EIRGRID IN CONFLICT WITH MEATH LANDOWNERS OVER NORTH-SOUTH INTERCONNECTOR PROJECT
Eirgrid is to seek legal rights to enter landowners’ fields and send out Compulsory Purchase Orders to begin developing the North-South Interconnector electrical line.
Eirgrid recently contacted over 250 landowners directly despite them requesting that all communications regarding the situation be sent to the North East Pylon Pressure Campaign (NEPPC).
“It is further evidence of their belligerence and their failure to properly engage with the local community,” Meath Sinn Féin TD Darren O’Rourke said. “Indeed, it displays, yet again, an unwillingness to engage on the substantive issues. The move is sure to cause further consternation locally.”
“For once and for all they need to engage with local communities to find a way forward to deliver this project in a way that is acceptable. A solution is possible and it is surely underground. It is clear that the community and its representatives in NEPPC are willing to play their part. Government and Eirgrid must step up and do the same.” The conflict revolves around
the issue of whether or not the cables should be above or underground as the current plan using above ground cables is more damaging for landowners in areas affected by this.
The north-south interconnector project is 104 km long passing through 400 land holdings. A further 1,050 holdings are within 500 metres of the proposed line.
Eirgrid needs 70% of landowners involved on their side to begin the project which can be done through either consent or a compulsory purchase order (CPO) where they will forcefully acquire the land without the owner’s consent. Many landowners have opposed the plan and have taken unsuccessful judicial reviews against the project.
The NEPPC is opposed to an above ground interconnector line and proposed an underground cable along public roads. Representatives say Eirgrid has been “grossly negligent” due to their refusal to consider undergrounding the line an option.
Landowners part of the cam-
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paign are concerned about the damage heavy machinery used in the project could do to laneways and their fields.
The idea of whether the northsouth interconnection should be above or underground has been assessed three times by both Eirgrid and international experts. A government-commissioned International Expert
would have to travel across and how important this line is for the communities involved.
Eirgrid CEO Fintan Slye said undergrounding the project would cost an additional half a billion euro to complete.
“Undergrounding is three times more expensive,” Fintan Slye said. “As a State body, this is a cost that is not acceptable
Commission’s report was made in 2013 and 2018 which found that an overhead electrical line was the most appropriate option. This was also found to be the best option in another independent review done in 2023. Eirgrid have stated the electric grid can not go underground due to the distance that power
and cannot be passed on to the consumer. The public should not have to pay for the cost of undergrounding when there is no enhancement of service.”
Currently, there is only one interconnector line going between Eirgrid in Ireland and SONI in Northern Ireland. The electrical current levels pres-
ent are far below secure and sustainable due to a rise in demand. The amount of power is currently being restricted to limit the possibility of issues occurring and any problems on the only available interconnector could lead to widespread power failures.
Eirgrid believes this project will remove the risk of a possible widespread power failure, make the electrical grid more efficient, remove restrictions on cross-border flows of electricity, and provide more renewable energy.
“The Commission is not recommending any solution as such,” the 2011 commissioned report stated. “However, it recommends against fully undergrounding using an AC [alternating current] cable solution.”
They hope construction can begin on the interconnector next year despite negotiations still ongoing on deciding where the first pylons will be built.
Padraig O’Reilly of the North East Pylon Pressure campaign said the company has not meaningfully engaged with local communities regarding the
project.
“Eirgrid continues to ignore and treat local communities as non-entities in this project. But it has never engaged with local communities. In fact, the latest engagement from Eirgrid has been a series of letters threatening a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process if they do not sign up.”
A spokesperson for Eirgrid said teams of agricultural liaison officers have met with landowners “on a one-to-one basis to discuss associated compensation payments being offered, and to directly answer all related queries.”
Minister for Environment Eamon Ryan said the government supports “whatever proposals are put forward by Eirgrid,” in order to make sure the project takes place.
“It has been under consideration for 20 years. We have looked at it upside down and inside out and it now needs to be built.
Minister Ryan also expressed his support for a CPO process or any other mechanism possible.
MEATH SHOPPERS RECEIVE €445,000 IN DEPOSIT RETURN SCHEME VOUCHERS IN ALDI STORES
€445,000 in Deposit Return Scheme vouchers across seven Aldi stores in Meath have been redeemed since the scheme’s launch.
One million items were returned in Meath during June of this year and 2.6 million since the scheme’s launch with each Aldi store processing on average 374,000 items and over €63,000 in returned deposits.
There has been a steady increase in the number of items returned across the country with 75 million containers being returned in May, more than February, March, and April combined.
Only 2 million bottles were returned in February when the scheme began. This jumped to 20 million in March, 50 million in April and 78 million in May. This has increased again to 90 million in June, 3 million deposited per day. This is more than half of the estimated 5 million cans and bottles sold every day in Ireland.
“We expect to see this continue as we move out of the transition period,” Re-turn chief executive Ciaran Foley said.
Shops have recently been banned from selling drinks in non-returnable plastic
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deposit boxes and that staff need time to empty out the machines.
Jason Carolan, Plastics & Packaging Manager at Aldi Ireland said: “Customers have redeemed more than €7 million in cash and
bottles and cans and will face a fine of up to €5,000 if they fail to comply. All aluminium drink cans or bottles made from PET plastic between 150ml and three litres must have the Re-turn logo and barcode.
Customers have made complaints regarding the scheme due to queues at
vouchers at ALDI’s 161 stores, ensuring that more than 42 million items have been returned for recycling through the scheme. We’re proud to play our part in supporting and operating this scheme, which is a key part of helping to ensure more sustainable and circular economic activity.
FIVE MEATH SCHOOLS SHORTLISTED FOR EU ENERGY RETROFIT PROGRAMME
Five schools in County Meath were shortlisted to become part of an EU energy retrofit programme included in a €81 million EU funding package.
Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa in Kilcloon, Scoil Naomh Bride in Batterstown, Rathbeggan National School in Ratoath, Soil Nais Aitinn Bhui in Navan and SN Naomh Pádraig in Slane are the five Meath schools part of the energy retrofit programme shortlist. All schools involved were part of a pilot phase of the Schools Energy Inventory project which was supported by the European Investment Bank.
They will be given a retrofit which includes the installation of heat pumps, LED lighting, electric car chargers, and mechanical heat recovery ventilation with upgrades to the fabric and airtightness of the schools.
“I’m delighted five schools in this district have been shortlisted,” Cllr Caroline O’Reilly said.
“I’ll be lobbying Norma (Foley) and the Department of Education to try and get them on the final list. This retrofit
will drag down the schools cost of energy and keep our kids warm.”
40 schools across five counties in Ireland are part of the energy retrofit programme shortlist which is part of a
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“It is really positive to see the results of the extensive collaboration between my department, the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform and the Commission in having this formally adopted through the
€81 million EU funding package. This is the largest of five investments part of Ireland’s funding allocation for its National Recovery and Resilience Plan. It is also a portion of the €240 million Ireland secured under the REPowerEU programme, the EU plan to reduce dependence on fossil fuels supplied by Russia, increase EU energy supply independence and security, and accelerate the green transition.
National Recovery and Resilience Plan,” Minister for Education Norma Foley said.
“We’re not there yet but this is very positive,” O’Reilly continued.
“School buildings throughout the country are crying out for cash for energy enhancements and retrofitting so to get five schools in East Meath on the shortlist is good going at this stage. ”
22 NEW SPECIAL CLASSES IN MEATH FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR
22 special classes will be available for students in county Meath for the next school year starting this September.
Each special class will have six pupils, one teacher and a special needs assistant.
Over 375 new special classes will be brought in for Sep -
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will be a total of 3,000 special classes for over 20,000 students in Ireland for the next school year.
“We now have more than 40,000 professionals working in special education –over 21,000 special needs assistants and over 19,000 special education teachers,” Meath TD MInister for state
cation.
“I know that there are still challenges delivering school places for children with additional educational needs in their nearest school. It is my absolute aspiration that it will, in time, come to a point where every child with additional educational needs will be able to attend their local school and that there will be
tember for approximately 2,300 children with building works being carried out to accommodate this.There
Thomas Byrne said. “That is the highest number of SNAs and teachers ever working in the area of special edu-
no distance for them to travel. We are making progress in that respect, but there is more to be done.”
MEATH AND LOUTH ARTS OFFICES ANNOUNCE THE SUCCESSFUL RECIPIENTS FOR THE AGE & OPPORTUNITY TYRONE GUTHRIE RESIDENCY AWARDS
Meath and Louth Arts Offices are pleased to announce the successful recipients for their Age & Opportunity Tyrone Guthrie Residency Awards for 2024. In partnership with Age & Opportunity, the awards aim to support professional artists aged 50+ to develop their practice by creating time and space to think and reflect on their work and bolster their peer network. The awards were opened for applications in May, and two artists (one based in Meath and one in
Louth) have been selected to receive a funded weeklong residency in the Tyrone Guthrie Centre, including a small stipend.
Meath Arts Office is delighted to announce Ronan Leahy as the Meath winner of the 2024 Meath/Louth Age & Opportunity Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency Award.
Louth Arts Office has also announced Dara Higgins as the Louth winner of the 2024 Meath/Louth Age &
Opportunity Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency Award. Meath and Louth Arts offices are delighted to partner with Age and Opportunity for these bursary awards.
Age & Opportunity is a national organisation that provides a range of opportunities for older people who want to get more involved in arts and culture, sport and physical activity, civic engagement and personal development.
AUTISM AWARENESS MARATHON
Comedian Rory O’Connor will run the Dublin City Marathon for Autism Awareness in aid of the Irish Autism charity AsIAm. He is passionate about raising awareness and encouraged dads of autistic children across Ireland to not only train with him for the marathon but to also create a space where they can discuss their experiences.
From his conversations with the autistic community, Rory said the mothers are always the ones to worry about their children. This made him want to reach out to other dads to let them know that they are not alone and that they can support each other. “I wanted to reach out to other dads in Ireland to let them know they’re not alone in their fears and give a sense of pride in our amazing children. This is an op-
portunity for men to come together, build a bond and support each other.” Before the marathon, Rory will generate content for his social media platforms, documenting his journey, and raising further awareness for autism.
CEO of AsIAm, Adam Harris expressed his support for Rory and stated his efforts shall have a significant impact.
“Rory’s commitment to raising awareness and fostering a supportive community for fathers of autistic children is very much needed, his efforts will undoubtedly make a significant impact, encouraging more open conservations and a stronger sense of unity.”
For more information on this event visit www.asiam.ie or @rorysstoriesofficial. (for online only)
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BALLYBIN ROAD DEVELOPMENT
The Ballybin Road is scheduled to undergo a largescale high-density development that will include major construction on main street onto R125 and will cause a three-year disruption between 2025 and 2027. There will be a change of roundabout to a signaling system at the busiest junctions (Ratoath College entrance
children and other residents. It will result in increased traffic due to more housing planned at Ballybin and outer relief road location. The lane shut down will take place operating one lane for inbound, outbound traffic and buses onto the R125 and St Paul’s school and Ratoath College causing chaos in Ratoath on a narrow road
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proposed realigned Ballybin Road to serve the bisected residential site. The total site contains a proposed residential development site and infrastructural development site for road and related works, water services and open spaces.
The new junction arrangement will make way for a
changes August 2024) and continued signaling past Moulden Bridge.
A bus stop is to be moved onto the main street impacting the lane of traffic going out onto R125 and safety of
The proposed road infrastructure works include road markings, traffic signals, traffic signage, footpaths, and cycle infrastructure. It also proposes new multi modal accesses onto the
proposed realignment of the southern section of the existing Ballybin Road as the Northern arm of the new signalized junction and a revised entrance for the existing dwelling to the north-east of the site at Ballybin Road.
STEWARTS CARE REGIONAL EQUINE THERAPY HUB IN KILCLOON, ARE FINALLY OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS!
Just three months since an impressive demonstration of the Horseboy Method, Stewarts Care Regional Equine Therapy Hub in Kilcloon, Co Meath are finally open for Applications!
Dunboyne based Cllr Caroline O’Reilly said “I am delighted
to interested parties. Word has spread like wildfire and I have been inundated with queries from happy parents. One parent remarked on their experience of the Horse Boy Method at another centre and could see the impact of the form of therapy on their child compared to a regular les-
idenced based positive outcomes and works on physical, emotional, neurological, sensory, and psychosocial goals through repatterning the brain and calming the nervous system. With over 800 planned therapy sessions a week, Stewarts Care will be accessible to children and adults,
to see such a brilliant service on our doorstep for Children and Adults with Autism. I have kept in close contact with the coordinators of the service about progress and this week I was asked by Stewarts to circulate the application form
son. It’s an amazing addition to therapy services that are in dire need of resources and I am really looking forward to supporting them and watching them grow.”
Horse Boy Therapy has ev-
special schools, disability providers, CDNTs, mainstream schools with ASD classes.
The application form can be accessed from Stewarts Care by email at equinetherapyhub@stewartscare.ie
MOYLAGH JFK 50 MILE CHALLANGE CHEQUE PRESENTATION TO THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY , LARCC & PALLITIVE CARE
The Moylagh JFK 50Mile Challenge held their cheque presentation at McEvoy’s Pub of Drumone on Saturday. This year marks the 13th year of the challenge, and it was a remarkable success with over 700 participants, of which more than 180 completed the 50-mile challenge.
Chairman Johnny Guirke expressed his thanks to the entire committee, volunteers, participants, and generous donors who made this event possible. This years amount raised was “It was a huge amount of money raised, and we are incredibly thankful to everyone who contributed in any way. Your support means the world to us and to those who will benefit from these funds,”Guirke stated.
Guirke to Sara for the Irish Cancer Society - 16,385 presented by committee member Pierce Grall to Bernie McHugh for LARCC
cup for the team with the most money raised and this was received by Deirdre Coyle.
The overall amount
OVER 7,000 CHILDREN REFERRED TO TUSLA IN LOUTH/MEATH AREA LAST YEAR
Tusla’s Child Protection and Welfare Service were sent 7,261 referrals in the Louth/Meath area last year.
1,874 children were referred to Family Support services and 134 young people and adults were also in receipt of aftercare services in 2023.
nell for Palliative Care
During the ceremony, individual cheques were presented to the key beneficiaries: - 131,077.00 presented by committee member Mary
The Sadie Fitzsimons cup was presented by the Fitzsimons family to Conor Madden from Cork who was the individual with the most money raised and the McDonnell family presented Simply Baked of Tullamore the
has raised 1,363,971.00 which is a testament to the dedication and generosity of the community and participants. The funds raised will go a long way in supporting the invaluable work these organizations do.
There were 91,924 referrals across Ireland, an 11 percent increase from 2022 including 47,260 children referred to family support services, a new record for Tusla.
5,615 children were in care at the end of 2023 with 90 percent in foster care and TESS (Tusla Education Support Service) worked with 4,796 children.
Tusla Chairperson Pat Rabbitte said the agency has grown significantly while adapting to this increase in demand of its services, but are finding the growing complexities of their work challenging.
This includes referrals to specialised services and supports, such as Special Care and Separated Chil-
dren Seeking International Protection.
“The unique area of Special Care has severely stretched the capacity of
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the Agency in terms of both accommodation and staff during the year. One of several developments not foreseen in 2014 was the scale of the global movement of people. Notwithstanding improved economic circumstances the need for our services has continued to expand.
“New and sometimes complex responsibilities have been allocated to Tusla arising from reforms introduced by government. For example, Birth Information and Tracing, following on from the legislation, has absorbed a great deal of patient work hours.
“This year, Tusla celebrates its tenth anniversary as a more confident Agency, conscious of areas that need improvement and resolutely determined to continue our comprehensive reform programme.”
ByDanielDoyle
7TH MEATH DUNSHAUGHLIN SCOUT GROUP TAKE LEAD IN BIODIVERSITY PROJECT
Local landowner and naturalist Evan Newell has granted the 7th Meath Scouts Group permission to use 7.5 acres of his land, located behind the Dunshaughlin GAA club, to create a woodland and habitat that supports biodiversity and wildlife.
The project began on a positive note in March when Dunshaughlin’s scouting community united to plant an impressive 5,000 trees in a single day.
Using a method known as the “Miyawaki Forest Method”. This technique replicates a dense, multi-layered forest by planting trees in close proximity. This makes the trees to grow upward more rapidly as they compete for light.
The technique greatly boosts biodiversity, resulting in mature, diverse forests within just ten years. The selected tree mixes feature over 15 native species including oak, hawthorn, and scots pine.
These trees were provided by Reforest Nation which in-
troduced the revolutionary “Miyawaki Forest Method” to Ireland. Reforest Nation, founded by 23-year-old wildlife biologist Gearóid McEvoy from Co Louth, is a social enterprise that has planted over one million trees in Ireland to date.
The latest boost to the scouts’ project comes from The
Hare’s Corner Biodiversity Initiative which has pledged support through a custom ecologist-produced “Plan for Nature” for the Dunshaughlin site. The Hare’s Corner assists landowners and community groups in creating more space for nature.
Bláithín Crampton, leading
the initiative on behalf of the Scouts Group, says the partnership is a great fit. “As a keen bird watcher and environmentalist, Evan Newell understands that it is diversity of plants and habitats that helps stabilize ecosystems” Crampton said.
Bláithín said that involving the community in developing the woodland is a great way to ensure its future protection and care. “We want our scouts to understand that if we build the habitats the wildlife will turn up. Scouting aims to do this by providing experiential learning…Through understanding and first-hand experience the kids will care about the other species we share our planet with”.
Alongside a traditional woodland, the scout group hopes to create a wildlife pond and an apple orchard. They are currently planting native Irish bluebell seeds in pots which they will transplant into their newly forming woodland in the spring.
The team also plans to build a state-of-the-art, environ-
mentally friendly den on the land, potentially including a “Nature Room” or other applicable provisions, pending planning considerations and local councillor support.
To make all this great work happen, the 7th Meath Scouts Group is appealing to local businesses for support.
Bláithín underlined they want to give kids the chance to “learn and grow along with the woodlands”. The Scout Group feels that “this is a great way to give back to our community… and give our scouts a responsibility to mould their environment for the benefit of all”.
Dunshaughlin Scout Group has turned 42 years old this year. Bláithín emphasized that getting this far “has taken the efforts of many great scouters past and present”. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank them and assure them that together, we can continue to nurture a love for nature and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and scouters alike”.
ST. MARY’S SPECIAL SCHOOL FUNDRAISER IS A SUCCESS
ByMatthewSharkey
St. Mary’s Special School has raised over €3000 through their Fashion For All event to pay for future equipment to help their students.
The Fashion For All event was “an inclusive fashion showcasing sensory and adaptable clothing as well as the latest trends from local stores,” according to St.Mary’s social media post regarding the event.
dboyne Hotel in Navan, and all proceeds will go towards equipment and other items that are not covered by the HSÉ and Department of Education funding. Over 20 pupils and staff modelled clothing from accessible brands such as Keeks, Special Kids Company, Fauna, Comfort Clothing and Sully & Juno.
Additional Clothing was provided by multiple local shops including River Is-
The School based in Johnstown will soon be moving into a brand new building with more staff, brand new classrooms and new facilities for the pupils.
Their show took place on Saturday 23rd June at the Ar-
land, Dunnes Stores, Pamela Scott, Name It, Skechers and Geoghegans.There were musical performances by One Voice Kells & Drogheda Musical Society and a dance/ gymnastics performance by two pupils from Fit Kid.
MEATH BOXER CAIN LEWIS EYES CELTIC TITLE AFTER HIS RECENT WIN
Meath boxer Cain Lewis hopes that his win in his eighth professional fight in Dublin on Friday 26th July will get him a Celtic title bout this year. Lewis beat Yorkshireman Jake Pollard on points over six rounds.
“The fight on Friday was brilliant,’ Lewis said. “I’m happy with my performance getting a further six rounds under my belt. I gained a lot from the fight and can’t wait to get back out again. I’m ready to fight for titles now, so fingers crossed I can get an opponent and start climbing the international rankings. I’m ready to fight for titles but need someone to step up and box for a title. I aim to go all the way and become a world champion.”
Lewis is trained by Vernon Carroll, father of Jono Carroll, and has been since starting 2010. “I’ve trained under Vernon since I was seven right up through the amateurs and now as a professional. I was with him through the amateurs and now in the professional ranks. He’s believed in me
and helped me win six of my seven paid bouts with one draw. I won two national amateur titles, two European medals, seven county titles and two International Box Club titles and represented Ireland in competitions throughout Ireland and numerous occasions. I joined the paid ranks three years ago aged eighteen and my first pro bout was in Belfast when I defeated Nicaraguan Carlos Arroyo at the Feile na Phobail with eight thousand watching. That was a night to remember.”
Growing up Lewis, 21, enjoyed watching Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. beat their opponents. Until they become established as major contenders for title fights, boxing prospects like Lewis face the challenge of selling tickets to their bouts and getting sponsors.
“I’m grateful to my sponsors for their generous assistance which allows me to train full time. Without them I’d have no boxing career and no chance of bringing championship belts home.”
DUNSHAUGHLIN COMMUNITY CENTRE RECEIVES €60K GRANT FOR SOLAR PANELS
Dunshaughlin Community Centre CLG were delighted to receive notification from Meath County Council that they had been successful in our application for funding under strand 1 of the Community Climate Action Programme. The grant was for €60,413.01 towards the installation of solar panels generating a forecasted annual yield of 50kWh per annum and a CO” saving of 14 tonnes of CO2 savings per annum.
Our application related to the installation of Solar Panels on the south facing Kingspan roof of Dunshaughlin Community Centre CLG.
Since 2013, after having an energy survey completed by Aramark Environmental Service, supported by Meath Partnership, The Centre has implemented as finances permitted, quite a lot of the recommendations such as Boiler Housework (more energy efficient system installed), Main Hall lighting replaced tungsten fittings with energy efficient LED units, gym lighting
upgraded to LED, sensor controls in stores, changing rooms etc. When replacing gym equipment in our Community Gym, Peak Fitness, choosing ION battery powered units as opposed to active current units.
The final major item recommended by Aramark was the installation of photovoltaic (Solar) panels to generate electricity and solar collectors to serve a 1000 litre cylinder for summer use for heating hot water for 14 showers. Aramark estimated the cost being in the region of €79k at the time. The project while addressing the theme of solar energy also addressed the retrofitting of community energy upgrades and environmental return.
Having sought quotes from five suppliers, and each one addressing the project in different ways, but the common theme is that the size of system required is able at a minimum to yield circa 48kWh annually. Our current annual usage of electricity is circa 64kWh.
This would reduce our requirement from the grid by 75% annually.
The savings both financially and environmentally would be substantial to our Community Centre. The estimated annual CO2 savings is 14 Tonnes.
This project is extremely achievable due to the location of the Community Centre, the south facing Kingspan roof, the management team in place and the preferred quote which has a performance management software suit to report real time on panel performance. This project will deliver Co2 savings and energy costs which will benefit the Community Centre for years.
The project must be completed within 18 months with the grant period being from 2/9/24 to 2/3/26.
The Community Centre would hope to have the project completed by July 2025.
FARE REDUCTIONS OF MEATH PUBLIC TRANSPORT DELAYED
ByMatthewSharkey
The National Transport Authority has confirmed that public transport fare reductions in the new Dublin Commuter Zone will not go ahead in September, and has been delayed until the start of 2025.
The Fare Reduction plan aims to change the substan-
EMPLOYEES LAID OFF ARE TO BENEFIT FROM NEW LEGISLATION LINKING JOBSEEKER’S BENEFIT TO A WORKER’S PREVIOUS EARNINGS, PAYING THEM 60% OF THEIR GROSS WEEKLY WAGE CAPPED AT €450
“This delay is incredibly frustrating and, make no mistake about it, it could have and should have been avoided,” Sinn Féin TD for Meath East Darren O’Rourke said.
O’Rourke had said delays are apparently “associated
tial difference in fare prices in the Dublin Commuter Zone, such as Irish Rail fares between Balbriggan and Gormanston, Laytown and Drogheda.
The Irish Rail Dublin Commuter line from Gormanston to Connolly is €7.55, whereas, on the same line from Balbriggan, it is €4.45 despite the stations being three minutes apart.
with Leap Card technology, gating, validation and “back office” issues.”
“This news will come as a blow to commuters in Meath.
The NTA, Irish Rail and Luas must do everything they can to deliver these changes in the quickest possible time frame. Every day counts.”
Employees laid off are to benefit from new legislation linking Jobseeker’s Benefit to a worker’s previous earnings, paying them 60% of their gross weekly wage capped at €450.
A SIPTU spokesperson said the payment “comes into line” with other EU member states, stating that Belgium is 91% of gross income and other EU countries have similar welfare benefits.
“This Bill will see a radical change to the unemployment benefit system that exists in Ireland for all workers that find themselves placed on layoff,” SIPTU Sector Organiser John Regan said.
“This will provide for close to double that of the current rate, of €232. The new rate will apply if the worker is on layoff for not more than nine months.”
This new welfare benefit cap is almost double the current rate at €232 a week and
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will apply to workers laid off for less than nine months. Terms will apply on a sliding scale to €300 over nine months.
Adrian Kane of SIPT said the Tara Mines campaign had a significant role in this legislation being passed but “Unfortunately, it is too late to benefit them in their extended layoff situation.”
“The impact that these layoffs had on the local economy in County Meath and the wider northeast region also contributed to the change in the Government’s approach. The financial hardship the miners and 650 workers at the mine had to endure which is still been felt by workers should have been addressed much earlier.”
Tara Mines workers have recently received letters detailing their return to work with some being notified of redeployment, despite SIP-
NATIONAL HERITAGE WEEK EVENTS ANNOUNCED FOR MIDDLE OF AUGUST
The Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, TD launched the 25th edition of National Heritage Week ahead of the event taking place across the country from the 17th to 25th August 2024.
The 2024 theme is on Connections, Routes, and Networks which is focused on exploring how we are linked through our heritage, be it from physical routes such as roads, canals, and trails to cultural ties through family, pastimes, history and traditions.
There will be many free events meaning they are accessible for anyone interested in Irish culture and heritage. These include recurring events such as Heritage At Play where you can build an Irish shopfront with Lego, Wonders of the Wild to help you learn about Ireland’s wildlife, and Family fun days that have a wide range of activities taking place.
Meath residents can also discover the archeology of
Oldbridge Estate on August 24th, Discover the importance of the River Boyne to the Battle of the Boyne (August 17th), join a group walk on Girley Bog (August 17th) or join a wide range of events across County Meath.
“National Heritage Week excels in uniting Ireland’s built, natural, and cultural heritage into one vibrant festival,” Minister Malcolm Noonan TD said. “Over the past 25 years, it has significantly raised awareness and appreciation of our heritage, fostering more informed perspectives, changing hearts and minds, and ensuring the preservation of our incredible resources.”
“Our volunteers and community groups are the foundation of this wonderful festival of heritage,” Heritage Council Chairperson Martina Moloney said.
“Their dedication and generosity ensure the success of Heritage Week, offering diverse and enriching experiences for anybody with
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even a passing interest in heritage. The invaluable support of local authority heritage and biodiversity officers, who work tirelessly behind the scenes, also cannot be overstated. I want to thank all these contributors for the work they do not just in the run up to and during National Heritage Week, but all year round.”
Other notable events outside of Meath include An old-fashioned steam train journey from Dublin to Kilkenny on 18th of August and the Festival of Lost Skills in Co. Clare on the 17th.
National Heritage Week takes place every year to celebrate Ireland’s heritage with thousands of events and activities taking place throughout the country.
A Heritage Week supplement will be published in the Irish Times on the 16th August for anyone looking for a more in-depth look at specific events and the stories of the people behind them.
MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL HAS SECURED €7 MILLION UNDER THRIVE
Meath County Council has secured €7 million in THRIVE Funding, the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme 2024, under Strand 2 for the development of Navan Cultural Quarter: Community Hub & County Archive, formerly known as St Patrick’s Classical School.
The project consists of the conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of a vacant and derelict building, the former St Finian’s Seminary Study Hall (and former St Patrick’s Classical School), an important Protected Structure in the heart of Navan. The design for St Finian’s Seminary Study Hall is to convert this building into a new Community Hub and County Archive. The surrounding public realm will be restored in line with the natural gradient of the space to create a natural amphitheatre and along with the renovated handball alley will provide outdoor space for cultural and artistic performances and events and will provide linkages to other cultural buildings in its proximity and the historic core town. The community hub will be
used for community meetings, workshops, classes and training and it will also act as a community exhibition space. The County archive will provide an appropriate space to store his-
free of charge. Welcoming the funding, Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive of Meath County Council, said: “I am delighted to welcome €7 million of funding under THRIVE.
the design for St Finian’s Seminary Study which was co-created by the citizens and stakeholders in Navan in line with the Town Centre First Framework. This transformative, integrated
work, and visit. The funding will support our work in adapting and reusing a vacant and derelict heritage building and allow us to create a beautiful, sustainable, and inclusive space to
torical records, photographic collections and industrial heritage collections which will be available for academics, schools, historians, archaeologists and citizens
Following significant citizen and stakeholder engagement, the exploration, preservation, conservation, and potential end uses were workshopped. This led to
urban regeneration project will greatly enhance the town’s social, cultural, economic, heritage, and environmental assets, making it an even better place to live,
improve the quality of life of our citizens.”
Cathaoirleach Cllr. Sharon Tolan added: “I would like to commend all involved in the
funding application and its success. This funding will make a massive difference. This new community hub and County archive will create a permanent, designated, inclusive archive space, available free of charge, which will create new opportunities for the people of Meath and beyond to connect with their history. It will also provide an exciting new space with huge potential for community, civic, and creative engagement with the citizens of Navan.”
THRIVE, the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme is awarded under Ireland’s two European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Regional Programmes. THRIVE was developed by the Southern Regional Assembly and the Northern & Western Regional Assembly, working closely with the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage. The funding aims to allow Local Authorities and citizens to reimagine and revitalise town centres through the renovation and adaptive reuse of vacant or derelict heritage buildings in public control or ownership.
PLANS LODGED FOR A NEW PRIMARY CARE CENTRE IN NAVAN
Dublin-based firm Foxtrot Investment 2011 Limited has submitted plans, which if passed will construct one of the largest facilities of its kind in Ireland.
The facility will contain a GP surgery, pharmacy, dental practice, Community Mental Health Team, Audiology department, primary care treatment rooms, Mental Health Service Unit and an Orthodon-
tics Department if these plans are put in place. The rest of the building will include a canteen, reception areas, toilets, staff changing facilities and external spaces.
Plans also include 200 car parking spaces which include 20 EV charging spaces and 10 accessible spaces as well as 30 bicycle parking spaces accessed from the inter-
ByMatthewSharkey
nal estate road branching north from the N51 Kells Road.
The total gross floor space is 7,215 sqm ànd is located on a 1.03-hectare site, A final decision is expected to be made by Meath County Meath by August 22nd.
A final decision is expected to be made by Meath County Meath by 22nd August.
The charming seaside village Laytown is the perfect spot to enjoy the Summer days. Laytown is an area where you could spend hours with your children, have a romantic day out with your partner or solely read a book while watching the sunset on the
LAYTOWN BEACH & PLAYGROUND
towards Balbriggan as well as up through Bettystown and through to Clogherhead. During low tide, the beach forms an ideal pathwalk that stretches for kilometres and during high tide the beach shrinks significantly. The town offers a great pathway
water and nature’s beauty. The sounds of waves spilling over each other creates a soothing ambiance making this an ideal spot for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy basking on the beach, get some exercise on the cycle lanes or enjoy the walkways
Laytown, the orange and pink hues reflect in the water creating a picturesque scene which can be found on many paintings and photographs. Families with children flock to the beach and local playground only a few feet from the beach. One of the more
people in Ireland. This year the races will take place on Monday the 16th of September. The Laytown races are not only a sporting event but also a tradition upheld by the community.
Laytown is conveniently located only 30km from Dub-
ground. There are also a few restaurants and cafes, along with an ice cream shop, offering a variety of options for those looking to spend the whole day exploring the beach.
Laytown Beach in County Meath combines natural
horizon.
The Laytown beach extends over 11km and encompasses the whole coastline of County Meath. This serene coastal location attracts
around the beach that is elevated for those who do not wish to dip their feet into the water or wet sand. On this pathway you will meet a 6 foot sculpture named the
while eating an ice cream from the local shop which all overlook the Irish Sea.
Laytown is not just a place for relaxation, but also a hub for activities like horse riding, cycling, jogging, watersports and photographing amongst many others. Sunsets are definitely a sight to see in
exciting events held at Laytown Beach are the annual horse races. The horse racing event dates back to 1868 and is the only beach horse race under the Rules of Racing. The galloping horses with the sea as a back ground attracts thousands of spectators each year and is definitely a highlight for the
lin and it makes the beach a perfect day trip destination. The area is well serviced with regular local trains and buses connecting to Laytown. There is ample parking for those looking to travel in
beauty, a vibrant atmosphere and a vibrant sporting culture. Whether you are seeking a tranquil escape into the countryside or an adventurous day out, Laytown Beach has something for everyone.
ters and serene walkways
MINISTER O’DONOVAN ANNOUNCES €4.5 MILLION FUNDING FOR FIRST COHORT OF NATIONAL CHALLENGE FUND FINALISTS
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD, has today announced the first 9 teams to receive Grow Phase funding under the €65 million National Challenge Fund – a competitive programme aiming to deliver solutions for major environmental and societal issues.
Funded by the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility, the Fund calls on researchers to identify problems related to Ireland’s Green Transition and Digital Transformation and work directly with those most affected to solve them.
“I look forward to following the progress these teams of leading researchers make over the next 12 months as they continue to progress their projects that will unlock the transformational potential of digital technologies and support Ireland’s commitment to becoming climate neutral. I am working to ensure continuity on funding calls previously run by SFI and IRC over the coming months, as Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland commences its operations.”
Since its launch, 96 teams have been funded through the National Challenge Fund, and today’s announcement sees the first nine teams become finalists in this competitive funding model. The nine teams se-
Minister O’Donovan said “I am pleased to announce the first cohort of the National Challenge Fund project teams that are now finalists in this competition-based funding programme. This innovative, solutions-focused programme is a key driver in delivering research and innovation that makes a real and positive impact across society, the economy, and the environment – not just here in Ireland, but across Europe and around the world.”
lected today will have the opportunity for additional funding in the final phase of the programme, where prize funding of €1 million will be on offer to the most competitive teams under both the 2050 and the Future Digital
continue to develop their real-world, tangible solutions in concert with the societal impact champions who have helped shape their research focus.”
EU Commissioner for Fi-
Challenges.
Dr Ciarán Seoighe, Acting Director General, SFI, said: “The National Challenge Fund is a fast-paced funding programme that supports research teams to work directly with the key stakeholders most impacted by their research. I am excited to see these nine teams
nancial Services, Financial Stability and Capital Markets Union, Mairead McGuinness, said: “I am delighted to see the progress of the National Challenge Fund teams over the last 18 months. They’re showing what benefits EU funding can bring. The teams are working directly with those most impacted by the cli-
mate and digital transitions, to come up with the innovative solutions that we need for a more sustainable future – which will help both Ireland and the European Union as a whole. I wish these teams every success as they progress to the next phase of funding.”
The teams receiving funding today are split across two challenge areas. The 2050 Challenge seeks transformative, forward-looking solutions to current and future challenges for Ireland in becoming climate neutral and resilient by 2050. The finalists in this challenge are researching solutions for key challenges in the areas of nature restoration and renewable energy generation, improving electric vehicle technology, enabling safe, energy-dense hydrogen storage, and developing more sustainable approaches to green hydrogen production.
The Future Digital Challenge seeks to realise transformational societal and economic impact from disruptive digital technologies. The finalists in this challenge are focusing on sustainable peatland management, developing AI-powered bioprinting with industrial reproducibility and scalability, creating an easily deployable collaborative robotic system for manufacturing tasks, improving stroke patient recovery and maximising their functional independence and accelerating nanomedicine development, ensuring patients have faster access to superior medications.
Each team is being awarded up to €500,000 funding for the next 12 months. They will spend the next year advancing prototyping activities and demonstrating how the solutions they are developing can create tangible value by addressing the specific societal needs identified and refined in the previous phases of the funding programme.
PLAN FOR NAVAN SHARED EDUCATION CAMPUS PROPOSED
Plans for two new schools in Navan have been proposed on a shared education campus.
LMETB (Louth and Meath Educational and Training Board) submitted plans to construct built facilities for Árd Rí Community National School and St. Ultan’s Special School. These would be built on a shared education campus at Baker Hall, Limekilnhill, Navan, on an over eight acre site as part of a multi-million euro development.
Current plans, which may change in the future, include a part single-storey, part three-storey school building. Teaching spaces, ancillary spaces, a physical education hall facility, a special education needs unit, general purpose hall, social areas, library, administration areas, toilet and
changing facilities, and external stores will also be included with this development. Outdoors there will be car and bicycle parking, shared sports facilities, playing areas together with open spaces and landscaped areas added.
Ard Rí Community National School is currently located in Balreask Old in Navan which has been their home for 14 years. St. Ultan’s, which is currently located in Flower Hill in Navan, will receive a new two-storey building with a special education needs suite if the plan goes through without any corrections. St Ultan’s was founded in the 1960s and provides young people with a mild disability a fully rounded primary and secondary education. Also included in the plans will be teaching spaces, PE hall
facility, special education needs suite, general purpose hall, social areas, library, administration areas, toilet and changing facilities.
“The Design Team have been working very closely with the two schools to ensure that the finished plans will meet the needs of all the students,” LMETB representative Sinead Murphy said.
“I am extremely happy with the design of both schools, they look amazing. We look forward to the project moving forward to the next stage.”
“All the team is delighted to be at this stage of the process,” Ard Rí Principal Darragh Roe said. “ Mr Martin G O’Brien CE, and Ms Sinéad Murphy APO of Land and Building Section at LMETB along with our architects MCOH have designed
an ambitious project here. It’s such high spec throughout and they have made the most out of every inch of the site.
“Ms Jean Cunningham of St Ultan’s and I have been involved every step of the way. It will have a
lovely campus feel to it with both schools working together side by side. We really look forward to turning the sod in the very near future.”
The project is close to entering its planning application stage as
LMETB are ready to submit the plans for the campus alongside its shared sporting facilities. Final decisions on the current proposal are expected to be made by 1st September.
Interrailing and hostel hopping is something a lot of people are still reluctant to do. To be fair, waking up next to strangers and stressing over train times and seat reservations can be a struggle. Despite all that it is possibly the best way and cheapest way to go travelling while having complete freedom on what to do.
For most people, there seems to be one obvious reason why they would rather pay more for a hotel over the much cheaper hostel; sleeping in and storing your belongings in the same room as complete strangers is something people are uncomfortable with. To be fair it can be daunting not knowing who is in the same room as you at night for so many reasons that need no explanation. It can also get pretty awkward waking up and making instant eye contact by accident with someone you have never seen before.
Nine times out of ten, however, everyone in your room is someone you at least trust not to rob or assault you and the easiest way to find that out is by simply having a quick chat with them. If they can hold a normal conversation and not be weird about it then you are in the clear, but you can still ask to move room if worried about someone who seems ‘off’. Women can also
stay in female only dorms for that extra bit of security and peace of mind while on holiday.
This turns into something good a lot of the time as well because of how easy it is to make friends with bunk mates and head out somewhere with them. Hostels are probably the easiest places to meet new people and spend the entire night with. Some of the best memories you can have when interrailing will most likely be with people you knew for only a few days and will most likely never meet again. The fact these people will only know you for a few days almost makes it better as that makes it so much easier to be yourself. You won’t be seeing them again, so why not just be yourself and stop caring about whether they like you or not?
Hostels also make it much easier and cheaper for spontaneous day trips you just feel like doing for any reason you can think of. If there is extra space on the interrail pass then why not spend 25 euro (get symbol) to stay a single night somewhere completely different and move on to the next destination tomorrow morning? That kind of freedom would be near impossible for most if using hotels. The best part of it all is that sense of complete freedom it brings exploring each and
every place. Going into places completely blind (except for checking for risky areas to avoid) can also bring a sense of adventure to it. Seeing what a city has just from exploring it, with Google Maps or completely blind, is something that rarely people do on a well planned trip. The only place that needs to be inspected constantly before visiting is the hostel or you might end up watching those bugs on the ceiling just like me. Having a random number generator can also help with making spontaneous decisions or to just help pick something from a menu that is in a different language. Every country and city has its own unique touch, be it France’s pastry stalls scattered down every street or Italy’s restaurants where staff serve the best food you have ever tasted while arguing with each other at the same time (the louder they argue the better it tastes).
Something that has to be mentioned, however, is that things never fully go to plan on an interrail trip. To start, it is almost tradition that you lose at least a few things by the time your trip is over so just make sure you have the essentials such as your passport and cards before checking out of anywhere. Losing shower gel might be annoying but is always better than
finding out your wallet is in a room with seven strangers.
Having emergency funds is also recommended because chances are something will go wrong and some extra euros will be needed to fix it. This might not even be your fault as getting unlucky can happen to anyone. For example, one of the hostels I booked had a broken key card scanner so anyone could enter, the room doors were also unlocked with zero ways of locking it, the windows were locked shut and the fan did not work, there was bugs all over the ceiling, and to top it all off one of my bunk mates stole his sheets and covers on my first night there. Luckily there were some emergency funds left over to get me to another place where I did not have to wrap my legs around my bag so no one would steal it.
Next guaranteed problem to deal with is the trains which, despite being much easier to deal with then going through Dublin Airport, can easily lead to a mess with a single delay or missed train. This is stressful no matter what, but missing the train or forgetting to book a seat reservation hits when the panic hits. Personally, the ‘dumb tourist’ act where you act as if you did not know it needed a booking and apologising to the
CALLING MEATH ORGANIC FOOD AND DRINK PRODUCERS: ENTRIES OPEN FOR THE NATIONAL ORGANIC AWARDS
Bord Bia encourages organic producers to enter the National Organic Awards before August 12th
1st August 2024: Today, Bord Bia announced the details of the National Organic Awards, which will take place in Dublin on Thursday, October 17th, 2024. The National Organic Awards, held in association with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, celebrate the achievements of the increasing number of organic growers, producers, and manufacturers in the country. Meath-based organic producers are invited to submit entries into one of seven categories before the closing date of August 12th.
Judging will take place at the National Organic Food Fair in Merrion Square, Dublin on August 31st.
Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, Pippa Hackett commented: “The organic sector in Ireland is going from strength to strength, and the standard of what we are producing here really is world-class. I’m looking forward to seeing the quality of
entries when they are judged at the National Organic Food Fair in Merrion Square at the end of August, and indeed to the main event itself when the award winners and the very best of our sector will be announced on October 17th.”
Emmet Doyle, Organic Sector Manager in Bord Bia, said: “The National Organic Awards offer a platform to highlight the best organic food and drink produced in Ireland. As the momentum for Irish organics continues to grow, we are excited to celebrate the achievements and innovations of the sector’s pioneers. This year, in recognition of the dedicated efforts of many individuals in advancing the sector, we are proud to introduce the ‘Irish Organic Sector Champion’ award. Unlike other awards, all nominees for this category will be nominated by their peers. We look forward to receiving entries from businesses across the country in the coming weeks.”
Award Categories
The National Organic Awards aim to recognise developments within the organic sec-
tor across seven key categories, judged by a panel of Irish food, drink, and horticulture experts: The Irish Organic Sector Champion 2024 – This new
ence for the Irish organic sector, encompassing the qualities and philosophy of what the Irish organic sector stands for, and helping to progress the sector.
award recognises the achievements of an individual who is a true pioneer, a positive influ-
ic branded food and beverage products available for sale in Ireland either through retail, speciality, food service, or direct-to-consumer channels.
Best Irish Organic Private Label Product Award – Open to Irish organic products currently available through Irish retail/ food service channels, including seasonal products that were available over the past 12 months.
Best Irish Organic Product Export Award – Open to products currently being sold in the export market.
Best New and Innovative Irish Organic Product – Open to new products or packaging innovations launched since October 2022.
Direct to Consumer Excellence Award – Open to products being sold directly to consumers via e-commerce, e.g., company website, third-party shop, social media shop, etc. (Online sales via Irish retailer websites are not eligible).
Business in the Community Award – This category will acknowledge the achievements of businesses in their local communities.
How to apply:
For more information on the individual categories and how to apply, please visit Bord Bia’s website. Applications close on August 12th, with the shortlist being announced the week commencing August 27th.
Winners of the National Organic Awards 2024 will get a oneto-one session with Bord Bia’s Client Capability team, who will help develop a bespoke package of supports to meet individual company needs up to the value of €5,000.
There is a separate prize for the Irish Organic Sector Champion Award 2024.
Ireland has a target of 10% (450,000 hectares) of agricultural land to be farmed organically by 2030, up from approximately 1.6% in 2020. There are currently 5,000 farmers in the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS), with 3,000 joining the scheme since January 2023. Last year, Bord Bia consumer research found 67% of Irish shoppers purchase organic food and drink on a monthly basis.
Best Irish Organic Product Award – Open to Irish organ-
CraCking Meals With eggs
I was using really fresh organic eggs given to me for a recipe lately and it had been a while since I had seen such quality, the whites were firm and clean with no impurities and the yolk a rich deep orange blemish free hue that just oozed goodness. I usually have to fish out bits from them before using but these ones were just perfect. We seem to just take eggs and their genius for granted these days but they have been such an important part of diet and cookery forever they should be given more credit for all they provide. Eggs have it all and they help you keep a nutritious and healthy diet being a
valuable source of protein. Man has eaten them forever and today they are as cheap, diverse and easily available. Even quail and duck eggs are common now. Ignore the so called experts who say you cannot eat them every day, pure bunkum. There was a time I recall where we were warned not to eat so many as they would lead to heart attacks from high cholesterol which is of course quackers.
Just one egg is only about seventy calories but it has superb protein, fats, iron, vitamin, minerals and an important nutrient called choline that helps cell development and brain health. Along with important antioxidants like selenium there is no doubt that they pack a powerful punch in keeping us healthy be it in the young or old. I was given a raw egg whisked into my porridge as a child, now that
is the right way to start the day.
We also no longer have to go out to the hen coop to see if any eggs were laid
naise should be curtailed but that is about the limit in my view bar you are allergic to them altogether. Egg whites are three quarters water as is the yolk. The
and the old time hygiene health risks associated with them have long been allayed with our stringent farming regulations. Okay if you have low immunity or are medically compromised then having them in a raw form like mayon-
shells are porous which means they can absorb odours and their natural carbon dioxide gas can escape after a while.
Cooking wise they are unbeatable. They are best fresh of course and really
a couple of weeks is the maximum time to use them up. They are vital right across the culinary spectrum from sauces, salads and starters, both hot and cold, to main courses like omelettes and quiches. Desserts and cakes would be very limited without them being an essential element in infinite recipes from pastry to puddings or just as basic like an egg wash to have the finished product gleaming.
I would eat about six on average a week, two on a breakfast say scrambled or poached or in salads and three in an omelette perhaps and then they would be consumed in many other dishes as a component part. They keep well too and you should always keep them refrigerated. Each commercial egg will have its own little expiry date stamped on it now. They will not kill you either if you exceed this by a few days. It’s fashionable to keep your own hens now too, though they are a bit of work so you will want to be dedicated to the welfare and clean their area properly if home produced. The foxes have moved into our urban areas so any holes in that fencing will mean you could be missing one or more of your little darlings in the morning. The pleasure of having a fresh egg straight from the henhouse is one of life’s great culinary joys.
So if you are not keen on eggs you are certainly missing out and if you cannot boil an egg then you definitely need some tuition. This is the common refrain from those who are cookery challenged but eggs are so versatile you can avoid boiling them altogether so you just need to crack on with all the other ways they can be enjoyed.
