5th April 2021

Tallaght Stone Centre INVESTMENT NEEDED headstones crafted for all cemeteries Tel: (01) 462 6200 Fax: (01) 462 6209 IN NEUROLOGY email: [email protected] web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie

TD for Dublin Mid- personalSERVICES experience the least. I have had situation is not unique West Mark Ward as someone who lives two meetings with a but is reflective of has called on the with multiple sclerosis neurologist since I was the systemic failure in Government to invest how difficult it is to diagnosed and have neurology services in Our Comprehensive Services Include: in neurorehabilitation access neurological received just one MRI the state. ♦ headstones ♦ inscriptions ♦ renovations ♦ chippings services for people with services in the state. scan. neurological conditions I was diagnosed 14 “Neurorehabilitation ♦ re-lettering ♦ counter tops ♦ house names ♦ granite estate signs throughout Ireland. years ago, after years “I am currently on a services are essential Teachta Ward is one of no treatment or waiting list for a follow to promote recovery Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24. of over 800,000 Irish misdiagnosis. At one up MRI scan since and prevent disability people are living with stage I needed to use 2018. While I feel fitter for people who neurological conditions a walking aid to get physically and mentally experience stroke, having been diagnosed around. than I ever have, I have acquired brain injury with multiple sclerosis no idea if the multiple or spinal injury and for in 2007. “My access to sclerosis has developed those with progressive neurological services in a neurological sense. neurological disease. Teachta Ward said: “I since my diagnosis That is why the MRI “I am just one of know from my own has been scant to say scan is critical. “My over 800,000 Irish people are living with neurological conditions including those living with dementia, stroke, acquired brain injury, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.

“An implementation framework for the Neurorehabilitation Strategy, published in 2019, committed to putting in place nine community neurorehabilitation teams nationwide by the end of 2021. To date, only two have been funded, both in the East of the country, CONT. PAGE 2

DO YOU HAVE A QUERY WHICH RELATES TO: LITIGATION FAMILY LAW ● Personal Injury Claims / ● Divorce ● P.I.A.B. ● Judicial Seperation ● Debt Collection ● Seperation Agreements / ● Medical Negligence ● Maintenance Applications

Ballyowen Castle, Ballyowen Shopping Centre, Lucan, Co. Dublin. Call 01 - 6105 185 or 01 6760 555 02 www.newsgroup.ie INVESTMENT NEEDED CONCEPT DESIGNS FOR KILLINARDEN PARK IN NEUROLOGY COMPLETED The concept design for the Walsh Park. The design for connecting park facilities and engaging space for the upgrade of Killinarden Park the park incorporates the which can also double up community while ensuring SERVICES ...... CONT’D FROM 1 has been completed and introduction of diverse as an exercise circuit of that it connects to the plans are soon to progress habitat types, enhanced approx. 1km, linear play wider open space objective despite the lack of on the Rights of People for planning approval. park entrances, upgraded trails, two natural play for the County. services across the entire with Disabilities commits boundary walls and railings, areas, seating, multi-games rest of the country. countries to develop Landscape architects a lit strategic walk/cycle use area with a skate ramp The project is estimated appropriate rehabilitation Nicholas De Jong Associates path along the Whitestown and social space. to cost approximately €2m “This is not good enough services for people with have completed their stream, two new bridges will be brought forward for and I am calling on the disabilities. concept design for the across Whitestown Stream, The park’s design aims to planning approval in March Government to honour upgrade of Killinarden Park. a primary oval footpath create an inviting, safe, 2021. this commitment. Early Ireland is failing to The design process involved diagnosis and ongoing meet this commitment an innovative community- access to treatment is for thousands of Irish wide consultation which paramount to patients people with neurological enabled the community to maintaining a good quality disability and the express their views on the of life. “I am supporting Neurological Alliance park redevelopment. the Neurological Alliance will highlight this in its of Ireland who recently forthcoming submission The input of local stated that, Article 26 on the draft State report councillors, community of the UN Convention on the UNCRPD. activists and the very many residents who submitted Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics their views has been Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 invaluable in developing HK49. the concept now going Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and forward for planning. The Rathcoole & Saggart News plan also considers the Distributed by: Local Post Co. Printed by: Meath Chronicle wider plans as identified in Contact Details: the Tallaght Town Centre Website www.newsgroup.ie Email: [email protected] Local Area Plan to provide Founder: John Russell a new green infrastructure Advertising: Anthony Russell [email protected] and amenity corridor Administration: Sarah Brooks [email protected] along the Whitestown Stream that will connect Killinarden Park with Sean www.newsgroup.ie 03 EASING OF PUBLIC HEALTH RESTRICTIONS WILL GIVE DUBLIN PEOPLE SOME RETURN TO NORMALITY The easing of public health each other indoors two many young people are people permitted to attend end of the tunnel as our their continued efforts in restrictions will allow weeks after their second looking forward to getting funerals will also increase to vaccination programme is adhering to the measures, Dublin people to have some dose. For all others, two back to sport in Dublin a maximum of 25 from this ramped up. and would ask them to return to normality after households can meet up From the 19th of April, date. “The phased easing stay the course as we work an extremely challenging for social and recreational some additional high- of restrictions are subject “I recognise how difficult together to defeat this year, a Fine Gael Senator purposes outdoors, not performance training will be to the prevailing disease the last year has been dreadful disease and get has said. The Government including private gardens. permitted, including senior situation, but people can for people in Dublin I back to normal, Senator has announced an easing “The return to school inter-county GAA training to now see the light at the wish to thank them for Seery Kearney concluded. of public health measures continues apace, with 1st facilitate National League to commence on a phased to 4th year post-primary competition, starting in basis from the 12th of April. students returning from the May. Training for certain Senator Seery Kearney 12th of April. “Also really high performing athletes EUROPEAN COMMITTEE REPORT SHOWS said the Government is welcome is the news that approved by Sport Ireland proceeding with caution all residential construction in a range of other sports based on the NPHET advice can recommence from the can resume from this date. STATE CONTINUES TO BREACH COUNCIL and the current levels of 12th of April. It is crucial “From the 26th of April, Covid-19 in the country. we get construction moving outdoor sports facilities, However it is possible to again to cope with the including pitches, golf TENANTS’ RIGHTS IN BALGADDY begin easing some aspects demand for housing. Early courses, tennis courts TD for Dublin Mid-West Eoin Ó’Broin has “The Minister for Housing must outline of our current Level 5 Learning and Childcare will reopen and activities welcomed the publication of a report what additional funding will be provided restrictions as a result of and school aged childcare here should take place by the European Committee of Social to Councils to bring the housing estates the enormous sacrifices services will be added to between a maximum of two Rights (ECSR) which has shown that the referenced in the report, including made by Dublin people. list of essential services for households. Underage non- State is still in breach of their Article 16 Balgaddy, to an adequate standard for construction activity during contact outdoor training in obligations under the European Social residents. “I am pleased to confirm these restrictions. pods of 15 can recommence Charter. that from the 12th of April, for all exercise activities “Unfortunately, in Balgaddy many homes travel will be permitted “This will align with the that can be delivered Teachta Ó Broin said: “The Report is were built to a very poor standard during within our own county or current exemption to outdoors including dance welcome, but it makes for disturbing the boom and as the report acknowledges 20km of your residence if primary and secondary from this date. reading. While progress is reported with consideration was only been given earlier crossing a county boundary. schools, where school respect to social housing maintenance, this year to moving families from the flats “In the first major sign of building projects are “Outdoor visitor attractions, the Government is still clearly in breach ‘suffering from exceptional maintenance the vaccine bonus, fully progressing, and to allow heritage sites, petting farms of their Article 16 obligations under the issues’ to the ‘next available suitable vaccinated individuals from important fire safety and zoos can open from the Charter. property”. two households may visit works to progress. “I know 26th of April. The number of 04 www.newsgroup.ie

SCOIL CHAITLÍN MAUDE DIVESTING TO AN FORAS PÁTRÚNACHTA An Foras Pátrúnachta (AFP) for over 30 years. school community. We are and AFP for all their students will have the medium schools now in the has announced recently delighted that the school guidance and help with the choice of undertaking an greater Tallaght area giving that Scoil Chaitlín Maude in We are delighted to be will be able to benefit divestment process. Ethics and Morality Program pupils and parents a choice Tallaght is the first gaelscoil building on that solid from all the patronage or a Catholic Program. This of three ethoses. This is a in Dublin to be divested from foundation.” “AFP is the and management support Responding to the demands historic transfer means that reflection of the growth and the Archdiocese of Dublin to only Irish-medium patron for provided by An Foras of today’s society, future there will be three Irish- demand within the sector. An Foras Pátrúnachta. Irish-medium schools. AFP Pátrúnachta through Irish.” aims to provide high quality Scoil Chaitlín Maude was Irish-medium education to Speaking recently, Bairbre SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL established in 1985 and support the growth of Irish Ní Ghoill, Principal of Scoil has a student population language communities. We Chaitlín Maude, said; “We of 350 with 30 staff. are excited to support the are very grateful for the ECO WEEK General Secretary of school and to build on the help the Archdiocese has Mayor of South Dublin Dublin schools in increasing generation. “Fionnghuala An Foras Pátrúnachta, great work that has been given us since the school County, Cllr Ed O’Brien their awareness of and Ryan, Climate Change and Caoimhín Ó hEaghra, spoke ongoing for many years.” was established. We are also officially launched the 17th protecting the environment. Environmental Awareness of the decision: “This is very pleased to continue annual South Dublin County All activities and events Officer for South Dublin an historic decision and Speaking of the this relationship to cater Council (SDCC) Eco Week in held during the week are County Council said “Eco the school community announcement, Pádraig for children of the Catholic County Hall. FREE. Week aims to deliver an is to be commended for Ó Duibhir, Chairperson of faith in our school. We feel Eco Week, which runs important message that their pioneering approach. Scoil Chaitlín Maude said; that this move to an Irish- from 19 - 23 April is one of Speaking at the launch, reaches everyone in our Recognition must be given “This move is the result of medium patron is a timely the biggest events in the Mayor Ed O’Brien said: community - those living to the Archdiocese for their a process that has received decision and we are very Council’s annual calendar “ECO week is a wonderful and working in South Dublin support as a school patron the full support of the grateful to the Archdiocese and aims to engage South week! I am always amazed County. and delighted to see the It gives everyone the variety of activities offered opportunity to get involved during Eco Week and this in reducing their impact on year is no exception. From the environment, by taking ‘Irish Wildlife Trust – Wild simple steps to live in a for Nature’ workshops, to more sustainable manner. ‘Grow your own Garden’. It’s our Environment and Thankfully, society is our community, let’s make becoming more aware of sure to protect it and show the need to be more in tune everyone how proud we are with the environment and of South Dublin County” that it cannot be taken for granted. For more information on Eco Week and We each have a Environmental Awareness responsibility to reflect on events throughout the year our lifestyle and see if it contact envawareness@ is supportive, or damaging, sdublincoco.ie and keep to the environment which an eye on www.sdcc.ie , we will pass onto the next Facebook and Twitter.

Pic Credit: Ben Ryan www.newsgroup.ie 05

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER SHOWS SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL WINNING IMAGES PROGRESSES GRANGE ROAD Palmerstown Camera Club portraits, commercial Advanced and there is are delighted to show photography. His opportunity for everyone recent winning images by presentation will be very to participate. You do so member Gerald Phelan the entertaining, educational at your own pace and with SCHEME 40 Foot and Bums Away! On and interesting. He will training, encouragement South Dublin County However, the scheme was increasing importance of the 7th of April at 8pm, the also answer any questions and assistance from other Council is progressing a recommenced in 2019. making cycling a realistic club resumes it’s weekly regarding his photography members. Adult visitors are new walking and cycling Briefings on the scheme and integral part of how presentations with the and how he produces such always made very welcome. scheme along Grange Road were held with the Area people move around the return of Ashley Franklin. great images. They are currently using between Nutgrove Avenue Committee and the local County. It proposes a set Zoom. and St. Enda’s Drive in schools during 2020 and of 41 projects that would He hails from Wales, lives Palmerstown Camera To visit, free of charge, Rathfarnham, Dublin. a contractor was then deliver nearly 210km of new in Derbyshire, England, Club invites all adults to for one or two meetings, appointed in late 2020. and improved cycle lanes and was a presenter on a friendly, educational and to see how you The scheme will consist over the next ten years. BBC Radio before taking and entertaining club can benefit contact of 675m of re-configured The scheme is included in up photography full time. meetings on Wednesday pccmemberssecre09@ road, inclusive of on and the Council’s Cycle South Works are due to commence His photography includes nights. The club members gmail.com. See you on off-road cycle-tracks, new Dublin proposed programme on site once current Covid landscapes, weddings, range from Learners to Wednesday nights! pavement works, new of works. Cycle South Dublin restrictions are lifted and footways, modern public is an ambitious programme will be built out during lighting, relocated bus of work that reflects the 2021. stops, landscaping and shared accesses. Within the scheme, there will be dedicated school zones and TO ADVERTISE IN THIS junction improvements at Nutgrove Avenue, Loreto Terrace, Convent Lane, NEWSPAPER Dispensary Lane, Stonepark Abbey, and St. Enda’s Drive.

Following public CALL 01 451 9000 engagement, the scheme was approved by Councillors in 2015 but the project EMAIL slowed for some years due [email protected] to funding constraints. 06 www.newsgroup.ie STAYCATION VOUCHER SYSTEM WOULD BE A WELCOME BOOST TO TOURISM INDUSTRY TD for Dublin South West the abject failure of their sector is on its knees. The since October 1st when it is on its knees. “We need after Covid and thousands Seán Crowe has said that ‘Stay and Spend’ tax rebate sector is crying out for came into effect. “Rather to have a workable system of pubs, restaurants, Sinn Féin’s proposed which has seen very little support and they need than a clunky system of a in place before the sector hotels, and other hospitality staycation voucher system take up. greater clarity from the tax rebate, which a cynic is allowed to fully reopen. businesses will have closed should be revisited by the government around how would describe as a way of We also need clarity around their doors for good. government as a boost to Teachta Crowe said: “The and when they will be able making sure no one went to how businesses will be “The Sinn Féin scheme is the tourist industry after tourism and hospitality to reopen. “When Sinn the trouble of collecting, allowed reopen and when. the only one on offer that Féin put forward a voucher a voucher would directly can work and needs to be scheme in July, many inject cash into the tourism It will be far too late if we given the green light by industry representatives and hospitality industry that wait for the dust to settle government.” indicated that they would be in favour of the proposal as a method of supporting POOLBEG TOWERS WINNING IMAGE John Glynn & Company Solicitors them in the coming season. are now offering Zoom and Team “Sinn Féin put forward a consultations. Staycation Voucher Scheme last summer which would give €200 to every adult Zoom consultations allow you to and €100 for every child to speak with a solicitor from the ensure that everyone can comfort of your own home. avail of a helping hand and hopefully enjoy a holiday this year. “Our plan would For those who are not comfortable put money directly into with Zoom, you are still welcome the pockets of people who would then put that money to visit the office in person and use into tills across the state in Teams. order to give a much-needed boost to the sector. “Our plan is simple, effective, Teams allows you to sit in your own and fully costed, but the private room and have a consultation government rejected it out In recent weeks, there has been a lot of discussion about the Towers in Ringsend. with a solicitor who is in another of hand and decided to go Palmerstown Camera Club monthly competition winner in advanced section Aoife Tierney down the failed route of a took this fantastic image of the Poolbeg Towers. Palmerstown Camera Club meets every room. tax rebate. Wednesday at 8.00pm currently by Zoom. They normally have international photographers showing their images and giving members tips on how to take them. So far this year A ‘Stay and Spend’ tax they have had photographers who specialise in underwater images with sharks, crocodiles, For further details and rebate which will end on dolphins, different photographers who specialise in the following - landscapes, mountain to make an appointment, April 30th and has seen climbing, still life, flowers, animals, mono, merging images and stylised portraiture. practically zero take up as Whether you are a beginner or more advanced in photography all adults are invited, for please call 01 - 45 15 099 the country has been closed free, to one or two of their friendly Zoom meetings. Please contact the group secretary at for much of the period [email protected] for more details. See you on Wednesday nights! www.newsgroup.ie 07 ONE SUNRISE TOGETHER FOR DARKNESS INTO LIGHT Electric Ireland is proud to of Dublin Hazel Chu, writer services can continue for lockdown, Pieta’s services Darkness Into Light whether (#BrighterTogether, support Pieta and Darkness Donal Ryan, Blogger Louise those who need it. are in demand more than that’s writing a sunrise #DIL2021), Because under Into Light for the ninth year Cooney, Olympic Diver ever and they need the note, walking, running, one sunrise, we’re brighter and are urging people to Oliver Dingley and Creative This year has seen Irish public’s support. swimming, hiking, biking or together. sign up at darknessintolight. Director Lawson Mpame. people adapt and come simply sharing your sunrise Sign up now at ie to take part in a special Sunrise Notes from some together in times of So, get involved for snap using the hashtags darknessintolight.ie. Darkness Into Light Sunrise of the ambassadors are darkness. We’re a nation on May 8th; a moment that available to read at https:// of doers, and I’m sure can unite us whilst still www.electricireland.ie/ there will be a rally of physically apart. By taking sunrise-notes. support for Darkness Into part in Darkness Into Light, Light, as we look towards now a global movement Electric Ireland and Pieta a brighter future together. and Pieta’s main fundraiser, are also encouraging the I’m looking forward to when participants will help shine nation to take pen to paper we can walk hand in hand, a light on suicide and self- to write their own Sunrise arm in arm at dawn at harm while raising vital Note and share their future Darkness Into Light funds for Pieta’s lifesaving stories of finding hope in events. Until then, while services, which are needed the darkness online using we’re apart, let’s unite for now more than ever, #DIL2021. The concept Darkness Into Light: One following a difficult year. of writing and sharing a Sunrise Together.” heartfelt note will help As part of the campaign normalise the challenges Elaine Austin, CEO, Pieta launch, Electric Ireland people have been facing commented: “We have all together with Pieta have this year, bringing people faced with some incredible worked with well-known together through shared and daunting challenges ambassadors who have experiences of finding over the last year. Pieta is written Sunrise Notes, light in the darkness. here to support all of those which detail how they have Broadcaster Miriam in suicidal crisis and our free found light in the dark, O’Callaghan, commented: counselling has continued, especially over the last “Darkness Into Light is an uninterrupted throughout 12 months. The campaign incredibly important event the Covid lockdowns. is proudly supported on the Irish calendar. Now Our clinical team provide by Broadcaster Miriam more than ever, Pieta need services over the phone, O’Callaghan, Senator support from the Irish public via text and in-person in Eileen Flynn, Lord Mayor to ensure their valued twenty centres nationwide and, since last year, we now provide free counselling over video. In 2020, we delivered over 52,000 hours of therapy and we received over 70,000 calls and texts for help through our 24/7 crisis helpline.

Although there are no organised walks this year, Pieta and Electric Ireland are still urging the nation to sign up and mark this special Darkness Into Light sunrise within Covid guidelines, on May 8th to show support to those impacted by suicide. Picture Andres Poveda Now, one year on from when the country went into MOYNIHAN SLAMS FURTHER VANDALISM AT HERMITAGE PARK Councillor for Palmerstown-Fonthill, be resurfaced with tarmac. It is believed Shane Moynihan, has condemned the that this trail is the source of the stones anti-social behaviour which has been being thrown. Pictures on social media taking place at Hermitage Park and near in recent days have shown car windows St Loman’s Road in recent weeks. smashed as a result of the activity. Cllr Moynihan added: “Restrictions are tough Cllr Moynihan said “ I have been distressed for everyone without people’s safety in recent weeks at reports of serious and being brought into question as well. dangerous anti-social behaviour taking place at Hermitage Park. Stones are People have the right to travel and walk being thrown from the park at oncoming without being harmed or in fear of being vehicles and passers-by. This has resulted harmed. Safe streets should not be a in serious damage and injury in some privilege - they should be the norm.” “This cases.” behaviour is distressing for residents and motorists in the area. I will be raising the Cllr Moynihan has contacted South Dublin need for increased vigilance in Hermitage County Council and requested that a gravel Park, especially in light of the damage path which is currently near the entrance done to the playground last November.” 08 www.newsgroup.ie DUBLIN MOUNTAIN WAY MARATHON RAISING FUNDS FOR LAURALYNN Local James Cahill and a for as all the Marathons Dublin Mountain Way which group of 28 others recently were being cancelled due to is 41km and can be extended decided to raise funds Covid 19, there was no end to a full marathon distance for LauraLynn Children’s in sight of the restrictions so of 42.2km quite easily, Hospice. James commented we said we would set about the decision was made in “Over a Beer at Christmas organising one ourselves”. an instant and April 24th my Brother in Law Fergus was picked as it was close Hayes and I were discussing They considered several enough to get a full training having something to train options and chose the programme completed in time. The Course itself starts in Shankill Village, 10km to Johnny Foxes, 20km Tibradden Wood, 33km Bohernabreena Waterworks and finish line at 42.2km at Tallaght Stadium.

On the 4th of January after a few discussions with close friends they set up a WhatsApp group and became a team of 8 and slowly but surely word got out and more and more people joined up. With football being cancelled 4 of the team from L-R Denis Gaffney, Eoghan Mc Donagh, Gareth Heneghan and James Cahill they had a strong influx of players from Glenville FC in Palmerstown join up as a Foxrock and they provide Trainers Anto Doyle Owner kilometre. As of the end of way of staying fit. a community of care that of Block 9 Health and March €3,179.98 has been LauraLynn Children’s delivers evidence-based, Fitness in our group, Anto raised, but they would Hospice are based in personalised services to was on hand for nutritional love to hit their target for children with palliative care advice and gave us a Lauralynn as it means a lot needs, complex care needs month’s Boot Camp training to everyone involved. and complex disabilities, via Zoom and waived his while also providing family fees to the Charity which The Government announced support services and a home was an amazing boost for recently that countywide to residents where quality- the group”. travel will be allowed of-life is paramount. To see from the 12th of April the great work carried out In conjunction with the which enables the group to at LauraLynn, visit www. Fundraising Team of Cathy proceed as planned, they lauralynn.ie. & Liz in Lauralynn, they will be going out in small ■ Re Latting, Re Felting & Re Slating have set up a idonate page socially distanced groups James added “Within our www.idonate.ie/DMW21 on the day dispersed over ■ New Roofs, Flat Roofs, Roof Repairs group of now 29 is a wide and quickly got the ball 4 hours so there will be and varied mix of runners rolling. They set a target no risk to anyone and they ■ from novice runners to Elite of €1,000 which was hit should all finish roughly at Chimneys Rebuilt or Repointed Marathon Winners and we in the first month, after a the same time also. have all been passing advice discussion within the group ■ UPVC Fascias and Soffits. and tips on a weekly basis. they decided to raise the For more information and We were lucky to have one target to €4,220 which to donate see www.idonate. ■ Guttering and Downpipes of Ireland’s Premier Fitness would equate to €100 per ie/DMW21. ■ Cladding WELCOME PROGRESS ON ASD CLASSES IN ■ Free Estimates and Advice COLLINSTOWN COMMUNITY COLLEGE TD for Dublin Mid West, Mark Ward TD “These classes will assist pupils to reach ■ No Deposit Required has welcomed progress on the provision their educational and development of post primary ASD classes in Collinstown milestones within their own community. ■ Fully Insured Community College. Temporary ASD “I also welcome progress on a permanent classes will be available to pupils in 2 classroom SEN base in the Collinstown SOUTHSIDE/NORTHSIDE COVERED September this year and plans are in Complex. place for to build a permanent two This plan is the design phase and a pre- classroom SEN base in the Collinstown planning meeting with the local authority EMERGENCY CALL OUT SERVICE complex. have taken place. It is expected that a planning application will be lodged in Northside Office Fairview Strand Raod Dublin 3 01 9039037 Teachta Ward said: “I raised the issue the coming weeks for it in the coming of the urgent need of post primary ASD weeks. “I will maintain the pressure on Southside Office Raglan Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4 01 5136750 classes in the North Clondalkin area. I the department to progress this project Mobile 085 713 0028 welcome his response that temporary so that children are not left in temporary Web www.profixroofingandguttering.com classes will be available to pupils this ASD classrooms any longer than is e-mail [email protected] year in Collinstown Community College. necessary. www.newsgroup.ie 09 HOT SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAMME EXTENDED TO SIX SCHOOLS IN DUBLIN MID-WEST The Hot School Meals currently receiving the and cultural dietary Programme will be extended cold lunch option under the requirements.” to 6 primary schools in School Meals Programme Dublin Mid-West a local TD in November seeking Deputy Emer Higgins has said. expressions of interest to continued: “In further avail of the hot school meal. welcome news, Minister Deputy Emer Higgins said: Humphreys also announced “The Covid-19 pandemic “Approximately 40% of today that funding presented everyone with schools expressed an under the School Meals many challenges over interest in the programme Programme will continue the past twelve months, and 189 schools were during the upcoming including our schoolchildren selected, including five Easter holidays for primary here in Dublin Mid-West schools in Clondalkin and second level schools. and especially those who and one in Lucan, having “Before the Covid-19 would previously have come regard to geographical pandemic, funding for the to school each morning spread across all local School Meals Programme without a breakfast. “The authority areas, taking had been confined to the Hot Meals Programme into consideration pupil academic year, however is a major initiative numbers and the overall the Department of Social to encourage school budget available for the Protection has ensured attendance when schools programme in 2021. that this support has are open, when schools are continued throughout, closed and when classes “The hot meals will be including during term are held virtually. “This available to all pupils breaks and school holidays. initiative will consequently enrolled in these schools, “I can reassure schools facilitate better which do not have canteen/ and parents in Dublin Mid- educational outcomes by kitchen facilities for West that the funding for the schoolchildren and preparation of the hot the programme will also help tackle the issue of dinners on site. “The hot continue during the Easter education disadvantage.” meal will replace the cold break between 29th March lunch option that had and April 9th. This will be Deputy Emer Higgins been in place previously. done through the provision continued: “As part of Each school must identify of food parcels. Budget 2021, my Fine Gael a supplier who will supply colleague Minister Heather (prepare and deliver) the “The funding for the Humphreys provided an hot meals in line with School Meals Programme DO YOU HAVE A JOB YOU WOULD additional €5.5 million for HACCP and food safety throughout the entire the extension of the Hot regulations in compliance school terms and holidays School Meals with effect with the Healthy Ireland offers a security for LIKE TO ADVERTISE? from January to 35,000 ‘Nutrition Standards for many vulnerable of primary school children who Hot School Meals’. “Schools schoolchildren by ensuring Reach homes & Businesses in Lucan, had been availing of the will be expected to provide that participating schools in Department’s School Meals a menu choice of at least Dublin Mid-West can provide Programme which provided two different meals per day food parcels benefiting Clondalkin, Tallaght, Rathcoole, cold lunch options only. plus a Vegetarian/Vegan pupils during this time.. “The Department contacted and an option that caters Also, Minister Humphreys Saggart and Newcastle. some 700 primary schools for students’ religious published ‘Evaluation of the Hot Meals Pilot’ which was LOCAL COUNCILLOR ENQUIRES carried out on behalf of the Department and completed Contact Newsgroup today on REGARDING LIBRARY FOR in July 2020. Minister Humphreys [email protected] or call CITYWEST AREA commented: “This research Local Councillor Charlie local Councillor entailed has found that the hot O’Connor recently the following “As Members school meals pilot project 01 451 9000 enquired on the prospect will be aware a report was had a very positive impact of a future library for the brought to the July 2019 on their child’s attendance Citywest area. County Council meeting at school, physical on library provision in health and psychological “To ask the Chief the West of the County. wellbeing. “Overall, the Executive to confirm that The report recommended results were encouraging plans are being progressed Rathcoole Village as a with the majority of for the provision of a new location for extension of parents, teachers and SNAs Public Library in Citywest; Library Services to the rating the hot meals as will he appreciate the West of the County. better quality than food concerns of the local that children ate previously. community that the The report was agreed Council would now honour by the Members and “This is a sound endorsement the commitment given in is currently being for the expansion of the Hot the Fortunestown LAP; developed in conjunction School Meals programme will he give assurances with a proposed larger and I would hope to extend and make a statement?” development plan on it further to include The reply received by the Council owned land.” additional schools in the future.” 10 www.newsgroup.ie Friends of the Camac

Art Competition Pic Credit: Tommy Keogh

L-R: Brian Ronan FOTC: Teacher Sinead Ni Dhurcain; Sophia Ni Bhrúaidí, Gaelscoil na Camoige; Lile Frost FOTC: Principal Aoife Ni Raghallaigh

L-R: Teacher Laura Ni Muircheartaigh; Brian Ronan FOTC; Keevah Ni Caomhanaigh, Gaelscoil Chluain Dolcain; Lile Frost FOTC; Principal Sean MacCarthaigh

L-R: Lile Frost FOTC; Rachel Lang, King’s Hospital School & Adair Cowan FOTC

L-R: Principal Niall Desmond; Lile Frost FOTC; Sammith Maturu, St Joseph’s BNS & Brian Ronan FOTC

Congratulations to all the winners of the 2020 Young Friends of the Camac Art Competition. The artworks submitted on the theme ‘My Favourite Season’ were absolutely fantastic. Great credit goes to all the students who took part, and to their teachers and principals for all the work they do to teach children about the value of the natural environment.

Watch out for Friends of the Camac exciting initiatives for schools in 2021 when they will be running events for primary and secondary schools, and for transition year students. Keep an eye on their newsletters, website www.fotc.ie and Facebook page (search: Friends of the Camac).

If your school would like to participate, email [email protected] www.newsgroup.ie 11

FRANCES FITZGERALD MEP ELECTED CALL ON SDCC TO DO MORE TO PREVENT BIN AS VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE EPP OVERFLOW IN PUBLIC PARKS GROUP BY A MAJORITY VOTE Following increased reports “I believe that residents sent by concerned residents dumping and are planning Frances Fitzgerald, Fine honoured to have been from residents accessing should be bringing their display a massive disrespect on spending €3.08 million in Gael MEP for Dublin, has elected as Vice-President Corkagh Park over the waste home with them and for Tidy Town volunteers. 2021. We need to see some been elected as Vice- of the EPP Group in the weekend Labour Chris I believe that many do. It’s not acceptable for of this money go towards President of the EPP European Parliament. O’Dwyer is calling on South However, this does not take people who are using the harm reduction measures. Group by a majority vote. “As Ireland continues to Dublin County Council to away from the Council’s park to leave their rubbish 2021 is going to be a year face the challenges of introduce new measures responsibility to ensure that beside overflowing bins and where more of us spend Welcoming the result, An COVID-19 and increasing to prevent the overflowing these bins are emptied and it is not acceptable for the time within the local area Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, TD, Brexit tensions, it is of bins in public parks. that our public spaces are Council to allow the bins to due to ongoing restrictions said, “Congratulations to important that we have Reacting to phone calls kept clear. get into such a state. “Last so the Council need to Frances Fitzgerald on her representation at key and emails he received on year the council spent €2.9 generate a strategic plan to election as Vice-President leadership levels in Monday evening O’Dwyer “The photographs that I was million on litter and illegal prevent such build ups. of the EPP Group in the Europe. “I welcome the said: “With the lockdown European Parliament. opportunity to shape the continuing more and more “Frances continues the future of the EU as we residents are making use GRAVEYARD HEADSTONE DECISION proud Fine Gael tradition work towards a COVID of Corkagh Park. We are of Irish representation at recovery which is all about blessed in Clondalkin to WELCOMED the most senior level in the building a better, green, have this wonderful park TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe feel that this approach was only serving European People’s Party. digital and inclusive on our doorsteps but the has welcomed the decision to allow to compound the grief of those who have “Her extensive executive future. “Fine Gael is the Council needs to step up stonemasons to work in our graveyards and lost loved ones in these difficult times by experience in national party of Europe in Ireland; and introduce measures to cemeteries after weeks of confusion on denying some and not others, the right politics and strong focus we were one of the deal with the increase of whether this work could go ahead, causing to erect a permanent memorial to those on inclusiveness and founding members of the waste. further pain to the bereaved at this difficult who have passed. “I had written to the diversity will enhance EPP in 1976. time. Ministers for Health and Local Government the leadership of the EPP I want to build on this “I received phone calls and asking them to issue guidance to officially Group in championing a strong pro-European track emails from residents who Teachta Crowe said: “I welcome the permit this work to resume so that we could fair and inclusive recovery record and strengthen have expressed concern decision that emerged last night to deem lessen the pain of the bereaved in whatever from the Covid-19 links between Ireland and about the emptying of bins stonemasons’ work in graveyards and small ways we can and I am very glad that pandemic. “This election Europe particularly in a in our public parks. The cemeteries as essential work, allowing it this narrow and cruel approach regarding is a great result for Fine post-Brexit environment. bins were overflowing on to go ahead despite the ongoing lockdown. headstones has been resolved. Gael, Ireland and Europe. “I will continue to be Monday evening and with “In the absence of any clear guidelines I wish Frances every a strong voice for my the volume of waste visible from Government, some local authorities “I understand that Stonemasons and success in her new role.” constituency of Dublin and in the photographs it would were permitting stonemasons to work in memorial works in the South Dublin County for Ireland at this crucial suggest that the bins had our graveyards and cemeteries to erect Council area have been written to in the Speaking after the vote, time,” MEP Fitzgerald not been emptied in a good permanent headstones and other memorial last 24 hours informing them of this new MEP Fitzgerald said, “I am concluded. few hours or indeed at all. works to recently departed loved ones “I interpretation and decision.” 12 www.newsgroup.ie INCREDIBLE EDIBLES KEEP WELL EVENT Over 25,000 primary school wowed viewers with an free, healthy eating and showcasing how they keep in the recent Incredible Ireland and Bord Bia for the children from 1,000 schools engaging tour of his skyline growing project that has active to keep well and Edibles Keep Well day and opportunity for Incredible took part in a recent farm and answered all been running in Irish primary participants are currently I wish them every success Edibles to be apart of the Incredible Edibles Keep their sowing and growing schools for 13 years. Over taking part in art and recipe with their projects,” said Keep Well campaign. “It was Well Day, which showcased questions. The Incredible 43,000 primary school competitions aimed at Minister Feighan. an honour for Agri Aware to how children are keeping Edibles Keep Well event was children and 1,600 schools highlighting how they are be invited by Bord Bia to active in the garden and held in conjunction with are taking part in this year’s eating well to keep well. Healthy Eating Executive showcase how Irish children eating healthy to keep Healthy Ireland’s Keep Well programme. Participating Interactive worksheets at Bord Bia, Dr Elizabeth are eating well and keeping well this spring. On March Campaign, which is part schools receive free featuring key, healthy Finnegan also added: “The active in the garden for the 25th thousands of students of the Government Plan grow packs that contain eating advice from Healthy pandemic has put the month of March, as part of and their teachers joined for Living with Covid-19 – everything teachers need Ireland were also made outdoor classroom firmly Healthy Ireland’s Keep Well the two Incredible Edibles Resilience and Recovery to start their own school available to schools on back in focus as an important campaign. The Keep Well Keep Well virtual events, 2020-2021. garden. Students have IncredibleEdibles.ie since educational space for campaign is in line with the which featured well-known showed excellent resilience January and were a vital children. We were pleased ethos of Incredible Edibles, fitness trainer, Ray Lally, The Incredible Edibles and creativity in finding resource to students and to see a record number which has been educating aka The Happy Fitness Guy, programme, sponsored by unique ways of learning all teachers during the recent of schools registering to Irish school children about and horticulturist, Brian Bord Bia, Healthy Ireland, about food origin and fresh, online teaching period. participate in the Incredible the importance of growing McCarthy. Department of Education Irish produce through online Edibles Programme this and consuming Irish fruit and Skills, SafeFood and teaching, while preparing Speaking about the year. Additionally, people and vegetables for a The Happy Fitness Guy, who the Irish horticulture to plant their own spring Incredible Edibles Keep Well are reaping the wellbeing healthy, balanced diet for has a slot on RTE’s Today industry, communicated gardens in March. campaign, The Minister for rewards that gardening and the last 13 years,” said Mr Show, hosted a fun-filled and delivered an impactful Public Health, Wellbeing related activities bring. Jagoe. fitness session with children month-long campaign in For the month of March, and the National Drugs and their teachers and March 2021, which tasked Incredible Edibles delivered Strategy, Frank Feighan T.D. “The past year has shown “On behalf of Agri Aware I showcased the importance primary schools nationwide educational and fun said: “Encouraging children us just how important and would like to thank Bord Bia of keeping active in order to showcase how they were activities as part of the Keep to eat a healthy diet is a effective being outside and Healthy Ireland for the to look after their physical keeping well, eating well Well campaign and in line key objective of Healthy in the fresh air is for opportunity for Incredible and emotional well-being. and being active in the with Task 3 of the project – Ireland and we have been maintaining and boosting our Edibles to play a part in Then, Brian McCarthy who garden. Planting and Growing. very happy to support physical and mental health. the Keep Well campaign. runs Cork Rooftop Farm Agri Aware’s Incredible the Incredible Edibles Bord Bia are delighted to be I would also like to thank in the centre of Cork City, Edibles programme is a Schools submitted videos programme for many years in a position showcase the teachers and students for now. important work Incredible getting so involved in the Edibles is doing in schools campaign in what has been “This programme lays a as part of this national a challenging time for them foundation for children to campaign, promoting the due to Covid-19 restrictions adopt healthy behaviours fun and interactive ways over the last year. We and habits which will last children, schools, families hope that the campaign a lifetime, and which they and communities can get has equipped teachers and in turn, will hopefully be active in the garden,” said students with long-lasting able to pass on to their own Dr Finnegan. knowledge on how they can children some day. I want keep active and well for to thank all of the students Agri Aware chairman, Alan years to come, as well as and teachers who took part Jagoe thanked Healthy lots of fun memories too.”

Dublin P/T (Green Isle Hotel) -Sat. 17th April Dublin F/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Wed. 19th May www.newsgroup.ie 13 O’DWYER CALLS ON LOCAL STUDENTS TO TAKE PART IN CONSULTATION Chris O’Dwyer, The on the reform of the leaving specifically the two State with material. “We need from apprentices to PLCs came to the examinations Labour Party’s Local certificate. O’Dwyer said: Examination. an education system that to university. We must be in 2020 and 2021, it is vital Area Representative in “My Party colleague Aodhan The Labour Party has works for our young people; guided by our young people that they make sure that Clondalkin-Rathcoole O’Riordain TD has been been holding the Minister one that develops skills in this process. “Students their voices continue to is asking second level one of the loudest voices to account and has been and pathways to a range have made sure that their be heard all through the students to engage in the for students in the Dail in a constant advocate for of options for graduates voices were heard when it reform process. Labour Party’s consultation relation to education and students that were due to sit the exams in June. “We are launching a consultation GRIFFITH COLLEGE HOSTS FREE ONLINE survey to make sure that the voices of students in second level education are MATHS REVISION WORKSHOPS FOR heard. It is very important we shape our response to the upcoming Oireachtas LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS Education Committee’s Griffith College is inviting Leaving students, with over 4,600 taking part hearings on reform, based Certificate Students throughout the online in 2020. This year, the workshops on the expressed desires of country to join its FREE online maths will once again be delivered online, students. revision workshops. These will take place allowing learners from across the country TO ADVERTISE IN OUR on Thursday 8th and Sunday 11th April to attend from the comfort of their “We are hearing anecdotal 2021 for ordinary level and honours level own homes. We’re delighted to offer EDUCATION FEATURE, evidence from higher maths respectively. Leaving Cert students this assistance as education institutions that part of our continued commitment to Facilitated by Griffith College’s Director make education in Ireland accessible to this year’s first years are CONTACT SIOBHAN of Academic Programmes, Dr Tomás Mac everyone.” performing much better Eochagáin, the workshops will provide than had been anticipated, TODAY! resources and advice for students The online resources used by Dr Mac given their experience of undertaking the Leaving Certificate Eochagáin during the workshops will be Phone: 01 451 9000 home studying. Institutions papers in higher and ordinary level maths. made available to registered students or Email: are highlighting the until after the Leaving Cert takes place. fundamental resilience Dr Mac Eochagáin said, “Our annual [email protected] of our young people to Leaving Cert maths revision programmes Students can register for the workshops at www.newsgroup.ie adapt to new ways of are always extremely popular with www.griffith.ie. learning and engaging 14 www.newsgroup.ie SPORTS STARS BRING GIY AIM TO HELP HALF A MILLION FITNESS TO HOMES PEOPLE GROW THEIR OWN FOOD AND SCHOOLS WITH ‘GROW IT FORWARD’ In partnership with Healthy “During these challenging project where grandparents Ireland and Libraries times, it is vital that we share seedlings with Ireland, GIY recently do everything we can to grandchildren and keep announced the launch of look after our wellbeing. in touch and share photos ‘Grow it Forward’. Through Right now there is a great as their vegetables grow. this initiative, 50,000 need for positive, outdoor Library staff will be free food growing kits activities and creativity available to support and will be given away, with in how we stay connected guide you through your participants asked to use the to one another. Evidence growing journey so contact kits to share the experience suggests that being out your local library today to with ten people, enabling in nature, spending time sign up and get started. half a million people across in green space or growing You don’t have to be a Ireland to enjoy the wide some plants at home can library member but this range of benefits that come help lift our mood and is a great chance to join from growing food at home. have a positive impact on because as well as GIY’s our health and wellbeing. I adults and children’s books Budding GIY’ers are invited would like to congratulate available as e-books, you’ll to claim a Grow it Forward GIY for this Grow it have access to thousands pack at giy.ie/growitforward Forward project as part of of gardening and cookery or by contacting their local Healthy Ireland’s Keep Well books and magazines so you library, as all 330 branches campaign – this simple idea can continue to develop nationwide are helping to can really bring great joy, your new hobby.” drive the effort. As part of foster wellbeing and can the Government’s Keep Well also help revive community Calling on people of all ages programme, this campaign spirit. I encourage everyone to join the campaign, GIY’s is designed to help the to get involved.” Director of Development nation eat well by inspiring Karen O’ Donohoe added, and supporting people to On behalf of local authorities “We encourage everyone to Irish world boxing champion Kellie and cool-down stretches as well as tips grow some of their own food and libraries, Colette Byrne, take part regardless of your Harrington and track and field Olympian, on overall wellbeing and healthy-eating at home while connecting Chief Executive of Kilkenny experience in growing or David Gillick will be coming online to homes recipes. Believed by Kellie and David to be with friends and family to County Council said, “Local the space you have to grow. and schools throughout Dublin and beyond “more important now during lockdown than join them. authorities and libraries are Packs will be given out on over the coming months until summer at any time previously”, the 20-minutes long delighted to partner with a first-come, first-served holidays begin. series of videos will see a new production Each food growing pack GIY on the GROW It Forward basis and we will then released each Tuesday and Thursday all includes seeds for beetroot, programme. As the days teach people how to grow, Joining the Fyffes Fit Squad team, Kellie free to view on the www.fyffesfitsquad.ie carrots, salad leaves, peas brighten all of us are looking whether on a windowsill and David will broadcast their approach website. and tomatoes; a guide for things to do and what or a large garden. We will to exercise and fitness in a 12-weeks to help grow them and a better way than growing also show a wide range of programme intended to encourage children Said by Fyffes marketing manager, Emma postcard and gift tags to your own healthy and ways to share seeds, small to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. Hunt-Duffy to be ‘a fun and easy way to help share them. Those nutritious food from seed? seedlings, plants in pots keep children fit and active’, live Fit Squad who sign up will also When you sign up, you’re or the produce at harvest Created so parents and teachers can also sessions have been attended by over 5,000 receive regular e-mails with not just getting seeds, time, to make sure your participate, content will include new children in Dublin schools, and 20,000 growing support, video clips you’re getting a whole Grow it Forward experience workout routines, warm-up exercises nationwide, since its launch three year ago. and ideas for how to ‘grow programme of support and is as easy as can be.” it forward’ by passing on the opportunity to share seeds, seedlings or produce your new knowledge along Register for a Grow it FOCUS ON EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION in accordance with social with seedlings, plants and Forward pack while distancing guidelines. produce with friends and supplies last at www.giy.ie/ family. This could be a growitforward or contact LEADS TO LAUNCH OF NEW COURSE Speaking at the campaign lovely intergenerational your local library. Early childhood practitioners in Co. led workforce. With Government and launch, Michael Kelly, Dublin and beyond who are currently media focus on the sector also becoming Founder of GIY said, “The active in the field of Early Childhood more acute, the need for a structured pandemic has seen a record Education – as well as those considering a approach to providing quality education number of people turn to career in the sector – are being addressed and qualifications has become more growing their own food by Hibernia College with the launch of evident. and discovering the joy a Bachelor of Education (Honours) Early In putting forward its case for the and pride that brings. The Childhood Education programme for programme, Hibernia College says it is process of seeing a seed which applications are open until May seeking to provide a qualification built turn into a seedling and 12th next. by Early Childhood Professionals to meet eventually food you can the market demand for qualifications that eat is full of magic and Designed to satisfy Early Education can be earned while students continue to no shortage of optimism. guidelines published by Government and work and practice. Grow it Forward is all about the Department of Education, the four- sharing that feeling as far year blended learning programme being Described as ‘bringing twenty years and wide as possible at a offered by Hibernia College will begin of innovation in teaching to Early time when we need it most. in Autumn and will include face-to-face Childhood Education’, the Hibernia That’s why we’re inviting tuition coupled with online engagement College programme will offer skills that people to get free seeds and mentoring. will enhance research-informed practice and do good deeds.” including modules on early intervention, Nationally and internationally the evolving special education, inclusion and diversity Speaking in support of the policy and practice landscape within early and research methods in addition to the campaign, Frank Feighan TD, Minister of State for Public childhood is moving towards a graduate flexible blended learning aspect. Pic Credit: Patrick Browne Health and Wellbeing said, www.newsgroup.ie 15 16 www.newsgroup.ie

NOVENAS FOR LAURA LYNN TALLAGHT AUTHOR NAOMI KELLY, ADDS

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This asked for many favours. This ANOTHER ADVENTUROUS ‘TAIL’ TO HER time I ask you for a very time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart within your own broken heart SEAFARING SERIES where your Father sees it. where your Father sees it. Independent author Naomi Kelly, released Kairos in recent Then in His merciful eyes it Then in His merciful eyes it weeks following the success of the first book, Meraki, last will become your favour and will become your favour and May. This Young Adult Fantasy novel is the second book in not mine. Amen. Say this not mine. Amen. Say this the Syren Stories, allowing readers to dive back into the prayer for three days. Promise prayer for three days. Promise fantasy world full of underwater Queendoms and faraway publication and favour will publication and favour will isles. be granted no matter how be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to impossible. Never known to fail. Special mention to the fail. Special mention to the The story begins when old enemies come knocking, forcing United Hearts of Jesus and United Hearts of Jesus and protagonists Wren and Kellan to decide which side they’ll Mary for great favour witness Mary for great favour witness fight for. Magic or mortal? Her Queendom or his Kingdom? received. P.M received. D.S And the greatest question of all, can they even fight for the same side with so much dividing them? MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have of Jesus in the past I have Brimming with magic and mythology the Syren Stories offer asked for many favours. This asked for many favours. This time I ask you for a very time I ask you for a very a much-needed sense of escapism in the modern climate. special one. Take it, dear special one. Take it, dear It was this desire for adventure which initially drove Heart of Jesus, and place it Heart of Jesus, and place it twenty-five-year-old Naomi Kelly, to pick up her pen and within your own broken heart within your own broken heart start writing. Although the story contains creatures such as where your Father sees it. where your Father sees it. syrens, merfolk and centaurs, this enchanting tale is deeply Then in His merciful eyes it Then in His merciful eyes it rooted with everyday struggles which readers relate to. will become your favour and will become your favour and Topics such as loss, facing fear and going against family not mine. Amen. Say this not mine. Amen. Say this expectations are all covered within this series. prayer for three days. Promise prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will publication and favour will be granted no matter how be granted no matter how Fellow Irish writer Kate Callaghan, author of Crowned a impossible. Never known to impossible. Never known to Traitor, said this when asked about the Syren Stories: “I fail. Special mention to the fail. Special mention to the felt like I was in a Disney movie and I loved every minute. United Hearts of Jesus and United Hearts of Jesus and Effortless reading when you just want to sink into a story!” Mary for great favour witness Mary for great favour witness Further ratings and reviews are available on Goodreads. received. P.M received. B.R Both books are available in eBook format from Kindle, and paperback by Book Depository and Amazon. Meraki is MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have of Jesus in the past I have currently available in South Dublin libraries and Kairos will asked for many favours. This asked for many favours. This be joining it on shelves after Easter. time I ask you for a very time I ask you for a very special one. Take it, dear special one. Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place it Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart within your own broken heart KNOCKMITTEN ASTRO where your Father sees it. where your Father sees it. THREE WEEK EXTENSION TO Then in His merciful eyes it Then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and will become your favour and not mine. Amen. Say this not mine. Amen. Say this PAID PARENT’S LEAVE PITCH FUNDING prayer for three days. Promise prayer for three days. Promise publication and favour will publication and favour will The extension of paid for the payment. “It’s so be granted no matter how be granted no matter how parent’s leave is a very important that parents get SHORTFALL impossible. Never known to impossible. Never known to Cllr William Carey has called on South Dublin County Council fail. Special mention to the fail. Special mention to the welcome development for the support that they need (SDCC) provide a solution to the funding shortfall for the United Hearts of Jesus and United Hearts of Jesus and all new parents, a Dublin in those early stages,” Mary for great favour witness Mary for great favour witness Mid-West TD has said. said Deputy Higgins. “This proposed Astro Pitch in Knockmitten, Clondalkin. Cllr Carey received. G.L received. A.R Speaking on the passing extended payment will was speaking in response to the call from Knockmitten FC of the Family Leave Bill, allow parents take that for funding for a (50mx30m) astro-pitch facility within the MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony Emer Higgins said, “This time to get to know their area. At the March Clondalkin area committee meeting of Jesus in the past I have “Blessed be God in His Angels extension of paid parent’s new born and adjust to councillors agreed that the emphasis should be on SDCC asked for many favours. This and in His Saints” O Holy St. leave from two to five the changes that come to provide sufficient sports and leisure facilities within time I ask you for a very Anthony gentlest of Saints, communities. Cllr Carey submitted a motion calling on special one. Take it, dear your love for God and charity weeks is brilliant news and with new family life. SDCC in partnership with Knockmitten FC to proceed with Heart of Jesus, and place it for His creatures, made you I know it will be welcomed within your own broken heart worthy, when on earth, to by many parents. “Every child needs and the project and requested SDCC to find a solution to the where your Father sees it. possess miraculous powers. deserves the best start shortfall in funding Then in His merciful eyes it Encouraged by this thought, I “Being a new parent is in life, and I hope that will become your favour and implore you to obtain for me never easy, but this last we’ll see the benefits Cllr Carey stated that Knockmitten FC had engaged in good not mine. Amen. Say this (request). O gentle and loving year has been especially of supporting 30,000 faith when submitting estimates of €168,000 for the original prayer for three days. Promise St. Anthony, whose heart was challenging,” said Deputy parents to spend more project. However, following analysis by SDCC, the revised publication and favour will ever full of human sympathy, estimate had come in at €309,355. Cllr Carey stated, “It be granted no matter how whisper my petition into Higgins. “I’m delighted quality time with their is not reasonable to expect, nor likely that a community impossible. Never known to the ears of the sweet Infant that this extension of the children.” “This Bill has fail. Special mention to the Jesus, who loved to be folded €245 a week payment will also made family support based club such as Knockmitten FC could provide this level United Hearts of Jesus and in your arms. The gratitude of benefit 30,000 parents more inclusive meaning of funding and the proposal by SDCC to reduce the size Mary for great favour witness my heart will ever be yours. and support them when all adopting couples can of the build by over 50% would be totally inadequate to received. Amen. they most need it. “The choose which parent the needs of the community. Cllr Carey continued, “SDCC P. R D.S Payment will be extended avails of adoptive leave, proposal would only provide for a pitch size smaller than to five weeks starting including male same-sex the 18yd box of a normal size pitch. If you would like a Novena published please send a postal order from next month and it’s couples and Paternity This would be totally inadequate to the needs of the or cheque (Minimum of €10 per prayer) made out to Laura Lynn important to note that Leave and Benefit will community here. Cllr Carey said that there is a responsibility Children’s Hospice, along with your Novena to: NEWSGROUP, Unit it can be back dated for be made available to on SDCC as the local authority to provide funding or 3 Floor 2 St Dominics Shopping Centre, St Dominics Road, Tallaght, over a year so anyone the parent who is not sporting facilities within our communities and while clubs Dublin 24. who has had a child since receiving adoptive leave,” such as Knockmitten can provide the organisation to ensure If you require any further information please call 01 45 19 000 November 2019 can apply concluded Deputy Higgins. efficient use they cannot be expected to provide this level or email: [email protected]. of funding”. www.newsgroup.ie 17

Home cooking and baking Salmon & Beetroot tartare with Goat’s Cheese By Chef Bal Krishna Shrestha Ingredients: Method:

- 140g fresh salmon fillet Firstly skin and pin bone the salmon fillets then chop into very small - 60g goat’s cheese pieces. - 80g cooked & chopped organic beetroot - 10g chopped spring onion Make small individual balls of goat’s cheese with your hand. - 1tsp chopped fresh coriander - ½tsp chopped green chili In a separate bowl, mix gently the chopped salmon, beetroot, spring - 1tsp ground mustard or whole grain mustard onions, green chilli & coriander. - 1tsp toasted fennel seeds - 1tbsp lime juice Then add mustard, fennel, seasoning, lime juice & oil. Serves 4 people - 1tbsp olive oil - Seasoning to taste Mix it well with a rubber spatula until all ingredients are well combined. Preparation time: 30 minutes

Transfer tartare to a clean bowl & cover with cling film. Leave in the fridge until needed.

Remove the salmon tartare from the fridge & place onto 4 plates. Garnish: Decorate with goat’s cheese, coriander cress & lime wedges. - Fresh coriander cress - Lime wedges Serve immediately as starter. Hot Cross Bun Muffins ngredients:

- For the muffins For decoration: - 185g Light brown sugar - 185g Butter - 100g Icing sugar - 3 Eggs - 1/2 tsp Almond extra - 1 tsp Almond extract - 1 tbsp Water - 1 Apple peeled, cored and grated - 250g Mixed dried fruit - 250g Self raising flour - 1 tsp Mixed spice - 1/2 tsp Cinnamon - 1/4 tsp Nutmeg Method:

Pre-heat oven to 180C/160C Fan/350F/Gas Mark 4, line a cupcake tin with paper cases Cream together the light brown sugar and the butter. Add the eggs and almond extract and whisk well

Mix in the apple, self raising flour, mixed spice, cinnamon and nutmeg Fold in the mixed dried fruit

Divide the mixture between the cases

Bake the muffins for 25 minutes until golden brown, or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean, place on a cooling rack to cool completely

To make the icing mix the ingredients together, add the water slowly as you may not need it all. You need a thick, pipable paste

Put the icing into a piping bag and pipe crosses onto each muffin 18 www.newsgroup.ie

KIDS PAGE

Notes

COLOUR ME IN www.newsgroup.ie 19 20 www.newsgroup.ie www.newsgroup.ie 21 NEW OUTDOOR DINING SCHEME IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LOCAL AUTHORITIES Minister for Tourism 12th2021. securing this funding and the Catherine Martin TD CCMA for its support with and Fáilte Ireland have Announcing the Scheme designing and administering announced details of a Minister Catherine Martin it. Part One of the Outdoor new €17million Scheme said: “This Scheme has two Dining Enhancement for developing outdoor main objectives: firstly, to Scheme relates to Outdoor dining capacity nationwide. enable individual tourism Seating and Accessories to The Outdoor Dining and hospitality businesses help tourism and hospitality Enhancement Scheme increase their dining and businesses offset some comprises two parts and will seating capacity in the short- of the costs incurred in be delivered in partnership term and secondly to enable upgrading premises for between Fáilte Ireland and a long-term strategy for outdoor dining and seating. Local Authorities across the local authorities to develop Part Two of the Scheme country. appropriate permanent relates to Weatherproofing weatherproofed outdoor and Outdoor Dining Part One of the Scheme dining infrastructure. Infrastructure which will provide funding for focuses on the development individual tourism and The aim is to support of medium to large scale hospitality businesses jobs and businesses and permanent public dining to develop and increase to transform appropriate spaces in towns and their own outdoor seating outdoor spaces within centres in preparation for capacity. Funding allocated our cities and towns as welcoming back visitors under Part Two will enable welcoming, vibrant places when it is safe to do so. Local Authorities to develop that will help support permanent outdoor public economic recovery. This Each Local Authority can dining spaces in towns and funding announcement apply for up to €200,000 urban centres, similar to further strengthens this under this element of Moira Murrell, Chair of the seating options to boost the country that not only those that exist in various Government’s commitment the scheme. We have CCMA Rural Development, appeal and attractiveness benefit locals, but are also European cities. to the development of been working closely Community, Tourism, of our cities and towns. attractive to domestic and rural towns, as outlined with the County and City Culture and Heritage overseas visitors when the The Minister for Tourism, in the ‘Our Rural Future’ Management Association (RCTCH) Committee Following the success of sector re-opens. Arts, Culture, Sport, plan announced earlier this (CCMA) on behalf of the stated: “Local Authorities the Street Furniture Grant Gaeltacht and Media, week.” Local Authorities to design are looking forward to Scheme, implemented by Developing outdoor Catherine Martin T.D. is a scheme that will be administering this Scheme some Local Authorities in infrastructure is a key officially launching the Paul Kelly, CEO of Fáilte efficient and practical. We for individual businesses, 2020, we look forward to element of answering the Scheme, which opens for Ireland added: “I want to look forward to seeing the as well as delivering year- creating outdoor dining consumer demand for more initial applications on April thank Minister Martin for results across the country.” round all-weather outdoor experiences around the flexible dining options.” COUNCIL RELUCTANCE TO AGREE RECOMMENDED PUBLIC PATH LIGHTING CRITICISED Councillor Derren Ó Brádaigh to Foxdene residents too. “The – this being the very reason has expressed his frustration call for public lighting at this lighting is recommended in the at the Councils response to a particular location comes on the first instance in the report. The motion he raised at the March back of recent survey research, area is not a segregated park Area Committee meeting for outlining the concerns for lighting but a key practical and busy Lucan-Pamerstown-North at this location amongst its key residential pathway en-route to Clondalkin calling for a key findings. A ‘Safety and Inclusivity local services. pedestrian connectivity walkway in Clondalkin Scoping Study’ in Neilstown to be adequately within the perspective of gender- “There seems to be somewhat lit with much needed public based violence and commissioned of a contradiction if, on one lighting. by South Dublin County Council hand we are agreeing to the as part of the ‘300K Have Your allocation of funds to commission Cllr Ó Brádaigh said: “A motion Say Participatory Budget’ goes on a study and then ignoring the I had down at the recent Area further to recommend that the recommendations of those very Committee meeting sought Black Laneway is lit, particularly same important study findings. approval by fellow councillors at night! The survey also points Having found myself strenuously and agreement from South to the fact that the area is not arguing the merits for the Dublin County Council to instal overlooked by houses and is requirement of lighting here, I public lighting on a 280 metre eerily isolated. was encouraged by the managers section of pedestrian walkway, openness to reassess the case for referred to locally as the ‘Black “In the response to the motion, public lighting along the ‘Black Path’ – a stretch totally void I was confused to read that the Path’. I thank the council for of any lighting. This important rationale for the reluctance their willingness to listen to the pathway provides direct access not to agree lighting along the voice of the local community and to the residents of over 400 laneway was for the reason that I congratulate the 157 individuals homes and runs from Neilstown the vicinity is ‘not overlooked’ and 14 organisations that took the Shops through Ronanstown and and users may be vulnerable time to participate in the overall Wood Avens and providing access mid-section between lighting survey work in this regard. 22 www.newsgroup.ie

MOTORING LIFE WITH All-New Hyundai i20 – Designed To Stand Out By Breda Corrigan

Dynamic and distinctive, the all-new 84PS (83bhp) entry engine comes with a Hyundai i20 is setting new standards in 5-speed manual transmission as standard. the small car segment. Combining lots of This power unit is available in both trim smart technology - like best-in-class safety levels and offers pleasant torque delivery, and connectivity features - it is also the along with fuel consumption as low as first car in Europe to feature Hyundai’s 5.3l/100km on a combined driving cycle, new ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language. and annual road tax of just €190 (Co2 120g/ The distinctive front bumper is framed km). However, the new i20 ‘Launch Edition’ by prominent air intakes and a bold new is also available with a 100bhp 1.0-litre grille in a mesh design for a powerful first petrol engine in automatic transmission impression, while the flowing z-shaped LED guise only, which attracts annual road tax combination lamps extend visually across of €210. the boot lid, connecting the lamps in the rear for a truly unique look. Hyundai SmartSense;

Striking & Funky Design; With Hyundai SmartSense, Hyundai’s cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Possessing a funkier look than ever before, Systems (ADAS), the all-new i20 offers the new i20’s striking design has creases and the most comprehensive active safety angles in all the right places. Benefitting technology packages in its class – built from a 30mm increase in width, and a to provide occupants with more safety 24mm lower roof, the stance of the new and peace of mind. Many of the features i20 is noticeably more pronounced than its available would not be expected to be predecessor, while Hyundai has increased found in cars of this segment, and this is the wheelbase by 10mm for class-leading testament to Hyundai’s commitment to a contrasting black roof and door mirror top speed of 173km/h (where permitted). passenger space. With a 352-litre capacity ensuring occupant safety is a top priority. casings for added visual drama (a €500 cost Excellent driving dynamics, solid brake feel (25 litres more than its predecessor) the Activate the new i20’s Voice Recognition option). Key features in this range-topping and a composed ride quality provides the all-new i20 offers more space for family Vehicle Control (VRVC) with the ‘push to i20 include stylish 16-inch alloy wheels, new Hyundai i20 with a premium feel on adventures, or the weekly grocery shopping talk’ button on the steering wheel and electric folding door mirrors, electric the road, while the car’s comfortable seats trip. If you need space for a big haul, you control air conditioning, temperature and windows front & rear, air conditioning, and airy cabin transform every journey into can conveniently store the boot cover other car functions with your voice. With rear parking sensors and camera, keyless an enjoyable one. behind the rear bench to make optimal use eCall, the i20 automatically alerts rescue entry, USB ports front and rear, Bluetooth™, of the new i20’s stowage capacity. With the services and provides them with the car’s Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™, cruise Verdict, Pricing & Warranty; rear seat backs folded, the space on offer location in the event of a serious accident. control, touchscreen infotainment system, increases to an impressive 1,165-litres for State-of-the-art smart tech with dual 8” wireless phone charger, rear privacy glass, The all-new Hyundai i20 truly is a car that even greater practicality. visually-combined big screens (with split- space-saver spare wheel and a height- looks as good as it drives, with a modern, screen functionality) brings seamless adjustable driver’s seat, along with many dynamic profile that stands out on the road. Trim & Engine Options; connectivity directly into the cabin of the other comfort, convenience, safety and Pricing for the all-new Hyundai i20 starts at new i20, with features to make driving security features. just €17,495 (ex-works) for the ‘Classic’ Presently, the new Hyundai i20 is available more convenient and enjoyable. specification, while the limited-time in two trim levels – entry-level ‘Classic’ The new i20’s redefined exterior design and ‘Launch Edition’ is priced from just €19,495 and a limited-run ‘Launch Edition’, with Test Car; sporty silhouette cuts quite a dash on the (ex-works). All new Hyundai passenger the latter coming with the option of a road, with the car’s energetic proportions cars come with a comprehensive 5-year two-tone colour combination for ultimate My test car was a new Hyundai i20 1.2-litre oozing style from every angle. Producing unlimited mileage warranty, 5-year AA personalisation. With 1197 cc of engine (5-speed manual) ‘Launch Edition’, which 83bhp and 118Nm of torque, the 1.2-litre roadside assistance package and a 5-year displacement and 4 cylinders, the new i20’s was finished in striking Polar White with engine is capable of completing a 0-100km/ free vehicle health check package for total h sprint in 13.1-seconds, on its way to a peace of mind motoring. www.newsgroup.ie 23 Local Business CASWELL Wrought Iron Gates & Railings, Ram Bars etc. Classifieds MOBILE WELDING - 24 CALL OUT EASY WAYS TO PLACE AN AD Tel: 01 45 19000 Email: [email protected] Online: www.newsgroup.ie

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