to connect back to our heritage and nature. The walk features a forest walk, a bogland trail, and a recreational area with seating and bike racks for those who would like a place to rest on their journey.

It was great to see an urban area encouraging a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation while still leaving the area dedicated solely to nature and the turf making process. As an added attraction, the walk begins with captivating murals created on recycled tractortires, depicting the diverse wildlife found on the grounds.

At the moment, the area is brushed with bright, autumnal colours, golden leaves covering the path. A healthy bog land is waterlogged at the surface, therefore when visiting the area, make sure to bring the appropriate gear as splashing in puddles is a definite must when visiting. It is a great opportunity for little ones to experience the elements and engage in some messy play. Have a look at our Kid’s Craft Page in the Newspaper for some ideas of what you can do with the leaves and plants you may collect on your walk.

The Jamestown Bog Walk is a captivating and interesting spot to visit. With a pair of wellies and a simple picnic, you can immerse yourself in the magic of the forest, covered in golden leaves and a soft blanket of moss.Witness the small creatures that call this place home, and take a moment to appreciate the serenity and beauty of the Irish bog land.

8

TRAVELLERS STILL TREATED AS SECOND CLASS CITIZENS IN IRELAND As Gaza is bombarded by Israeli missiles in response to Hamas terrorist raids on October 7, thousands in Ireland take to the streets in solidarity with Palestinians. Towns and cities both North and South of the Irish border planned. For years Ireland has shown its unanimous support for Palestine as we share a similar history of oppression from another State through religious segregation.

Even when their homes are not being bombed, they are treated as second class citizens in their own country, simply due to their race.

They are a community that Israelis will not accept by any means, a people they look down upon in every regard.

As we come out in support of those in Gaza and Israel’s open hostility to their people, we also tend to ignore how we treat another small community, the Irish travellers, as second class citizens.

Despite only having a pop-

ulation of approximately 31,000, less than one percent of Ireland, there is no other group that Irish people are more openly hostile to than travellers.

What most do not understand is the mental toll this racial discrimination puts on them as this is the primary root cause of suicide in the Irish Traveller community, according to a report commissioned by three Traveller action groups.

Over two- thirds of Travellers have lost a loved one to suicide, and almost 90% are worried about suicide in their community. Traveller suicide rates are six times higher compared to the rest of Ireland, 65% of suicides being under 30 years old Structural racism against Travellers is prevalent in housing, employment, education, healthcare and when engaging with Gardai, as reported by The Irish Times.

Senator Eileen Flynn, the first Traveller Senator appointed to the Oireachtas, has called it a “mental health crisis and it needs to be treated as a crisis.”

“We need to know how many Travellers are going through our mental health services and identify what support they need, for what we are seeing is sys-

tematic racism and hatred.”

“When I am getting my kids ready for school my heart sinks.

They are too young to know what is coming but sure enough it will hit them at some stage. I am hardened to it ... I can handle it because I am used to it, but my heart breaks for them every day. It sucks the spirit out of you, I go to bed drained and dreading

the next day.”

Even their physical health is well below the rest with common conditions such as metabolic syndrome, asthma, bronchitis and tuberculosis two to three times more prevalent in Travellers. Those aged over 65 years old also had higher rates of injury compared to the general population.

Despite all this, county councils are still reluctant to give them the support they need, especially in terms of housing. For example, Dublin City Council has built no new Traveller-specific accommodation since 2019, despite plans for 54 new homes under the Traveller Accommodation Programme 2019 to 2024.

It also failed to build any under the 2014 to 2018 programme as well, according to Bernard Joyce, director of the Irish Traveller Movement.

It has gotten to a point where the The UN Com-

mittee on the Rights of the Child are calling on Ireland to ensure Traveller children have full and equal access to adequate accommodation.

Even if this target is somehow reached, however, there are 185 Traveller families who were counted as needing accommodation in Dublin. This does not include households living in B&Bs, family hubs, or two or more families living in the same accommodation.

Nationally, the Irish Traveller movement estimates that 20% of homeless people across the country are Travellers.

None of these figures touch on the racial stereotypes of travellers many Irish grew up believing at one stage or another. We were raised to look down on them, and they were raised with us looking down on them.

As we voice our support for the people of Palestine, it is important to remember how we treat our own.

9

As Gaza is bombarded by Israeli missiles in response to Hamas terrorist raids on October 7, thousands in Ireland take to the streets in solidarity with Palestinians. Towns and cities both North and South of the Irish border planned. For years Ireland has shown its unanimous support for Palestine as we share a similar history of oppression from another State through religious segregation. Even when their homes are not being bombed, they are treated as second class citizens in their own country, simply due to their race.

They are a community that Israelis will not accept by any means, a people they look down upon in every regard.

As we come out in support of those in Gaza and Israel’s open hostility to their people, we also tend to ignore how we treat another small community, the Irish travellers, as second class citizens.

Despite only having a population of approximately 31,000, less than one percent of Ireland, there is no other group that Irish people are more openly hostile to than travellers.

Senator Eileen Flynn, the first Traveller Senator appointed to the Oireachtas, has called it a “mental health crisis and it needs to be treated as a crisis.”

Over two- thirds of Travellers have lost a loved one to suicide, and almost 90% are worried about suicide in their community. Traveller suicide rates are six times higher compared to the rest of Ireland, 65% of suicides being under 30 years old

“We need to know how many Travellers are going through our mental health services and identify what support they need, for what we are seeing is systematic racism and hatred.”

“When I am getting my kids ready for school my heart sinks. They are too young to know what is coming but sure enough it will hit them at some stage. I am hardened to it ... I can handle it because I am used to it, but my heart breaks for them every day. It sucks the spirit out of you, I go to bed drained and dreading the next day.”

Structural racism against Travellers is prevalent in housing, employment, education, healthcare and when engaging with Gardai, as reported by The Irish Times.

Even their physical health is well below the rest with common conditions such as metabolic syndrome, asthma, bronchitis and tuberculosis two to three times more prevalent in

What most do not understand is the mental toll this racial discrimination puts on them as this is the primary root cause of suicide in the Irish Traveller community, according to a report commissioned by three Traveller action groups.

Travellers. Those aged over 65 years old also had higher rates of injury compared to the general population.

Despite all this, county councils are still reluctant to give them the support they need, especially in terms of housing. For example, Dublin City Council has built no new Traveller-specific accommodation since 2019, despite plans for 54 new homes under the Traveller Accommodation Programme 2019 to 2024.

It also failed to build any under the 2014 to 2018 programme as well, according to Bernard Joyce, director of the Irish Traveller Movement.

It has gotten to a point where the The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child are calling on Ireland to ensure Traveller children have full and equal access to adequate accommodation.

Even if this target is somehow reached, however,

there are 185 Traveller families who were counted as needing accommodation in Dublin. This does not include households living in B&Bs, family hubs, or two or more families living in the same accommodation.

Nationally, the Irish Traveller movement estimates that 20% of homeless people across the country are Travellers.

None of these figures touch on the racial stereotypes of travellers many Irish grew up believing at one stage or another. We were raised to look down on them, and they were raised with us looking down on them.

As we voice our support for the people of Palestine, it is important to remember how we treat our own.

10

MEATH ATHLETICS IN FLYING FORM

By Cillian Sheeran

From The Autumn Open in Abbottstown to the Novice Championships, there was so much outstanding talent on display and relay races for the first time during The Autumn Open.

On Sunday October 15, athletes from Ratoath AC

kicked off the day for the county with their U13 Boys placing 3rd in the 4 X 500m relay. Louise Connolly, Finn Carrigan, Oliver Couch and James Lane were all part of this medalling team.

A huge well done to Rathoath’s Girl’s teams who also put in very brave performances. The U13 Girls placed 8th in their 4 X 500m and the U15 Girls team placed 4th in the 4 X 1000m.

Another bronze medal was

awarded to Dunboyne AC’s U15 Boys team after their 4 X 1000m relay race. The team consisted of Matthew Hyland, Tom Gormley, Harry Drake and George Comerford who are all coached by John O’Reilly.

One final result for Meath on the day came from Edel Gaffney of Trim Athletics Club, who has been selected to represent Ireland at the Mater Cross Country Championships this year and finished 3rd in the W35 categories.

Moving on to the Novice Championships, Trim Athletics Club continued their flying form as Seamus Anderson placed 2nd overall in the Senior Men’s race and led the Meath team to a silver medal.

OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE BOYNE TO LAKELANDS GREENWAY BETWEEN NOBBER AND KILMAINHAMWOOD Meath County Council is delighted to announce the official opening of the next section of the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway between Nobber and Kilmainhamwood! This opening provides a seam-

finishing just north of Kilmainhamwood.

Together with the previously opened section from Navan to Wilkinstown (7.7kms), this opening marks a milestone in Meath County Council’s work to develop what will be

At the National Indoor Arena on Wednesday October 18th both Shane and Tomas McGrath placed 2nd in their respective age groups across a tough 5 event day. This consisted of, high jump, 60m hurdles, 200m, and the shot put. A huge congratulations to the lads.

Hopefully we see more phenomenal running from all of our athletes across the county as the season progresses.

less 8.7km walking and cycle path commencing in Castletown and

30kms of walking and cycle routes between Navan and Kingscourt

passing on or close to six villages and connecting the towns of Navan and Kingscourt.

As part of the announcement, Meath County Council has released the map of Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway, which clearly illustrates the main sections that are open to the public to use immediately, in addition to providing a guide to parking and the distances between each section enabling users to plan their visit.

It is anticipated that this new Greenway will attract many visitors to County Meath to experience Ireland’s newest Greenway and what will be a walker’s paradise with pedestrian pathways connecting the six villages, encouraging economic activity and an opportunity for visitors to interact with the local people.

11

TARA MINES WORKERS SUPPORT PACKAGE EXTENDED UNTIL NEXTYEAR A support package for Tara Mines workers laid off temporarily has been extended until next year after a meeting between unions and Boliden Tara Mines.

Tara Mines was closed temporarily last July leaving 650 workers laid off indefinitely who have still not heard any indications of when the mine will resume operations.

Boliden has not given a date for when Tara Mines operations will recommence due to factors behind their decision to suspend it were still evident, according to a Boliden Tara Mines representative.

Workers voted to accept a deal brokered during the lay off period regarding their terms and conditions, including a €65 per week retainer payment.

SIPTU Divisional Organiser Adrian Kane has called the current situation for mine workers “simply wrong” due to many being paid below the poverty line.

“The proposals by the Gov-

ernment over Tara Mines are not at a sufficiently high level,” Adrian Kane said.

“We are seeking a commitment from all public representatives to support the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) proposal for Jobseeker’s Benefit to be

increased to 70 per cent of average earnings capped at €550 for a minimum of nine months.”

Mine workers are also concerned about paying their children’s education as those currently attending third-level education are

not entitled to Students Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) grants. The income threshold for grants is based on previous year’s income, not the current year, but they can apply for a reassessment if there is a change in circumstance from 1st January 2023.

Tuition and maintenance grants are available for students whose parents are on low incomes, but the income threshold is based on the previous years income, and not the current year’s.

SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Regan said it was an

anomoly that is affecting mine staff - although they have been laid off their children are not entitled to grants based on their previous income.

A Boliden Tara Mines spokesperson said they are aware of the impact that the lack of a return date is having on workers, but “Since the onset of care and maintenance we have been in continuous dialogue with the group of unions, and in our meeting on October 12th we agreed to extend the current employee support package.”

“Ultimately the re-opening of the mine will be heavily influenced by external market conditions, but the development of the rescue plan, which is within our control, will help to expedite the process. Our focus is on the development of a plan that will ensure re-opening can take place as soon as conditions allow. We will continue to engage locally with the unions throughout this process.”

12

CULTURE VOUCHER WOULD OFFER DUNSHAUGHLIN GROWS BY 65 PERCENT IN JUST SIX YEARS BOOST TO MEATH VENUES Local arts centres and theatres would receive a substantial boost if the Government backed a call for the introduction of a culture voucher for young people turning 18.

That is the view of local MEP Colm Markey who was speaking during a recent visit to the Solstice Arts Centre in Navan.

The Midlands-North-West MEP is campaigning for Ireland to follow a number of EU countries in handing out a Culture and Media card worth €200 to every young person on their 18th birthday.

He commented, “Ireland is renowned globally for its arts, music, literature and theatre, and I firmly believe that we should increase our investment in the rich cultural heritage on offer. According to the Arts Council, there has been a decline in the number of young people attending cultural events. This initiative aims

to bring them back to cultural venues while also providing crucial support to Ireland’s cultural industries.

“After the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, similar schemes were successfully implemented in a number of EU countries. The Culture and Media card could be stored and accessed on an app and used at designated selling points including bookshops, theatres, museums, galleries, and small music venues.

“I am strongly convinced that investing in the cultur-

al development of Ireland’s young citizens is an investment in the nation’s future prosperity and identity. By offering this special gift to young people as they reach adulthood, Ireland can nurture a generation that deeply values its cultural heritage and embraces diverse artistic expressions.”

MEP Markey met with a number of locals groups on his visit to Navan including Cultúr Migrants Centre, Meath Travellers workshop, SHEROES Global, Meath Muslim Community, Meath Ukrainian group and Navan Christian group

The population in Dunshaughlin grew 65 percent between 2016 and 2022 as Meath increased by 13 percent during the same time period, one of the fastest growing in Ireland.

Dunshaughlin jumped from 4,035 to 6,644 people according to Census 2022 figures, now growing larger than Kells which has a population of 6,608.

Meath increased its total population to 220,836 with its largest town Navan growing to 33,686, and Ashbourne, its second largest, now stands at 15,680.

Ratoath grew to 10,077 after a six percent increase and Trim to 9,563 with a four percent growth.

It makes it the fastest growing town in Meath and now has a larger population than the town of Kells which grew by eight per cent to 6,608.

Meath’s fastest growing village was Kilclloon growing 68 percent from 280 to 460 and Clonee village followed with a 46 percent increase and Kilmessan by 39 percent.

Dunboyne’s population fell slightly but the town bound-

aries may not be exactly the same as the previous Census for each of the towns.

Laytown/Bettystown was the largest of Meath’s six municipal districts standing at 40,600 followed by Ratoath at 39,226, Navan at 39,294, Kells at 34,575, Ashbourne at 33,516, and Trim at 33,455.

Information for each community across Ireland Is now available following the Central Statistics Office’s publication of the Small Area Population Statistics from Census 2022.

13

MNÁ NA HÉIREANN, WOMEN OF IRELAND EMPOWERMENT FUND Five non-profit organisations who support women experiencing disadvantage and discrimination receive €1 million in total from the Mná na hÉireann, Women of Ireland Empowerment Fund.

The Mná na hÉireann, Women of Ireland Empowerment Fund 2023 – 2026 is a €1 million fund created

by Rethink Ireland. This is in partnership with Bank of America and the Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund. The current fund is building on the previous Mná na hÉireann Women of Ireland Fund 2019–2022, which helped more than 1,000 women find sustainable employment. Its new iteration aims at supporting women facing different forms of disadvantage who will benefit most from intensive wraparound support which will enable them to transition into education or employment.

“It is critical that we enable this group of women through education and employment, to change not only their lives but also the lives of their families,” CEO of Rethink Ireland Deirdre Mortell said.

“Moving women out of poverty and into decent work is the one generation solution to poverty. This is the focus of the five non-profit organisations announced today.”

Equal Ireland, Jobcare, Meath Travellers’ Workshops, One Family, and Saoirse are all to receive investments through this fund, each of which supports women in their own way.

These five non-profits will support women experiencing multiple forms of disadvantage and discrimination to combat barriers in relation to accessing employment.

Equal Ireland is a higher education network for women and Jobcare works with those struggling with the effects of long-term unemployment in Dublin’s inner city.

The Voluntary Community Development Organisation Meath Travellers’ Workshops is a partnership of Travellers and Settled people working together to support each other in their own community.

One Family is a specialist service provider to people living in one-parent families and lastly, Saoirse, Ethnic Hands on Deck, is a social enterprise founded by migrant women living in direct provision and local communities in County Cork.

“The five non-profit organisations announced today play an integral role in enabling women in Ireland, breaking down the barriers they face in pursuing equality and financial security through education and employment,” Minister for Community Development and Charities Joe O’Brien said.

“We are delighted to support the Mná na hÉireann, Women of Ireland Empowerment Fund to this aim.”

14

INTERNATIONAL SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE LOSS DAY WALK AND EVENTS FOSL raises awareness of support for suicide bereaved with a walk and events on international survivors of suicide loss day.

Friends of Suicide Loss are holding a walk from The Spire, O’Connell Street , Dublin 1 to Clontarf Castle on November 18th to honour a day devoted to those impacted by suicide. On this special walk they will be carrying a ‘candle of hope’.

For the 6th concessive year Friends of Suicide Loss will have the ‘Mourning Has Broken’ walk to commemorate the International Survivors of Suicide Lost day(also known as Survivor Day), Proceedings will kick off at 1:30pm, with those taking part asked to meet at The Spire on O’Connell Street, from where, the walkers will

make their way to Clontarf Castle where they will hold a commemoration of those that they have lost, followed by special events to support those in bereavement not just from suicide but including any other bereavement.

The International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day began in America in 1999 and was introduced by FOSL into Ireland for the first time 6 years ago with great success.

FOSL work to provide support to those who have been greatly impacted by the loss of someone in their immediate family, or a friend, to suicide. Amongst the many services they provide are outreach support, one to one support and support groups, workshops and educational programmes.

15

SOLSTICE ARTS CENTRE SET TO HIGHLIGHT TALENT OF MEATH ARTISTS AT THEIR UPCOMING SURVEYOR EXHIBITION FROM DEC 2ND – JAN 6TH Solstice Arts Centre invited artists living in or from County Meath to submit works for inclusion in their twelfth SURVEYOR open exhibition, which will take place at Solstice from 2 December 2023 to 6 January 2024.

rator of this year’s Surveyor: Mary is currently the newly appointed Director of The Dock in Limerick.

Mary is the founder and Artistic Director of Ormston

SURVEYOR serves to support, value and encourage Meath artists in the development of their practices and creative careers. The exhibition will present an overview of contemporary visual arts practice throughout the county.

This year’s artworks will be selected by Mary Conlon and will see the continuation of the Solstice Visual Arts Award, to the value of €2,000. This will be awarded to a work of distinction in any medium.

Works of all disciplines were welcomed for submission.

About Mary Conlon – Cu-

House, a meeting place for the arts in the heart of Limerick city. In that role, she has overseen exhibitions and projects with over 400 artists – aged 8 to 82 – from 35 countries. She was Artistic Director of the Creative Europe project, Memory

of Water, developing artist-led, community-centred projects in six international cities, and recently worked with four local authorities on an Invitation to Collaboration project along the River Shannon. She served three terms on the Board of Directors of EVA International, Ireland’s Biennial of Contemporary Art, and is currently an elected member of the Executive Committee of Trans Europe Halles, a network of 140 grassroots cultural centres in 40 countries.

Last year, following over 100 entries in 2022, Dunshaughlin born-London based Hazel O’Sullivan, a mixed media visual artist was announced as the winner of the Solstice Visual Arts Award (SURVEYOR) in 2022. She returned to Solstice in 2023 with her exhibition ‘Harvest Gold’.

16

NA BPAISTI HALLOWEEN NEW FACILITIES FOR RATOATH NEEDED FEILEEVENT AND PARADE

More people are coming to live in Ratoath, but an upgrade of facilities is an essential requirement.

The strain on vital utilities such as water and sewage systems are already clear and businesses such as hairdressers and cafes have been affected by a series of water outages, sometimes without any notice. This is despite local politicians campaigning for an upgrade in facilities for many years such as better water services, improved roads and transport, both affordable and social housing and an additional playground or public park.

Consumers need to travel out of their locality to access larger supermarket chains such as Dunnes Stores and Tesco in Ashbourne or Aldi and Lidl in Dunshaughlin.

Ratoath College is the only secondary school in Ratoath, which is full to capacity and leaving parents having to travel to other secondary schools which are out of this jurisdiction.

Construction started on

a new road and commutBy Aodhan Tomkins ers traveling leading from M o l d e n from AshBridge housing estate, bourne to the Fairyhouse past Ratoath College Road. leading to the Fairyhouse Commuters in Ratoath usRoad more than two years ing bus services to Dublin ago. Pedestrians have acCity Center, Blanchardcess, but the road is instown center, Dunboyne complete and not open to and surrounding areas traffic yet. The new road have been campaigning will provide better access for better reliable services

services in the Meath area over a five-year period.

Improvements are yet to be seen in 2023.

There are plans for new additions to the town, however, as Meath County Council have proposed the idea for a library in Ratoath which would be a great amenity for locals, including students who need to study. Currently the nearest library is in Ashbourne and a local library would complement the great service the community center in Ratoath provides.

New developments in footpaths and cycle lanes around the village are in progress. Supermarkets such as Tesco express, Centra and Supervalu provide great service to the community.

for people, in particular anyone driving to Ratoath College, and this will be welcomed by the surrounding housing estates

from providers since 2021, then a financial package worth 50 million had been put in place by the government to improve these

There have been great events and activities held in the local community center and The Venue over the years though some issues need to be resolved on essential services to make Ratoath a better place to live.

Book Now For Hearing Tests Ear Wax Removal By Microsuction Hearing Aid Repair Hearing Aid Supply and Fitting EARWAX REMOVAL CLINIC NOW AVAILABLE SATURDAYS

BY APPOINTMENT

Ryan House Wellness Centre 087 4505960 Emmet Street CITY HALL Tel: 087 4505960 Trim hearallhearing.ie Co Meath

Feile na bPaisti had their Halloween event and parade on Saturday the 28th of October in the O’’Mahoneys Hall from 4pm-6pm followed by a parade at 6pm around the town.

It was a free event. The day consisted of art workshops, face painting, witches cave, arts and crafts stalls. Local musicians entertained us with their amazing sounds tunes. We also had free trick or treat bags for the children.

They dedicated the Halloween event to Sharon Maher who sadly died last week.

She helped them organise there very first Feile na

bPaisti event which took place in Claremont Stadium a few years ago. She was absolutely amazing and they were greatful to have her on board. She will be deeply missed by everyone on the committee and a huge loss to Navan.

Navamba Samba, Peadar Farrelly, Navan Cycle lnitiative, Navan’s Women’s Shed, Navan Gymnastics Club and Navan River Rescue took part in the parade.

It was brilliant to see so many people take part in the parade. It was a great atmosphere. Every year it will get bigger and better, our aim is to keep the spirit of Navan alive.

17

DOGS TRUST LAUNCHES “SAVE THE NEXT DOG” CAMPAIGN IN RESPONSE TO HUGE SURGE IN SURRENDER REQUESTS

Following a record number of surrender requests this year, Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, has today launched an emotive campaign entitled “Save the Next Dog” to highlight the sheer volume of dogs facing uncertain futures across the country.

Dogs Trust revealed that from January to October 2023, they have been contacted by almost 3,500 people seeking to relinquish their dog. This is the highest number of surrender requests that the charity has ever recorded in a year, since opening their centre in 2009. Unwanted behaviour, accommodation challenges and owners not having enough time are the three most commonly provided reasons to Dogs Trust, from people asking to surrender dogs.

Two recent victims of the ongoing unwanted dog crisis are Tiny and Minnie,

both Jack Russell Terriers of approximately 11 years of age, who were callously thrown from a moving

tion and to find their forever home.

Another example is a litter

causing extreme itching and discomfort to both dogs and people.

and it has made us question if people cannot currently afford to look after their dogs? Unfortunately, we are then left to cover expensive medical costs which, in some cases, could have been easily treated when they initially arose.”

As part of the campaign, the charity is launching an emotive, new TV advert showing it’s not just owners who are having to make impossible choices but also the team at Dogs Trust who are working tirelessly to help as many dogs as possible.

car in Dublin. After being treated for their initial injuries and kept under observation for a week by The Irish Blue Cross, both dogs came to Dogs Trust to continue their rehabilita-

of seven Springer Spaniel puppies who were found abandoned at the gate to the charity’s rehoming centre. The pups had sarcoptic mange, a highly contagious condition,

Niamh Curran-Kelly, Veterinary and Welfare Manager at Dogs Trust Ireland said: “We are seeing more and more cases of dogs being abandoned with extensive veterinary needs,

Regional Manager, Eimear Cassidy at Dogs Trust Ireland explained: “We are being contacted by dog pounds and other welfare organisations around the country, as well as members of the public, asking us to take dogs. It’s distressing to hear the desperation in the voices of the people who contact

us and having to say that we only have space for a certain number of dogs breaks our hearts. Everyone involved in dog welfare is trying their very best to help as many dogs as possible but the sheer number of dogs who have nowhere to go is overwhelming.”

Executive Director of Dogs Trust Ireland, Suzie Carley concluded: “Many dog owners in Ireland are in crisis and being forced to make heart-breaking decisions. However, Dogs Trust and many other organisations like us, are having to make impossible choices because we simply don’t have the resources to take them all. The sad truth is that it’s getting tougher to save every dog that needs us. As a charity that receives no government funding, we are appealing to the dog-loving public to please support us, so we can continue to save the next dog in need.”

BLACK BUSH GOLF CLUB (DUNSHAUGHLIN) LADY CAPTAIN’S CHARITY DAY

Lady Captain, Hazel Conroy, very kindly chose the Irish Kidney Association as the beneficiary of her charity day at Black Bush Golf Club in Dunshaughlin on August 8th. The Club has a good relationship with the Irish Kidney Association having previously agreed to host the golf competition for the 2020 European Transplant & Dialysis Sports Championships (which had to be cancelled due to the pandemic). The Club also supported training opportunities for the Ireland team in the build up to the event.

The relationship does not end there. One of the ladies very involved in delivering the charity day, Linda McGee, was also very involved (with her husband Brian) in the delivery of the 2010 European Transplant & Dialysis Games in Dublin.

The weather was great on the day of the event and there was a great buzz about the Club as regular members and visitors from other golf clubs showed up to participate. There was a real appreciation for the work of the Irish Kidney Association and interest in finding out more about how organ donation works.

The course fees on the day plus a very successful raffle resulted in a total of €6,067 being raised for the Irish Kidney Association.

18

County Meath has proudly earned a stellar reputation from locals and visitors alike for its award winning restaurants and eateries, quality food producers and suppliers of delicious cuisines from all over the globe.

Whether you are looking for a romantic meal for two or a feast to feed all the family, Meath is a true gem in the heart of the boyne valley.

Junior who will carry the torch for years to come.

For online orders and more information visit www.hughmaguirebutchers.com

For your local trusted butcher check out Hugh Maguires Butchers in Ashbourne. Hugh Maguire has been Ireland’s premier butcher for over three decades now. His passion and dedication to his craft are unparalleled, which is reflected in his quality products.

Hugh’s curiosity and affection for working with pork, in particular, led him to buy his own smokehouse and manufacturing facility in Navan, back in 2016. Hugh intends to carry on creating one of a kind artisan pork items and is joined with his son Hugh

Domomart Discount Ethnic Supermarket is located in Navan offering a vast array of flavours from all over the world. From tropical juices, aromatic spices and tastes that remind so many of home, are all available at Domomart.

Offering a Free Nationwide Delivery on orders over €60 coupled with a top class customer service you can be sure of quality products at affordable prices delivered fresh to your door.

Visit www.domomart. ie

Gourmet Food Parlour in Dunshaughlin serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner 7 days a week.

Enjoy a delicious meal in the ambience of the restaurant , order takeaway to enjoy at home or let the team at Gourmet Food Parlour take care of your special occasion with their full catering option too.

Their ethos is simple,to produce healthy, nutritious and affordable food while sourcing their ingredients from local suppliers. Their scrumptious Christmas set menus are now available in addition to the popular Christmas at Home Box and Gourmet Gifts. For reservations and more information visit w w w. g o u r m e t f o o dparlour.com

Discover Portuguese & Mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Dunshaughlin village at Tenoo. Enjoy a relaxed dining experience with food choices of grilled Mediterranean dishes and Portuguese favourites. Open Tuesday to Sunday Order online or make a reservation at wwwtenoo.ie/tenoo-dunshaughlin Christmas Party Nights are in full swing at Killeen Castle Get ready to indulge in a night filled with festive cheer at Killeen Castle Golf Resort & Lodges!

Their Christmas Party Nights are created to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with great music, food and company!

The evening will start off with a mulled wine reception on arrival followed by a 4-course menu prepared by the Executive Head Chef Declan Cronin and the evening finishing up with live entertainment.

Tickets are €60 per person.

For bookings visit www. killeencastle.com Massimos Restaurant in Ashbourne serves a mix of Mediterranean Classics & Local Favourites. With daily lunch specials and early bird menus all made fresh using quality ingredients available 7 days a week. For online reservations visit www.massimosrestaurant.ie Experience Fine Dining at Koyla Indian Restau-

rant located in the heart of Dunboyne. It has been widely recognized as the pioneer of exquisite Indian cuisine in the Co. Meath. Koyla Restaurant has won numerous accolades for its food, service and decor. For reservations and more information visit www.koyla.ie Pizza Max in Navan has always been dedicated to serving hot, fresh pizza. Whether you’re enjoying the night alone or celebrating with your best mates, they have something for everyone.

Check out their Tasty New Indian Curries, mouthwatering burgers and traditional takeaway favourites online or order at www.pizzamax.ie

19

20

21

22

23

24

Over the years County Meath has bloomed, flourished and blossomed into the cosmopolitan county it is today.

The busy shopper can choose from styles to suit all ages and every occasion, handmade gifts, designer delights and bespoke furniture that will last a lifetime.

Discover all the latest fashion trends at McElhinneys Menswear. With new men’s shirts, t-shirts, trousers, shorts, hoodies and much more arriving every week.

Visit the shop located in Athboy to experience a 5 star service where their menswear staff will be delighted to help you find what you need or you can browse all their latest collections online at www.mcelhinneys. com

Spun opened their first store in Trim in December 2015 and is now located in Johnstown Navan. Stockists of leading brands such as; Bianchi, Giant, Liv, Forme and Cannondale bike brands and Brooks, Saucony, and Inov8 runners.

The lads have a great Christmas Club available so you can make small installments right up to Christmas eve. Shop online or instore at www.spuncycles-spunrun.ie

Spun Cycles and Spun Run is owned and managed by two life long friends Dave Webster and Graham Macken. Born out of a desire to provide the people of Meath and beyond, top quality products with top class customer service.

The heritage town of Kells is home to Paul’s Menswear stocking premium menswear brands such as SuperDry, Columbia, Ellesse, Lyle & Scott, 6th Sense, XV Kings by Tommy Bowe, to name just a few... Styles for both formal and casual

wear with quality and comfort in mind. Tailoring, footwear and wedding attire all catered for with Nationwide Delivery www. paulsmenswear.ie Blondelles is a well established women’s boutique in the heart of Ratoath village stocking quality Ladies and Childrens clothing at affordable prices.

From casual and cosy to glitz and glam, the girls at Blondelles have styles to suit all ages and every occasion.

Also stocking all local school uniforms and quality school clothing. Follow Blondelles on social media for all the latest arrivals and special offers. www. blondelles.ie It is party season and

no party is complete without Balloon Time!

Navan’s latest Balloon outlet catering for all occasions from parties, weddings, corporate events, family gatherings and Christmas celebrations. The girls at Balloon Time will turn every event into a five star occasion with each display unique to you and your special day. Open Monday - Saturday 085 746 2147

This and That Gifts is a family owned business with two stores in Blackcastle Navan and Kilcock Co Kildare.

Renowned for their love of Irish brands of Crystal, Frames, Mugs, Candles, Flowers, Handbags, Frangance’s, Jewellery, Homeware, Beauty & Wellbeing and personalised gifts.

Visit www. thisandthatgifts.ie for orders and more information.

Fergus Flanagan Furniture is a family-run business located in the heart of Navan that has been proudly manufacturing Irish made and Designed Furniture for more than 40 years.

Chairs, Sofas, Suites and Furniture pieces are uniquely yours

and custom designed to meet the individual needs of their residential and commercial customers from all over Ireland.

All of the furniture is designed in-house and manufactured completely at their premises in Beechmount Home Park.

Their furniture is designed to last & hand crafted with care from a Flanagan family tradition of true Irish Craftsmanship that spans over four decades. www.flanaganfurniture.ie

SHOP LOCAL & SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES IN MEATH THIS CHRISTMAS.

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

DUNBOYNE COLLEGE SUPPORTING STUDENTS FOR PROGRESSION AND EMPLOYMENT As it celebrates its 20th anniversary Dunboyne College of Further Education is going from strength to strength.

Currently there are over 1200 full-time students enrolled on over 70 courses, the highest ever number enrolled in the college.

In a new development full-time students are joined on campus by 25 apprentices, the firsttime apprenticeship options have been offered in Dunboyne. The college currently offer both the Accounting Technician and Hairdressing Apprenticeships.

“Employer engagement and the opportunity to progress to further study or into a career is at the heart of all courses in Dunboyne College of Further Education and Training (DCFE)” according to Denis Leonard, Principal of Dun-

boyne College.

All courses in the college lead to a recognized qualification with graduates progressing straight to employment or to degrees in nearby universities including Maynooth University, TUD (formerly DIT and ITB), DCU and other universities across the country.

Dunboyne College has entered growing partnerships with these universities for progression opportunities and advanced entry as well as some course colocation opportunities.

Denis Leonard attributes the strong support received from Louth and Meath Education Training Board (LMETB) to the continued growth of the college. “Martin O’Brien, Chief Executive, LMETB and Sadie Ward McDermott, Director of Further Education are very strong advocates for the development of

the college at national level. They recognise the contribution the college can make to the county.

As the only dedicated college of further education in the region and the main FET provider for Meath, west Dublin and north Kildare we want to grow alongside businesses and continue to support the development and growth of the economy in the region.

“We serve a demographic of nearly 500,000, 220,000 of those in Meath. The region has experienced an 11 to 13% population growth in the last 6 years. The college opened in 2003 with 50 students and this year we have over 1200 students enrolled so we’ve come a long way.

The dedication, innovation and passion of our highly qualified teaching staff has ensured that the standard of teaching and learning in DCFE is

always highly commended by our external examiners. This is augmented by our student support services team which ensures that all students receive a quality service.

The work of our academic and support staff has been supported by the employers across Meath, Dublin and Kildare and he wider Leinster region who have taken our students on placement, they have worked with us on the development of new courses and employed our graduates.”

The college also supports the recruitment efforts of employers and in provides upskilling opportunities. The Skills to Advance funded programme, offers employers and employees the opportunity to complete recognized national qualifications, with reduced fees, and courses scheduled at a time that meets the needs of

the industry. “Dunboyne College works with businesses to meet upskilling challenges,” says Catherine Fox, Deputy Principal, Dunboyne College.

“We liaise with companies to identify a course and arrange a schedule for part-time courses that works for them.” The college also provides a skilled workforce for those recruiting. All students must complete a placement in their chosen area of study with an employer’s report contributing to the student’s final grade. “By engaging with the student at the start of their course they are able to support them in their studies and possibly gain a full-time member of staff. One employer has described the process as like a long running interview.”

The employer relationship is two-way with the business community supporting students through the college

scholarship programme.

The programme is in its third year and has been hugely successful in promoting education opportunities and helping students continue in their courses.

Businesses and employers with training or recruitment requirements are encouraged to contact the college and can do by emailing cfox. dbc@lmetb.ie The college is now open for application for 2024 with 80 courses across Healthcare, Social care, Education, Law and Politics, Arts, Business, Computing, Engineering, Visual arts, Film, Music, Hospitality, Tourism, Sports, Beauty and Animal care area. The college also has level 6 year 2 progression in some of these disciplines.

Just apply at www.dunboynecollege.ie

32

THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING? Niamh Giffney an Estate Agent in DNG Royal County Navan Co. Meath gives her top tips if you’re thinking of selling or buying a property:

IF YOU’RE SELLING A PROPERTY: • Contact a local real es tate agent: A local real estate agent with local knowledge and experience of your area can help you market your property effectively and find potential buyers.

• Set a competitive price: Your Estate Agent will research the local market to determine a fair and competitive price for your property.

Overpricing can deter buyers, while under pricing may lead to a loss.

• Prepare your property: Make sure your property is in good condition, well presented and clean for viewings. Consider making small repairs or improvements to increase its appeal.

• Engage a solicitor: Appointing a solicitor at an early stage can help identify any potential issues (such as planning / retention), these can be dealt with early in the

process. If you have a mortgage on your property your solicitor will requests the deeds from your bank and have them ready to go with the contract for sale, they will also inform you what they will require from you, such as NPPR and LPT. • Market your property: Your estate Agent will use various marketing channels, including online listings: DNG.ie, daft.ie and myhome.ie, social media posts, and traditional advertising, to reach potential buyers.

• Be prepared for negoti ations: Be flexible during negotiations and willing to work with buyers to reach a mutually satisfactory deal.

and make your offer more attractive to sellers.

• Start by searching online listings: You can use real estate websites, such as DNG.ie, Daft.ie or MyHome. ie, to search for properties in Navan and the surrounding areas.

• Work with a local real estate agent: An experienced agent can help you find properties that match your criteria and guide you through the buying process.

• Visit properties in person: Schedule viewings to see the properties you’re interested in to get a better sense of their condition and location.

IF YOU’RE BUYING / PURCHASING A PROPERTY:

• Negotiate the deal: Once you find a property you like, work with the real estate agent to negotiate the terms and price with the seller.

• Conduct due diligence: When your offer is accepted, have a professional inspection carried out on the property to uncover any potential issues.

• Get a pre-approval for a mortgage: Knowing how much you can afford will help narrow down your search

Keep in mind that the property market can change over time, so staying informed

If you’re thinking of Sellng your home, contact us on 046 9073737 for a free valuation

YOUR SINN FÉIN TEAM IN SOUTH EAST MEATH

Darren O'Rourke TD m 01 8499573 k darren.orourke @oireachtas.ie

Trish Murtagh

m 085 1574710 k trishmurtaghsf @gmail.com

Cllr. Helen Meyer

m 085 1415751 k helen.meyer @members.meathcoco.ie

Fionnan Blake

m 085 8413576 k fionnanblakesf @gmail.com

and working with professionals in the industry will help you navigate the process successfully.

Niamh Giffney is a licensed estate agent and is a member of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers. She has a wealth of knowledge and has been involved in the Meath property market for 17 years, she is the utmost straight talker, keeping clients interests at the forefront, while delivery an exceptional service that has exceeded expectations time and time again.

Contact us in confidence, to arrange a no obligation free valuation on 046 907 3737

TRIM NAMED TIDY TOWNS WINNER IN MEATH Gaining 374 points this year, Trim edged out Moynalty by two points to win Meath’s Tidiest Town.

Moynalty were very close to winning Ireland’s Tidiest Town for a second year running, losing out to Abbeyleix in Laois by just three points.

Trim held many projects during the course of the last year to make sure they would maintain their lead in Meath, along with challenging for top spot in Ireland again.

The 10,000 Elder Tree Project and the Big Boyne Clean up, were two huge successes as well as the long awaited opening of Trim Library and Culture Centre.

The Elder Tree Project was set up with a tree or shrub to be planted for every citizen of Trim over the next decade.

The Big Boyne Clean up involved more than a dozen people above the usual Tidy Towns volunteers in their daily clean up.

This event helped to bring many surrounding com-

By Finn Mahon munities together with Navan, Slane and Oldbridge in attendance.

The Trim Library and Culture Centre was visited by President, Michael D Higgins, where he presented them with their national award.

Trim also made a big effort to be proactive in dealing with derelict sites such as Old Bridge Hostel.

Chairperson for Trim Tidy Towns Brian Heffernan said tidy towns are so im-

portant in Trim because “We have a product with the castle, porch fields and a historic centre which is quite beautiful, so it’s easier to get people involved when they already appreciate the town.”

He announced some plans for the year ahead as Trim look to keep improving with a “Tree planting project of course which is a massive thing and hopefully we can progress on a solar farm as well as working with schools on green projects”

33

34

Drive Safe Slow Down & Arrive Alive this Festive Season.

Here was have featured everything from Car Sales to Car Servicing, Driving Lessons, Top Quality Tyers, Mobile Valeting and Recovery Services that will have you back on the road in no time at all.

Euro Auto Services is located in Ashbourne Industrial estate providing all aspects of vehicle servicing, repairs, electrical and diagnostics. Artur and his team of mechanics take pride in providing a quality, reliable service at competitive prices. www.euroautoservice.ie

Flash Mobile Car Valeting can have your vehicle looking like new with a choice of valet options to suit your needs and budget. Their mobile service can come to your home or place of work and have your car

sparkling clean hassle free. www.flashcarvalet.ie Dunshaughlin Motor Company is located on the Main Street in Dunshaughlin village and was established in 2011 with the joining forces of McHenry Car Sales Ltd and Dublin Motor Company both operating in one great location. Working side by side Dunshaughlin Motor Co & McHenry Car Sales offer a wide variety of quality premium cars which are all amongst the most competitively priced on the market. All cars come fully valeted, serviced and receive a multi

point check with fantastic finance rates available. Customers can drive away with peace of mind with a comprehensive warranty on all their approved used vehicles. For excellent customer service and value for money visit www.dmc.ie Epic Driving School is located in Duleek providing lessons for all vehicle types and will teach you a skill for life making sure you are prepared and ready to pass your test with flying colours! Using a modern and fresh approach to teaching you to drive ensures even the most nervous

learner will experience enjoyable lessons in a safe and comfortable environment. For bookings and gift vouchers visit www.epicdrivingschool.ie LC Tyres Dublin and Tyre Hunter Navan have been in the tyre business in Ireland since 1984. In this time they have amassed a wealth of tyre knowledge and experience which helps them to provide customers with the best tyres to suit their requirements. Whether it’s for a Lawnmower or the largest Earthmover machine in Ireland not only do they have the

best price in new tyres but they probably can also offer a used tyre at half price. Specializing in Car Truck and Earthmover. www.lctyres.ie Academy Car Sales in Navan specializes in the sale of quality used cars and light commercial vehicles. With over 20 years experience in the motor trade you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands with the team at Academy Cars.

They are members of the SIMI and go above and beyond to make sure that every used vehicle they sell are of the highest standards.

All cars come fully

serviced & inspected and have a full-service history.

For more information and all the latest stock visit www.academycarsales.com Hulk Recovery was established in 2021 providing a 24 hour towing service. Their specialized equipment can tow any vehicle and Jason and the team at Hulk Recovery take pride in providing a fast and affordable service to the Meath and Dublin region seven days a week.

Visit www.hulkrecovery.com or Call 0851323003

35

36

37

38

40

39