Meath Local News, Edition 8

Edition 8

RETAINED FIREFIGHTERS STRIKE UNTIL CONCESSIONS ARE MADE

By Eoin Ryan

Retained Firefighters in SIPTU across the country began strike actions on June 6 due to what they say was an inadequate response to recruitment and retention issues.

SIPTU members in the retained fire service voted in favour of industrial action in January which will proceed in stages.

Fire Service Management offered an increase in fire service numbers through a third party facilitator but negotiations fell through after SIPTU said they required a significant increase in pay. Each stage

will commence if there is no resolution to the dispute before their starting dates meaning the strike can be called off at any stage in the preceding days..

The first stage commenced on 6 June with members beginning a campaign of noncooperation in work with responding to emergency calls being its exception.

This involves refusing to engage in training exercises and members using only analogue instead of radio and digital technology.

Rolling strikes will start on 13 June, a series of one day work stoppages at half of Ireland’s fire station at any given time. An all out

strike will begin on 20 June “if the dispute has not been resolved,” according to Siptu. They confirmed members will respond to all emergency calls involving life-threatening situations during this period.

There are 201 fire stations in Ireland with retained firefighters, most of which are located in rural areas.

Meath county Council said in a statement that local authorities have engaged with SIPTU with contingency arrangements put in place “And wish to assure the public that every effort will be made to mitigate any risk to them arising from any industrial action.”

The Council said they will “continue to keep lines of communication open during the duration of the dispute.”

Of Ireland’s 3,000 firefighters, 2,000 are retained instead of full time firefighters. They are paid an annual retainer for being available for call-outs which is dependent on the number of incidents they attend.

This includes the option to work part time jobs to supplement their income but their second job needs to be located within 2.5km of their fire station.

Their home must also be within that same distance

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2 Continued from page 1 from their station and respond within five minutes of being called to report for work. Retained firefighters do not work shifts but are on call 24/7 and can never drink or stray too far from home while on call.

Their overall pay has also lowered as call-outs to fires has declined from 62% to 45% of all calls since 2002.

These issues have led to a high turnover rate with 716 firefighters leaving the service between September 2016 and 2021, 495 of which left before retirement age.

58% of firefighters said they were likely to leave the service within the next three years, according to a review conducted on behalf of the department by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management.

“This is a figure of significant concern to the project team,” the review stated.

Close to 80% of firefighters found it difficult achieving a work-life balance and, of those likely to leave, 67 per cent said it is due to the demand of 24/7 on-call availability.

“The (current) model is not considered sufficient by

staff in terms of delivering an effective service and getting a work/life balance,” the review stated.

It said another review on the overall remuneration model is necessary, including the pay in terms of the requisite commitment.

Other recommendations in the review include a move away from the retainer pay model, more fixed elements of pay and access, and structured time off. Stephen McFadden of the National Retained Firefighters Association of Ireland (NRFA) said members were quitting “in their droves” because it is near impossible to acquire mortgage approval due to their employment status.

They also lack the pension entitlements that full timers have and many can not take leave entitlements due to staff shortages and their reduction in income.

Deputy Michael McNamara said many retained firefighters are on social welfare due to their job restrictions.

McNamara said the Local Government Management Association appears to have a veto on progress in the talks with the firefighters. “Previously,

firefighters have been very, very reluctant to go on strike, but this time we are willing to do so. Every person who is a firefighter wants to be a firefighter. There is no difference between a full-time firefighter and a retained firefighter. The training is exactly the same.

It costs €50,000 to train a firefighter and we are losing over 100 retained firefighters each year.

“With or without a strike, the fire service is in complete crisis. Even if the strike does not go ahead as proposed, around 60pc of firefighters plan to quit the service within the next 18 months.” “I don’t believe strike action is necessary,” Minister for Housing and Local Government Darragh O’Brien said when questioned by Labour TD Duncan Smith. “There’s a small number of issues that remain that can be worked out,” O’Brien continued.

“We’re continuing to engage with union representatives in this regard and I believe we can come to a resolution that will mean we can retain people in the fire service, but attract more, because there has been a big issue

in attracting newer staff to this and we heavily depend on the retained fire services and, indeed, the full-time fire services.”

“We’ve made real progress on the rostering, we’re progressing on time off, we’ll probably progress on allowances also. I want this resolved.” Duncan Smith

said that “What workers are really facing in this country is a crisis in terms of their real wages, in their terms and conditions of employment, and how far their actual wage packet is going.”

Water workers will also staged a two day strike on 7 and 8 June over terms of

employment if transferring to Uisce Eireann, formerly Irish Water. Disruption to water services may include boil-water notices being put in place and no water supply in some areas.

Minister O’Brien said the government offered Uisce Eireann “concessions” and the strike was unnecessary.

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CROÍ CÓNAITHE TOWNS FUND SCHEME: VACANT PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT GRANT

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is delivered by local authorities. It is a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, to provide for applications for one property which will be made available for rent, in addition to one property which will be a principal private residence.

The scheme launched in July 2022 and has now extended to rural areas as well as town and village locations. A grant of up to a maximum of €50,000 will be available for the refurbishment of vacant properties, for occupation as a principal private residence and for properties which will be made available for rent. This will be subject to upper limits for the types of work specified below having regard to a reasonable cost assessment by the local authority. The grant is inclusive of VAT cost of the works.

Where

the

refurbishment

costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €50,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 may be available where the property is confirmed by the applicant to be derelict (i.e. structurally unsound and dangerous), bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €70,000.

In the case of a top-up grant in respect of a derelict property, an independent report prepared by an appropriately qualified professional (e.g. quantity surveyor, engineer etc.) is required to be submitted along with the application confirming that the property is derelict (i.e. structurally unsound and dangerous).

Properties considered for inclusion must be vacant for two years or more, must be built up to and including 2007 and must be owned by the applicant. Confirmation of vacancy must be validated

prior to grant approval. This can be verified by Utility Bills, ESB meter readings, or such other proofs as are available to the satisfaction of the local authority. This will help determine vacancy periods (e.g., pattern of usage or disconnection).

Those applying for the grant will be required to indicate on the application form confirm if they are applying for the vacant property refurbishment grant alone or the vacant property refurbishment grant including the derelict property top-up grant. An SEAI Better Energy Home Scheme Grant may be available in combination with this grant. Works covered by SEAI Better Energy Homes Scheme will therefore not be covered. Applicants must demonstrate that proposed works are not claimed for under any other grant.

Proof of both vacancy and ownership will be required to support the grant payment.

In terms of ownership, it is a matter for the applicant to confirm ownership with the local authority.

A local authority may give approval in principle to a grant application where the applicant is able to provide evidence of active negotiations to purchase a property i.e. confirmation of engagement from the estate agency or owner of the property and where the owner provides such evidence as to vacancy as is required under the scheme on behalf of the applicant. Such approval in principle shall not be confirmed as approval in full until ownership has transferred to the applicant and no drawdown may take place until such ownership has been confirmed to the satisfaction of the local authority.

Further information is contained in the scheme outline, application form and associated FAQs.

5 INCREASE IN CHILDREN’S DISABILITY NETWORK VACANCIES SINCE LAST YEAR

By Sorcha Rose McGroarty Figures in a recent HSE report show that nationwide vacancies in the Children’s Disability Network are higher than the year previous, with Meath proving to have higher vacancy levels than the national average. While in 2021 the national average for vacancies in the sector were reported to be at 28% the 2022 report shows vacancies rising to 34% in just one year.

Meath reported to have vacancy levels of 35%. Sinn Fein TD Darren O’Rourke released a statement of his opinions on these figures, saying “It is devastating.”

“We know that this is across all teams and across all grades and disciplines.”

The Children’s Disability Network Team, (CDNT), provides services nationwide to support children with disabilities and complex health issues to flourish and thrive in environments catered to their needs across several sectors.

These sectors include access to psychologists, occupational therapists,

speech therapists, social workers and physiotherapists.

“There were over 707 vacancies across the 91 CDNTs nationally, as opposed to 524 in the previous census, with vacancy rates in Speech and Language Therapy (36%), Occupational Therapy (40%), and Psychology (39%) of particular concern, given their essential role in the delivery of legislative obligations for Assessment of Need under the Disability Act 2005.”

Speaking further on the matter, Darren O’Rourke TD also said, “Unfortunately, these figures will come as no surprise to parents/ guardians or children trying to access services. Across our country there is a shortage of therapists - SLT, OT, psychology, physio - and capacity.” Families with disabled children are finding it increasingly difficult to manage support for their children with the limited resources provided to them due to these shortages.

This is resulting in these children with complicated needs beyond their control

being left behind by the system intended to support them.

“The response from the HSE acknowledges the significant recruitment challenges and outlines efforts to address them, but it is clear that not enough is being done.

Where is the aggressive strategic plan?”

Chief Officer of the Midlands Louth Meath Health Organisation Des O’Flynn he said he acknowledged the shortages and their detrimental impact on children waiting for appointments with specialists In a letter to

O’Rourke.

“The CDNTs continue to strive to deliver as timely a service as possible but this is extremely challenging due to vacancy levels.

Recruitment remains a priority and all efforts at a local and national level are

being explored.”

In this letter, Chief officer Des O’Flynn also says the HSE is currently trying to source candidates for unfilled positions overseas, noting that the national pool is limited in its candidates for the necessary specialties.

THE GREEN SCHOOLS AWARDS 2023 Twenty-Seven Meath schools received their Green Flags at an awards ceremony in City North Hotel on Wednesday 24th May.

Boyne Community School, Colaiste na hInse, Ratoath College, St Ciarans Community School, St Patricks Classical School, Ashbourne Educate Together, Colaiste Pobail Rathcairn, Franciscan College Gormanston, Gaelscoil na Boinne, Scoil Naomh Bride Trim, St Andrews NS Curragha, St Marys NS Enfield, Gaelscoil Eanna, Loreto Navan, Carrickleck NS, Kilmainhamwood NS, Phil’s Montessori Kilcock, Scoil Naomh Pheadar agus Phoil Drumconrath, St Annes Loreto Primary Navan, St Finians NS Clonard, St Josephs NS Boyerstown, Scoil Colmcille Skryne, St Joseph’s NS Dunderry, St Oliver Plunkett NS Navan, Kilskyre NS, Scoil Mhuire Moylagh and St Patricks NS Slane all received their Green Flags for their extensive work on the Green Schools Initiative over a range of themes – Litter and Waste, Water, Travel, Biodiversity and ‘Global Citizenship – Litter & Waste, Energy, Marine and Travel’.

Green Schools is an immersive 7 step action programme

tacking an environmental theme over a two-year period.

On completion of the steps schools can apply for a Green Flag which will be valid for 2 years. The school then move onto the next theme whilst maintaining the work completed in their previous project. ‘Green Schools is a difficult but rewarding programme’ commented Joanne Scott, An Taisce Green Schools Manager, ‘and it is really encouraging to see the high level of involvement and commitment from teachers, students, caretakers and principals in Meath year on year’. The Green School Programme is operated by 15 million students in 70 countries. 85% of Irish Schools are currently or have participated in the initiative making Ireland one of the most successful Green Schools Project in the world.

The students and teachers were delighted to get their flags and many school parties and flag raising events are due to take place in the coming weeks. The talented students from Phil’s Montessori in Kilcock entertained the crowd with their original recycling song.

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SOD TURNED ON O’CAROLAN COLLEGE’S NEW PROJECT

By Eoin Ryan

The sod was turned for O’Carolan College’s new

school building in Nobber after the project was stalled due to funding issues. This new extension includes a

7,000 square metre threestorey school building with specialist rooms and a multipurpose hall. The project is

DUNBOYNE PLAYGROUND AND SKATE PARK UPGRADES BEGIN CONSTRUCTION

expected to take 18 months to finish.

The project was stalled, along with 57 other building projects, by the Department of Education in March due to an issue with funding. Plans were later given the green light in April.

A large proportion of the school is currently in dozens of prefabs with some in a poor state and needing repairs. The new school

By Eoin Ryan Upgrades to Dunboyne playground and skate park began on May 15 with construction expected to be completed in 10 to 12 weeks. The existing playground, skate park, and car park are currently closed while construction is taking place.

The pathway going towards Castleview entrance, pedestrian entrance at Maynooth Road, and the park’s green space are remaining open for its duration.

No existing equipment will be removed with only adjustments and surface repairs being made to its current playground.

These upgrades include a teen area fitted with table tennis, calisthenics bars and seating area. Almost €400,000 was raised

to accommodate these changes including a €285k investment from Meta, €100k in funds under the town and village renewal scheme and an additional €21k from Meath County Council. Fundraising was organised

by Dunboyne Playspace Forum in order to improve amenities for children and teens in the local area. “Delighted to hear this morning that €100k has been granted for the upgrade of Dunboyne Playground and Skatepark under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme,” Cllr. Maria Murphy said “A big thanks to the 900 people who answered our call last year and completed the survey which we distributed. Thanks also to the primary schools and playschools who supported the project and helped to spread the word.”

was first announced in 2014 and has taken nine years to begin construction. The sod was turned by local TDs Thomas Byrne and Helen McEntee during an event at O’Carolan College attended by staff and students.

“It’s taken a long time to get to this stage but it’s great to have ground broken and the building work will commence imminently and the timeline for completion is 18 months,” Minister for

Justice Helen McEntee said.

“I’d like to thank Principal, Brian Goggins for his commitment and working tirelessly on ensuring that this project was secured.

Thank you also to Martin O’Brien & LMETB, Meath County Council, also the Board of Management, Staff and the Students for all their hard work also. The new school will be a huge asset to all communities across north Meath”.

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HILL OF TARA: FILLED WITH RICH HISTORY AND A VIEW FOR MILES ON END

By Eoin Ryan The Hill of Tara is possibly Meath’s most famous and popular free place to visit with its rich history and iconic ring forts making it a memorable location for many locals. It is rich with history going back to the late Stone Age when a passage tomb, the mound of the hostages, was built. Its true significance dates back to the Iron Age, 600 BC to 400 AD, when it became the seat of the high kings of Ireland with all old Irish roads leading to this site. When St. Patrick came to Ireland, its importance became religiously symbolic.

Most of its buildings have disappeared with only ridges in the ground indicating a ring fort was built on those grounds next to its church and graveyard.

Guided tours are highly recommended for any who want a more in depth look at the Hill of Tara’s history and significance in Irish culture. Getting there can be an issue without a car as it takes a 20 minute walk uphill through country roads after taking a bus up.

This is not a location for those who want some quiet privacy mainly due to its popularity with at least one small group of people or couple at every major historical site There are other sections within its

terrain to discover, from the church which is also its visitor centre or the Well of the White Cow, its most secluded site. The visitor centre also includes a free Audio Visual show and guided tours for every day of the week.

When it comes to places with a great view it is hard to find any better in Meath then the Hill of Tara. Miles on end of green fields are seen from all directions as you explore its small hints of historical significance.

For anyone needing a quick rest before and after visiting or who simply want to buy some trinkets, there is a cafe/restaurant and tourist shop just at its entrance. It is also a good place for strolling, but differs from other walks which follow set paths that branch off in areas by giving a wide terrain to traverse. Though it is much smaller in comparison to other walkways, the freedom in where it can be travelled makes it a greater option for those who love to aimlessly wander and see where they end up.

For those who have not already visited the Hill of Tara or others wanting another visit, there are more than enough reasons to do so. Be it a guided tour or a blind wander across its open fields, there are many ways to explore one of Meath’s most historical sites.

Boyne Ramparts Walk: A path flowing with the river

By Eoin Ryan For those who crave a river view while strolling down gravel paths, the Boyne Ramparts Walk gives just that with derelict buildings and ducks included. Its very

beginning is a perfect spot for people off work or school in Navan to take a break and relax while taking in the River Boyne. It is advertised as 8 kilometres from one end to another but seems much longer as

the signs indicating distance how far key positions were.

One particular area was apparently one and a half kilometres long but took over half an hour to walk.

I would not recommend going its full stretch and back unless you are in very good shape or its walk back will be draining. For more athletic types or those wanting to get in shape, it is one of the best areas to do so if you want a great view as well. It is a bit difficult to measure the distance, however, so using a run or walk tracker might be needed if using the pathway for fitness.

A long stretch of the walk, however, is inaccessible to those with wheelchairs due

to barriers in place which are meant to block cyclists but fail to do so. There are limited exits, one at either side, which means going back down the same path that can be disinteresting for some.

There are several benches along the way for those wanting to take a breather or who want to simply take in all of its surrounding scenery. Some open spaces for resting on the ground are also available, be it in shade under trees or in open space taking in those Summer rays.

In terms of scenery, its greatest highlights have to be its derelict buildings scattered across its length and the River Boyne itself flowing alongside its tracks.

Ducks and other aquatic wildlife follow the river at every point with some resting on branches sticking out of its stream.

Having an entrance near Navan centre makes it easy to access anyone living

in its vicinity or working in town with another available at Drogheda. It is easy to recommend this to anyone looking for some peace and quiet or a nice spot to exercise who live or work in Navan or Drogheda or its surrounding areas.

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‘ALWAYS LISTEN TO YOUR BODY’ - MEATH STROKE SURVIVOR ON ROAD TO RECOVERY A Meath stroke survivor has said counselling helped him get his life back to normal two years after he collapsed in front of his heavily pregnant wife.

Mick O’Donnell, 35, was speaking as new European research revealed that one in eight stroke patients experience suicidal thoughts when they leave full-time care. The study by King’s College in London, published this week, also noted that around a third of survivors across the continent become clinically depressed in the years following what is known as a ‘brain attack’ and up to a quarter suffer ongoing anxiety.

It also found that a survivor’s risk of death by suicide is around twice that of the general population. “I was 33 when I had the stroke, and never knew what to expect,” said Mr O’Donnell, from Bettystown. “Not long after, our daughter Emma was born. “But I was no help. My balance was gone and my wife was nearly looking after two children.

“My mental health suffered because I wasn’t allowed to hold my baby. Sometimes I wasn’t even allowed to be on my own in case I had a fall.”

Mr O’Donnell said he believed he was having a migraine when he woke up with a massive headache in August 2021. “It was as if someone was plunging something into my head,” he said. Moments after walking downstairs, the father of two blacked out.

After his wife Maryjane rushed him to hospital, he said he had to plead with staff to give him a scan. An MRI revealed Mick had suffered a cerebellar stroke, which

occurs when the blood supply to the back of the brain is blocked, and he was admitted to the stroke unit at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. Although he was discharged after two weeks, a second spell in hospital, at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, followed seven days later where he was treated for dizzy spells.

His counselling sessions began shortly after staff at Connolly referred him to the Irish Heart Foundation.

“When the Irish Heart Foundation got in touch, I knew I wasn’t alone. “The counselling was fantastic because I was able to involve my wife. She was going through it as well. She was the backbone of it all, she helped me through everything.”

The Irish Heart Foundation’s Director of Advocacy, Chris Macey, has called on the Government to increase the level of specialist support available to stroke patients both in hospital and the community. “There are fewer than the equivalent of three full-time clinical psychology posts in the whole country to meet the needs of around 6,000 people hospitalised due to stroke every year.

“This means only one in 20 receive a service,” he said.

Now back working part-time as a printer, Mr O’Donnell said that the one thing all stroke survivors should know is recovery takes time. “Always listen to your body,” he said.

“If something is wrong, get it checked and never take ‘no’ for an answer – because if I didn’t stand my ground on that unfortunate day, God know if I’d be alive today.”

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MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL GAELTACHT SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS 2023 Thirty-eight students from seventeen secondary schools in the county have been awarded Gaeltacht scholarships by Meath County Council. The scholarships were presented by Cllr.

Nick Killian, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council to students at a special ceremony in Buvinda House, on Thursday 25th May. The scholarship scheme was set up in 2018 to honour Máire Nic Shiubhlaigh a founder actress of the Abbey Theatre and a leader of Cumann na mBán in Jacob’s Biscuit Factory during the 1916 Rising. Máire was also an employee of Meath County Council where she worked as a branch librarian in Laytown during the 1950’s.

The scheme was extended in recent years with new scholarships introduced for students attending DEIS schools.

The new scholarships honour the memory of two other

Irish language activists from the county, Mother Columba Gibbons, Loreto Navan and Máire Ní Raghallaigh from Drumconrath.

Guest speaker Manchán Magan thanked Meath County Council for honouring the memory of these revolutionary women, “We know that many of the women who participated in the events of the revolutionary period were forgotten and I am delighted that they are now re-emerging from the shadows and taking their place alongside the more well-known names associated with that period in our history.”

Commenting on the scholarship scheme, Jackie Maguire, Chief Executive of Meath County Council said that the organisation was delighted to be able to offer these scholarships to students with the support of the Creative Ireland

Meath programme, “This is a wonderful way for the Irish Language office in Meath County Council to demonstrate commitment to our native language.

I am delighted to see so many schools represented, and I hope the pupils have

a wonderful time in the Gaeltacht this summer. Ar aghaidh libh!”

Welcoming the expanded scholarship scheme Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Cllr. Nick Killian added, “I’m delighted

to see Máire Ní Raghallaigh honoured this year. The Drumconrath native dedicated her life to the Irish language movement, established an Irish language bookshop at 87 Dorset Street and was the sole wholesale agent for books printed by

the Gaelic League.

It is fitting that these scholarships named in her honour will provide the recipients with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the Irish language.”

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MEATH EXCELS AT NATIONAL COMMUNITY GAMES SWIM FINALS, SECURING THREE MEDALS

Meath County showcased remarkable achievement at the recent National Community Games Finals,

earning three medals—a silver and two bronze. The outstanding performance of Meath’s athletes not

only highlights their talent and dedication but also exemplifies the county’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence within the community.

Sarah Reilly, Meath Swimming County Manager, expressed immense joy and pride in the exceptional performance of the Meath swimming team, stating, “I am thrilled with how well everyone swam at the National Community Games Finals. Our athletes demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork, making Meath proud.”

Among Meath’s shining stars were the members of Kells Swimming Club, who emerged victorious with two medals. Elaine Daly, Chairperson of Kells Swimming Club, conveyed her delight, saying, “The success of Kells Swimming Club at the National Community Games Finals is a testament to the hard

work and dedication of our swimmers. We are overjoyed to have won two medals, and this achievement reflects the incredible support and coaching they receive from our dedicated team.”

The silver medal was awarded to Philip Daly (Kells SC) in the under-16 front crawl, while the bronze medals were won by Hannah Cassidy (Kells SC)

in the under-14 back crawl and Adhamhnán Ó Siadhail (Summerhill) in the under-10 back crawl.

Expressing his excitement after receiving the medal, Adhamhnán Ó Siadhail said, “I’m thrilled. I didn’t expect to perform so well or have so much fun. I met competitors from all over the country, and I hope to see them again next year.” Meath’s success

at the National Community Games Finals exemplifies the county’s dedication to nurturing athletic talent and promoting community participation in sports.

The achievements of Meath’s swimmers serve as inspiration to aspiring athletes, highlighting the rewards of hard work, determination, and a strong sense of community.

422 UKRAINIAN STUDENTS ENROLLED IN MEATH SCHOOLS

By Matthew Patrick Sharkey The Department of Education has confirmed that 15,258 Ukrainian students are enrolled nationwide in Irish schools, 422 of which are in meath schools. With 9,987 accommodated in primary schools and 5,471 accommodated in post-primary schools. The current data shows an 89% enrolment rate of Ukrainian children aged

5-18 in Ireland. Included in these figures are the 422 Students that are currently enrolled in Meath schools, of which 292 are accommodated in primary schools, and 130 are accommodated in post-primary schools.

Information for parents in Ukraine on accessing school places in Ireland is available on the Gov.ie website.

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12 FUEL ALLOWANCE RECIPIENTS NOW ELIGIBLE FOR FREE HOME UPGRADES

Cllr. Damien O’Reilly is reminding constituents that those in receipt of fuel allowance are now eligible for free home upgrades under the SEAI Fully Funded Energy Upgrades.

Under this new initiative, eligible individuals will have the opportunity to receive a range of home upgrades completely free of charge, empowering them to reduce energy consumption, lower heating costs, and enhance overall comfort. Cllr. O’Reilly said, “I am pleased to highlight the numerous benefits that the Fully Funded Energy Upgrades bring to our communities. This initiative represents a significant stride towards improving the living conditions and energy efficiency of individuals receiving fuel allowance. By offering a range of free home upgrades we are reducing energy consumption, lowering heating costs, and improving people’s overall well-being.

Sustainable Energy Authority

of Ireland (SEAI) experts will assess each property and make recommendations for upgrades based on various factors, including the age, size, existing heating system, and overall condition of the premises.

By tailoring the upgrades to individual properties, the scheme ensures maximum efficiency and benefits for each recipient.

The FREE upgrades offered under this scheme encompass a wide range of energy-saving measures designed to significantly improve the thermal performance of homes. They include: Attic Insulation: Upgrading attic insulation helps retain heat within the property, reducing heat loss through the roof and enhancing overall energy efficiency.

Cavity Wall Insulation: By injecting insulation material into the walls, this measure enhances heat retention, minimizes heat transfer, and improves thermal comfort within the home.

External Wall Insulation: External wall insulation acts as a protective barrier, significantly reducing heat loss and enhancing the energy efficiency of the property.

Internal Wall Insulation: This measure involves adding insulation material to internal walls, improving thermal performance, and

ensuring a more comfortable living environment.

Secondary Work: In addition to major upgrades, the scheme also covers secondary measures such as lagging jackets, draught proofing, and energyefficient lighting. These smaller yet impactful changes contribute to overall energy savings.

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THOUSANDS JOIN LATE NIGHT DARKNESS INTO LIGHT WALK

By Eoin Ryan Thousands in meath came out at night to join Darkness into Light walks in several towns across Meath and raise funds for the suicide and self harm prevention charity Pieta.

Darkness into Light is an annual event starting at 4:15 am and ending as the sun comes up with tens of thousands taking part every year across several countries. Events took place across several locations in Meath including Trim, Navan, Moynalty, Laytown/ Bettystown, and Ratoath.

Darkness into Light began in 2009 with 400 people taking part in a walk in Phoenix Park to raise money for Pieta. It has now grown to become an international event raising millions each year for Pieta house. Events took place in New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, Poland, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Gibraltar, the UK and

South Africa. €4.5 million was raised last year that went towards funding 156 helpline hours, 10,956 crisis counselling sessions and 6,123 therapy sessions.

Pieta said it enables the organisation to provide free suicide prevention, intervention and bereavement support to people of all ages across Ireland. Its 24/7 crisis helpline received almost 100,000 calls and texts and supported close to 700 households bereaved by suicide. Chief Executive of Pieta Stephanie Manahan told RTE that Pieta house “have a team of about 160 therapists and counsellors who are providing in-person

and virtual or on-the-phone therapy, depending on what people need and want.” “we have an incredible bereavement team as well, who are supporting people who have been bereaved from suicide”. 35% of Pieta house clients in 2022 were aged between 18-35 years old and 36% of clients were under 18.

Stephanie Manahan said the charity is “really trying to reach out to our young people in particular, but also older people need to know that we’re here for them”.

“Whether you’re rural Ireland, whether you’re urban Ireland, we’re here for you,”

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SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE: A GOOD (ENOUGH) ADAPTATION

By Robert Richmond

The Super Mario Bros. Movie was a pleasant surprise to me. Illumination is not the most consistent studio and the trailers. Despite the trailer looking gorgeous, it did little to make me excited for its release. Coupled with stunt casting and mixed reviews I was not super hyped to be seeing this, but I actually had a really fun time.

This is a weird movie to talk about because it defies so many rules of traditional plotting, worldbuilding and storytelling. It attempts to use Mario as an audience avatar through the strange world of the Mushroom Kingdom and focuses the first twenty minutes building a relationship between him and Luigi so you feel and care for the brotherly dynamic.The second we get to the Mushroom Kingdom, however, any sense of standard plotting goes out the window, with the film going at such a breakneck speed, relying on

iconography and character traits in a way that would seem completely incoherent if you have not played the Super Mario games. I think this is pretty much a best case scenario for a faithful Mario movie. It hits on all the familiar beats, iconography, characters, locations and tone in a way that does, flaws and all, capture the spirit of the Mario games.

Bowser did nothing wrong, the man can sing, is a hopeless romantic and has the dulcet voice of Jack Black. In all seriousness, Bowser is by far the best part of the movie any time he is on screen, he is a delight. I wish his song was longer but there is always a sequel for more of them. Chris Pratt as Mario is honestly fine as he works for what the movie is going for even if I think Martinet Mario, Mario’s original voice actor, would have been more than capable of carrying this, while Luigi is under-utilised until the finale.

Seth Rogen is Seth Rogen, luckily Seth Rogen fits Donkey Kong’s vibe so it works. Peach has my favourite design

in the movie due to how expressive her animations are.

All of the Mushroom Kingdom stuff looks incredible, there is amazing detail in every part of the world, it is so lovingly recreated and captures the ‘feel’ of with a level of authenticity which was not expected.

Miyamoto was heavily involved in the development so I should not be surprised but I did not expect something this gorgeous from a studio (Illumination) which has not exactly been known for the most stunning vistas or character design. There is a great sense of pace to the action here, it is fast and chaotic, as it should be.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie is messy, colourful, incoherent, exciting, corny, gorgeous, full of awful needle drops, but a great score. It is all over the place yet still incredibly charming and likeable, and I can not think of anything that better reflects Mario as a character than that.

‘FROM A LOW AND QUIET SEA’ SCREENPLAY: A NEW WAY OF ADAPTING NOVELS TO THEATRE

By Eoin Ryan The screenplay version of the novel ‘From a Low and Quiet Sea’ written by Donal Ryan, was mostly a unique experience due to how the story was expressed.

It was somewhat similar to an audiobook, but giving actors more freedom in the delivery of their lines gave it much more expression and depth. Adding facial expressions and small actions such as pressing down on an imaginary accelerator makes it a wholly unique way of telling a story differing greatly from traditional screenplays.

Throughout the story, four characters tell their own individual stories who have their lives intertwined before or during the time their stories take place. (refugee) stuck out the most for how much it differentiated from the others as it takes place mostly outside of Ireland. His mistake is much less morally questionable in comparison to the others and comes from good intentions, but his guilt expressed in the latter half of the story is gut wrenching to witness as he struggles to move on.

What makes each mini story so impactful is how relatable their issues are to a large majority of adult audiences. An unfulfilling

young adult life, a fear of engaging with conflicts, sheltering and being overprotective of a loved one, and emotional neglect altering a person’s moral compass. Most, if not all adults, can relate to at least one of these flaws which are rarely discussed in other forms of media despite how prevalent they are in modern Ireland.

For each character the majority of their actions and emotions are expressed as consequences from past actions and how they were raised to be. They all have their own flaws put on full display, and despite some being more egregious than others, their guilt and current situations make it hard to despise them for it. In some cases, a feeling of guilt can be developed despite them being in the wrong, something few writers and directors are able to evoke.

Its main issue is down to an ending which felt both rushed and unnecessarily forced in an attempt to bring everything together. Instead of wrapping it up neatly with a satisfying conclusion just around the corner, it adds a twist to the ending that only spoils its natural end. There was a point both the writer and director wanted to express to audiences, but they fumble it just before reaching its finish line.

Despite its flaws, both its relatable story and unique method of storytelling alone are enough to cover for them. I would recommend it to most, but especially those interested in how screenplays and storytelling itself can adapt and change in style in the modern era.

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BIRDWATCH IRELAND LAUNCH MEATH BARN OWL SURVEY

Have you seen a Barn Owl, know of a Barn Owl nest site or have installed a Barn Owl nest box in Meath? If the answer is “yes”, then we’d love to hear from you!

Many years ago, before the intensification of agriculture and the widespread deployment of anticoagulant rodenticides, the Barn Owl was a much more common sight throughout Meath. Over recent decades, Barn Owl populations have suffered widespread declines and are now a Red-listed Bird of Conservation Concern in Ireland.

As a top predator and sentinel species for the health of our countryside, these declines in Barn Owl populations caused great worry. The intensification of agricultural practices resulted in the loss of suitable Barn Owl habitats, including a reduction of prey-rich foraging habitat and nesting sites. Alongside these land use changes and the loss of habitat, the increased use and toxicity of anti-coagulant rodenticides, and the expansion of major road networks are likely to be the main factors which have driven the declines in the Barn Owl populations across Ireland.

In recent years, the fortunes of Barn Owls appear to be turning a corner in many parts of Ireland. Barn Owl pairs have moved into nest boxes provided for them

and re-established in old ruins which have not held Barn Owls for many years, especially in the south-west of the country. One of the reasons for this recovery may be due to the range expansion of non-native small mammal species, the Greater White-toothed Shrew and the Bank Vole, both of which are favoured prey of the Barn Owl and are now widespread throughout Munster and parts of Leinster and Connacht.

The Barn Owl survey in Meath aims to establish how Barn Owls are currently faring in the county.

The project, a collaboration between Birdwatch Ireland, the BirdWatch Ireland Meath Branch and Meath County Council Heritage Section, is funded by the Heritage Council and Meath County Council as an action of the County Meath Heritage Plan.

The findings of the survey will be used to ensure the protection of nest sites and to direct targeted conservation efforts which will include the provision of nest boxes to help the local Barn Owl population.

To assist the survey efforts, BirdWatch Ireland are requesting information on Barn Owls in the county.

Alan McCarthy, Barn Owl Research Officer with BirdWatch Ireland, explained the citizen science element of the survey, “It is an unforgettable

experience to glimpse the ghostly white figure of the Barn Owl floating silently through the night sky, or to hear their eerie screeches and peculiar snoring calls.

Anybody who has been lucky enough to experience this for themselves remembers such an encounter, and we are asking people to report this information to us, which will greatly help our survey efforts to locate nest sites and to determine the health of the population in Meath“.

Terrance Cassidy of the Meath BirdWatch Ireland branch said, “We are delighted to be involved in the County Meath Barn Owl

Survey this year and it will be great to get an up-to-date picture of how the Barn Owl population is faring in our county. The survey will give us a good foundation for our future conservation work, including the installation of more Barn Owl nest boxes in the most suitable areas, and where it will benefit Barn Owls the most”.

Loreto Guinan, Heritage Officer with Meath County Council added “We are delighted to be working with Birdwatch Ireland and the local Meath BirdWatch Ireland branch on this survey, which is supported by the Heritage Council and

Meath County Council. We are encouraging the public to get involved and to share their local knowledge and report sightings of Barn Owls in Meath”.

John Lusby of BirdWatch Ireland commented “It is a really interesting and important time to be focusing on Barn Owls in County Meath, it is a county where Barn Owls have not fared well over recent decades and in fact there are very few active nest sites that we are aware of across the county.

However, in recent years it seems that things are

changing, and we will hopefully confirm that this is the case and look towards a brighter future for Barn Owl populations in the county”.

You can help the survey and conservation efforts by reporting any information that you have on Barn Owls in the county by visiting here or visit the BirdWatch Ireland website.

BirdWatch Ireland also stress that Barn Owls are a protected species and can be very sensitive to disturbance, and that potential nest sites should never be approached or interfered with in any way.

17 ANTI-LGBTQ ASSAULT BY BEAUFORT COLLEGE STUDENTS IN NAVAN Christine O’Mahony On the 17th of May, a video went viral on social media showing a teen being viciously attacked by approximately five other teenagers. It was later revealed that they were students from Beaufort College. The student was allegedly beaten up because of his sexual orientation, according to family members.

Gardaí said that the assault was being investigated as a hate crime and that the victim was taken into hospital after suffering a concussion, broken teeth and extensive bruising. It was later reported that

Beaufort College disciplined the students involved. This horrific incident brought great shock especially to the local community and was even condemned by Twitter users residing in England.

It was also noted that this incident took place on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.

“There is speculation that this was a homophobic attack,” a Navan pride representative said about the situation. “While this is unconfirmed, we strongly stand against this type of behavior and ask that our followers do not share this video online. Violent attacks on members of the

LGBTQ+ community are still happening, not just across this country but within our own town. This is why Navan Pride is so important and why we need your support”.

Mayor of Navan, Sinn Féin’s Cllr Eddie Fennessey, said that the community was shocked by the vicious assault and “as the mayor of Navan, I offer the child the support of the people and I ask that the family be given space during this difficult time”.

Fine Gael’s Cllr Yemi Adenuga also condemned the attack, claiming that the video shared online brought her “to tears” as she is a mother of young boys and that “all responsible must be held accountable.

“Gardaí must thoroughly investigate this incident and that the school must address and condemn this and not allow bureaucratic procedures hold things up!

Young people should not be afraid to go to school or feel unsafe in & out of school”.

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‘THERE ARE NOW MORE REASONS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO EMIGRATE THAN REASONS WHY THEY SHOULD STAY’

By Eoin Ryan After visiting London there is nothing more obvious than its pure scale in proportion to anything seen in Ireland.

Every ten minutes there is a historical structure or skyscraper multiple times larger than anything seen in Ireland.

Its night clubs teem with life late until half three in the morning and finding work is as easy as finding a sign outside a front window. So why, even after Brexit made a dent in their economy, is it easier to find a place to

rent here than anywhere in Ireland.

The average rent is slightly more than what it is in Dublin, £2,500 ( €2880) a month compared to €2,324, but what it provides more than makes up for the jump in price. First off, their transport is both quicker and cheaper than Busaras while also being on schedule more times than not, a luxury we do not have. Second, I can grab a drink late into the night without having to scrounge for a taxi among massive crowds flooding out

at the same time. Third, and most importantly, there are more cheap rentals, meaning less time spent in queueing for house viewings and getting rejected by landlords.

As each day passes where I am stuck at the family home, that part of my brain telling me to just pack up and leave Ireland gets louder and louder. So many people I know are already gone somewhere else with young Irish adults making a stereotype out of moving to Australia. It is becoming

more and more obvious to not just young adults, but most Irish residents, that there are now more reasons for young people to emigrate than reasons why they should stay. The worst part is that there is no end to this in sight, no guarantee moving out is possible before hitting 30 without blowing my savings.

How can I become a proper adult stuck at my parents home despite owning the very paper you are reading right now? I have been an adult for 5 years now but

I still feel like someone in their late teens struggling for their independence.

So the more important question is: Why shouldn’t I move? In no way does it have to be London as well.

Anywhere speaking English paying enough that rent is affordable can be treated as an option. The only reason I stay is my stubbornness sticking to reporting jobs instead of giving in and take any job available in a better place to live.

More and more are leaving each year, seeing no hope and no chance of moving out of their parents home. Every house tour for somewhere at least half decent at a reasonable rental price gets flooded with applications before even an hour passes and a queue extending half the street just for a house viewing.

I am 23, a college graduate now co-running a paper, unable to move out and trying to act like this is how things are meant to be. It is either that or search months for a rental which will most likely be too expensive for me to build up any savings. It doesn’t help that every pint bought makes a miniature dent in my wallet. Need to pay for a taxi most of the time as well because having decent public transport at night is still another ten years away if they don’t

delay it another time. Now London is far from perfect especially after Brexit, Covid, their own housing crisis and a myriad of other issues the United Kingdom have gone through. Despite this, however, it is still somehow a better option for many my age, and that does not even include everywhere else in the UK. Personal attachments and Irish culture seem to be the only good reasons for staying as prices and services seem to only get worse and worse.

Doing research for stories lately can be a slog of checking what is becoming more expensive or which service is struggling due to a myriad of reasons. Going through all this would not be so bad if there was even a trace of reassurance that it will be sorted in the near future, but there rarely is lately. It makes me question why I should even think about waiting it all out because there is no end in sight to most of Ireland’s woes.

The thought of moving away has been lingering since graduation as living gets more and more expensive in Ireland, even when compared to other EU countries. Moving halfway across the world is now becoming a better choice than living in our own country.

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