Government must act to fix School Meals Programme - Darren O'Rourke TD

Wednesday 14th Janauary 2025, 14:51pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has today called on government to urgently address the serious failings in the delivery of the Hot School Meals Programme.

This follows submissions by School Management Bodies to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Youth today, which highlight that while the programme is providing vital support to children, its current implementation is placing unsustainable pressure on schools.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“The School Meals Programme is a lifeline for many children. In a state where one in five children are living in households that cannot afford basics, a hot meal in school can mean the difference between a child being able to learn or going hungry.

“Submissions from School Management Bodies make clear that the scheme is working in principle - improving attendance, concentration, and equity in our classrooms. However, the government’s failure to properly design and resource the programme is undermining its potential and overburdening our schools.

“Principals and staff are being forced to act as procurement officers, accountants, and waste managers, spending up to five hours a week on administration alone - time that should be spent supporting children’s education. This is happening in a system already stretched to breaking point.

“Schools are also dealing with poor food quality, excessive waste, hidden costs like soaring electricity bills, and a lack of appropriate meals for children with allergies or dietary needs. These are not teething problems - they are systemic failures.

“The new Minister must heed these concerns. I support the call for urgent funding to cover schools’ administrative, utility, and waste costs associated with the programme and for a full review of the programme in partnership with schools, parents and pupils. It is also necessary to improve meal quality, choice and age-appropriate portions, with better options for children with dietary restrictions.

“Further sustainability and waste reduction measures should be embedded into the programme’s design and, as has been proposed by many, the scheme should be integrated with food education and wellbeing initiatives to promote healthy eating and environmental awareness.

“This is a good policy with flawed execution. The government must stop passing the buck onto principals and ensure that the programme is properly funded, managed and integrated into the broader school day. No child should be hungry in school. Sinn Féin will continue to stand with schools, parents and pupils in calling for a school meals programme that works for everyone.”

Government must provide an appropriate school place for every child, regardless of NCSE’s October deadline – Darren O’Rourke TD

Thursday 18th December 2025, 10:07am

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has called on the government to guarantee that every child with additional needs will be provided with an appropriate school place for September 2026, regardless of whether they met the NCSE’s ‘notification deadline’ of 1st October.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“This government must provide assurances for parents of children with additional needs who were unable to notify the NCSE that their child would require a place in a special class, before the October 1st deadline.

“I have had a number of parents across Meath and further afield contact me with real concerns that their child will not have access to an appropriate education next year, because they did not notify the NCSE before October 1st. There are several reasons why some parents were not able to inform the NCSE of their child’s need including the fact that their child did not have a recommendation, or they were simply unaware of the deadline. This was the first year that this October deadline was in place.

“Families of children with additional needs are often forced to become campaigners, who battle for every bit of additional support for their children. I understand that bringing forward the deadline to notify the NCSE aims to plan special classes and places in schools, however, if the NCSE is notified after the deadline then all necessary measures must be undertaken to ensure that every child receives their right to an appropriate education.

“Instead, we have silence from Ministers Naughton and Moynihan and a standard response from the NCSE, telling parents who applied after the 1st October deadline that ‘the NCSE is no longer in a position to issue letters of eligibility’. This is simply unacceptable. Every child with additional needs has a right to an appropriate school place. Nothing less will do.

“There is currently a crisis in our special education system that does not seem to be going away. This government must step up and work to resolve this crisis.

“I urge Ministers Naughton and Moynihan to fulfil their duty and provide an appropriate school place for all children across the state whether they notified the NCSE before or after the October 1st deadline.”

ENDS

HOMEBASED CHILDMINDERS IN MEATH BEING FORCED OUT OF BUSINESS BY A ‘ TONE DEAF MINISTER’ - Cllr Emer Tóibín

Tuesday 11th November 2025, 11:30am

Claims by ‘Childminding Ireland’ that the Minister for Children is not engaging with the sector and will go down as the onewho oversaw the end of Childminding in Irelandshould be a serious wake up call.

That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín who says

“If the assertion by 'Childminding Ireland' that as many as 80% of home-based childminders could leave the sector is insufficient to prompt action from Minister Norma Foley, it is difficult to determine what would.

A mass exodus of home-based childminders would lead to an utter collapse and have untold consequences for children, parents and the childminders themselves, who are a vital source of care for children

“As a Mother I appreciate that minding young children is one of the most important roles and jobs that people can do, yet providers are treated with complete disdain by this Government who is clearly not valuing the very unique service they offer.

Home-based childminders across this constituency offer a home from home where children are loved, minded and treated as part of the family. This is the beauty of this form of childminding. It is a highly personalised service; children are not just another number; there is huge continuity of care and that is so important. Children need security and home-based childminders really embody this. It suits so many families down to the ground. It is affordable at a time when costs are going through the roof, it is flexible, people build up really important relationships, there is a familiarity and comfort that simply cannot be replicated elsewhere and siblings can be minded together, offering families real peace of mind.

This is all lost to our government though who seems totally unable to recognise the hugely valuable role that home based childminders play.

There was a very worrying case in Kildare where a home based childminder was actually assessed for commercial rates. This is totally unreasonable”.

Our Government is regulating the sector out of existence yet ignoring the very real needs of the sector, namely its repeated calls for its own legal and policy framework.It simply cannot continue to burden this sector with bureaucracy that does absolutely nothing to improve child safety but everything to make life more difficult for the home childminding providers who are offering real options for families.

If the Government was serious about child safety, it would absolutely ensure that all childminders should have access to Garda Vetting. Amazingly this is currently not the case, and it absolutely should be, as a minimum.

“Having spoken to countless families across Meath, I know first-hand how many are struggling to find creche and childcare places. If homebased providers feel forced into leaving, it will be chaotic. This crisis has been worsening for years, yet the government is failing to deliver solutions. It shows no urgency whatsoever in trying to get to grips with the situation and is lacking in vision around this critical issue.”

“We in Aontú have been challenging the government approach, which focuses taxpayer money solely on subsidising formal childcare providers like creches and playschools. We genuinely believe this is not serving people well at all. It is too narrow and exclusionary.The state should support those choices, not restrict them.

To create fairness and equality, Aontu proposes the following specific policies:

• Introduce tax credits for families whose children are cared for by childminders or family members, equalising support with what creches and playschools receive through state subsidies.
• Ensure all childcare workers receive proper, fair wagesrecognising their invaluable contribution to early childhood development.
• Provide flexible parental supports, including enhanced maternity and paternity leave options and financial incentives for part-time work arrangements, so parents can tailor work and care to their family’s needs.
• Expand direct financial support to families, empowering them to choose whether to stay at home, work part-time, or full-time without financial penalty or disadvantage.
• Offer accessible information and resourcesto help families make informed choices about childcare options best suited to their unique circumstances.

“I am calling on the Minister for Children Norma Foley to live up to her brief and to meet Childminders Ireland without delay. This sector cannot be ignored any longer; children in Meath depend on it”.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL : WHO DRAFTED ORIGINAL CONTRACTS AND FAILED TO PUT IN BASIC MEASURES TO PREVENT SPIRALING AND OUT OF CONTROL BILL FOR THE TAXPAYER - Cllr Emer Toibin

Wednesday 29th October 2025, 09:40am

The ever-spiralling costs of the development of the National Children’s Hospital will surely go down as one of the biggest scandals in Irish political history

Aontú Cllr Emer Toibin says

“Just when I think this whole debacle can’t get worse; it does”.

“The Hospital Board is now facing a claims bill of €880 Million from the Construction Company BAM which is absolutely nuts. To think that claims now far exceed the original cost of the construction of the hospital which stood at €650 Million is literally mind boggling.The fact that these are claims which will in turn have tobe defended means that the costs will rack up even more.

The lack of oversight is absolutely breathtaking. It is apparent that the most rudimentary oversight and forward planning did not take place when this contract was awarded and anybody with even the most basic grasp of budgeting would know that safeguards should have been put in place to prevent this unmitigated shambles.

I would like to know who drafted the original contracts and omitted to insert stage by stage safeguards - a lack of foresight and protective measures in the contract has turned what should have been a tightly managed build into a legal and financial quagmire — and, as always, the taxpayer is left footing the bill.

This has really been a disaster from start to finish and we’re nowhere near the finish line yet.

Not only has its completion missed 16 deadlines, and there are no guarantees whatsoever that it will even open now in July of next year, it is costing billions with the final estimate expected to be in the region of €2.4 Billion.

It is shocking and shameful and the lack of accountability is a damming indictment of this Government.

Remember it has been in Government for the past 15 years, in one form or the other and has stood by while the costs have gone completely out of control and the opening date resembles something out of Hans Christian Anderson’s fables.

Bear in mind that this is the National Children’s Hospital; children and their parents desperately need this facility and the ongoing scandal of its staggering costs and lack of opening does not seem to have this Government as exercised as it should be.

The Board of the Hospital is involved in public spats, High Court injunctions and other legal wrangling with the developers and all the time this Government is looking on as it has nothing to do with this disaster.

We know that Simon Harris signed off on it when he was Minister for Health, despite publicly and disingenuously trying to distance himself from any responsibility and yet he has not been held to account for this unmitigated disaster that is the NCH.

Aontú has been consistently calling for accountability on this and a whole swathe of other examples of reckless spending of public money and until such time that Government Ministers are actually accountable for their actions or lack thereof, we will have shameful situations like this.

Time’s Up! - Ní Mhurchú Demands Action to Scrap Clock Changes

Monday 20th October 2025, 09:36am

Strasbourg, 20th October 2025— Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú (Fianna Fáil) has called for an end to the long-running delays in scrapping the EU’s biannual clock change, as MEPs prepare to quiz senior EU officials in Strasbourg this week.

The issue returns to the floor of the European Parliament as citizens across Europe prepare to turn their clocks back an hour on Sunday, 26 October. Ní Mhurchú says it’s time to abolish what she describes as a “tired old tradition” that no longer serves a purpose.

“Europeans have spoken clearly — they want the clock-changing to end. The European Parliament voted for it, but the Council has dragged its feet for six years. It’s time to move forward and give people the certainty they deserve,”Ní Mhurchú said.

In 2018, the European Commission proposed ending the twice-yearly time changes after a landmark public consultation that drew 4.6 million responses, with 84% of participants in favour of abolition. The European Parliament voted to support the proposal in 2019, but it has since stalled at Council level, where member states have failed to reach a joint position.

On Thursday, MEPs are set to press the Commission and the Danish EU Presidency to explain what is blocking progress and to outline a roadmap for breaking the deadlock.

The EU first harmonised seasonal time changes in 1980 to ensure a coordinated approach within the single market. Under current rules, EU countries move clocks forward on the last Sunday in March and back on the last Sunday in October.

Ní Mhurchú said the case for reform is stronger than ever:

“This is about wellbeing, safety, and a more sensible Europe. There’s no reason to keep people in the dark — literally or politically.”

According to a recent study at Stanford University in the US, scientists found that changing the clocks twice a year disrupts circadian rhythms, the body's 24-hour internal clock that regulates cycles of alertness and sleepiness, along with other bodily processes like hormone release, digestion, and body temperature.

Sinn Féin would support and improve the lives of people with disabilities - Louise O’Reilly TD and Ruairí Ó Murchú TD

Wednesday 15th October 2025, 09:05am

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Louise O’Reilly TD, and spokesperson on Disability, Ruairí Ó Murchú TD, have said that Budget 2026 is a serious backwards step for people with disabilities.

They said that Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil must recognise they have failed people with disabilities, change course and commit to cost of disability supports immediately while there is still time.

Deputy O’Reilly and Ó Murchú were speaking this morning as they published Sinn Féin’s motion, which will be debated in the Dáil this evening, that would support and improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Teachta O’Reilly said:

“People with disabilities and their households are one of the groups most at risk of poverty in this state, and they have been abandoned in Budget 2026 - a budget that has Fine Gael’s fingerprints all over it.

“Sinn Féin’s alternative budget proposed a €20 disability allowance payment, provided for a €300 lump sum payment to recipients of all core social welfare payments, including disability allowance.

“We also proposed a €25 increase in domiciliary care allowance, a €450 energy credit and an annual increase of nearly €300 (€297) in the fuel allowance to ensure people with disabilities could get through the winter with a dignified standard of living.

“All this government has offered people with disabilities is a meagre €10 disability allowance increase that does not even keep up with inflation.

“Such a pitiful increase will be eaten up by food, energy and rents, which are all on the rise.

“It is cruel and frankly unjustifiable to pull supports from a group of whom half are experiencing material deprivation.

“The government must change course, and commit to cost of disability supports immediately while there is still time.

“That is why Sinn Féin is bringing forward this evening’s motion. We are demanding the government to reverse its complete lack of supports for people with disabilities, and will be making specific demands for targeted payments.

“Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have a duty of care and they simply ignore people with disabilities when it stops suiting them to court support ahead of a general election.

“There is talk from this government that they may consider a cost of disability payment in next year’s budget - as if subjecting hundreds of thousands of people with disabilities to poverty and material deprivation in the coming year can be neatly reversed with a flick of their pen in the following year. This is completely detached from the reality of how poverty affects people in the here and now.

“Sinn Féin will hold this government to account and ensure they are aware of the full scope of what they will be subjecting people with disabilities to if Budget 2026 is rolled out as planned.”

Teachta Ó Murchú said:

“People with disabilities and their advocacy groups have told me of their significant frustration and despair over the lack of targeted measures in Budget 2026 for them.

“An Indecon report, commissioned by government in 2021, confirmed the cost of disability, estimating it on average between €9,482 and €11,734 per annum.

“This was not the first report showing a cost of disability - an ESRI study from this year showing that households with a disabled member face significant financial burdens and are at very high risk of poverty.

“Sinn Féin’s motion this evening calls on government to develop and introduce a Cost of Disability Payment, to increase the Disability Allowance and other weekly disability-contingent social welfare payments by €20 from January 1st as an interim measure to begin to recognise the additional costs of disability, and to deliver a lump sum payment to people with disabilities this month to provide immediate recognition of these additional costs.

“These are measures that would support and improve the lives of people with disabilities - the government needs to listen and take action.”

Schools will remain under-funded and over-crowded after 'feeble' Budget 2026 - Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 08th October 2025, 11:41 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has criticised the government for their failure to deal with the fundamental issues facing our education system.

The Meath East TD said that, in failing to reduce the pupil/teacher ratio, Minister Helen McEntee has abandoned a key Programme for Government commitment at the first hurdle.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“Budget 2026 fails to address the fundamental challenges facing our education system. This budget does not contain the ambitious, strategic investment required to address the chronic issues that are eroding the educational system.

“This budget will give little confidence to our principals, teachers, SNAs and wider school communities, who had hoped that this government would provide the support, funding and infrastructure that is vital.

“Ireland has the largest class sizes in Europe. We have 51,000 oversized classrooms with over 30 students. Though the government committed to reducing class sizes to 19 students, it is clear from the figures in this budget that that commitment has been abandoned.

“There will be no reduction in class sizes or the pupil/teacher ratio this year. This means our children will continue learning in overcrowded classrooms and teachers will be expected to cater for super-sized classes. That is simply unacceptable.

“Schools are struggling to keep up with running costs, especially in energy, heat and insurance. Many schools have been forced to rely on the Financial Support Service Unit (FSSU) in the Department for assistance. A significant increase in the capitation grant was essential to off-set increasing costs, years of chronic under-funding, and the fact that a cost-of-living package for schools, similar to last year, was, incredibly, off the table.

“The Budget 2026 capitation grant increase of €50 for primary schools and €20 for secondary schools falls far short of what is required. In truth, this increase will be swallowed up by increasing costs and the fact that there is no cost-of-living package.

“Budget 2026 fails to tackle the fundamental issues in education - in special education, in educational disadvantage, in school transport, in therapies in schools, in youth services, and elsewhere – the funding is inadequate and the plans are skeletal.

“We shouldn’t be surprised that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have delivered a budget that fails so miserably, but it is deeply disappointing. It means children will continue to be denied the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.”

Aontú sees spike in membership following Presidential selection process - Cllr Emer Tóibín

Monday 29th September 2025, 11:05am

Aontú has seen a spike in membership since the close of nominations for the Presidential Election last Wednesday (24^thSept) .

In just three days, its ranks have jumped considerably, in what is being seen as a response to the contentious selection process.

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín says

“People saw that Aontú facilitated the democratic process and put together a Caucus of Oireachtas members to explore selecting a candidate.

Maria Steen won that selection process .

Aontú , together with all the other elected Oireachtas members and those Councillors around the country who pledged their signatures for Independent candidate Maria Steen, wanted another voice in the contest and wanted an actual competition , not a coronation. Many Oireachtas members who signed for her may not have actually endorsed her as is their absolute right, many were totally open and said they would actually vote for other candidates on Election Day, but at least they gave her the chance toget on the ballot paper and let the people decide their President.

She would have been an intelligent, strong and able debater and would have represented tens of thousands of people throughout the country.

Many Fianna Fáil councillors themselves were deeply disappointed at being denied a free vote. One can only imagine the widespread frustration across the country, that so many people who genuinely value choice and inclusion have been denied both. It is striking that those most vocal about empowering others and hearing every voice did nothing to make that a reality in this Presidential election. The people’s choice on who to vote for has been sadly, and very seriously, limited.

Despite the outcome, Aontú will always stand for real democracy, not Fine Gael’s version, not the government’s version , but a democracy where power truly flows upward from the people, not downward from parties or elites. In matters such as the presidential nomination, elected representatives must be free to act on conscience and mandate, not constrained by the whip or the fear of deselection. It is only then that genuine voice can be given to viewpoints right across the spectrum, and that, in turn, is what truly strengthens and benefits society

Greystones Unites for a Greener Future at Dr. Ryan Park - Cllr Stephen Stokes

Monday 22nd September 2025, 09:55 am

World Cleanup Day came to the Dr. Ryan Park, Greystones on Saturday, September 20th 2025. An estimated 100kg of waste was removed. The event was organised by Cllr Stephen Stokes who paid tribute to all of the participants. It brought together volunteers from Greystones, Delgany and Charlesland, who worked tirelessly to clear waste and improve the local environment. The day’s efforts were a shining example of community spirit, with wide-ranging participants including families.

World Cleanup Day is a global movement, uniting millions of people from more than 180 countries to tackle waste and environmental pollution. Founded in 2008 in Estonia, it has grown into the world’s largest volunteer-based environmental cleanup initiative. Each year, millions of volunteers take part in cleanup efforts, focusing not only on trash removal but also on raising awareness of the broader issues of waste management, recycling, and environmental protection. The global events help in the fight against pollution.

The Greystones cleanup was part of this global initiative, with Cllr Stephen Stokes expressing his appreciation for the local turnout. Cllr Stokes stated: “It is inspiring to see the community come together to protect the environment. Every year, World Cleanup Day reminds us that we all have a part to play in preserving the beauty of our surroundings. It was heartening to witness so many people of all ages volunteering their time to improve the Dr. Ryan Park. It helps to ensure that our environment remains clean and safe for future generations.”

Thanks were also expressed to Greystones Tidy Towns and the Greystones Municipal District Office for their support. Cllr Stokes added: “Greystones Tidy Towns always give us fantastic promotion. It gives us great momentum and energy. Meanwhile, the Greystones District Office supplies the bags and organises to take the waste away. We couldn’t have done it without their support. The effort put in by everyone involved is a testament to the strength of our community and its commitment to making a positive environmental impact. The cleanup not only makes Dr. Ryan Park a cleaner, more beautiful space, but it also sends a clear message that local people care about the local environment.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes encourages everyone to stay engaged with local environmental projects throughout the year. The next cleanup of the Dr. Ryan Park is expected in Spring 2026, as part of National Spring Clean. Cllr Stokes concluded: “World Cleanup Day is just the beginning. There is always more work to be done, and we must continue to make our environment a priority. Let’s keep the momentum going and work together for a cleaner, greener future.”

Meath delegates to attend Annual Aontú National Think In

Tuesday 09th September 2025, 14:24

Delegates from across Co Meath will join their Aontú colleagues for the party’s Annual National ‘Think in’ next Saturday (13^thSeptember).

Aontú Leader, Deputy Peadar Toibin, together with Navan and Trim Cllrs, Emer Tóibín and Dave Boyne will join Cumann members and officers for the event where Delegates will discuss Ireland’s most pressing challenges, reflect on achievements and plan an ambitious path forward.

Speaking ahead of the event Cllr Emer Tóibín said

“Aontú is entering its seventh year and our the Annual National ‘Think In’ serves as a reflection of our party’s resilience, progress, and steadfast adherence to principles. Aontú’s representation has expanded to include three members in Dáil Éireann—and eight county councillors, myself among them

Latest polls show us at sitting at 4% which puts us on an equal footing with the likes of Labour, which is of course the oldest party in the State, People Before Profit and Independent Ireland.

This growth is really important and notable, given Ireland’s complex history with smaller and emerging parties. Many individuals previously unaffiliated with any political group have joined Aontú, attracted by our consistent commitment to common sense, life, unity, and economic justice. Others who may have been loyal members of other parties have also joined us as they are so incredibly disillusioned by broken promises and a broken political system. Our party’s record demonstrates a continuous effort to hold the government accountable by demanding transparency and advocating for policies in the public interest.

Aontú maintains a clear agenda that has at its heart economic justice, the protection of life, and the goal of national unity. We consistently support measures that promote equitable opportunities, strengthen families, and encourage inclusive prosperity. The Annual National ‘Think In’ provides an important forum for our members across Co. Meath and countrywide to collaborate, strategise, and affirm our collective mission to build a nation where everyone can live with dignity and thrive”.

Free travel for children extended to under 9s in Louth - Cllr Ejiro O’Hare Stratton

Thursday 4th August 2025, 09:58 am

From today, the new TFI Child Leap Card will extend free travel in Louth on all TFI services for children between 5 and 8 years of age, said a Fine Gael Cllr Ejiro O’ Hare Stratton .

Cllr Ejiro O’ Hare Strattonsaid the card, available through leapcard.ie, will expand free travel to almost a quarter of a million children across Ireland, building upon existing free travel on public transport for children under 5-years of age.

This measure was announced as part of the Budget 2025 package of measures and is a key Fine Gael delivery on the Programme for Government commitment to make public transport more affordable and accessible for families.

“It is fantastic to see this being rolled out inLouth Fine Gael are committed to alleviating the financial burden associated with transport costs to parents,” said

Cllr Ejiro O’ Hare Stratton

““Fine Gael are all about putting money back in your pocket. I would urge all Louth residents to apply now for their eligible children.”

Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD said: “I am delighted to see that the expansion of this scheme will support almost a quarter of a million more children and their families by providing access to free travel for under 9s, it also lays foundations for lifelong habits of sustainable travel.

“From an early age, children will become more familiar with using buses, trains, and trams as a natural part of daily life. This scheme represents a significant step towards a more fair and inclusive public transport system. As the NTA continues to roll out its National Fares Determination Strategy, this initiative builds on a series of measures designed to ensure that different passenger cohorts can benefit equally from our public transport offerings.”

“Parents juggling school runs or weekend trips into town will now see the benefits of free travel for young children. Importantly, it applies across all TFI services, including Local Link and services under Connecting Ireland, that are the backbone of connectivity for so many rural communities. This step ensures that families, whether in cities, towns, or villages, can access public transport offerings as part of daily life. This is Fine Gael delivering in Government, as we said we would.”

For more information and to apply for a child leap card, visit leapcard.ie

Free Schoolbook Scheme not making a dent as back-to-school costs skyrocket – Darren O’Rourke TD

Tuesday 02nd September 2025, 14:10 pm

Sinn Fein spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has said Minister McEntee must substantially increase investment in the Education system as parents are forced into debt to cover back to school costs.

Deputy O’Rourke said that any savings from the Schoolbooks Scheme are being swallowed up by digital devices and increased voluntary contributions, adding that this is a direct result of inadequate investment in our schools.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“Unfortunately, the extension of the Schoolbooks Scheme to cover all second level schools is not making a dent in savings for parents. One of the reasons for this is due to chronic underfunding and lack of investment in schools across the state.

“Any savings that are being made by parents as a result of the free schoolbook scheme are being swallowed up by an increase in so-called ‘voluntary contributions’ and digital devices. Schools are not receiving enough funding from the Department of Education and are forced to rely on parents and families to make up the difference.

“This summer, Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) received 3,340 calls from parents who cannot afford to keep up with back-to-school costs. Despite extending the Schoolbooks Scheme to senior cycle students, parents are being hit with additional expenses from schools.

“Though ‘voluntary contributions’ are supposed to be voluntary, many parents feel obliged or even forced to pay them to their child’s school. There is a fear, and in some cases a reality, that students who have not paid the voluntary contribution are treated differently to their classmates who have paid. Not paying this supposed ‘voluntary contribution’ can leave children without a school locker, journal, or other items.

“To be clear, schools are forced to rely on voluntary contributions because the government is failing to provide sufficient funds for costs such as heating, electricity and insurance. The pinch that is being felt by parents from these additional costs are a direct result of successive government’s failure to provide sufficient funding in our education system.

“The introduction of digital devices to hundreds of schools across the state has completely demolished any savings that the free schoolbook scheme had intended to provide. Some digital devices can cost over €800 per child, placing an enormous burden on parents who are financially struggling to keep their head above water.

“Minister McEntee intends to progress a Charter Bill to strengthen engagement between schools, parents and students on issues such as school costs. This is a token gesture. If you just listen to school principals, teachers, parents and students, it is quite clear that the overriding issue affecting our education system at this point in time is underinvestment in the sector.

“I strongly recommend that Minister McEntee listens to the concerns of parents who are really struggling with back-to-school costs. I urge the Minister to introduce a dedicated digital device fund to ensure children who cannot afford a device are not affected by the digital divide. Minister McEntee must also provide significant investment in the upcoming budget to ensure that our schools are adequately funded which, in turn, will reduce the heavy financial burden of school costs facing parents.”

Minister McEntee must establish fund to prevent parents falling into debt as 1 in 4 secondary schools move to digital devices – Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 27th August 2025, 15:12 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has urged Minister McEntee to establish a dedicated fund to prevent parents from falling deeper into debt as 1 in 4 secondary schools move to digital devices.

Deputy O’Rourke said it is no longer good enough for Minister McEntee to say that schools must manage this issue themselves. He said there are too many schools that have moved towards digital devices, the cost of which is now affecting too many families. There must be urgent government intervention and the establishment of a dedicated fund to support families that simply cannot afford a digital device for their child.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“The government’s approach to the digitalisation of our classrooms is fundamentally flawed and is placing an unacceptable and unsustainable financial burden on hundreds of families.

“While the integration of technology in education is a welcome and necessary development, the current model that is in place is creating a digital divide, where a child’s access to essential learning equipment is determined by their family’s income. Nothing about this approach is inclusive, fair, or equal.

“The cost of digital devices for students can reach up to €800, this is simply too high, particularly for parents who have more than one child in a school that uses these devices.

“The introduction of the free schoolbooks scheme is welcome and is a positive step to reducing the cost of education for parents. However, many of the parents who have contacted me that due to the cost of digital devices for their children, the cost of sending their child back to school has by no means become cheaper or more affordable since the introduction of the free schoolbooks scheme.

“Recent reports from Barnardo’s and the Irish League of Credit Unions have illustrated the vast amount of parents who fall into debt in order to cover the cost of sending their children back to school. It is no longer acceptable for Minister McEntee to say that schools must manage this issue themselves.

“It is obvious that there is a direction of travel in terms of education, and it is increasingly moving in the direction of digital devices. Therefore, there must be a response to this. A dedicated fund must be established to ensure that children whose families cannot afford these devices are not excluded from accessing this equipment.

“It is clear that some students will be disadvantaged or possibly even ostracised if parents are unable to provide the device for school. This is something I have seen within my own constituency of Meath East, where I have heard of children who come from disadvantaged backgrounds and cannot afford this equipment are at the back of the classroom with no digital devices.

“Minister McEntee, when this issue was brought up, referenced a circular, dating back to 2017, which outlines measures for schools to keep costs down for parents and advises the purchase of ‘generic devices’. However, there must be more substance within the circular that reflects the reality of 2025. That is why this circular must be updated to reflect the increased number of schools using digital devices to date.

“If Minister McEntee is genuinely serious about equality in education, she must act now to establish a dedicated fund in order to prevent children from being excluded from accessing these tools that will assist them in their education and learning. If this situation is left as is, and there is no financial support for families in need, many children will be left behind or many parents will be pushed into financial hardship.

“There needs to be measures taken to ensure that people from a disadvantaged background don’t slip through the cracks and get left behind. I urge Minister McEntee to update the circular from 2017 and to establish a dedicated fund to assist families with the cost of digital devices.”

40,000 children left on crèche waiting lists due to lack of adequate investment ‘utterly shocking’ –Darren O’Rourke TD

Monday 25th August 2025, 17:11 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has called for the government to take the issue of childcare and early years education with seriousness, highlighting the need for significant investment in the sector in this year’s budget.

Deputy O’Rourke said this is a crisis that is affecting thousands of families right across the state, if we do not see any major changes in the funding of this sector, the problem will continue to worsen, and more children will be left on lengthy waiting lists.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“The shocking statistic that 40,000 children are stuck on lengthy crèche waiting lists is a damning indictment of this government’s failure to grasp the scale of the childcare crisis.

“Behind these staggering numbers are tens of thousands of parents, predominantly women, unable to return to work, and tens of thousands of children being denied access to the vital early learning that sets them up for the next stages of life.

“There are 7,000 children under the age of one waiting for a place in a crèche, meanwhile there are only 97 available places of this type in the state. The numbers for different age groups all tell the same story, there is simply not enough supply to meet the demand.

“One of the contributing factors to this issue is that of pay and conditions for our early year’s educators and staff. Every year the early years education sector loses talented and good people due to poor pay and conditions. The early years education sector has faced years of neglect, the compensation for staff falls short of the professional wages needed to retain qualified staff.

“In my own constituency of Meath East, I am regularly contacted by constituents who are struggling to find a place for their child in a local crèche. In many cases, factors such as a child’s sibling already being enrolled in the same crèche or a child who has been on the list since before they were born, is still not enough to secure a place. The statistics that were just released show that capacity is a problem facing towns and villages right across the state.

“I commend the advocacy organisation, Early Childhood Ireland, in their efforts to urge this government to increase the pay and conditions for early years and school age care graduates. This is one of the major concerns that must be addressed in this year’s budget, particularly if Minister Foley wants to retain such valuable educators and staff while also reducing the number of children on waiting lists for a crèche place.

“The government cannot step back and ignore this problem or continue to push the blame on to individual employers. It has rightly been said that the government is the primary funder of the sector. The issues of losing staff and not having capacity in crèches is not isolated to one town or village, it is presenting itself across the state, there must be a change of attitude from government in their approach to resolving this issue.

“I urge Minister Foley and the government to take this issue seriously and work with all stakeholders to significantly increase funding in this year’s budget to allow for the retention and recruitment of childcare educators and staff, to increase capacity to meet the demand, and crucially to reduce the shocking number of children sitting on waiting lists.”

Navan Cllr Welcomes Decision to Provide Advocates for Children in Family Court Hearings

Wednesday 20th August 2025, 12:21 pm

A pilot scheme introduced to allow children, whose parents are going through divorce, custody or access court hearings have their own independent advocates, is a long overdue but positive step.

That’s according to Aontú Cllr for Navan, Emer Tóibín who says,

“This is very welcome news. At present, there is huge inconsistency in how judges hear or consider a child’s voice in family legal proceedings. This variance leaves too much to chance and must be replaced with a clear, consistent standard across the board.

For too long, children have been left voiceless in cases that profoundly shape their lives.Any upheaval or change is seismic in a child’s life.By providing an independent advocate, we are taking a vital step towards ensuring that children are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. Their views must be properly heard and represented, not overlooked or sidelined.

“This reform is long overdue — but it is a positive and important move,” “Children deserve to have their voices heard in the most serious decisions that affect them. Aontú will continue to stand up for children, working to ensure their rights and best interests are always at the very heart of decision-making in our justice system.”

Government failure to implement school transport review leaves children without bus seats – Darren O’Rourke TD

Monday 18th August 2025, 12:04 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has said the failure by government to implement recommendations from the review of the school transport scheme means that a children in Co. Meath and across the state have been denied a place on their local school bus this year.

The review of the school transport scheme took three years to complete and was published in February 2024, almost 18 months ago. One of the main recommendations was to reduce the ‘nearest school’ distance criteria.

It was recommended that, from September 2025, this would be reduced from 3.2km to 1km for primary schools and from 4.8km to 2km for secondary schools. However, this recommendation will not be introduced this year. As a result, children across the state have been denied a place on their local school bus.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

"Every year, children are denied a place on their local school bus due to arbitrary, and incredibly frustrating, ‘eligible/concessionary’ criteria. Now, parents in Meath and across the state are in desperation because their children have been left without a seat – all because the government has failed to act.

"These criteria were supposed to change this year in line with the recommendations of the School Transport Scheme review. This would have shifted many children from ‘concessionary’ to ‘eligible’ and opened the scheme up to additional pupils. Instead, because of inaction from Minister McEntee, children are paying the price.

"We waited three years for the review to be completed, but 18 months after its publication, there’s still no meaningful change. We have a tiny number of pilot studies (14 pilots out of a network of 10,600 routes); we have consultants appointed, and we have working groups set up – but no real action for families who need solutions now.

"September 2025 should have marked a step-change in school transport, in line with the review’s recommendations. It should have meant more children across the state safely accessing their local school bus. Instead, they’re locked out of the scheme due to government delays.

"In Meath, there are particular issues in North Meath on routes to O'Carolan College and National Schools in Moynalty and Wilkinstown. I know from talking to colleagues that it is a similar picture elsewhere. It is incredibly frustrating for parents and leaves them with a major headache. It turns plans upside down and in some cases, it leaves parents, usually mothers, wondering if they will have to give up their job to make things work.

“The Minister has failed to prepare, failed to act, and failed to implement her own department’s review. With schools reopening next week, this needs to be addressed urgently. The Minister must intervene to ensure that every child who needs a bus seat gets one. The time for reviews is over – now it’s time for delivery."

Peanut Allergies - Cllr Stephen Stokes

Thursday 14th August 2025, 12:11 pm

A parent led campaign is seeking to support children with peanut allergies. Specifically they are calling for the availability of Palforzia, a ground-breaking tre atment for children living with a peanut allergy, in Ireland. Cllr Stephen Stokes is urging the Government, the Department of Health and the HSE to review this proposal without delay. Cllr Stokes recently met with Catherine Dolan from the campaign to discuss the matter in detail. Cllr Stephen Stokes stated: "I am grateful to Catherine Dolan for highlighting this vital issue. I would urge a swift review of this matter with haste."

Palforzia is the first and only approved medicine for the treatment of peanut allergy in children aged 1 to 17 years. Already available in several countries, the therapy gradually exposes patients to small, controlled amounts of peanut protein, reducing the severity of allergic reactions in the event of accidental exposure. Cllr Stokes added: “At present, families in Ireland dealing with peanut allergy have very few options beyond constant vigilance and emergency care. This causes daily anxiety for parents, who just want their children to be safe. They must check every food label, and avoid social situations, all while living in fear of life threatening reactions."

Palforzia offers real hope for a safer, more normal life for these children. Peanut allergies affect 20,0000 children across Ireland. It is one of the most common causes of severe allergic reactions in young people. For many families, even trace exposure can trigger anaphylaxis, requiring urgent hospital treatment. The parent led campaign is calling on the HSE and Department of Health to fast-track access to Palforzia through reimbursement and integration into paediatric allergy care nationwide. Cllr Stokes concluded: “This product is available through the NHS in the UK, so it is is not a radical request. If it helps to save lives, then it should be looked at very closely. Irish children should not be left behind. I am proud to stand with parents who are seeking safety for their children."

The campaign group is encouraging members of the public to contact their local representatives to show support for access to the treatment.

Proposed early childhood care and education extension a drop in the ocean compared to wave of unmet commitments and systemic failures– Darren O’Rourke TD

Monday 11th August 2025, 15:41 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has welcomed the proposed one-hour extension for children availing of free pre-school education but stressed that major systemic failures in the early childhood care and education (ECCE) programme remain.

Deputy O’Rourke said that while any measure offering financial relief to families and developmental benefits for children is welcome, this announcement cannot obscure the government’s glaring failures on their own programme for government commitments.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“While any measure of offering financial relief to families and developmental benefits for children is welcome, this proposed one hour extension is a drop in the ocean compared to the sheer scale of unmet commitments and systemic failures in early years care and education.

“It is evident that one additional hour a day will have a positive impact on the learning and development for children in pre-school. Many parents whose children receive an additional 2 hours a day believe that their children day are miles ahead of those who stay until midday. This underscores the urgent need for investment in this area and for the rollout of this proposed extension to commence immediately.

“The programme for government commits to reducing childcare to €200 per month. I have seen very few measures taken to ensure that this is fulfilled. Parents are struggling with the increasing costs of childcare, with many contemplating the decision to go back to work or remain at home as they struggle with the out-of-control cost of living crisis.

“Other parents face the dilemma of trying to find a creche or preschool that has the capacity to cater for their children. In my own constituency of Meath East, there is a major shortage of spaces in childcare facilities and preschools, many parents must battle to get a place for their child. Waiting lists are years long and growing.

“The proposed extensions of an additional hour a day will naturally increase demand in pre-school services, yet the government has failed to outline or prepare for how they are going to provide the staff or places for children to cater for this increased capacity.

“The early years education sector haemorrhages talent due to poor pay and conditions. Educators and staff in the early years sector have faced years of neglect and the compensation falls far short of the professional wages needed to retain qualified staff and ensure quality.

“Minister Foley’s proposal lacks ambition and sidesteps the fundamental problems. The proposal scratches the surface, while the core issues facing the sector is unaffordability for many families, unsustainability for providers and inaccessibility for hundreds of children.

“Sinn Féin has committed to tackling the problems facing the early years education sector head on. That is why we have budgeted to provide affordable childcare at €10 a day. We need an early year’s education system that works for early years educators and families alike.

“I urge Minister Foley to start adequately investing in early years education, provide additional capacity to cater for more children, provide an incentive for staff to work in this sector and to urgently introduce this one-hour extension of free pre-school without delay.”

MEATH CLLR ASKS COLLEGUES ON COUNCIL TO COME TOGETHER AND NOMINATE A CANDIDATE IN UPCOMING PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Wednesday 30th July 2025, 08:50 am

A Navan Councillor has written to all her colleagues on Meath County Council asking that they all join together to nominate a candidate in the upcoming Presidential Election.

Aontú Councillor Emer Tóibín says

“The Presidential Election is fast approaching. Currently it looks like there are only two candidates in the race, Catherine Connolly and Mairéad McGuinness. Both are able candidates; however, if the election campaign consists of just these two candidates, it will make for a very one-dimensional campaign.

30% to 40% of the population will find that their issues, concerns and values are not part of the presidential election campaign or represented in the Áras.

As councillors, we are afforded the responsibility to nominate a candidate for consideration. This is an important opportunity that merits our thoughtful participation. We have the ability to recommend a person to take the office of President of our country for the forthcoming seven-year term.

Currently a number of good people are engaging with smaller parties and independents. My worry is that this approach, which with respect is haphazard with no direction, will see no movement on this front. I suggest that councillors join together to create a nominating caucus on this council. Similar initiatives are being taken in other councils. We should allow credible people to make a pitch to us in terms of candidacy and then we vote by PR STV ( Single Transfer Vote) who is the best candidate to run for president. We should then as a group nominate the winner of that process. It should be a fully voluntary process.

Cllr Tóibín says

“I am really excited at the prospect of my colleagues potentially supporting me on this and I look forward to advancing it without delay as time is of the essence”.

NEW ONLINE SAFETY CODE DOESN’T GO FAR ENOUGH - Cllr Emer Tóibín

Friday 25th July 2025, 17:55 pm

AONTÚ CLLR ASKS WHY HER PARTY’S CONSISTENT EFFORTS TO HAVE BILL, SEEKING TO MAKE THE ONLINE PROVISION OF PORNOGRAPHY BY INTERNET COMPANIES TO CHILDREN ILLEGAL, HAVE FACEDSUCHOPPOSITION FROM GOVERNMENT

Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín has voiced serious concern that the newly introduced 'Online Safety Code', which came into effect on July 21st, still falls “woefully short of fully protecting children from explicit and violent material online”.

Pointing out that while it is encouraging to see legal obligations for online platforms finally being enacted, the Navan Cllr says the Code’s reach is disappointingly limited and leaves many children at risk from exposure to ‘wholly inappropriate to say the least material’.

She says

“It is a step forward to have some legal safeguards in place, but the reality is these measures remain very limited and significant gaps persist,” said Cllr Tóibín. “For example, major platforms such as Snapchat escape regulation because their headquarters are outside Ireland, even though Snapchat is heavily used by young people here. There is no justification that I can see for why the algorithms—designed to relentlessly push disturbing and graphic content to children—are not covered by this Code.”

She further highlighted the party’s ongoing campaign to strengthen online child protection. “Aontú has consistently fought for the passage of our Online Pornography Bill in the Dáil, legislation that would make it illegal for internet companies to provide pornographic material to children. Despite repeated efforts and sustained advocacy, this bill has faced persistent opposition from the Government.”

“Meanwhile, deeply harmful content, including so-called ‘snuff videos’ showing real acts of violence, continues to circulate online. Such material is distressing even for adults; let alone the lasting damage it can inflict on children. Parents are overwhelmed and often powerless; even those who try to limit device access struggle to shield their children from these dangers as their peers may show it to them,” she stated.

“This is precisely why it is so urgent that our laws fully address the insidious and pervasive nature of this content, and why Aontú will continue to champion stronger protections in the Dáil,” Cllr Tóibín concluded.

Credit Union back-to-school survey highlights urgent need for cost-of living package - Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 16th July 2025, 11:08 am

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, says an Irish League of Credit Union (ILCU) survey showing that one in three families are being forced into debt due to back-to-school costs highlights, further, the urgent need for the government to introduce a cost-of-living package for hard-pressed families.

The ILCU survey had 730 respondents and found that the number of families taking out loans to cover back-to-school costs has tripled to 12%.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“This survey undertaken by the ILCU found that one in three families will be forced into debt to send their children back to school this Autumn. This is shocking and shows the stark reality of the cost-of-living crisis.

“The average cost of sending a child back to school will be €1,450 for primary school parents and €1,560 for secondary school parents – up by €364 and €159, respectively, on 2024. Many parents have more than one child in school which doubles or triples that cost.

“In addition, 35% of parents said that they are forced to deny their children at least one back to school item. Most said that new gym gear is the item most likely to be missed.

“To add pressure to parent’s financial strains, the ILCU survey also found that 78% of schools ask for a so-called ‘voluntary’ contribution. These are often an essential measures for schools to make ends meet and to fill the ever-increasing gap in government funding, estimated to be in the region of €25,000 per primary school.

“It’s a similar picture at secondary level. Government must increase investment in our school system to match increasing costs in insurance, energy, electricity and elsewhere, and they should enact Sinn Féin’s Voluntary Contributions Bill to regulate this practice.

“It is time for this government to acknowledge the cost-of-living crisis and to respond to it with a cost-of-living package. In relation to schools, they point to free school books and hot school meals. While definitely welcome, it’s clear these measures do not go far enough to protect families from the increasing costs of education.

“What we need now is adequate investment in our schools and a cost-of-living package to support parents and families. I urge Minister McEntee and her government colleagues to heed the growing list of alarms and to implement a support package for parents and schools to help alleviate financial burden.”

Teacher supply crisis continues unabated under Minister McEntee – Darren O’Rourke TD

Monday 07th July 2025, 14:16 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has said the teacher supply crisis will likely get worse in Dublin and other urban areas due to the cost-of-living crisis, extortionate rents and the delayed implementation of the ‘Timebound Provision’.

Deputy O’Rourke was commenting on an article in the Irish Times which highlights that 1,800 teaching posts are still vacant for the upcoming school term.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“There has been a serious lack of action from Minister McEntee and this government to prioritise filling vacant teaching roles.

“We know that the main reason schools in Dublin and other urban areas are struggling to fill teaching posts is because of extortionate rent prices in these areas. Many teachers, particularly newly qualified teachers, simply cannot afford to pay rent in Dublin and similar urban areas.

“Now, this government’s stubborn refusal to provide a cost-of-living package this year, is going to put teachers, schools and parents under even more financial pressure.

“Teacher unions have said that the supply crisis is being accentuated by the affordability of the profession for new entrants and unsustainable workloads. 1,228 of the 1,800 unfilled posts are in primary schools.

“Supersized classrooms have become widespread across the state with teachers being expected to work in overcrowded classrooms with little to no support. It is no wonder that there is a supply crisis when teachers are on the verge of burnout and feel a lack of support from the Department of Education.

“One measure that could have minimised the teacher supply crisis is the implementation of the timebound provision under the revised Teaching Council (Registration) Regulations.

“This provision is a temporary pathway designed specifically to assist teachers who have qualified outside of the state to register with the Teaching Council and complete their induction quicker.

“This provision was expected to be open for applications for Q1 of 2025. It was then pushed back to Q2 and is still unopen with recent responses suggesting it may be open in Q3 of the year.

“There are many teachers contacting me who have been unable to take a job in a school due to the delay in the implementation of this provision.

“There are teachers here who want to be teaching, but it has become increasingly difficult for so many, particularly those who didn’t study in the state.

“Comments from Minister for Higher Education, James Lawless TD, last week indicated that college fees will be pushed back up to €3000 this coming academic year. This hike in fees could prevent people from pursuing teaching in college, or push people to study abroad where fees, rent and the cost of living may be more affordable.

“Those students who do study abroad and choose to return to teach in our schools will be met with difficulty and delays with becoming registered with the Teaching Council. We already know that 13,540 unqualified individuals were employed in primary and post primary schools in 2023/2024. This must change.

“Other measures such as the teaching hours extension scheme which allows teachers on full teaching contracts to substitute up to an additional 35 hours per term have been implemented. Minister McEntee has said these are not long-term solutions but that she will continue to assist schools in accessing qualified teaching for the students in their schools.

“These words are completely hollow unless we see concrete action being taken by the Minister to address the cost-of-living crisis facing teachers in Dublin and other urban centres. The Minister must also work to get the timebound provision application open urgently, and to protect the supply of future teachers by reducing student fees.

“These vacancies need to be addressed immediately for schools to have adequate staff for reopening in September. I am again urging this government to treat this matter seriously and work to address these issues swiftly.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes Welcomes Application for New Coast Guard Station in Greystones

Friday 4th July 2025, 10:24 am

Cllr Stephen Stokes has welcomed the submission of a pre-validation planning application for a new, purpose-built Coast Guard Station at Greystones Harbour. It has been submitted by The Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland. It marks a major step forward for local emergency response infrastructure. The long-awaited development has been on the agenda for over 15 years and could provide vital, modern facilities to support lifesaving rescue operations along the Wicklow coastline.

The proposed facility would consist of a single-storey boathouse and vehicle store with a flat roof, alongside a single-storey accommodation block with a mono-pitch roof. The building will cover a combined floor area of 257 square metres, with a maximum roof height of 7.8 metres above the adjacent public space. Cllr Stokes stated: “This is a project that I have campaigned for since the days of Greystones Town Council. It is a positive development to see it progress to the planning stage. However there is a bit to go, so hopefully this will be a new dawn, not another false dawn. Greystones is home to a dedicated Coast Guard unit, and it is simply unacceptable that they’ve had to operate for so long without appropriate facilities. This new station could provide an essential boost to the infrastructure that they need to save lives.”

The new development would enable more efficient emergency responses by providing secure, weatherproof storage for rescue vehicles and boats, along with essential crew facilities. It is expected to greatly enhance the operational capacity of the local Coast Guard team, which plays a critical role in responding to marine incidents and coastal emergencies. Cllr Stokes added: “We are indebted to all of our emergency services, including the Coast Guard. This development is about public safety. Every minute counts in an emergency, and this station will make a real difference when it matters most. The people of Greystones deserve this investment, and our Coast Guard team deserve our full support.”

The pre-validation planning application has now been submitted. Submissions can be made to Wicklow County Council until July 31st, 2025.

FINALLY! Slane Bypass Approved - Long Overdue Relief for Slane Residents and Meath Commuters

Tuesday 1st July 2025, 12:20 pm

Decades of tireless campaigning, relentless advocacy and countless meetings have finally borne fruit with the granting of approval for the Slane Bypass.

Aontú Cllr Emer says

“This is incredibly welcome news. Slane is historic and beautiful, but it isa VILLAGEand was wholly unsuitable for the huge volumes of traffic going through it. It was a deadly dangerous situation and sadly, lives were lost and irreparably changed through accidents.

Anytime I canvassed the area I was inundated with concerns from residents, and it was really their number one concern.

An estimated 17,000 vehicles trudge daily through the village via the N2 and N52, a staggering load for such a small, rural area. Anyone who has spent even a short time in

Slane will know how deeply unsuitable and dangerous this situation has been.

The approved project includes a 3.5km dual carriageway bypass, along with a 258-metre-long bridge over the River Boyne. Crucially, this will reroute heavy traffic away from the village, allowing Slane to regain its safety, tranquillity, and heritage charm.

Crucially, safety and peacewill now be restored, not only for motorists, but also for cyclists, pedestrians, visitors and residents who have long had to contend with noise, danger, and disruption.

This is not just a victory for Slane, it’s a huge development for Meath commuters, who according to the most recent census are the most hard-pressed in the country when it comes to journey times. Aontú has been fighting for the Navan Rail Line for years and years, so we are all too familiar with ‘commuter hell’.

This Slane bypass will bring significant reductions in both commuting times and fuel costs for thousands who rely on these key routes every day.

This is a day to celebrate a long-awaited step forward for Slane and for Meath and the next step in the process can’t come fast enough.

Minister McEntee must abandon plans to redesignate MGLD special schools - Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 25th June 2025, 10:40 am

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has called for an immediate reversal of plans to redesignate special schools for children with mild general learning disabilities.

Deputy O’Rourke says the Minister for Education must halt plans to review the designation of special schools as it has been made clear that sending children with mild general learning disabilities (MGLD) to mainstream schools would be detrimental to their learning and development.

Speaking today, Teachta O’Rourke said:

“The Minister’s intention to redesignate MGLD resources will have an adverse effect on children. This decision would see many children with MGLD left with no alternative but to attend mainstream schools which would have a negative effect on their learning and development.

“History has shown us that children who have MGLD fall behind in mainstream school. These children require additional learning supports and time. The intention to redesignate MGLD supports will cause major strains and stress on school communities and will, of course, have an adverse impact on children with MGLD. There are serious concerns that children with MGLD may slip through the cracks in a mainstream school.

“There are 30 special schools catering for over 3,000 children with MGLD across the state. They benefit very significantly from the supportive setting. It makes no sense to change this approach now. Redesignations of special schools will have a serious effect on future generations of students with MGLD.

“This news of redesignation is already causing anxiety for students, parents, and school communities. I have had many calls and emails from school staff and parents urging this decision to be reversed due to the negative impacts it will have for their students and children.

“Parents of children with MGLD have told me how they have seen their children’s confidence and academics come on leaps and bounds in these special schools. We must continue to increase investment for these children and schools in order to provide an equal education for children with MGLD.

“I urge Minister McEntee to abandon her plan to redesignate MGLD resources due to the effect that it would have on children’s learning and development.

“We all recognise that there is a shortage of places for children with complex needs. The solution is to provide more spaces for those children not instead of places for children with MGLD but in addition to them. The Minister should abandon her plan.”

Ní Mhurchú to challenge legal basis of EU trade with Israel

Monday 23rd June 2025, 09:43 am

Ireland South MEP, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, a member of the EU Parliament’s Petitions Committee, has launched a formal petition to the European Parliament calling on the European Commission and Council to review Israel’s compliance with the human rights clause (Article 2) of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and determine whether continued trade with Israel remains compatible with EU law. She has also raised a legal query as to whether any EU arms sales to Israel are now compatible with EU law.

The formal petition asking the EU Commission and EU Council to investigate technical breaches of EU law in trading with and selling arms to Israel has been supported and co-signed by 27 Irish Senior Counsel and Barristers.

The petition submitted by Ní Mhurchú, a former barrister, requires the EU Commission and Council of Europe to….

• Assess the impact of recent military actions on EU-funded humanitarian projects and aid infrastructure in Gaza, and request a report from the EU Commission on how EU funds have been protected, obstructed, or destroyed.
• Ensure that the EU’s Common Position on arms exports is being properly applied, particularly with regard to the prohibition on transfers that may facilitate violations of international humanitarian law.
• Encourage the creation of a monitoring mechanism under the European External Action Service (EEAS) to ensure that EU-funded humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza is protected and fully aligned with EU humanitarian principles.

Ní Mhurchú says she is horrified at what is happening in Gaza and says she is using this legal mechanism to attempt to force the EU Commission into a suspension of trade with Israel and more importantly to force an end to EU arms shipments to Israel. Ní Mhurchú said she wants to hold the EU Commission accountable for their inaction on Israeli breaches of international law, but more importantly she wants to hold EU authorities accountable for specific breaches of EU law.

“Like most other right thinking people, I am horrified at what is happening in Gaza and feel powerless. I have continually lobbied the EU Commission and Ursula Von Der Leyen directly for a suspension of the EU/Israel trade agreement on the basis that Israel is violating human rights clauses in that agreement. We cannot trade with a regime that kills women and children with impunity. Now, we are trying the legal route to stop trade with Israel.

A European Parliament petition is a formal mechanism, recognised by the EU Treaties, where complaints, issues or questions of law can be brought up in a formal hearing setting where the EU Parliament, MEPs, and the EU Commission are in attendance. Such a Petition will force the EU Commission to answer and address a number of technical legal questions on the situation in Gaza, namely,

1. Is the continuation of the EU/Israel trade agreement compatible with EU law?
2. Is Israel interfering with EU aid and aid infrastructure and if so, what is the Commission planning to do on this?
3. Are any arms transfers to Israel from the EU in compliance with EU law?

The Petition, if accepted by the secretariat of the Petitions committee, will have a full hearing on the floor of the European Parliament in Brussels where EU Commission officials will have to answer very specific questions of law around our continued trade with Israel.

Ban them or cater for them – but stop ignoring illegally parked campervans

Thursday 19th June 2025, 12:48 pm

Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, a leading member of the EU Tourism Taskforce, has called on local authorities across Ireland to grant more planning permissions for facilities for campervans or invest in municipal campervan parks where no private facilities exist.

Ní Mhurchú has accused local authorities of putting their head in the sand when it comes to the regulation of, and opportunity provided by, camper van tourism.

Ní Mhurchú says that Ireland is way behind the rest of Europe when it comes to facilities for campervans. According to Ní Mhurchú, it is leading to a situation where campervans are parking illegally by our beaches and in public car parks annoying local residents in our coastal communities and causing friction.

“I would like to see more planning permissions given to camping and caravan parks and more supports for private existing campsites. Where no private facilities exist, local authorities should invest in modern basic facilities for campervan tourists that will allow them to dispose of waste, have showers, get water and power. Charge them a small fee for using these municipal camper van parks and reinvest that money back into the park”

According to Ní Mhurchú, illegally parked campervans are an eyesore at our beaches,

“Where are those campervans dumping their waste, grey water, sewerage and where are they getting water and sanitation?”

Camper van tourists spend money in the local restaurant, the local shop and buy groceries in the local supermarket. They are a valuable part of our tourism offering and we should have specific facilities that they can use and stay in the area.

Ní Mhurchú emphasised that she is only advocating for municipal facilities to be provided where existing private campsites do not exist.

Ní Mhurchú will raise the issue with EU Tourism chief, EU Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas when she meets with him in July. She will ask the EU Commissioner to consider EU funding supports to build these basic campervan facilities across Europe so that we can encourage a sustainable form of tourism that will reap rewards for coastal communities across Ireland and the EU.

Campervan culture has exploded since Covid as it becomes an increasingly popular way for Europeans to holiday. Travelling by road can be a more sustainable approach to exploration and adventure.

Aontú All-Ireland Presidential Voting Rights Bill passes first stage in the Dáil - Tóibín

Wednesday 18th June 2025, 09:54 pm

Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín has today moved the First Stage of the Forty-first Amendment of the Constitution (Voting Rights in Presidential Elections) Bill 2025, which will extend Presidential voting rights to citizens in the North.

Speaking after the Bill passed its First Stage, the Meath West TD said:

"The purpose of the Aontú Bill is to ensure that all adult citizens living in Ireland, north and south are entitled under law to vote in a Presidential election.

Shockingly, an Irish citizen in the north can stand in a presidential election, win a presidential election, be the president of Ireland, but can’t vote in a presidential election. Imagine the joy that Irish citizens in the north of Ireland would experience, if for 1st time since 1918, they could democratically participate as equal Irish citizens in an all-Ireland election. That they currently cannot means we are operating a two-tier citizenship.

This is not a zero-sum proposal. Affording Irish citizens the right to vote in the north does not remove one right from our Unionist brothers and sisters.

I understand that all political parties in the South have at one time or another stated that they support the right of Irish citizens in the north of Ireland to vote in presidential elections. Yet, it is the Irish Government that is withholding democratic rights from 700,000 Irish people in the North. That is shocking. It is anti-democratic.

We are now putting legislation into action to right an historic wrong.

It's not within the power of Westminster nor Stormont. Neither has the power to grant this right to Irish citizens. This is in the gift of the Dáil and so we are acting here.

Opinion polls show that the vast majority of Irish people in the south of Ireland favour a referendum on a united Ireland.

This Bill facilitates a real and practical step towards democratic self-determination.

The Aontú proposal is not unusual. In many countries – including European countries such as France and Poland – citizens of the state who are not resident in the jurisdiction, can still vote in presidential elections. On foot of Aontú announcing this bill, Sinn Féin tabled a non-binding motion in Stormont calling for the same objective.

The motion was carried with a majority of elected of MLAs in Stormont. This is significant. The polls indicate that the majority of Irish people are in favour of this Bill. The majority of parties here in the Dáil say that they support the objective and a majority of MLAs voted to support the objective.

Yet there has been no progress - I believe that this is due to party politics. I believe that party self-interest is eclipsing the national interest.

In working towards the re-introduction of this Bill, I contacted all Party Leaders to ask them to co-sign it as we wanted to make it a cross-party issue. Two parties replied, Independent Ireland, who co-signed the Bill and the Green Party, which said that they will support it. No other party replied, not even Sinn Féin.

As this Bill progresses through the Dáil, it will require time and it will require votes. We are again today calling on all those parties who have said they would support this important Bill to openly do so, and together we can re-enfranchise those in the North who wish to vote for their Head of State."

Prioritising phone pouches at a time when schools are struggling to cover basic costs is madness - Darren O’Rourke TD

Friday 13th June 2025, 14:54 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has criticised the government’s instruction given to non-fee charging schools that funding of €25 per student is to be spent solely on phone pouches at a time when so many schools are struggling to pay their running costs.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“It is complete madness that non-fee charging schools are being allocated €25 per pupil for mobile phone storage solutions while they are struggling to pay their most basic bills.

“This policy is a slap in the face to principals, teachers, SNAs and parents who are confronting shortages in special needs supports, dated and crumbling infrastructure, and increased running costs.

“The Department of Education’s decision to prioritise phone storage, instead of providing educational resources and funding speaks volumes about its skewed priorities. Schools are fundraising for essentials like heating, insurance costs and modern resources, to prioritise phone pouches is utterly baffling.

“Minister McEntee needs to start listening to the real concerns from principals and teachers. This funding would be better served on improving run down infrastructure and investing in modern technology and resources for students.

“I urge Minister McEntee to reverse this wasteful policy and to prioritise the bigger issues facing schools.”

4,020 families in Meath to benefit from Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance – Senator Linda Nelson Murray

Wednesday 11th June 2025, 12:13 pm

Families across Meath will be supported with the cost of sending their children back to school, said a Fine Gael Senator

Senator Linda Nelson said €54.4 million has been secured nationally for the scheme this year to help eligible families.

“The Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance provides a really important once-off payment to the 4,020 eligible families in Meath towards the cost of school clothing and footwear.

“The rate of payment for 2025 is €160 for children aged 4 - 11 and €285 for children aged 12 years and over in second level education. It will be paid during the week beginning 14^thJuly and majority of payments will be paid automatically with no application required.

“I know the pressure families can be under with back-to-school costs, and this allowance will go a long way in helping people.

“I urge all families to check their eligibility for this important scheme and encourage any family who do not receive notification from the Department of an automated payment to make an application online onwww.MyWelfare.ie.

“The Scheme itself is extremely important in terms of easing that financial burden associated with the purchase of uniforms and shoes ahead of the new school term.Fine Gael are deeply conscious of the need to continue to support families”, concluded Senator Linda Nelson Murray

€427,643 in funding for social housing stock in Meath – Senator Linda Nelson Murray

Monday 09th June 2025, 11:37 am

€427,643 in funding for social housing will help address the needs of older people, people with a disability and overcrowding, said a Fine Gael Senator.

Senator Linda Nelson Murray said €23m in funding is being provided for local authorities across Ireland to carry out adaptations, extensions and other improvements to their existing social housing stock.

“I am delighted to see that €427,643 has been allocated for Meath. This funding will help improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities.

“It will also help tackle overcrowding in social housing and offer an alternative for those currently living in overcrowded private accommodation.

“This Disabled Persons Grant ensures homes are adapted to allow older people and those with disabilities to continue living independently, while also addressing overcrowding.

“This scheme funds essential home modifications for people with mobility or disability needs. These include minor adaptations like stair-lifts, ramps, and grab rails, larger projects such as extensions to reduce overcrowding as well as creating accessible spaces like a downstairs bedroom, en-suite, or wet-room.

“These grants so important for meeting the needs of local authority tenants and those awaiting social housing in Meath and play a key role in enabling people with disabilities to continue living autonomously.

“Fine Gael is committed to enabling older and disabled people to continue to live independently”, concluded Senator Linda Nelson Murray

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Workers’ Rights, Deputy Johnny Guirke, Calls for Worker Protections and Consultation Amid Wellman’s’ Examinership

Wednesday 4th June 2025, 11:31 am

Sinn Féin TD Johnny Guirke has called for the urgent need to protect workers’ rights during the examinership process at Wellman’s in Mullagh. Deputy Guirke attended a briefing this morning with management to discuss the process of examinership as the company navigates this challenging period, it is vital that workers are not left vulnerable and that their voices are fully heard along with their unions.

The company employs 217 people and is the largest European producer of recycled polyester fibres. It began operations in Mullagh in March 1973, and the site was acquired by Indorama Ventures in 2011. The company has reported losses in the double-digit millions across 2023 and 2024, driven by increased energy prices following geopolitical conflicts and fierce competition from low-priced imports from China, Africa, and the Middle East.

Reacting to the news, Sinn Féin TD Johnny Guirke stated:

"The news of Wellman’s entering examinership is concerning for all workers involved. During such uncertain times, workers must be at the heart of any decision-making process. They deserve full transparency, meaningful consultation, and assurances that their rights and livelihoods will be protected."

He continued:

"The government must step up and provide robust support to ensure that workers are looked after are not sacrificed in the pursuit of corporate restructuring. It is essential that every effort is made to safeguard jobs and uphold workers’ rights throughout this examinership process."

Deputy Guirke has also called on the Ministers for Enterprise and Social Protection, urging their immediate intervention. He calls on the government to support the workers, facilitate their consultation, and ensure that their interests are prioritized during this critical period.

Deputy Guirke stated ‘Myself and my colleagues in Sinn Féin stand in solidarity with the workers at Wellman’s and all employees facing uncertainty.

ReUnity of Ireland and accountability in Government at Aontú’s Ard Fheis

Wednesday 28th May 2025, 08:25 am

The reunification of Ireland, neutrality, housing, crime and justice,disabilityand healthcare services, together with the ongoing chaotic mismanagement of immigration were all centre stage atAontú’sweekend Ard Fheis.

The event, the 5^th since the party’s foundation in 2019 took place in GormanstownCo. Meath.

Meath is constituency of party leader, Deputy Peadar Tóibín and Cllrs Emer Tóibín and Dave Boyne.

Hundreds of delegates debated more than 140 motions, deciding and voting on new policy across a wide range of pressing local and national issues.

On foot of the Ard Fheis Cllr Emer Tóibín who represents MeathEast says

“Our focus as always is on constructive solutions and a clear path forward. Speakers and members alike contributed ideas groundedin reality anddriven by a deep desire to see real change in Irish life and governance. Delegate after delegate offered a frank and thorough critique of government inertia and mismanagement, evidenced by the scandal of homelessness in a country awash with money, the spectre of little children waiting in agony for long promised scoliosis treatments while others have undergone painful and unnecessary hip surgery, the billions spent on IPAS accommodation, the children’s hospital which is increasingly like the Irish mythological island of Hy-Brasilas it’s becoming more and more distant as time goes on; the glaring lack of accountability is strangling our people. We are constantly saying that if there are no serious consequences for Government ineptitude and its cavalier and autocratic attitude, people are doomed to have to put up with much less than they deserve”.

We persevere with a can-do work ethic underpinned by common sense — a hallmark of our movement. This is evident in our growing, country-wide activism, with 68 active Cumann operating north and south. Membership is increasing steadily, and more young candidates are stepping forward to contest elections at both local and national level.

Aontú’sgrowing membership reflects a broad cross-section of Irish political life, made up of former members of FiannaFáil, Sinn Féin, Fine Gael, Independents, Greens and many who are entirely new to politics. For many, the lack of a candidate to vote for in recent elections has been a compelling motivation for getting involved. Disenchantment and cynicism have taken a strong hold of the public mood. Aontú is here to offer a hopeful and viable alternative. We are possibly the best example of true pluralism in Irish politics today”.

The energy and passion at last Saturday’s Ard Fheiswastruly fantastic and heartwarming. What stood out most was the genuine desire and determination to improve people’s lives. That commitment is real. It's on the ground, rooted in our communities. Aontú is building something different, something honest, and something urgently needed”.

It’s remarkable to think of what we have achieved in five short years and it can only get better for all.

Minister McEntee must not ignore science teachers’ concerns on Leaving Cert reform - Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 14th May 2025, 12:35 pm

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, says Minister McEntee must not ignore science teachers' concerns on Leaving Certificate reform.

Speaking in the Dáil on statements on Innovation and Research, Teachta O’Rourke said:

“The concerns of science teachers and their representatives in the Irish Science Teachers Association (ISTA) are well- and long-articulated in relation to the Minister’s accelerated approach to Leaving Cert reform and Senior Cycle Redevelopment.

“They have raised serious concerns in relation to funding for schools, the digital divide and additional assessment components (AAC), and the impacts of proposed reforms on educational standards. There is also concern that the current approach will keep advantage on advantage and disadvantage on disadvantage.

“Extreme concern has been raised around the proposed leaving certificate reforms, warning that without urgent and significant funding and investment in school laboratories and resources, these changes will have an unfair and unbalanced effect on students.

“Under-resourced schools will be left behind if these proposals are implemented. Many schools lack adequate laboratory facilities, trained technicians and essential equipment. This creates an uneven playing field, where students’ results may depend more on their school’s resources than their own ability.

“Furthermore, there is a risk to standards, which has continuously been raised by science teachers. They have warned of the potential dilution of scientific rigour in the Leaving Certificate. Without proper and adequate resourcing, there is a real danger that results could become a lottery, again, depending on school facilities rather than student merit.

“Issues have been raised with regards AACs and in particular the process for supervision and authentication of this individual piece of work. Setting this component at at least 40% is extreme. Evidence shows, at this level, the incentive for cheating is very strong.

“Significantly, without proper management to ensure quality and confidence in the system, there is a real possibility that students will vote with their feet and move away from science subjects. Students could turn away from science if they feel that these subjects are unfairly assessed or are inaccessible due to poor resourcing. We have already seen a 33% decrease in students taking up Agricultural Science as a subject, for example.

“Agricultural Science, as a subject, has already been through this reform process, of course. All this at a time when we need to increase the number and quality of science graduates – as outlined in the STEM Policy Statement 2026. Minister McEntee’s proposal will risk discouraging the next generation from pursuing careers in STEM, a critical sector for Ireland’s future.

“What the government must do is prioritise immediate capital investment, a dedicated fund to upgrade science laboratories in all secondary schools, ensuring every student has access to high-quality practical learning. Schools should be provided laboratory technicians for teaching science subjects.

“Threatening teachers' wages, bullying them to get behind reforms is wrong, what must happen is adequate consultation and engagement with schools and teachers to ensure everyone is ready, prepared and capable of implementing these reforms.

“Standards must be protected, and assurances must be made to protect the integrity of the Leaving Certificate so that results reflect students abilities and not their schools resources.

“The government cannot proceed with Leaving Cert reforms on the cheap. If they continue going this way, they will risk deepening existing inequalities and risk turning students away from science altogether. We need investment, not just ideology, to deliver a system that is fair, rigorous and fit for purpose.”

Minister must heed Teacher warnings on Senior Cycle Reform - Darren O’Rourke TD

Wednesday 23rd April 2025, 09:23 am

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has urged Minister Helen McEntee to listen to the serious concerns of teachers as reflected at their annual conferences this week.

Speaking from the ASTI convention in Killarney, Teachta O’Rourke said:

“As teacher unions gather this week to discuss critical issues in education, I am urging the Minister for Education to listen to their serious concerns about the proposed Senior Cycle reforms. Teachers are on the frontlines of our education system, and their warnings cannot be ignored.

“The current reform plans, pushed forward without meaningful engagement with educators, risk undermining the quality and fairness of our Leaving Certificate. Teachers have raised valid concerns about workload pressures, inadequate resources, and the potential for increased inequality under the proposed changes, including due to the impact of Artificial Intelligence.

“The Minister must pause this rushed process and engage in genuine consultation with all stakeholders, particularly the professionals who deliver education every day. Reforms must enhance, not hinder, the learning experience for students.

“Sinn Féin supports modernising education, but it must be done right - with proper planning, investment, and collaboration. The Minister’s approach risks alienating the very people tasked with implementing these changes.

“I stand with teachers in calling for a pause and re-engagement. The future of our young people is too important to get wrong.”

Copyright © All Rights Reserved