Local pages by Niall Gormley

Blanch Informer 25,000 copies delivered monthly

November/December 2013 • Unit 26, Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount, Dublin 12 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie

Blanchardstown • Castleknock • Carpenterstown • Ongar • Littlepace • Huntstown

€13m for national indoor sports arena

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World-class facilities including an indoor athletics track, national gymnastics centre and a multi-sport court It has been announced that Dublin West is set to receive a substantial investment to construct a state-of-the-art national indoor sports arena Dublin West TD and Minister for By Paul O'Connell Social Protection Joan Burton recently confirmed that funding has been secured to allow construction in the region of 130 construction work to commence on the National jobs and up to 20 long-term jobs, and Indoor Sports Arena at the National I will be working to ensure that the local area benefits from these jobs.” Sports Campus in Dublin 15. It is believed that the project will The Government is set to provide €13 million which will allow work deliver world-class facilities includto commence on the project, which ing an indoor athletics track, national Minister Burton insists will be of gymnastics centre and a multi-sport great local benefit and will bring court. “These will be splendid additions much needed employment to the to what is already a fantastic camDublin West area. “This project will provide a very pus, with a large number of major welcome local jobs boost in addition sporting bodies now on site or in the to the major sporting boost a national process of locating at Abbotstown”, indoor arena will provide”, she stat- she said. The Minister finished by reiterated. Burton added that she will be ing her belief that the project will be doing everything in her power to a massive feather in the cap of the guarantee the jobs created from the Dublin West area, stating: “It is a project will go to people from the tremendous asset right in the centre area of West Dublin. “It will create of Dublin 15, and this announcement

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will enhance its contribution to the local community in both sporting and economic terms.” The Indoor Sports Arena project will join the existing National Aquatic Centre on the grounds of the National Sports Campus, which opened in 2003 and is under the remit of the National Sports Campus Development Authority. It is Ireland’s 3rd most popular fee-paying attraction and it houses Ireland’s biggest individual swimming lessons programme. In addition to this, it has over 5,400 members and has won numerous major awards over the last three years. In 2012 it hosted pre-Olympic training camps for teams from 13 different countries, including the water polo champions Hungary and the synchronised swimming team from the USA.

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The Informer

Blanch In Brief... Over 1,000 illegal 'Cash for Cars'signs removed by council

Fingal County Council have removed in excess of one thousand illegal 'Cash for Cars' signs from the Fingal area of the past eighteen months. The revelation came at a recent meeting of the council after Councillor Eoghan O’Brien inquired about what measures had been taken in relation to signs advertising 'Cash for Cars' that are “consistently appearing all over Fingal and beyond.” Councillor O’Brien also asked how much money the council had spent to date removing the signs. In response, the Fingal County Manager agreed that there was a “proliferation of 'Cash for Cars' signs in the Fingal administrative area over the last 12 – 18 months.” The manager stated that during this time staff from the Environmental Department (Litter Wardens) and more recently the Operations Department have removed in excess of 1,000 of these illegal signs. On the question of cost to date, the manager stated that it was not possible to give a figure because work is carried out as part of the council staff’s daily duties. The County Manager did insist however that every effort was being made to combat the problem. “Fingal County Council Inspectorate Division has made every effort to trace the people who erect these signs in an effort to secure convictions under the Litter Pollution Act 1997, including contacting the mobile phone numbers on the signs. "To date, all of these numbers relate to unregistered and untraceable mobile phones which are easily disposed of. Fingal County Council will act on any information which it receives that may lead to a successful prosecution in relation to this matter.”

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B.A.P committed to working with young people affected by cuts

A spokesperson for Blanchardstown Area Partnership has encouraged young people affected by the recent cuts in social welfare payments to engage with them in an effort to find a way back into the workforce. CEO Linda Curran insists that job placements and internships can provide a stepping stone for future employment for young people. Referring to the recent cuts, Ms Curran told the Informer: “We have noted the recent changes in the budget, and remain committed to working with young people in the Dublin 15 area to make sure that they have access to training and employment opportunities through our local employment service and the Tús Initiative. Access to work placements and internships can provide a first step to employment, and we would encourage young people to positively engage with us if they are referred to Tús by the Department of Social Protection.” Ms Curran refused to speculate if the cuts in social welfare payments would motivate young people to either take up unpaid internships or emigrate. She did however back the current internship programme and insisted that the internships provided by B.A.P have almost always delivered eventual full-time employment. “We believe that internships are an acceptable route into employment, and provide young people, sometimes for the first time, with an insight into the world of work. Here in the Partnership we have provided a number of internships over the past few years and all but one have led to full time employment because of the skills they gain and the access to employment supports that we can provide…” Blanchardstown Area Partnership was originally

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n Gaisce Gold Awards. Pictured are sisters Treasa, left, and Alma Kelly from Donegal who through their local church choir, got involved with the production of a CD called 'Buiochas' in aid of Crumlin Childrens Hospital, which raised over e50,000. Photo Mark Stedman/Photocall Ireland

established in November 1995 and is one of 52 Local Development Companies operating throughout Ireland. B.A.P is responsible for identifying and responding t, local needs through consultation and by working with community groups.

Blanch 'stop-and-search' leads to cannabis grow-house discovery

Following on from a recent 'stop-and-search' of a

vehicle in the Blanchardstown area by Gardaí from the Dublin Traffic Corps, a house was searched in the Drogheda area. The search uncovered a cannabis cultivation operation, yielding a quantity of cannabis plant and herb with a potential street value of approximately €600,000. They were questioned in connection with the incident and were due to appear before a recent sitting of Blanchardstown District Court.

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Raheny Informer 15,000 copies delivered monthly

November/December 2013 • Unit 26, Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount, Dublin 12 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie

Raheny • Clontarf • Dollymount • Artane • Killester • Kilbarrack • Edenmore

Raheny tiger kidnapping Manchester Calling trial hears evidence

Men charged with the robbery of almost €2.28m in cash The trial of four men accused of abducting a Raheny family in 2005 as part of a tiger kidnapping operation has begun in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court this month. By Ed Diggins 66 year old Christopher Corcoran with an address at Bayside Boulevard North, Sutton and Mark presented with a detailed but comFarrelly (42), Moatview Court plex series of phone records which together with Jason Kavanagh (39) Gardaí believe link three devices and Alan Costello (50) have all found in the aftermath of the crime pleaded not guilty to the five to associates of the group. The charges that they are each faced court also heard how a sum of with. Three other men were also money in the region of €26,000 identified as being part of the kid- was discovered in a suitcase 6 weeks later at an address in Ongar. nap group but are not on trial. During the search, Gardaí found It is alleged that on the 13th and 14th of March 2005, the four men a receipt for almost €10,000 for undertook an act of false imprison- the purchase of a car and the sales ing of Securicor worker Mr Paul man involved in the transaction Richardson and three members of gave evidence that it was paid for his family at an address in Ashcroft, in cash in bundles of €20, someRaheny. The men are also charged thing he described as unusual. with the robbery of almost €2.28m Testimony was given involving a in cash from Securicor Security separate car purchase of €10,000 also around the same time that was Services Ireland Ltd. During the trial the jury has been paid for in bundles of €50 notes.

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Details of how the group had heavy personal links to each other over many years were presented to the court with some of them described as lifelong friends. €6000 in cash was discovered at a rented premises of a man who was found to have had multiple phone interactions with two of the accused on the night of the robber. He subsequently admitted to lying to Gardaí about the nature of these calls. The trial continues under the leadership of Judge Martin Nolan at time of going to press. Meanwhile a 32 year old male was arrested at an address on the Malahide Road this week to face charges surrounding a separate tiger kidnapping that took place in 2011 where an An Post employee and his family were also abducted from their home in County Louth.

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The Informer

Raheny In Brief... Double boost for local kids

Almost 6400 children in the north Dublin region are to benefit from the roll out of free GP care announced in last month’s budget. Figures reveal that of the 11135 children under the age of five in the locality, 6347 will now be eligible for free GP healthcare under the new initiative. The remaining 4788 children are already covered under existing medical card arrangements. The announcement was greeted as a historic and significant development by local public figures. Meanwhile multiple schools in the locality are set to benefit from new funding schemes announced this week by the Department Of Education. Under the Minor Works Scheme, almost 500 schools across the country will receive grants to carry out repair and improvement works such as roof, window, electrical and mechanical upgrades. It is projected that qualifying schools will get a base grant of €5,500 with a further allocation of €18.50 per pupil with additional grants for special needs of €74 per pupil. It is the first time in three years that the funding is available and in a further boost it was confirmed that every school in the City will receive the payment in the next two weeks.

LAMA community nomination for Clontarf

There is some great news for the people of Clontarf this month with the announcement that the locality has been nominated for the “Best Connected Community” award at an upcoming national awards ceremony. The LAMA Community and Council Awards ceremony 2014 will take place on January 25th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry and is hosted by RTÉ’s

with Ed Diggins Miriam O’Callaghan. With 26 different categories in total the awards recognise community and councils, giving them national recognition for projects and developments that sometimes slip under the radar. Clontarf.ie is a joint venture linking together the Clontarf residents association and local business and the highly popular website has been identified and nominated for its use of social media to promote community initiatives. The CRA has invited anybody who uses the site to help them prepare for the event by submitting how the website assists them stay in touch with all things Clontarf. “We are currently submitting support material for the nomination to the judging team. If you would like to submit a testimonial for Clontarf.ie explaining how the website has helped you stay connected, please email us at info@clontarf.ie” the association said.

Darndale regeneration project postponed

Locals have reacted with dismay at the news that the final part of the Darndale regeneration project will now not go ahead as originally planned. Minister for Housing Jan O’Sullivan was asked this month to give a commitment on when the Buttercup Estate project would be approved, however she advised that it would not proceed due to a lack of funding from the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government for the Dublin City Council. “Having regard to the existing high level of commitments in respect of the regeneration and remedial works projects currently underway in Dublin City and elsewhere, my Department is not in a position at this time to approve funding for further estate-wide

remedial works in the Darndale area,” outlined Minister O’Sullivan. “I am however, keeping the matter under review and I will consider the potential to progress remedial works in Darndale in the context of the remedial works programme for 2014,” she said. Demolition works were originally scheduled to commence four weeks ago and once completed, the council had committed to building new houses to replace them.

Vandalism a huge concern at Clongriffin

Vandalism and antisocial behaviour in Clongriffin focusing specifically on the train station, continues to be a huge problem for the area the local residents association has said this month. The association has called on the authorities to put

in place the necessary measures to prevent the current spate of destruction that threatens the future operation of the station. Recently extensive damage was done to the lifts at the station, which was then added to after a contractor had begun to carry out repairs. There have been many incidents of anti-social behaviour in recent weeks which locals believe poses a risk to the safety of anybody who uses the station. Irish Rail have advised that security at the station is currently under focus with a view to having a more visible presence on site and that as a temporary measure, they are installing security shutters on the lift structures to prevent further damage. Meanwhile figures from the Gardaí have revealed that burglaries in the local area are down by almost 15% in comparison to the same period in 2012.

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Merry Christmas and Alo a Very Happy New Year to All New Best wishes FINIAN MCGRATH T.D. (Ind)

“LIVING IN THE COMMUNITY – WORKING FOR THE COMMUNITY”

Contact Details: Constituency Office: Le Chéile Community Centre, Donnycarney For appointments: 01 851 1530 Dail Office: 01 6183031 Email: finian.mcgrath@oireachtas.ie Website: www.finianmcgrath.ie Twitter: @finianmcgrathtd

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The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn said “It is a great honour to be able to propose two of Dublin’s most inspirational citizens for our highest award, the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin. Brian and Fr. Peter are from different generations but they share much in common. They are both inspirational leaders. They set a remarkable example to us all by the

way they apply themselves to their challenges. They are people who lead by the example they set. In their own way and in their own fields, they are both individuals who walk the walk. "I am delighted they have agreed to accept this great honour and I know that all Dubliners will be both proud of, and find inspiration into the future from, these two remarkable men. They are and will continue to be great ambassadors for Dublin.” Personal challenges

Fr. Peter McVerry SJ has campaigned tirelessly for the rights of Dublin’s young homeless people for more than 40 years. The Peter McVerry Trust provides a wide range of services to young homeless people and Fr. McVerry has always used his voice to speak on their behalf. He approaches each individual he encounters with immense respect and works tirelessly to help them overcome the often immense personal challenges they face. Player and captain

Brian O’Driscoll is one of Ireland’s best ever rugby union players and has frequently been named as the top player in the world during his playing career. His achievements as player and captain for Leinster, Ireland and the British and Irish Lions

include Under 19 World Cup, League Cups, Heineken Cups, Triple Crowns and the historic Grand Slam in 2009. He is one of the most respected rugby players in the game today. Dublin City Council is proud to honour him as a player in the blue of Leinster and the green of Ireland. Ancient privileges

Amongst the ancient privileges afforded to a Freeman or Freewoman is the right to bring goods into Dublin through the city gates, without paying customs duties; the right to pasture sheep on common ground within the city boundaries; and the right to vote in municipal and parliamentary elections. Ancient Duties include: Each Freeman / Freewoman has to be ready to defend the city from attack. A Freeman / Freewoman can be called on to join a city militia at short notice. According to a law passed in 1454, any merchant who becomes a Freeman/Freewoman must possess the following: A coat of mail; A bow; A light helmet; A sword of his/her own. A law passed in 1465, states that each Freeman / Freewoman has to provide himself/herself with a longbow (of his own length) made of yew, witch-hazel or ash. He/she must also have twelve arrows made of the same wood.

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Marathon Woman!

Liz has relied on crutches since she was struck down by a neurological disorder

A 22-year-old Rathfarnham woman has become the first person in Ireland to complete a marathon on crutches. Liz O'Brien completed this year's Dublin Marathon in just under eight hours 30 minutes. Liz has relied on crutches since Liz started training for the event she was struck down by a neuroin June. "My hands and wrists were logical disorder on 2nd January really, really sore afterwards but I was just so glad to finish it," says 2012. She attributes her unshakeable Liz. "I'm delighted to have achieved confidence and determination to her involvement in the Irish Girl Guides what I set out to do." A former Loreto Beaufort pupil, since the age of five. "It has been a tremendously positive experience Liz was accompanied throughout the circuit by her father, John for me and there's no way I'd have had the confidence to enter the marO'Brien. "Around the third or fourth mile I wondered what I was doing athon if it wasn't for my Guiding experiences," she says. but when I got to halfway I reckLiz is using her achievement to oned I was going to be ok," says Liz. raise funds for Rathfarnham Rangers "I became grouchy around the 20 mile mark but I was never tempted and Down Syndrome Ireland. To to give up. I was absolutely adamant donate to Liz's My Charity account, I was going to finish it - no matter log onto www.mycharity.ie/event/ liz_obriens_event what."

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Santry Informer 15,000 copies delivered monthly

November/December 2013 • Unit 26, Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount, Dublin 12 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie

Santry • Kilmore • Beaumont • Whitehall • Griffith Avenue

Wildlife put at risk following oil spill

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Four badly contaminated swans were found to be amongst the injured animals An oil spill at one of north Dublin’s leading parks has sparked fear that animals and wildlife now face a serious threat to their well-being. At least four badly contaminated By Ed Diggins swans were found to be amongst the injured animals at the nearby life in the region. It urged the pubStardust Memorial Park in Coolock lic to be vigilant about safe control when locals noticed that a pond in of all hazardous material and not to the area had become seriously place animals in unnecessary daninfiltrated with diesel. ger. They believe that other swans, A small river flows into the pond, birds and wildlife may have been adding to concerns that ducks and contaminated but fled the area and mallards are also under threat are concerned at their safety if not though the Dublin City Council located. have stressed that they believe the Top class contamination has since been conThankfully however for the ones tained. that have been rescued to date, it is Unnecessary danger hoped that they will make a full The Dublin Society for recovery. This is due in no small Prevention of Cruelty to Animals part to the top class cleaning and said in a statement that they were treatment facility at the organisaconcerned at the development and tion's head office. highlighted the risk that spillages The injured birds are expected to pose not just to Swans but all wild- have to remain in care for up to six

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weeks but are said to be responding well to their recuperation programme. "They're in very good conditions now, we obviously caught them in an early stage," said DSPCA spokesperson Gillian Bird. "But we are obviously having to wash the animals - which can be quite stressful - and hoping they haven't swallowed too much of the diesel, because that's the main damaging thing," she added. Full investigation

The cause of the spill remains unclear at this time though it is believed that the council have identified where the spillage originated from and a full investigation is underway. It is believed that a pipe may have burst in the region and the fuel found its way into the water stream through this.

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The Informer

Santry In Brief... Double boost for local kids

Almost 6400 children in the north Dublin region are to benefit from the roll out of free GP care announced in last month’s budget. Figures reveal that of the 11135 children under the age of five in the locality, 6347 will now be eligible for free GP healthcare under a new initiative announced in last month’s budget. The remaining 4788 children are already covered under existing medical card arrangements. The announcement was greeted as a historic and significant development by local public figures. Meanwhile multiple schools in the locality are set to benefit from new funding schemes announced this week by the Department Of Education. Under the Minor Works Scheme, almost 500 schools across the country will receive grants to carry out repair and improvement works such as roof, window, electrical and mechanical upgrades. It is projected that qualifying schools will get a base grant of €5,500 with a further allocation of €18.50 per pupil while special needs pupils will receive €74. It is the first time in three years that the funding is available and in a further boost it was confirmed that every school in the City will receive the payment in the next two weeks.

The case of the stolen monkey

A northside man with 31 previous convictions appeared in court twice this week to face three separate charges including possession of a stolen monkey and an illegal stun gun. 29 year old Paul Murtagh first appeared in the Dublin District Court to face charges after Gardaí found a rare monkey worth €1500 during a search of his car last October in the East Wall area of Dublin. He also faced charges in relation to a 2009 incident

with Ed Diggins when he was found in possession of a stun gun. He pleaded guilty to both offences. Gardaí acknowledged however that Murtagh was cooperative in arrest and may not have been fully aware that the monkey was stolen. Judge Bryan Smyth ordered Murtagh to carry out 80 hours of community service in lieu of a four month jail term for the involvement in the theft while imposing a further 120 hours service as opposed to a six month jail sentence for the stun gun offence. Two days later however, Murtagh was before the Swords District Court this time on charges of driving without insurance. Gardaí had outlined how Murtagh was stopped on April 17th without insurance on the Malahide Road and again on September 2nd in Swords. Judge Dermot Dempsey remanded the accused on a bond of €200, adjourning the case until January 27th.

Ryanair jobs boost

Ryanair has given a welcome boost to the local economy this week with the announcement of a major expansion of their operations at Dublin airport. Under the move nine new routes will begin services to and from the airport including destinations such as Bucharest, Bari, Prague and Marrakesh, bringing their overall route availability from the facility to 85. It also announced that they will increase frequency and capacity on eight other routes bringing 700,000 new passengers to a total volume of 8.25million per year. Ryanair claim that the expansion will result directly in the creation of 300 jobs through cabin crew, services and support staff as well as 1000 indirect jobs in north Dublin, Shannon and Knock.

Local baby Liam appears in charity calendar

The Down Syndrome Centre has just launched their first charity calendar with a local touch included! The calendar features the portraits of 34 children with Down syndrome from all over Ireland showcasing their abilities and among the talented bunch is Liam Caseiro from Santry. The calendar is titled "I'm Able2" and all funds raised will go towards opening Irelands only centre dedicated to children with Down Syndrome. To purchase a calendar or to find out more about the Down Syndrome Centre you can visit their website www.downsyndromecentre.ie/shop .The calendars will also be available in Avoca stores across

Ireland in the coming weeks and are priced at €7.99.

Home Farm hits 85

Meanwhile, local sporting institution Home Farm FC recently celebrated 85 years in operation by officially opening their refurbished clubhouse and grounds. The event was attended by Irish legend Johnny Giles, as well as FAI CEO John Delaney and Minister Michael Ring. A special invitational under 16 tournament involving Sunderland, Linfield and Birmingham as well as the clubs DDSL side was set up to mark the occasion.

Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year to All Best wishes FINIAN MCGRATH T.D. (Ind) “LIVING IN THE COMMUNITY – WORKING FOR THE COMMUNITY”

The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

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Marathon Woman!

Liz has relied on crutches since she was struck down by a neurological disorder

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Swords • MALAHIDE

Celtic Rider wins the Fingal Enterprise Award

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The company specialises in BMW and Harley Davidson motorcycle rental for tourists Celtic Rider, a motorbike rental company, has won the Fingal Enterprise County Enterprise Board, was the Award 2013. The company picked up the award at a ceremony in County Hall, first to congratulate Celtic Rider on Swords in October as part of the annual Fingal Enterprise Week. their award win. He said: “Celtic Rider has carved out a very successCeltic Rider was set up by Paul By Paul Cantwell ful niche for itself within the tourism Rawlins in 2007. Paul’s passion for industry, opening up a whole new motorcycles started in the late 1970s, The award was presented by Joe market in this country for motorcywhen he worked for P&T (Posts & Telegraphs) as a dispatch rider deliv- Harford, Chairman of Fingal County cle-based tourism. By cleverly marering urgent telegrams. Now employ- Enterprise Board at a high profile keting their company to potential ing five staff at the base in Ballycoolin networking event with RTE’s Keelin customers at international trade near Blanchardstown, his company Shanley at the Fingal County shows, Celtic Rider has managed to specialises in BMW and Harley Council’s offices in Swords to mark grow its turnover by over 90% last Fingal Enterprise Week last month. year, which is a remarkable achieveDavidson motorcycle rental for tourOisin Geoghegan, CEO of Fingal ment.” ists, with self-guided tour packages ranging from three to thirteen days. Grant-aided by the Fingal County Enterprise Board, the company Figures released from the Central Statistics Office for the September live attracts motorcycle enthusiasts to register reveal a drop of 5.9% for the Swords region (including Donabate Ireland from North America, & Portrane). The total unemployment number is 4,380, down from 4,653 Australia, Germany and Holland. in August. The two other finalists shortlisted The CSO figures show youth unemployment at 15% of the total unemfor this year’s Fingal Enterprise ployment figure in Swords (676 people under 25 years of age). “It is important to see the numbers on the live register trending downAwards were Bernie Cryan and Francis Leavey from Fab Cow wards. We are seeing that over the past year and it is my belief that this Design in Malahide and Noel Carroll trend will continue,” says Brendan Ryan TD (Lab). “We are still a long way away from where we need to be in terms of from Platinum Paper Ltd in employment levels however we are facing in the right direction.” Blanchardstown.

Unemployment down in Fingal

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The Informer

Swords In Brief... Pyrite scandal gets funding

Up to €10m in funding will be provided for the Pyrite scandal which has affected many residents in north Dublin. Minister for the Environment, Mr Phil Hogan announced the measures as part of a coordinated effort to tackle what he asserts is another building scar from the Celtic Tiger era. Mr Hogan was quick to point out that this is not a compensation scheme and told RTE News: "This is a scheme of last resort. This is not a compensation scheme. This is to help people who through no fault of their own were unable to get remediation up to now," he said.

Swords movement seeking local entertainment talent

Swords Un-Anonymous is a movement which has been set up to explore and share the musical, comic and poetic talents of Fingal. The initiative hopes to offer a place to perform where one can feel comfortable in a friendly and happy atmosphere. Each event brings new faces and new sounds. The organisation appeals to people who love music, poetry and good company and appeal to come and join then on the second Thursday of each month upstairs in The Pound Pub, Swords at 8.30pm. Contact Ken on 0866008313 for more details on these events.

Swords dole fraud man avoids prison

A Dublin man who falsely claimed over €23,000 in Jobseekers Allowance has been given a suspended sentence after the court heard he was trying to repay the money with his legitimate social welfare pay-

with Paul Cantwell ments, the Irish Times report. Michael Cawley (37) was charged with 116 counts of stealing money from the Department of Social Protection by making false claims every week for about three years. Cawley of Rivermeade Avenue, Swords pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to six sample counts of stealing money from the department at Malahide Post Office between February 20th, 2009 and May 26th, 2011. Judge Leonie Reynolds heard Cawley has now made arrangements to repay the money weekly through a deduction in his current social welfare payments. She was also told that Cawley has the offer of a job as a labourer in the near future. Judge Reynolds imposed a three-year sentence suspended for two years on condition that he continues the repayments and is of good behaviour. On a previous hearing date, Detective Garda Jonathan Hayes said Cawley claimed a total of €23,767 by using another man’s social welfare card and claiming to be that man. Cathal McGreal BL, defending, said that after his arrest in July 2011 his client told gardai he would pay all the money back and that he had brought €400 to court. Counsel said that this was significant because ‘ironically’ the money was coming out of his social welfare payments. Mr McGreal said Cawley, a father of four, owed money because of a previous cocaine addiction. He said he also had issues with alcohol addiction. Detective Garda Hayes said that after a report from the Department of Social Protection, gardai searched Cawley’s home and found a social welfare card in the name of Thomas Mongan. Cawley told gardai he had met Mr Mongan at a wedding. He said Mr Mongan said he was going to

Bria to

Brian O’Dris be awarded th The Lord Ma was warmly subsequently meeting. The Dublin ackno ients to the li bestows hono The Freedom both men in e Brian O’Dr join an illu Freewomen John F. Ken n Gaisce Gold Awards. Pictured are sisters Treasa, left, and Alma Kelly from Donegal who through their local church Mandela, Mo choir, got involved with the production of a CD called 'Buiochas' in aid of Crumlin Childrens Hospital, which raised over and Aung San e50,000. Photo Mark Stedman/Photocall Ireland Louis Le B the UK and Cawley began using his card to sign on next year along with class sizes remaining unchanged the last peop the City of D were given local approval by Alan Farrell TD. after that. Mr Farrell expressed that the funding for such a The court heard that Cawley has 23 previous conI victions, including one for falsely using an docu- scheme would benefit Swords (and Fingal in general) Lord Mayo ment, one for burglary, five for theft and a number of as the population demographic profile has a high a great hono number of young children in the area. road traffic offences. Dublin’s mo “This is a significant step towards ensuring equal- highest awar ity in our health system as up to 240,000 families are City of Dubl Local approval for free GP care expected to benefit from the scheme. Our goal different gen The decisions by the government to announce free remains free GP care for all and we will continue to common. The GP care for children aged five years and under from work hard to deliver,” said Mr Farrell. They set a rem

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The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry are to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Dublin. The Lord Mayor’s nomination of the two men was warmly welcomed by all Councillors and subsequently ratified by a Dublin City Council meeting. The award of Freedom of the City of Dublin acknowledges the contribution of recipients to the life of Ireland’s capital city. It also bestows honour on important visitors to Dublin. The Freedom of the City will be awarded to both men in early 2014. Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry will join an illustrious list of Freemen and Freewomen including former US presidents John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, U2, Kevin Heffernan and Aung San Suu Kyi. Louis Le Broquy and Thomas Kinsella were unchanged the last people to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Dublin in 2007. l TD. for such a Inspirational citizens l in general) Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn said “It is has a high a great honour to be able to propose two of

uring equalfamilies are Our goal continue to

Dublin’s most inspirational citizens for our highest award, the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin. Brian and Fr. Peter are from different generations but they share much in common. They are both inspirational leaders. They set a remarkable example to us all by the

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Lucan and Palmerstown

Motorists to care in new road safety campaign

Manchester Calling

"Speed determines the outcome in 100% of crashes, whatever their cause"

Dublin motorists are being urged to be more vigilant when driving over the coming months, in order to reduce the number of deaths and injuries suffered on Irish roads. Speaking at the recent launch of the By Paul O'Connell Casualty Reduction Implementation years has yielded a significant reducPlan, Superintendent Aidan Reid said: "Our casualty reduction campaign is tion in serious injuries and fatalities. in effect a collision reduction strategy However, 2013 has seen an overall and our aim is to prevent collisions increase in road fatalities in the from happening in the first place. This Dublin region; 14 to date which is an makes the roads safer for us all. All increase of 6 on this time last year. Casualty Reduction the local authorities, public transport The Implementation campaign for October providers, National Roads Authority, and November is aimed at reducing Road Safety Authority are playing deaths and serious injuries. their part in this campaign. The campaign will be implemented "The publicising of the top 10 on a 24/7 basis. The plan will receive speeding locations, full use of both multi-agency support from transport marked and unmarked robot safety authorities, local authorities and camera vans and LUAS red light runtransport stakeholders. Each organisaning operations will assist us in our tion will contribute in an effort to goal. The public also have a big part make sure roads are safer for all road to play and together we can save lives users. and reduce the number of casualWelcoming the campaign Mr Noel ties.” Brett said: "In Ireland excessive speed Chief Superintendent Reid contin- is directly responsible for one in three ued: "People make mistakes and these fatal collisions, over one half of all mistakes cause collisions and cost single vehicle collisions and is the lives. If we work harder and pay more primary contributor to vulnerable attention to safety on the road, we can road user fatalities. Speed determines turn that into saving lives. This cam- the outcome in 100% of crashes, paign is summed up in the poster - whatever their cause. This is a law of Dublin has the safest Roads of all EU physics. Capital Cities.” "Higher speeds result in more The implementation of the casualty severe injury. This is particularly true reduction campaign over the past four for occupants of light vehicles, when

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The Informer

Lucan In Brief... National Bravery Awards at Farmleigh

The National Bravery Awards took place recently at Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park. Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett, TD, was in attendance and presented. The National Bravery Awards were established in 1947 to provide suitable recognition by the State for deeds of bravery. The Council, which is chaired by the Ceann Comhairle, includes the Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, the Chairman of the Irish Red Cross, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, the Lord Mayor of Cork, the President of the Association of City and County Councils and the Garda Commissioner. During the course of the evening at Farmleigh House, the Ceann Comhairle, presented a total of 21 awards in recognition of outstanding acts of bravery.

Bethany Bereavement Support Group

The Bethany Group are available to listen to or just to ‘be there’ for anyone who is feeling lonely or lost following the death of a loved one. Bethany meet at the Parish Centre on the second Monday of each month 10.30am – 11.30am, and also on the fourth Thursday of each month, 8pm – 9pm. For further information contact the Parish Centre on 01-6217041.

Crosscare’s Care Local - Plate Pals Mealtime Companion

Crosscare's Care Local is seeking volunteers as Plate Pals Mealtime Companions, in Nursing-homes throughout Dublin with a commitment of 1-3 mealtimes per week. Plate Pals combat malnutrition and isolation among

with Paul O'Connell residents by providing valuable one-to-one assistance at mealtimes, providing gentle reminders and words of encouragement for the full hour it can take them to finish a full meal. Current openings in St. Mary’s Hospital in the Phoenix Park. To learn more, please call Peter Donnelly on 01-836 0011, ext. 135 or visit the volunteer page on Crosscare.ie

Let’s Stay Fit! Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn is delighted to announce the Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014 challengeing 200 people to participate in the 2014 Challenge. Lord Mayor Quinn said, “Road races are growing in popularity and are a great way to start a new fitness regime. I encourage young and old to take up the challenge of taking part in five of Dublin’s best road races early next year. I am particularly encouraging those who may not have done any 5k races before to take up the challenge. You can walk, jog or run and watch your fitness levels improve through the races.” All members of the Lord Mayor’s team will receive a high quality dry fit t-shirt prior to commencement of the first race and a medallion and invitation to a reception in the Mansion House on completion of all five races. To register for the 2104 Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014 log onto www.dublinsport.ie/5alive/. Registration is open from 30th October, 2013.

New exhibition at the Pearse Museum

The Pearse Museum in Rathfarnham is hosting the exhibition Patrick Pearse and 1913: The View From

Breakthrough

A Hermitage until January 2014. The exhibition features images and artefacts, which illustrate a collection of articles he originally published in the Irish Freedom newspaper. Pearse wrote about the public criticisms of Douglas Hyde’s leadership of the Gaelic League to the 1913 Lockout among other things. The articles reflect Pearse’s increasingly radical outlook and conclude with the foundation of the Irish Volunteers, an event that he celebrated as a sign that Ireland was reconnecting with its revolutionary past. Pearse also makes reference to a tragedy, which occurred on 2 September 1913 when two dilapidated tenement house on Church St. collapsed killing seven

people. He wrote that “There are tenement rooms in Dublin in which over a dozen persons live, eat and sleep. The tenement houses of Dublin are so rotten that they periodically collapse upon their inhabitants.” The Dublin Housing Inquiry was then set up in November 1913 to investigate housing conditions in Dublin. The Pearse Museum, St. Enda’s Park, Grange Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm (4pm from November) and is open daily (closed Tuesdays). The exhibition runs until 31 January 2014 and admission is free. For more info visit www.heritageireland.ie.

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Dundrum • Marley • Clonskeagh • Windy Arbour • Goatstown

Council highlights road safety with crash mock-up

Manchester Calling

An innovative way of bringing home the very real impact of car accidents Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Council recently staged a hard-hitting simulated crash to hammer home the message of road safety. The staged scenario, which took By Martin Flanagan place at UCD, involved a head-on road traffic collision involving two young drivers. The presence of Gardai, very real impact of car accidents Dublin Fire Brigade and the HSE which members of the emergency National Ambulance Service para- services must attend on a daily basis medics added to the reality of the nationwide. While collisions can have scene, which involved a female actor many causes, the one thing that all who was portrayed as having multiple serious car collisions have in common injuries, including an open head is that they destroy lives forever and place an immense burden on families wound and possible spinal injuries. The scene also involved a young and communities. This initiative is man who played the role of a teenage targeting the 18 - 24 age groups where driver who was breathalysed and accident statistics show the highest 'arrested' by Gardai. Both actors were fatality rates.” recruited from local civil defence Training exercise units, with firefighters, eager to hamHe explained that the demonstramer home the message of safe driving, tion was held to highlight the imporvolunteering to take part after carrying tance of road safety in a practical and out long shifts prior to the demonstrapublic manner. He said it served as a tion. valuable training exercise for the Immense burden emergency services that took part, According to Seamus Storan, Road while highlighting the consequences Safety Engineer of Dun Laoghaire- of a collision, the need to drive safely, Rathdown Council, the event was “an to slow down and observe speed liminnovative way of bringing home the its.

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Last year, there were 6,389 people injured on Irish roads. A total of 162 people died as a result of road accidents – 29 pedestrians, 8 cyclists, 95 car occupants, 19 motorbikers and 11 others. Thirty percent of road accident victims were aged 25. Meanwhile, Gardaí, supported by children from St. Brigid’s National School in Cabinteely brought home the road safety message to parents and motorists parking and driving by the school. Homework

Under the watchful eye of the Garda Traffic Corps, motorists received some unexpected ‘Homework for Drivers’ from the children in the form of a quiz asking where it is safe to park near the school. Gardaí also provided ‘direct advice’ to passing or parking motorists wherever was necessary. Other initiatives throughout Dún Laoghaire Rathdown will include a Rock Road and N11 road safety campaign for vulnerable road users consisting of high-viz vest and other safety equipment giveaways.

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The Informer

Dundrum In Brief... Residents invited to this year's enchanting Christmas Festival

Dundrum residents have been invited to embark on an "enchanting journey of discovery" through Dun Laoghaire this Christmas. Residents will be able to view an array of goods that will be on display as part of this year's family Christmas festival. This year's festival will feature open-air market chalets, old-world children’s amusements, firework displays, free treasure hunts, lantern processions, Santa, carol singing and much more. The festival will launch with an unmissable opening event. It will commence with the blessing of the crib outside St. Michael’s Church and then an opening ceremony at Harbour Plaza featuring a gospel choir, Santa's arrival, the Christmas lights switch on and a spectacular fireworks display over Dun Laoghaire Harbour. Further information can be found at www.christmasmarkets.com

Campaign highlights importance of responsible litter disposal

Participants of a nationwide school-driven campaign recently visited Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown to highlight the importance of responsible litter disposal. The campaign, aptly called 'Bin It!', is part of the Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT) awareness campaign. Bin It!, which is in its 7th year, aims to integrate the theme of responsible litter disposal into school curriculums. It is primarily aimed at first year students and explores littering and social responsibility. Paul Kelly, Chairman of the Gum Litter Taskforce, said: “The Bin it! campaign gives us the opportunity

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DLR Citizenship Celebration

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Council recently held its first citizenship celebration in County Hall. The aim of the event, which was part of the dlr Social Inclusion Week Programme, was to acknowledge the local residents who have recently been granted Irish Citizenship. According to dlr’s Social Inclusion Officer Rebekah Fozzard: “Integration is a very important issue for our County and is embedded within the Council’s Integration and Diversity Strategy. Everyone [at the event] has invested considerable time and energy in establishing a life for themselves and their families in Ireland.” Dil Wickremasinghe, host of Newstalk’s Global Village, was the evening’s guest speaker. Addressing those in attendance, Dill spoke of the importance of active citizenship. “You are only ‘new’ citizens for a very short amount of time. As Irish citizens we all have a responsibility to get active, follow your dreams, and participate in local democracy.” In total, over 80 people attended the event, including a number of councillors and the County Manager. The new Irish Citizens were born in countries such as Iraq, Congo, India, Zimbabwe, the Philippines, Russia, Australia, Nigeria and Ecuador.

Breakthrough

Richmond elected to chair Dundrum Area committee

Local Fine Gael Councillor Neale Richmond has been elected to chair the Dundrum Area Committee for the forthcoming political year. Commenting on his new role, Cllr Richmond said he will continue to ensure that residents throughout Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown "receive what it is due in terms of economic and social development from the council". He added: “The Committee meets twice a month and it is a great forum where councillors can resolve

the very local, practical issues that our constituents encounter every day from broken footpaths to overgrown trees to traffic congestion. It is also the forum where councillors can discuss major planning applications with officials. I also intend to invite representatives from some of the major stakeholders in our area such as UCD, Dublin Bus and Luas to appear before the Committee to discuss any upcoming developments and/or operational issues.” The Dundrum Area Committee deals with all local issues relevant to three Council Wards on the Western side of the County: Dundrum, Glencullen-Sandyford and Stillorgan.

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Dún Laoghaire • Dalkey • Killiney • Monkstown • Blackrock

Living City initiative Manchester Calling for Dún Laoghaire Award-winning housing opens on former Dun Laoghaire Golf Club The busy redevelopment of Dun Laoghaire is continuing apace with the recent announcement that Living City initiative will be extended to Dun Laoghaire as well as the official opening of the Rochdale, Honey Park housing scheme. The Living City initiative will also bring great changes to Dun By Graham Connors Laoghaire. The goal of the Initiative recent years from both the general is to encourage people and busi- economic downturn and the movenesses back into Irish cities and their ment of business from town centres hinterlands. Initially targeted at to various peripheral shopping cenGeorgian Ireland, it has been extend- tres." ed to include historic buildings built Former golf club before 1915, which is of symbolic The multi-million euro, awardimportance leading into the comwinning Honey Park housing memoration of the 1916 Rising. Dun scheme was purchased by Tuath Laoghaire is peppered with beautiful Housing from Dun Laoghaireyet neglected buildings, which, with Rathdown County Council in a the Living City initiative, steps can €13m deal. Located at the former be taken to preserve their unique Dun Laoghaire Golf Club, the characteristics and beauty. scheme is the result of work by Senator Aidan Hayden said: "This DLRCOCO, Tuath Housing and the initiative will inject a much-needed Department of the Environment, boost to the heart of Dun Laoghaire Community and Local Government. - which is currently a shadow of its There are 80 apartments in total in former self. The historic centre of the complex, the funding for 61 of Dun Laoghaire has suffered badly in which was financed through a loan

Genetically Modified Debate Green Scene - Page 4

from the Housing Finance Agency, along with State funding under the Capital Assistance Scheme and Capital Advance Leasing Facility. Tuath Housing will manage the remaining 19 apartments under a long-term lease agreement on behalf of the council yet the terms of the sale guarantees the council sole nomination rights to the 80 apartments for families and people on its housing waiting list. There are further plans for phase building in the Rochdale housing scheme. James Pike, of O’Mahony Pike Architects, said: “The highdensity mixed development has planning approval to provide some 856 houses and apartments, along with creche facilities, a supermarket, shops, cafe and a neighbourhood centre on the 78-acre site of the former Dun Laoghaire Golf Club. The scheme won first prize at last month’s biennial Irish Council for Social Housing awards, under the Mixed Communities category.

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The Informer

Dún Laoghaire In Brief... Gardai issue Homework for Drivers

Recently, drivers passing St. Brigid’s National Primary School in Cabinteely were treated to a different type of Garda checkpoint as members of the Traffic Corps assisted pupils to distribute ‘Homework for Drivers’ on roads near the school. Organised by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the Homework for Drivers initiative forms part of the ongoing Garda Winter Road Casualty Reduction Programme. Seamus Storan, Road Safety Engineer of Dún Laoghaire- Rathdown County Council said, “many schools where some parents, on the daily school run, will sometimes park illegally or unsafely in the rush to drop off or collect their child. We’re asking drivers not to park in a careless or selfish manner around schools or anywhere else on the roads.” Other campaign initiatives throughout Dún Laoghaire Rathdown include a Rock Road and N11 road safety campaign for vulnerable road users consisting of high-viz vest and other safety equipment giveaways.

Grange Road traffic disruption

Those living close to the junction of Grange Road and College Road in Ballinteer can expect some traffic disruption in the coming months as Dún Laoghaire – Rathdown County Council is currently preparing plans to re-design the junction at Grange and College Road. The intention of these works is to provide an improved layout, which will cater for current and projected traffic flows while adequately providing for all pedestrian and cycle movements. The plans also include the installation of a new pedestrian / cycle access point into Marlay Park.

with Graham Connors

Residents of DLR asked to ignore ‘we buy second-hand cars’ signs

Residents are becoming increasingly annoyed at the sight of ‘we buy second-hand cars’ posters and the campaign intensifies over bank holiday weekends. Cllr. Lettie McCarthy, (Lab) said she received six complaints from different areas over the October bank holiday weekend. "These posters are illegal and unsightly within estates and causes upset to residents. They are also placed along motorway off ramps which is very distracting and dangerous for drivers," she said. She advised that nobody would should this number or entertain this type of behaviour out of fairness to decent honest hard-working people who make their living by buying and selling second-hand cars. "Car dealers, who are paying rent and rates, employing staff and generally keeping their business going through difficult times do not need this added grief that these illegal traders are heaping on top of them. I sincerely hope people would pause for thought before they call this number and consider the people that they may be putting out of work," she concluded.

€19m sport capital fund good news for Samuel Beckett Civic Centre

This is welcome news for the Samuel Beckett Civic Centre as the green light can be given for phase 2 of the centre which includes a swimming pool. Phase two was approved subject to Sports Capital funding.

Balally Luas parking hike slammed

The decision by the RPA to increase parking charges at the Balally Luas park & ride by 25% has been criticised by local politicians. Local Cllr Neale Reichmond said, “Balally car park is at capacity and the facility is extremely popu-

lar for many residents of Ballinteer and Ticknock who live too far away to walk to the Luas but who still want to use public transport to commute. The notion that these people should now be forced to drive out to Carrickmines to avail of affordable parking is a daft one. “It is grossly unfair to punish the patrons of the facility in Balally for it being successful, my major concern is that people will vote with their feet and instead of parking in Ballaly or making a ludicrous commute back on themselves to Carrickmines, they will instead park in nearby housing estates.”

The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

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Rathfarnham Informer 15,000 copies delivered monthly

November/December 2013 • Unit 26, Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount, Dublin 12 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie

Rathfarnham • Nutgrove • Churchtown • Ballyboden • knocklyon • Edmonstown

Marathon Woman! Liz has relied on crutches since she was struck down by a neurological disorder

A 22-year-old Rathfarnham woman has become the first person in Ireland to complete a marathon on crutches. Liz O'Brien completed this year's Dublin Marathon in just under eight hours 30 minutes. Liz started training for the event By Anne Sharkey in June. "My hands and wrists were really, really sore afterwards but I was just so glad to finish it," says been a tremendously positive expeLiz. "I'm delighted to have achieved rience for me and there's no way I'd what I set out to do." have had the confidence to enter Absolutely adamant

the marathon if it wasn't for my Guiding experiences," she says. Liz is using her achievement to raise funds for Rathfarnham Rangers and Down Syndrome Ireland. To donate to Liz's My Charity account, log onto www. mycharity.ie/event/liz_obriens_ event

A former Loreto Beaufort pupil, Liz was accompanied throughout the circuit by her father, John O'Brien. "Around the third or fourth mile I wondered what I was doing but when I got to halfway I reckoned I was going to be ok," says Liz. "I became grouchy around the 20 mile mark but I was never tempted to give up. I was absolutely adamant I was going to finish it - no matter what." Liz has relied on crutches since she was struck down by a neurological disorder on 2nd January 2012. She attributes her unshakeable confidence and determination to her involvement in the Irish Girl Guides since the age of five. "It has

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The Informer

Rathfarnham In Brief... New exhibition at the Pearse Museum

The Pearse Museum are hosting the exhibition Patrick Pearse and 1913: The View From A Hermitage until January 2014. The exhibition features images and artefacts, which illustrate a collection of articles he originally published in the Irish Freedom newspaper. Pearse wrote about the public criticisms of Douglas Hyde’s leadership of the Gaelic League to the 1913 Lockout among other things. The articles reflect Pearse’s increasingly radical outlook and conclude with the foundation of the Irish Volunteers, an event that he celebrated as a sign that Ireland was reconnecting with its revolutionary past. Pearse also makes reference to a tragedy, which occurred on 2 September 1913 when two dilapidated tenement house on Church St. collapsed killing seven people. He wrote that “There are tenement rooms in Dublin in which over a dozen persons live, eat and sleep. The tenement houses of Dublin are so rotten that they periodically collapse upon their inhabitants.” The Dublin Housing Inquiry was then set up in November 1913 to investigate housing conditions in Dublin. The Pearse Museum, St. Enda’s Park, Grange Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm (4pm from November) and is open daily (closed Tuesdays). The exhibition runs until 31 January 2014 and admission is free. For more info visit www.heritageireland.ie.

Knocklyon ICA Guild

Knocklyon ICA Guild meet on the first and third Tuesdays of every month in the Knocklyon Community Centre at 8.30pm. Activities include

with Anne Sharkey crafts, interesting speakers, demonstrations, outings, lively chat and good company finished with a cuppa. This new and reformed ICA guild in Knocklyon welcomes new members and new ideas. Further information can be obtained from Mary Poole, P.R.O. on 087-2103474.

Marlay Park Market

The Marlay Park Co Co Market is located within the craft courtyard of the historic 18th Century Marlay house. The market takes places from 10am to 4pm Saturdays and 11am to 4pm Sundays. The grounds of the 247 acre park is home to a playground, a par-3 golf course, a model railway, running and walking trails and various sports facilities including tennis courts, football pitches and a cricket ground. For more information visit www.dlrevents.ie.

Dodder pollution investigation

An investigation into a toxic spill in the River Dodder in March of this year has revealed that a Galway construction company are responsible for the fish kill. Ward and Burke Construction Ltd. of Stradbally East, Kilcolgan, County Galway have been prosecuted by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) for the discharge of chlorinated water during commissioning of a new water supply pipeline in South County Dublin. Mr. Brian Beckett Fisheries Environmental Officer with IFI told Judge Hamill that following receipt of a fish kill report from South Dublin County Council on Friday 1st March 2013, Inland Fisheries Ireland carried out detailed investigations on the River Dodder over a number of days, and had established that in

Breakthrough

excess of 3000 fish including Brown Trout and Lamprey had been killed over a distance of 2.5 kilometres from below an outfall from Boherboy Water Supply Pipeline to a point upstream of Firhouse Weir. Representatives for Ward and Burke Construction Ltd. said that the discharge occurred as a result of human error and that they had taken steps to prevent any further discharge. It was also submitted that Ward and Burke Construction Ltd. had committed to provision of a sum of money to cover restocking or other appropriate costs to mitigate against damage caused as a result of the discharge. Judge Hamill convicted Ward and Burke Construction Ltd. and

imposed a fine of €2000 and awarded legal costs and expenses to Inland Fisheries Ireland. It has been estimated by members of the Dodder Anglers that recovery of the fish population in the River Dodder could take up to six years. “It will take five or six years for the fish stock to return to normal,” said Redmond O’Hanlon of the Dodder Anglers. “It is the nature of a river to clean itself with the flow of water. We will have to leave it up to nature to restock itself. There is a mile of river which was untouched from the Bohernabreena reservoirs to the point of the fish kill. The wild fish from this area were unaffected and will eventually drop down and populate.”

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The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry are to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Dublin. The Lord Mayor’s nomination of the two men was warmly welcomed by all Councillors and subsequently ratified by a Dublin City Council meeting. The award of Freedom of the City of Dublin acknowledges the contribution of recipients to the life of Ireland’s capital city. It also bestows honour on important visitors to Dublin. The Freedom of the City will be awarded to both men in early 2014. Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry will join an illustrious list of Freemen and Freewomen including former US presidents John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton, Nelson al costs and Mandela, Mother Teresa, U2, Kevin Heffernan and Aung San Suu Kyi. the Dodder Louis Le Broquy and Thomas Kinsella were the last people to be awarded the Freedom of ation in the the City of Dublin in 2007. “It will take turn to norInspirational citizens he Dodder Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn said “It is n itself with a great honour to be able to propose two of ve it up to Dublin’s most inspirational citizens for our river which highest award, the Honorary Freedom of the eservoirs to City of Dublin. Brian and Fr. Peter are from om this area different generations but they share much in p down and common. They are both inspirational leaders. They set a remarkable example to us all by the

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n Presenter Martin King and Gina Miltiadou pictured at the Easy Food Home-Cook Hero Awards 2013 at The Shelbourne Hotel. Photo: Robbie Reynolds.

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Tallaght Informer 25,000 copies delivered monthly

November/December 2013 • Unit 26, Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount, Dublin 12 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie

Kilnamanagh • TYMON • FIRHOUSE • OLDBAWN • JOBSTOWN • BELGARD

Public transport fare increases slammed

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"The increase in fares will inevitably lead to a drop off of fare-paying passengers"

Plans to increase travel fares have been described as counterproductive. The criticism came after the National Transport Authority (NTA) confirmed that the price of tickets on Irish Rail, Dublin Bus, Bus Eireann and Luas are set to increase. The hikes, which will be introBy Martin Flanagan duced between November and December, will also see price transport use. increases for Leap Cards and pre“This should be a time of opporpaid tickets. tunity for the National Transport Leap fares on Irish Rail and Authority to build public confidence Dublin Bus are expected to increase in our transport systems. While by 2.7 per cent in December, while commuter numbers are dropping, fares for the Dart will increase by 8 private transport is increasingly per cent. costly and an affordable accessible Bus Éireann cash fares will public transport is still attractive to increase between 4 per cent and 7 per cent, with monthly annual tick- many commuters. Unfortunately the government policy of forcible cuts ets set to increase by 6 per cent. Dublin Bus cash fares will rise encouraged and left no real alternafrom €1.65 to €1.80 for a journey tive to fare increases in Bus Éireann, of 1-3 stages, and from €2.15 to Dublin Bus and Irish Rail. This is increasingly making the public €2.35 for journeys of 4-7 stages. Fares for journeys of 7-13 stages transport option less attractive as it will rise from €2.40 to €2.60, while becomes less affordable for most journeys over 13 stages will rise commuters," Deputy Crowe said. He added: “These regular hikes, from €2.80 to €3.05. Criticising the fare hikes, local coupled with giving sweetheart TD Sean Crowe (SF) said he believes deals to private operators under sothe move will undermine public called public service obligation con-

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tracts, are literally undermining the public transport option and making it less accessible to more and more people. The proposed increase needs to be put on hold and other realistic alternatives to promote public use of transport options looked at in a more credible and realistic way. As sure as night follows day, the increase in fares will inevitably lead to a bigger drop off of fare paying passengers." Meanwhile, commenting on the move to increase fares, Minister for Public Transport Alan Kelly said public transport is the cheapest option for commuters. "A car user coming into Dublin or commuting into Dublin, I mean obviously you could be dealing with tolls, you certainly could be dealing with parking and you'll certainly be dealing with congestion and fuel use, so I still see that public transport is by far the cheaper way to go about your business," he said. Further information on price increases can be found at www. nationaltransport.ie.

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The Informer

Tallaght In Brief... Lucky locals win free college places

Two South Dublin locals were over the moon after winning free college places at IT Tallaght through a new innovative community outreach and education programme. Alison Gavin (43) from Firhouse, and Patrick Farrell (32), from Rathfarnham, were granted the places after they won a competition run by SDCC and IT Tallaght. The competition formed part of a new programme aiming to provide opportunities for people to go back to education by allowing community groups to sponsor locals. Tallaght Community Council were the first sponsors of the programme after it donated 2000 Educate Credits. The credits were earned after the Tallaght Community Council organised a summer event called Tallafest which took place in July. The event attracted over 5,000 people from the community who enjoyed different events such as exhibitions, local bands playing, a nature walk and lecture, a history lecture and a writers workshop. Over 100 volunteers gave freely of their time and earned over 2,000 Educate Credits. Those interested in winning the free places were then invited to write a 1,000 word piece on 'How going to college will change my life' .Both Alison's and Patrick's essays were the winning entries. Alison has started a degree in business, while Patrick will take up a degree in Energy and Environmental Engineering.

Marlay Park Market

The Marlay Park Co Co Market is located within the craft courtyard of the historic 18th Century Marlay house. The market takes places from 10am to 4pm Saturdays and 11am to 4pm Sundays.

with Martin Flanagan The grounds of the 247 acre park is home to a playground, a par-3 golf course, a model railway, running and walking trails and various sports facilities including tennis courts, football pitches and a cricket ground. For more information visit www.dlrevents.ie.

Ombudsman to investigate garda over Roma children removal

Children’s Ombudsman Emily Logan has been given special powers to investigate the garda following the removal of two Roma children from their families in Tallaght and Athlone. Ms Logan said she wants to examine "how the children and the families were treated and how the standards of public administration were carried out by the Garda and the HSE." Welcoming the independent review, a spokesperson for Pavee Point, a group which supports travellers and the Roma community, said: "Pavee Point welcome the Ombudsman for Children’s statement that she will conduct a full inquiry into recent events in which children from Roma families were taken into State Care. We welcome this complete and independent inquiry, which is to include a review of both HSE and Garda procedures. Pavee Point have consistently maintained that a fully independent inquiry is needed to investigate these matters." The Health Service Executive and the gardaí will also submit separate reports on the cases. The reports will be sent to Justice Minister Alan Shatter and Children's Minister Frances Fitzgerald. Ms Fitzgerald said there is a need to understand the full details surrounding both incidents, but she said it is hugely important that concerns surrounding child protection issues do not go unreported.

Gay Kelly

Let’s Stay Fit! Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014

those who may not have done any 5k races before to take up the challenge. You can walk, jog or run and watch your fitness levels improve through the races.” All members of the Lord Mayor’s team will receive a high quality dry fit t-shirt prior to commencement of the first race and a medallion and invitation to a reception in the Mansion House on completion of all five races. To register for the 2104 Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014 log onto www.dublinsport.ie/5alive/. Registration is open from 30th October, 2013.

Dear Neighbour, I believe in local people managing their communities, that local people are best placed to respond to the needs of their neighbours, of their community. As a resident of Tallaght for over 30 years I face many of the issues you face, I share many of your concerns. I am seeking your support to be your voice, the voice of our community on South Dublin County Council. To work on your behalf to ensure that: UÊ ÛiÀÞÊÀiÃ `i ÌÊ vÊ- ÕÌ Ê ÕL ÊÀiVi ÛiÃÊÌ iÊ } iÃÌÊ« ÃÃ L iÊ iÛi Ê vÊÃiÀÛ ViÊ from their council UÊ/ iÊV Õ V ÊÜ À ÃÊ Ê}i Õ iÊ«>ÀÌ iÀÃ «ÊÜ Ì Ê V> ÊV Õ Ì iÃ UÊ/ iÊV Õ V ÊÜ À ÃÊ> }ÊÜ Ì Ê Ì iÀÊ>««À «À >ÌiÊÃÌ>ÌiÊ>}i V iÃÊÌ Ê>ÃÃ ÃÌÊ communities that are suffering from the terror of anti-social behaviour UÊ"Ü iÀÃÊ vÊÀi Ìi`Ê ÕÃiÃÊ>ÀiÊV «i i`ÊLÞÊ-

ÊÌ Ê > Ì> ÊÌ iÊ«À «iÀÌÞÊ and gardens. UÊ/ iÊ« > }Ê ÃÌ> iÃÊ vÊÌ iÊ«>ÃÌÊ>ÀiÊ ÌÊÀi«i>Ìi` UÊ/ iÊV Õ V Ê ÃÊLÕÃ iÃÃÊ> `Ê LÊVÀi>Ì ÊvÀ i ` Þ UÊ/ iÊV Õ V Ê«À ÌiÊ/> >} ÌÊ>ÃÊ>Ê} `Ê« >ViÊÌ Ê ÛiÊ> `Ê>Ê} `Ê« >ViÊÌ Ê do business

Gay Kelly If you feel I can be of assistance to you please contact me at i Þ}«£ÓÎJ} > °V ÊÊUÊÊänÇÊ Î£Ênn Î

The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry are to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Dublin. The Lord Mayor’s nomination of the two men was warmly welcomed by all Councillors and subsequently ratified by a Dublin City Council meeting. The award of Freedom of the City of Dublin acknowledges the contribution of recipients to the life of Ireland’s capital city. It also bestows honour on important visitors to Dublin. The Freedom of the City will be awarded to both men in early 2014. Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry will join an illustrious list of Freemen and Freewomen including former US presidents John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, U2, Kevin Heffernan and Aung San Suu Kyi. Louis Le Broquy and Thomas Kinsella were es before to the last people to be awarded the Freedom of or run and the City of Dublin in 2007. hrough the Inspirational citizens team will Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn said “It is or to com- a great honour to be able to propose two of dallion and Dublin’s most inspirational citizens for our n House on highest award, the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin. Brian and Fr. Peter are from r’s 5 Alive different generations but they share much in rt.ie/5alive/. common. They are both inspirational leaders. 2013. They set a remarkable example to us all by the

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Sandyford Informer 20,000 copies delivered monthly

November/December 2013 • Unit 26, Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount, Dublin 12 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie

Sandyford • Leopardstown • Stillorgan • Stepaside • Foxrock

Calls to get Blackglen project prioritised

The major delays and congestion around Lambs Cross and at the Enniskerry Road Aikens Village junction, especially at morning peak time could be eradicated if the upgrade work was carried out at Lambs Cross and Blackglen Road, it has been claimed. Cllr Lettie McCarthy said, “It is By Rachel Murray wrong to put this very busy road on the long finger and not give it priorisition and other costs as well as conty. This very narrow road is littered with walkers and cyclists who are struction costs. Principal of St Mary’s Fergus putting themselves at risk every day. It is the only link for Ticknock resi- Lyons said, "With the population dents to their nearest school, St. increasing in the Sandyford area, St. Mary’s National School and they Mary's has had an unprecedented have no footpath which would allow surge in demand for places, the vast majority for Junior Infants. them to walk in safety. "Many of these applications come Bus stop is a ditch cutting from the estates which open out onto "The bus stops are literally created Blackglen Road. The lack of a footby cutting away a piece of the ditch path on Blackglen Road means that and this is not acceptable. I can these children may never be able to accept that the money is not there to experience the pleasure of walking to embark on the full scheme that was and from school. They will have to approved but I am insisting that work be driven by their parents, which is a will be carried out from Lambs Cross shame as part of growing up is develto meet the footpath in Ticknock as oping independence." we simply cannot ignore the dangers Taking their life in their hands any longer”. The Blackglen Road Improvement Mr Lyon's said that Blackglen Scheme is estimated to cost between Road is an extremely busy road, par€8-10 million to include land acqui- ticularly in the mornings so any child

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walking on the road would be taking their life in their hands. "The council's failure to take action to upgrade the road flies in the face of its own initiative to encourage schools to get pupils to walk or cycle to school - no parent is prepared to have their child seriously injured or killed when no safe walking/cycling route to school is available," he said.

Not in the current programme

Sandyford Informer contacted DLR to confirm whether or not funding has been secured to allow the approved Blackglen Upgrade Scheme to progress from Lambs Cross as far as the footpath leading into Ticknock. A spokesperson for the Council has stated that the Blackglen Road improvement scheme is noted as a six year road objective in the Council's current Development Plan. The route is currently not contained in the Council's Capital Works' Programme but it is under consideration for inclusion into the Capital Programme which will be reviewed in early 2014.

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The Informer

Sandyford In Brief... Residents of DLR asked to ignore ‘we buy second-hand cars’ signs

Let’s Stay Fit! Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014

with Rachel Murray challenge of taking part in five of Dublin’s best road races early next year. I am particularly encouraging those who may not have done any 5k races before to take up the challenge. You can walk, jog or run and watch your fitness levels improve through the races.” All members of the Lord Mayor’s team will receive a high quality dry fit t-shirt prior to commencement of the first race and a medallion and invitation to a reception in the Mansion House on completion of all five races. To register for the 2104 Lord Mayor’s 5 Alive Challenge 2014 log onto www.dublinsport.ie/5alive/. Registration is open from 1pm on 30th October, 2013.

€19m sport capital fund good news for Samuel Beckett Civic Centre

Funding for sport has risen by €19 million in Budget 2014 including a new round of Sports Capital Programme funding. Sport funding comprises four components the Irish Sports Council, Sports Capital Programme, National Sports Campus and Local Authority Swimming Pools Programme. This is welcome news for the Samuel Beckett Civic Centre as the green light can be given for phase 2 of the centre which includes a swimming pool. Phase two was approved subject to Sports Capital funding.

Baby Bodyfit for mums & mums-to-be

Baby Body Fit at Sandyford Community Centre is a pre and post natal exercise class for pregnant women and new mothers.

Stage 1: Prepare your body while pregnant through yoga and Pilates exercises light cardio work. Your body will truly benefit from this class, making it easier to lose any unwanted weight afterwards. Stage 2: Regain your body after giving birth. A fitness and weight loss program designed specifically for women who want to get back into those prepregnancy jeans and feel good again! All levels are catered for.

Stage 3: Maintain your body after that initial new baby phase. Stage three is a slightly more intense workout for those who want to keep up their fitness regime after returning to a normal pace of life. Contact Stephaine @ 087 9254378 Classes: Tuesday 10.30-11.300am Friday: 10.30-11.30am Email:info@babybodyfit.ie Web:www.babybodyfit.ie

The Informer

Brian O’Driscoll and Fr. Peter McVerry to be awarded Freedom of the City

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