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Tallaght Stone Centreheadstones crafted for all cemeteries
Belgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24.
Our Comprehensive Services Include:♦ headstones ♦ inscriptions ♦ renovations ♦ chippings
♦ re-lettering ♦ counter tops ♦ house names ♦ granite estate signs
Tel: (01) 462 6200 Fax: (01) 462 6209email: [email protected] web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie
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Ballyowen Castle, Ballyowen Shopping Centre, Lucan, Co. Dublin. Call 01 - 6105 185 or 01 6760 555
6th July 2020
SHOCK AS HELLFIRE DEVELOPMENT IS
APPROVEDIn recent days An Bord Pleanála (ABP) has approved planning permission for the development of the Hellfire Club site, a plan proposed by South Dublin County Council.
The decision has sparked a wave of disappointment and shock throughout the local community. Local groups including Save The Hellfire, local
residents and some local politicians are very much opposed to the development and hugely disappointed and shocked by the An Bord Pleanála decision.
Cllr Alan Edge who represents the Firhouse-B o h e r n a b r e e n a LEA commented on the decision “I’m implacably opposed to the Hellfire Development and have
been throughout the entire process. While it’s beyond doubt that more parking facilities are needed to facilitate larger numbers of people visiting these amenities, a €22 million Visitor Centre is a waste of money.
As I’ve said time and again, you don’t need a €22 million building in order to enjoy a wood.” Cllr
Edge concluded “I’m disappointed that the report of the inspector has been ignored by ABP. I’m calling on the Chief Executive to rethink this project, in light of the financial crisis in which we now find ourselves and also the massive opposition from residents of South Dublin to the proposed Visitor Centre.
A vastly scaled down intervention would be the right thing to do at this point, to facilitate access and safe parking and to provide basic amenities such as toilets. I’ll continue to support the campaign against the Dublin Mountain Visitor Centre and I hope very much that common sense will prevail and that the very real and very genuine concerns of local people will be listened to.”
According to South Dublin County Council’s website, they have welcomed the decision of An Bord Pleanála to
CONT. PAGE 2
Published by: Newsgroup, Unit 3 Floor 2 St. Dominics Shopping Centre, St. Dominics Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 HK49.
Titles: Tallaght News, Clondalkin News, Lucan News and Rathcoole & Saggart News
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grant planning permission for the Dublin Mountains Visitor Centre which was a key recommendation of the Council’s Tourism Strategy when it was adopted in 2015. The planned Dublin Mountains Visitor Centre is a joint development by South Dublin County Council, Coillte and the Dublin Mountains Partnership to create a new ‘gateway’ to the Dublin Mountains located at the
combined Massy’s Wood /Estate and Montpelier Hill incorporating the legendary Hell Fire Club site. At an estimated cost of €15 million, the centre will be constructed from natural materials and integrated into the landscape setting with extensive panoramic views of Dublin City.
The inspectors report can be viewed on www.pleanala.ie/casenum/JA0040.htm
SHOCK AS HELLFIRE DEVELOPMENT IS APPROVED
...... CONT’D FROM PAGE 1
LUCAN DISABILITY ACTION GROUP TO RECEIVE €75,725 TO PROVIDE ESSENTIAL SERVICES DURING COVID-19
Community and Voluntary Organisations, Charities and Social Enterprises across Dublin will receive funding to help vulnerable citizens during Covid-19, said Fine Gael TD Emer Higgins.
“I am delighted that €10.5 million has been allocated under Tranche One of the COVID-19 Stability Fund to a total of 179 organisations that provide critical services to those most vulnerable in society. “The COVID-19 Stability Fund is intended to be a targeted once-off cash injection for organisations and groups delivering critical front-line
services to the most at need in our society and in danger of imminent closure due to lost fund-raised or traded income as a direct result of restrictions to counter the spread of COVID-19.
“There was considerable interest in the Stability Scheme, and the funding being announced today is the first tranche, with further tranches due to be announced in the coming weeks. Community and Voluntary organisations, along with Charities and Social Enterprises in our area have gone above and beyond in their
response to the challenges presented by this pandemic and to assisting those most vulnerable in our communities. “These organisations continued to carry out their essential
work while restrictions stalled much activity and I, along with my colleagues in Government, commend them for that. For that reason, I am delighted that Lucan Disability
Action Group are one of the organisations selected and will receive €75,725 in funding to provide services. It is a wonderful organisation that aims to facilitate and promote independent living for people with disabilities around Lucan, Palmerstown and Clondalkin. The work they have done and the support they have provided
during the pandemic has been outstanding. The Government recognised that organisations like Lucan Disability Action Group required help and additional resources to deliver these essential services and to cope with the inability to generate traded or fundraised income due to social restrictions.”
*Image taken pre Covid19
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NATIONAL SPRING CLEAN RESUMES IN TALLAGHT AND LUCAN
Every April, for the past 22 years, the National Spring Clean has been working with communities around the country to tackle litter in local areas and enjoy the benefits of a litter-free environment. By participating in organised clean-ups, groups and individuals come together
to act locally to make a meaningful contribution not only in their own community, but for the country as a whole.
However, in March 2020, An Taisce’s National Spring Clean asked volunteers around Ireland to postpone any clean-ups until further
notice, due to current Covid-19 crisis. On 8th of June National Spring Clean announced the resumption of the campaign and asked volunteers who wish to get involved and do their bit for the environment to follow updated health and safety guidelines. Last year there were over 430 clean-ups
organized in Dublin and this year we are heading back towards that number. Many Spring Clean clean-up events have already taken place, with lots more planned for the coming weeks.The weekend of the 13th- 14th June, the Litter Mugs volunteer group removed over 100 bags of litter from the River Dodder, 42 bags and several larger items from the riverbank at Milltown and another 55 bags of litter in Tallaght. The community of Esker Wood Residents’ Association, in Lucan, held their first National Spring Clean in over 10 years, and 60 adults and 10 kids took turns to clean-up the surrounding areas while maintaining social distance.
If you want to get involved in the National Spring Clean, register at www.nationalspringclean.org to receive your free clean-up kit and consult the new Health & Safety Guidelines.
SAGGART TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOUR HELP
Recently formed Saggart Tidy Towns oganisation is excited to be emerging from COVID-19 lockdown and is eager to make up for lost time in order to make sure their village is clean & environmentally friendly. With the investment by South Dublin County Council in the village Plaza, road resurfacing, paving etc they are keen to build on this fantastic work and make the village shine! This summer they would really
like to tackle the planters & hanging baskets that are around the village to give them a facelift and plant some beautiful flowers to brighten the village.However, in order to do this they need your help! All donations will be gratefully received and will be put to the benefit of the village and local community. They thank you in advance for your support. To donate or to get involved see facebook.com/saggarttidytowns
SPORTING PROUD TRIATHLON IN AID OF LAURA LYNN
The Sporting Proud Triathlon is going ahead on 5th of September 2020! The Triathlon has been one of the most popular and fun events in the past. Thanks to the hard work of the organising committee who are ensuring it is Covid-19 compliant, Laura Lynn expect 2020 to be another fantastic day out. So exciting to have a real live event again at last they know it will be an overwhelmingly positive and energetic day out - a celebration of coming together again after a long and challenging few months. The triathlon consists of individuals and teams of 3 on Saturday 5th of September 2020 in Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow. More information on the COVID-19 measures will follow. As always you can sign up as an individual or get your colleagues together and form a relay team of 3. All the details to register are at www.lauralynn.ie/events/sporting-proud-triathlon-2020 and 100% of your registration fee and fundraising will go to LauraLynn.
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PARKING ISSUES CLOSE TO BOHERNABREENA RESERVOIR ENTRANCE
In recent weeks there has been some local incidents of inconsiderate and dangerous parking. Cllr. Alan Edge explains “The fire brigade was on a call and was unable to get through due to this example of inconsiderate and dangerous parking.
Fortunately it wasn’t a life or death situation but it could easily have been. It’s no exaggeration to say that this parking issue is putting lives at risk. It’s not the first time an emergency vehicle has been blocked and local farmers are routinely prevented from going about their business by cars blocking the narrow country roads. The parking situation has become much worse with the increased concentration of walkers during lockdown.
” Resident have reported that drivers are on occasion
rude and aggressive when confronted about their selfish parking. The local Cllr added “I’ve been in contact with Supt Lackey and met with Community Garda Pat Courtney and I’ve also put forward a number of traffic management suggestions to the Council. A large number of vehicles are being ticketed at hot spots throughout rural Dublin South West, including in the vicinity of both entrances to the Reservoirs. The Gardai emphasise that they will continue to take appropriate action to combat illegal and dangerous parking.
I have asked the Council to look at more signage in problem areas; more double-yellows at problem spots in Glenasmole, Ballinascorney and Killakee; repainted and extended double-yellows at the Hellfire and a movable bollard at the Greenway,
opposite the Ballinascorney entrance to Kiltipper Park. And I’m also seeking clarification from Dublin City Council concerning the eccentric opening times of the Reservoir car park at the moment.”
The local Councillor concluded “I’m urging members of the public to park responsibly when enjoying the amenities of the Dublin mountains in locations such as the Reservoir and the Hellfire Club. Above all, drivers need to be more mindful and respectful of the communities that live in these areas. The important message I think is that there are so many wonderful places for walks in the mountains that people should consider driving to a different spot if there’s nowhere to park safely.
People also need to
Recent photo taken close to the upper entrance to Bohernabreena Reservoir
WEEKS ON AND THE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL SITE REMAINS CLOSED
Local TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that the debacle of the building of the National Children’s Hospital is only becoming more and more out of hand and wondered how many more twists in the tale were to come. Teachta Crowe had put questions to the Minister for Health after observing that scaffolding has been dismantled on the site, asking whether the Minister shared his concerns on any further delays to the project.
Teachta Crowe said: “It was the 18th of May when sites could reopen, six weeks ago. Since then however, the site of the National Children’s Hospital has remained closed. There has been no agreement with the developer, BAM, on when the site will reopen.“This is the same developer that the development board of the new National Children’s Hospital initiated legal
proceedings against in the Commercial Court in April. “In response to a question I put to the Department of Health, they confirmed that works ceased on the 31st of March and have not recommenced. “The developers are alleging that the designs for the Children’s Hospital are not even finished yet.“This project was estimated to cost €1.7 billion before the lockdown started, but I have not been able to get a straight answer from the Department of Health as to how much these delays will add to that already monstrous cost to the taxpayer.
“This whole debacle has only grown more and more out of hand. Clearly, the Government went into this project with no clear plans, designs or costings and, as a result, when this hospital will be built or how much it will eventually cost is completely unpredictable.”
capitalise on the fact that Tallaght is the gateway to the Dublin Mountains and that amenities such as the Reservoir Walk Can so easily be accessed on foot
from there. I’m also urging walkers also to please be respectful of private property and not to take short cuts across people’s land when enjoying all that
the Dublin Mountains have to offer and to remember that there are plenty of sheep farms in this vicinity and that dogs should be on leashes.”
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HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLEBy Brónagh Lyons
Brónagh Lyons is an inner-leadership coach, author and cofounder of Epic Hearts Club, the low-cost, high-value online coaching hub. Brónagh is passionate to provide incredible coaching content and information to everyone who wants and needs it, regardless of their circumstances. Brónagh is a regular contributor to Newsgroup.
Sometimes people say hurtful things.
Sometimes people are hurting inside, and they project that onto you. They blame you for their hurt.
They call you names.
Maybe they say hurtful things from a place of “caring”.Maybe they use passive aggressive remarks.
Or give you back handed compliments.
Their negative jibes can come in multiple forms, sometimes hidden. But the thing is, often they are not conscious of what their actual issue is. There is
usually something deep inside of them that is triggered. They are hurting.Remember this, there is NOTHING you can do to hurt/ frustrate/ annoy/ offend
someone else.
It is something within them that is triggered by you.Really take that in.
You are not responsible for other people’s feelings. And you are under no obligation to take in their hurt or pain.
You do not have to accept their hurtful words as truth about you. You don’t have to listen to what they say about you.
As the saying goes “what other people think of me is none of my business” What other people think of you is their perception based off of their life experience
up to that point, their likes and dislikes, their personality etc. It has nothing to do with you.
It is not your business.
So, the next time someone is sassy to you, you do not have to react or respond.Hurt people hurt people.It is their issue not yours.
MUSEUM ARE WELCOMING YOU BACK!
The health and safety of visitors and staff is of paramount importance to and as such, the National Museum of Ireland is re-opening on a phased basis. The NMI - Decorative Arts & History at Collins Barracks, Dublin 7 and the NMI - Country Life at Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, re-opened to visitors on the 29th June. On Monday, 20 July, they will re-open NMI - Archaeology at Kildare Street, Dublin 2, and NMI - Natural History at Merrion Street, Dublin 2. This phased reopening will ensure we can accommodate a safe and enjoyable return of visitors to our Museum sites.
Opening hours will be Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday to Monday 1pm to 5pm. Admission is free to all sites. The Museum café (takeaway only) and shop will be open during Museum opening hours. Some steps they are taking to ensure your visit is as safe and enjoyable as possible: 1. Visitor safety guidelines are in place at all of public sites. 2. Front of house staff have received health and safety training in relation to COVID-19. 3. Physical distancing provisions are in place at all the public sites. 4. Hand sanitising
stations are available for visitors and staff. 5. They have further increased our rigorous cleaning regimes. 6. They will be managing visitor numbers in line with public health and safety guidelines. 7. Some galleries/areas may be temporarily closed where physical distancing cannot be implemented. 8. They will ask visitors to adhere to maximum capacity guidelines at some galleries/areas to facilitate physical distancing. 9. Cloakroom services will be unavailable so please do not bring motorcycle helmets, suitcases or large bags into the exhibition galleries.
Before your visit… National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History or National Museum of Ireland - Country Life; Plan your visit and find out more about the Museum at museum.ie, where you can Download the new visitor guide, floorplan or an activity sheet for younger visitors. And see some top things to do at the Museum.
Not able to visit us yet? They have lots of resources available online which you can enjoy at home. Visit the Museum at Home section of www.museum.ie to access these resources.
PLANS FOR TALLAGHT INNOVATION QUARTERLocal Councillor, Charlie O’Connor, the Chairman of the Tallaght Area Committee, has welcomed the plans by South Dublin County Council for an Innovation Quarters on Town Centre lands. The
plans were the subject of a special presentation at the June meeting of the Tallaght Area Committee and Councillors were told that it would consist of: “New area called “innovation quarter” comprising – new plaza
called innovation square, new innovation centre, new school, 140 affordable apartments.
Refurbishment of chamber square at library to incorporate a seating for
outdoor cinema, more child friendly aspects, new library garden.Both areas connected by – new pedestrian friendly public realm corridor / walkway on front of county hall” Charlie O’Connor said “I am delighted to welcome this €4m investment in the city centre of Tallaght which will vastly improve the sense of place and civic pride in the area. It is a significant investment in the future of Tallaght as a vibrant city centre location and in our children’s future education and employment prospects.
I believe the new innovation quarter will become a landmark for years to come and will leave a rich
legacy this Council can be proud of.” He added that the Part 8 on the proposal will now be presented to
all Councillors at the July meeting of the Council and the plans will then go on public display.
CALL FOR GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE MASKS TO COMMUTERS
Following a decision to make face masks mandatory on public transport, the Workers’ Party has called on the government to provide masks to commuters. David Gardiner, Workers’ Party representative in Dublin Mid-West, said: “The government has a responsibility to provide people with face masks to protect public health, especially as more and more people go back to work.” “Ensuring that people have the appropriate equipment to get around will prove crucial in getting society up and running again. Failure to do this will only slow things down.” He continued, saying: “It’s one thing to call for people to wear face masks on public transport, but if you don’t actually provide those masks, you’re not actually solving the problem.” Concluding, Gardiner said: “I’m calling on the government to provide clarity on this situation, and to ensure that face masks are provided to all commuters on public transport.”
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PLANS FOR REMOTE WORKING ARE FUELLING AN UNEXPECTED SURGE IN DEMAND FOR HOUSE SALES IN THE WEEKS
Changes in the world of work are having an immediate effect on the second-hand housing market with a nationwide trend emerging of buyers looking to move 15 minutes outside of their urban location where they can get more space for the same money. Gardens, potential home office space and, crucially, broadband reliability have become the top questions to estate agents as REA agents as far afield as Killarney have reported interest in larger properties from Dublin-based viewers who plan on working from home in the future after their experiences in the lockdown. Despite fears of a downturn in the market during the Covid-19 crisis, the price of a three-bedroomed semi-detached
house across the country fell by just -0.15% over the past three months to €234,667, an annual decline of -0.56%. The REA Average House Price Survey concentrates on the actual sale price of Ireland’s typical stock home, the three-bed semi, giving an accurate picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide.
The price of a three-bedroomed semi-detached house in Dublin City remained stable at €427,167 during the past three months, an annual fall of -1.3%. There was a slight fall in north county Dublin (-0.8%) with prices decreasing by €2,500 to €310,000 driven by new homes coming on to the market in towns such as
Balbriggan. “Although sales slowed during the lockdown, they did happen and, despite fears, very few fell through or had to be renegotiated,” said REA spokesperson Anthony McGee. “The majority of our agents throughout the country have reported a release of pent-up demand since offices reopened.“We are finding that people are looking for three things – more space, gardens and a guarantee of better broadband, where transport was previously the highest priority.
“Broadband is now becoming a key selling point with agents looking to promote available wi-fi speeds on sales brochures. “Previous surveys had noted an increase in
people looking to work from a home for a number of days a week from outer suburban counties, but the experience of working full-time out of the office has changed housing demand into a nationwide search. “Enquiries around semi-detached properties have become more work-focused with attic conversions, potential home offices and the ability to install garden rooms suddenly high on people’s agendas.
“While the current outlook is positive, and there seems to be a lot of pent-up demand, it may be Q3 before we see the effect of Covid-19 on the market and on the outcome of mortgage approvals granted before the lockdown. “The numbers of enquiries are growing steadily with people reacting well to the
new rules around individual viewings, carried out in a socially distanced manner.
“Time taken to sell, unsurprisingly, increased from nine to ten weeks in Q2, with viewing and marketing processes slowed down. “This is likely to continue due to restrictions on viewings and will accelerate the need for the industry to adopt time-saving processes such as online data rooms where all documents are visible prior to marketing a property. “Covid-19 has seen an urban/rural split in the investor market with small builders looking to buy up properties in countries areas for renovation, while some landlords are leaving markets in the bigger cities due to the possibility of falling or frozen rents. “The Central Bank’s mortgage
lending restrictions has been key to maintaining a sense of calmness in what has been a robust market over the past few years.” Prices in the commuter counties fell slightly by -0.25% in the past three months, with the average house now selling at €246,944 – down €3,000 on its June 2019 average.
The most appreciable drops in the commuter areas were felt in North Wicklow where the number of new homes developments has served to slightly supress second hand values, but elsewhere the market has remained steady. The highest annual rise (0.84%) came in the country’s major cities outside Dublin – Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford, where prices remained static over the past three months at an average of €255,875.
Pictured Anthony McGee
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DOUBLING OF CALLS TO SAOIRSE WOMEN’S REFUGE DURING LOCKDOWN IN THE DÁIL
Speaking in the Dáil recently, local Fine Gael TD raised the doubling of calls to Saoirse’s women’s refuge, who provide accommodation for victims of domestic abuse in Rathcoole. She
stated: “The lockdown has been a challenge for many people. “But for victims of domestic abuse it has been hell. “Their home isn’t their sanctuary; “They find their sanctuary when they find
space away from home. “This was robbed from them for months”
Emer Higgins continued: “Many were forced into sharing cramped apartments with abusive partners night and day, almost 24/7, walking on egg shells to avoid a violent and often dangerous outburst. “I know that calls Saoirse Women’s refuge doubled in May and they are providing refuge in Rathcoole in my constituency. “Thankfully their newest refuge which opened in Rathcoole just six months ago has provided much needed sanctuary for six families. “I attended its opening with the then Minister for Children, Katherine Zappone.
“I had mixed emotions at the opening: delighted that this facility was available to those who need it but really sad that so many people need such refuge “Just as the crisis escalated, the public’s response did also. Vital funds were raised by
the release of a music video in aid of Safe Ireland by 39 Irish female singers and musicians.“Prominent tv and online ads during the lockdown did more than provide information, they provided hope. “Hope of a brighter,
safer future. “Hope that help is available and isn’t going away regardless of the crisis”
Emer Higgins concluded: “While the covid 19 crisis slowly fading, the scourge of domestic abuse is not. “It
shows no signs of abating. “The chilling statistics from a Union of Students in Ireland study released this year show shockingly high levels of sexual assault. “It’s clear we need a long term strategy to tackle this scourge head on.
Pictured Emer Higgins when Saoirse Women’s refuge in Rathcoole opened
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COLLEGE CHOICE - A DIFFERENT PATHWAY WITH BIFE
Bray Institute of Further Education are full steam ahead preparing for the new academic year and a return to relative normality in September after the unprecedented nature of the last few months with COVID-19 restrictions. While in many cases students, schools and parents see the CAO as the ‘be all and end all’ for those seeking third
level education, nothing could be further from the truth according to Gabriel Allen, deputy principal at Bray Institute of Further Education (BIFE).“Over recent years many new avenues have opened up to students to enable them pursue their dream career via a different route.” He added, “Further Education offers a learner,
who may not have achieved the required CAO points, the opportunity to gain advanced entry onto honours degree programmes, both in Ireland and abroad.” The huge range of courses available at BIFE offers learners fabulous opportunities, not only for those looking for additional skills or hoping to go directly into employment,
but also as an alternative route on to a college course in a university or institute of technology in Ireland or abroad. Over the past few years, graduates of BIFE have achieved honours degrees across a wide range of programmes, opening up a myriad of career opportunities from graphic design to performing arts to psychology. This year BIFE
BIFE staff and students visiting IT Tallaght. (BIFE have signed a formal “Access to Higher Education” agreement with IT Tallaght and a number of other IT’s).
will offer Higher National Diplomas in the following:• Fine Art - Art Practice• Acting• Dance• TV & Film (Moving Image)• Music Production • Music Performance• Applied Social Studies• Graphic Design• Fashion Design
As Gabriel Allen explained, “These nine courses will allow graduating students to proceed to the final year of an honours Degree Programme in Ireland or Britain if that is their ultimate ambition.”
Bray Institute will offer a number of new courses in September ‘20:
• Construction & Joinery •Level 5• Jewellery Making Level 5• Pharmacy Assistant Level • 5• Sports Injury & Soft Tissue Massage Therapy Level 5
• Canine Husbandry Level 5• Animal Care – Start your• own business Level 6• Equine Studies Level 5• Applied Ecology &• Biodiversity Studies Level • 5• Tour Guiding Level 6
All of the above courses will offer progression routes to higher education.
Allen assured that there are many opportunities for mature students to study and progress at BIFE. “All courses have valuable certification and offer progression routes to Higher Education, yet you don’t need CAO points to study at Bray Institute.”
Applications for September 2020 Courses are now open. Apply on-line at www.bife.ie or call the Institute any day during office hours on 01-2829668 for further information between 9am and 1pm.
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EUROSPAR LUCAN IS RECOGNISED IN RETAIL EXCELLENCE AWARDS
There has never been a more appropriate time to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in grocery retailing. EUROSPAR retailers have always taken great pride in providing the best of service to their customers and local communities and have responded brilliantly to the Covid-19 global crisis.
EUROSPAR Lucan were due to receive both a Customer First at EUROSPAR award and a Top of the Tree accolade at a gala celebration evening in March. Unfortunately, due to the health crisis, that was not possible and instead their awards were couriered to them . These awards are recognition of true retailing excellence and among the most coveted in the grocery retail industry.
Customer First @ EUROSPAR is the retail operations standards programme that has been implemented across the EUROSPAR supermarket group while the Top of the Tree awards is special recognition for outstanding retail practice across EUROSPAR’s six pillar Retail Strategy of Value, Freshness, Rewards, Choice, Service and Experience and is unanimously endorsed by their retailers. How Retailers
communicate with their shoppers and local communities has never been more important. The Covid-19 pandemic has amplified the need for all retailers to reassure their local communities that they are providing safe environments for all shoppers. EUROSPAR’s retailers have been working tirelessly to promote the importance of health and safety in their Supermarkets by producing individual videos that are being shared across their social media channels. The innovative videos are proving immensely popular and have been viewed by more than 1 million people since first being produced.
Commenting, Malachy Hanberry, Managing Director, EUROSPAR said: “EUROSPAR retailers strive for excellence in every aspect of their service to their shoppers and the local communities in which they are embedded.
In meeting the exacting standards of the Top of the Tree programme, our retailers illustrate their commitment to being industry leaders in the retail sector and their focus on exceeding customer expectations and I want to congratulate them on their achievements.”
Pictured Kazmiria Barton, David Carraig, Conor Mugan, Kevin Creegan, Ciaran Collins & Linda Geraghty pictured with their awards
THE EXTENSION OF SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAMME WELCOMEDLocal TD for Dublin Mid West has welcomed news that the Department of Education has committed to extending free school meals over the course of the summer. Deputy Ward had written to the Minister and asked for an extension for this vital service.
Teachta Ward said; “I want to welcome the news that the Department of Social Protection has agreed to extend school meals programme. “For many years we have been calling for the extension of the school meals programme to support children’s nutrition. “‘Holiday Hunger’ impacts many children and families. With the School Meals Programme normally running during a school
terms, parents without the means to do so must find a way to provide lunches - and in some cases breakfast and dinner - normally given by the school, to their children during the summer holidays’’ “I grew up in an area of social deprivation and high unemployment and I remember not only looking forward to my school lunch but also relying on it. We used to really look forward to Fridays when we got a currant bun””
“The summer months should be a time of fun and enjoyment for children. They should be given the break from the intensive education they deserve and the opportunity to experience the freedom to play, which is so vital to
their development. Instead, faced with hunger and worry about where their next meal will come from, in the past some parents and children find the summer months harder.’’ “This is has increased because of Covid during this time of high unemployment and economic uncertainty, with many families face challenging circumstances. This is why I wrote directly to the minister to extend the programme’’ “I want to commend organisations such as Barnardos and Saint Vincent De Paul, and the teachers who have been pushing for this over many years.’’
“But if we are serious about tackling nutritional issues facing school kids the
forthcoming government must go much further now’’ “Hot meals at school, common in many European countries. Every DEIS school should have access to hot meals with an objective of expanding it further. The budget is also very meagre, at around €10 per child per week compared to £15
in England or £19.50 in Wales.”
“I welcome this step which is important, but if we want to tackle child hunger in our schools, good quality hot meals have to become a regular feature of our system, not simply the exception. “I also want to
commend the extraordinary work of schools and volunteers in my local area who kept the meals going during the school closures. The provision of School meals in the form of weekly food parcels was a great example of community collaboration during this pandemic”
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MORE THAN 70% OF PATIENTS TREATED AT LOCAL SPECSAVERS DURING LOCKDOWN WERE FRONTLINE STAFF
Liffey Valley & Maynooth stores treat over 150 essential workers helping to stop the spread of COVID-19 Conor Dewey, Retail Director at Specsavers Liffey Valley & Maynooth, underlined the importance of glasses, contacts and hearing aids as he revealed that frontline workers, including nurses, doctors and care assistants, made up an overwhelming majority of the store’s clientele in recent weeks. Frontline workers, who are continuing the battle against COVID-19, have attended the emergency appointments to replace broken eyewear, collect prescriptions and carry out essential eye tests.
Conor said: “The last six weeks have been an eye-opening experience for me – treating exhausted, brave and hard-working frontline staff who have broken their glasses while saving lives or lost contact lens during long shifts; it has been truly humbling to hear their
stories and learn about the daily struggles they have been faced with. A member of the team has been in-store every week to treat these patients and I am so pleased that we were in a position to offer any kind of help to these heroes!”
Despite the challenging conditions since March, the team at Specsavers Liffey Valley has been on hand to deal with customer queries, holding more than 200 phone consultations in addition to the daily emergency appointments. A reduced team has been in place in-store to help customers with essential eyewear and hearing aids, even referring a patient for potentially life-saving treatment after an abnormal eye exam raised concerns during the pandemic. Conor said: “We are always so happy to be able to catch these health issues for patients and ensure they are seen by medical professionals as quickly as possible. It
has been an incredibly difficult time for the whole community, but we are looking forward to coming together to get things back to normal in a safe and secure way for both our staff and customers. We have always had a fantastic relationship with our community, and we want them to know that we will do whatever we can to make sure they feel comfortable coming to Specsavers.”
Stores are currently open for all appointments, which can be booked in advance over the phone or at the store. There will be smaller teams working on the floor, with social distancing measures in place at each location. Staff will continue
to run an express collection service in-store and will
adhere to strict guidelines and recommendations set
out by the Government and HSE
Coronavirus Poemby David P. Carroll
We live in a scary World today. It’s different than. Before. No more hugs
kissing. Our happiness gone away. Like never before. The virus has taken our Loved ones away. Families suffering.Like never before. The fear of the
unknown. Has arrived. The worry of what will happen. Tomorrow to you and me. Coronavirus on our mind’s. Coronavirus everywhere. Our lives in
danger.Like never before. We practice social distancing. Every day to keep the
virus. At bay as we shop in different ways. Were asked to stay at home. Like never before. When will this Virus ever go away. But I promise I’ll love and pray
for everyone. Every day.
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Home cooking
and baking
Chilli JamIngredients: 150g fresh red chilli peppers (deseeded and cut into 4 pieces)150g red peppers (cored, deseeded and cut into chunks)1 kilogram jam sugar600 millilitres cider vinegar
Method :
1) You will need 6 x 250ml with vinegar-proof lids, such as Kilner jars.2) Sterilize your jars and leave to cool.3) Put the cut-up chillies into a food processor and pulse until they are finely1) chopped. Add the chunks of red pepper and pulse again until you have a red flecked processor bowl.4) Dissolve the sugar in the vinegar in a wide, medium-sized pan over a low heat4) without stirring.5) Take the chilli-pepper mixture out of the bowl and add to the pan. Bring the pan to4) the boil, then leave it at a rollicking boil for 10 minutes.4) Take the pan off the heat and allow it cool. The liquid will become more syrupy,4) then from syrup to viscous and from viscous to jelly-like as it cools.6) After about 40 minutes, or once the red flecks are more or less evenly dispersed in4) the jelly (as the liquid firms up, the hints of chilli and pepper start being suspended 4) in it rather than floating on it), ladle into your jars. If you want to stir gently at4) this stage, it will do no harm. Then seal tightly.
Chicken Curryby Bal Krishna Shrestha
This is a very simple and home-style Nepalese Chicken Tarkari (chicken curry) which is part of Thali meals in Nepal. It consists of steam rice and is accompanied by a selection of curry (vegetarian and meat) , chutney, daal, spinach, salad and yogurt. It’s called Daal, Bhat and Tarkari in the Nepalese language. In Nepal it is eaten with either rice or roti. The fenugreek seeds used in this dish is a unique ingredient which gives the curry more Nepalese
flavor.
Preparation: 15 minutes and Cooking time: 25 minutesServe: 4 people
Ingredients:75ml mustard oil /rapeseed oil½ tsp fenugreek seeds3 bay leaves½ teaspoon crushed cloves /cardamom300g sliced white onion600g chicken fillets (cut into big cubes)½ tsp ground turmeric1 tbsp ginger and garlic puree1tbsp ground cumin1tbsp ground coriander1 tsp ground chili150g chopped plum tomato150ml waterSalt to taste1tbsp chopped coriander1tbsp spring onion
Method:
· Heat oil in a wide, heavy base pan with fenugreek seeds; cook it until it turns dark brown.
· Add sliced onion, cloves, cardamom, bay leaves, ginger and garlic paste to· the pan.
· Fry it by stir it time to time un
· Til it slightly brown. Be careful not to burn the onions.
· Add cubed chicken fillets and turmeric and fry them for 5 minutes.
· Add chili, cumin, coriander,
· salt, chopped tomato, half of chopped coriander and spring onion. Mix it well.
· Pour hot water into the pan and cover with lid. Cook for another 10 minutes.
· Finally sprinkle with rest of the coriander and spring onion to the curry.
· Check the seasoning and serve with steamed rice
Beef LasagneIngredientsOlive oil300g beef mince1 onion1 small bell pepper2 cloves garlic crushed1 beef stock pot2tsps basil, 2tsps oregano and 1 tsp paprikaSalt and pepper1tbsp Worcestershire sauce1tbsp balsamic vinegarCarton PassataPack of fresh lasagne sheets
For white sauce;30g butter30g flour1 mozzarella ball100ml of milkSalt and pepper
Method:
Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees. Fry the mince in a pan and when cooked place on a plate.Then put the olive oil, chopped onion and garlic into the pan. When the onion has softened add the chopped pepper. Wait two minutes and add the spices, salt and pepper. Then Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar and stock pot. Add mince back in. Then slowly add the passata and stir in. Let cook for 10 mins on low heat.
For the white sauce; In a separate saucepan melt the butter and add in the flour to make a roux. Then add the milk gradually, keep whisking. Then break up the mozarella and stir it in until the sauce is smooth.
Then place lasagne sheets in dish, layer with mince mix, white sauce and then another lasagne sheet layer and so on. Cover with tin foil and cook in the oven with tin foil on for 25 minutes, remove tin foil, sprinkle grated parmesan on top and then back in the oven for 5 minutes. You can eat straight away or it will keep for 48 hours in the fridge and then re-heated. Enjoy with garlic bread or salad.
Serves 4
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MOTORING LIFE WITH
Despite challenging conditions, Audi delivered 1,845,550 cars worldwide in 2019, an increase of 1.8 percent on 2018. A constant best-seller for Audi is the A4 Compact Executive Saloon, and a new A4 has recently been launched by the premium-brand German car manufacturer. The new Audi A4 Saloon stands for sportiness, emotion and prestige. By focusing on the dynamic quattro elements and harmonious proportions, these attributes become visible all around. At the rear, a continuous chrome strip connects the LED lights to each other, highlighting the horizontal design. The stepped diffuser surface with the integrated trapezoidal end pipes creates a sporty finish. In the side view, the sports lines of the Audi A4 Saloon continue with wide fenders and distinctive side sills. At the front, the deep and wide single-frame grille, the bumper and the accented wide air intakes form a powerful unit. Sporty Character; Thanks to a new language of design and an almost completely new body, the sporty character of the Audi A4 saloon comes into play more than ever. It appears dynamic and powerful, while attractive and aesthetic at the same time. A high-quality and functionally designed interior, innovative technologies in the fields of digitisation,
infotainment and driver assistance systems, and powerful engines round off the overall package. New standard features such as 3 zone climate control, front & rear parking sensors, reversing camera, and heated front seats makes the new Audi A4 Saloon a leader in its class. Another visual feature of the Audi A4 Saloon is its progressive lighting design. The standard equipment includes headlights with LED technology. These ensure daylight-quality illumination immediately after switching on. Optionally, you can opt for the Matrix LED headlights with dynamic lighting and dynamic turn signals. Matrix LED technology combines a camera system with LED light sources and precise optics. This allows the system to selectively shield oncoming vehicles while leaving other areas of the road brightly lit. When you unlock or lock the vehicle, the front and rear Matrix LED headlights give an impressive light show. Class-Leading Interior Quality; The stylish interior of the Audi A4 Saloon is where you will find a generous amount of head, leg and elbow room, and an arrangement of the interior elements which is designed to maximise brightness and space. The continuous air-jet band emphasises the width of the vehicle, while a chrome application strip
The New Audi A4 Saloon – An Intense Progression
above it creates a high-quality accent. A large compartment in the centre console offers a practical storage space, while the standard interior lighting package creates a feel-good atmosphere on every journey. Class-leading interior quality ensures that the new A4 feels as though it is built to last for generations – a well known Audi trademark. Engine, Transmission & Trim Options; Engine options in the new Audi A4 consist of a petrol-powered unit (2.0 TFSI) with a choice of 150bhp or 190bhp, while diesel-powered (2.0 TDI) engines produce 136bhp, 163bhp or 190bhp. The latter variant features quattro all-wheel drive ensuring optimum traction and driving dynamics. Some of these engine variants feature a 12 volt mild hybrid system with a belt-starter generator and a Li-ion battery. This technology allows, for example, a shutdown of the engine while driving, which reduces fuel consumption. A six-speed manual transmission is only available in 150bhp TFSI guise, with all other engine options coming as standard with Audi’s terrific S-Tronic (7-speed automatic) transmission for pure driving pleasure. There are two trim levels in the new A4 – SE, and S Line, with both specifications coming with such standard features as front & rear seats in
leather, heated front seats, 3-zone deluxe automatic climate control, front & rear parking sensors, rear view camera, Audi drive select, cruise control with speed limiter, Audi Smartphone Interface, LED interior lighting package, electric folding exterior mirrors (heated and auto dimming), along with a suite of advanced safety features. Test Car; My test car was a new Audi A4 35TDI S-Tronic (163bhp) S Line Saloon, which was finished in stunning Navarra Blue metallic paint for maximum visual impact. Key S Line features include 19” Audi Sport alloy wheels. S line front & rear bumpers, headlining in black cloth, decorative inserts in matte brushed aluminium, black gloss look (area surrounding gear knob), scuff plates with aluminium inserts in front (illuminated, with “S” logo), leather / alcantara sports seats with S embossing,
and sports suspension. Producing 163bhp and a healthy 380Nm of torque, the A4 35TDI can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 8.5-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 223km/h. The smooth-revving TDI engine is capable of consuming as little as 5.1-litres of diesel for every 100km driven on a combined driving cycle, while annual road tax is just €190.On the road, the new A4 drives with excellent poise and precision, with a strong suspension set-up ensuring that road surface imperfections are absorbed very well indeed. The car remains composed through corners, while admirable driving dynamics and strong brakes provide terrific driver enjoyment. Audi’s slick-shifting 7-speed S-Tronic transmission is a pleasure to use, and it is a perfect match to the serene refinement offered by the new A4. Boot space in the new Audi A4 is very similar in size to its Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3-Series
rivals with 480-litres available, but a large opening in the A4 enables greater ease of access than its rivals can offer. When the rear seats are folded, the available boot space on offer increases to an impressive 965-litres. Verdict & Pricing; Overall, the new Audi A4 Saloon is a genuinely impressive compact executive car in every area, while drivers looking for even greater practicality may want to consider Audi’s new A4 Avant (estate) bodystyle. Pricing for the new Audi A4 Saloon starts at €40,570 (35TFSI). As proof of the confidence Audi have in the quality of their product range, they offer a three-year/100,000km manufacturer’s warranty, three-year paint warranty, and a 12-year body protection warranty. The paintwork on every new Audi is covered against manufacturing defects for a period of three years.
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