PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON DRAFT WICKLOW BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2025–2030

Wednesday 16th July 2025, 14:03 pm

Members of the Public Invited to Help Shape Wicklow’s Biodiversity Future

Wicklow County Council is pleased to announce the launch of a public consultation on the draft County Wicklow Biodiversity Action Plan 2025–2030. This consultation will run from 14^thJuly to 11^thAugust 2024. The draft plan outlines a shared vision for protecting and restoring biodiversity across the county, with practical, locally informed actions proposed for the next five years.

Wicklow was the first local authority in Ireland to declare a biodiversity and climate emergency and this plan builds on that leadership. It aligns with the national priorities outlined in Ireland's 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan, focusing on halting species loss, restoring ecosystems, building climate resilience and supporting community-based conservation initiatives.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, stated: “Wicklow’s natural landscapes, from its mountains and rivers to its hedgerows and coastline, are what make our county special. This plan is about safeguarding that richness and working together for the future. I encourage everyone to take a moment to read the plan and share their thoughts.”

Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, added: “The development of this plan has been informed by local knowledge, scientific evidence, and active community involvement. We want to ensure that it reflects the priorities and needs of Wicklow's residents while providing a clear and ambitious path for biodiversity protection.”

The draft plan and supporting documents are available for review online at:https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Online-Consultation-Hub/Wicklow-County-Council-Biodiversity-Action-Plan-2025-2030

Hard copies can also be accessed at the following locations:

·Arklow Library

·Blessington Municipal District Office

·Bray Library

·Greystones Library

·County Buildings, Wicklow Town

You can make a written submission electronically through the Council’s Public Consultation Portal athttps://www.wicklow.ie/Living/ConsultationHub

Alternatively, you may email your submission to the Senior Executive Officer at climatepolicy@wicklowcoco.ie or send it by post to the Senior Executive Officer at Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Station Road, Wicklow Town, A67 FW96.

The closing date for submissions or observations is 4pm on Monday, 14^thAugust 2025.

Please ensure that your submission includes your name and address, and, if applicable, the details of any organization, community group, or company you represent.

Education Is a Right, Not a Privilege: Corr Urges Government to Scrap College Fee Hike

Thursday 3rd June 2025, 08:16 am

Kells Community Rep, Cormac Corr PC has called on the Government to take immediate action to prevent a planned increase in third-level college fees, warning that the move would roll back progress on educational access and place additional pressure on struggling students and families.

“Education is not a luxury. It is a fundamental right and the clearest pathway we have to a fairer, more prosperous Ireland,” Corr said, in response to reports that Budget 2026 will see the return of the €3,000 annual college fee, following the expiration of a €1,000 cost-of-living reduction introduced during the past two years.

The cost-of-living measure, which helped ease financial pressure on students during a time of rising rents, food prices, and transport costs, is now set to be removed. Corr described this reversal as not only short-sighted but actively counter-productive.

“I only recently finished my own time in college,” Corr said, speaking from his hometown of Kells. “I know exactly how expensive it is to pursue a degree in this country. Every student I met was constantly counting coins, juggling jobs and sacrificing essentials just to stay afloat. Adding a thousand euro to that burden will push many over the edge.”

Corr warned that the proposed increase is more than a technical change in policy. He said it would disproportionately impact working-class students, rural students, mature students, and others who already face structural barriers to accessing higher education. He also pointed to the so-called “squeezed middle” families who earn too much to qualify for SUSI support but not enough to absorb further increases in fees, as being especially vulnerable.

“The Government has a choice to make,” Corr said. “It can choose to protect access to education, or it can choose to balance the books on the backs of students. But it cannot pretend to do both.”

While Government leaders have cited ongoing economic pressures and broader uncertainty in public finances, Corr argued that this is exactly the moment to strengthen investment in education. He said cutting support now risks deepening inequality and undermining future economic growth.

“Education lifts people up. It transforms lives and strengthens communities. If we let fees rise now, we are sending a message that opportunity is reserved for those who can afford it,” he said.

Corr is urging both the Minister for Education and the Minister for Public Expenditure to intervene before Budget 2026 is finalised. He is calling for the €1,000 increase to be scrapped, for SUSI thresholds to be raised to reflect the realities of inflation and income pressure, and for a long-term public funding model that ensures no student is locked out of higher education due to cost.

“This is about building a country where education is a right, not a privilege,” he said.

Corr stressed that the return to €3,000 fees is not inevitable, but a political decision, and one that can still be changed. He called on the Government to show that it values students, supports families, and believes in an Ireland where everyone has a fair shot.

LAUNCH OF NEW CAMPAIGN FOR URGENT REFORM OF HIQA

Tuesday 1st July 2025, 08:27 am

‘Older and disabled people must no longer be commodified by profit driven care models. They are NOT for sale’

SPOKESPERSON DR.MARGARET KENNEDY

“All of us feel great fear. We have totally lost confidence in HIGA and the HSE to safeguard elderly people and those with disabilities, be they in the community or in nursing homes”.

A new campaign to driveimmediate reform of HIQA will be launch this morning ( 1^stJuly)

‘Equality Not Cruelty’, is the latest campaign by a grassroots lobby group, ‘Equality Not Care’,initially founded to campaign against the care referendum, and is led by several people with disabilities, older people, family members and advocates.

It is focussing its new campaign on ensuring that ill treatment and violations of dignity, respect and care in residential nursing homes never happen again.

Spokesperson for the campaign, Dr. Margaret Kennedysays they have come together with renewed focus in the wake of the recent ‘RTE investigates’ nursing home scandal.

Dr Kennedy says “All of us feel great fear. We have totally lost confidence in HIGA and the HSE to safeguard elderly people and those with disabilities, be they in the community or in nursing homes”.

She says

“What we witnessed in the RTE programme was horrifying but not unexpected. Many of us have feared or experienced cruelty, disrespect and abandonment within residential settings. This broadcast only served to confirm our long-held concerns.

It also marked a crucial turning point;we will no longer tolerate inane lame explanations, excuses or silence. The time for change is now.

The whole country voiced its utter horror, disgust and dismay at what RTE highlighted.

The spectre of vulnerable people, who did all they could in their lives to work and build up this state being treated in such a cruel, uncaring and undignified manner was truly shocking and people were rightly outraged.

However, this has to be harnessed into real action for real change, real accountability and real care, otherwise gross abuses of vulnerable people will happen again and that would be an additional shame and stain on our country”.

Dr. Kennedy continues

“We were dismayed that the CEO of HIQA, who appeared before the Oireachtas Committee recently broadly apologised, but really it fell short.

This is astounding and we believe it is deeply telling. It reflects a broader lack of accountability that must be addressed without any further and undue delay.

We will not rest until HIQA openly addresses our most pressing concerns. It has an inalienable duty of care to the people in its charge, and anything less is a gross dereliction of duty.

There are still more questions than answers and we are demanding full disclosure from HIQA.

We have several pressing concerns – For instance- What immediate steps is HIQA taking to ensure that residents are protected from all forms of abuse in services under its remit

What was thenature of the 198 abuse reports at Beneavin Manor and the 40 at The Residence in Portlaoise. Were families informed in each case”.

“We find itincrediblethat services can be classified as ‘compliant’ while facing such high volumes of allegations of abuse. It leads us to strongly question what compliant means in practice. We also want to know if a memorandum of understanding with the Gardai has now been finalised.

The trauma for the residents of these homes, and by extension for their families is immense and we still don’t know if the residents have been offered counselling and if they are now provided with clear accessible information about how to report abuse or concerns? This is an absolute minimum”.

We are asking the Board of HIQA to respond fully to our concerns and to do so in writing.

The public trust in HIQA’s role in this country has been profoundly shaken.

Restoring it will require transparency, reform and accountability” .

Back Row:

L-R Andrew Murray, NRG Solutions,
Colin Kennedy, Derry and Strabane County Council
Cormac Downey, Tree Council of Ireland
Nial O’Connor – Monaghan County Council
Robert Burns, Monaghan County Council
Patricia Monahan, Monaghan County Council
Jeremy Turkington, Hometree.ie
Paul Armstrong, Woodlands Trust UK

Front Row: L-R

Utchang Kang, UNCCD

Cllr. PJ O'Hanlon, Cathaoirleach, Monaghan County Council
Rev. David Latimer, People's Peace Forest

Don Mullan, UNCCD Consultant

People’s Peace Forest Organisation Established as Ireland’s Response to United Nations Peace Forest Initiative

Friday 27th June 2025, 08:12 am

A new organisation—The People’s Peace Forest—has been formally established to serve as Ireland’s response to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Peace Forest Initiative, following an exploratory meeting held on Wednesday 25th June at the Monaghan Peace Campus, an appropriate setting as it is an institution that promotes peace, reconciliation, and community engagement.

The gathering was attended by Mr. Utchang Kang, lead for the Peace Forest Initiative at the headquarters of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Bonn, Germany.  The attendees were formally welcomed to Co. Monaghan by Cathaoirleach Cllr. P.J. O’Hanlon.

The initiative was brought to Ireland by Rev. David Latimer, who helped secure Derry-Londonderry’s designation as an International City of Peace on 21 September 2023 (UN International Day of Peace), and Irish author and campaigner Don Mullan, who has long worked at the intersection of reconciliation, peacebuilding, and environmental advocacy.

Inspired by the UNCCD’s Peace Forest Initiative, the People’s Peace Forest aims to promote peace and ecological restoration across the island of Ireland, with an initial focus on urban forestry, youth engagement, and cross-community, cross-border collaboration in Ulster.

The meeting brought together representatives from the UNCCD, Monaghan County Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council, The Woodland Trust (UK), The Tree Council of Ireland, and Hometree.ie.

“The Peace Forest Initiative is about more than planting trees—it is about planting hope, healing, and solidarity in places where they are most needed,” said Mr. Utchang Kang. “Ireland’s vision for the People’s Peace Forest stands as a powerful example of how environmental restoration can also be a pathway to peace.”

Ongoing meetings are planned over the coming months to further explore Ireland’s all-island contribution to this global initiative, spearheaded by the UNCCD. A formal launch of the People's Peace Forest is being considered for October 2025, with events proposed for Derry and Monaghan.

CONCERNS MOUNT FOR MANY RENTERS IN MEATH AS TENANT IN SITU SCHEME IS AXED BY THE GOVERNMENT - Emer Tóibín

Monday 7th April 2025, 10: 25 am

Many renters in Co. Meath and across the country are “reeling from the recent government decision to axe the Tenant in Situ scheme”.

The scheme allowed local authorities purchase homes where tenants were at risk of eviction, providing security for individuals and families who would otherwise face homelessness.

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín says

“I have received countless calls from desperately worried renters who are living in state of uncertainty and fear, now that they have received notice to quit from their landlords.

“Pulling this scheme has truly pulled the rug from under already vulnerable people. These are working families, pensioners, those on lower incomes who simply cannot find affordable alternatives in the private rental market. The suspension of this scheme is yet another example of a government that talks about tackling homelessness but then pulls this vital safety net away from so many

Insecure tenancy casts a dark cloud over many renters and can leave them at their wits end and living in dread of being evicted.

I have been contacted by tenants in Meath who are now left in limbo having received the dreaded notice to quit. They have no idea what faces them over the weeks and months ahead. It is a horrible situation for them and the government could reverse this terrible decision to suspend the scheme if they had any real sense of leadership, decency or indeed any economic sense.

As well as putting ordinary people through hell, the Government will now have to shell out for expensive emergency accommodation for them. It doesn’t make senseon any level.

As a result of the Government’s ineptitude and inertia, more people will be forced into emergency accommodation—at an enormous cost to the state and devastating personal consequences for those affected by this desperately retrograde step.

The government knew that new funding targets needed to be agreed upon before the election was called, yet they failed to act, leaving local authorities powerless to protect tenants. Can you believe what you are reading? The outgoing government did not agree on new funding targets in time. So that was the end of the tenant in situ scheme and a secure roof over peoples' heads. This is a damning inditement of the last government and really not much has changed with the current incumbents.

I am calling on the government to immediately reinstate funding for the Tenant in Situ scheme and to provide clarity to those who have been left waiting in fear of eviction. Every delay worsens the crisis, and Meath tenants deserve certainty, security, and action - not utterly shallow, cold and meaningless excuses”.

Meath County Council and Meta Announce New Funding Partnership to Deliver STEAM Skills for Primary School Students and Families

Thursday 3rd April 2025, 14:37 pm

Meath County Council has announced it will develop a model for STEAM Teams, which will be rolled out in 20 Co. Meath National Schools by the end of 2026, thanks to a donation of €299,000 from Meta.

This pilot aims to bring together the whole school community of management, staff, parents, and children to work collaboratively to co-create a future model for fun and sustainable engagement with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths). This work builds on the model for parental involvement in STEAM developed by OurKidsCode, a research project based in Trinity College Dublin.

This donation from Meta, who have been part of the community in Meath since breaking ground on their Clonee Data Centre in 2016, enables Meath County Council to build on work already being delivered to support coding and other STEAM programmes in the county.

The Council has been working with OurKidsCode to successfully develop Family Coding Clubs across Broadband Connection Points in Co. Meath Over the last two years. In collaboration with the Department of Rural and Community Development, they have successfully created family led clubs aimed at increasing the digital skills of children and parents alike.

The OurKidsCode programme builds confidence in parents to support their child’s development of creative technology skills. By inviting parents and children to work together in a fun and safe way, families are supported to develop projects that build coding, crafting and collaboration skills.

Funding of this scale enables Meath County Council and OurKidsCode to work with local schools to build a truly sustainable and scalable model that will have a long term and wide-reaching positive impact.

Commenting on the launch of the programme,Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Sharon Tolansaid:"This excellent initiative partners perfectly with the other previous STEAM and coding programmes in Meath, and I am very pleased in particular to see such a focus on family involvement. Fostering such a collaborative spirit while increasing important digital skills will undoubtedly yield fantastic benefits for the children, parents, and schools involved."

Dara McGowan, Director of Services and Deputy Chief Executive of Meath County Councilsaid:“Meath County Council understands the demand to improve digital skills across the county. From supporting children and families to understand coding and digital technologies to supporting our older residents to stay connected, engaged and safe, we hope that this will be the start of a new model of support through the county’s schools.”

Aoife Flynn, Head of Community Development at Meta Clonee Data Centersaid: “Meta is committed to playing a positive role and investing in the long-term vitality of Meath, and we are proud to partner with Meath County Council and Our Kids Code to support a new STEAM Team pilot that will help bridge the digital divide for families. This community-based model of connecting families, children and schools as one ‘STEAM Team’ creates a space for people to learn together, and to support one another as they learn. It has the potential to create lasting local impact, and we are excited to see where it leads.”

Éadaoin McGovern, Director of Navan Education Centresaid:“I am really excited by this new programme and the opportunities to help its delivery in County Meath’s national schools. The role of the parental involvement in education, supporting children in their learning is an important step forward to bring in new ways of teaching with more playful, sensory and creative approaches. The programme will help parents to learn about their child’s learning experience creating a much more collaborative environment in our schools.”

PUBLIC NOT SLEEPWALKING RODERIC, THEY’RE WIDE AWAKE TO THE MASSIVE DAMAGE YOU AND THE GREENS HAVE CAUSED

Thursday 28th November 2024, 08:48 am

Aontú Leader Deputy Peadar Tóibín has issued a stinging rebuke following Green Leader Roderic O’Gorman’s’ call on the electorate not to ‘sleepwalk’ into voting for so called populist parties ,saying that the public is wide awake to the colossal damage the Greens have caused while in Government .

Deputy Tóibín says

“It appears that Roderic O’ Gorman is completely oblivious to his and his parties terrible record”

“There is a reason why the Greens were out of office for so long before they were ‘forgiven’ by the public, however given the damage they caused in this incarnation, I doubt we’ll be seeing them in power again any time soon”.

“Let’s remind people of both Roderic O Gorman’s record in office and that of his party”.

“They have absolutely decimated rural communities right across our country. They have been scathing about farmers and high handed and arrogant towards them”.

“Their public transport plan is a shambles; people have missed hospital appointments, missed flights, job interviews and work because of the many ‘ghost’ buses that simply don’t turn up”.

“The Greens have insisted on jacking up fuel prices through punitive Carbon taxes and tolls have increased right around the country. These are stealth charges and are really hurting people”.

“They are not incentivising people to use public transport; if it was available and fit for purpose people would use it, but the Greens shambolic handling of public transport is sadly preventing people from getting on board with public transport and forcing them to stay in their cars”.

“They have created absolute chaos around immigration. They have affected compassion, but instead have given human beings tents to sleep on the cold, wet ground. They placed people in isolated areas with absolutely no services. That is not compassion. They have destroyed trust with both genuine people seeking refuge and local communities, and have done a terrible injustice to both”

“They have enriched private accommodation providers, raiding the public purse and have had the cheek to try and ostracise communities who just wanted answers to reasonable questions. They did that in a cynical bid to divert from their own from their own gross ineptitude”.

“Poor and vulnerable little children have died ,been placed in unregulated care centres or gone missing while in state care under Roderick O’Gorman’s tenure. These unfortunate children were not kept safe, and this is a damming indictment”.

So, it is a bit rich of Roderic O’ Gorman to come out and try and tell voters what to do.

“I know he would wish they were asleep but instead they’re wide awake to his shameful record”

“If he is suggesting people are voting against the Greens for any other reason than their calamitous record in government, you are dead wrong. We have the plan, the team and the support to address the genuine concerns of voters, and we are confident they will make the right choice on Friday”.

“The only person asleep to his failings is Roderick O Gorman himself “

Mid-East 44% Increase in Referrals for Men to change Violent Behavior in Interpersonal Relationships

Tuesday 26th November 2024, 14:48 pm

Mid-East Region

• Louth had a 190% increase in 2023 (10 in 2022 we had only taken over the service half way through the year, to 29 in 2023)
• Meath had a -16% decrease in 2023 ( 25 in 2022 to 21 in 2023)
• Athlone 22.46% increase in referrals (15 in 2022, 22 in 2023)Mid east Region

• This region had a 44% increase in referrals

The Mid-East Region, which covers Louth and Meath as well as Westmeath had a 44% increase in referrals to MOVE Ireland (Men Overcoming Violent Emotion), a nationwide organisation aimed at rehabilitating or supporting men who choose to be violent in their intimate or interpersonal relationships.

MOVE runs nationwide programmes for men encouraging them to take responsibility for their behaviour and actions.

MEATH HAD A SMALL DECREASE IN REFERRALS BUT VITAL TO STRESS THAT MOVE IRELAND HELPS MEN TO CHANGE THEIR BEHAVIOUR

Dr.Michelle Walsh, CEO of MOVE Ireland says

“Calls are rising year on year, 2024 to date has seen a national rise of 400% of calls to our service. Domestic violence does not discriminate based on age, gender, socio-economic background, race, or religion. Perpetrators come from all walks of life, and the reasons behind their abusive behaviour can be complex, involving a combination of personal history, psychological issues, and learned behaviour. Men are looking for change. Our referral rate increased by 34% in 2023 and to date in 2024 we have seena 27% rise, 46 % of referrals being self-referrals. It’s incredibly encouraging to see that more people are seeking help to change abusive behaviours.Menswillingness to seek support reflects a growing awareness and a positive shift in addressing the roots of domestic violence. When individuals come forward, it not only opens the door for personal growth and accountability but also fosters healthier relationships and communities.

“The Choices Programme focuses on behavioural change, taking accountability and understanding how abusive behaviour can impact others. The choices programme is aimed at rebuilding individuals’ understanding of healthy relationships, which is key to helping breaking cycles of abuse. Domestic violence from a perpetrator perspective, is probably one of the last taboos, shrouded in secrecy and shame for both the abuser and the abused but the more people hear about it, talk aboutitand face it the more chance we have of changing this damaging behaviour”.

Shesays

“Domestic Violence encompasses awide rangeof abusive behaviours that goes beyond physical harm, it involves various forms of manipulation, control and intimidation, including sexual abuse and coercive control, we work with all if it. We also work with the partners and ex partners of the men on the programme. In one instance we supporteda number ofcurrent partners of one of the group participants as he continued to replicate his behaviour from partner to partner”.

“It can be hugely inter-generational. Wehave workedwith three generations of women who have been abused and sadly some abusers are mirroring the abuse they saw in childhood. It’s a cycle that we are working to break”.

"The programme provides participants with the tools to change their destructive behaviours and rebuild their relationships. We see the transformative impact of this programme on couples and families every day, domestic abuse effects the entire family and conversely recovery effects them also. They are safe, free from fear and anxiety and can happily go about their lives as they should. Together with our community partners, we are determined to create a safer environment for everyone. UK research into perpetrator programmes tells us thatFar fewer women report being physically abused (61% before, compared to 2% after), they report that forced sexual abuse is reduced (from 30% to zero), with similar reductions for using a weapon’. Significant outcomes for children’s quality of lifeincluded,reductions in worrying about their mothers’ safety and being frightened of the perpetrator.”"

“We are currently running 12 group programmes nationwide, 4 of which are online. The Choices programme isa 23-week rolling programme. The programme runsfor 2-hours once a week. Men can self-refer via our online form on our websiteor stateservices like Tusla or probation may do so”.

One man who has gone through the MOVE programme is 54-year-old Derek.

He comes from a background where alcoholism and violence formed the backdrop to his childhood and though he says this certainly shaped him emotionally, he takes full responsibilities for his own behaviour. He credits the MOVE programme with “entirely changing my life for the better”.

He says “I come from a family of 6. I saw so much alcoholism and violence growing up and this had a terrible effect on me. I swore I would never have that in my marriage”.

“For years I kept to that promise, I never so much as raised my voice to my ex but one day I slapped my wife and the minute I did it I felt sick”.

“I was arrested and charged, and my probation officer told me about MOVE. I was asked if I would go on the programme, and I agreed immediately”.

“I hated MOVE for the first 6 weeks or so, I was full of pride and ego. But then something happened, I started to listen. I surrendered and I heard my ‘own story’ from the mouths of the other men on the programme, it was like they held up a mirror to me”

“It was only when I cameinto MOVE that I realised I have lived in shame all my life, I lived my life in the shadows”.

“I have learned so much about emotions, I never spoke about emotions before. I suppose I was afraid. I lived in fear all my life”.

“MOVE has made me listen and acknowledge and accept my character defectsbut crucially it has made me want to change them”.

Show Real Compassion to Family Carers; Get Rid of Means Test and Give  Them More Respite- Tóibín

Tuesday 26th November 2024, 08:49 am

Given that family carers save the state some €20 Billion a year, Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín, a candidate in Meath East for this Friday’s General Election, says that her party is advocating for more regulated and public home care hours to be provided by the State.

Cllr Tóibín says

“Aontú has brought two motions to the Dail in the past year alone seeking the abolition of the means test for the carers allowance”.

“We were the only party in the Dáil to advocate for a No vote in the recent Care Referendum in which the government and main opposition parties sought to eviscerate carers rights by reducing their constitutional grounds for seeking economic support from the State”.

“Over half a million people in Ireland provide unpaid care for family members or loved ones”. “Those who provide care within the home are truly unsung champions who should be paid for the work they do and should not be penalised based on their spouse’s income”.

“Aontú is fighting for better access for respite services and increased weeks of respite for those in receipt of round the clock care ,to help alleviate the pressures on family carers”.

“The outgoing Government gave a lot of lip service to ‘equality’ and compassion, but it is neither equal nor compassion to deny family carers their absolute rights when it comes to pay, nor to try and cynically strip them of the rights they do have”.

“However, in the light of Simon’s Harris appalling disrespectful treatment and dismissal of the lady who tried to bring his attention to the plight of carers we should not be surprised”.

Scurlogstown Olympiad’s Trim Haymaking Festival Appreciation Night, a Huge Success, €10,500 Donated to Local Charities and Local Community Organisations

Wednesday 20th November 2024, 14:11 pm

Our Appreciation Night, held on Saturday the 16th of November, in the Castle Arch Hotel

was a resounding success, bringing together community groups, local businesses, and

residents to celebrate and give back to those in need. Thanks to the overwhelming support

throughout the year, a total of €10,500, which was donated to various local charities and

community organizations on the night.

The Appreciation Night, organised by Scurlogstown Olympiad, aimed to recognise the hard

work and dedication of those who contribute to the growth and well-being of the community.

Attendees were treated to an evening filled with entertainment, heartfelt speeches, and the joy

of making a tangible difference.

"We are thrilled by the turnout and support from all" said Michael O’Brien Chairman of

Scurlogstown Olympiad. "This night was about more than just celebrating; it was about

coming together to support the organisations that make a real difference in the lives of those

who need it most."

The funds donated will benefit a range of charities and community organisations. The

following charities were supported on the night: Meals on Wheels Trim, Trim Tidy Town,

Men’s Shed, Women’s Shed, St Vincent de Paul Trim, MS Therapy Centre, Kiltale Active

Retirement Group, Trim Active Retirement, Kildalkey Young at Heart, Trim Network

Special Olympics Club, Meath Hospice Homecare Movement, Meath Community Drug &

Alcohol Response, Clady Vintage Group, Prosper Meath, Comhaltas, Trim Youth Club, Dr

Brody’s, Homelife and finally Rehab Care. Each of the organisations is dedicated to creating

positive changes and supporting the needs within the local community.

The event was to bring all together to thank them for giving up their time for our various

events throughout the year, to our volunteers, sponsors, traders and demonstrators - this is our

way of saying a massive thank you and end the year on a high note. To everyone who came

along on Saturday Night, we thank you for making it a memorable and successful one.

"We are so proud to be part of a community that values kindness and generosity," said PRO

Siobhan. "The success of this event speaks volumes about the spirit of our locality, and it's

heartwarming to see everyone coming together and celebrating the positive impact our events

have for the community."

As the Scurlogstown Olympiad continues to grow stronger, the commitment to giving back

remains at the heart of everything we do.

For more information about the Appreciation Night or if you wish to get involved please

reach out to us our Facebook page Trim Haymaking Festival or email

trimhaymakingfestival@outlook.com

Balfe Says Childcare Should Cost Less but not be ‘Done On the Cheap’

Tuesday 19th November 2024, 15:57 pm

‘In a recent TikTok post, Minister Simon Harris promised that the government is ‘going to make childcare costs much cheaper,’ sounding more like a Ryanair ad than someone committed to a comprehensive solution to Ireland’s childcare crisis’, said Eilish Balfe, Labour Party Candidate for Meath East.

Eilish Balfe contested the local elections for the first time in 2024 and missed election by a narrow 15 votes. Undeterred, she has thrown her hat in the ring again, this time for the General Election.

‘While affordability is a key concern for families, the Labour Party emphasises that the issues in the childcare sector extend far beyond cost, impacting the quality of early education, the working conditions of educators, and long-term child development.’

‘Ireland’s childcare fees remain among the highest in Europe, but the challenges of the sector run deeper. Many early childhood educators, who provide invaluable educational and developmental support to our youngest citizens, will soon find themselves back on near minimum wages due to inadequate state investment. These educators are doing vital work—not just caring for children, but fostering their early development. This sector requires a systemic rethinking to better serve families, children, and the workforce that supports them.

‘The Labour Party is calling for a complete reimagining of Ireland’s Childcare sector, proposing a move towards a fully public system of Early Education and School Age Childcare, with the following key commitments:

·A Guaranteed Quality Place for Every Child:

·Ensuring every child who needs a place in childcare has access to one, without waiting lists or shortages

·Nationalised Wages for Educators:

·Setting a standardised, fair wage structure for early childhood educators, recognising their essential contributions to society and ensuring the sustainability of the workforce.

·No Financial Cliff Edge for Providers:

·Supporting providers through a smooth transition as the sector moves toward a public model, without sudden financial or operational burdens.

·Capped Fees at €200 per Month for Parents: Implementing a fair fee cap to make childcare affordable for families across Ireland.

She said that ‘For me, this is about more than an election promise—it’s about delivering a brighter future for children and families. Childcare and early education aren’t just services; they are foundational for children’s lifelong learning and growth. When we invest in early education, we’re investing in a stronger, more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren.

Labour believes that addressing Ireland’s childcare crisis requires vision and dedication, not just campaign promises. It’s time to treat childcare as the essential public service that it is and build a system that works for everyone involved.

For more information, contact: Eilish Balfe at 087 9018822 and eilishbalfe@gmail.com

HOUSING FOR OLDER SINGLE PEOPLE IN MEATH A TICKING TIMEBOMB

Tuesday 19th November 2024, 10:38 am

The highest demand for housing in Meath County Council is for one bed units and throws the spotlight on the issue of accommodation for older single people.

That’s according toAontú’sCllr Emer Tóibín, a candidate for Meath East in the upcoming General Election, who says that between 1,600 to 1,800 people are waiting for an average of seven years for a single unit accommodation and says the issue of accommodation for single people is a ticking timebomb that is not being addressed or spoken about.

“This is going to cause huge problems down the line. Not everyone fits into the ‘traditional ‘family unit and they don’t need or want two- or three-bedroom properties. They can’t afford them for one thing, they are too big for them, and these are some of the people that are at constant risk of homelessness”.

“Housing for single older people is a massive issue . These people may have separated, they may have remained single, they may be on low incomes, they may not have a strong familial or social network, they are getting older, and they simply don’t have suitable housing for their needs. We have a severe shortage of one-bedroom units, and this is going to come back to haunt us if we don’t grab the issue now andtake action”.

“Private developers are trying to play catch up too and this is adding to the competition for one bed units”.

“We are an increasingly aging society. It is estimated that by 2051 one in four people will be over the age of 65. The current life expectancy is around 84 years. We don’t have a good record of planning for these eventualities and now is the time to change that. It is imperative that our older people who have worked to build up this country deserve nothing less”.

“We need to fast track single bed units as matter or urgency. In itssubmission to the JointOireachtasCommittee on Housing,ALONE, the organisation thatsupports older people to age at home,called for targetedhousing delivery for older people to help increase housing supplyand highlighted the escalating crisis of homelessness among older people in Ireland.”

“ALONE stated that they have provided 535 interventions to support older people who were homeless or at risk of homelessness in 2023”.

“Older single people haveparticular needs, and they are desperately worried as to how and where they will find suitable secure and lifelong accommodation as they age. So many are now in private accommodation paying hugerents, in fact latest figures from Threshold show that 1 in 5 people live in rented accommodation, andthey haven’t a hope of maintaining those payments on a pension. This issue needs to be grappled with now or it’s going to create huge hardship for people down the line”.

Workers deserve a government that respects them - Cllr Joanna Byrne

Monday 18th November 2024, 10:48 am

Sinn Féin General Election candidate Cllr Joanna Byrne is calling on workers to use their vote on 29 November to elect a Government that respects them , protects their rights and makes their lives easier .

Cllr Byrne stated ;

" For far too long workers in the private and public sector Louth and East Meath have been let down by sucesive governments that simply dont care .We see this on the picket lines outside our Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitals, at B.D and in the wage packets of working families each week .Workers deserve a Government that respects them , that works to protect their rights and that makes their lives easier."

" Louth and in particular Drogheda has a long and proud tradition of workers standing together in solidarity,however local Government TD's have failed to deliver for them in any real or meaningful way .Sinn Féin are serious about doing just that .This means that we will tackle the high cost of living for workers, we will deliver affordable childcare , and we will take all workers earning €45,000 out of the USC net.

" The right to secure and affordable accomodation is a basic entitlement for workers .My party leader Mary Lou Mc Donald alongside our Spokesperson for Workers Rights Louise O Reilly, our Spokesperson for Housing Eoin O Broin, our Spokesperson for Finance Pearse Doherty, and our Spokesperson for Children Claire Kerrane have set out a range of priories that Sinn Féin want to deliver in Government which include ; Delivering the legal right to collective bargaining; Delivering the right to organise; Abolishing mandatory retirement ;Ensuring that workers can retire on their state pension at the age of 65; Supporting people with disabilities back into work or into increased working hours; and the right to disconnect."

" Workers in Louth and East Meath cant afford to wait another five years for support from their Government, and they cant depend on the same political parties who have left them and their families behind . This is why Sinn Féin wants to lead the next Government and show up for ordinary workers and families.I want to be part of this new Government and deliver for working families in Louth and beyond and I am asking people to use their vote on 29 November to change the Government and vote to elect me and my colleagues in Louth to the next Dáil ."

17,000 PEOPLE HAVE NO FULL TIME GARDA STATION

Thursday 14th November 2024, 09:50 am

The reality of a population of over 17,000 people not having a full time garda station in one of the fastest growing counties in the country is yet one more damming example of the complete decline in Garda numbers over the term of the government.

Aontú General election candidate in Meath East, Cllr EmerTóibínand Louth candidate Michael O’Dowd, have made a joint statement calling for immediate action to establish a full-time Garda station inLaytown.

Cllr Tóibín says

“CurrentlyLaytownis a part time station reporting into Ashbourne, which is an incredible 33 KM away. The low Garda numbers have left the communities in the wider coastal area vulnerable, undermining public safety and confidence”

“We currently have no full time garda station to serve theLaytown,Bettystown, Mornington,StamullenandGormanstownarea, which is a vast area”.

“Recent incidents of vandalism including the burning of a picnic area onBettystownbeach and anti-social behaviour around the area have exposed the urgent need for enhanced local policing resources.”.

For his part, Michael O' Dowd said that the burning of the picnic area was the last straw for a lot of people .

“ I have strong family ties toBettystownand the safety and security of people and property in the area demands a full time Garda Station”.

“Laytown,Bettystownand Mornington is a growing area, and residents deserve to feel safe and protected in their own community”.

Cllr Tóibín continued

“The government has stated that discussions are ongoing for the provision of a full time Garda station, this delay is unacceptable. Aontú started a petition way back in 2021 calling for a full time Garda stationand here we are four years later, still waiting ”.

“This is almost unbelievable, but the facts are stark. Meath, home to the Minister for Justice has to beg for more Gardai as it has one of the lowest number of Gardai in the country”.

Gardaí appeal to the public for assistance in locating missing 15-year-old from Navan Co. Meath who was last seen in Ashbourne

Tuesday 12th November 2024, 08:45 am

By Darren Donoghue

Gardaí are appealing to the public for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 15-year-old Chloe McDonagh who is missing from Navan, Co. Meath and was last seen in Ashbourne Town centre on the afternoon of Thursday 7th November, 2024 at approximately 2pm.

Chloe is described as being approximately 5 feet 5 inches in height, with a slim build. She has long blond hair and blue eyes.

It is unknown what Chloe was wearing when she went missing. It is understood that Chloe has travelled to Cork.

Gardaí are concerned for her welfare.

Anyone with any information on Chloe's whereabouts is asked to contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01 801 0601, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

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A vote for Dempsey is a vote for progress, not protest

Monday 11th November 2024, 08:55 am

Meath West needs a voice at the Government table to move forward

Meath West General Election Candidate Councillor Aisling Dempsey has said that communities across the constituency, such as inNavan, have made enormous progress in recent years, but need a strong voice at the Government table to protect this progress and build on it into the future.

She said: "Our communities have made significant progress over the past decade.

"I want to protect this progress and build on it into the future. From talking to people in Navan and across the constituency it is obvious that more infrastructure and amenities are required to do this.

"Fianna Fáil in Government has invested in really important initiatives such as Navan Rail, which is progressing, thousands of new homes, the development of Blackwater, Spicers, St Finians, Flowerhill and Abbeylands; and increasing bus services.

"Navan is competing with other large towns nationwide for investment for projects like these and others in the future.

"The town needs a TD representing it at the Government table to fight its corner and argue the strong case that is there for investment, not simply a TD that protests from the sidelines. "

Ashbourne Gardaí appeal for witnesses to incident in Ashbourne on Halloween night

Thursday 7th November 2024, 12:45 pm

Ashbourne Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to a serious incident which occurred on Frederick Street, Ashbourne on Halloween night, Thursday October 31st.

At approximately 9.30pm, a male was walking home when he was approached by 5 or 6 males who threatened him and proceeded to take his phone.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses or anyone who may have been travelling on Frederick Street between 9.10pm and 9.40pm on this date and has Dashcam footage, to please contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01-8010600 or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.

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O’Reilly: More funding as well as reform needed for disability services, child and adolescent mental health services

Wenesday 6th November 2024, 11:59 am

Cllr. Caroline O’Reilly, Fianna Fáil general election candidate for Meath East, has again said that increased funding and more reform is needed in the areas of disability services as well as child and adolescent mental health services in the south Meath area.

Cllr. O’Reilly is a qualified and accredited addiction counsellor and psychotherapist, with over 20 years’ experience in mental health and addiction services. Speaking on the canvass, she said that while there has been progress made since Fianna Fail entered government in 2020, there is yet more that must be done.

“If I’m elected to the Dáil, an absolute top priority for me is securing increased funding and further reform for both disability services and child and adolescent mental health services. I’m looking to get to the Dáil to build on the work my party has done.

“For example, this year in Budget 2025, Minister Mary Butler secured a rise in spending on Mental Health to €1.5 billion, marking the fifth consecutive year that an increase in funding has been provided to develop and support mental health services - an increase of 43.7% over the time Fianna Fáil has been in government, clearly demonstrating the focus the party in government has placed on ensuring that our mental health services are safe, accessible, modern, and person-centred.

“This is good progress but we need to push forward. In my work in psychotherapy and on Meath County Council, I understand the need to develop both disability and mental health services in our country. It’s one of the reasons I want to be a TD. I know there’s been record investment, but there’s more to do. TDs need to know what they’re talking about, have experience and be able to hit the ground running. If I’m elected, I want to push the issues of addiction and mental health services to the fore in a Fianna Fáil government."

Cllr. O’Reilly also highlighted that she has been engaging with constituents on disability services and there is also a need for further funding and reform.

She said:“In this year’s Budget Minister Anne Rabbitte secured an additional €335.8 million for disability services, with the Disability budget surpassing €3 billion for the first time, amounting to an 11.6% increase in funding on last year and representing an overall increase of €1.2 billion since Fianna Fail entered government in 2020.

“This level of funding is significant, yet I will push for more, to help the sector cope with the increased cost of service provision, pay cost pressures and service provider sustainability. I am calling for further expansion, particularly relation to Children’s Services, Day Services, Residential Services, and Personal Assistance Hours.

“We simply need more and better services to be delivered in areas of mental health, older people and for those dealing with addiction as well as in addressing inequalities for all in special education, mental health and child welfare and I would make these my absolute priority in Dáil Éireann.

“This government has established the first ever National Youth Mental Health Office in the HSE to improve leadership, operational oversight, and management of all service delivery and improvements related to youth mental health, yet from my experience in the sector I know more must be done and I am committed to helping to find solutions.

“I believe in prioritising the wellbeing and prosperity of our children and young people, ensuring that they are supported through all areas of their lives and of the need to work hard to reshape the early learning and childcare sector, changing the current relationship between the State and the provider to one of a partnership working together to deliver this public good.”

Highlighting the Dunboyne A Team Arch Club, a group set up by parents of children with autism, Cllr O’Reilly pointed out the great work that can be done by the community if support was forthcoming. The Arch Club was set up in response to the complete lack of a social outlet for children with autism. Cllr O’Reilly said:“I’ve worked with this group first hand and I know how fantastic they are. Their funds are limited and they’ve had to fundraise to support their existing services and the huge waiting list. If elected, this is the type of social infrastructure I want to work to secure funds and support for.”

Coláiste De Lacy Ashbourne wins Meath Libraries European Debate challenge

Monday 4th November 2024, 15:31 pm

Congratulations to Coláiste De Lacy students for winning this year's EU Debate Competition organised by Meath County Council Library Service. Coláiste De Lacy students delivered a remarkable performance opposing the motion that ‘The EU has brought peace and prosperity to Europe’, overcoming challenges from Eureka Secondary School in a fiercely contested final.

This year’s debate series was supported by the Communicating Europe Initiative and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Each finalist took home €50 book vouchers, while the champions celebrated with the prestigious EU Debate Challenge Cup and a €1,000 school prize. Congratulations to the runners-up from Eureka Secondary School who received book vouchers and a €200 cash prize for their school.

Executive Librarian Mary Murphy expertly chaired the event at the European Food and Veterinary Centre in Grange on October 25th. The judging panel included Cllr Aisling Dempsey, Ms. Pilar Aguar, the director of the EU centre at Grange, and Shauna Henry, Senior Executive Librarian from Meath County Council.

Pictured is the winning team from Coláiste De Lacy College, with County Librarian Maedhbh Rogan-McGann, Executive Librarian Mary Murphy, EU Commission Director Pilar Aguar, Teacher David Hopkins, Cllr Aisling Dempsey and Senior Executive Librarian Shauna Henry.

Dempsey: Púca festival puts Trim and Athboy on the global map

4th November 2024, 13:25 pm

The Púca festival held in Trim and Athboy at the weekend was an enormous success and shows that the Boyne valley has limitless potential for tourism, according to Councillor Aisling Dempsey.

She said that the festival, which attracts thousands of visitors to both Trim and Athboy, shows a real example of how Boyne Valley can rival the wild Atlantic way in attracting tourists coming to Ireland.

Dempsey said:"What a great privilege it is, as well as great fun, to be part of the Puca Festival every year as Chair of Boyne Valley Tourism and as a Púca Steering Committee Member.

"The festival, thanks to the hard work of so many people locally, particularly hundreds of dedicated volunteers and dozens of community groups, brings over 35,000 people to Trim and Athboy at what is normally a quiet time of year, and seeing so many local businesses get involved is especially welcome.

"I want to congratulate and thank everybody involved for their hard work.

"It is so important to our local economy, our local businesses but also to the Boyne Valley region and Ireland. The festival really shows the potential of this region and works to put us on the map on a global scale, we must continue to grow our reputation as the Birthplace of Halloween and I am delighted to be a champion of everything our region has to offer."

Dempsey: "Uisce Éireann's credibility has drained away in South Meath"

4th November 2024, 11:20 am

Millions spent on rebranding would have been better spent on delivering promises to fix water in South Meath

Persistent delays in the delivery of essential works to fix Ballivor's ongoing water issue has drainedUisceÉireann's credibility with the people of Meath West, according to Councillor Aisling Dempsey.

She said that during her engagements with residents of Ballivor and Trim, these residents have been expressing their frustration with the consistent lack of reliable water in their areas.

Dempsey said:"It is my honour as a Councillor to represent people in South Meath and engage with them to help tackle the issues affecting their lives.

"Nearly two years ago, I got a commitment from UisceÉireannto build a reservoir in Ballivor to resolve its water issues. They promised that construction wouldbegin on the Ballivor project after the Longwood reservoirwas completed.

"Thankfully, the Longwood reservoir was completed recently, howeverUisceÉireannhave since then stalled the start of construction of this essential piece of water infrastructure at Ballivor.

"At my recent meeting withUisceÉireann, I secured anothercommitment that they would begin construction at Ballivor next year. They will be hearing from me and Ballivor residents on New Year's Day 2025; as the entire community of South Meath has been left without reliable water supply for too long.

"I met withUisceÉireannin mid October to outline the ongoing water issues in Ballivor. They have made and broken many promises to resolve water issues in Ballivor and Trim. Some of these promises date back to well before Irish Water spent millions on rebranding iself toUisceÉireann. I made the point that these millions would have generated better 'branding' if they had spent it on delivering on their promises to fix water in South Meath."

Councillor Dempsey also highlighted that it's not just Ballivor residents who have been left in the lurch byUisceÉireann's failure to deliver, but also, Trim residents.

She said:"UisceÉireannhas let the people of Trim down with their poor service and outages over the past several years. I secured a commitment fromUisceÉireannfor a long-term upgrade to Trim's water infrastructure to resolve this. Knowing the timelines involved, I also secured a committment from them that they put in place an interim solution in the meantime whilst investment for a permanent plant came online.

"This interim solution was approved in April but as yet has not been commissioned. It beggars belief that the even short-term interim solutions thatUisceÉireannpropose are delayed. After repeated efforts,UisceEireannwill be providing a timeline for the deliver of both the interim solution and the large plant in the coming days. I will keep the pressure on in the coming weeks.

"Finally, I took the opportunity to ask UisceÉireannt o consider providing local graveyards with water connections free of charge. Most graveyards in the county are maintained brilliantly by voluntary groups. However, a number of graveyards are without water connections making life for volunteers who maintain graveyards year round very difficult. These gesture would be greatly appreciated by those groups and of course, the communities, where these graveyards are located and would generate some good will for UisceÉireann.

"I cannot overstate the importance of these water projects for the South Meath community."

Give Meath housebuyers a break; Pay grants in two  stages - Tóibín

4th November 2024, 11:10 am

The vacant and derelict housing grants should be paid out in two stages if many people in Meath East are to have any hope of buying a home.

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín, a candidate in Meath East for the upcoming General Election who says

“The grants are a huge incentive to get these once loved properties back into use again. However, people who want to turn these vacant and derelict properties into homes find themselves caught as they have to pay out for the work first and then apply for the money back. This is out of the reach of so many people as they used up all the money they have actually buying the house in the first place. It’s really ridiculous that schemes that are so good in principle are a nightmare in practise.”

“We have 100,000 private vacant properties nationally and 4,000 council properties, with a significant share across Meath."

“I want some common sense around this issue; pay the grants to house buyers in two stages and give them a real chance to put a roof over their heads. Also I believe the current time scale of 13 months that is given to people doing these properties is not enough. We have a severe shortage of tradespeople; it should be 18 months in order for it to work to its full potential”.

“We need to have imagination around these grants; they are an excellent and truly sustainable way for people to buy a home, they have the potential to greatly revitalise rural communities across Meath but in order for them to work they have to be accessible and currently, they’re simply not”.

“In the midst of the worst housing crisis this country has ever seen it is incumbent on the Government to make these grants easier to draw down”.

Knifepoint robbery in Ashbourne Co. Meath on Halloween night

1at November 2024, 17:56 pm

By Darren Donoghue

It's been reported that an individual was held at knifepoint and robbed in Ashbourne on Halloween night between.

In an post on social media, the family have appealed for witnesses to come forward with information.

A family member took to social media to make the appeal. They said the following:

"Hi All, a family member was robbed at knife point last night approx 9.10-9.30 pm. Outside Dunnes stores on the supervalue side".

"The robbery was stopped by a passer by in a car that brought the victim to the Garda station and we would like to speak to them to say thank you".

"We are also appealing for any witnesses that seen anything to contact Ashbourne Gardai. We would also ask any businesses from the Credit Union down towards the Garda station if they would be so good to check thier cctv".

"Any body driving through Ashbourne village from 9 pm to 10 pm if you could also check your dash cams and provide any footage to the Gardai".

"The perpetrators are described as Black males, wearing black clothing and ski masks, approx 15-18 years of age in a group between 4 and 6".

"A phone was taken and last pinged from the playground around 9.40 pm. Thank You. If you are the person that stopped this please DM me we would like to thank you personally"

Boyne News has contacted An Garda Síochána and they said the following:

"Gardaí are investigating a robbery that took place in Ashbourne, County Meath on Thursday evening, 31st October 2024 at approximately 9.30pm. Investigations are ongoing".

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Government failings push Ireland’s electricity prices to the highest in the EU – Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 30th October 2024, 12:30 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Climate Action and the Environment, Darren O’Rourke TD, has slammed the government for failing to tackle Ireland’s exorbitantly high energy prices, which remain the highest in the EU.

Commenting on the latest figures released from Eurostat, the Meath East TD said:

“Eurostat’s latest figures confirmed yet again that Irish households are confronted with the highest energy prices in the EU, with the average bill typically €500 higher than the EU average.

“The cost of domestic electricity alone is €350 more per annum. Gas prices here also soar above EU levels, with households paying €183 more on average.

“It therefore costs ordinary workers and families here one third more to heat and power their homes. In other words, we are being ripped off.

“Unsurprisingly, half a million energy customers are now in debt. This is the highest number ever recorded.

“Three years into this crisis, the latest figures on energy debt reveal the deep flaws in our energy system. Government policy is failing miserably. Instead of working for ordinary people and prioritising energy affordability, Ireland’s energy system favours the corporate balance sheet.

“In Sinn Féin, we recognise that Ireland’s energy system is plagued by deep-rooted structural flaws; flaws which have been allowed to fester by successive Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael led governments leading to the complete dysfunction we see today.

“Workers and families need a break. The government’s solution is ‘once-off’ electricity credits.

“First, €250 is nowhere near the amount needed to address the scale of the problem. After all, annual costs remain €1000 more than they were four years ago. Combined with the recently announced increase in network charges and the PSO levy, Irish households will barely feel the effect of these meagre payments.

“Second, temporary electricity credits do not address the root causes of Ireland’s broken energy system.

“Like the housing crisis, this government is behaving as though widespread energy poverty is a normal feature of the energy system, when it is not. This is a political choice.

“Sinn Féin is committed to wholesale market reform of our energy system. As long as energy is treated as a commodity for private gain rather than as a basic necessity and public good, the price will remain unreasonably high here.

"Sinn Féin will deliver the wholesale change necessary to make energy affordable in a system that prioritises fairness over the corporate balance sheet. Our plan includes measures to reform the various market defects that drive up the cost of energy here; from the regressive way taxes and levies are currently distributed to the excessive commercialisation of energy.

“Sinn Féin will transform Ireland’s energy system towards fairness, transparency, and affordability, ensuring energy companies are held to account and that ordinary workers and families feel the benefit of the renewables transition in their pockets. At the upcoming election, voters will face a clear choice. A choice between more of the same from this out of touch government, or change through a Sinn Féin government determined to ensure ordinary workers and families get a break from high costs."

Foster Parents Being Failed By The State - Tóibín

Wednesday 30th October 2024, 11:03 am 

Foster parents across Co. Meath who are doing their utmost to care for vulnerable children are being failed by the state and not getting the supports they need.

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín, a candidate for Meath East in the upcoming General Election who says, “The lack of supports is putting huge pressure on foster parents who have opened their hearts and homes to these children but are being taken completely for granted by our state”.

Cllr Tóibín says “It is heartbreaking listening to foster parents who are struggling under the demands of caring for children who don’t even have a social worker assigned to them. There is a lack of Social Workers, and this is completely unacceptable in a country that is economically buoyant but increasingly a cold place for people who are vulnerable in any way”.

“Foster parents are providing a safe, warm and loving environment for children who badly need it” “They are certainly not doing it for the money, they are doing it because they genuinely care which is patently obvious as the financial help they get is paltry and does not reflect the needs of the children in their care at all.Foster parents were not even considered for an increase in their allowance in the recent budget and they do not get any pension contributions, despite the fact that so many of them have to give up work”.

” This is an absolute injustice and just one of many”

“The children they care for are not even eligible for a back-to-school allowance which is grossly unfair”.

“I firmly believe that there should be an adequateonce off payment to foster parents at the start of each placement to allow them to buy the necessary equipment and toys for each child”.

“There seems to be no will whatsoever on the part of the Department of Children to address the glaring gaps around social care workers. I believe they should look at conversion’ courses whereby people with a degree in childcare for example could do an in-depth and intensive course to qualify as Social Workers”.

“It is stating the obvious to say that the State's record of looking after children in its care has not been near the desired standard in recent years and good, responsible and reliable foster parents are needed now more than ever.”
“Where the government is failing badly, societal intervention is necessary and provide vulnerable children with a safe and nurturing home environment “.

“The Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman has shown himself to be hopelessly out of his depth on the issue of children protection”.“He can’t even state how many children go missing from state care every year”.

“We have seen how children were placed in the care of unvetted people, this is absolutely appalling”.

“The spectre of 227 poor, unfortunate children dying in state care in the past decade is proof enough that a gross injustice is being done to vulnerable, voiceless children “.

“It is an utter disgrace how these children are being failed”.

Sinn Féin LaunchLandmark Plan to Transform Healthcare in Meath

Tuesday 29th October 2024, 14:45pm

Sinn Féin TD for Meath West Johnny Guirke and Meath East TD Darren O’Rourke has said that Sinn Féin’s landmark plan to deliver healthcare reform will transform healthcare in Meath.

The party’s spokesperson on Health David Cullinane TD today launchedPrescription for Change: Sinn Féin’s Plan to deliver healthcare when you need it.

Launching the plan, TeachtaCullinane said that this is the most extensive and comprehensive health plan ever produced by a political party. He added that the plan would transform healthcare and set Ireland on course for full universal healthcare by 2035.

The plan includes more than 350 policy commitments across more than 60 policy areas spanning the broad range of health issues. It includes 25 key priorities across 10 sections, 5 First 100 Days commitments, and means that Sinn Féin is ready to go from Day 1 to deliver healthcare reform.

Deputy Guirke said:

“Sinn Féin’s Plan to deliver healthcare when you need itisthe most significant and comprehensive plan to transform healthcare in Ireland that has ever been put together by any political party.It would be transformative for healthcare in [area] and make a real difference for patients here.

“There will be an election shortly and voters will face a stark choice. This is a choice between the same failures on health that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have overseen. Or a vote to transform the healthcare system by voting for Sinn Féin.

“Sinn Féin have the determination and the detailed policies to deliver change in healthcare. Government have thrown in the towel on health, but we would refuse to accept the status quo and instead deliver the change that is needed.

“Our 120-page plan sets out in detail how Sinn Féin in Government will transform the Irish healthcare system so that everyone will have access to the best quality healthcare when they need it.

“Our plan sets out how we would deliver a public GP contract, a revolution in child and youth mental health, and an extensive health bed plan to deal with scandalous overcrowding and disgraceful waiting lists.

Deputy O’Rourke said:

“Our plan will ensure that people can access a GP or a dentist when they need one; end the crisis in our emergency departments; cut waiting lists; deliver the biggest investment in the history of the state in mental health; bring Irish nurses anddoctorshome; and end wasteful spending.

“Sinn Féin is committed to affordable healthcare. That is why in just 5 years, we would deliver free prescription medicines for all households, and medical cards for those up to the median income. We would set this in law in our first 100 days.

“Sinn Féin is committed to accessible healthcare. That is why we have a plan for 7,400 health beds, bolstering local GP, dental, and health services, expanding home care, and reforming waiting lists.

“You can read the full document on our website athealth.sinnfein.ieand I would encourage everyone to look at our plan and consider it.

“Sinn Féin has the ambition, the determination and the plan to transform the healthcare system, so that you and your loved ones can get high quality healthcare, when you need it.”

Guirke Calls for Increased Funding for Schools in Meath

Wenesday 23rd October 2024, 14:45 pm

Johnny Guirke TD has received numerous concerns from schools across Meath West, including Kilmessan Mixed NS! As both a parent and TD for Meath West, I share the worries expressed by parents and school staff regarding the urgent need for increased education funding!

The recent Budget 2025 has highlighted significant shortcomings in primary education funding that cannot be ignored.

Deputy Guirke Stated "A mere 12% increase in core funding, alongside a reduction in cost-of-living support, falls far short of the necessary 20% increase that had been campaigned for! This insufficient funding hampers a number of schools ability to maintain essential services without relying on fundraising.

"Although 1,000 new leadership posts were announced, Schools have yet to restore positions to pre-2010 levels! Schools continue to operate with diminished leadership capacity, contributing to the ongoing retention crisis for both principals and teachers!

"Despite a significant funding surplus, schools are struggling to reduce class sizes for the second consecutive year! Currently, Ireland has the largest class sizes in the EU, adversely affecting the learning experiences of every child!

"Furthermore, I believe the €9 million allocated for phone pouches would be better spent on adequately funding our schools! Children deserve an education that meets their needs and prepares them for the future.

Deputy Guirke concluded "I have written to the Minister of Education sharing the concerns of parents and school staff who have contacted me across Meath. Education must be a cornerstone issue in this upcoming election and I’m calling on all candidates to share their plans for addressing these challenges and ensuring that schools receive the vital support they require!

This government is not serious about public transport as it is not making it either functional or attractive to encourage people out of their cars and onto buses - Emer Tóibín

Wenesday 23rd October 2024, 09:58 am

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín who says she is dismayed by the response of the NTA (National Transport Authority) to her consistent representations seeking bus shelters for certain stops throughout Navan.

Cllr Tóibín says

“Earlier this month, I requested that the bus stops at the Ardboyne Hotel get a shelter as so many people wait for buses at these two stops - they came back to say they are initiating a “ Bus Stop Enhancement Programme” across all local authorities, with an allocation of €500,000 to each local authority as part of the 2024 NTA allocations. They say the objective of this programme is to facilitate the enhancement / upgrade of existing bus stops across the county, including the provision of poles and hard-standing areas where none exist, the provision of seating (where space exists) and the installation of bus shelters in ‘appropriate’ locations. The NTA says it intends to repeat this as an annual funding stream for a number of years, to enable and facilitate the necessary uplift and enhancements to bus stop locations across the Co. Meath”

“I forwarded this response to Meath County Council to see what list it is currently putting together to prioritise some bus stops in Navan for a shelter” .

“I raised this at the most recent town council meeting and I was told that the council is currently engaged in drawing up a priority listing .It couldn’t tell me how many bus stops or shelters this small allocation would cover”.

“It won’t be many however as € 500,000 is a paltry sum for a for a county the size of Meath. It’s very dispiriting as everyone wants to do his or her bit for ‘active travel’ but their attempts are being stymied by a government that is simply not up to speed on the issue of public transport”.

‘FORGOTTEN JOHNSTOWN’ MAY STILL HAVE TO WAIT FOR LONG PROMISED COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE - Emer Tóibín

Tuesday 21st October 2024, 11:08 am

Decades on from the construction of the first house in Johnstown, Navan, the 12,000-strong community of Johnstown continues to be completely overlooked by Meath County Council, and one elected Public Representative fears that any delivery of much needed infrastructure and community amenities is still years away.

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín says

“Johnstown is an area of 12,000 people, 1km outside the town of Navan with NO community amenities. It’s a town in its own right. Meath county Council doesn’t seem to think that it has any duty whatsoever to the population who live there; it approved permission for thousands of much needed houses to be built there but has delivered zero community infrastructure”.

“We have seen several false dawns over the last number of years, but I am desperately concerned now that even more delays may be in the offing, with unprecedented delays regarding the transfer of land from the developer to Meath County Council.”

“The council says this transfer is imminent, but it has said this on numerous times before over the last 3 years, so I won’t hold my breath”.

“Separately, a planning application for a housing development in Farganstown was submitted in June of this year. This application includes, as part of the proposed development, the provision of a creche, community centre and sports hall sports hall, ancillary changing rooms, community rooms and ancillary administration/office space rooms.Further information has been requested of the applicant by the Council so now that decision date will be pushed out into the future by some months.”

“The Council is now considering what to do at both the four-acre site at Dunville and the one at Farganstown site in terms of community amenities for both areas”?

“This raises many questions for me. Will it be a joint project? Will this add further delay to rollout of community amenities in Johnstown? The Council is also considering the longer-term operating model for facilities at both locations in terms of their management, the anticipated operating, maintenance, and insurance costs”.

“However, we're at a standstill until the two matters of the transfer of land and planning at Farganstown are resolved. The development of facilities at Dunville has yet to undergo detailed design and secure approval from the Council under the Part VIII planning process”.

“I welcome all this development and the construction of new homes; however, I have to seriously question the logic of linking plans for the provision of amenities in Johnstown with a very large-scale project which is only at planning application stage. Would there not be a more timely delivery to Johnstown if Johnstown was considered as a standalone project?”

“Johnstown is still growing; development is still happening and there are still no basic facilities and services in the community. To say that’s not good enough is an understatement”.

Aisling Dempsey: "Trim Primary Schoolchildren can't lose their teacher midway through the year"

Monday 21st October 2024, 14:30 pm

A teacher is set to lose their job midway through the school year leading to significant disruption to schoolchildren attending Trim Educate Together School. The 5th class teacher will lose their role because the school is 14 pupils below a threshold established by the Department of Education.

Cllr Aisling Dempsey, FiannaFáilGeneral Election Candidate for Meath West, has said the removal of this teacher will see 3rd, 4th and 5th classes having to merge midway through the school year disrupting teachers, children and parents with all classes then seeing an increase in pupil:teacher ratios.

She said:"I have highlighted this issue with Minister Foley as I believe it's essential that this teacher is left in situ with the 30 pupils they currently teach. Regardless of the existing thresholds it's common sense that the school year would not be disrupted like this. The reality is that Trim is a growing town and that there is ample population growth for the Trim Educate Together school to retain this role. In fact, in the next year or so, this role would have to be reinstated for school so there's no sense in disrupting all these classes for the sake of a couple of months to satisfy a bureaucratic guideline. I hope that the Department will see the sense in this.

“I recognise that, since entering government, the minister has reduced the primary public teacher ratio in successive budgets, bringing it to a historic low of 23 pupils per teacher. However, I stressed to the Minister the absolute necessity of taking the overall context of this school's situation into account.

"This school will hit the required number of students to retain the 203, next year, so it will need the post again."

Cllr Dempsey, in addition to meeting with the Minister on the issue, said she would do all in her power as a Councillor to help the school retain the post.

She said: "Retaining the post for this year is hugely important, and that is why I have also been raising this at the Trim Municipal District level as a Councillor for the area.

"I have called for us, as a council, to write together to the Department of Education on the situation, highlighting the context with the school that it has outgrown its current temporary location and a solution can be found by all stakeholders working together.

"I will continue to engage with the Minister's office and the Department, while doing all I can as a Councillor, to find a solution."

"8,761 Patients Leave Navan Hospital Emergency Department without being seen in Past Decade" - Tóibín.

Monday 21st October 2024, 11:50 am

According to data released following a Parliamentary Question from the Chair of the Save Navan Hospital Campaign Peadar Tóibín TD, some 8,761 patients have left the emergency department at Our Lady's Hospital Navan without being seen, over the past decade.

Speaking today Deputy Tóibín said: "As chair of the Save Navan Hospital Campaign I find these figures very concerning. With the exception of the Covid years, the number of patients leaving the ED in Navan without receivingtreatment is rising each year. I can well imagine that the reason many are leaving is because they get fed up withthe wait times, they simply can't stick it, and feel they would be safer if they went home".

Deputy Tóibín continued: "Between the 2016 and 2022 census the population of Meath increased by 13%. However, services, GP provision, staffing levels and hospital capacity has not increased at the same rate. In actual fact the government and HSE have spent those years actively trying to close our A&E department. It makes no sense. The recruitment freeze imposed on our health service for the past number of months is unforgivable. It has effectively locked out nurses from working in our hospital".

"Ireland's health service is competingfor staff on an international stage. Nurses and doctors are voting with their feet and emigrating en masse to Australia and Canada. The HSE needs to realise that they're competinginternationally and provide properpay and conditions to our nurses which would make it more attractive to stay in Ireland. There is a disaster happening before our eyes in the health service, and we must speak up for nurses and patients at this crucial time", concluded Tóibín.

Number of patients who left the ED in Navan without being seen, in each year:

2014 - zero

2015 - zero

2016 - 353

2017 - 493

2018 - 1,018

2019 - 1,225

2020 - 673

2021 - 971

2022 - 1,230

2023 - 1,530

2024 (so far) 1,268

Gardaí appeal for Information in regards to a murder investigation of Kyran Durnin (8 years) Missing From Drogheda Co. Louth

Wenesday 16th October 2024, 09:50 am

A murder investigation has been launched for 8-year-old Kyran Durnin, who had missing from Drogheda Co. Louth.

An Garda Síochána released the following statement this morning :

"Gardaí in Louth investigating the disappearance of Kyran Durnin (8 years) are appealing to the public for information".

"Kyran was reported missing from his home in Drogheda, Co. Louth, to An Garda Síochána on the 30th August 2024.

Despite extensive enquiries carried out by Gardaí to date, An Garda Síochána have been unable to either locate Kyran, identify any information on his current whereabouts or any evidence that he is currently alive".

"Following enquiries to date, investigating Gardaí now believe that Kyran is missing presumed dead".

"A murder investigation has been commenced".

"The investigation is being led by a Senior Investigation Officer (SIO) based out of an incident room established at Drogheda Garda Station".

"Gardaí are appealing to anyone who has any information in connection withthe disappearance of Kyran to contact Drogheda Garda Station on 041 987 4200 , the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, will be welcomed by the investigation team. This information will be treated in the strictest confidence".

"No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing".

In an earlier statement ,An Garda Síochána have stood down the appeal for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of Dayla Durnin (24 years) on 4th September 2024. They said the following :

"An Garda Síochána issued a media appeal for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of Dayla Durnin (24 years) on 4th September 2024. This appeal is now being stood down".

"An Garda Síochána would like to thank the public and media for their assistance with this matter".

DEPT OF EDUCATION FAIL TO PLAN FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL NEEDS DESPITE CENSUS DATA AND GROWING POPULATION DEMAND

Monday 14th October 2024, 10:53 am

The reality of students having to travel to towns between 15KM and 25 km away from their home because there is no secondary school in Duleek is a perfect example of poor planning by the Department of Education.

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín who says despite having all the “Data it needs at its fingertips, the Dept of Education seems to be crippled with a complete lack of foresight and critical forward-planning”.

Cllr Tóibín says

“It’s not rocket science as the Census figures tell them all they need to know. The data in the Census Figures shows the population growth and the needs of this population. There isn't a secondary school in Meath that isn't already over-subscribed for school places. I find it incredible that the Department of Education seems unable to grasp this most rudimental of information”.

“Meanwhile, people’s lives are so unnecessarily adversely impacted by this inadequate planning and poor management”.

“Young students have to get up earlier and earlier to get to schools, located at significant distance from their home. They leave behind friends they have made at primary school, and are further affected by living far from their new post-primary school friends. This can lead to many students feeling isolated and suffering from a loss of peer support and camaraderie”.

“I am continuing to lobby the Minister for Education to provide a secondary school to serve the needs of children in the Duleek/Bellewstown area. There are over 700 children primary school-going children in Duleek alone. Add to this number, the students attending feeder schools in Knockcommon, Julianstown, Cushinstown, Mount Hanover and Donore.Furthermore, additional housing in coming on stream in Duleek and its environs”.

“One parent told me that this government appears to act in a reactive manner to the public services needs of the population - there seems to be an absence of proactive or forward planning and this is so frustrating. Parents and communities have to lobby and campaign for years before the powers-that-be take note that there are gaping holes in the provision of public services”.

“Obviously I’m not suggesting that secondary schools are built in every town in Meath, however,

where demand for a secondary school is clear, it makes no sense to have 100s and 100s of students bussed and driven to other towns in Meath East to access secondary school education”.

8 Individuals Charged to Appear at Drogheda District Court 14th October 2024

monday 14th October 2024, 08:55 am

Gardaí in Drogheda have charged eight individuals as part of ongoing investigations targeting organised criminal activity in County Louth.

They are scheduled to appear before Drogheda District Court this morning, Monday, 14th October, 2024, at 10:30 am.

Investigations are ongoing.

Last Stop for over 70s Bus Drivers is unfair - Councillor Dempsey

Friday 11th October, 13:20 pm

The mandatory retirement age of 70 for Bus Éireann drivers must be reviewed, as itdiscriminates against people who are capable of providing a valued service, according to Aisling Dempsey, a Meath County Councillor.

She said:"I have been contacted by several people just this year about the unfairness they feel about not being able to continue being a bus driver past their 70^thbirthday.

"These people are perfectly fit, healthy, medically assessed and licensed to drive a bus and yet they cannot, due to a one size fits all policy from Bus Éireann that means once somebody is 70 years old, they are deemed unfit to drive.

"If Bus Éireann's assessment systemsare good enoughto determine if someone in their late sixties can drive; surely they can make this assessment for 70 plus year olds. At a time when we need more bus drivers, not less, it would be smarter to use their current assessment system to determine those over 70s that can continue to drive.

"This policy is not only bluntly ageist, it also further worsens the ongoing bus driver shortage which is a nationwide issue as well as here in Meath."

Dempsey said she contacted Bus Éireann about the policy. In their response they said they have"no plan to increase the age limit."

Bus Éireannalso said they recently reviewed their Driver’s Minimum Age requirements and reduced the Minimum Age from 23/24 to 21.

Dempsey said reducing the minimum age requirements, while keeping the mandatory retirement age of 70, is unfair.

She said:"I am calling for the mandatory retirement age of 70 to be reviewed. If the minimum age can be reduced by several years, the retirement age can be changed.

"In the UK there is no upper age limit, just continuous assessment of drivers and bus driving has become a popular post retirement job there. Adopting this model would maintain safety levels and allow competent drivers to continue to contribute, whilst helping our communities."

It’s Been a Great Year for Slane and District Men’s Shed

Sunday 13th October 2024, 09:22 am

‘This has been another great year for our Shed - we’ve increased our membership and added on new facilities and activities in the past year’, Kevin Macken, Chairman of the Slane and District Men’s Shed, told a well-attended AGM on 7 October 2024.

‘We completed our major project – the field kitchen for the Meath River Rescue – and we have opened a new pottery studio and a kiln room. We have manual and electric pottery wheels as well as the tools and facilities needed for hand-building. Our pottery group is already working on gifts to sell at this year’s Slane Christmas Market.’

‘As in other years, we’ve had great support from the Louth Meath Education and Training Board’, Kevin said. ‘This year we’re putting on classes in mindfulness, computer skills, healthy eating and cooking, photography, physical exercise, and more’.

‘Our walking group continues to attract members whether for local walks or outings to museums and places like Croke Park.’

‘However, the Shed is not just about formal classes and skills development. It’s also a place where men come just to hang out and chat or play cards and pool’, he said.

Kevin paid tribute to the outgoing Shed Secretary, Pat Doyle, who is leaving the Committee after many years at the helm. ‘We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Pat who was the visionary and driving force behind the Shed.’, he told the members present.

Flagging that it was not all plain sailing, Kevin highlighted the necessity for succession planning within the Shed leadership. ‘We’re not getting any younger any of us and we don’t want to be spending all our time on administration’, he said. ‘We need to attract in more members as well as people with expertise in areas of importance to us.’

‘We’d love to hear from anyone who’s interested in what we do. If anyone wants to know more they can call me at 0866003636 or emailslanemensshedpro@gmail.com’, Kevin said

Creaking water infrastructure is a testament to Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael waste and incompetence – Darren O’Rourke TD

Friday 11th October 2024, 12:50 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Climate Action and the Environment, Darren O’Rourke TD, has slammed the government for falling asleep when it comes to wastewater treatment in Ireland. Decades of under-resourcing, bad planning and temporary fixes mean Ireland must now invest billions of euro in wastewater treatment infrastructure.

Commenting on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) annual wastewater treatment report, the Meath East TD said:

“Wastewater treatment in Ireland is not fit for purpose and is posing serious risks to our environment and to our health. Today’s report has highlighted yet another serious infrastructural deficit that successive Fianna Fail and Fine Gael governments have presided over for decades.

“Some of the detail contained in the report is truly shocking. Raw sewage is being pumped into 16 towns and villages every day. And there at least 73 areas identified where urgent upgrades are required.

“Despite these dire straits,Uisce Éireannhas claimed it will take at least two decades to fix these issues. Even the EPA agrees that this is totally unacceptable.

“For example, of those areas that require urgent upgrades,Uisce Éireannhas yet to begin work on over half of them.

“Instead of lighting a fire under Uisce Éireann and mandating them to fix this broken system without delay, the government are content to sit on their hands, acting as mere commentators and absolving themselves of any responsibility.

“That is not good enough. Ireland cannot afford another 20 years of costly patchwork solutions that never get to the root of the issue.

“The more the government delays fixing the issues causing wastewater discharges the more cost to the taxpayer, the more risk to our health and more damage will be done to rivers, estuaries, lakes and coastal waters.

“It is yet another systemic failure at the heart of this government that the taxpayer will have to pay billions to fix and has proven to be typical of the wasteful and short-sighted Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.

“Government must compel Uisce Éireann to carry out their mandate and adhere to the EPA’s recommendations and provide the necessary investment to resolve these issues once and for all.”

Press Release from the Natural Women’s Council, Parents Rights Alliance and the Irish Education Alliance

5-October 2024

Thursday 10th October 2024, 09:25 am

On Thursday the 26^thof September, the Natural Women’s Council released a thirty minute interview with a teacher.Last year, Minister for Education Norma Foley signed off on a new SPHE curriculum for 12 to 15 year olds that includes controversial learning outcomes, overriding parents objections. These objections were submitted in 2022 to the NCCA pursuant to its Junior Cycle SPHE consultation process. 4,353 parents made submissions to the NCCA and it is widely believed that the vast majority of those submissions were extremely concerned about elements of the proposed curriculum, however those concerns were almost completely ignored by the NCCA.

We have been blown away and utterly heartened by the tremendous public response to that interview which has got over half a million views.This highlights the fact that it may now be prudent for the Department of Education and the NCCA to revisit some of these controversial learning outcomes.

The teacher gave graphic details of the material presented during the year-long SPHE graduate diploma teacher-training course she attended at DCU from February 2023 to February 2024. This course is designed to train SPHE teachers for the roll out the new SPHE course.

The teachers participated in activities led by DCU lecturers that could be mirrored in the classroom and these activities did reference rimming, fisting, anal sex, masturbation and pornography.

The materials shown in the interview are photographs and copies of the actual material used on the one year DCU Graduate Diploma course to instruct the SPHE teachers on what could be used in RSE classes.

34 teachers to date have completed this year-long DCU course and others have completed the two-day OIDE in-service course.OIDE’s role is to support the professional learning of school leaders and teachers. She also attended training from OIDE on two separate occasions on the new junior cycle specification. During both of these training sessions she was guided to the supporting documents for the new Junior cycle SPHE on what makes a safe and inclusive classroom.These documents advised teachers how to greet their students and how to ensure that students maintain confidentiality in the classroom.

The teacher is very disappointed that the Department of Education and Minister Foley would release a statement to principals in the Irish school system stating that what she expressed was misrepresentation and disinformation.The teacher can categorically state that it was never made evident that the materials used in the DCU course were for adults, as the intent was that these were potential resources that could be used in the classroom.

The teacher feels that SPHE plays a very important role in the education of young people in Irish schools, however aspects of the SPHE programme are moving in a direction that could be detrimental to many children.As a result, she felt compelled to step away from her post as a SPHE teacher and coordinator.

We call on the Minister to immediately rescind this Junior Cycle SPHE curriculum. The DCU course designed to roll out the curriculum must be shut down. All schools should be instructed to remove any SPHE textbooks issued pursuant to the new curriculum and to cease teaching it.

An investigation into the exclusion of parents’views from the Junior SPHE curriculum consultation process must be undertaken. While thousands of ordinary parents submitted comments rejecting the highly sexualised approach to the new SPHE Curriculum, their views were completely ignored in the final draft of the new SPHE Curriculum. Meanwhile liberal NGO’s and LGBTQ groups were heavily consulted and engaged with by the NCCA directly during the consultation process. Parents groups by contrast were locked out, including the Catholic Secondary School Parents Association. The National Parents Council was consulted but their representative is an advocate for the transgender group TENI and did not represent the vast majority of parents.We also call on the proposed changes to the Senior Cycle and Primary School curriculums be halted until a full investigation is complete.

Our TDs in the Dail need to step up and conduct a full and formal investigation into the DCU course and the sexualisation of Irish children in our schools immediately. A root and branch investigation into who is pushing this agenda and for what reasons? This is sure to be a general election campaign issue given parents’ reaction to the video.

Pursuant to the Irish Constitution, parents are the primary educators of their children. While over four thousand parents wrote in in relation to the SPHE consultations, the NCCA ridiculed and belittled those responses and the Minister either ignored parents’ concerns or she was not advised of them. Either way, this is not going to go away, parents are deeply upset about the new SPHE Curriculum and are pursuing all legitimate means to have it rejected.

Pic : Courts.ie

Meath Man (34) accused of sharing child sex abuse images and videos on Kik app to face trial

Wednesday 9 October 2024, 13:40 pm

The Drogheda Independent has reported that a 34-year-old man accused of distributing child sex abuse images and videos has been returned for trial to Trim Circuit Court on October 22.

A garda gave evidence at Drogheda District Court of arresting the defendant on September 3 last for the purpose of charge and said that he made no comment after caution.

A book of evidence was subsequently served after the DPP directed a prosecution on indictment on a total of 12 charges, including two for alleged drugs offences.

There was consent to a send forward for sentence on signed pleas should that occur.

Judge Ciarán Liddy gave the alibi warning and made a Section 56 order before remanding the accused on his own bail to which there was no garda objection.

Legal aid was granted for a solicitor, barrister and senior counsel.

The man is accused of, on October 3, 2023, at an address in Co. Meath, distributing child pornography images and videos and sharing same with other Kik users.

He is also charged with knowingly possessing child pornography for the purpose of distribution, publication, exportation, sale, or show.

The defendant is accused of, on October 6, 2023, at the same location, having five videos and four images of child sex abuse on a Samsung electronics device; and possession and possession for sale or supply of cocaine.

Gardaí seek public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 17-year-old  missing from Malahide

Tuesday 8th September 2024, 15:45 pm

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 17-year-old Aisling Byrne who is missing from the Malahide area of Dublin since Monday, 7th October 2024.

Aisling is described as being approximately 5ft 5 inches in height with a slim build, red hair and green eyes.

When last seen, Aisling was wearing brown hoodie, black cargo pants and white trainers.

Anyone with any information on Aisling’s whereabouts are asked to contact Malahide Garda Station (01) 6664600 the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

EXPLICIT, GRAPHIC AND OVER-SEXUALISED MATERIAL IN SCHOOLS

Monday 7th October 2024, 08:55 am

“The Minister for Education, Norma Foley has serious questions to answer around the new Social, Personal and Health Education curriculum (SPHE)and needs to be held to account for it”

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín who says

“Claims from a secondary school teacher detailing graphic content intended for children as young as 12 years of age is an issue of major concern for me. It is completely inappropriate for this age group, and I share the apprehension of the numerous people across my constituency and beyond who have been contacting me over the last few weeks to express their disquiet about this”.

“Children as young as twelve years of age are being exposed to the most explicit and graphic over sexualised material in schools”.

“We have sent in PQs (Parliamentary Questions) to the Minister for Education who needs to stand up and make a full and transparent statement on her department’s involvement in this. This is a most serious issue, and she needs to be upfront. Dismissing people's concerns stating they are misrepresentations will not cut it.The content is there, in black and white across many of the SPHE textbooks “.

“Many parents and educators alike feel that this material is clearly not suitable for young adolescents who are only beginning to navigate through their formative years. I believe it is vital that more parents are made aware of what their children are exposed to in the classroom. Also, I know that many teachers also feel particularly uncomfortable with the prospect of teaching this material; they are deeply worried for their young pupils”.

“Who designed this content for instance and who decided that the material should be so expressly graphic”.

“This SPHE curriculum also raises questions over the NGO’s that are involved in putting this curriculum together and who I believe have inordinate power. When the public was invited to sendin their submissions at the time of public consultation, where in the curriculum are their views reflected?”.

“Nobody is suggesting that children shouldn’t be taught about sex,of course theyshould but it has to be age appropriate and this clearly is not”.

“Incredibly, part of the text of this curriculum actually states that these very young students should not discuss the content outside the classroom”

“This is actually very unsettling and actually seeks to encourage a climate of secrecy, the very thing that this curriculum purports to banish”.

“It is unbelievably disturbing and goes against everything that young people are normally taught that secrecy is not a good thing, and openness with their parents and guardians is to be encouraged. There is a serious safeguarding issue here”.

“I am urging parents of young teenage boys and girls to take an active role in understanding the changes in material for this new curriculum and do some research around it. I believe it is essential that theylook intoit themselves in a bid to be properly informed about what their children are being taught”.

''Parents also need to review the SPHE books and resource material students will refer to over the course of the3 yearjunior cycle.Different schools use different books and parents can request that the books come home with their child”.

“I am of the view that parents have a vital role in encouraging meaningful discussions about these topics at home with their children. I am a firm and committed advocate for a curriculum that aligns with the values and comfort levels of both parents and educators, ensuring a safe and appropriate learning environment for all students”.

PQ’S SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY PEADAR TÓIBÍN TO MINISTER FOR EDUCATION RE SPHE

1.To ask the Minister for Education did she give permission forall ofthe content that was delivered on the SPHE teacher training in DCU from February 2023 to 2024? Why does the Minister believe that there should be no values attached to teaching of SPHE?

2.To ask the Minister for Education has she given permission for the OIDE Toolkit to be used in schools? Does the Minister support the idea that students should avoid heteronormative language? Has the Minister given permission for training to be given to SPHE teachers that they should introduce themselves to students using their personal pronouns? Has the Minister given permission for teaching to be delivered in SPHEon the basis ofgender affirmation rather than science? Has the Minister carried out any study into the damage caused to children by gender affirmation ideology? If so, will the Minister give examples of this research? Does the Minister realise that most European countries are reversing from the ideology of gender affirmationon the basis ofthe damage it does to children?

3. To ask the Minister for Education has the Minister given permission for students to be told by teachers that confidentially should exist over what is said in classrooms on SPHE discussions? Does the Minister understand that children should be allowed to discuss with their parents what happens in the classroom?

Fundraising night orgainised by the family Mark Duffy has been missing from Navan, Co Meath since 3rd October 2022

Thursday 3rd October 2024, 11:07 am

By Darren Donoghue

On the 3^rd of October 2022 Mark Duffy went missing from his home in Navan Co. Meath and his family have not seen or heard from him since.

On the morning of the 3^rd of October 2022 Mark collected a social welfare payment at a post office in the Johnstown Shopping Centre, Navan at 10:50am. Later on that day at approximately 14:45pm Mark was seen at a Centra shop on Commons Road, Navan, which is the last confirmed sighting of Mark.

A fundraising night has been organised by the family and friends of Mark Duffy.

The fundraising night has been organised to help raise funds and awareness for the missing persons

Of Ireland in association with the Duffy family.

There will be live Music on the night from local musicians from 8pm - 10.30pm followed by a DJ.

https://www.missingpersons.ie/

1800 442 552

If you think you may have seen Mark or that you may be able to assist the investigation, please contact any Garda station or contact Navan Garda Station investigating

Government spin on carbon tax funding for climate action totally exposed by C&AG - Darren O’Rourke TD

Thursday 3rd October 2024, 09:50 am

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Climate Action and the Environment, Darren O’Rourke TD, has hit out at the government’s inability to account for how nearly 40% of carbon tax increases were spent between 2020 and 2023.

Commenting on the recently released annual report of the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), the Meath East TD said:

“The C&AG says that between 2020 and 2023, €1.36bn in revenue from increases in carbon tax rates was allocated by the Department of Public Expenditure to specified expenditure programmes across five departments.

“This is in line with the year-on-year increases pushed through by government, despite the opposition of Sinn Féin and others. However, it is very clear now that the commitment to use these carbon tax increases to fund and deliver retrofitting, social protection and agriculture programmes has not happened.

“In fact, incredibly, the C&AG’s report noted that just 61% of the sum allocated could be verified as having been spent on the target schemes and programmes.

“This is absolutely incredible. It adds insult to injury and exposes the spin from government.

“Again and again and again, Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Greens have defended their punitive carbon tax increases by saying the funding was essential for the delivery of climate action programmes, in particular the National Retrofit Plan.

“This is despite the fact that year after year, including this year, Sinn Féin have shown how to invest more in climate action measures without increasing carbon tax. Instead, we take a fairer, more progressive approach by implementing environmental levies on excessive consumption and wealth, as well through the introduction of new taxes on capital.

“The government’s argument is now exposed as completely baseless. This comes as no surprise to me at all.

“The lack of financial oversight is equally shocking.

“The report indicates that, due to underspends in different departments, funds were returned to the Department of Social Protection and the Department of Public Expenditure.

“Of the 17% of funds which were given to the Department of Social Protection, for example, auditors noted that the payments were “not recorded in specific ‘carbon tax funding’ subheads” and it was not “possible to confirm” independently if they were spent correctly.

“Separately, the report noted that no central tracking system currently exists within the Department of Public Expenditure for carbon tax receipts. This means there is no way to determine if all carbon tax receipts are allocated to targeted areas.

“Despite all of these well-flagged issues, the government had absolutely no reservation about increasing the carbon tax yet again in yesterday’s budget adding to the enormous burden on already-struggling workers and families. Meanwhile, the wealthiest get off scot-free.

“In Sinn Féin, we have been steadfast in our opposition to this approach by government. Our position has been vindicated yet again.”

Over 2500 businesses in County Meath have received grants totalling €7.48m under the Increased Cost of Business Grant Scheme

Wednesday 02nd October 2024, 15:25 pm

74,716 businesses have received the grant nationally, with €241.68m paid to businesses

Meath County Council has announced that over 2500 businesses in the county have received €7.48m in grant funding under the Government’s Increased Cost of Business scheme.

The ICOB grant was designed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to help SMEs with the increased costs associated with running a business and was administered by the Local Authorities.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke said,“I was delighted to get Government approval for this important scheme to help small and medium enterprises, which are the backbone of our economy. I have spoken to dozens of businesses around the country who have availed of the €240m paid out so far, and we will continue to work with and support them. I would also like to acknowledge the work of the local authorities across the country and thank all the staff involved. They have contributed hugely to the success of the Scheme.”

Kieran Kehoe, Meath County Council Chief Executive said, “I warmly welcome this grant funding, which will provide significant relief for many Meath businesses. Recognising the integral role that small and medium enterprises play in the heart of our communities across Meath, our commitment, as detailed in our Economic Development Strategic Action Plan, remains steadfast in supporting local businesses. This is demonstrated by an ongoing project to establish a Centre of Business Excellence in Navan and the appointment of a dedicated Business Relationship Manager. These steps are designed to guide our businesses toward a myriad of available supports, ensuring their growth and success in our vibrant community.”

A total of €257 million was made available under the Scheme.

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O'Reilly - Families, women and children prioritised in Budget 2025

Wednesday 02 October 2024, 12:25pm

A Fianna Fáil General Election Candidate has said that families, women and children have been prioritised in Budget 2025.

Cllr Caroline O'Reilly, who is standing for the party in Meath East, said she also welcomed the inclusion of extra measures in the Budget supporting carers to alleviate pressures caused by the increased cost of living.

She said:"In Budget 2025 Fianna Fáil implemented measures to protectthe most vulnerable insociety, give families and households a break, safeguard the economy and prepare for the future.

"Parents will see two double payments of Child Benefit in November and December, as well as a €15 weekly increase in maternity, paternity and parents’ benefit, and a €400 lump sum for those in receipt of the working family payment.

" It provides an increase in the Carer's Allowance means test limits to €625 per week for a single person and €1,250 per week for a couple. In addition to this the Carer's Support Grant will be increased to €2,000.

“I welcome these steps, which are necessary to cushion people from the impact of inflation."

The Meath East candidate said Budget 2025 also underlines thecommitment by Fianna Fáil in government to revolutionise women's healthcare.

She said: "Improving menopause care has been a key priority of Fianna Fáil in government. I am delighted to see it confirmed in Budget 2025 by my party colleague Minister Donnelly that the state will provide free Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to women.

"This will save women between €360 and €840 annually, significantly easing this financial burden.

"Budget 2025 expands on the publicly funded IVF scheme. Just recently it was announced that over 1,200 couples have taken advantage of the scheme since it was first introduced a year ago, a real milestone that underlines the progress we have made in in supporting women's health."

Halloween Bonfire Prevention

Tuesday 1st of October 2024, 09:30 am

The public is advised against giving waste to local children for bonfires and asked to ensure their bins are secure.

Meath County Council has announced free Halloween drop-off events for householder's bulky waste at recycling centres in Navan, Trim, Kells and Dunboyne to help prevent bonfire activity.

It is each individual's responsibility to dispose of their waste correctly and legally. Any individual who provides waste material for burning in a bonfire will be committing a criminal offence.

Speaking about bonfires in Meath, community warden Alan Nolan said, “A number of sites are being built already, and when we notice them, we remove them. It costs the taxpayers of Meath thousands of euros to remove this waste. Bonfires are often held in fields, causing damage to the land, local ecology, and air quality. They are also hazardous for the young people who attend, with many significant injuries occurring each year. Many of the items found were given to the children by adults from garage clearances. All bulky waste should go to a recycling centre or a permitted skip provider”

To prevent bonfires in your area, the public is advised to keep items such as pallets, furniture, tyres, skip contents, and even wheelie bins out of sight.

Free drop-off events will take place on the following dates:

• Navan Recycling Centre – Monday, October 21stand Tuesday, October 22nd
• Trim Recycling Centre – Wednesday, October 23rdand Thursday, October 24th
• Kells Recycling Centre – Friday, October 25thand Saturday, October 26th
• Thornton’s Recycling Centre, Dunboyne – Wednesday, October 23rdto Saturday, October 26th (please note, the recycling centre closes at 1.00pm on Saturday)

Domestic bulky waste accepted: furniture suites, beds, divans, bed frames, flooring, duvets, pillows, toys, doors, and windows.

Please note that mattresses, paint, domestic waste, green waste, and commercial waste are not included in the free event.

If you have any queries, please emailenvironment@meathcoco.ie.

Increase in CCTV cameras and Garda presence required to stop mini-crime waves on Trim Court days - Dempsey

Cllr Aisling Dempsey has called for a "significant increase" in CCTV cameras and Garda presence in Trim, with businesses reporting 'mini-crime waves' in the days the court is sitting in Trim.

Cllr Dempsey, who was recently selected to stand in Meath West for Fianna Fáilin the next General Election, said,

"More CCTV and increased Garda presence in Trim is required to tackle increases in incidences of theft, shoplifting, anti social and criminal behaviour particularly on days the court is sitting. Trim Traders, businesses and town residents have raised serious concerns about theft, shoplifting and general anti social and criminal behaviour in the town.

"I've asked theGarda Superintendent to increase the Garda presence in the town, particularly on the days the courts are sitting because businesses and residents are reporting that the incidences of theft, shoplifting and anti-social and criminal behaviour coincide with days when court is sitting.

"I am also calling for a CCTV scheme to be rolled out in Trim. Over the Summer, it was announced that Navan will see a tenfold increase in the number of cameras in the town. Trim needs the same.

"I believe that these measures would effectively tackle this behaviour within weeks and I am engaging with all stakeholders on this issue.

"In April, €1 million in funding was made available for community CCTV schemes by the Department of Justice for county councils and the Council should explore this and all other possible options to increase the number of CCTV cameras in Trim so Gardaícan be helped in their efforts.

"Everyone has the right to feel safe and be safe in their communities. I look forward to meeting with the Superintendent who has agreed to attend our next council meeting and will work to find proactive solutions to this increase in crime and anti-social behaviour."

CALL ON GOVERNMENT TO REMOVE TOLL CHARGES AT PEAK TIMES FOR MEATH COMMUTERS - Tóibín

Monday 30th September 2024, 09:30 am

Meath Commuters are paying thousands on tolls per year and one Councillor is calling on the Government to remove toll charges from 6 to 9 am and 4.30 to 6.30 pm in a bid to give the counties hard-pressed commuters a break.

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín says Meath has the largest number of commuters in the county and they are being disproportionately hit.

Cllr Tóibín says :

“There are 4 tolls in the county and someone living in Kells or Cavan and working in south Dublin can be hitfor €3,600 a year just on tolls.This is a huge outlay at a time when cost of living costs are continuing to spiral. The government cannot have it both ways - either provide a viable commuter transport offering or stop penalising Meath commuters. Fuel hikes and carbon taxes disproportionately affect Meath motorists more”.

“Commuters from the county experience the longest commuting times inthe entire country, despiteMeath being one of the closest counties to Dublin in distance. It is not unusual to hear or 4-hour commutes and this will only increase into the future”.

“Census 2022 revealed damning statistics about the commuter travails endured by Meath commuters every day”.

“Meath has the largest number of commuters in the country. More Meath workers leave Meath to go to work than actually work in the county. This is completely unique to Meath and does not happen in any other county in Ireland. Meath people commute further than commuters in any other county andNavan is the biggest town without a rail line”.

Cllr Tóibín says :

“We have been campaigning for years to extend the rail line to Navan, which will have untold benefits in terms of investment, regeneration and in the fight against climate change. Not a day goes by without a constituent contacting me about commuter services failing to show, full buses passing them by and cancelled services 2 or 3 days a week. More and more people are being forced to return to their car in order to get to work on time or attend important appointments”.

“Navan, only an hour from Dublin” was a popular and catchy tagline from an ad campaign for the Co. Meath town in the 70’s and 80’s, and I dearly wish that was the case today”.

“It’s more like four now”.

Housing adaptation grants to be increased - O'Reilly

Friday 27th September 2024, 11:11 am

Over 30% increase in grant limits and an increase in income thresholds of 25% to be introduced meaning more will now be eligible for enhanced grants

Cllr Caroline O'Reilly has welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien of his intention to increase grant limits by over 30% and the income thresholds by 25% for those applying for support under the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme.

The planned proposed changes follow today’s publication of the Report on the Review of the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme. The review recommends an increase in grant limits in excess of 30% and an increase in income thresholds of 25%. The report also recommends adjusting the burden sharing for local authorities by reducing the local authority funding contribution to 15% (from the existing 20%) together with a number of amendments to the means test.

These changes, which will mean that more people will qualify for these grants, are expected to take effect in Q1 next year.

Commenting, Cllr O'Reilly said: “Having called for an increase to both the grant limits and the thresholds for some time now I am delighted to see that Minister O'Brien has received Cabinet approval to do just that. Grant limits will increase by €10,000 in some circumstances which will be welcome news to many.

“I am particularly pleased to hear that the means testing arrangements will also be amended so that just the owner/tenant and their spouse will be assessed and that a person’s income ‘in year’ can be taken account of in certain circumstances.

“These grants are a lifeline for many families and individuals. The ESRI projections indicate that the numbers of people aged over 65 will more than double to 1.3 million people by 2040. As more people live longer lives, they will want to stay healthy and independent, live in their own homes and communities and keep to a minimum their use of in-patient and out-patient hospital services.

“Since taking office, Fianna Fáil in Government has increased the investment in these grants by over 27% from €73m in 2020 to €93m in 2024. It’s appropriate now that we make the grants easier to access and to support as many people as possible to age with dignity in their homes,” O'Reilly concluded.

COME TO NAVAN MINISTER RYAN, TO MEET THE COMMUTERS WHO MISS HOSPITAL APPOINTMENTS , FLIGHTS AND WORK DUE TO ‘GHOST’ BUSES - Tóibín

Thursday 26th September 2024, 08:55 am

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín has thrown down the gauntlet to the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan, asking him to come to Navan for just one week to experience firsthand “the haphazard public transport services Meath commuters are forced to endure”.

Cllr Tóibín says

“Missing job interviews, hospital appointments, flights, trains and other important engagements is the daily lot for the hard-pressed commuters in Navan and the wider county of Meath who have what can only be described as a deplorable public transport service.The stress of worrying about getting to work on time on time takes its toll”''

“It’s bad but it’s getting steadily worse.When buses actually do turn up, people can’t get a seat as there are more passengers than seatsand in the rare event of a bus arriving on time, it can have several broken seats or can break down as happened last week .I would like to see Minister Ryan having to contend with the oft-torturous experience of standing on a packed bus for almost two hours every day for what should actually be a 55 minute journey each way”.

“'One commuter told me he would have to give up his job were it not possible for him to work from home 3 days a week. He describes the hours spent every week trying to get to work as ‘soul destroying’ and there is nothing in the offing to indicate any improvement”.

“Another commuter told me that she dreads September, knowing that she will spend hours just trying to get to and from work, a depressing and dismal prospect”.

“Commuters who are trying to cut down their car journeys have no alternative but to return to their car and drive to Dublin for work.And this is under the watch of a Green Minister for Transport, it’s beyond belief”.

“Bus Eireann surpassed itself recently whenit cancelled 9 journeys in the one day,many at peak time, leaving hundreds of commuters absolutely stranded and seething. The knock-on effect of all these cancellations on customers is immense and extremely trying. All this could not happen at a worse time for commuters as they brace themselves for what now is the annual surge and scramble for seats on the bus with the additional demand on capacity by college students”.

“We know Meath's population is one of the fastest growing in the entire country. The government knows this. The census shows this clearly. And the age demographic puts Meath's young cohort amongst the highest on the island. But when it comes to planning and future-proofing demand and capacity, government action is at best reactionary.Again it points to a complete lack of planning by this Government”.

Cllr Tóibín says that

“While the HR and Maintenance departments of Bus Eireann have made progress in recent months with their recruitment campaign for heavy vehicle mechanics, they are seeing several pinch points where parts from vehicle manufacturers are just not available”.

“While they say their maintenance department is working closely with all suppliers to overcome these issues, this gives little reassurance to commuters for now considering THE EXTRA CAPACITY DEMAND BY students AND NEWCOMERS TO Navan to public transport. Existing capacity and reliability issues need serious prioritisation and focus now before additional demand is added to the mix”.

“Nothing beats a personal experience for effecting change , so my invitation to Minister Ryan is on the table, I’m very happy to stand in the bus queues in Navan with him to waiting for the ‘ghost services’ so he can see for himself what commuters have to endure.

Picture :Cllr Caroline O'Reilly

O’Reilly conducting survey of public transport experiences in Ratoath and Ashbourne

Wednesday 25th September 2024, 14:14 pm

Cllr Caroline O’Reilly is conducting a survey of commuters in the Ratoath and Ashbourne areas on their experiences with public transport.

Cllr O’Reilly, who was recently selected to contest the Meath East constituency for Fianna Fáil in the next General Election, said the survey is hugely important as it will provide her with the hard evidence needed to get an overview of commuters’ experiences.

This will allow her to engage with stakeholders such as Bus Éireann and the Department of Transport and strengthen her case for improved public transport locally.

She said:“Ashbourne is one of the fastest growing towns in Meath East, Ratoath is one of the biggest and there are a number of bus routes that residents have contacted me with issues about.

“I have been meeting with residents in both the Ratoath and Ashbourne areas who are frustrated with the existing levels of public transport services and finding themselves stuck in traffic.

“As a commuter myself, I am very aware that there needs to be an improvement in the level of public transport provided in Meath East.

"I’m starting this survey in the Ratoath and Ashbourne areas, but I am acutely aware of the transport problems, bottlenecks, delays and issues elsewhere, such as Dunboyne and Dunshaughlin.

“Good public transport is the key to so much on our community. The longer we have at home rather than commuting, the more time we have for family, for exercise, for local shopping and socialising. It is a priority for me as a public representative.

"Community engagement is absolutely vital to this process. I will be keeping the survey open for two weeks to collate as much information as possible, and completing the survey will only take a couple of minutes.”

The survey can be accessed online here:https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/62F6DN3

Online Troll defames over 250 individuals by posting online Pictures Ashboure/Ratoath Noticeboards

Thursday 23^rd September 2024, 20:05 pm

An online troll has posted names and pictures of over 250 Facebook profiles in a scathing attack on social media.

The Troll who goes by the name “Jackie” has been bullying and harassing innocent locals by posting allegations regarding protests in Thornton Hall on the Ashbourne and Ratoath Noticeboards on Facebook for numerous months.

Thornton Hall which is located on the Meath/Dublin border just outside the town of Ashbourne Co. Meath is set to become home to 1,000 male asylum seekers.With many locals objecting to the IPAS Centre due to the lack of infrastructure in place and many locals feeling “left in the dark” regarding the lack of clear communication from the government about the IPAS Centre.

In one post on “Ashbourne Locals Noticeboard” on social media, the troll names seventeen individuals and attached screenshots of over 250 profile pictures of innocent victims.

One Ashbourne local gave Boyne News their thoughts about online troll scathing attack. 

They said:

“It’s disgraceful that somebody is allowed to publicly name innocent people on social media, but what I find humorous is despite naming all these people she chooses to hide behind a fake page”.

The posts are clearly a breach of the The Defamation Act which states ”defamation consists of publication by any means, of a defamatory statement concerning a person, to one or more other persons”.

With so many innocent individuals being affected, there has been an outcry on social media for more to be done about online trolls. We have been told in one case that the local authorities are now investigating the allegations and another source  has gotten legal advice.

Ashbourne local Darragh Duggan told Boyne News:  "I think it's appalling that an anonymous troll can try and intimidate people by making reckless allegations online”.

“What is more disturbing is that the authorities are currently turning a blind eye”.

“Tho I do feel sorry for him as this obsession is not the someone who is of sound mind and likely a cry for help”.

“Hopefully someone can support him and ensure he gets the care and attention needed”.

Our Final source gave there thoughts on the shallow attack. They said:

“The publication of this of people is an extremely shallow attempt to do what is sadly too common these days”.

“It is an attempt to blacken and silence a large number of concerned parents, most of whom are pro-immigration and some are the nicest people you are likely to meet. Are there bad apples in this group? Most likely there are a few, unfortunately. However, this should not reflect on the majority of good meaning concerned citizens in this group”.

“The label of "anti-immigration" is laughable really. A number of group members opened their homes to Ukranian refugees and made them part of their families. That doesn't sound like someone who opposes migration. Like most things, the topic is complicated and nuanced, and broadband negative labels for the entire group are not constructive”.

“Whoever wrote this attempt at a hit piece should (at the very least) provide their own personal details. They should have to courage to stand behind their convictions, but I expect they will hide behind some psedoname. Of course, this only provides further evidence that this list of names is not simply from a random member of the community. It is far more likely that it is from one of the well-funded NGOs, or some other sinister group”.

Boyne News has contacted a local Councillor about this scathing attack, we await a response.

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Garda Alert issued in locating Silver Nissan Qashqai Hatchback

Monday 23rd September 2024, 15:23 pm

An Garda Síochána urgently requests public assistance in locating a missing vehicle, Silver Nissan Qashqai Hatchback, registration number 10-D-21328

This vehicle was last seen in the Mountjoy Square area of Dublin City Centre at approximately 1:50pm this afternoon.

Members of the public with any information are asked not to approach the vehicle but to report any information or sighting by calling 999/112.

Meath Joint Policing Committee launches poster initiative in partnership with

Meath Comhairle na nÓg & NERTADF

Monday 23rd September, 13:30 pm

Meath Joint Policing Committee Subcommittee on Community Safety and Crime Prevention has teamed up with Meath Comhairle na nÓg and the North Eastern Regional Drugs & Alcohol Task Force (NERDATF) to create a poster campaign highlighting emergency crisis phone numbers and advice to young people on what to do in an emergency situation where a friend may have consumed too much alcohol or drugs.

The initiative, funded by Meath County Council’s Joint Policing Committee, will be rolled out across the County. Posters targeting young people will be displayed in various locations throughout the county and distributed to Meath secondary schools, Community Centre’s, Youthreach and Youth Groups.

Speaking about the initiative, Cllr. Gillian Toole, Chairperson of the Subcommittee, said, “After networking with the subcommittee, Comhairle na nÓg, and NERDATF, the idea for the poster campaign was developed. The main goal of this campaign is to help young people seek assistance in emergency situations and know who to contact. Keeping our young people safe is paramount.”

The 3 faces of Ireland's immigration crisis

Saturday 21st September, 18:55 pm

For the past number of months, certain communities around the country have been at boiling point and the reason for this is Ireland's mass immigration crisis.

Immigration is the topic of conversation across the country weather you are pro or anti-immigration. One could argue that there is a civil divide within the country regarding Asylum Seekers and immigration.

Figures released in July this year state that In the first half of 2024, 10,604 people applied for asylum in Ireland; almost double the number that applied in the same period last year. Integration minister Roderic O’Gorman estimated last week that by the end of the year there could be between 21,000 and 22,000 applicants.

Many towns across Ireland have been divided as the government have set up centres to house those seeking asylum in Ireland, also known as IPAS centres.

 Newtownmountkennedy and Coolock are two locations where the government tend to house asylum seekers.

Closer to home, The D hotel in Drogheda Co. Louth is now housing asylum seekers, while in Meath an IPAS centre in Navan is set hold up to 70 people seeking international protection.

 On the border of Meath and Dublin, located just outside Ashbourne lies Thorthon Hall.  Thornton Hall comprises of 150 acres of former farmland which now state-owned. The 150-acre site is set to house up to 1,000 single man asylum seekers will be one of the biggest IPAS Centres in Ireland.

On Thursday night, RTE aired RTE Investigates: Inside the Protest. Barry O' Kelly, the lead journalist behind the documentary showed behind the scenes footage of the Anti-immigration public protests.

One could argue that documentary was one-sided, providing a false narrative or completely fact based, but that is an argument for another day.

After watching the documentary and having been reporting about the IPAS Centres in the local areas in recent weeks, this reporter firmly believes there is a divide or split in the country regarding the immigration crisis. The three faces of Ireland.

Our trademark saying in Ireland is Céad Míle Fáilte is the traditional Irish greeting, which means a hundred thousand welcomes, and reflects the generous and hospitable nature of the Irish. The first side of the faces of Ireland present this and they are the pro-immigration side.

One example of those welcoming asylum seekers is a group called Newtownmountkennedy together. In the RTE special its talks to a member of the group who offers help to those seeking asylum in the area, offering help through English classes or offering lifts to those looking for help. But for some they are afraid to announce publicly that they are affiliated with group due to fears of reprisals.

Why wouldn’t we be a welcoming country, as millions of our ancestors left Ireland from the famine times to up to the present day in search of better life, with many Irish immigtraing to the United States, Australia and the UK to name a few.

The Pro-immigration side has held counter protests to their opposite sides.

The second face of Ireland is anti-immigration side. Many people would call them the “Far-right”, but this is not the case. We will get to the far-right in a few moments.

 The anti-immigration side is made up of concern citizens of Ireland who are worried about the escalating Immigration crisis. As said in the prime time special that they are stone-walled when they ask questions or when they look for information regarding IPAS centres in their locality. They question the amount of unvetted are allowed into the country without any prior history checks or required identification such as a passport.

You also have to take into account that we are in a the middle of a housing crisis at present and it makes it a  perfect storm.

In the Documentary, the investigation team tried to get an actual number of those unvetted/ undocumented coming into the country and failed. Yet a leader of a political party was able to disclose such figures.

Aontú Leader and Meath West TD, Peadar Tóibín stated in a recent press release:

“We found out that 5,000 people came through Dublin Airport without a passport last year. Aontú found out that 80% of asylum applicants last year applied at the IPO office. Shockingly the Ministers Office did not know, nor was asking how these people came into the country”

We now come to the next face of Ireland “The Far right”.

This are a break off from group anti-immigration side and are more radical. After watching the RTE documentary, the breaking away group tend to be more violent, co-ordinating attacks on proposed IPAS Centres and one could argue they are racially motivated as well.

Throughout the documentary the amount of racist abuse from these so called “protestors” was shocking. The feature which was mainly filmed in Coolock at the  former Crown Paints sites, show a disgusting amount of racial slurs towards security at the site and towards Asylum seekers”.

At one point in the feature, it shows local Fine Gael candidate Mattathil Mathew who is originally from India, was erecting posters with his team near Kilmore on when he was approached by four men. It shows the men telling the Dublin City Council candidate to take down the poster he was erecting, with one of the men heard saying “f*** off back from where you came from ... this is our country”.

This is just one example of the breakaway anti-immigration group.

To finish, we are now a divided nation once again and the civil unrest will continue to rumble on until the government properly addresses the immigration crisis.

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Guirke Raises Concerns in Dáil Over Delays in Bailey Hill Development, Navan

Thursday 19 September 2024,  11:55 am

On return of the Dáil, Deputy Johnny Guirke raised urgent concerns regarding the ongoing delays in the Bailey Hill development in Navan, being undertaken by Kingscroft Developments. The situation has become increasingly dire for families eagerly awaiting their new homes.

Deputy Guirke stated, “One couple, who signed a sale agreement in February 2023, were initially informed that they would be moving in by May 2023, just three months before the birth of their child. Thirteen months later, they are still waiting for their keys, causing immense stress and uncertainty for their young family.”

The estate agent collected a €5,000 booking deposit from the couple on February 28, 2023. Furthermore, Kingscroft has claimed over €26,000 from the Help to Buy scheme this year and an additional €6,320 shortly thereafter. “While they are quick to take payments, their progress on completing the homes has been frustratingly slow,” Deputy Guirke remarked.

The couple is now facing the prospect of needing a fourth mortgage approval this December, a situation that is causing significant confusion and distress. Their repeated attempts to get updates from Kingscroft have gone unanswered, leaving them feeling abandoned and hopeless.

“The estate agent has shifted blame to external entities such as ESB and Uisce Éireann, neglecting to hold the builder accountable for the delays,” Deputy Guirke continued. “The contract stipulates that if the homes are not completed by February 2025, Kingscroft will be in breach of contract.”

In April, Deputy Guirke highlighted this issue and at that time their was a WhatsApp group of 45 affected individuals formed, all facing similar challenges.

Deputy Guirke concluded, “I urge the Government and the Minister for Housing to intervene and demand a clear timeline from Kingscroft Developments for when these families can expect to receive their keys to their new homes.

Pic: Cllr Linda Nelson Murray

Linda Nelson Murray selected as Fine Gael Meath West general election candidate, as Damien English steps away

Thursday 19^th September, 09:20 am

Last night in The Newgrange Hotel in Navan Co. Meath, Navan councillor Linda Nelson Murray was selected as the Fine Gael candidate for Meath West for the next general election.

Her appointment last night now means that 3 women from Fine Gael will now run in both Meath East and Meath West. Helen McEntee, Sharon Tolan and Linda Nelson Murray will be representing Fine Gael in the general election.

Linda Nelson Murray took to social media to express her gratitude. She said:

“ I am completely blown away to have won the selection to contest the General Election for Meath West last night. My colleague and friend Damien English stepped down last night after 22yrs as a TD and I was chosen by the members as the person to go and try and win that seat”.

“It means that 3 women from Fine Gael will now run in both Meath East and Meath West”.

“This whirlwind is just surreal but I will do everything I can and work as hard as I can over the coming weeks and months so I’ll be seeing you at the doors! “

It was also announced last night that Damien English is steeping away from politics. He released the following statement last night on social media. He said:

““Over the past year, along with my job as TD for Meath West I dedicated a lot of my time as Fine Gael’s Director of Local Elections up and down the country.  I enjoyed working to find a new wave of candidates for Fine Gael, helping people on their journey into politics by mentoring, training and campaigning with them.

I was impressed by the drive, the determination and the new sparks of energy from our 339 candidates wanting to contribute to their community and make a solid impact on Ireland’s future.

It was an honour to work as part of a team which saw 245 Councillors elected on June 7th.  These Councillors are the future of Fine Gael. They represent a new wave and a new energy under the leadership of An Taoiseach, Simon Harris TD.

I have reflected quite a lot since June 7th.   While I love every single day of my job, I also know that the time is right to make way for the new wave of talent to take over from me for Fine Gael in Meath West.

Tonight, I have informed the members of Fine Gael in Meath West that I won’t be contesting the next general election.

I do so in the knowledge that support for Fine Gael is rising.  Our Party leader Simon Harris TD is flying.  He is dynamic, buzzing with energy and full of new ideas. Simon is determined to deliver the very best for our people and our country.

I love politics and politics will never leave me.  My focus now is to make sure we hold our Dáil seat in Meath West and that Simon Harris is returned as Taoiseach after the next General Election.  I am delighted to fully endorse Linda Nelson Murray as our candidate for Meath West.  Having worked closely with her for the past five years I know she is the best person to win the seat and be a strong, fresh voice for the people of Meath in the Dáil.

I had the privilege and honour to represent the great county of Meath for over 25 years; serving on Meath County Council for five years, as a TD for 22 years and as a Minister of State for over 9 years across 5 Government Departments.

I want to sincerely thank everyone who voted for me since my first election in 1999. I am so grateful to everyone who took the time to engage with me and work with me on the issues that mattered most to them.

I would like to recognise the dedication and diligence of my wonderful teams, both constituency and ministerial, in supporting me and my constituents throughout my time as TD and Minister of State.

I acknowledge the incredible support locally from the Fine Gael membership in Meath West.  Thank you for putting your trust in me.  As someone who started off in politics at 21 years of age, I made many new friends and experienced many great mentors along the way. I hope to pay this forward in a supporting role for the next wave in Fine Gael.

Finally, to Laura and my family.  Thank you for your support and help, always.”

Slane Tourism Donates €1,000 to Slane tidy towns in recognition of Outstanding Community Work

Wednesday 18th September 2024, 15:30 pm

Slane Tourism is delighted to announce the donation of €1,000 to the Slane Tidy Towns Committee, as a small gesture of appreciation for their dedication to enhancing the beauty and charm of our village. This donation recognises the Tidy Towns' continuous efforts in maintaining a clean and vibrant village.

Slane Tidy Towns has been a cornerstone of our community, working tirelessly to ensure that our village remains a picturesque and welcoming place for both residents and visitors.

Slane Tourism is proud to support such an invaluable community group. This €1,000 donation is a small token of our gratitude for the countless hours of voluntary work put in by the Tidy Towns team.

Speaking on behalf of Slane Tourism, Chairperson Tadhg Carolan said: "The work of the Slane Tidy Towns Association really helps to maintain the unique character of our village. Their dedication and hard work deserves to be supported. We hope this donation will help Slane Tidy Towns continue their fantastic work."

The Tidy Towns Association in Slane is part of a national initiative in Ireland aimed at enhancing the environment of towns and villages across the country. The Tidy Towns competition, which began in 1958, has encouraged communities like Slane to improve their local environment and make their area a better place to live, work and visit.

Picture : Sinn Féin

Central Bank commentary highlights need for radical reset on housing policy to deliver more public and private homes – Eoin Ó Broin TD

Wednesday 18th September,  13:49 pm

Sinn Féin housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD has said that today’s Central Bank commentary is further evidence of the need for a radical reset of housing policy. He said that Sinn Féin’s alternative housing plan is that radical reset to deliver the most ambitious housing programme in the history of the state and to bring home ownership back into the reach of working people.

Teachta Ó Broin said:

“Today’s Central Bank commentary on housing confirms the growing gap between what is needed to fix the housing crisis and what the Government is delivering.

“The report estimates that between 52,000 and 67,000 new homes a year are needed to meet existing and emerging need over the next decade or more. This is broadly in line with the Housing Commission recommendation of 60,000 new homes a year over the next 10 years to meet pent up demand as quickly as possible.

“The report also confirms that this year’s housing output is likely to be similar to last year’s 32,000 new homes, despite Government Ministers trying to suggest we can reach 40,000 this year.

“The report also highlights the challenges around planning, funding and workforce productivity, all of which the Government has done little to address.

“Yet again, the Taoiseach’s promises to deliver housing have been exposed as nothing more than rhetoric. While he has soundbites and spin, Sinn Féin actually has a plan.

“As Sinn Féin has set out in our alternative Housing Plan, A Home of Your Own, we need a radical reset of housing policy along with greater ambition and greater direct state investment. Our plan would bring the dream of home ownership back into the reach of working people.

“Unfortunately, there is little evidence that the current Government is up for that reset or willing to accept the key recommendations of either the Housing Commission report or those contained in the Central Bank commentary today.

“Sinn Féin is committed to ending Ireland’s housing crisis. We will deliver the most ambitious public housing programme in the history of the state to ensure that everyone has a home of their own.”

An Garda Síochána play prominent role in Global Coalition of Law Enforcement which takes down new Criminal Communication Platform

Wednesday 18th september, 13:27pm

•€15,200,000 Cocaine seized
•€350,000 Cash seized
•€320,000 Cannabis seized
•€100,000 Heroin seized
•33 searches
•11 arrests
•Crypto Currency seized
•42 suspected Ghost ECC encrypted devices
•153 other electronic devices

An Garda Síochána working with Europol and Eurojust, together with law enforcement and judicial authorities from around the world, have successfully dismantled an encrypted communication platform that was established for facilitating serious and organised crime perpetrated by dangerous criminal networks operating on a global scale.

The platform, known as Ghost, was used to facilitate a wide range of criminal activities, including large-scale drug trafficking, money laundering, instances of extreme violence and other forms of serious and organised crime.

Ghost had gained traction among criminal organisations due to its advanced security features. Users could purchase the solution without any personal information. The solution used three encryption standards and offered the option to send a message followed by a specific code that results in self-destruction of all messages on the target phone. This allowed criminal networks to communicate securely, evade detection, counter forensic measures, and coordinate their illegal operations across borders.

Worldwide, several thousands of individuals used the tool, which has its own infrastructure and applications with a network of resellers based in several countries. On a global scale, around a thousand messages are being exchanged each day via Ghost.

In Ireland, An Garda Síochána's National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau has been coordinating investigations related to the Ghost ECC platform with regard to four (4) identified OCG’s and support networks based and operating in the Dublin and Eastern Region, involved in drug trafficking and money laundering on a significant scale and activities facilitating and enhancing the capabilities of OCG’s.

On Monday 16th September 2024, as part of this International investigation, a coordinated International Law Enforcement day of action was carried out.

In Ireland, An Garda Síochána searched 27 premises across counties in the Dublin and Eastern Regions.

Over 300 Gardaí were deployed on searches, on the evening of the 16th September 2024, led by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau and involving Gardaí from Organised and Serious Crime (Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Garda National Economic Crime Bureau) The Criminal Assets Bureau, Strategic Tactical Operational Command (Emergency Response Unit and Regional Armed Supports Units), Garda Headquarters (National Surveillance Unit, National Criminal Intelligence Unit), National Support Services (Garda Dog Unit, Garda Air Support Unit) and Divisional Resources from the Dublin and Eastern Region and National Public Order Unit.

Representatives from Europol, Australian Federal Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation were also in Ireland in support of the ongoing operation.

During these searches investigating Gardaí seized:
•€300,000 in cash
•2 crypto currency keys (contents under investigation)
•42 suspected Ghost ECC encrypted devices
•126 other mobile devices
•27 laptops
•200 plus SIM cards
•6 Rolex Watches
•1 x 2021 Range Rover Jeep

In addition, on Monday 16th September officers attached to the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau intercepted an articulated truck in the South East of the Country. Following a search of the truck Gardaí recovered 100 kilos of cocaine in a deep concealment.

The cocaine is valued in Ireland at €7,000,000 (subject to analysis by FSI).

Five (5) males have been arrested (aged in the 30s, 40s and 50s) and detained at Garda Stations in the Dublin and Eastern Region. Four (4) have been detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1997 as amended and one (1) is detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007.

Previous Garda activity, directly related to this investigation into Ghost ECC involved:
•6 premises searches
•6 persons arrested
•118 Kilos of Cocaine valued in Ireland at €8,260,000
•1.5 Kilos Heroin valued in Ireland at €100,000
•16 Kilos of Cannabis valued in Ireland at €320,000
•€50,000 in cash seized

Garda Investigations remain ongoing at this time.

Speaking at Europol Headquarters, The Hague, Assistant Commissioner Justin Kelly, Organised and Serious Crime said:

"An Garda Síochána's involvement in this Europol Operational Task Force demonstrates Ireland's ongoing commitment and capacity to operate at an international level targeting Transnational Organised Crime Groups which cause so much harm and misery not just in Ireland but in countries across the world. Transnational Organised Crime Group networks know no boundaries and do not respect any international borders or rules of law. It takes a network to defeat a network and today's announcement is clear indication of the power of Law Enforcement networks in degrading and dismantling the activities of these criminal networks.”

Councillor Dempsey confirms Government commitment to Navan Hospital

Tuesday 17th September 2024, 17:40pm

Cllr Aisling Dempsey, who is contesting for Fianna Fáil in the next General Election, has confirmed with colleague, Minister Donnelly, that he isfully committed to Navan hospital’s future and continuing investment in its services.

Councillor Dempsey, who spoke with concerned Navan residents this week, said,

“Minister Donnelly has confirmed to me that Navan Hospital is in line for 15 new beds under the new Acute Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan. Recent speculation that the Emergency Department at Navan Hospital is to close, is the usual political scaremongering that we see every election. This sort of electioneering is irresponsible and unfair to the staff in the hospital, patients and people in county Meath.

From 2019 to 2023, the budget of the hospital has increased 29% and staffing levels have increased by 26% in the same time-period.This shows clearly that there is a continuous commitment to improvingand enhancing the services at Navan for the people of Meath.”

Cllr Dempsey made the comments after meeting with Navan residents concerned about the future of the hospital. Councillor Dempsey also highlighted the need for more GPs in the county with Minister Donnelly, which was an issue raised with her during the recent local election campaign. She welcomed the fact that Minister Donnelly is addressing the gap in GP services.

Councillor Dempsey said:

“There are several measures being taken to increase the number of GPs working in the State and to increase GP access here in Meath.

The number of people entering GP training has more than doubled from 120 in 2009 to 286 in 2023, and 350 new entrant training places are planned for this year – thanks to funding allocated by Minister Donnelly. The reality is that county Meath has seen such significant population growth that we constantly need to increase, evolve and enhance our infrastructure in health, but also our road network, housing levels, water infrastructure to meet these demands. Spreading rumours about Navan hospital solves nothing and serves nobody".

LMFM presenter Michael Reade reveals Cancer diagnosis

Tuesday 17^th September 2024,

LMFM presenter Michael Reade has revealed that he has been diagnosed  with terminal Cancer. The LMFM radio presenter who has his own show “The Michael Reade Show” had been out of work for a number of weeks.

He made the shock announcement on his social Media account. He said:

“I announced on LMFM this morning that I am not well, I wanted to tell everyone myself. This is what I said...”

“Regular listeners to the station will probably know that I have not been at work in over a month, about 6 weeks now. I know some people listening would like to know why.”

“Well, I am not known to stand on ceremony so, I will cut to the chase.”

“I am not well. I am actually very sick.”

“I have cancer.”

“And I am afraid to say that my diagnosis is terminal. It is an illness in other words that I will not be able to recover from.”

“Sounds awful, I know, but you know, I’m oddly okay with it. I have reconciled myself with the situation that I find myself in.”

“I have accepted what I am facing in to. I know what it means.”

“- I am not afraid.”

“I am not devasted. I wish it wasn’t so, but it is - and this is not open to negotiation. It is not an argument I can win. In fact, there just isn’t any argument to be had.”

“I understood this more or less the moment I was told that I am dying.”

“You know I thought, I could spend a lot of time being devastated and that, I’m sure, would be understandable to some degree but I thought, I just don’t have enough time left to do that."

“The time that I do have left will be precious and, do I want to use any of it being sad and looking on this as negative?”

“Then I thought, I can choose to do that but I do have other choices. I can choose to be devastated or I could just as easily choose that instead of being devastated; to choose, whatever time life will yet offer me, to embrace life. Positively. Finding good, nice, positive things to focus on.”

“And there are so many positives my life will offer me yet. It’s true to say that any ambitions I might have had, have had to change in recent weeks and I am now fairly limited in what I can physically do, like, I won’t be able to tick things off my bucket list so I’ve just downgraded my bucket list, if I can put it that way. “

“Or have I? Have I even done that?”

“I prefer to think, I have a different bucket list now than the one I had a few weeks ago. Different - rather than saying it has been downgraded.”

“The situation I am in now is actually a blessing of sorts as now, I am looking at things that might otherwise have passed me by and I am getting so much pleasure from some very basic, simple things. A smiling face or a kind word, a ray of sunshine, breathing fresh air.”

“You won’t be surprised to hear how much I’m enjoying just being able to listen to and watch the majestic seagulls around me.”

“But being home with the people I love and knowing they love me, is priceless. There is nothing more important to me. Living through, experiencing, what I believe is just a great people-story, as all of my family and friends rally about me. Everyone is parking their sadness and doing what I have asked them to do. That is; to know I am okay with this and that I just want to surround myself now in love and positive vibrations.”

“So, there is no sadness around me. All of us are trying to be strong. Trying to be positive and trying to help each other through this - best we can.”

“I am not sure when I will get the chance to speak to you again but I do hope to be able to speak to you again soon.”

“Right now, though, I have to step back from everything else.”

“I will need some space, personal space, personal time, time with my family and the people I love and I hope you will understand that and that you will allow me that space please.”

“My first broadcast was 43 years ago. I was just 15 years of age. I am very proud to say that since then I have more or less had a radio programme of my own. I have spent 21 years here in LMFM and while I am prouder than I can say about my programme here, it has honestly been a privilege. A privilege that you listening have given me.”

“Thank you for now for that privilege, with my best wishes and of course lots of love and positive vibrations.”

“This is Michael Reade… I’ll hand back to studio now. Thank you.”

Line firmly drawn in the sand regarding cars on Bettystown beach

Monday 16^th September 2024, 14:30pm

The date 16^th August 2024 might not resonate with you, but it is exactly one month since we took a visit out to Bettystown beach in Co. Meath.

That Friday in August, the sun wasn’t splitting the stones, but this reporter noticed how quite the town and beach was. It was the peak of the summer. One could argue that it would be the busiest time of the year for a seaside town, but it felt more like a ghost town.

Growing up as a kid in Co. Meath, Bettystown was our nearest beach. My memories of the seaside town were always good. The beach was always busy and there was always hustle and bustle around the town. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case.

Over the years one of the big attractions for Bettystown was Funtasia. Funtasia is now closed with a Casino in its place. 

 For anyone who isn’t aware, in November 2021, A permanent ban on parking on Bettystown Beach was voted through by some councillors  at an Meath County Council meeting. That ban is still in place to this day, while there are a small number of Age Friendly and Blue Badge (Disabled) spaces on the beach at Bettystown, which are co-ordinated by the Beach Wardens.

So, that day after visiting Bettyatown beach, we put the question out there. Should cars be allowed on the beach in Bettystown?

Well, the response was interesting to say the least. It was divided, some for parking on the beach and some against parking on the beach.

It’s a catch 22 situation with pros and cons on both sides of the argument.

Let’s get into the argument for no parking on the beach. That Friday there was no cars racing up and down the beach. As a family we felt safe regarding no vehicles being close to us, so the kids could play freely.

You must add in the environmental factor as well. You are cutting down on pollution with less cars on the beach. The beach itself was also quite clean and no sign of any rubbish or debris. No cars on the beach means there no chance of any cars being submerged by the incoming tide.

The pros of parking of the beach, look it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but more cars being allowed could ultimately bring in more revenue and more footfall for local businesses.

Especially for families who can’t find nearby parking and who for those who have walking difficulties. People from far and wide are more likely to visit Bettystown if there was more beach parking made available.

 Laytown-Bettystown Councillor Carol Lennon gave us her thoughts about the situation in Bettystown.

She said,:  “What astounded me was that at the Municipal District Meeting in Duleek on September 5th Cllr Tolan stated that "Business in Laytown and Bettystown is booming, in fact the only business not doing well is Pats Centra Bettystown and that's because its closed."

Carol orgainsed a public meeting last Monday 9^th September for all the local businesses impacted by the reduced footfall in the Bettystown and Laytown area.

She concluded by saying:

“We had representatives from 8 local businesses representing 85 employees and the average loss of business is 30%.

Nobody wants to see a return to 100s of cars on the sand but to save the economy in Bettystown we need to bring the beachgoers back”.

With the summer now over, one would hope a resolution could be found for next year to help struggling businesses the Bettystown-Laytown area.

The option to allocate a bigger section of the beach for cars could improve things in the seaside town, but we will just have to wait and see how it plays out.

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Picture: Sinn Féin

Time is needed for Dundalk FC problems to be sorted - Ruairí Ó Murchú TD

Monday 16th September 2024, 11.30 am

Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has asked that further time be given to Dundalk FC for its serious financial difficulties to be sorted out.

There are fears that Brian Ainscough could put the club into liquidation at 5pm today if no investors are found.

In an interview on LMFM Radio this morning, the Louth TD said his first thoughts are with all those involved in the club – the players, staff and supporters.

He said: ‘You cannot put into words what Dundalk FC means to Dundalk town and its hinterland’.

He referred to financial difficulties experiences by Cork in 2011 and following conversations he has had with the FAI and a number of other stakeholders, the situation is that Dundalk FC is currently applying for a licence to play in the League of Ireland next year.

He said: ‘If the club was to go into liquidation, there is no facility to apply for a licence.

‘Monaghan United, when they went out of play, the PFAIwould not allow an entity to recreate itself in Monaghan if players were not paid, so the same circumstances would arise, so that's how serious this is’.

He said Mr Ainscough needs to give more time for investors to look at the club. Deputy Ó Murchú said he had been speaking to a possible investor who had indicated more time was needed.

Deputy Ó Murchú also raised the SCARP (Small Company Administrative Rescue Process) which, he said, ‘takes a considerable amount of money to put it in’.

He said: ‘There is talk in the public domain talk of €360,000 and I have spoken to people who say that money may be somewhat more. Anyone who is sway with any of these investors that they need to pull on the heart strings the connection with Dundalk now.

‘That would probably involve the number of people who have money, local business people and those with connectivity with Dundalk and beyond to ensure there would be enough money put in place to allow Dundalk FC to enter into this process and to ensure that we have a team that can play at Oriel Park next year.

‘Entering into examinership means entering into 49 days which protects the entity and during that period you need to go through absolutely everything.

‘With regards to the legacy issues and mistakes that have been made which all in the public domain, we can all blamemultiple people at this stage, but none of that serves any purpose at this point in time - we can deal with all that after.

‘The only thing that matters is ensuring that Dundalk FC survives. It has one of the finest legacies of any team in the League of Ireland. We all know that this will impact in relation to the results, if the worst was to happen, of the league this year and it also draws into question the entire integrity and the ability of the league altogether.

‘Dundalk is too big to fail. We need to make sure that doesn’t happen, so we need Brian Ainscough to give enough time and to allow a proper rescue package to be put in place.

‘I believe it is possible. It is very difficult but it is possible to put something together, what we need is an amount of time to be given and then we need to make sure that everybody who is willing to put their money where their mouth is steps up for Dundalk and that we have its sustainable management team and a process and a system that can work into the future’

Pic : Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin launch 10 Priorities for the Performing Arts – Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD

Satyrday 14th September 2024, 13:23 pm
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Gaeilge, Gaeltacht, Arts, Culture, Tourism and Media, Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, has today launched Taibhiú – Sinn Féin’s 10 Priorities for the Performing Arts.

This builds on the 10 overarching priorities for supporting Irish artists and arts which Sinn Féin published earlier this week following a vibrant Dáil Ealaíon Arts Assembly at which more than 100 representatives from across the arts discussed what is needed for the sector to thrive.

Teachta Ó Snodaigh said:

“Sinn Féin is committed to support the arts. Today we are launching our 10 priorities for the performing arts, which forms part of our comprehensive policy work and follows extensive engagement with the sector. The performing arts encompass a wide range of artforms – music, theatre, dance, street art, circus, spectacle, comedy, musical theatre, and opera – each of which contribute in its own unique way to Ireland’s
culture, society and economy and face a series of distinct and common challenges.

“It was important when putting our comprehensive policy for the arts together that we recognised the distinct needs of those working across the field of performance, and demonstrated our commitment to addressing the issues they face.

“Our performing arts like music, theatre and dance require dedicated strategies, as well as more space to thrive, both in terms of greater protections for existing venues which host culture and capital investment in new spaces and studios.

“We would also work towards having more Irish music on radio and in film, and exploring tax relief options which could usher in a renaissance in Irish theatre.

“We are committed to tackling financial barriers like rip-off ticket prices and prohibitive insurance costs, and to protecting the copyright of performers and creators from exploitation and artificial intelligence.

“The existing ways in which cultural institutions support the performing arts needs to be revisited to ensure that benefits artists and audiences nationwide, and those artforms currently excluded from funding and support their peers benefit from – such as comedy and musical theatre – need to be recognised.

“I invite performing artists, art workers and audiences to read the detail of our proposed approach and let us know what they think. We will soon publish other policies focused at other art sectors, as part of Sinn Féin's comprehensive work on these issues.

"Sinn Féin is committed to delivering on these issues and standing up for the arts.”

Gardaí warn about misinformation following public Order Incident at Blakestown Road, Dublin 15 – 12th September 2024

Friday 13th September 2024, 20:11pm

Following a report, Gardaí responded to a public order incident that occurred on Blakestown Road, Dublin 15 at approximately 1:45pm on Thursday, 12th of September 2024.

As part of its investigation into this incident, An Garda Síochána has sought the advice of the Director of the Garda Youth Diversion Programme.

Local Gardaí are also liaising with the management of a secondary school in the area in relation to this incident.

All those involved in this incident are school students and Irish nationals. The incident is contained within the school and did not involve an adult male.

An Garda Síochána is very conscious of the volume of misinformation and fake news in circulation regarding this incident- particularly on social media and direct messaging platforms.

An Garda Síochána appeal to all members of the public and the media to independently verify any information published on social media and/or messaging apps.

Under Section 7 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, An Garda Síochána is the sole agency invested with the statutory role of preserving peace and public order. It is also An Garda Síochána's statutory role to investigate crime and enforce enacted legislation.

An Garda Síochána urge anyone with information relating to any crime to immediately report it for it to be thoroughly investigated by Gardaí.

In emergency, immediate danger and or when Garda assistance is required, members of the public should always call 999/112.

High Volumes of Traffic on Dunderry to Navan Road Cause for Concern – Tóibín

Friday 13th September, 09:22 am

Aontú leader and Meath West TD, Deputy Peadar Tóibín, has said that dangerous and high volumes of traffic on the Dunderry Road to Navan has been brought to his attention by residents and motorists in the area.

Tóibín stated “It has been reported to be by concerned motorists in the area that since the Navan to Trim Road was repaired and closed, there seems to be a high volume of HGVs still using this small country road.

I was sent dashcam video footage of traffic including HGVs travelling at a crawl having to slow down to allow traffic coming in the opposite direction to try to squeeze past without hitting off each other. One motorist informed me they had a wing mirror broken off their new car when caught up in this situation.

Tóibín continued “Residents and motorists have told me there is an accident waiting to happen with the volume of traffic and trucks. Parents dropping their children to Dunderry National School are placed in an ever increasing dangerous situation as a result of this traffic situation which has developed”.

“I have written to Meath County Council Transportation Roads Section to have the situation examined urgently to come up with solutions to mitigate against the risk of an accident, and address the high volumes of traffic on this stretch of road”. Tóibín concluded.

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Gardaí issue appeal for missing 15-year-old from Dublin 1

Thursday 12th September 2024, 15:55 pm

Gardaí are appealing to the public for assistance in locating 15-year-old Christopher Maguire, who was reported missing from Seville Place, Dublin 1 on Sunday, 8th September 2024.

Christopher is approximately 5’ 5" in height, with a medium build, brown hair, and hazel eyes. When last seen, Christopher was wearing a black tracksuit.

He is known to frequent Drogheda and Dublin City centre.

Anyone with information on Christopher’s whereabouts is asked to contact Store Street Garda Station at 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

"ELECT A REAL OPPOSITION POLITICIAN" - Tóibín

Thursday 12th September 2024, 09:10 am

Ahead of the General Election, Voters in Meath have a stark choice of voting for people who will continue to provide the only consistent opposition to Government policies that are “not in the best interests of the public”.

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín who has been selected to run in Meath East.

Cllr. Tóibín, who was once again elected on the first count in June’s Local Elections says she is honoured to have been selected for her party, which she describes as the “only real opposition in this country”.

She says

“Aontú is a relatively new party but one that is holding a mirror up to this government and the so-called opposition parties. A bad government is being enabled by a bad opposition and it is simply not fair on the people of this country”.

“We currently have a Government that is reckless with the public purse ,the most recent evidence of which is the hundreds of thousands spent on a Bicycle Shed and places little importance on accountability”.

“People deserve an opposition who demand accountability, not one who rows in behind a government as we saw in the Family and Care Referenda and the Contentious Hate Speech Bill”. That is not opposition”

“We reel from one crisis to another; nobody faces sanction and there is no deterrence to incompetence. This Government has greatly undermined the pillars of our democracy, decimated accountability and wasted billions. The electorate, in the main, feel totally disconnected, unheard and unimportant”.

“Our country is rolling in money, but we have the highest record of homelessness in history, we have a Gov that tried to deprive the people of €13 Billion in tax from Apple. That money would have built 32,500 homes. It is astounding and begs the question, just who this Government is working for”.

“Meath, the home of the Minister for Justice has the lowest ratio of gardai in the country, we have had a Minister for Health who wanted to close down the Emergency Department of Navan Hospital, and we have a Minister for Transport who is presiding over a public transport service that frankly is not fit for purpose”.

We have boarded up houses that if in the hands of private developers would be ready to rehome people in just three weeks, yet it takes our local authority up to 8 months”

“We had the shocking €26 million ‘vanity project’ for the new council chambers at Buvinda House in Navan, aconstruction that is completely and utterly unnecessary”.

“It is a phenomenal amount of money and badly needed homes could be built for this. I estimate it could have built up to 74 new homes. That’s 74 families, human beings crying out for a roof over their heads. I simply can’t get my head around this at all.”

“Meath also badly needs a homeless hostel to provide help and hope to people living on the streets, and I genuinely think it is unconscionable to squander this sort of money on a new council chamber.”

“The current council chamber is gorgeous. Yes, admittedly it is ‘cosy’, but it is warm and welcoming and could have easily been upgraded for a fraction of what is now to be spent on this brand-new build”.

“This hugely expensive new council chamber will beused once a month; it is crazy”.

“Meath County Council has never been asked to account for this and I cannot see how it can stand over this when we have the worst housing crisis in the history of the state”.

“We have commuters in Meath East missing health care appointments, job interviews, flights because of the gross unreliability of our public buses”.

“The lack of accountability is one that is coming up time and time again on the doors

I want to restore people's faith in politics, democracy and in politicians”.

“I got into politics to improve the living and working conditions of people in Navan and Meath and I am ready for an election and so are the public. In fact they’re crying out for one”.

COUNTY MEATH STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TOSIGN-UP FOR IRELAND’S TOP TEEN ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME

Wedneseday 11th September, 15:10 pm

Second level schools across Meath are being encouraged to sign-up for this year’s Student Enterprise Programme (SEP) which will see over 28,000 students nationally set-up and run a mini enterprise over the course of the academic year.

The Student Enterprise Programme has been a staple on the secondary school calendar in Meath for over 20 years with many students continuing their entrepreneurial journey long after they leave school, making their mark on the business world.

County Meath has had success over the years, most recently with Seán Finnegan of St Patrick’s Classical School, Navan with his winning submission in the Senior Category with his entry “High Lift”.

Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive, Meath County Council said of the programme “Meath Students have had wonderful success in their participation of the student enterprise programme. With over 1400 students from 16 local schools taking part last year. What our students take from the programme is that with the right supports and encouragement, they can take an idea from the classroom and develop it into a real-life business. The skills they learn along the way, such as business planning, market research, selling and team-work, will equip them with valuable skills to use throughout their future careers. We look forward to supporting participants in this years programme.”

An initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, the Student Enterprise Programme is the country’s largest enterprise programme for second level students, with this year marking the 23rd year of the hugely successful programme. It has had over 400,000 participants since its inception. It’s expected that almost 28,000 students from approximately 500 second level schools across the country will take part this year.

Students from 1styear to 6thyear can enter in the Junior, Intermediate and Senior categories. Participants will learn how to create and run their own business, picking up key skills along the way such as ideation, marketing, finance and sales.

The Programme is run through the network of Local Enterprise Offices, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, with local coordinators in every area to support teachers and students through the year of the programme, which helps foster entrepreneurship in students and gives them key skills they can bring with them into later life.

Enterprise teacher Gareth Mc Mahon from St. Patrick’s Classical School in Navan, whose student Seán Finnegan took top place in the senior category at the 2024 National Student Enterprise Final says taking part in the SEP is a great way for schools to give their students the opportunity to put the theory of business into practice in real life situations.

He says the benefits for schools taking part are immense - “The Student Enterprise Programme brings the business book to life and unlocks the creativity, talent and entrepreneurship within our students. The benefits to the school are also immense including local and national PR opportunities and in-school guest speakers throughout the year. I would highly recommend other teachers to get involved”.

Seán Finnegan, through his business Finnegan Fabrication High Lift, designed and manufactured a highly innovative portable crane that can be fitted to the interior of commercial vans to help workers lift heavy materials in and out of the vehicle.

The Intermediate Award went to Esker Timber Creations from Presentation College Athenry in Galway. The business, set up by student Cormac Monaghan, manufactures unique wooden products from repurposed pallet wood.

In the Junior category the award went to Carry Camán. The business, set up by Marguerite Herlihy, Seána Walsh, Clodagh Buckley and Lucy Matassa from Presentation Secondary School Castleisland in Kerry, is a high-visability hurley and sliotar holder. It enables users to easily carry their hurling equipment and is also highly visible for those who may walk or cycle to training and matches.

Since the Student Enterprise Programme began in 2003, over 400,000 students have taken part, learning key skills on how to create a business idea, start a business and grow a business.

The Student Enterprise Programme also has a new range of online resources for 2024/2025 atwww.StudentEnterprise.ie, which will feature regular blogs and houses a full range of Student Enterprise resources for students and teachers. 

Reinstating Town Councils: A Strategic Use of Apple’s Tax Settlement to Revitalise Local Governance

Wednesday 11th September 2024, 09:00 am

In light of the recent European Court of Justice ruling that has compelled Apple to pay €13.1 billion in, a strategic reinvestment of these funds presents a valuable opportunity to address long-standing issues in the local government system.

The court decision, affirming the European Commission's findings of significant tax underpayment by Apple, suggests a way to revitalise local governance. A portion of this substantial financial adjustment should be allocated to reintroduce town councils in all towns with populations exceeding 5,000.

Reestablishing town councils would offer five key benefits:

1. Localised Decision-Making: Empowering local councils to make decisions tailored to community needs ensures more relevant and effective governance.

2. Increased Civic Engagement: By enhancing local representation, town councils can boost public participation and restore confidence in the democratic process.

3. Economic Revitalisation: Town councils can better support local businesses and economic initiatives, leading to vibrant and thriving town centres.

4. Enhanced Accountability: Smaller governing bodies foster greater transparency and accountability, which can rebuild public trust in governmental institutions.

5. Community Identity: Reinstating town councils would support the preservation of local heritage and foster community pride and cohesion.

International precedents highlight the success of localised governance in managing towns and cities with increased efficiency and responsiveness. Investing a portion of Apple's tax settlement into re-establishing town councils can address deficiencies in the local government system and provide substantial benefits to communities.

This proposal represents a significant step towards improving local governance and community empowerment. The initiative has the potential to transform the local governance landscape and offer considerable benefits to towns across the state.

To mark World Suicide Prevention Day the HSE has launched a free, online, suicide prevention programme called ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’

The HSE is marking international World Suicide Prevention Day (on Tuesday, 10 September) by highlighting actions that can help us to start a conversation, spread a message of hope and save more lives from suicide in Ireland. 

The global call to action for World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 is to ‘Change the Narrative’ and #StartTheConversation. The aim is to inspire individuals, communities, organisations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of understanding and support. 

Bernard Gloster, HSE CEO, said:

“Preventing suicide is everyone's business, and on World Suicide Prevention Day, we are reminded we all have a role to play in creating more compassionate communities. The HSE maintains a steadfast high-level commitment to promote our population’s mental health and reduce suicide, as outlined in our National Service Plan and Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide.  We are proud to work collaboratively across so many different sectors, so we can create a more supportive and compassionate society where suicide is preventable, and everyone feels valued and understood.”

On World Suicide Prevention Day, the HSE is asking people to enroll in and take part in ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’ - a free online suicide prevention training programme that takes just 60 minutes to complete. This programme is for everyone, especially people who are supporting a loved one or those involved in their local communities. It helps participants to identify people who might be at risk of suicide, confidently ask about suicide, keep them safe, and connect them with resources that can help.  

John Meehan, HSE Assistant National Director and Head of the National Office for Suicide Prevention, said:

“We hope that on World Suicide Prevention Day, and every day, people can build their confidence and knowledge to talk safely and sensitively about suicide. We ask people share ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’ with their friends, families and in workplaces and communities. At any time in our personal or professional lives, any one of us might encounter a person who is in distress, or who needs a listening ear. It is important we all feel prepared for such conversations whenever they arise, be able to recognise the signs that a person is struggling, and feel confident in asking about suicide, when we need to.” 

‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’ is one suicide prevention training programme available from the HSE. A range of different programmes is available across communities nationwide, as part of the HSE’s collective efforts to implement ‘Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide’.

Free, online, suicide prevention programme:

https://traininghub.nosp.ie/

Support Services helplines are listed below:

Samaritans

Samaritans services are available 24 hours a day, for confidential, non-judgmental support.

Freephone 116 123

Email jo@samaritans.ie

Visit www.samaritans.ie for more information

Pieta

Pieta provide a range of suicide and self-harm prevention services.

Freephone 1800 247 247 anytime day or night

Text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply)

Visit www.pieta.ie for more information

Text About It

Text About It is a free, anonymous, 24/7 messaging service providing everything from a calming chat to immediate support for our mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Text HELLO to 50808, anytime day or night

Visit www.textaboutit.ie for more information

Childline

A free 24/7 support service for children and young people up to and including those age 18 years of age.

Freephone 1800 66 66 66

Live chat at www.childline.ie

Hospital and emergency services

If you, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, go to or call the emergency department of your local general hospital. You can also contact emergency services on 112 or 999 anytime, day or night.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth's Community Engagement Team statement in relation to Thornton Hall

Monday 9th September 2024, 16.30 pm

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth's Community Engagement Team have released the following statement in relation to Thornton Hall. It says the following:

Following our recent meeting with elected representatives, the following are
responses to your queries and suggested areas for further information or review.
We’d like to reiterate to all our partners that the design and development work at this
site is ongoing, and some topics on which we received questions are still in progress.
Topic which we are still to follow up on include:
• Noise disturbance due to flight path
• Water and wastewater provision
• Provision for recreational, worship and educational services
• Countries of origin – countries included in ‘other’ category

We will keep updating you as information is agreed and finalised.

Information about the site development
Ministerial Order and Screening Assessments
Screening assessments can be found on the Departments website at:
www.gov.ie/communityengagement
Ministerial Order is attached to email with this update.

Tender Process
Due to the increasing demand for suitable accommodation for International Protection applicants,
an accelerated tender process commenced in May 2024. Experienced providers known to the
department were invited to submit proposals for surge-style accommodation solutions for the site
at Thornton Hall. SIPA evaluated these with respect to service delivery and cost. IEMS were
awarded the contract in June 2024.

IEMS
Igo Café Ltd trading as Igo Emergency Management Services (IEMS) are a facilities management
company contracted by DCEDIY to manage the construction and operation of emergency
accommodation sites that come under the remit of State-Owned International Accommodation
(SIPA) team. IEMS is an experienced provider and currently manages several State-owned
emergency accommodation sites including Thornton Hall, which is currently under construction.
Site Security
IEMS security personnel have been present on site since the awarding of the contract. Security
will be scaled up accordingly when residents arrive on site.

Services

IEMS will be responsible for providing high-performance tents, catering facilities and services,
cleaning services, general maintenance, refuse disposal services, laundry appliances, and
transport.

Planning/regulatory framework
An experienced Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) services company has been procured
to oversee the design of the site and this work is currently underway.
Appropriate Assessment (AA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) screening has been
carried out. Reports attached with this information note.

An archaeological impact assessment is due to take place on site as a result of recommendations
from recent environmental surveys. This is a part of mitigations being implemented to protect any
possible archaeological features on site. D/CEDIY still intends to accommodate an initial 40
residents on site at Thornton Hall in September. The areas being used for this first accommodation
will not be part of the archaeological impact assessment and are suitable to develop. The
Department is adhering to all advice and appropriate mitigations regarding archaeology on site.

Capacity
Residents will arrive on site on a phased basis, with an initial group of approximately 40 residents
in the short term. It is planned that this number will be increased to 440 within a few months and,
following that, a further 600 residents will bring the site to its total planned capacity of 1000. The
Department is developing timelines with respect to the above.

Perimeter Fencing
On 14th and 15th of August, perimeter works were completed successfully by IEMS in conjunction
with DCEDIY, An Garda Síochána, Fingal Co. Council, and the Irish Prison Service. The work
involved installing new gates and construction hoarding at the two main access points to the site.
The purpose of the perimeter works was to provide safe site access routes for all authorised
parties and to ensure that construction work can proceed safely in due course. This work was
deemed essential due to recurring security breaches and criminal activity which have hindered
the development.

Further site hoarding is planned to ensure site safety, and to protect the privacy of incoming
residents.

Transport
This is noted as one of the most important points of feedback and queries from local reps to
the Department at this time.
Developing a transport plan and solution is an essential element of the overall development
and will be a priority for the Department. This will part of the design and project planning
process over the coming weeks and will be done in partnership with the provider and with
public and/or private transport providers.
Final plans have to be agreed and reviewed, but providing transport for residents from the
tented area, to the site entrance and to agreed points beyond that will be a priority action.

Department of Social Protection Payments
The Department is engaging with the Department of Social Protection to determine the best
approach for residents to collect their weekly allowances.

Health and Wellbeing of centre residents
Health services
The Migrant Health supports in HSE Dublin & North East Swords Area Network include: a
migrant health team, catch-up immunisations, GP sessional clinics, psychosocial supports and a
central governance function.

The healthcare provision at Thornton Hall is planned to include:
• Sessional GP Clinics: Located in the Dublin 1 includes urgent GP prescriptions and
onward referrals to appropriate services. Transport to appointments if necessary is also
provided. This service operates afternoons Monday to Friday.
• Access to interpreting services for all medical appointments is provided as required.
• Migrant Health Team outreach workers support the application process for medical cards
for patients: The team visits sites and supports residents in the completion of application
forms and liaises with HSE teams throughout the application process. The outreach team
aims to secure a named GP and medical card for newly arrived migrants as soon as
possible in order to enable integration with existing primary care and acute services as
required.
• Migrant Health Vaccination teams offer vaccination catch up programmes to all newly
arrived migrants.
• BBV Screening to be offered to all residents inclusive of transport to and from Balseskin
(hosting facility)
• GP and access to Out of Hours GP service is provided.
Wellbeing

The Department’s International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) works closely with the
HSE. People applying for international protection access health services through mainstream
services: primary care, GP and emergency services. IPAS will advise their HSE liaison in
advance of residents being accommodated.

While accommodated at the accommodation centre, residents will receive the same supports as
at other IPAS locations. This includes access to medical care via the HSE social inclusion
outreach teams and medical card provision; IPAS customer services team clinics; onsite support
from the provider’s staff; and psycho-social and integration support from NGO partners.
Resident Welfare Team

IPAS has a dedicated Resident Welfare Team comprising subject matter experts seconded to
the team on a full time basis, as well as a number of support officers, who direct applicants with
special reception needs within our accommodation, to relevant services or provide other
appropriate information, as required. These include Social Workers and personnel from the
National Social Inclusion Office at the HSE, Educational Welfare Officers (EWOs) from the Tusla
Education Support Services (TESS).

Where appropriate, the Resident Welfare Team engages with the centre managers and NGOs
on-site to ensure that an applicant’s reception needs can be addressed within their current

accommodation centre, providing information and support and signposting persons to relevant
services. IPAS Social Workers seconded to the Resident Welfare Team are available to help
applicants with high levels of vulnerability, and can make onward referrals to services and
advocate for vulnerable persons as appropriate.

Resident Clinics
The IPAS Customer Service Team aims to conduct resident clinics at all accommodation
centres. The primary objective of these clinics is to make IPAS staff available to residents to
discuss issues on a one to one basis, without their personal details being provided to centre
management unless required and with their permission. Any issues raised as part of these visits
are followed up with the centre management and/or other relevant IPAS teams with a view to
prompt resolution. Resident clinics also provide IPAS officials with an opportunity to review and
examine centres and their general operation and pass any findings on for follow up through the
formal inspection process.

Due to limited resources, clinics are generally organised based on trends within correspondence
to IPAS via IPAS Helpdesk tickets, such as an unusually high volume of issues being reported
from a particular centre. Clinics are also conducted often at newer centres to identify any
potential issues and areas that can be immediately improved in as short a timeframe as possible.
IPAS also uses clinics and Helpdesk statistics to identify where there are centres with additional
needs and/or a lack of structured support. The IPAS Customer Service Team works with a
number of NGOs to provide such support across IPAS centres. NGOs provide as-needed
support such as assisting with PPS numbers, medical cards, English classes, accessing
education etc.

The Customer Service Team has developed an induction leaflet with information about IPAS and
commonly asked questions which is distributed to residents at clinics and will be made available
on-line.

Residents are provided with the email address for the IPAS Helpdesk in the IPAS House Rules
and on-line where any queries can be addressed such as complaints (where unresolved at local
level), requests for support for vulnerabilities, proof of address for opening bank accounts etc.
Education and Activities
The Department will be liaising with services including the Educational Training Board and similar
state agencies to progress plans for education, training and activity supports at the site.
Integration
The Community Engagement Team are engaging with both Fingal and Meath County Councils
on the use of this site. The Team attended a meeting of Fingal Community Integration Forum on
28 August and Meath Community Integration Team on 4 September.
Local Authority Integration Team

The primary role of the Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT) is to provide ongoing integration
supports to people seeking international protection, Programme Refugees and Beneficiaries of
Temporary Protection (BOTP) to enable them to live independently in the community. This will
involve linking these cohorts with local service providers appropriate to their needs. The LAITs
will also act as the direct point of contact, providing information, guidance and advice, answering
queries as they arise and ensuring that individuals are in receipt of applicable benefits and
entitlements.

About Ireland's International Protection Process
Since 2022, there has been an increase in people seeking international protection in Ireland from
other countries. The same trend is being seen across Europe and globally, and numbers also
increased since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. About 6% of all migration into Ireland in 2023
related to international protection applicants.

International Protection is the protection granted by a government to someone who has left
another country to escape being harmed. People can apply for international protection if they
have come to Ireland to escape persecution in their own country. They can also apply if they
cannot return to their country because of a well-founded fear for their safety.

What rights do people have after applying for protection?
No country can return people while they wait for decisions on their applications. This is a long
established part of Irish and international law. While here, people must be provided with basic
supports: somewhere to stay, education for children and the right to work after 6 months. People
are also entitled to an allowance of €38.80 per week for an adult and €29.80 per week for a child.

What kind of centres do people live in?
People live in a range of centres including repurposed office blocks, tented facilities, warehouses
and former hotels. At the moment, there is an extreme shortage of accommodation across the
country, which our Department is working hard to address, in partnership with wider Government
and State agencies.

How long does it take to process applications?
As of May 2024, it can take around 18 months for applications to be processed. This consists of
1 application to the International Protection Office (IPO) and, if unsuccessful, 1 appeal to the
International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT). In total, 98% of applicants have been in the
system less than 2 years and 70% less than 1 year.

Identity
The establishment of a person’s identity and nationality is an important feature of the immigration
process in general.
When it comes to international protection applicants, each person that enters the process is
fingerprinted and photographed. These fingerprints are checked against EURODAC, an EU
immigration database which stores the fingerprints of asylum applicants and those who have
crossed borders illegally.
Character and conduct checks are also carried out with An Garda Síochána at the point where
consideration is being given to granting an applicant refugee status or other permission to remain
in the State.

In addition to checks specifically on those applying for international protection, each and every
person arriving at a port of entry in the State is subject to Schengen Information System (SIS)
check, which checks for example whether a person is wanted by an EU Member State for
criminal purposes.

Any and all criminal convictions are considered when processing an international protection
application. An Garda Síochána notify the Department of Justice of any matters which may be
relevant to consideration of an application for international protection.
International Protection Office

The Minister for Justice has doubled the number of staff, with a corresponding trebling of the
number of decisions in the International Protection Office; and further increases are planned.
Since the introduction of accelerated processing in November 2022, there has been a

corresponding decrease of more than 50% in the number of applications from the designated
countries.

Community Funding Streams
The Communities Integration Fund (CIF) has been in place since 2017. Annually, grant
funding of €1,000 to €5,000 is made available for local integration initiatives. Since its inception,
the CIF has supported over 820 projects, with grant funding totalling €3.82 million.
The International Protection Integration Fund (IPIF) is intended to support communities
across Ireland so that they can play a greater role in promoting the integration of International
Protection applicants. Since its inception in 2022, the IPIF has supported 137 projects with grant
funding totalling €2.8m.

The Ireland Against Racism Fund (IARF) was launched in May 2023. In its first year, the fund
made €1.3 million available to applicant groups operating at national, regional and local level.
IARF has the overall objective of providing funding for projects and initiatives that aim to combat
racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion. In 2023 a combined total of 24
national & regional projects were successful.

A Local Integration Model has been developed in collaboration with the Department of
Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH), the County and City Management Authority
(CCMA) and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA). The model centres on a new
national network of Local Authority Integration Teams (LAITs) to be located in each local
authority, to better help International Protection applicants and refugees engage with existing
local services.

Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) funding streams:
In recognition of the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people
coming to Ireland, the Government established the Community Recognition Fund. Under the
Community Recognition Fund, Fingal County Council received €1,538,573 and Meath County
Council received €1,188,066.

In 2023, €50 million was approved through the fund for 900 projects, providing support to cities,
towns and villages across Ireland. In July an additional €1m in funding has been secured for
delivery of SICAP supports to New Arrivals for the remainder of 2024.
The Department of Rural and Community Development will be engaging with SICAP Programme
Implementers to ensure adequate funding distribution to support numbers of New Arrivals locally
across Ireland.

A further €50 million is being provided under the Community Recognition Fund 2024.
Additional funding of €10 million was secured in 2023 and again in 2024 for delivery of supports
to new arrivals and the recruitment of additional community support workers under the Social
Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP). SICAP is Ireland's primary social
inclusion intervention, it aims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality.
Over the past two and a half years, DRCD has provided funding of €2.5 million to volunteer
centres, who are providing a range of community integration initiatives.

15 July, Minister Joe O’Brien announced a new €3 million programme to support communities,
the Community Connection Project which will support the recruitment of up to 30 Community Link
Workers, employed by Local Development Companies, who will engage and work with local
communities across Ireland over an 18-month period with a view to helping communities respond
to the arrival of International Protection Applicants.

Community Centres Investment Fund: The Community Centres Investment Fund is the largest
ever capital investment in Community Centres. It provides funding for investments in Community
Centres in order that these vital services remain useable, accessible, and safe and continue to
meet the needs of the community into the future. This capital fund of €20 million will provide
funding for the improvement and refurbishment of existing community centres in both urban and
rural areas. In 2023 nearly €20 million was allocated for new build Community

Pic : Hector ó Heochagáin

Hector returns to Naaaaaavan!!

Saturday 7th September 2024, 9.00pm

One of Navans most renowned celebs made a return to the town over the weekend.

Hector Ó hEochagáin  best known for travel shows on TG4, visited The China Garden in Navan Co. Meath.

The China Garden in Navan is renowned for being one of the best Chinese Restaurants in Co. Meath, with patrons of the restaurant travelling from all over the Royal County to taste their delicious Chinese cuisine.

The TV and radio presenter took to Social Media to praise The China Garden. He said:

"Good to be back in the heart lands of the Royal County last night , lovely buzz around the town in the good weather … & the traditional ceremonial visit to the Best Chinese we have ever had in these parts was as usual superb , place full , atmosphere was great and top notch grub with that beautiful Hong Kong Style & Flavour to the Food as always , Over 40 years in business .! What would we do without the China Garden … Great to see you Michelle …. Slan go foill … X".

Flax Mill House, Another Example of Government Refusing to Engage With Communities.

Friday 6th September, 21:40pm

Responding to the news that Flax Mill House will house 70 asylum applicants, Aontú Leader and Meath West TD, Peadar Tóibín stated:

"Most people want to help those fleeing violence, war and famine. In fairness Ireland has done its fair share. According to the OECD, Ireland is seventh on the table of 34 countries across the developed world in terms of refugees per capita, with 17 refugees per 1,000 inhabitants".

"This Government has created chaos through its immigration policy. By refusing to engage with people the government have completely disrespected communities. Refusing to consult with communities has created a vacuum. In may parts of the country this vacuum has been filled by those intent on fermenting trouble".

"Flax Mill is another example of this lack of consultation. The first time elected reps heard about this was on Tuesday and this was by way of an email of notification. No discussion, no engagement was undertaken at all. I met with residents in the area today and they had heard nothing until this week also".

The Flax Mill location is supposed to be for families but there is nowhere for children to play except on the road. This is a lane that has a high density of apartments and is already choc a bloc with parking every evening. Its the only IPAS centre that I know of that is in the middle of a densely populated residential area".

"I will be meeting with residents on Tuesday night in an effort to create a residents association. I believe that the first and most important step of that residents association will be to a meet with the Minister Roderic O'Gorman. Most people I spoke with today pleaded that there would be no gatherings or protests on the lane and I agree with them. The residents I spoke to were more concerned with possible protests than anything else. This is not a big wide open space. This is a very narrow residential area. I would ask people to keep the area calm".

"Shockingly it has come to my attention that some of the apartments may have been cleared of their original residents in order to make space for this IPAS lease.I have submitted questions to the Minister for Integration, Roderic O'Gorman asking him, have apartments in Navan, been cleared of residents for the purpose of making apartments available for more lucrative IPAS contracts I have asked him has he analysed how many rental apartments have been taken out of the rental market in Ireland as a result of this practice. This is a serious issue. We are already under dire pressure for rental accommodation in Meath and government should not be systematically reducing that number of rental properties available. Its important to point out that Mill Lane is an area of Navan that already has a high population of people new to Ireland. The policy of the government is having the effect of clearing out these new families, who are new to Ireland who were putting down roots in that area".

"It has also come to my attention that apartments being leased to IPAS have been partitioned to increase the number of bedrooms that can bemonetizedwithin the IPAS system. I have asked Is the Minister if he is concerned that this partition of rooms may lead to IPAS contracts being more profitable than rental agreements and thus taking them out of the long term rental market in Ireland".

"I have also asked the Minister for Integration if housing standards and regulations for IPAS accommodation are lower than for the regular rental market as it has been reported to me that an apartment in Navan failed HAP regulations in terms of its roof but that it has been deemed acceptable for IPAS accommodation".

"One of the major problems is the government has been incredibly poor in enforcing the law in Ireland. Aontú uncovered that last year 85% of deportation orders were not enforced, a incredible indictment of the Government’s record.We found out that 5,000 people came through Dublin Airport without a passport last year. Aontú found out that 80% of asylum applicants last year applied at the IPO office. Shockingly the Ministers Office did not know, nor was asking how these people came into the country. Finally the penny has dropped with the Minister that these people were traveling across the border with the north. But this only happened because we pushed her to do her job properly".

"The pressure on the system is in large part because the government has refused to do its job. The Minister owes it to the people to start to listen to them now".

PUBLIC MEETING LANNED TO GET MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL TO IMPLEMENT SAFETY
MEASURES ON RURAL ROADS

Friday 6th September 2024, 09:30

Following on from the latest near miss road incident on Co. Meath's
rural roads, a local Politician says he has "had enough" and is
organising a protest to get "Meath County Council to finally put badly
needed safety measures in place".

Trim Aontú Cllr Dave Boyne says the "notorious stretch from
Brannockstown Cross and Ardenew Cross" was the scene of yet another
incident this week and it was only through the fast thinking of the
bus driver that serious injury or death was averted".

Cllr Boyne says,

"As a parent and elected Councillor, I simply cannot understand how
Meath County Council has not moved to ensure the safety of road users
along this dangerous part. What is it waiting for? So many accidents
have happened along here over the decades, as the road is
significantly higher than the land either side_. _Despite this, no
barriers or hard shoulders have ever been put in place. Similarly, on
the Hill-Of-Down railway bridge, there is a massive drop exposed on
one side, without any protection".

"I am organising a public meeting at Trim Council Office on Saturday the 13th
September and I am urging people to turn out en masse. Meath County
Council has a duty of care to the people of the county who are
literally dicing with death on some of its rural roads".

"Enough is enough . It has to act".

Other energy providers must cut prices and absorb standing charge hike - Darren O’Rourke TD

5th September 15:29 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Climate Action and the Environment, Darren O’Rourke TD, has said that Electric Ireland’s example must be followed by other suppliers in the electricity market in order to provide the urgent relief that ordinary workers and families need.

Teachta O'Rourke said:

“Today, Electric Ireland announced that it will cut the cost of its domestic electricity from the beginning of November, and has pledged to absorb the higher network charges that were greenlit by the energy regulator last week.

“It is essential that their competitors now follow suit. First, in lowering prices, then secondly and importantly, in announcing that the network charge increase won’t lead to a price hike on domestic bills via the standing charge.

“There is also the issue of the regressive PSO levy, which the regulator also recently announced would increase from October.

“As well as the significant reform that is required, it is Sinn Féin’s belief that these increases should again distributed more equitably, both by a larger burden being placed on large energy users such as data centres, and by being absorbed by the energy companies who continue to make exorbitant profits.

“While any decrease in the astronomical bills that people have been crippled with will undoubtedly bring much needed relief, it is important not to forget that Ireland’s electricity prices remain some of the most expensive in Europe.

“Since their peak in 2022 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, energy prices have fallen much more slowly here than they have elsewhere in Europe. The reason for this, energy providers claim, is because of their hedging strategies yet the regulator has absolutely zero oversight of this, or indeed of standing charges.

“The reality is that government inaction is at the heart of these rip-off prices.

“Unlike this Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Green government, who seem content to prevaricate while ordinary workers and families continue to suffer, Sinn Féin have set out a suite of measures to help tackle Ireland’s stubbornly high energy prices for good.”

Flax Mill House in Navan set to become IPAS Centre

04/09/2024

It has been confirmed this morning that the Flax Mill House in Navan Co. Meath is set to become an International Protection Accommodation Services Centre. Located at Mill Lane in Navan Co. Meath, it will accommodate 40 International Protection Migrants initially which will rise to 70 by the end of September.

The announcement was made this morning by Navan Town Councillor Alan Lawes who welcomed the news, while hitting out at Meath County Council and the government for not providing adequate accommodation and services for the homeless over the last 10 years.

Lawes made the following announcement on social media this morning. He said:

 “I received an email last night as did all our local TD's Senators and Councillors.

It was from the Department of Children Equality Disability Intergration and Youth.

I was informed that Flaxmill House Mill Lane Navan will be used to accommodate 40 International Protection Migrants initially which will increase to 70 in late September.

As a local councillor I will be welcoming these vulnerable people and I will supporting them the same way I have supported all vulnerable people living in our community over the last 10 years.

My grievance is not with these vulnerable people who should be provided with emergency accommodation as is their right under international law, my grievance is with Meath County Council and our Government who have failed to provide adequate accommodation ( in particular a homeless hostel in Navan) and services to vulnerable homeless people over the last 10 years and all through our housing emergency”.

Lorraine Keane launches Relove Fashion Competition nationwide

Open to young people of secondary school age across Ireland

Thursday 5th September, 10:05 am

The Relove Fashion Competition has announced that registrations are now open to young people from participating Local Authorities in the Republic of Ireland. This unique competition offers teenagers the chance to showcase their creativity and passion for sustainable fashion by designing and creating their own sustainable outfits.

Participants in the Relove Fashion Competition will get the opportunity to delve into the world of sustainable fashion, learning essential skills such as repurposing, upcycling, altering and repair. The competition challenges entrants to use their creative design skills to create a sustainable, wearable outfit from preloved clothing and textiles. The textiles can be unwanted items in their own wardrobe, donations from friends or family, items sourced at swap events or from charity shops.

Previous winning designs have been beautifully crafted from bed linen, curtains, cushions, shirts, ties, and even Santa Hats.

Speaking at the launch of the Relove Fashion Competition 2024, Lorraine Keane, Fashion Relief founder, entrepreneur and media presenter said “I am thrilled to launch this exciting new step for the Relove Fashion Competition. I have been involved as a judge since the beginning and it is wonderful to see it grow from a regional competition to a national competition. This means that secondary school aged students throughout the Republic of Ireland can enter the competition. I am really looking forward to seeing the creativity and ingenuity of this year’s students.”

Joanne Rourke, Resource Efficiency Officer, Eastern-Midlands Regional Waste Management Plan Office said “The Regional Waste Management Planning Offices are incredibly proud of our association with the Relove Fashion Competition. The innovation, dedication, consideration and talent that the students display each year is a credit to the students, the Rediscovery Centre team, the local authority Environmental Awareness Officers and the many teachers who work all year to make the Relove Fashion Competition such a resounding success.”

Arran Murphy, Programme Manager of Rediscover Fashion at Rediscovery Centre “The Relove Fashion Competition is a great project for young people to be involved in. The competition encourages young people to explore sustainable fashion practices by upcycling, redesigning, and repurposing old garments. By extending this opportunity nationwide, Relove Fashion aims to inspire a new generation of designers who are passionate about creativity, the circular economy, and ethical fashion.”

The competition is open to young people in Meath, as Meath County Council is a participating Local Authority. The Relove Fashion Competition is kindly supported by the Government of Ireland, The Regional Waste Management Planning Offices, Rediscovery Centre and participating local authorities.

To enter the Relove Fashion Competition visithttps://www.relovefashion.ie/how-to-enter

HOW MANY MORE ROAD DEATHS WILL IT TAKE TO WAKE COUNCIL UP?

4 / 9 / 2024

How many deaths on Meath’s roads will it take to wake the Council up.

That’s the stark question being posed by Trim Aontú Cllr Dave Boyne who says he is seriously worried about the lack of safety measures on the county’s rural roads in the light of yet another near miss on what he describes as a “notorious stretch Brannockstown Cross and Ardenue Cross”.

Cllr Boyne says.

“A school bus full of children, was involved in a serious near miss this week. The road the bus was travelling on leads on to the lethal Ardenew Cross, where many fatal incidents have occurred, due in the main to lack of speed reduction measures, and lack of visibility. It is only a matter of time before it happens again, and the consequences don’t bear thinking about”.

“Many accidents have happened along here over the decades, as the road is significantly higher than the land either side.Despite this, no barriers or hard shoulders have ever been put in place. Similarly on the Hill-Of-Down railway bridge, there is a massive drop exposed on one side, without any protection”.

“As recently as the last Trim Municipal District meeting, I called for traffic calming measures on the approaches to every town and village, every Church, every school, every bridge. I asked that it be adapted county-wide. This is on record”.

“The safety of people travelling on our rural roads must be paramount and the Council has a complete duty of care to ensure it takes their safety seriously .I will keep looking for vital road safety measures until the Council installs them”

Meath County Council Staff and Members of the Meath Age Friendly Alliance Participate in Dementia Awareness Training to Enhance Community Support

Meath County Council is proud to announce that staff members across various departments and members of the Meath Age Friendly Alliance have completed specialised Dementia Awareness Training as part of the authority's ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive community for all residents, including those living with dementia.

This training, which was delivered by Training2Care, is a worldwide, scientifically and medically proven method of giving a person with a healthy brain an experience of what dementia might be like, allowing delegates to enter the world of the person and understand which simple changes need to be made to their practice and environment to really improve lives of people with dementia.

Meath County Council recognises that dementia is a growing concern, with over 64,000 people currently living with the condition in Ireland. As public servants, it is crucial that our staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills to assist those impacted by dementia, ensuring they receive the respect, care, and support they deserve.

Fiona Fallon, Director of Services at Meath County Council commented: "We are committed to fostering an inclusive community where every resident feels supported. This training is an important step in ensuring our staff can provide the highest level of service to those living with dementia and their families. By understanding the challenges they face, we can better tailor our services and interactions to meet their needs."

This initiative was organised in collaboration between Meath County Council’s Healthy Meath and Meath Age Friendly Programmes. For more information about these programmes please contacthealthymeath@meathcoco.ie orcommunity@meathcoco.ie.

A school Bus carrying schoolchildren has overturned in Meath

3rd September 2024

Gardaí and emergency services are currently at the scene in Longwood in Co. Meath and no injuries have been reported as of yet.

More to follow.

Meath County Council welcomes Ambassador Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Ambassador of the State of Palestine.

3^rdSeptember 2024

Meath County Council welcomed Ambassador Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Ambassador of the State of Palestine, together with her guest, Senator Frances Black, to Buvinda House, Navan, yesterday morning.

An Cathaoirleach Cllr. Sharon Tolan acknowledged the significant and momentous day, when on 22nd May 2024, An Taoiseach Simon Harris together with Tánaiste Mícheal Martin and Minister Eamon Ryan announced that Ireland would recognise the State of Palestine and she noted that with this act, Ireland proudly stands among the 146 nations worldwide that have taken this significant step.

An Cathaoirleach further noted that this was not just a formal gesture but a potent symbol of political support and a testament to the aspirations of those who tirelessly advocate for a future marked by peace, democracy, and sovereignty. She called for a ceasefire, for the unconditional release of hostages and for unhindered access to humanitarian aid, and that civilians, on all sides, must be protected under International Humanitarian Law.

Ambassador Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid asserted her desire to strengthen ties between the people of Palestine and the people of County Meath. She called for the people of County Meath to do all they could to support calls to bring conflict in Gaza to a halt.

The Chief Executive, Kieran Kehoe, thanked the Ambassador for taking the time to meet with the Elected Members of the Council and he noted the cross-party support in the Council Chamber for the people of Palestine. He further reiterated that the only pathway to peace is a political peace process.

Gardaí seek public's assistance in tracing missing Drogheda man

02/09/2024

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 57-year-old Trevor Cranston who is missing from his home in Drogheda, Co. Louth since Monday 26th August 2024.

Trevor is described as being approximately 5 foot 10 inches in height, of strong build with greying hair.

It is not known what Trevor was wearing when last seen.

Gardaí and Trevor’s family are concerned for his well-being.

Anyone with information on Trevor’s whereabouts is asked to contact Drogheda Garda Station on (041) 9874200, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

PEOPLE IN CO MEATH ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PEOPLE’S ENQUIRY

1/9/2024

People in Co. Meath who lost loved ones in Nursing Homes during COVID 19 are being encouraged to participate in a brand new initiative by one of Ireland’s best known advocacy groups.

Care Champions who advocate for the rights of vulnerable individuals and their families receiving care in Ireland, have launched a drive to hold ‘The People's COVID Inquiry’, to collate the stories of those affected by deaths of people in nursing homes during the pandemic.

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín says

“The groundbreaking initiative is vital step towards gathering information around the handling of thousands of deaths in nursing homes during the pandemic.

“The heartbreaking deaths of people in nursing homes during COVID 19 is one of the biggest human rights issues of our times.2,457 people died in Nursing homes with some 21,936 people contracting the virus in nursing homes during the Pandemic.”

“Aontú is the only party that has consistently campaigned for a full COVID enquiry that would compel people to testify. I’m afraid the Government’s proposed ‘evaluation’ falls far short of this”.

“’The People’s Enquiry’ on the other hand will gather the experiences of a wide range of people including human rights experts, legal professionals and academics assembled to conduct this inquiry”

“It is being organised by ‘Care Champions’, a group that has been vocal in its calls for a thorough investigation into the policies and practices in Ireland’s care facilities during COVID 19. This independent review will collate information from surviving residents, family members, healthcare staff, healthcare experts and other key stakeholders in a bid to determine how COVID was handled in nursing homes”.

“Also importantly it will detail their experiences in trying to get answers from official channels following the deaths of their loved ones”.

“I believe this impartial and open enquiry is a crucial step in giving voice to the rights of people with disabilities, the elderly and their families. They need and absolutely deserve this”.

“Aontú has strongly fought for an open and transparent inquiry. Anything less is an absolute insult to the thousands who died, to their families and loved ones and to those who strive for justice and fairness”.

13-Year-old girl missing from Mulhuddart Dublin 15

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 13 year old Aliyah Smyth Donnelly who was last seen shortly after 4pm on Saturday 31st August, 2024 in Mulhuddart, Dublin 15.

Aliyah is described as being approximately 5 foot 2 inches in height with a slim build. Her hair is mid-length dark brown and green eyes.

When last seen, Aliyah was wearing a black t-shirt with red graphics, blue baggy jeans and black shoes.

Anyone with any information on Aliyah's whereabouts is asked to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station on 01 666 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Two youths arrested in Ashbourne for attempted Car break-ins

Following reports of two youths breaking into cars in the Cluain Rí and Ballybin Road areas of Ashbourne yesterday, Gardaí from Ashbourne responded and noted two males beside a car.

When Gardaí approached, they noticed the rear window of the car was smashed.

Both males were then apprehended following a foot pursuit. They were brought to Ashbourne Garda Station and a file has been forwarded to the Director, Garda Youth Diversion Office.

Relief for Bohermeen Secondary Students as School Transport Finally Secured

Meath West TD and Aontú leader, Deputy Peadar Tóibín has said he is delighted that school transport for Bohermeen secondary students to Navan is secured following his ongoing engagement with the Minister for Education.

Speaking about the news Tóibín stated “It is with huge relief for so many of the students and their parents from the Bohermeen area that a dedicated school bus has been now been secured. I’m aware that for some time parents had been seeking to have Bohermeen included on the official route for students attending secondary schools in Navan or to have their own separate bus. This made total sense as there are almost 40 students alone in the area who have been in need of school transport, and that number can only be expected to increase. During the past year having been contacted by parents I have campaigned actively to the Minister for Education and the School Transport section through consistently raising Parliamentary Questions in order for Bohermeen to have their own school transport in place for the start of this school year.

“The Minister in a reply to me earlier this year had advised that the students from Bohermeen should make sure to apply for tickets, and the route could possibly be reviewed or adapted for this school year. Yet when tickets were issued earlier in the summer Bohermeen wasn’t included on the route at all with parents still expected to drive to the nearest collection point some miles away. Following further communication with the Minister for Education, I am delighted to have been informed that a 25 seater bus has now been put in place. Unfortunately, because many of the remaining parents of these students had such little faith that the Minister would actually deliver having campaigned for some time, they didn’t see it as a worthwhile to pay for the tickets without even knowing if a bus would be provided. I understand that now that transport has been secured for the area, the remaining students and their parents would like to also avail of this school bus. I’m happy to keep engaging with the Minister for Education and the School Transport section to try to ensure that provision is also made for those additional students who still require transport.”

Tóibín continued “Separately, I’m aware that students and their parents from the Rathcore area of Meath still wish to pursue their campaign to have a dedicated school bus to Trim from their area. While as many as 20 students from that area do secure tickets, they are only concessionary. The allocation of these tickets is through a lottery system meaning there is no certainty from year to year as to which students receive tickets and which don’t. This places enormous stress on their parents. If they are not successful in getting a ticket it has huge knock-on implications for parents trying to make alternative travel arrangements as many travel outside the area for work leaving early in the mornings. I understand at least 2 families from the Rathcore area weren’t successful this year which places enormous strain on the parents and students.”

“I have to commend the Meath Local Link office for really stepping up in the last few years to assist where they can to facilitate students left without transport. I have been happy to work with them in the past year and with the CEO of the National Transport Authority to secure funding for additional buses serving students on the Baconstown route attending schools in Trim. While traditionally school transport falls outside of the remit of Local Link, they too have recognised the extra demand for students in need of transport within the Meath area. I’m happy to assist in any way to keep working with the National Transport Authority to continue to seek funding in areas of Meath where local public service buses can also meet the demand for any students and their parents finding themselves without a means of permanent school transport”, Tóibín concluded.

Gardaí renew appeal for missing 16-year-old from Meath    

Gardaí are renewing their appeal to the public for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 16-year-old Martin O’Donoghue, who is missing from his home in Julianstown, Co. Meath, since Monday, 19th August 2024.

Martin is described as being approximately 5ft 6” in height, of slim build, with dark brown hair and blue eyes.

When last seen, Martin was wearing a grey zip hoodie, black tracksuit bottoms and blue Nike runners.

It is believed Martin may be inthe Midleton area of Cork.

Anyone with information on Martin’s whereabouts is asked to contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01 801 0600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Extra €100 on household electricity bills underlines need for reform of regressive government approach to operating national grid - Darren O’Rourke TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Darren O’Rourke TD, has slammed the government’s regressive approach to maintaining a functioning electricity system in Ireland.

He argued that it is too often that ordinary workers and families are expected to shoulder a dipropionate share of the burden.

Commenting on the news today that household electricity bills would rise by a staggering €100, the Meath East TD said:

“Today we learned that the Commission for the Regulator of Utilities, the CRU, approved an increase of €100 in the network change for households from October. This increase is adding to the significant financial strain on ordinary people, especially considering the fact that electricity prices are still way above the pre-energy crisis average, and considerably higher than the European average. To add insult to injury, network costs in Ireland are some of the highest in Europe.

“With the number of households in arrears already at staggering levels, the reality is the increase will inevitably lead to more families struggling to pay their bills and at risk of disconnection.

“In Sinn Féin, we believe households deserve much better. The government’s decision to allow this additional charge demonstrates their commitment to a system that is deeply unfair.

“While investment in our electricity grid is essential and must be prioritised as we transition to net zero, the burden must be shared equitably. Ordinarily workers and families should not be expected to face continuously rising costs all the while energy companies make off into the sunset with massive profits.

“This price hike is in addition to the reported €40 increase in the PSO levy for households announced a number of weeks ago. The PSO levy is intended to bolster the roll out of renewables by subsidising the generation of electricity from sustainable sources, such as wind and solar power.

“While this levy has an important role to play, the way it has been implemented by Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Greens is deeply regressive, as the burden is not evenly or equitably distributed across or within different user groups.

“Like with network charges, ordinary workers and families are hit hardest, and the government has made absolutely zero effort to ensure that these charges form part of a just transition for households.

“Households cannot withstand the strain of yet another price in their electricity bills. Something needs to change and fast.

“Unlike the government’s socially and environmentally regressive approach to reaching net zero, Sinn Féin has a suite of progressive proposals which would provide a pathway for a just energy transition.

“For example, to put an end to the inequity in the PSO levy, we would reform its structure and distribution. This progressive approach would achieve much more equitable outcomes for ordinary workers and families.

“Similarly, to address the fact that energy companies continue to make massive profits all the while the standing charge to households on electricity bills continues to increase, Sinn Féin has introduced legislation to give the energy regulator the power to regulate standing charges. It would require them to justify continual increases as their profits continue to soar.

“As we transition to net zero, it is crucial that ordinary workers and families are shielded from undue cost-burdens. The government must stop treating them as the collateral damage in the move toward a fossil free future.”

Early morning glory for Oasis fans as the band announce reunion tour

Oasis have announced their long-awaited reunion tour, 15 years after the infamous backstage bust-up between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher.

The Manchester-formed group, one of the defining rock bands of the Nineties, split in 2009 after a fiery row in Paris and have not played together since.

They will play two dates in Croke Park on August 16 and 17 next year, the end of a 14-date tour for which tickets will go on sale this Saturday 31 at 8am Irish time through Ticketmaster.

They will also play dates in Cardiff, Manchester, London and Edinburgh, with the stretch of dates including four nights at Wembley.

For now, it doesn’t look like a return to Slane for the Gallagher brothers. Oasis first played Slane in 1995 as support to R.E.M and they then returned fourteen years later to headline the Meath venue to a sell-out 80,000 crowd.

41% Increase in Rents is Proof of Government Housing Failure - Tóibín

Commenting on the latest Daft.ie rental figures around the country Aontú Leader and Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín stated:

"The average rent in Ireland is now €1,922 a month. Rents have increased by a staggering 41% since pre Covid times. This rent is not affordable and is crucifying families. The median price for a house is €337,500. The last census showed that 440,000 adults were still living in their parents’ home. The Government's housing policy has destroyed the ambition of young people to be able to have their own home. Heartbreakingly housing dysfunction in Ireland is leading to our young people taking to emigration again. Right now there are students trying to decide which course to accept based solely on what they see on daft.ie".

"Government dysfunction is the root cause of the crisis. There are currently 60,000 households on Local Authority waiting lists for social housing in Ireland. Yet incredibly there are 163,000 vacant homes in Ireland. There are grants for vacant homes but the criterion for application is too tight. According to an Aontú PQ the total money being spent on this project throughout the country comes in at a quarter of a million euro every month, which equates to five or six houses every month. At this rate it will take over three thousand years for the government to bring every vacant home in the country back into use,” Deputy Tóibín said.

Aontú are calling for the government to reform and speed up the planning permission process system, build more social & private housing, properly fund the return of vacant houses back to use, end land bank speculation; incentivise the return of Irish construction workers from abroad, increase the number of construction apprenticeships, end tax advantages for predatory Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and end Air bnb in large towns and cities.

 Missing 16-Year-old last seen in Navan Shopping Centre

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 16 year old Michaela Colgan O'Connor who is missing from her home in Whitehall area of Dublin 9. Michaela was last seen at Navan Shopping Centre on Monday, 19th August 2024.

Michaela is described as being approximately 5 foot 6 inches in height with a thin build, black hair and brown eyes.