“THE PROBLEM IN IRELAND IS THAT WE HAVE ACCESSIBLE BUSES, IT’S JUST WE DON’T HAVE ACCESSIBLE BUS STOPS”
By Sorcha Rose McGroarty
Matthew Sharkey is a 21 year old university student studying Multimedia in DCU, and is currently active in University life. He attends social events weekly and works hard to maintain his grades, hangs out with friends and works on multimedia projects outside of his studies.
Sharkey is also one of the hundreds of people in Ireland living day to day with a physical disability.
Matthew has Duchenne
Muscular Dystrophy, a disability that leaves him in a wheelchair requiring aid to complete tasks such as eating, drinking and putting himself to bed.
Despite the struggles he faces day to day, he works hard everyday to be active in his community, volunteering in multiple university society positions while also being an advocate for the disabled. Unfortunately for Matthew he struggles to get to class due to the inaccessibility in public transport. For able bodied students travelling
the same route as Matthew from Dorogheda to DCU it’s as simple as taking the Bus Eireann 101 or 101X to Whitehall, a bus stop a 10 minute walk from campus. However in Matthews case the only accessible bus stops on this route are the one in the Drogheda bus station and the final stop, in Bus Aras.
“The problem in Ireland is that we have accessible buses, it’s just we don’t have accessible bus stops.”
The issues lies in the width
of the bus stops themselves, while the buses have ramps to allow a wheelchair user to board the bus, the bus stops themselves are not wide enough for a wheelchair to use the ramp.
“The only bus that I can get on that goes near Dublin from where I live is the 103X which goes from a local village called Duleek.”
For Matthew to be able to avail of public transport to go to college, it would mean getting the 103X from Duleek and taking it to the
BusAras bus stop or getting a train to Connolly station, and then getting a Dublin bus to DCU.
“A lot of the times it’s when they’re building the bus stop they build it on a certain part of the footpath, and it isn’t wide enough for a ramp to go down, but instead of just widening the footpath they just don’t put the route online as accessible.”
The route from Drogheda to Whitehall takes an hour and ten minutes however Matthew says for him to
use a wheelchair accessible route to get to college it could take upwards of two hours, time he simply does not have due to his condition. The issue lies further rooted in issues with the ramps on buses and the frequency they break down.
“And then multiple times a bus ramp wont work, a bus lift wont work and then you’re stuck and you have to figure out something else.”
According to Matthew this is a frequent issue for
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him. In order to be able to maintain a healthy social life and spend time with his friends he requires the use of public transportation. He uses Dublin bus in particular frequently during the college year.
“There was one day where I was with my friends, going bowling, and I had to get a bus back by myself to dcu. The first bus that came along, the ramp wouldn’t work and the bus driver said to me, ‘I know it wouldn’t work but I had to try anyway’ so then I had to wait for the next bus…I’ve had that problem a lot.”
For Matthew the wait time between his buses can leave him in considerable pain due to his disability. It also leaves him a lack of spontaneity in his life as he cannot make plans last minute due to his issues with public transportation.
“There is a severe lack in allowing people with disabilities to be spontaneous, we always have to plan stuff in advance and plant it meticulously, and make sure this bus is accessible and make sure
this train is accessible and make sure this lift isn’t broken, make sure that there’s somebody gonna be there if anything happens”
He also notes that like himself, many disabled people feel deeply anxious when it comes to planning these routes due to the lack of certainty that they will make it to their destination safely. Matthew can never be sure that if a bus breaks down or a lift is not working that he will be able to find another way home.
“Sometimes I travel by myself and you’re always worrying if something will go wrong, what will I do… I think it’s a lack on the government and the transport authorities on thinking of people with disabilities”
The accumulation of these issues has left Matthew in a position where he is forced to get taxis to and from college to be able to attend his classes. While these are paid for by grants provided to DCU the money to hire a taxi can only be used for academic purposes, leaving Matthew stranded at home during the summer months.
“I want to be independent by myself… I wouldn’t mind taking a bus from my local bus station to Dublin but I can’t”
During the covid-19 lockdowns in Ireland, many people experienced severe consequences on their mental health due to the social isolation, however for the disabled community this is unfortunately a regular occurance.
“It makes me feel excluded from my community.”
While Matthew faces these issues he continues to find alternative ways to socialise. He invites friends from long distances away to his own home, calls them to maintain connections and plays video games to tackle the issues associated with the isolation he faces in the summer months.
While Matthew is only one person in the 2016 census it was reported that there were 643,131 people in Ireland living with a disability. With such a large community it is no surprise that there are advocates like Matthew speaking up for
the masses and demanding change in our country.
“I really don’t know why it’s
such a big problem in 2023 in a country like ireland.”
The National Transport Authority and the National
Advocacy service were both asked for comment on this article however neither party provided one.
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MEATH COMHAIRLE NA NÓG MEMBERS GATHER AT CROKE PARK
By Matthew Sharkey
Over 500 people from Comhairle na nÓg, including members from Meath, gathered at Croke Park Stadium on Tuesday 4th of April to
CLLR.
celebrate and showcase their achievements. The event was hosted by radio and television personality Doireann Garrihy with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister Roderic O’Gorman in attendance. The National
Showcase is a biannual event that highlights the work of members of Comhairle na nÓg and how young people have had their voices heard.
Radio and television personality Doireann Garrihy
DAMIEN O’REILLY ENCOURAGES PEOPLE TO APPLY EARLY FOR PASSPORTS
Cllr. Damien O’Reilly is encouraging those who need new passports for travel to apply for them in plenty of time as the Department of Foreign Affairs is anticipating high demand in 2023 with an estimated 1.5 million applications expected.
Cllr. O’Reilly stated, “I would encourage families who are planning to travel in 2023 with children who are first-time applicants, to apply now online and only use 24/7 Garda stations (Ashbourne, Kells, Navan, Trim) to sign and stamp the required documentation”.
Almost all Irish citizens can apply for first time passports and renewals online by taking a picture on a mobile phone against a white background. The current turnaround
time for simple adult renewals is 2-10 working days, complex renewals will take 15 working days and first-time applicants can take up to 20 working days to process, if the documentation is completed correctly.
Cllr. O’Reilly added, “Given the demand for passports expected by the Department this year, I would urge people to apply now to avoid missing their flight down the line.
“An urgent appointment service for passport renewal is also available at passport offices in Cork and Dublin. It offers a same day renewal service and appointments can be booked three days in advance. A four-day renewal service is also available, and these appointments can be booked three weeks in advance.’’
led proceedings during the event, and the Dublin Gospel Choir provided the entertainment with memorable renditions of some well-known songs. The event allowed the youth councils of the 31 Local Authorities of Ireland to showcase their work and engage with local and national policy decision-
makers. “Today’s gathering is especially important in order to celebrate the achievements of Comhairle na nÓg and the tremendous impact of the work being done,” Minister Roderic O’Gorman said.
“It gives me great hope to witness the enthusiasm and commitment of the young
people involved, who should have their voices heard on a wide range of policies and issues, Leo Varadkar said.
“The Government recognises the valuable work of Comhairle na nÓg and we are committed to ensuring that young people continue to be engaged in decisionmaking that affects them.”
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DRIVERS HEALTH TRANSITION INITIATIVE
By Kieran Fleming
Drivers Health Transition
Initiative is targeted at the”Drivers “ of Health and Well-being and also
targeting Safety on our roads for the greater good of all and especially road users . When we read about truck drivers, we also read about Incidents, Accidents,
Injuries, Casualties and unfortunately Fatalities.
We also read of drivers deaths at a young age etc. Governing bodies concentrate on speeding , fines , driver and vehicle compliance. I want to concentrate on Driver Health. Cardiovascular disease,Musculoskeletal disorders ,Cancers, Obesity and many others are predominantly due to the sedentary lifestyle behaviours on the roads leading to lower than Average life expectancy.
Tight schedules, snacking and short breaks don’t help. I call it the Sunday dinner effect. Not wanting to be too blunt , I get away with it on a Sunday but not for 250 Sundays in a year. Something has to give.
Before Covid 19 , I came out the right side of Septic Arthritis and took up Truck Driving to rest the body after a lifetime of Farming and Construction. Little did I know that within three years I would put on 25 kg
in weight and run the risk of the aforementioned diseases myself.
My saving grace to this day is the combined use of upper limb cycle and lower
limb cycle equipment . It addresses the movement of all my joints without weight bearing in sessions of 5 mins.
As little as 3 x 5 mins x 5 days is over 1 hour of exercise
that every road user should, could and would get with my program.
1 hr per week is now 52 hrs more in a year, more money in your pocket and a retirement to live for.
ULSTER BANK NAVAN BRANCH CLOSES
By Eoin Ryan
Ulster Bank closed its Navan branch and all of their remaining 63 branches across the Republic of Ireland.
Navan was the last Meath remaining branch after Trim, Kilcock, and Ardee branches closed in January before being reopened as Permanent TSB banks. 14 of its branches, including Athboy and Ashbourne, closed in 2015. ATM services have also stopped but customer services and support is still continuing to help customers move and close their accounts.
Ulster Bank has reduced their branch services in phases since January 2021 with branch transactions seeing a 99 percent reduction since then.
“As the closure of current and deposit accounts materially concludes, I strongly urge any remaining customer who has not yet moved their current and deposit account to act swiftly to find a new provider and
move their accounts,” Ulster Bank Chief Executive Jane Howard said. “Although our branches will no longer be open after today, we are still here to support our remaining customers.”
They are expected to put the 31 branch buildings they own up for sale before the end of the year, but said it would be next year at the earliest before returning its licence to the Central Bank.
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SHOWCASE EVENT FOR OLDER PEOPLE IN FAIRYHOUSE RACECOURSE
The Meath Age Friendly Alliance is inviting older people in County Meath to attend a one-day event at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Tuesday, May 16 at 10.00am, where attendees will hear about the wide array of services and supports available for older people in the county.
The event is the brainchild
of Meath County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian, who wanted to reach out to older people in the community and let them know about the many groups that can provide assistance.
“I was very aware of older people in Meath who experience loneliness and others who are living in rural areas and find it
difficult to access services or participate in social opportunities. I wanted to organise this event to showcase all the supports available for older people in the county, and to let them know about the many types of help that are available. Older people should be included in all aspects of our community, whether that’s the arts, sports,
community development or volunteering. Meath has a lot to offer, and this event is an opportunity to promote what’s available on our doorstep.”
The Fairyhouse event will feature exhibition stands, demonstrations and a variety of speakers on topics such as nutrition, mental health, and local services.
The Buvinda Meath County Council Choir will perform on the day.
The Meath Age Friendly Alliance is an interagency group that oversees the Meath Age Friendly Programme. An Age friendly Programme is designed to support communities to develop as Age friendly, in recognition of the growing number of older people in our society. This programme of work is aligned with the World Health Organisation’s global framework for Age Friendly Cities and Communities.
Meath County Council Age Friendly Programme Manager
Valerie McHugh explained “We have an excellent Age Friendly Alliance structure in Meath with very committed people involved in making changes for the benefit of our older communities. We also have an active Older People’s Council which is where older people get involved in supporting and advising the agencies on how to deliver services for older people. We are seeking new members for
our Older People’s Council and anyone who would like to get involved can register their interest on the day.”
The showcase event will be opened at 10.30am by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian and will run until 2.00pm. Light refreshments will be provided. Booking is recommended as places are limited. To register your attendance please phone (046) 9097400 or email community@meathcoco.ie
The Meath Age Friendly Alliance would like to say a special thanks to Peter Roe, Manager of Fairyhouse Racecourse, for facilitating the event. Thanks also to Miriam McKenna of Local Link Flexibus for arranging transport to the venue and to all of the speakers and exhibitors including Task Security, An Garda Siochana, Acorn Digital Tablets, Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme, Third Age, Meath Library Service, Citizens Information, Meath Sports Partnership, Meath Public Participation Network, and the Civil Defence.
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PALESTINIAN DEPORTED FROM HIS HOME COUNTRY HOLDS TALK IN NAVAN
By Eoin Ryan
Meath residents heard of the inhumane conditions Palestinian protesters put in administrative detention currently face in Israeli prisons.
French-Palestinian human rights defender Salah Hammouri was subjected to
these conditions for 10 years over a 20 year period before being illegally deported from his home country.
Salah Hammouri was deported last December from Israel-Palestine and was stripped of his East Jerusalem residency status. Hammouri has been repeatedly sent to administrative detention
without trial since he was 16 years old due to his open opposition against the Palestinian occupation.
Local residents heard how “The conditions are made to destroy the human beings in the prisons,” with human rights routinely being abused. Currently there are 4,900 Palestinian prisoners in
Israeli jails, 971 of which are administrative detainees. This includes 1,000 prisoners suffering with illness or mental health issues, 118 underage detainees, and 300 who have spent more than 20 years in prison.
One of these underage detainees, 13 at the time, “was tortured physically and psychologically throughout his interrogation” when entering the prison. Two years later, he was sent to an isolation cell which only permits him one hour in the yard each day. Israeli authorities refused to end his detainment despite him developing psychological issues while receiving zero medical support.
2,400 Palestinian children have been killed by Israeli occupation forces since 2000 and 700 children are arrested on a yearly basis. Since 2000, Israeli occupation forces have killed over 2,400 Palestinian children and Blind prisoners were given
little to no support by Israeli authorities with fellow Palestinian becoming their primary caretakers during detention.
“Blind prisoners, they have no rights. We ask for books for them to read. This was refused. Sticks to walk in the yard. It was refused.
Everything was refused. We were the responsible persons to do everything for them.”
Hammouri’s story has been highlighted by Amnesty International, Frontline Defenders, and the International Federation for Human Rights.
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MENOPAUSAL WOMEN IN MEATH NO LONGER NEED TO ‘SUFFER IN SILENCE’
A doctor at one of Ireland’s leading women’s health clinics claims menopausal women in the northeast are being told to ‘grin and bear it’ by some GPs. Dr Talisa Chennells treats women every day for symptoms linked to the so-called change of life at the Menopause Hub, in Santry, north Dublin.
“If you are woman living in Monaghan, Cavan, Meath, or Louth, and you are concerned that your doctor is not really listening to you, then please get in touch,” she said.
Her clients, she said, seek help for a vast range of symptoms including fatigue, lack of sleep, anxiety and depression, and brain fog. However, many of them had previously been told by a GP not to worry about the menopause because it would “pass in a few years”. Some had even been offered anti-depressants.
“That is such an old fashioned attitude,” said Dr Chennells, who worked as a GP after graduating in medicine. “Women struggling with menopausal symptoms do not need
to suffer in silence anymore.
“There are a number of treatment options available to them, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT), non-hormonal medicines, herbal treatments, and psychological counselling.”
But Dr Chennells, who is a member of the British Menopause Society, said some of her former colleagues in general practice remain suspicious of HRT – even though recent research shows it can be safely prescribed to suitable patients.
“A lot of the women I see say their family doctor was reluctant to give them HRT,” said Dr Chennells, who is originally from Johannesburg, South Africa. “They’re told their symptoms won’t last, that HRT can cause problems, and that they should just ‘grin and bear it’ until the menopause passes.
“A number of clients said they had even been offered antidepressants.” “There are so many misconceptions about HRT and that’s why many doctors
don’t prescribe it,” Dr Chennells added. “But HRT can be a game changer, and even though there is a percentage of women for whom it is not suitable, breast cancer patients, for example, recent studies show the benefits outweigh the risks for most others.”
Dr Chennells (35) said she moved from her native South Africa to Dublin with her husband and three children to join the multidisciplinary team at the Menopause Hub – Ireland’s first-ever clinic solely devoted to helping menopausal women overcome symptoms –because she is passionate about women’s health.
But she fears some women in the north-east of the country are not getting the help they require when they reach their mid-40s, when the perimenopause begins. “We are here to help, and we understand that every woman’s menopausal journey is as individual as they are,” Dr Chennells added. “Our clinic is situated just off the M50, at the Ikea exit, and is easily accessible via the M1, M2, and M3 motorways.”
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HSE NURSING HOMES PAID 84% MORE THAN OTHER NURSING HOMES IN MEATH
By Eoin Ryan
Residents of HSE nursing homes in Meath are paid on average €923 more through Fair Deal contributions compared to those in private and voluntary nursing homes, according to recent HSE figures.
Meaths two HSE nursing homes received on average 84.5% more than the other 18 nursing homes across the county in January 23, an increase from 77% last year. Meath’s two HSE nursing homes, St. Joseph’s Community Nursing Unit, Trim, and Beaufort House, Navan, cost €2,184 and €1841 respectively for care per resident weekly. HSE homes in Laois, Longford and Westmeath are paid double the fees in comparison to their private and voluntary counterparts. Nationally, HSE reveal HSE nursing homes receive an average 69% more per resident.
A cost of care crisis has led to 20 nursing homes closing down in the past year including Boyne Valley nursing home in Dowth last October. Increased
overheads and higher regulatory demands are seen as the reason for these closures, but all of which were smaller nursing homes.
The Alliance group was set up in response to this earlier this year, a support network for smaller nursing homes. They claim NHI cannot represent the interest of smaller homes as well as larger homes, as they are not facing equal risks.
CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland (NHI) Tadhg Daly said this is discrimination against “nursing home residents and those entrusted in meeting their health and social care needs. It is discriminatory use of public funding and private and voluntary nursing homes are forced to close while HSE nursing homes receive multiples in funding.”
Staff in private sectors are also subject to worse pay in comparison to their public sector counterparts. The starting rate in private nursing homes is €12 per hour, only 70 cents above minimum wage, with the public sector earning €14 per hour at a basic
yearly salary of €28,000, according to advertisements from recruiting agencies. Development of a policy paper regarding nursing homes has been put on hold despite the government stating its commitment to implement measures which will stabilise the sector.
“It is a crisis that has been acknowledged by Government on a longstanding basis, yet repeated promises to bring into effect a response are still outstanding,” Daly said. “It is irresponsible and bitterly disappointing that it has now stalled on implementation of a policy paper to provide the sector with much needed direction. Communities are losing nursing home care services and this will have very detrimental implications and leave health and social care without vital services.”
Some private nursing homes have put supplementary charges on residents according to complaints made to watchdog Hiqa. They say these charges are levied on top of Fair Deal contributions, some being
an extra €3,600 a year. Another complaint said a medical card holder entitled to free GP care, is €160 a month for the nursing home’s contracted doctor. One family had to pay €300 for a sling to attach to a hoist.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health said they are “currently reviewing the available evidence and considering various policy options in relation to additional nursing home
charges”. Nursing homes have said Fair Deal covers only the basics and the extra out-of-pocket charges are needed to cover therapies, activities, hairdressing, and other services. There are concerns, however, that charges are imposed whether residents used the services or not.
“I am conscious that small and voluntary nursing homes are facing challenges at the moment,” Minister of State for Older People
Mary Butler said. “In November, I announced the €10m temporary inflation payments scheme to alleviate the pressures faced by nursing homes as a result of increasing energy prices.”
There are currently 22,613 people living in nursing homes receiving support under Fair Deal.
The cost of residential care to the State was €1.4bn last year and residents in their contributions paid €350m.
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MEATH’S #PRIDEOFPLACE INFORMATION EVENINGS
Meath County Council have announced a number of information evenings for local community groups, resident associations, tidy town groups and volunteers who wish to find out more about entering this year’s Meath Pride of Place competition.
Each information evening will commence at 6.30pm and will take place in Navan Library on Tuesday, May 16, Conyhgham Arms Hotel, Slane on Wednesday, May 17, Kells Library on Thursday, May 18, Dunboyne Library on Tuesday, May 23, Trim Castle Hotel on Wednesday, May 24 and Ashbourne Library on Thursday, May 25.
Speaking about the initiative Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian said “The Pride of Place initiative gives Meath County Council an opportunity to recognise the many hard working resident associations, community groups, volunteers and tidy towns groups in the County. This is the 20th year of the initiative, during these years it has evolved to focus not only on the visual aspect of the county, but also on education and awareness.
It’s great to see volunteers giving up their own time to help build community relations. It’s also about community pride, not just how a place looks, but how people feel
about it. By taking care of their own local environment, these groups build a better and more inclusive community, not just for their residents, but also for tourists and visitors. I would encourage as many new groups as possible to enter the competition this year. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all participants who have entered the competition over the last 20 years”.
Susanne Mahon, Meath County Council Pride of Place Coordinator added “There have been some changes made to this year’s initiative, we have introduced a new category ‘Best Green Community Amenity’ which is suitable for community allotments, walkways, waterways and is also open to previous winners of the Best New Group category. There is a strong focus on collaboration this year and we are encouraging groups to work with other groups and to share information. We have a new application form, and we also have the option of applying online for the first time.”
To learn more about the new application form, categories, or the overall initiative you are invited to attend one of the information evenings. To book your place please email prideofplace@meathcoco.ie or call 046 9097400.
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SLIGHT INCREASE IN DENTISTS RE-ENTERING MEDICAL CARD SCHEME
By Eoin Ryan
Dentists re-entering the medical card scheme in Meath increased since the start of this year but more is needed to cover ongoing shortfalls in the scheme.
The number of dentists registered on the Dental Treatment Services Scheme increased slightly from 8 to 11 dentists in Meath between the end of 2022
and the end of March 2023, according to Fine Gael TD Fergus O’Dowd.
The government is providing an additional €15m to Irish oral healthcare in 2023, “however we must see a tangible outcome for medical card holders from this investment to ensure we have better access and less emergency referrals impacting the already overstretched HSE dental
teams,” Fergus O’Dowd said. 6,518 6th class children in Meath have been waiting up to three years for dental assessment and treatment. According to figures released to Sinn Fein TD Imelda Munster. A lack of dentists participating in the medical card scheme has led to “unprecedented” waiting lists for both primary schoolchildren and members of the public reliant on the scheme for dental care.
“Delays like this have never been seen before and as if the figures for primary schoolchildren are not bad enough, the entire situation is compounded further with tens of thousands of medical card holders unable to access dental care for the past two years,” Imelda Munster said.
“Dentists are understandably sceptical of the government’s statements, not least given how often all promises on the commencement of talks on a new scheme have been broken. Dentists have said there’s been no changes to the scheme in 16 years.”
A NIGHT WITH RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD
Raymond van Barneveld comes to Kells on June 10th to the Live Nite Club at The Headfort Arms Hotel. The night is being ran as a fundraiser for Gaeil Colmcille C.L.G., who will be putting the proceeds of the fundraiser towards the development of facilities of their grounds in Grangegodden. Twenty local players will get the chance to take on van Barneveld on the night. General Admission tickets are priced at €20. VIP tickets are priced at €35, which includes early access, meet & greet, Q&A, reserved seating and a photo opportunity. To purchase tickets go to www. ticketstop.ie and search Raymond van Barneveld.
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VISIT BY CONGRESS OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES TO MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL
Meath County Council was delighted to welcome a delegation from the
Congress of Local and Regional Authorities to discuss matters relating to
local governance in Ireland and to share our experiences in Meath County Council.
The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities carries out regular visits to
monitor the commitments undertaken by Council of Europe member states which have signed and ratified the European Charter for Local SelfGovernment, which Ireland committed to in 2002. The delegation was composed of two co-rapporteurs on local and regional democracy, Mr. Vladimir Prebilič, Slovenia and Ms. Gunn Marit Helgesen, Norway, they were assisted by Dr. Anders Lidstrom, Sweden, who is a member of the Group of Independent Experts on the European Charter of Local Self Government and the Congress Secretariat, Ms. Stéphanie Poirel.
The delegation met with An Cathaoirleach Councillor Nick Killian, the Chief Executive Jackie Maguire as well as the management team and elected members of Meath County Council. The Cathaoirleach welcomed the delegation to County Meath and outlined
the elected members’ role within the Council. The Chief Executive provided details of the structures and finances of local government in the county. There was a good discussion around recent developments relating to local governance and their impact on local self-government in Meath County Council, as well as the major challenges facing local government in Ireland.
An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Nick Killian welcomed the opportunity to put forward the views of the elected members and he commented “local government is at the heart of governance and public service at local level and the elected members of Meath County Council will continue to represent our citizens and local communities to enhance the quality of life of the people of Meath”. The visit took place at Buvinda House in Navan on Wednesday April 5, 2023.
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WORLD MASTERS INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS TORUN POLAND
Meath had its largest representative of athletes at the World Indoor Championship in Torun Poland with 8 Meath Athletes competing which includes Aoife Parrella and Phyllis Browne of Star of the Sea AC, Moira Groome and Edel Gaffney of Trim AC, Siobheal
Murray of Ratoath AC, Michael Grace and Michael Cornyn of Dunboyne and Mick Priest of Fr. Murphy AC.
A brilliant start to the World Championships when Edel Gaffney took Silver in W35 Cross Country followed up 48 hours later with a great
run in the 10k road race to the individual bronze medal. Her club mate Moira Groom finished the week on a high. After competing in her individual events, 60m and 200m, she was selected to run both the W55 Women’s 4x200m relay and the 4x200m mixed relay.
Moira partnered with Carol Kearney, David Haye and Shane Sheridan in the mixed 4x200m relay and came away with a brilliant World Silver medal and a new Irish record. Then on the 4x200m ladies Moira ran a storming first leg to give Ireland a lead with Carol Kearney, Edel McGuire and Fionla Moore won World bronze.
Michael Grace from Dunboyne AC set 2 personal bests in Weight for Distance 12.35am and the HAmmer with a distance of 44.16m in his first World Championships. Michael Cornyn finished 4th in the heat of the M60 800m in a time of 64 seconds but didn’t progress to the semi final.
In the M60 800m semi final Michael led from the gun in the 4th heat but was beaten in a sprint finish over the last 100m finishing 4th and missed making the World 800m final.
Michael was selected on the Irish M50 2x200m mixed relay and alongside Catherine Markey, Linda Nally and Ronan Gately set a new Irish record of 1 minute 57 seconds, but not good enough to medal Siobheal Murray who finished an agonising 4th earlier in the week in W55 high jump. She cleared 1m 36 but the bronze medal was won in 1m 40.
Mick Priest, having been injured prior to the Championship still toed the line on a very good Irish M70 4x200m team. A great run by Matthew Slattery, Joe Gough, Ken Higgs and Mick saw them smash the existing Irish record by over 9 seconds, but unfortunately they missed a medal finishing in 4th place.
Phyllis Browne had a strong run in the M70 Cross Country, but unfortunately had no other Irish athletes to make up a team. The Irish team had a tremendous Championship with a team of over 130 athletes claiming 75 World medals. With 88 countries competing Ireland at one stage during the week was topping the medal table and finished a magnificent 7th overall.
They were actually tied for 6th place with Italy, but Italy had more gold medals. Irish Masters athletes are now ranked right up at the top of the world per head of
population.
Only Poland, Germany, USA, Great Britain, and Spain won more medals at these Championships.
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ARE YOU CURIOUS ENOUGH TO EXPLORE EVERY PATH THAT DALGAN PARK PROVIDES?
By Eoin Ryan
Those regularly going from Navan towards Dublin and the towns in between through Garlow Cross, Dalgan park’s entrance is a regular site. Just as you enter the premises its manor house stands tall and wide to your right while several paths to your left branch off
Not every path leads to the same places and it would take several strolls around the area to find every feature hidden across its boundaries. Even after over
one and a half hours walking across forest and field, I could still see paths towards areas still yet to be seen Looking at the map giving directions does not put into perspective its vast size, making it easy for regulars to make each visit a unique experience. Several trips down and hours of walking would be needed for those curious enough to explore every path that Dalgan park provides.
Most paths follow a gravel trail, but those made in dirt or even grass lead
to more isolated and sometimes scenic areas. One example was a thin dirt line leading off from gravel paths going towards the River Boyne, following its stream until it opens into a small opening within the trees.
Finding a picturesque view is almost guaranteed across almost every inch, from its dense forests covering the sun’s rays to open fields seen for miles on end. Each path has its own scenery meaning one path could be completely unique to another that might only be a single left
turn away. With such a large area comes the reassurance that you will meet very few people along your travels. On a weekday late afternoon, there was only one person every 10 to 15 minutes seen along the trail I was walking down.
There are still several sections unexplored to me, from its graveyard to the farmland still being used and maintained. For anyone curious about visiting, the NX and 109 buses both have stops just outside its entrance at a consistent basis
3KM EXTENSION OF BOYNE VALLEY TO LAKELANDS GREENWAY OPENS TO PUBLIC
By Eoin Ryan
A new 3km stretch of the Boyne Valley to Lakelands greenway going from Navan to the tailing ponds at Tara mines has opened. The greenway is currently an 8km continuous walking and cycling path from Navan to Wilkinstown with several extensions expected to be finished in the near future.
The greenway will be 30km long after completion trailing from Navan in Co. Meath to Kingscourt in Co. Cavan. Funding for the project was secured in 2019 but the project was delayed due to ongoing works regarding Tara mines installing underground pipes.
Cllr. Eugene Cassidy said Meath County Council will be connecting it to Blackwater park from Ratholden road in the near future.There also plans to eventually connect it to the Boyne greenway after its construction. The Wilkinstown to Castletown extension is expected to finish in the summer as groundworks laying the surface
are ongoing. The Nobber to Kilmainhamwood section is closest to completion with fencing and farm crossings in place despite delays due to a new bridge crossing over the river Dee. Cassidy said this will “probably be one of the most beautiful sections of The Boyne ValleyLakelands greenway.
“We are so lucky that this lake is part of the greenway and will enhance the overall experience that this greenway has to offer.”
The Kilmainhamwood to Kingscourt section will be the last to be completed and Cavan County Council plans to connect it to Dun Na Ri Park and Kingscourt. Cassidy said he expects the project to be completed by next September.
“So with the weather improving and the evenings longer it will be great to get out and make the most of the greenway. We are so lucky to have this amenity on our doorstep.”
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WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE MY RISK OF DEVELOPING DEMENTIA
Most of us are terrified of developing dementia. It can be our biggest fear as we get older. It is a very frightening diagnosis not only to the person receiving the diagnosis but it has a significant impact to their family and friends. What is so frightening about this disease is that there is no cure, and it is progressive.
It is still unclear how dementia develops. As we know dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a number of symptoms that result from damage to the brain caused by a number of different diseases. There is no certain way to prevent all types of dementia. Some dementia risk factors are impossible to change. What the evidence does show is that advancing age is a risk factor. However, it is important to note that dementia is not a natural part of ageing but the older you are the risk of developing dementia does increase.
Evidence shows that there are things that you can do to reduce your own risk. Researchers advise that by modifying
the risk factors we are able to reduce the risk of developing dementia by around a third which is hugely significant.
A healthy lifestyle that promotes good heart health is also good for brain health.
1. Untreated high blood pressure or high cholesterol has a harmful effect on the heart as it increases the risk of stroke and vascular dementia. Treating high blood pressure with medicine prescribed by your doctor can control your blood pressure and reduce your risk.
2. Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing a diet high in fat and sugar can also reduce your risk. A study in the US concluded that those people who ate a diet consisting of at least 2 servings of vegetables a day particularly green leafy veg as well as reduced salt , sugar and processed foods had significant less cognitive decline. For those with type 2 diabetes it is crucial to maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Also important is hydration so make sure you
drink plenty of water.
3. Become physically active. Even getting out doors for a daily walk can not only boost your mood but it is also good for your heart and your weight. Any form of exercise is important.
4. Stop smoking and try and limit alcohol intake. Smoking can increase your risk of heart and lung problems and increase your risk of stroke. Limit alcohol intake as drinking too much can worsen other health conditions as well as risk of falls.
5. Stay connected. Research reveals that social interaction and being involved socially can decrease your risk. Social isolation and loneliness can increase your risk by 50 %.
6. Stay sharp. Keeping your brain active by learning a new skill. Try learning a new language , learning to play a musical instrument or any new skill is excellent for brain health.
7. Decrease stress levels as much as you can . Try meditation praying or just
talking to someone about your worries can help reduce your stress.
8. Try and get a good nights sleep. A nap in the afternoon can also be good for brain health. Speak to your doctor if you have trouble sleeping.
9. One of the biggest things that you can do is get your hearing checked. A recent Lancet study in the UK found that those with hearing loss had an increased risk of developing dementia as the brain had to work harder to strain and fill in the gaps . If you are finding that you are struggling to hear book an appointment for a hearing check. Also if you have been prescribed a hearing aid it is important to wear it. Similarly poor eyesight can put you at risk of falls so have your vision checked on a regular basis also.
Helen Coyne MSc Nursing. Director Elite Homecare Providers 60 Haggard St Trim 0469431736 info@ elitehomecareproviders.ie
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OFFICIAL OPENING OF NOBBER FIRE STATION AFTER UPGRADING WORKS
The newly upgraded Nobber Fire Station has been officially opened by Meath County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian.
The opening follows the completion of works to the station of €1,100,000 with the redevelopment being funded by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Upgrade works to the station feature an appliance bay that accommodates both vehicles attached to the station, a drill yard and tower, training rooms, canteen facilities and modern changing facilities. The Project Team included Doohamlet Construction Ltd and Node Design team.
The station, with its ten personnel, operates as part of Meath County Council Fire and Rescue Service, along with brigades from six other stations. The station provides the base for immediate response to approximately 80 emergency incidents annually.
Speaking at the official opening, Cllr Nick Killian said: “Much has changed since the original Nobber Fire Station was built. It was recognised that the old station was no longer fit for purpose. This upgraded station is an excellent facility that has been completed to the highest standard. I welcome this investment in the Fire
Service that will support personnel to respond to emergency incidents with maximum efficiency.”
Jackie Maguire, Chief Executive of Meath County Council, said: “This newly extended station will give the personnel stationed here much more room to accomplish their tasks. The station will provide Nobber and the wider area with a greatly improved facility to ensure the continued delivery of an effective emergency and fire safety response to the community for future generations. I look forward to this station and those who work here making a valuable contribution to the local community in Nobber and surrounding areas for many years to come.”
Cllr. Eugene Cassidy, Cathaoirleach of Kells Municipal District, said:
“Since 1965, many of us have seen, and heard, the members of this station leave at any hour of the day or night, at a moment’s notice, to attend to emergencies of all types, many of which us ordinary folks would struggle to get to grips with, let alone attend with such professionalism and care. They have made an outstanding contribution to our community.
For a small community at the edge of the county, many miles from other emergency and medical services, they are indeed lifesavers, and we are grateful every day
for their service.” Sheila Broderick, Meath Chief Fire Officer, said: “The completion of this project represents a very positive
development for the Fire Service as well as all of the people who live in, work in, and visit Nobber.”Meath County Council Fire and
Rescue Service currently is made up of 81 staff, including firefighters, officers, administration and maintenance personnel.
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Pictured Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian pictured at the official opening of the newly upgraded Nobber Fire Station with Deputy Thomas Byrne TD, Kells MD Cathaoirleach Cllr. Eugene Cassidy,
County Meath’s seven fire stations are located in Navan, Trim, Kells, Dunshaughlin, Ashbourne, Oldcastle and Nobber.
RACISM IN IRELAND MORE OBVIOUS THAN EVER
By Christine O’Mahony
As somebody who is Black and used to work in a college, I have seen first hand the racism directed towards Black people. I have seen security guards break up groups of Black friends due to their own prejudice and I have seen lecturers blog and tweet about the Black community and facing no repercussions. There also seems to be an obsession with filming Black people hanging out and claiming it is “gang activity”. Meanwhile, the Kinahans and other names in crime across the country are given a form of celebrity status. Go to the comment section about a Black person and you will see vile racist abuse, go to the comment section about Gerry the Hutch, and you will see people praising him and hoping that he enjoys his time in Spain.
Racism is prejudice, discrimination or antagonism by an individual, community or institution against a person or people on the basis of their membership of a particular racial or ethnic group, typically one that is a minority or marginalised. Like most countries, racism is present in Ireland. Although Ireland was once colonised by British forces, our tragic history which led to forced immigration, has done little to change the attitude of those who are racist towards refugees and asylum seekers. Refugees and asylum seekers are not
the only marginalised group in Ireland that are victims. The Irish Travelling and Roma Community have also suffered.
As Irish Traveller Activist, Rose Marie Maughan once said, “racism against the Travelling Community, seems to be the only acceptable racism in Ireland”. In many ways, Maughan is correct. There have been talks of Fine Gael Ministers introducing hate crime legislation that also covers hate speech, but it is quite ironic, given that some in their own party denied Travellers access to Traveller accommodation.
Painting every Traveller under the same brush has led to this institutional racism not only in Ireland, but also in the UK, a Labour politician, Charlotte Nichols, who claimed she was an “ally” to the Traveller and Roma community, pledged that she wanted Traveller incursions if people kept supporting her. You wouldn’t dream of saying that about any other community. I always thought, in this day and age, that those who included blatant racism on their campaign materials, must belong to the far right. I was wrong.
Speaking of institutional racism, that is essentially what the direct provision system is for asylum seekers. It has been described as “state sanctioned child poverty and exclusion” and many experts believe that
the system is a complete violation of human rights. The government has always stood over the direct provision system and were only convinced to move towards ending it when they went into coalition with the Green Party.
However, before we think of the Green Party as saviours, it is currently Green Party policy that is leading to hundreds of asylum seekers becoming homeless as there is no room for asylum seekers who are Black and Brown as they have to accommodate Ukrainians. The government from the get-go inadvertently created this divide and conquer among two sets of refugees.
The far right does exist in Ireland. The government selfishly did not treat them as a threat, as they didn’t think they would win any elections. However, victims of their abuse can see that they don’t need a seat in government to be abusive. Not only do they target asylum seekers, but they also target the LGBT+ community, women, the disabled community, those that identify as left and politicians. For example, LGBT+ activist, Izzy Kamikaze, was hit on the head by a pole by a National Party member, leading to a head injury, secondly, Sinn Féin TD, Martin Kenny, found his car burnt by far right members, because he supported refugees, and thirdly a direct provision
centre was set on fire by a far right member as it was reported that it would be housing asylum seekers. They have managed to radicalise local ordinary people to support their cause in opposing refugees and asylum seekers, as seen in East Wall, Ballymun, Navan and Mullingar.
With a triple hit of the cost of living, housing, and homeless crisis all at once, there has been a need for some to find a group to blame it on. Mix in an abundance of misinformation online, a government who says they will do something about it without actually doing, and an influx of Ukraine refugees fleeing a war, what you have is a recipe for racism. All they have to do is forget to mention the 1.4 million Irish living abroad
and the 50 million with Irish ancestry. The far right have tried to convince everyone that any refugee residing in Ireland is a danger to friends and family. I have unfortunately seen ordinary locals repeating these same lies without any proof. Like Travellers, if somebody in the asylum seeker/refugee community does something wrong, it means that everyone gets painted under the same brush.
Racism in Ireland is not just online cyberbullying, it is verbal, violent, institutional and dangerous. Many Irish can be ignorant of the fact that racism is ripe in their own country. In Ireland we like to compare ourselves to other countries, but by minimising the racism that victims face in Ireland, by comparing it to big and
powerful countries like the USA, it is not helping at all to solve the racism issues in Ireland. Thankfully we don’t have to worry about being shot if we ring the doorbell of a Conservative Republican here in Ireland, but People of Colour have had to move their homes due to rocks being thrown at them, racist graffiti, protests, violence abuse and threatening letters.
It will take a while before we can really say that Ireland as a whole, has a “cead mile fáilte” attitude. Luckily the majority are on the side of diversity and an Ireland for All, as seen in the recent protest in Dublin. However, the far right are slowly radicalising the supportive base and we need to ensure that we counter their misinformation and lies.
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MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL HOST SUCCESSFUL “RUBBISH
FILM FESTIVAL” FOR TRANSITION YEAR STUDENTS
Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian thanked all of the Transition Year Students from across Meath, Dublin City, Kildare, Wicklow, Wexford and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown for their participation in the Rubbish Film Festival in 2023 at a Screening and Awards event in the Solstice Arts Centre, Navan on May 3.
The Rubbish Film Festival started as a Meath based initiative, with Meath County Council and Createschool in 2015, it has continued to grow and
is now being undertaken by TY students across the region. The project invited TY students to take part in a 2-day workshop learning to brainstorm ideas, develop scripts, film and edit a 1 minute with an environmental theme –Climate, Biodiversity, Food, Water, Marine, Lifestyle, Waste, Litter etc. and the movies participate in the Rubbish Film Festival in each County and now on a national level also.
Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nick Killian noted that “Young
people have a vested interest in looking after our environment, a wise person once said, ‘We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children and how right they were”.
Continuing the Cathaoirleach added “Thankfully in recent years our understanding of the importance of our relationship with mother earth has grown and it is safe to say that we now understand how important it is to protect the planet on which we live. There
IRELAND AND UK SUBMIT JOINT EURO 2028 BID
By Eoin Ryan
Ireland and the UK have submitted a joint bid for the 2028 European Championship with 10 shortlisted stadiums revealed.
Matches would take place in Dublin’s Aviva stadium, Belfast’s Casement Park, Glasgow’s Hampden Park, Cardiff’s Principality stadium, Everton Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Manchester’s Etihad Stadium, London’s Wembley stadium, Birmingham’s Villa Park, and Newcastle’s St James’ park.
Croke Park is not among the proposed venues despite its capacity of 82,300, the largest in Ireland, and the GAA saying it was “happy to explore” proposals for the stadium to be used.
Dublin’s Aviva stadium is the Republic of Ireland’s sole stadium proposed for the bid on the shortlist.
Casement park is included despite still
waiting on redevelopment having lain dormant since 2013 and it is unclear where funding for this will come from. It would be the only venue in Northern Ireland large enough to host Euro 2028 group stages with a proposed capacity of 34,000.
The UK-Ireland bid faces competition from Turkey, with a decision set to be made by the UEFA’s executive committee in September this year.
Sports Minister and Local Fianna Fáil TD, Thomas Byrne, has confirmed the Irish Government’s support for the submission of a final bid by the FAI for the co-hosting of EURO 2028 by Ireland and the UK.
“Hosting Euro 2028 in Ireland would be a tremendous occasion not just for football but for the region and the whole country,” Minister Thomas Byrne said. “From a sporting point of view, it represents an enormous opportunity for football’s development in Ireland and to leave a lasting legacy in this regard.”
has never been so much emphasis on or investment in waste management, recycling, litter, biodiversity, fast fashion, climate action, renewable energy, sustainability, marine and air pollution. We have the budget, we have the tools, we have the knowledge and the solutions – But we must pick up the pace.”
This message was echoed in the 1-minute movies created by TY students across each
of the counties. Ashbourne Community School took the top prize in Meath, with their challenging movie on Fast Fashion, Colaiste na Mi took the well-deserved runner up prize with their thought-provoking movie
‘Morning Routine’ and Boyne Community School won the award for Best Poster – ‘Tree of Life’.
Kildare Community School won the overall National Award, with Ashbourne’s
Fast Fashion taking the runner up spot. The National Poster Award was won by Monkstown CBC. All of the movies and posters, together with past entries will be available on Rubbish Film Festival website www. rubbishfilmfestival.com.
The project runs each year and schools who are interested in participating next year should contact environment@meathcoco. ie.
MEATH SCHOOLS TO SHARE €1.2 MILLION IN SCHOOL MAINTENANCE & IMPROVEMENTS FUNDING
Cllr. Damien ‘Reilly, has welcomed funding of €1.2 million for primary and special schools in Meath. €29m has been allocated nationwide for schools nationwide for maintenance and small-scale improvements to school buildings and grounds. Welcoming this announcement, Cllr. O’Reilly said, “he understands that such grants are a vital resource in terms of supporting the operation of local schools generally. “This funding provides flexibility to address issues at local school level
and may be used for the improvement or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture and physical education equipment, the purchase of floor coverings and window blinds and the purchase of IT related equipment. “Early payment of these grants will provide schools across Meath with a good lead in period to plan and undertake works that will support the operation of the school going into the 2023/24 school year.’’
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Ashbourne Community School
Boyne Community School
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