Issue No 14

Fingal News April 2020

SHINING A WONDERFUL LIGHT FOR COMMUNITY FINGAL RESPONSE

Heritage Local groups properties and show true council buildings colours P4-8 light up - P12 & 13 ON CALL TO HELP OUR COMMUNITIES

INSIDE Fingal Covid-19 Community Forum responds to crisis Mayor’s Message Chief Executive’s Message I hope this message finds you and your We are working hard to family safe and well. deliver as many of our It is hard to believe services as possible during how much our world COVID-19 and to ensure has changed since the that important services last edition of Fingal remain available for our News was published. citizens.

The COVID-19 pan- The nature of the threat demic has swept facing us has meant that across the globe and our public offices, libraries, unfortunately has been affected like many other countries. heritage properties, sports facilities, community centres and other facilities have had to close but our staff are still I would like to take this opportunity to offer my on duty, with some of them redeployed either within the sympathies to all those families who are grieving Council or to another part of the Public Service. the loss of a loved one at this time and I also pass on my best wishes to those battling this deadly One of the tasks that Government asked local authorities virus. to do as part of the response to the current crisis was to set up and co-ordinate the COVID-19 Community We owe an awful lot to those working on the Call Forum. This body is made up of a wide range of frontline against COVID-19, in particular our health- community organisations and the first phase of its care workers, but also to those who are employed work was to establish a Helpline for those vulnerable in the essential work that is needed to keep our members of our community in need of assistance. country going.

I am mindful that this is a worrying time for em- Our Freephone 1-800-459-059 is open 7 days per ployers and employees. Many businesses, big and week to support our housebound and cocooning small, have had to shut down or downsize and are citizens. fearing an uncertain future. Our Local Enterprise Office here in Fingal has switched its focus in The second phase is to establish a community wellbeing response to the crisis and are assisting businesses programme and I am pleased that the investment Fingal trying to come to terms with what has happened. County Council has made down through the years in areas like Libraries, the Arts, Sports, Heritage and Events Citizens too are having to adapt to a wide range of is already reaping a rich dividend for our citizens as restrictions in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19 we promote physical and mental well-being through and I would like to thank everybody who is follow- a variety of programmes and, in this era of restricted ing the Public Health advice in relation to hygiene, social distancing, travel and cocooning. travel, through an array of communications channels.

It is quite clear that your sacrifices have saved lives I cannot impress enough the importance of every citizen and it is important we maintain our discipline in taking personal responsibility for looking after their the weeks ahead and don’t get complacent. physical and mental health at this very stressful time.

Myself and my fellow councillors are still at the end I also want to appeal to everybody to keep an eye out of a telephone or an email address and are still in for those most vulnerable members of our community the business of representing you, our constituents. who are cocooned and need support. A small gesture of Please feel free to contact any of us if you have any a phone call or a note through the door may be of great concerns. Our details are on the back page of this benefit to a neighbour at this time. magazine.

Cllr Eoghan O’Brien AnnMarie Farrelly Mayor of Fingal Chief Executive

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 2 Newsdesk DEDICATED COMMUNITY CALL HELPLINE UP AND RUNNING TO ASSIST THOSE AT RISK

dedicated Covid-19 ACommunity Call helpline has been established in Fingal to assist at risk members of the public in accessing non-emergency and non-medical supports and advice during the current public health emergency

The Community Call is an unprecedented mobilisation of both State and voluntary resources to combat the effects of Covid-19. The purpose of the Community Call is to coordinate community activity, direct community m Order of Malta the COVID-19 pandemic.” assistance to where it is needed, m Dublin Civil Defence and marshal the volunteering m GAA The Chief Executive of Fingal energy of the country. m Local Link County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly, m Citizens Information said: “Fingal County Council is The Fingal forum includes over a m Fingal Public Participation ideally placed both statutorily and dozen agencies and organisations Network regionally to channel this great and is ensuring that within Fingal m ALONE work and provide the governance there is co-ordination around m TU Dublin structure in partnership with all the operation to ensuring that m Fingal Chamber of Commerce stakeholders. This public health vulnerable members of the m Empower crisis has changed life for so many, community or those living alone m Fingal Leader Partnership and we are there to help with that can access deliveries of groceries, m Irish Famers Association change. Our own staff whose medicine and fuels. day-jobs have changed due to this Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan crisis, will be a key resource in the Included in the COVID-19 Fingal O’Brien said: “There are a number management and operation of this Community Response Forum are: of agencies currently doing community support programme m Fingal County Council excellent work in delivering care along with our partner agencies/ m Mayor of Fingal to older and vulnerable people groups.” m HSE in our communities. These m Fingal Local Community groups are currently operating Development Committee independently of each other and The Fingal Community m An Post Fingal County Council’s role is to Response number is 1 800 m Community Welfare Service provide a targeted, integrated 459 059 or 01-8905000 with m Tusla and coordinated approach to the the lines open from 8am to m Garda Siochana delivery of these much-needed 8pm seven days a week. The m Fingal Volunteer Centre services to our more vulnerable dedicated email address is m Muintir na Tire citizens across the county during [email protected].

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 3 Newsdesk GAA clubs show their true colours as part of Coronavirus response

n these most challenging of Itimes GAA members across the county have been assisting Fingal Council’s Covid-19 Community Response by supporting people in their local communities.

The response to this crisis by our clubs, urging everyone to adhere to the public health and government recommendations and in assisting older and vulnerable people is an example of the best of the GAA community spirit in action. This public health crisis has changed life for so many and the GAA clubs are there to help ease the burden on individuals.

St. Finian’s, being just one example, are doing a variety of tasks including grocery shopping, collecting prescriptions from pharmacies, newspaper and meal deliveries to people who are cocooning at the moment, collecting pensions from the local post office and providing social support and contact to individuals who are living alone.

Emma Webster, volunteer Here volunteers from the club with St. Finians GAA Club delivering groceries to an took time out to tell Fingal elderly member of the News how their response community. efforts are going so far.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 4 Newsdesk

Volunteers with St. Finians Dave Dodd, Ger Edwards, Miriam Satell, Denise McDermott (Club Chairperson), Ken McDermott and Áine McLaughlin.

St Finian’s answers the Covid call he GAA’s slogan is ‘Where We All is an important gesture of solidarity signed up for the initiative. On TBelong’ and this is particularly with all those who supported the behalf of the club, I would like to apt at a time when we are all united club since it was founded in 1983. sincerely thank the volunteers in the fight against COVID-19. who embody the spirit of the club Emma Webster volunteered with St. through their willingness to assist Clubs the length and breadth of Finians as soon as the scheme was those who need help.” the country are playing a vital role announced: “I have lots of free time in the Community Call and are to help people in our community She continued: “I’d also like to offering their services to the elderly who are cocooning. I am someone thank Donal O’Ciobhain from our and vulnerable in their localities. who likes to keep busy, so I have local SuperValu for his invaluable St. Finian’s GAA Club in Rivervalley found it hard being at home so support and offers of help with is usually a hive of activity with much and I am delighted to be able our community response. If you or training sessions, matches, to make some peoples’ lives a little anyone you know needs assistance, fundraising activities and social less stressful during this pandemic.” please contact the Community events taking place. Of course, Support Helpline on 1800-459 059 like every other GAA Club in the Emma, who works with children or email [email protected]. country, St. Finians is temporarily and who has been at home since closed, so members have found the closure of chools and creches St. Finian’s GAA Club wish all our other ways of keeping in touch in on March 13, sees the impact the members and our local community these unprecedented times. situation is having on people: “I the very best at this time and we hope some of the restrictions look forward to welcoming you back Coaches are posting energetic will be able to be lifted soon. The to sport and to our club in the near and fun skills challenges for people I help are finding it hard as future.” their players, teams are running they are losing their independence competitions for the younger being so isolated at home.” While none of us know what the members and committee meetings coming weeks will bring or if there are taking place online. Some Club Chairperson, Denise will be a requirement for long- members have become Community McDermott, is very proud of term adherence to the current Call volunteers and have been the overwhelming response to restrictions, one thing is certain – running errands and doing the Community Call: “We have a St. Finians volunteers are standing shopping for people in the locality phenomenal group of members by and ready to assist anyone in the that need assistance. It’s a way of and supporters in St Finians who local community who needs their giving back to the community and immediately came forward and help.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 5 Newsdesk Empower running two initiatives during Covid-19 emergency s a member of the Fingal Covid-19 Community Call AForum, Empower Fingal is helping to deal with the many problems that our communities face with the current health emergencies.

Empower Fingal which provides employment support, English language classes, IT support, health and parenting courses across Fingal, is currently running the Connect & Include and the Donate a Plate initiatives to with special needs. The Connect & Include programme is help support the Fingal community during the current seeking support from the business community to try and COVID-19 emergency. bridge the digital divide.

Connect & Include is a digital inclusion initiative that Another service that Empower is supporting, alongside seeks to support families who may be experiencing Northside Home Care Services, is Donate a Plate. Northside digital exclusion now. Digital exclusion occurs through a Home Care Services are extending their Meals on Wheels lack of access, or use of, digital technologies, low quality Service Delivery in areas of North Dublin, to assist those in of digital infrastructure in their area or having a lack need of meals delivered to their homes during the COVID-19 of knowledge in the workings of digital technologies. Pandemic. Empower is looking to help any individuals This exclusion has increased more than ever during affected by the pandemic by reaching out to the community the COVID-19 crisis as the community continues social to assist in providing meals for those who are the most distancing restrictions. vulnerable.

As educational and social supports have moved online, To do this, Empower is asking people who can to donate to this has caused a Digital Divide for children and young this initiative so as to raise enough money to provide this people from disadvantaged families, particularly those service to as many people as possible. With the enormous generosity of the public in donating the cost of these meals will be covered for those who simply cannot afford to avail of the service every day to feed themselves and/or their family.

The cost of a single delivered meal is €5. The goal is to raise €10,000 which will allow Empower to deliver 2,000 meals. This joint venture will support the provision of meals and deliveries to those who are most in need across a wider area.

Adeline O’ Brien, CEO of Empower, said: “As a member of the Fingal Covid-19 Community Call Forum, Empower is doing its part to help the Fingal community during this health crisis. We are supporting two services to the community, Connect & Include which will address digital poverty for families across Fingal and Donate a Plate which will provide meals for those in our community who are cocooning at this time.”

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 6 Newsdesk

Leader Partnership assists response effort

he Fingal Leader Partnership is community is the Care & Repair Some of the jobs that the Care & Ta member of the Fingal Covid-19 Programme. Repair programme is providing now Community Response Forum which are: came together to provide support The Care & Repair Programme was Grocery pick up to the Fingal community during the established by Age Action to carry Prescription pick up Covid-19 crisis. Alongside several out minor repairs for older and Gardening, such as cutting the other community organisations vulnerable people free of charge, grass Fingal Leader Partnership is helping to give them access to reliable Logistic support those most vulnerable at this time tradesmen for larger jobs and Minor DIY by providing the logistics to reach to provide a befriending service. people where they need to be This service is now being used to Eilis Harrington, CEO of Fingal reached. provide grocery or prescription pick Leader Partnership, said: “We were up for people cocooning as well delighted to be asked to be part The mission of Fingal LEADER as the continued minor DIY work of the Fingal Covid-19 Community Partnership is to promote local such as cutting the grass where it is Response Forum so that we could development and social inclusion needed. do our part in tackling the health across County Fingal north of the emergency. We are delighted N2, and in the rest of Rural Dublin. The Care & Repair programme has that we can do our bit in helping LEADER normally run numerous been in operation for some time those most vulnerable in our programmes to promote local and anyone can ring up to ask for communities and through our Care development and one of the assistance during the year. Through & Repair programme we can reach programmes they offer to the this service the Partnership those who most need them.”

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 7 Newsdesk

Members of the Civil Defence are assisting with the Community Call efforts. Civil Defence and Fingal Volunteer Centre answer the Community Call

he Fingal Community Response were involved in assisting the safeguarding, and Garda Vetting. TForum has spearheaded Irish Blood Transfusions Service Daiga Martins Borges of the Centre the effort to assist the county’s in Fingallians GAA Club over three said: “Over 900 volunteers from communities during the Covid-19 consecutive evenings.” across Fingal have registered with pandemic. Fingal Volunteer Centre to assist Supporting the maintenance of specifically with Covid19. Dublin Civil Defence has been a vital blood transfusion services during “We also realise that due to the part of this initiative, drawing on the pandemic is an example of the wonderful but substantial number a long tradition and experience in very necessary work that voluntary of people wanting to help, volunteer volunteer mobilisation. and community organisations have opportunities may be limited and engaged in as part of the Fingal not everyone can leave home to With 125 volunteers per week either Community Response Forum. volunteer.” hailing from or operating within the Fingal area, Civil Defence have been One organisation instrumental in To fill this gap the Fingal Volunteer active in providing transport for making such efforts possible is the Centre is working with groups to hospital appointments and deliveries Fingal Volunteer Centre. Its role is to develop roles that can be carried of medicine and food products. recruit and place volunteers within out from the volunteer’s own home organisations to fill volunteering roles home. This has been called ‘virtual Dublin Civil Defence Officer James arising directly in relation to Covid19 volunteering’ and ‘microvolunteering’, McConnell explained: “Over the last and with existing organisations and is associated with the hashtag two weeks we have been involved in that provide support to vulnerable #volunteerfromhome. providing various services to the HSE, members of the community. including assisting in setting up test Daiga added: “If you are a volunteer centres and transport of up to 1000 In addition, the Centre plays a role wanting to help or organisation tests to labs per day. in advising and assisting volunteer- seeking volunteers please involving organisations on volunteer contact us on 018991921 or www. “Volunteers from our Swords unit management best practice, volunteerfingal.ie.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 8 Newsdesk COUNCIL ENGAGING WITH BUSINESSES OVER RATES DEFERRAL ingal County Council is Fcontinuing to engage with businesses impacted by the current COVID-19 crisis following the announcement by the Government that local authorities should agree to defer rates payments from the most immediately impacted businesses until the end of May.

Small and medium-sized businesses in Fingal having difficulties with their rate payments should contact their rates collector to discuss the matter and agree an appropriate arrangement. Ratepayers that can continue to pay their outstanding rates should continue to do so in the normal way.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan O’Brien, said the opportunity to defer would be a help to small businesses trying to survive the current crisis. “This is very provide a safe environment for Siochána, one of country’s good news for the butchers, the their customers. They are an three Principal Response publicans, the hairdressers, the important part of the community Agencies and we are involved café-owners and other small and we need to keep them going,” in the co-ordinated response business-owners who are battling said the Mayor. to the current emergency while to survive the current crisis. We we also continue to provide are fortunate in Fingal to have The deferral of some rate critical services in areas such as ratepayers who are in a position payments will have implications housing and homelessness. We to maintain their payments, but for the Council in terms of are already dealing with small I am very aware that there are a cash flow and Chief Executive businesses who have approached lot of smaller businesses that are AnnMarie Farrelly said that she us seeking a deferral and we will struggling and need all the help will be trying to minimise the continue to deal with affected they can get. impact on the delivery of critical rate-payers on a case by case services basis while at the same time “People also need to support maintaining as many of our 380 those small businesses that have “Local Authorities are, along services as possible,” said Ms managed to stay open and still with the HSE and An Garda Farrelly.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 9 Newsdesk FINGAL’S LEO HELPING BUSINESSES SURVIVE COVID-19

ingal Local Enterprise Office In addition, LEOs have also moved they can assess their options and F(LEO) has been at the forefront in most of the training programmes, make the best decisions.” the implementation of urgent and workshops and networking online, actions to help address the crisis local making them as accessible as possible Speaking on the importance of businesses face. for those working remotely. LEO engaging with your Local Enterprise Fingal is now offering programmes Office, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan An expansion of the €2,500 Trading in leading your business through O’Brien said: “Most of the businesses Online Voucher Scheme through the COVID-19 emergency; cashflow in Fingal are SMEs and provide a lot Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), management during a crisis; of jobs, so it is important they get for businesses employing up to developing an ecommerce strategy; every support they can. The Local 10 people has been announced. A adopting lean six-sigma work Enterprise Office is there to support substantial reduction in interest rates practices; and managing remote Fingal businesses and will be a on MFI loans was also announced, teams. valuable resource for our SMEs in bringing the rate down to 4.5%, where More details about small business the weeks and months ahead as they applications are made through LEO supports available through LEO Fingal deal with this unprecedented crisis”. Fingal COVID-19 Business Loans of can be found at www.locaenterprise. up to €50,000 are available from MFI ie/Fingal, and by emailing info@leo. Chief Executive of Fingal County with no repayments and no interest fingal.ie. Council, Ms. AnnMarie Farrelly, charged in the first six months, for A guide to LEO supports nationwide concluded: “It is important that eligible businesses that employ less can be found at LocalEnterprise. business owners and operators know than 10 people. ie/Response, along with details of that the LEO Office is still supporting Enterprise Ireland supports. them and their services during this The Business Continuity Voucher, emergency. They have changed focus worth up to €2,500 in third party Speaking on measures to address from assisting businesses to grow, to consultancy support, is another new the COVID-19 emergency, the Chair helping them survive and protect as measure available for businesses of the LEO Network and Head of many jobs as possible.” through LEOs. It is designed for Enterprise in Fingal, Oisín businesses across every sector that said: “We have responded decisively More details about small business employ up to 50 people and can be to this immediate challenge through supports available through LEO used by companies and sole traders the implementation of urgent Fingal can be found at www. to develop short-term and long- and necessary actions focused on locaenterprise.ie/Fingal, and by term strategies. The goal is to help addressing the crisis to our SMEs. emailing [email protected]. companies make informed decisions Businesses need to know there is A guide to LEO supports nationwide about what immediate measures and support available to them and we can be found at LocalEnterprise. remedial actions should be taken, to are working with many businesses ie/Response, along with details of protect staff and sales. impacted to provide sound advice so Enterprise Ireland supports.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 10 Newsdesk

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 11 Newsdesk

Swords Castle

ingal County Council lit up six iconic Fbuildings across the county as part of the FINGAL SHINES national initiative to shine a light for all the sick, frontline workers and anyone affected by Covid-19.

A BRIGHT LIGHT The buildings lit up included four heritage properties – Swords Castle, Bremore Castle, Ardgillan Castle and the Casino in Malahide – as well as County Hall in Swords and the Civic Offices in Blanchardstown.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan O’Brien, who attended the lighting up of Swords Castle along with the Director of Economic Enterprise and Tourism Development, Emer O’Gorman, and members of Fingal County Council’s Emergency Management Unit, praised the initiative.

“I think the idea of shining a light for everybody affected by the Covid-19 pandemic is an excellent idea and it sends out the message that across Fingal and across Ireland County Hall we are all united in the fight against this virus.”

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 12 Newsdesk

Civic Offices, Blanchardstown Casino, Malahide

Ardgillan Castle

Bremore Castle

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 13 Newsdesk Housing Department providing supports ingal County Council’s Housing FDepartment is continuing to provide services across its range of Housing Support and Tenancy Services sections.

For those who may have queries in relation to their accommodation circumstances, please find a helpful guide below.

The Council will continue to provide services such as:

HOUSING SUPPORT: Fingal County Council provides social housing support for people who can’t provide a home for them- selves. You can apply for a house in the Fingal area and if you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll be HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENT Please be aware that while phone placed on the Housing Waiting List. (HAP): lines are operational, it will be An approved applicant with Fingal necessary to prioritise urgent or HOUSING LOANS: County Council may submit a re- emergency works, including those Mortgage still needs to be paid as quest for approval for the Housing related to electricity, heat and wa- normal. Any difficulties can be dis- Assistant Payment (HAP). Please ter. All other maintenance queries cussed with the mortgage support contact Fingal County Council’s will be addressed on a staged basis, team by contacting [email protected] HAP Section (01-8704515 or email: once emergency works are com- [email protected]) and an Eligibility pleted. HOUSING RENTS: Assessment Form will be issued to Rent still needs to be paid as nor- you. ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR mal, proportional to a household’s As a local authority Fingal Coun- income. If you have temporarily HOMELESS SERVICES: ty Council will continue to do its lost work, you may be temporarily Please be assured that the Home- utmost to deal with the problem assessed for rent based on So- less Services team still are available. of anti-social behaviour. All reports cial Welfare payments until your We would ask that you connect with relating to serious anti-social be- employment situation becomes us by phone, post or e-mail and haviour and criminality should also clearer. the Homeless Support Team will be be reported to An Garda Síochána. available to assist you at this time HOUSING LETTINGS: Please see our website at https:// Please be assured, the Letting ESTATE MANAGEMENT SERVICES: www.fingal.ie/news/housing-sup- Process is active, and we wish to Fingal’s Maintenance Department port-and-tenancy-services to get re-assure you the Council has not are contactable via 01 890 5588 further information on these stopped allocating properties. and via e-mail estatemanagement@ services. fingal.ie.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 14 Newsdesk Online services at Fingal Libraries have something for everyone ingal Libraries may be BORROWBOX - EBOOKS Fclosed In line with Govern- AND EAUDIO ment but that doesn’t mean BorrowBox, from Bolinda, Top 10 Kids Reads! there’s not lots to do. offers a huge range of adult and junior eBooks and eAu- 1. Harry 6. The All our eservices are still be diobooks. You can access this Potter Witches available at https://fingal.ie/ service via our website. and the Roald Dahl fingallibraries. Head to our Philosopher’s website to find out how you PRESSREADER Stone J.K. can use our e-services during Access over 7,000 digital news- Rowling this period. papers and magazines from all As a member of Fingal Librar- over the world. 2. Diary of a 7. Dork ies, you have access to plenty Wimpy Kid Diaries of digital resources. These RB DIGITAL MAGAZINES - Rachel Wrecking Ball Renée include: Huge range of the latest - Jeff Kinney Russell magazines available for you to TOUCH-TYPE READ enjoy free. AND SPELL: TTRS is a multi-sensory online RB COMICS course assisting students of all Free access to a huge range of 3 The Lion, 8.The the Witch and 117-Storey ages to learn at their own pace top-quality comics & graphic the Wardrobe Treehouse, in the library or at home. TTRS novels, including Marvel & IDW - C. S. Lewis - Andy helps with reading, writing, titles. Griffiths spelling and computer skills useful for those with literacy TRANSPARENT difficulties, dyslexia, dyspraxia, LANGUAGES ONLINE ASD, ADHD, working memory Free access to online language 4. Bad Dad 9. The and processing weaknesses. courses. - David Bed and Walliams Breakfast Star FREEGAL MUSIC: UNIVERSAL CLASS - Jacqueline Freegal Music is our digital Over 500 courses on a range Wilson music service from Fingal of subjects from Accounting Libraries. We offer you access and Bookkeeping to Spiritual to 15 million songs, including Studies. 5. War Horse 10. Lily at Sony Music’s catalogue of - Michael Lissadell legendary artists. You also get ARTISTWORKS Morpurgo - Judi Curtin access to over 40,000 music Free Music and Art lessons videos. Streaming is unlimited - members can access high and you can download up to 5 quality instructed music and tracks per week. art lessons online free.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 15 Newsdesk Businesses urged to donate PPE gear usinesses across Fingal have been Burged to answer the Community Call against Covid-19 by donating Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for use by Community Call volunteers.

The Fingal Community Call Forum, in a joint initiative with Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce and Fingal County Council’s Economic Enterprise and Tourism Development Department, are seeking donations of new and unused PPE for the volunteers who are engaged in carrying out services such as grocery and prescription deliveries to vulnerable citizens and older people who are cocooning.

There is a need for face masks, gloves (small, medium and large sizes), face public and other public sectors. donated. These face shields have shields, goggles and hand sanitiser. been delivered to the National Offers of donations can be placed Fingal County Council was also Ambulance Service in Swords and through the Covid Support telephone pleased to donate raw materials will be distributed around the numbers of 01-8905000 or 1800 459 that will be used to create PPE face country as needed. 059 or by email to [email protected]. shields for frontline workers. A group of volunteers from across Fingal Libraries have also Fingal County Council will arrange Ireland are putting their skills to use answered the call to help out, pick-up of the donations from donors creating 3D-printed plastic visors with Blanchardstown Library and delivery to Community Call which can be worn over normal supplying two 3D printers to volunteers. glasses and facemasks for an added SurfBox along with libraries

layer of defence. in Kildare, South Dublin and The appeal to the county’s businesses Kilkenny. Blanchardstown Library’s comes after Fingal County Council Local 3D printing volunteer Paul contribution will increase Surfbox’s donated 30,000 items of PPE to Quinn is creating face shields with production of face shields. Beaumount Hospital, loaned two 3D A4 acetate sheets the Council has printers to Surfbox for use in PPE production, and donated acetate sheets for face shield production by a volunteer 3D printer.

The consignment to Beaumont Hospital comprised of face masks and protective suits which has provided vital protection for staff caring for those most in need of medical attention. It was greatly appreciated by hospital staff who said they had been overwhelmed by the kindness, generosity and support shown to them by the

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 16 Newsdesk Ancient skeletal remains found in Swords Park ingal County Council have acted possible. The National Monuments site have the potential to provide Fquickly to secure the site where Service of the Department of valuable insights for archaeologists historical skeletal remains were Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and historians when a full study discovered in a Swords park. and the National Museum of Ireland can be done.” will advise and support. Locals out walking in River Valley Ms. Baker is well aware of the Park, Swords were amazed to see There were some concerns with wealth of archaeological remains the exposed remains on the banks regard to a lack of Social Distancing which lie beneath the open spaces of the Ward River. as passers-by stopped to look at of our housing estates and public the site, and Fingal County Council parks. An Garda Síochána were alerted reminds people of the importance but following an examination by a of following Government guidelines In 2019 she conducted the “What forensic anthropologist the remains and Public Health advice in relation Lies Beneath: Fingal Geophysical were confirmed as ancient and the to this at all times. Survey Project” with the local focus shifted to the protection of the community to help discover the site until further investigations could Commenting on the discovery, sub-surface remains in Fingal take place. Christine Baker, Fingal Heritage parks and also raise awareness Officer, said: “The site where the of archaeological sites of interest. Christine Baker Fingal County remains were found is a recorded She has also directed community Council Archaeologist inspected the monument and archaeologists archaeology excavations at Swords site on Tuesday morning along with from the National Monuments Castle, Bremore Castle, Naul and archaeologists from the National Service excavated six skeletons the Drumanagh Promontory Fort. Museum of Ireland. Due to the there in 1999. These were medieval present COVID-19 directives the site in date and now riverbank erosion The site has been secured by Fingal cannot be excavated and has been has caused another skeleton to be County Council Operations team. secured until such time as this is exposed. These remains and the

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 17 Newsdesk Commencement of additional interim works to combat coastal erosion in Portrane n response to ongoing serious coastal erosion Iproblems at The Burrow Beach, Portrane, Fingal County Council is implementing additional Interim emergency measures to protect at risk sections of the coastline there with an estimated costs of €900,000.

Fingal County Council has engaged contractors to install an additional 800 ”SeaBee” reinforced concrete units along the beach in Portrane above the Mean High Water Level. The “SeaBees” are designed to reduce the force of waves impacting the coastline during stormy conditions.

Members of the Fingal Coastal Liaison Group, comprising local councillors and members of communities affected by coastal erosion, were briefed about the project in recent weeks and are supportive of the additional measures.

Installation will be carried out during April and early May. It should be noted that these works are considered critical in the context of the COVID-19 restrictions and associated construction exemptions apply. The works will be progressed in line with the HSE recommendations and requirements. Three lines of “SeaBee” units will be placed along the ARTS OFFICE Beach to protect an additional 565 linear meters of the coastline vulnerable to erosion during storms and high tides. LAUNCHES Fingal County Council has had extensive engagement with the Office of Pubic Works (OPW) and the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) in relation to the emergency measures. The Council is applying to the “LET’S STAY OPW for grant funding to cover the cost of the works. In addition to these Emergency Works, consultants TOGETHER” appointed by Fingal County Council have prepared ver the coming Event took place a plan to address significant and long-term Coastal Change in the Rogerstown Outer Estuary including Oweeks Fingal Arts last Thursday, to be the Rush coastline. Due to the ecological sensitivity of Office as part of its streamed through our the site and the complexity of the issues involved, it is “Let’s Stay Together social media platforms. likely that the assessment of this plan which will include extensive public consultation, environmental evaluation campaign” will present and the relevant consent processes will take over a year several projects online Fingal Arts will be to complete. through its digital participating with the media platforms Covid-19 Community including ongoing Support Helpline on a clinics with Artists and 7-days-a-week basis, Communities, alongside while continuing to work a schedule of live and on our objectives as recorded elements set out in our recently announced weekly. published Arts Strategy 2019 – 2025: Connecting The programme launch People and Ideas and

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 18 Newsdesk

Bringing Fingal to Life and in turn our artists Fingal Sports Office creates a Through the Arts. can continue to bring The Fingal Arts Office is positivity and hope to series of at-home workout videos dedicated to delivering our communities.” he Fingal Sports to provide variety in the our programme of work TOffice has released a exercises and provide and are available to Programme Information: series of home workout new challenges to our stakeholders and Clinics for artists and videos to help people people while at home. communities. It hopes communities are being exercise and keep fit for a full return as soon held every Wednesday during the current crisis. Alongside the workout as it is safe to do so, as 11am – 12noon,. These Five videos have been sessions the Sports we understand that art meetings must be released so far, showing office has also created remains a vital part of booked in advance to the how to perform the Skill Session videos people’s lives. relevant areas: perfect chair squat, setting out skill Professional Artists: leg raises, push ups, challenges for people to Mayor of Fingal Cllr Sarah O’Neill – shoulder presses, bicep test themselves against Eoghan O’Brien said: [email protected] / curls and more. and learn a new physical “This initiative from the 018906237 skill in the process. Fingal Arts Office is an Youth & Education: Julie We need to keep up with innovative way to bring Clarke – julie.clarke@ our physical exercise Now more than ever people together through fingal.ie / 01 890 5960 while we are going it is important to keep the arts. The Arts Public Art: through social distancing up your fitness not Office is contributing Caroline Cowley – or self-isolation. These just for your physical to the wellbeing of caroline.cowley@fingal. Home Workout Video health but also for families, individuals and ie / 01 870 8449 Series have great step- your mental wellbeing. communities by showing Community Sector: by-step instructions on Following both the that creativity can Rory O’Byrne – simple exercises you can Workout Sessions and strengthen community [email protected] / do in your own home. Skill sessions can add to in Fingal.” 01 890 5099 We hope you have been your routine during the following our great day and give you goals to Fingal County Council Live / recorded videos and enjoying the strive towards. Director of Housing & programme of exercises. Community Margaret performances, talks, You can follow all our Geraghty warmly projects and tutorials Each video gives a new sessions here on the welcomed this initiative will be announced every workout session for Healthy Fingal Learning saying that: “Now more Monday and will be aired people to follow at home Portal: https://learning. than ever it is important every Thursday at 11am with different exercises fingal.ie/course/view. to support our artists, -12pm. for each session. This is php?id=136 INFORMATION GUIDES FOR COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY GROUPS LAUNCHED he Department of Rural and • Information leaflet “You, Your An email helpdesk facility is TCommunity Development has Community and COVID-19” available to assist you with produced a Communications • How can I volunteer? advice or queries and is open information pack for commu- • Sensible volunteering – Do’s seven days a week – C&VSup- nity and voluntary groups and and Don’ts [email protected] members of the public as part of • Advice for local community its response to COVID-19. groups – how can we get volun- And just a reminder that the HSE teers? website is the key source for This pack contains: • Advice for vulnerable people health advice: www.hse.ie/coro- • Department of Rural and Com- who need supports navirus. It also includes posters munity Development COVID-19 • How to guard against fraud and other resources that can be Government Action Plan to Sup- and generate trust used in your community. port the Community Response

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 19 Newsdesk Housebound PHOTOS FROM library service to AROUND FINGAL Main photo: A view from Portrane; High be reintroduced Rock, between Malahide and Portmarnock; Portrane beach; Ardgillan Demesne; Skerries across Fingal Mills; Newbridge Demesne; & Broadmeadow Estuary. issing a good read? The MHousebound library service is planning a resumption of services to residents who are currently cocooning. The service will deliver books to your door observing all current Health and Safety and HSE guidelines in relation to social distancing.

There is a wide range of books available including fiction and non-fiction books across a variety of subjects. We also have talking books, large print books and a large selection of childrens’ books. Library staff will pick and pack books based on your preferences and up to 15 items can be borrowed at any time.

Don’t worry if you’re not a member of Fingal libraries or you haven’t used the library in a long time, staff will look after the details.

Call the Fingal COVID-19 Community Helpline on 1-800- 459-059 any day between 8am and 8pm to register.

Due to restrictions on travel during this time, we may not be able to fulfil specific requests but if you have a favourite author, subject matter or type of book e.g detective or romance we can help.

Meanwhile, Fingal Libraries has recorded a 52 per cent increase in demand for its e-services since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis. E-services, including audiobooks, e-books, newspapers, magazines and music streaming service have proved incredibly popular since the branch network closed at the beginning of the outbreak.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 20 Newsdesk

Council commences public consultation on proposed traffic calming schemes

ingal County Council has Fcommenced a public consultation In the Swords-Balbriggan Operational process on proposed traffic calming area, the following works are schemes it is planning to roll out across proposed: Donabate - Carrs Mill/ Fingal. Rahillion - 3 No. Traffic Calming Ramps; Swords - Brackenstown Road - 2 No. Measures are being proposed for a Traffic Calming Ramps; Donabate-Jn of total of 12 roads in Donabate, Swords, Portrane Rd/Beaverstown Rd/Ballisk Rush, Castleknock, Blanchardstown, Lane -1 Traffic Calming Raised Table Ongar, Malahide, Sutton and Junction Ramp; Rush - The Avenue at St Portmarnock. The work includes the Catherine’s National School - 2 Traffic provision of traffic calming ramps, Calming Ramps appropriate road signage and markings where necessary. Representations in relation to the Schemes may be made in writing to: The public consultation process has Senior Executive Officer, Balbriggan now commenced and the plans, which Swords Area, Operations Department, will only be available online due to the Fingal County Council, Grove Road, Covid-19 restrictions, can be viewed at Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 not later https://consult.fingal.ie/en/browse. than 4.30pm on Friday, May 22.

In the Dublin 15 area, the following In the Malahide-Howth Operational works are proposed: Castleknock Drive area, the following works are – 2 Traffic Calming Ramps; Glenville proposed: Strand Road, Sutton – Road, Blanchardstown – 3 Traffic 1Traffic Calming Ramp & 1 Set of Traffic Calming Ramps; Manorsfield Road, Calming Speed Cushions; Back Road, Ongar – 4 Sets of Traffic Calming Speed at Castlefield Malahide – 1 Traffic Cushions; Barnwell Road, Ongar – 1 Calming Table Top Ramp; Station Road, Traffic Calming Ramp; Diswellstown Portmarnock – 2 Sets of Traffic Calming Road, Castleknock -1 Traffic Calming Speed Cushions. Ramp. Representations in relation to the above Schemes may be made online Representations in relation to the at https://consult.fingal.ie or in schemes may be made in writing to: writing to: Administrative Officer, Administrative Officer, Castleknock- Howth-Malahide Operational Area, Mulhuddart Area, Operations Operations Department, Fingal County Department, Fingal County Council, Council, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin Dublin 15 no later than 4.30pm on 15 not later than 4.30p. on Tuesday. Tuesday, May 26. May 26.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 21 Newsdesk County Hall hosted Irish musicians during Seachtain na Gaeilge

rior to the Covid-19 restrictions, Fingal County PCouncil hosted a night of traditional Irish music, as part of celebrating Seachtain na Gaeilge. Musicians Paudie O’Connor, Aoife Ní Chaoimh and Caoimhín Ó Fearghail performed in County Hall along with musicians from Craobh Sean Treacy Comhaltas.

Paudie O Connor and Aoife Ní Chaoimh are an accordion and fiddle duet from County Kerry. Their music is heavily influenced by The Sliabh Lauchra musical tradition of East Kerry and North Cork. Caoimhín Ó Fearghail is a multi-instrumentalist who comes from An Rinn in the west Waterford Gaeltacht. Caoimhín was the 2012 recipient of the TG4 Young Musician of the Year award (Gradam Ceoil TG4).

The night started off with music and song from the very talented young musicians of Craobh Sean Treacy Comhaltas. Paudie O Connor, Aoife Ní Chaoimh and Caoimhín Ó Fearghail then performed an array of wonderful been working to revive the good hosting events and Irish tunes and songs including standard of Irish I had when I was Pop up Gaeltachts at festivals. Midstream and the Letter Home. at school, so I can use it with my Events like tonight provide a The attendance included Mayor children who I will be sending to a great way for our community of Fingal Cllr Eoghan O’Brien Gaelscoil.” to celebrate the Irish language and Fingal County Council Chief as well as enjoy this wonderful Executive AnnMarie Farrelly. Fingal County Council Chief traditional music.” Executive AnnMarie Farrelly During his opening speech said: “Fingal County Council is The concert was one of several in Irish, Mayor of Fingal Cllr. committed to supporting the Irish Language activities that took Eoghan O’Brien spoke about the promotion of the Irish Language place in Fingal for Seachtain na importance of the Irish Language within the Council and the County. Gaeilge with events in Swords to him saying: “The Irish language To this end we provide training Castle, Ardgillan Demesne and is very important to me as it is for staff to ensure that they can in Fingal County Libraries. Local at the heart of our culture. Over provide a quality Irish language community groups also organised the last number of years, I have service, as well as organising and events throughout the county.

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 22 FINGAL KEPT ST PATRICK’S DAY FLAG FLYING HIGH he community of Fingal Tcelebrated St Patrick’s Day in unique fashion this year overcoming restrictions imposed by the Coronavirus crisis that saw the curtailment of festivities on our national holiday.

Fingal County Council’s Events Team, whose plans for parades across Fingal were cancelled, instead organised a Virtual St. Patrick’s Day Parade that invited people across the county to post pictures of how they were celebrating the day.

Hundreds of residents across Fingal got involved in the fun initiative, sharing images and Lambourne Residents Association; videos from the day, including Edel Woods, Swords; mini - but elaborate - St Patrick’s Annabel Fitzgerald, Portmarnock; Day parades around living rooms Amy Lawson, Tyrellstown; and gardens as well as numerous Emma Jameson, Lusk; displays of window art, funny Karina Russell, Rush. costumes and displays. Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Eoghan All contributors were entered into O’Brien said: “A huge thank you to a raffle for a €100 One4All gift card all who entered and got involved with prizes awarded to the seven in our Virtual St. Patrick’s Day best contributions. which showed great community spirit during this challenging time. The winners were: At this time of national crisis, can Fiona McGarrigle along with her I remind people to please follow children Garreth and baby Rya HSE guidelines and help keep each from Balbriggan; other safe.”

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 23 Your Councillors

Local Electoral Areas

1 2 3 4 5 6 Balbriggan Rush- Lusk

7 8 9 10 11 12

Swords 13 14 15 16 17 18 Howth- Malahide Ongar 19 20 21 22 23 24 Blanchardstown - Mulhuddart Castleknock

25 26 27 28 29 30

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

Balbriggan 9. Cllr. Cathal Boland james.humphreys@cllrs. Castleknock 33. Cllr. Daniel Whooley Independent fingal.ie Green Party 1. Cllr.Tony Murphy [email protected] 083 8560832 25. Cllr Emer Currie [email protected] Independent 086 257 7672 Fine Gael 087 397 8024 [email protected] Howth - Malahide [email protected] 086 277 2030 085 8161306 34. Cllr. Kieran Dennison 10. Cllr. Paul Mulville Fine Gael 2. Cllr. Grainne Social Democrats 18. Cllr. Eoghan O’Brien 26. Cllr. Ted Leddy [email protected] Independent [email protected] Fianna Fáil Fine Gael 087 259 5949 [email protected] 086 378 7395 [email protected] [email protected] 087 943 6650 086 858 0562 087 327 6630 35. Cllr. Aaron O’Rourke Swords Sinn Féin 3. Cllr. Seána Ó Rodaigh 19. Cllr. David Healy 27. Cllr. John Walsh aaron.orourke @cllrs.fingal.ie Labour Party 11. Cllr. Darragh Butler Green Party Labour Party 087 7042783 [email protected] Fianna Fáil [email protected] [email protected] Blanchardstown- 085 831 3801 [email protected] 087 617 8852 087 648 6228 087 959 5378 Mulhuddart 4 Cllr. Tom O’Leary 20. Cllr. Brian Mc Donagh 28. Cllr. Howard Mahony 36. Cllr. Mary McCamley Fine Gael 12. Cllr. Ian Carey Labour Party Fianna Fáil Labour Party [email protected] Green Party brian.@cllrs.fingal.ie [email protected] [email protected] 087 245 9897 [email protected] 086 385 8979 087 0506146 087 650 1441 086 307 4004 29. Cllr. Natalie Treacy 5. Cllr Karen Power 21. Cllr. Jimmy Guerin Sinn Féin 37. Cllr. Breda Hanaphy Green Party 13. Cllr. Dean Mulligan Independent [email protected] Sinn Féin [email protected] Independents4Change [email protected] 085 128 5493 [email protected] 089 965 4529 [email protected] 086 014 3346 087 162 0917 087 966 6260 30. Cllr. Pamela Conroy Rush- Lusk 22. Cllr. Aoibhinn Tormey Green Party 38. Cllr. John Burtachaell 14. Cllr. Joe Newman Fine Gael [email protected] Solidarity 6. Cllr. Robert O’Donoghue Independent aoibhinn.tormey@cllrs. 086 8462891 Labour Party [email protected] fingal.ie [email protected] robert.odonoghue@cllrs. 087 245 7729 087 754 6258 087 102 9372 fingal.ie Ongar 23. Cllr. Anthony Lavin 083 322 7472 15. Cllr. Brigid Manton 39. Cllr. Punam Rane Fine Gael Fianna Fáil Fine Gael [email protected] 7. Cllr. Adrian Henchy [email protected] 31. Cllr. Tania Doyle [email protected] 087 993 1329 Fianna Fáil 086 247 6596 Independent 089 254 4372 [email protected] 24. Cllr. Joan Hopkins [email protected] 087 681 4485 16. Cllr. Ann Graves Social Democrats 085 780 9292 40. Cllr. Freddie Cooper Sinn Féin [email protected] Fianna Fáil 8. Cllr. Brian Dennehy [email protected] 083 1031541 32 Cllr. Tom Kitt [email protected] Fianna Fáil 087 272 4359 Fianna Fáil 087 052 5628 [email protected] [email protected] 085 229 8201 17. Cllr. James Humphreys 086 199 5801 Labour Party

Fingal News Issue No 14 April 2020 24